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. 10, ISSUE 515 August 25, 2007 $1.00 GREECE: 1.75 EURO Karamanlis Christodoulos in Good Opting for Pre-Op Condition for Elections in Liver Transplant Surgery Three Weeks By Theodore Kalmoukos More examinations on the ailing Special to The National Herald Greek prelate are expected to con- tinue in the coming days, in keeping Prime Minister Sets BOSTON, Mass. – Doctors at the with standard procedures at Ameri- University of Miami/Jackson can hospitals prior to even the most September 16 Election Memorial Medical Center have minor operations. found Archbishop Christodoulos of Christodoulos, 68, arrived at Mi- Date, 6 Months Early Athens & All Greece in very good ami International Airport in Florida condition, based on extensive test- at 2:30 PM last Saturday afternoon, By Nicholas Paphitis ing the Archbishop has undergone, August 18, aboard the Prime Minis- Associated Press so far. ter Costas Karamanlis’ government Sources told The National Her- jet, as Orthodox faithful in Greece ATHENS (AP) – Prime Minister ald that the much-revered head of and abroad anxiously await and Costas Karamanlis called for elec- the Church of Greece underwent pray for the successful treatment of tions on September 16, asking vot- highly specialized examinations on his condition. ers for a fresh mandate for reform his heart and liver, which indicate Internationally renowned Greek six months before his conservative that he is in very good pre-opera- American surgeon Andreas Tzakis government's four-year term was tional condition which, in turn, will perform the liver transplant the scheduled to end. means that his body can accept a Archbishop needs to ensure his re- Costas Karamanlis made the an- liver transplant at any moment at covery. Dr. Tzakis, a pioneering nouncement during a televised ad- this time. physician and researcher in the field dress last Friday, August 17, after a This development further boost- who performs some 200 transplants meeting with Hellenic Republic ed the Archbishop’s optimism and each year, has saved thousands of President Karolos Papoulias, who morale, sources said, because test lives, including several Greek Amer- approved his request for the Hel- results involved the most crucial icans. lenic Parliament to be dissolved. part of pre-operational testing, Archbishop Christodoulos came The prime minister said he checking to see if his body would be from Greece carrying an amulet, a wanted to reform the economy, ed- in a strong enough to accept a trans- small cross made from a piece of the ucation and the judiciary. plantation of a vital organ. actual Cross upon which Christ was "This requires a strong parlia- AP/PETROS GIANNAKOURIS Immediately after the positive crucified. The amulet was given to mentary majority. I visited the pres- Back in action on his own turf results from tests, Christodoulos the Archbishop personally by Mr. ident and handed him a letter, in was officially placed on the trans- Karamanlis, who visited which I request the dissolution of Vasilis Spanoulis of Greece tries to score as Matteo Soragna, left, and Massimo Bulleri of Italy try to stop plant waiting list, which means that Christodoulos at his home last Fri- Parliament and the holding of elec- him during the Acropolis Basketball Tournament in Athens’ Olympic Stadium this past Tuesday, August 21. a new liver may be found for him at day, August 17, and wished him “a tions on September 16. Above all, The Houston Rockets traded Spanoulis, who had limited NBA action, to the San Antonio Spurs this past Ju- any time from any part of the Unit- safe trip and healthy return.” we have a duty to advance at a ly. The Spurs released him from his contract so he could play for Pan-Atheniakos, which is reportedly of- ed States, since there is a nation- The Archbishop and his en- steadier pace and seek progress for fering him a multi-million-dollar contract. wide network in place to locate all on the basis of fiscal stability," transplantable organs. Continued on page 5 Karamanlis said. "I firmly believe the citizenry de- sires continuation of the changes and reforms, with new momentum and new speed," he told the last Acoustics Can Prevent Bridge Collapses Cabinet meeting of his govern- ment, adding that it was a national By Dimitri Soultogiannis evolve in myriad research labs and “It’s like going to the doctor,” Dr. necessity, and his obligation, to Special to the National Herald universities. Vahaviolos said in an effort to ex- seek a renewal of the people's man- Several vendors – to include the plain what his company does in lay- date. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Even as in- Physical Acoustics Corporation in man’s terms. Opinion polls have shown a vestigators continue to work to re- Princeton, New Jersey and Pure “When you are in pain and you drop in the Karamanlis' conserva- cover victims and pinpoint the Technologies LTD in Calgary, Alber- go to the doctor, the first thing any tive New Democracy party's lead cause of this month’s catastrophic ta – already offer intricate portable doctor will do is examine the pa- over the Pan-Hellenic Socialist collapse of the Interstate 35W systems using sensors which can tient and locate the source of pain; Movement (PASOK), the socialist bridge over the Mississippi River in “hear” cracking in bridge cables or then he tries to cure it. And that’s main opposition. The lead has Minneapolis, one subject getting steel components so that engineers what we do at Mistras Group when ranged from 0.4 to one percentage more immediate attention is the can better assess structural condi- it comes to examining the condi- point in June – down from four per- availability of systems which can tions. tion of any bridge in the country,” centage points just after the 2004 help highway officials better judge Founder & Chairman/CEO of he said. elections, and about two points the health of the nation's bridges. PAC and the MISTRAS Group Sote- Since most of the bridges in the earlier this year. Sensor technology to monitor rios Vahaviolos told the National Unites States are aging, Dr. Vahavi- Critics have attributed the de- the structural integrity – steel and Herald that his company has made olos said, the demand for nonde- cline to a bond-trading scandal and concrete health – of highway major strides toward the comple- structive testing (NDT) and inspec- public anger over the Government's bridges already exists, and has tion of its digital wireless-sensor tion goes up. “The human eye is AP/PETROS GIANNAKOURIS response to a wave of forest fires been in use in many parts of the technology system which assists simply not enough anymore. We Archbishop Christodoulos of Athens & All Greece waves from an aircraft this summer. country, while new and improved Bridge Operators in preventing prior to departing for the U.S. from Elefsis military airport, southwest of Analysts said a second term monitoring systems continue to bridge failures. Continued on page 2 Athens last Saturday, August 18. He is in Miami for a liver transplant. would allow the Government to re- form the pension system; engage in more privatization; and improve the country's competitiveness. Culture Minister George Voul- garakis said drawn-out speculation Christos Gage Controls the Life of Superheroes Rep. Bilirakis on when elections would be held had "harmed the country and the By Mark Frangos tures of Spider Man, Batman, the the very beginning and never were labeled a comic writer, a TV Makes Good economy." Special to the National Herald Incredible Hulk and the X-Men, stopped. I still write screenplays, writer or a movie writer, and it was The conservatives are expected among others. Chris Gage has but comics are very close to my rare to do other things. But now NEW YORK – A great number of quickly risen up the ranks as one of heart. I didn’t want to be somebody you see people going back and On Promise, Continued on page 5 Hellenes around the world have the go to writers for both Marvel who came in from Hollywood and forth. As a creative person, this Nicholas Gage’s books somewhere and DC Comics. did a miniseries or two, but I want- works out best because you can on their bookshelf. It stands to rea- He didn’t start off writing ed to be a regular comic book come up with an idea and decide if Shaves Head son, considering that at on point, comics. Along with his wife Ruth, writer.” it’s better as a movie, TV show, “Eleni” was the second bestselling who he met in film school and mar- His first comic book was a series comic, novel or something else.” WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congress- book in Greece after the Bible. ried in 2001, Christos also wrote about a minor character for DC Christos and his two sisters man Gus Bilirakis (R-Florida) kept Community’s What many Greek Americans may many screenplays, including for the Comics named Deadshot. Since spent their early years in Neo Psy- his promise to shave his head for not know is that many of their chil- television shows, “Law & Order: then, Christos has written for all his chico, just outside Athens, where the American Cancer Society’s Reaction to the dren are reading the work of Mr. SVU” and “Numbers” and a movie, favorite characters. He continues to the family lived from 1977 to 1982. Southeast Hillsborough Unit last Gage’s son every month. “The Breed.” But the allure of writ- write the occasional screenplay, but He would walk to a neighborhood Friday evening, August 17, at the That’s because Christos Gage is ing comics was too much to ignore. loves the creative and budgetary Alfa-Beta supermarket right Florida Center & Botanical Gardens Early Elections writing some of the world’s most “Comics are my first love,” he freedom of comic books. around the corner where they located at the Florida State Fair- popular comic books on a monthly said. “I learned to read when I was “The way I look at it, you’re just grounds. basis. He has written the adven- three. I was reading comics from a writer,” he said. “In the past, you Continued on page 3 “Inspired by two of our board By Dimitri Soultogiannis members last year, Gus promised to Special to the National Herald shave his head if we met our fundraising stretch goal during the WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Greek 2006-2007 fiscal year, and we did,” American community in the greater said ACS Southeast Hillsborough Washington area has mixed feel- Fugitive Found Unit Board Chairman Mike Wick. ings about the upcoming Greek na- “We’re thrilled because when Gus tional elections on September 16. shaves his head and goes to his of- Some Greek Americans were sur- And Arrested fice in D.C., he will lead the way prised with Greek Prime Minister and bring more awareness to the Costas Karamanlis’ decision to re- U.S. Congress.” quest early parliamentary elections At 5-Star Hotel Rep. Bilirakis agreed: “It’s im- last week. Others said it was just a portant that we all continue to raise matter time. And still others seem ATHENS (AP) – The search for a awareness and express our support to think it will be an interesting convicted swindler ended earlier for cancer research and inform the race. this week on the Greek island of public about what we know about “I am not surprised by Karaman- Crete, where he was vacationing this terrible disease,” he said. “I’m lis’ decision in the least,” Alexander with his family. happy to play a small part in this ef- Psychogios of Baltimore told the Angelo Haligiannis, the fugitive fort by fulfilling my promise to National Herald. “A series of (al- former hedge-fund president shave my head after this wonderful leged) scandals and economic re- sought in the U.S. for $27 million group successfully met their forms have dented his govern- fraud, was arrested in Crete on an fundraising challenge. Their work ment’s popularity ratings, so now international warrant this past contributes to the positive work the it’s the time for him to request elec- Monday, August 20, after a tip-off American Cancer Society is doing tions. If he has any chance to regain from a man claiming to have been throughout the United States.” momentum, this is it.” one of his victims. The Congressman headed Aphrodite Theoharakis of Angelo Haligiannis, former straight to Florida for the event up- Bethesda, Maryland said Karaman- president of the Sterling Watters on his return from a trip to the Mid- lis is determined to continue with LLP hedge fund, was arrested at his dle East. He sat atop a professional economic and social reforms which hotel – a new five-star beachfront barber’s chair, and had his head have won praise from the European resort in Iraklion called Amirandes shaved by a local barber. Several – after he showed Greek identifica- members of his staff both here and Continued on page 3 tion indicating he was Angelo Hali- in and Florida also joined the effort giannis, Hellenic Police said. by shaving their heads. To subscribe call: 718.784.5255 A clerk at the hotel said a villa One of Rep. Bilirakis’ staff mem- e-mail: was registered to Angelo Haligian- bers, Legislative Director Jerry [email protected] nis. An English-speaking woman at White of New Port Richey, said he AP/PETROS GIANNAKOURIS the villa said her name was "Liz," viewed the effort as an opportunity Relentless burning assault and then hung up when learning to be in solidarity with his own fa- the caller was a reporter. ther’s struggle with prostate cancer. A home burns in the Nea Penteli area of Mount Penteli, on the northern outskirts of Athens last Thursday, Au- A Hersonissos police spokesman Diagnosed several months ago, his *082507* gust 16. More than 100 firefighters, aided by 13 water-dropping airplanes and helicopters, strove to contain a major forest blaze which destroyed at least ten homes and damaged dozens more. See story on page 5. Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2 2 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007 Acoustics Can Prevent Future Bridge Catastrophes GOINGS ON... ■ THROUGH AUGUST vites the community to “A Night in Continued from page 1 authorities 24 hours a day, he ATHENS – The Synthesis Media the Kouzina,” a tasting event of sig- added. Company cordially invites the com- nature dishes from some of the need new technologies to guide us MISTRAS is headquartered in munity to “The Apology,” a new most popular and famous chefs in and warn us by showing us signs Princeton Junction, New Jersey, play based on Plato’s original dia- Chicago on Thursday, September that could indicate there is some- employing more than 1,100 quali- logue and translated into English, 13, at the Chicago Cultural Center’s thing wrong,” he said. fied employees from over a dozen re-enacting Socrates’ defense in the Preston Bradley Hall (78 East “All the information we collect different countries, with 30 offices Court of Athens before he took Washington Street). Times: 6:00 when our NDT testing is complete, within the continental United hemlock, for two performances dai- pm to 9:00 pm. The Event is being we forward to the authorities and States, “in order to be close to our ly in July and August in Athens held in conjunction with the bridge operators. That way, they customers,” Dr. Vahaviolos pointed (Scholiou 8, Plaka, entrance from Hellenic Museum’s current exhibit can plan ahead for maintenance, out. Adrianou 122). Starring Emmy “Nourishing Culture” which focuses repair, rehabilitation or even the re- Dr. Vahaviolos’ career started in award winner Yannis Simonides; di- on the role food played in the life of placement of a bridge,” he added. August of 1970, experimenting rected by Broadway veteran Loukas Greek immigrants and in the evolu- There are several factors which with acoustics emission first, and Skipitaris; costumes by Oscar and tion of the Greek American commu- can lead to degradation and deteri- then with high frequency ultrason- Tony winner Theoni Vahliotes- nity in Chicago. oration of a bridge, according to Dr. ics. From 1970 to 1978, he served Aldredge; and percussive support The event is sponsored by Diamond Vahaviolos: increased traffic on our AT&T in various technical and ad- by Caryn Heilman; fresh translation Importers, who will host a wine sta- nation’s bridges, coupled with cor- ministrative capacities at the Bell by Mr. Simonides & Mr. Skipitaris. tion, which will feature a wide array rosive environments, are the lead- Telephone Laboratories Engineer- Performances begin at 8:30 PM and of Greek wines for sampling. The ing causes of deterioration for steel ing Research Center, all dealing 10:30 PM daily. Duration is approx- popular website Daily Frappe will bridges. For concrete bridges, he with advanced NDT. imately 80 minutes. Tickets are 10, host a frappe coffee station at the said, corrosion of reinforcement Starting as a research scientist, 12 or 15 euro. For more information event while those opting for harder due to chloride ingress; vehicle im- he was eventually promoted de- contact Eirini Polydorou in Athens: tastes can sample a drink from the pact; concrete cracking and fatigue partment head responsible for the 011-30-694-907-9175 or 011-30- booth hosted by Greek spirit maker are the major factors. work of more than 50 doctoral re- 210-360-0410. Metaxa. Grecian Delight Foods is al- Online monitoring and sensor cipients. His company holds more so a sponsor of the event. fusion can cover all possible failure than 15 U.S. and foreign patents re- ■ AUGUST 25-26 Featured Chefs for the night in- mechanisms including unpre- lating to signal processing of NDT PORT JEFFERSON, N.Y. – The clude: George Alpgiannis of Kappy’s dictable deterioration, he said. “We and preventive maintenance solu- Greek Orthodox Church of the Restaurant, Jimmy Bannos of have to be pro-active.” tions. Over the years, he has writ- Assumption cordially invites the Heaven on Seven, John Boudouvas Since 1972, he said, the year ten more than 85 reviewed techni- community to its Greek Festival of Frasca, Peter Liaras of La Briola PAC was founded, the company has cal papers. The technology he in- from August 25-26 at the church Bakery, Mary Mastricola of La Petite mastered the method of applying vented for AT&T found broad use in (430 Sheep Pasture Road). Festival Folie, Michael & Carrie Nahabedia sound technology called acoustics semiconductor manufacturing and Times: Saturday, 1-11 PM; Sunday, of NAHA Restaurant, Amalia emission (AE). “Now, with a quick military and space applications, 1-11 PM. Spectacular fireworks Tshilds & Jason Hammel of Lulu’s and simple method, we can hear a and he was frequently cited in Friday night. Carnival rides, live Cafe, Sean Eastwood of Isabella crack even from a distance; we can AT&T’s annual reports for his work. music and entertainment by the Estiatorio, John Gatsos of Tavern on read through the warning signs and Dr. Vahaviolos has written and Hellenic Dancers of New Jersey. Rush, and special guest chef Panos report a bridge’s life expectancy.” edited three books on acoustics Admission is $2. Free under 18. Karatassos owner and chef of Kyma Dr. Vahaviolos also discussed emission; is published in more than Free shuttle bus and the best raffle Restaurant in Atlanta, GA. George two instances in which PAC systems 100 publications; and has lectured in the Eastern area with 270 prizes Bumbaris of Prairie Grass Cafe is could have prevented accidents – if New technology such as those created by PAC and the MISTRAS nationally and internationally as a including 7 Grand Prizes. Prizes in- the chef coordinator. For more in- they were in place. Group, led by Founder & Chairman/CEO Soterios Vahaviolos, above, visiting scholar at a number of na- clude: 2007 Mercedes C280, 2007 formation, call Kyriako Mellos at “After the collapse of the I-95 may be able to prevent other catastrophic bridge collapses such as the tional academies and conferences. Jeep Wrangler, 18’ Boat Maxum, 312-655-1234. bridge in Connecticut, which col- bridge over Interstate 35W in Minneapolis. He is an elected fellow of the Insti- Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Corolla CE, lapsed about 15 years ago, people tute of Electrical & Electronic Engi- Nissan Versa and Seadoo Jetski. ■ SEPTEMBER 18 who lived in the area told the New Charles De Gaulle Airport, the air- daily sounds in a bridge structure, neers, the American Society of $100 per raffle, 1 out of every 15 NEPTUNE, N.J. – The Saint George York Times about sounds that were port manager told CNN people also including heavy rain,” Dr. Vahavio- Nondestructive Testing and the tickets is a winner. For more infor- Church community of Asbury Park, heard for months, but of course, heard warning sounds, even up to a los said, noting that PAC has suc- Acoustics Emission Working Group. mation or how to purchase a raffle New Jersey will host its 8th Annual they were not classified as warning couple of years before the ceiling cessfully completed the monitoring He is also an elected member of the ticket, call the church at 631-473- Golf Tournament & Awards sounds simply because it’s hard for collapse which resulted in six of 20 American bridges. New York Academy of Science, the 0894. Banquet on Tuesday, September 18, the human ear to make a distinc- deaths. The new systems also protect Sigma Chi Scientific Society and at the Jumping Brook Country Club tion,” he said. “In both these instances, our sys- bridges from being vandalized, as the American Society of Testing & ■ AUGUST 25 in Neptune (Jumping Brook Road). Similarly, he explained, after the tems could have differentiated well as from potential terrorist ac- Materials, and a senior member of BALTIMORE –The Odyssey Greek Registration, 11:30 AM. Shot Gun collapse of a terminal at Paris’ ‘crack sounds’ from other normal tivities, because signals are sent to the Instrument Society of America. Orchestra cordially invites the com- start, 1:30 PM. Buffet luncheon, on- munity to the “Post Panayia Elliniko course refreshments, cocktail hour, Glendi” on the Black Eye Susan ship awards reception and buffet dinner: on Saturday, August 25 from 10 PM $225 per golfer. All proceeds to sup- to 2 AM. Ship sails at 11:30 PM. port the Saint George Church Admission is $55 in advance; $60 at Building Fund. For more informa- Bilirakis Already in the the door. Includes appetizers and tion or to sponsor the event, call cash bar. For more information or 732-229-8274. tickets call Vassilios Kanaris 410- Democratic Cross Hairs 321-1857 or 410-419-2898. ■ SEPTEMBER 21-22 SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – His By Billy House around here." ■ AUGUST 25-26 Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos And William March Dicks, 54, is a lawyer and former HERSONISSOS, CRETE – The Crete and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis Tampa Tribune Plant City commissioner who was Golf Club, the Ministry of Foreign of San Francisco cordially invite the the city's commissioner-mayor for Affairs and the Hellenic Golf community to a golf tournament in WASHINGTON, D.C. – Eight three nonconsecutive years from Federation cordially invites the memory of the late Metropolitan months into Congressman Gus Bili- 1999 through 2006. community to its “Third Annual Anthony on September 21-22 at rakis' (R-Florida) congressional ca- He met in Washington with Rep. International Diaspora Golf Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm reer, two area Democrats are eye- Chris Van Hollen (D-Maryland), Tournament,” a tournament open Desert (38995 Desert Willow ing runs for his House seat in 2008. chairman of the Democratic Con- to golfers of Greek descent on Drive). Weekend events begin on Former Plant City Mayor John gressional Campaign Committee, August 25-26. Already established Friday, September 21, with an Dicks traveled to the nation's capi- which heads up national party ef- as an event that attracts many evening pairing reception and silent tal two weeks ago to meet with na- forts to elect Democrats to the Greek golfers from all over the auction, and continue on Saturday, tional party officials about his po- House. globe. There is no participation fee. September 22, with the Golf tential bid. He said he would make Dicks called the visit "more of a Golfers wishing to take part should Tournament, followed by an his decision by about Labor Day. fact-finding mission" and said no contact Harry Zervos or Vasso evening Tournament Awards Bilirakis already has one Demo- commitments were made by Van Karamanoli at the Crete Golf Club Dinner-Dance. Foursomes, individ- cratic opponent, William D. "Bill" Hollen in terms of funding or sup- at +30210-28970-26000 or email ual golfers and a variety of sponsor- Mitchell, a Tampa employment port from the DCCC, and Dicks at [email protected]. For more in- ships are still available. Tournament lawyer and Navy veteran. He also made no such request. But he said formation, visit the Crete Golf Club registration deadline is September filed to run for the seat in 2006, but Van Hollen was "very supportive on the web at www.crete-golf.gr. 1. Individual golf packages are only withdrew in deference to Phyllis and encouraging." $250 per person, and include green Busansky, defeated by Bilirakis last Rather than running against ■ AUGUST 31 – SEPTEMBER 3 and cart fees, registration gift bag, November. Bilirakis, he is looking at it more as DOVER, N.H. – Annunciation Greek lunch and the dinner-dance. Hole Bilirakis spokesman John an opportunity to represent the Orthodox Church cordially invites Sponsors are $1,000 and include Tomaszewski said, "We're not going people of this area, he said. the community to “Greek Festival golf for two, tickets for golfers and to comment on any alleged or ru- "I think it is a seat that works 2007,” from August 31 – September guests to the dinner-dance, plus a mored opponents at this time." well for a conservative-minded De- 1 at the Hellenic Center in Dover personalized tee sign. Special Asked whether Bilirakis has de- mocrat," he said. (Longhill Road). Come and enjoy events and activities are also being cided to run for a second term, The DCCC's Southern regional homemade Greek food in the New planned for spouses and guests dur- Tomaszewski said, "I've heard noth- spokeswoman, Kyra Jennings, said, Hampshire seacoast area. The ing the tournament. A substantial ing to the contrary." "We are excited that he is consider- Greek Festival features Greek spe- portion of the proceeds from this For nearly a quarter-century, the ing a possible challenge against Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-Florida) had his head shaved for the Amer- cialties, pastries, loukoumades and event will benefit all Metropolis Bilirakis name has dominated what Gus Bilirakis." ican Cancer Society last Friday, August 17. Bilirakis promised to shave his Greek coffee; a marketplace; the ministries, including the Family now is Florida's 9th Congressional Mitchell, 60, who lives in Car- head if the unit met its fundraising goal for the 2006-07 fiscal year. Boston Lykeion; the Eleftheria Wellness Center. The remaining District. From 1983 until last year, rollwood, ran for a state House seat Dance Troupe dancing to the music proceeds will go to the Desert the area had been represented by as a Republican in 2002, losing in of Ellas (Friday evening) and Ta Cancer Foundation and Saint Michael Bilirakis, the current con- the primary to Florida State Rep. Paidia (Saturday evening), with the George Church in Palm Desert. For gressman's father. Kevin Ambler. music of DJ Meleti all day Saturday. more information, contact the Hillsborough County Democrat- He changed parties two years Bilirakis Keeps Promise to Admission is free. For more infor- church at 760-568-9901. ic Party Chairman Mike Suarez said later, he said, largely because of mation, call 603-742-7667. both Mitchell and Dicks should be disillusionment with the conduct of ■ OCTOBER 5-11 considered serious candidates to the war in Iraq. American Cancer Society ORANGE, Conn. – Saint Barbara NEW YORK – The National unseat Bilirakis. "I'm one of these people who be- Greek Orthodox Church cordially Philoptochos Society cordially in- "There is a school of thought lieves the Republican Party has Continued from page 1 portance of cancer research and invites the community to its 27th vites the community to the that Bilirakis is vulnerable this year moved away from where it used to show support for the millions of annual Odyssey: A Greek Festival Philoptochos Pilgrimage to because of the troubles of George be," he said. "I'm very comfortable father has undergone aggressive people who are courageously fight- on Friday-Monday, August 31 – Constantinople, a historic pilgrim- Bush, despite the advantages of in- with the Democratic Party." radiation treatments, and is cur- ing this disease, and who desper- September 3 at the church (480 age featuring a private audience cumbency and a well-known Mitchell had $137,485 in his rently awaiting further tests. ately need to find better treatments Racebrook Road). It is one of with His All Holiness Ecumenical name," he said. campaign bank account at the end “I was really touched when Con- and, hopefully one day, a cure for Connecticut’s largest Greek festi- Patriarch Bartholomew and visits to GOLD STANDARD of June, according to his most re- gressman Bilirakis told me he was it.” vals, held on 13 country acres in Hagia Sophia, Baloukli Monastery, Tony DiMatteo, Republican Par- cent fundraising report, which willing to shave his head because Orange. Featuring homemade the Church of Chora and other sa- ty chairman in Pinellas County, dif- showed that money included a he believes so strongly in this For more information, or to Greek cuisine, pastry and imports; cred sites. The pilgrimage is open to fered. "It will be hard to unseat $100,000 loan from himself. cause,” Mr. White said. make a donation to the American live music with dance performances all Philoptochos members (and somebody with his integrity and “It seemed to me that shaving Cancer Society, call 800-227- by the Odyssey dancers; a giant raf- their spouses) and will include an work ethic," DiMatteo said. "The The Tampa Tribune published my head is a small price to pay to 2345, or visit the web at fle; tours and lectures of the church; optional visit to Cappadocia on Bilirakis name is the gold standard the above on August 17. help raise awareness about the im- www.cancer.org. and much more. For more informa- Thursday, October 11-14. There is tion, call 203-795-1347. limited availability, and it is on a first-come, first-serve basis. For SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The more information, contact the Annunciation Church cordially in- National Philoptochos office at 212- vites the community to its 44th 744-4390. Convicted Swindler Apprehended in Crete Annual Festival on Friday-Sunday, August 31 – September 2, at the NOTE TO OUR READERS Continued from page 1 York court in September 2005, but materials and account statements Haligiannis was freed the day Sacramento Community Center This calendar of events section is a failed to appear for his sentencing indicating it held $180 million in after he was captured. Prosecutor (1400 J Street). Come enjoy new complimentary service to the said Haligiannis, 35, was detained in January 2006. assets when, in fact, it had less than Zacharias Kokkinakis, agreed to re- menu items, live music and plenty Greek American community. All after another vacationer recog- He was under house arrest at his $170,000. lease him pending a court session of happy people on Labor Day parishes, organizations and insti- nized him and contacted authori- parent's home in Long Island, mon- The ruling followed a civil law- next week, when a panel of three weekend. For more information, tutions are encouraged to e-mail ties. itored by an electronic bracelet, but suit by the U.S. Securities & Ex- judges will rule on the U.S. extradi- call 916-443-2033. their information 3-4 weeks ahead "The suspect was arrested this the day before his sentencing, he change Commission, which ac- tion request made through Inter- of time, and no later than Monday afternoon on a U.S. warrant for borrowed his father's Jeep, saying cused Haligiannis of fraudulently pol. ■ SEPTEMBER 13 of the week before the event, to fraud, and is being held," said Irak- he had to meet his lawyer. raising tens of millions from in- "We appreciate the assistance of CHICAGO – The Hellenic Museum [email protected] lion Police Chief Pantelis Gian- He didn't come home, and the vestors. the Greek authorities in making and Cultural Center cordially in- om. nakopoulos. "We detained him, and vehicle was later found abandoned The U.S. Justice Department this arrest, and we do hope to re- Interpol confirmed that he was in Manhattan. He faced as many as and SEC maintain he raised the turn Haligiannis to New York (to wanted," he told the Associated 15 years in prison. His wife Liz told money by misrepresenting perfor- face formal sentencing)," Carol Press. investigators that he was likely in mance figures through a classic Kalin, press attaché at the U.S. Em- book Ø worm. - noun The deputy U.S. marshal in Greece, but that she didn't know Ponzi scheme. bassy in Athens, on Tuesday. Any 1. One who spends much time reading or studying. charge of the case, Manny Puri, got where. This past January, the SEC won extradition will have to follow a de- 2. Any of various insects, especially booklice and silverfish, that a tip that Haligiannis was on a The court found that Sterling a summary judgment against the termination of Haligiannis' citizen- infest books and feed on the paste in the bindings. beach in Crete with his wife and Watters Group and Haligiannis sys- hedge fund in federal court in the ship. Source: The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition daughter. The tipster snapped a tematically defrauded investors by Southern District of New York. The photo of the family on a camera misrepresenting the fund's perfor- court found the fund liable for dis- The above incorporates infor- The National Herald Bookstore phone and e-mailed it to Puri. mance since 1996. gorgement of $15.6 million, plus mation from a report published (718) 784-5255 Haligiannis pleaded guilty to The summary judgment found interest, and a civil penalty of $15 by the Wall Street Journal on Au- [email protected] criminal fraud charges in a New that the fund distributed marketing million. gust 21. THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007 COMMUNITY 3 Greek Bob Hope Goes Shark Fishing Off Staten Island in the Summer Time

By Stavros Marmarinos bring a smile to their faces. meant the doctor’s role I was cast Special to The National Herald “I started becoming famous in a for, so I thanked him. But Mr. manner quite different than most,” Dalianides told me, ‘No, that’s not NEW YORK – Yannis Voyatzis, the Mr. Voyatzis recalled. “In other what I mean. I have been looking to famous Greek comedian who has words, the people came to know pair someone up with (Greek lead- starred in Greek theater and films, and love me through the radio, and ing lady) Rena Vlahopoulou for a tickling the funny bone of audiences not from cinema and television. My long time, and I haven’t been able for years, went shark hunting in the character, Mikés, had a lot of idio- to. You are the best.’ ” waters of Staten Island and New Jer- syncrasies, and all of Greece wanted Mr. Voyatzis continues his long- sey this summer. to hear him. At the time, that there time working relationship with the Best known for his film character was no television, only radio. My National Theater Company of “Lalakis” and radio personality show came on at quarter to six, Greece until today. “Mikés,” from his radio program “To three times a week, and everyone The memorable actor is also a fa- Imerologio Enos Thyrorou (Diaries used to wait for it.” miliar face to the Greek American of a Doorman),” Mr. Voyatzis spent a Mr. Voyatzis also appeared on community, which he loves, respects large chunk of the summer with his relatives on Staten Island, as he does every year. They spend most of their time fishing, which has been Mr. Voyatzis’ favorite pastime since childhood. As he prepared to head back to Athens, he had a lot to tell his friends back in Greece about his annual shark hunt. “Can you imagine taking part in a fishing competition, not catching the fish that the rules call for, and still getting a prize,” he told The Na- tional Herald with a laugh. Mr. Voy- atzis and company participated in an amateur fishing competition for residents of Staten Island and New Jersey on his brother in-law’s boat, and won third prize. Mr. Voyatzis was born in Aitoliko in the Peloponnese in 1926. His fa- ther was a judge. He studied drama with the National Theater Company of Greece, and also studied at Greece’s top industrial school. In the end, however, the theater won his heart. He got his first acting role with famous Greek director Charles Koun’s theater company, Theatro Technis, in a rendition of Ibsen’s, “The Wild Duck.” Before he com- EUROKINISSI pleted his drama studies, he played Yannis Voyatzis in Shakespeare’s, “Merchant of Venice” in Kallithea, along with the television programs, “I Geitonia and has admired for many years Dionysios Pagoulatos. Mas (Our Neighborhood)” and “O now. Mr. Voyatzis made his film debut Oneiroparmenos (The Day Dream- “The Greeks of the Diaspora in 1957, in the movie, “Laterna, er).” He has played in more than stand out,” he said. “They achieve Ftocheia kai Filotimo (Music Box, 100 shows, including TV sitcoms. progress wherever they go, and in Poverty and Dignity),” alongside Some of his best know movies are “I whatever they do. I want to tell Greek stars Jenny Karezis and Gynaika Mou Trelathike (My Wife them to always stay close to one an- Alekos Alexandrakis, playing the Has Gone Mad),” “Despoinis other, and to stay on good terms. role of a doctor. Diefthintis (Miss Supervisor),” “Ena They have to keep our Greek lan- Mr. Voyatzis has worked with Koritsi yia Dyo (One Girl for Two),” guage alive, and pass it onto their many theater companies, and “To Paidi tis Mamas (Mama’s Boy),” children. Let’s not forget that all the served as company leader on many and others. languages of Europe are rooted in occasions. Among others, his seven- Mr. Voyatzis recalled working Greek and Latin. Today, we know year stint with Theatro Mousouri with director Yannis Dalianides on that the timeless Greek language stands out in his long and distin- “One Girl for Two,” which was pro- has lent its words to science and the TOP: Christos Gage, right, stands next to comic book legend Stan Lee, founder of Marvel Comics. Mr. Gage guished career. The beloved come- duced by Finos Films. “Mr. Zervas, arts.” has written stories for some of the most popular comic book characters like Batman, bottom left, and the dian played alongside some of the the director, had asked me to play Mr. Voyatzis also acknowledged Hulk and Wolverine of the X-Men, bottom right. biggest names in Greek theater and one of the three doctors in the film,” the important role the Church can cinema. Mr. Voyatzis said. “The next day, I play in strengthening the bond be- His roles on radio programs like went to thank him for the role he of- tween Greek Americans and Greece, “Diaries of a Doorman” remain thor- fered me. On my way out, I sudden- and preserving Greek identity. “I can oughly ingrained in the minds of the ly heard Mr. Dalianides yell out, not wait to see you all once again in Faster than a Speeding Bullet, Christos older generation, never ceasing to ‘That’s who I wanted.’ I thought he the near future,” he said. Gage Gives Life to Comic Superheroes Continued from page 1 some people who work in artistic Christos and his wife have two fields whose parents wished they cats, Frankie and Josie. The couple would ship American comics once a had become a doctor or a lawyer, splits time between West Holly- month. which would be considered a more wood and North Carolina, and are “My father, who was not a comic secure field of employment. In my currently working on a graphic person, always used to say ‘If you house, that wasn’t the case. I knew novel together, “The Lion of Rora.” focused on your schoolwork as from the onset that because my Before they met, Christos attended much as you do on comics, you will parents wrote for a living, it was a Brown University, where he ma- really go far in life,’ ” Christos said. viable career path.” jored in American Civilization. He “The funny thing is, now it helps Christos does not take the tragic later earned a master’s degree in me to know how Spider Man got story of his grandmother lightly screenwriting at the American Film his powers a lot more than algebra (depicted in his father’s book), and Institute, where he met Ruth. does.” said he lives his life as a tribute to Christos has enjoyed consider- The family then moved to a her every day. able success writing in many differ- small town outside of Worcester, “To have that kind of story in ent fields, but his future seems to Massachusetts where the Gage your past and know that someone be tied to comics. family had emigrated. It was easier made a sacrifice like that makes you “I would like to be in comics for for Christos to follow the adven- feel like you have a responsibility,” a long time, and tell the kind of sto- tures of his favorite heroes there, he said. “I never felt like I could just ries that people enjoy,” he said. and to also choose a career path. go out and drink and do drugs and “When you’re a professional writer, “Both my parents are writers, “ ignore my schoolwork. I felt like you always wonder if you will be he said. “I think that made me people had sacrificed and died for able to sustain a career. I would aware that writing was a viable ca- me to be where I was, and I didn’t love to do this for the rest of my reer path. You hear stories from have the right to throw that away.” life.” Omogeneia Reactions Split about Elections

Continued from page 1 pushing for an election since the worse; and that the majority (65 start of the year. Time is running percent) believe that a PASOK ad- Union, but have damaged the con- out for the New Democracy Party.” ministration would pretty much do servative New Democracy govern- For Andrew Milionis, of Falls the same job. ment’s popularity at home. Church, Virginia, “It’s time for a “It’s clear that Karamanlis’ con- “He knows exactly what he’s do- change in Greece. Our brothers in servative party is asking for early ing,” Ms. Theoharakis said. “The Greece have seen their rights re- elections to strategically take ad- government, fully and responsibly, duced; their salaries reduced; and vantage of the socialist party’s asks the Greek people to decide on their expectations crushed,” and an weakness and prevent further voter the future of the country, renewing early parliamentary election in leakage over dissatisfaction that all their trust and giving a second Greece is proof that Prime Minister their pre-election promises have strong mandate for another four Karamanlis can not keep his initial supposedly not been kept,” said years. Greek elections are all about pre-election promises. Eleni Dimopoulos an assistant pro- timing.” “Karamanlis thinks that if he fessor of Political Science at the According to Ms. Theoharakis, a waits longer he’ll loose the game,” University of Maryland in College physician at Washington’s George- he said. Park. “New Democracy was elected town Clinic who travels to Greece Anastasia Tsalikides of Balti- on a business-friendly, reformist quite often, “The country has more praised the Greek Govern- and restructuring platform, and steadily moved ahead since 2004. ment for turning the economy boasts that it raised GDP growth; The reforms started and they are al- around; cutting deficits; and push- cut the budget deficit below the 3 ready bearing fruit. However, a lot ing through reforms and privatiza- percent Maastricht cap; and has more needs to be done.” tions. “But it has faced increasing raised employment level.” There are also those who believe protests at home over unpopular According to Ms. Dimopoulos, Mr. Karamanlis was under pressure belt-tightening measures, slow so- PASOK argues that New Democracy from ministers in his Cabinet to go cial reforms and a series of political has “sold off the family silver” to the polls early because Greek and economic conflicts,” she said. through privatization of publicly newspapers which staunchly sup- Ms. Tsalikides also noted the controlled companies on the port the opposition constantly re- criticism against the Greek Govern- Athens Stock Exchange, but has port that the ruling party’s popular- ment due to the wildfires which failed to implement promises to as- ity has fallen. have ravaged the country this sum- sist the unprivileged classes. “It’s all about timing,” said mer. Elias Stathis of Chevy Chase said Stathis Leontaris of Belleville, New “The question is, will this criti- it doesn’t matter who wins, as long Jersey. “Karamanlis is clearly run- cism against the current govern- as the emerging government takes ning out of time. I recall recent ment help the opposition party win care of business properly. “Drafting opinion polls (in opposition news- the upcoming elections? I don’t the new budget – a budget of devel- papers) show Karamanlis’ conserv- think so,” she said. opment, a budget of responsibility atives leading the main opposition A recent poll shows that only 12 and social solidarity – is a national socialists by only 1-2 percentage percent of Greek citizens think a matter. Whoever gets elected needs points. The Prime Minister has to PASOK administration would do to take care of this matter immedi- hurry up. The socialists have been better; 14 percent think it would do ately.” 4 OBITUARIES CLASSIFIEDS THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007 John Karagiannis, 27, Hard Worker and Dedicated Friend, Dies in Accident

By Demetris Tsakas and once doctors confirmed his home to handle all the arrange- time they needed his help,” he and tried to console each other. Special to The National Herald death, they broke into tears be- ments to transport his body. said, adding that all his friends “John was an excellent person, and cause their best friend – the man Chase Construction President were mourning the loss of an ex- one of my son’s best friends. I con- who always tried to bring a smile to Mike Stathis expressed his grief ceptional young man. sidered him like my own child,” NEW YORK – John Karagiannis, the faces of his friends, acquain- and extolled the virtues and per- George Arapian, 22, recalled said Mrs. Letsios, who is helping 27, hopped on his Honda motorcy- tances and basically everyone he sonality of the deceased. He also that his friendship with the de- raise funds for John’s funeral ex- cle late on Monday night, August came into contact with – was no noted that John was one of his best ceased began in 1999, when they penses. 13, and left Brooklyn to go back to longer among them. employees, and was always moti- used to play pool in Astoria. Leah Hatzisoteriou, who Astoria, where he lived. Shortly af- John Karagiannis, the son of vated. “John was a great guy. He stood worked at the same company, ter midnight, a car accident involv- Constantine and Eve Karagiannis, “He knew the job; had good by his words, and did whatever he called him a “dedicated and excep- ing a taxi occurred on the was born in Lamia, Greece on De- strong hands; and was a worka- promised. He never did anything tional worker,” and said that it was Kosciusko Bridge, which connects cember 22, 1978 and moved to holic, which is why I had given him out of selfishness, but purely for the “a great loss.” Brooklyn and Queens, causing a New York with his parents when he the responsibility of being foreman sake of strengthening the bonds of “John was one of the best and traffic jam on the bridge. was about 10 years of age. Upon at a big project which was recently friendship. He worked as hard as most loyal friends my brother had. As John’s friends told The Na- finishing school, he returned to completed in Brooklyn. Our com- anyone I know, and he would help He was the guy with the biggest tional Herald, he was not able to Greece to fulfill his military obliga- pany’s phone hasn’t stopped ring- his parents out. I’m proud that I grin, and someone who always had see the accident from far away be- tions. ing. Everyone whoever happened was fortunate enough to have had the best things to say about his cause of the limited visibility of the After leaving the army, although to meet John and work with him such an extraordinary friend,” Mr. friends and coworkers,” she said. north side of the bridge and the his parents and brother Spiro had contacted us and asked us to pass Arapian said, noting that he last John’s Body was transported to Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Al- already repatriated to Greece, John their condolences onto his parents spoke with John on August 13 at Greece last Friday, August 17, on though he tried to stop the motor- returned to New York – the city he John Karagiannis and loved ones,” Mr. Stathis added. 5:30 PM. Olympic Airlines. Funeral and bur- cycle, he was unable to avoid the loved – where he managed to make Apostolis Hatzisoteriou, an elec- “I was at work and couldn’t ial services were held last Saturday, crash, and ended up colliding with friends who viewed him as a true mediately notified of the tragic trician, also conveyed his sadness. speak to him longer. If I had known August 18, in Lamia. Arrangements a truck in front of him. brother. news, and it was left to him to “This is a huge loss, and none of that it was the last time we would were handled by the Antonopoulos John was taken to Elmhurst The Herald spoke with John’s break the news to his elderly father us can understand this untimely be speaking, I would have dropped Funeral Home in Astoria. Hospital in record response time, friends, as well as with representa- and ailing mother. and unjust death. He was a devot- what I was doing and spoken to where approximately ten doctors tives from the Long Island City- At the same time, efforts were ed friend, who would do anything him for hours,” said Mr. Arapian, For more information on how ran to his aid in the emergency based Greek American construction being made to gather the necessary he could to help you. He was a also an electrician. to contribute to the special fund room in an attempt to save his life company, Chase Construction, funds to ship John’s body to his hard worker. He would work six John’s friends dedicated the fol- for Mr. Karagiannis’ funeral ex- and resuscitate him. Unfortunately, where the ill-fated 27-year-old hometown in Greece, where his fu- days a week and send part of his lowing quote to him. “They say the penses, call Chase Construction their efforts were unsuccessful due worked. They all had the finest neral and burial were going to take salary to his parents. He had a heart beats to pump blood, but ours at 718-784-4011, or contact Sig- to the severity of his injuries. things to say about him as a person, place. Friends of the young man tremendous soul, and anyone who beats for friends like you.” nature Bank directly at 646-822- As soon as his friends heard the and as an employee. immediately began trying to con- met him felt the assurance that John’s friends gathered at the 4166 (ABA #026013576, account news, they rushed to the hospital, John’s brother in Greece was im- tact a Greek American funeral John would be there for them any- home of Anna Letsios last week, #1500818960). Christina Sacorafas, Killed in Minneapolis Bridge Collapse, Taught Dance at Church

By Demetris Tsakas lish by Father Paris, pastor of the telegram, which was also read dur- missing persons from the bridge Greek Americans appeared par- Stamatiades issued a statement. Special to The National Herald Dormition Church in Minneapolis. ing the funeral service. collapse. ticularly impressed with the cere- “The grief and pain we felt when “Christina Sacorafas will be re- Ms. Sacorafas’ funeral was held That noon, when her body was mony held by the large delegation we heard the news that Christina’s NEW YORK – Dozens of friends membered as an active member of at the Dormition Church and offici- identified and recognized, she from the Daughters of Penelope, body was retrieved from the Missis- and relatives, along with a large the Greek American community, ated by Bishop Demetrios of joined the list of 12 dead, one miss- whose members were all dressed in sippi is unspeakable. We express delegation from the Daughters of with a strong sense of commitment Mokyssos, who represented Arch- ing, and dozens of injured from this white. our sympathy to her parents and Penelope, joined the majority of the to her community and fellow man,” bishop Demetrios of America. Min- horrific accident which has left its Ms. Sacorafas-Mosher was a sec- pray for them, because this unex- members of the Greek Orthodox Mrs. Bakoyanni highlighted in her neapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak and oth- mark on American history. ond-generation Greek American pected end to the agony we had communities of Minneapolis and er city and state officials attended Father, pastor of the Dormition born in Detroit, whose parents been feeling throughout these days Saint Paul, Minnesota to pay their the funeral, along with family Church, spoke to the National Her- came from Samos, Greece. broke all our hearts.” last respects to Christina Sacorafas- members of those who died or were ald shortly before the funeral ser- Following her high school grad- The Greek American communi- Mosher, who died tragically at 45 injured in the bridge collapse. vice and expressed his amazement uation, she moved to San Diego, ties of Minneapolis and St. Paul, led years of age during the I-35W The late Ms. Sacorafas-Mosher at the endurance, morale and met- California along with her parents by the pastors of both churches, bridge collapse in Minneapolis this was on her way to the Dormition tle of the victim’s grieving parents, and younger sister, where they opened a special fund at the Wells past August 1. Church to teach a Greek dance les- Michael and Aphrodite Sacorafas, joined Saints Constantine & Helen Fargo Bank in Minneapolis to sup- The Washburn-Mcreavy Funeral son to parish’s children when the as well as her sister, who is suffer- Church. port the Sacorafas family. Home in Minneapolis was filled bridge gave out. She also had tradi- ing from serious health problems Nearly two years ago, she Father Paris said Greek Ameri- with people who lined up last Sun- tional Greek outfits in her car due to a car accident she suffered a moved to the Twin Cities, where can contributions to the fund have day evening, August 19, to express trunk, which her pupils were going few years ago, which had left her in two of her first cousins reside and been touching, while the concern their condolences to the Sacorafas to wear during their dance presen- a coma that lasted for months. are members of the Saint George’s and love demonstrated by the family, after a memorial service of- tation at the community's Greek Father Paris noted that the con- Church in Saint Paul. Greek American community for Ms. ficiated by Rev. Paul Paris, Rev. festival. Shortly prior to the shock- cern Mrs. Bakoyanni and Mr. Kas- Upon hearing that divers had re- Sacorafas-Mosher and her parents Demetrios Andreou, Rev. Theodore ing event, Ms. Sacorafas-Mosher simis showed the victim’s family trieved Ms. Sacorafas-Mosher’s has captured the attention of the Filandrinos and Rev. Anthony Co- had placed a call to the church say- was comforting to both Greek body last Thursday, the Daughters wider American community, as niaris. ing that she was going to be run- Americans and non-Greeks alike of Penelope Grand President Karen well. The floral arrangement sent by ning a little late due to the traffic, who had filled the funeral home. Greek Foreign Minister Dora without ever being able to imagine One of the women who was Bakoyanni and Deputy Foreign it would be the last phone call she among the first to be saved as her Minister for Hellenes Abroad would ever make. car was pulled out of the bridge col- CLASSIFIEDS Theodore Kassimis stood out, along From that fateful moment up lapse came to pay her respects. with condolences both ministers until the early hours of last Thurs- “This woman stayed for some time, sent to the victim’s parents, which day, August 16, Ms. Sacorafas- and spoke with Christina’s par- HELP WANTED Not affiliated with any were read in both Greek and Eng- Christina Sacorafas-Mosher Mosher was listed as one of the ents,” Father Paris said. other funeral home. JOURNALISTS WANTED Nation’s leading Greek American APOSTOLOPOULOS newspaper needs reporters and as- Apostle Family - sistant editor for English weekly Gregory, Nicholas, Andrew - paper. Exceptional writing/report- Funeral Directors of Steve Tsalickis, “Saint Michael’s Miracle,” Dies at 78 ing skills and bilingual fluency a RIVERDALE must. Car a plus. Fax or e-mail clips FUNERAL HOME Inc. By Elena Lesley away. He was 78. room. Others bowed their heads Despite Tsalickis' miraculous re- and cover letter to 718-472-0510 5044 Broadway St. Petersburg Times During his life, Tsalickis was an silently. covery, it took some time to get the or [email protected]. New York, NY 10034 Eagle Scout, a Pinellas County Parr believes the shrine's healing shrine underway. The archdiocese 111609/01 (212) 942-4000 TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. – As Steve schools guidance counselor, and powers come from the icon her fami- discouraged the plan because church Toll Free 1-888-GAPOSTLE Tsalickis lingered near death, fever- owner of one of the most popular ly brought to Tarpon Springs from officials worried it would become a FUNERAL HOMES ish from what doctors said was an in- restaurants in Tarpon Springs. But it Greece in the late 1930's. Tsalickis' second church which would draw LITRAS FUNERAL HOME curable brain tumor, the 11-year-old is the shrine – actually a small father, James, was a sponger, and members from the city's Greek Or- CONSTANTINIDES ARLINGTON BENSON DOWD, asked his mother to bring him the church – which Tsalickis will always while caught in a treacherous storm, thodox church. FUNERAL PARLOR Co. INC FUNERAL HOME Archangel Michael icon sitting in his be remembered for in Tarpon he prayed to Saint Michael to save Maria Tsalickis decided she 405 91st Street 83-15 Parsons Blvd., family living room. Springs. Through the years, it at- him. If he survived, he said he would would rather displease the Archdio- Bay Ridge - Brooklyn, NY 11209 Jamaica, NY 11432 What happened next, believers tracted thousands of visitors. Can- donate money to the church on his cese than a saint, so she started the (718) 745-1010 (718) 858-4434 • (800) 245-4872 say, was a miracle. cers cured, wounds healed, sight re- native island of Symi. So when project. Before long, "Saint Michael Services in all localities - During the night, the boy began stored – Tsalickis' relatives say there James Tsalickis made it through the started coming to people in dreams," Low cost shipping to Greece mumbling. "I have just seen Saint are too many blessings to count. storm, his wife, Maria, went to Symi said Steve Tsalickis, a cousin. "People Michael," he told his mother. The an- Crutches and canes the healed leave to give $300 to the island's church. were sending money from all over ANTONOPOULOS gel wanted his family to build a behind are jumbled in the shrine's The priest was so pleased, he gave the country." FUNERAL HOME, INC. TO PLACE YOUR shrine in Tarpon Springs. In return, storage closet. Some even reported her the icon, a silver depiction of A holy site was born. "All day Konstantinos Antonopoulos - CLASSIFIED AD, CALL: he would cure the boy's illness. seeing an icon of the Virgin Mary Saint Michael defeating the devil. long, there's a stream of people park- Funeral Director (718) 784-5255, EXT. 106, When the boy's health was re- weep for several days in the late It was this icon which Tsalickis ing and going in," said Steve Tsalick- 38-08 Ditmars Blvd., E-MAIL: stored the next day, his family held 1980's. asked for from his hospital bed. Wak- is, who lives across the street. "It's Astoria, New York 11105 classifieds@ thenationalherald.com up their end of the bargain by con- As news of Tsalickis' death spread ing from a fitful sleep, he told his people of all faiths, all colors." (718) 728-8500 structing a shrine next to their home. through Tarpon's Greek community, mother of his vision. Constructed on the lot adjacent to Today, the legacy of Tsalickis' re- friends and neighbors began turning Though she thought he was prob- Tsalickis' childhood home, it's a mod- covery lives on through that shrine up at the door of his sister, Goldie ably delusional and near death, she est concrete block and stucco build- which, over the years, became a des- Parr, crying, hugging and making promised she would build a shrine to ing, kept impeccable by Parr's watch- tination for anyone in search of a plans for the funeral. As they trickled Saint Michael, Parr said. ful eye. miracle. out, many walked over to the shrine But the next morning, "he woke Notes on her fridge remind her of On Thursday, August 16, more at 113 Hope Street to say a prayer up at 10 AM, got out of bed and took various special requests. A woman than 60 years after doctors first pre- before the walls of colorful icons. three steps," Parr said. "The doctor from Colorado wants her to light subscribe dicted his death, Tsalickis passed Some lit candles in the quiet couldn't believe it." candles in the shrine on specific PRINTED EDITION OF THE NATIONAL HERALD days. Another wants her to send holy via the post-office: oil-blessed by tears from the Virgin ❏1 Month for $9.95 ❏3 Months for $19.95 Mary icon. ❏6 Months for $29.95 ❏One Year fo $59.85 DEATHS Tsalickis left the duty of tending the shrine to his sister, who took over VIA HOME DELIVERY (NY, NJ & CT): ■ COMARELL, FRANK Greek music and dancing. The fu- ■ MAROULLETIS, KYRIAKOS after his mother died in 1994. His ❏1 Month for $12.95 ❏3 Months for $29.95 SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Salt neral was held on August 21 at NEW YORK – It was reported that children say he was surprisingly non- ❏6 Months for $43.99 ❏One Year for $80.00 Lake City Tribune reported that Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Kyriakos Maroulletis, 76, passed chalant about it. VIA HOME DELIVERY (NEW ENGLAND, PENNSYLVANIA & Theo Frank Comarell, 92, passed Cathedral in Salt Lake City. Memo- away on Sunday, August 5, 2007 at "He didn't really talk about it WASHINGTON D.C., VIRGINIA, MARYLAND) away on Friday, August 17, 2007 in rial donations to Holy Trinity Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. much," his daughter Tula Manglis ❏1 Month for $15.95 ❏3 Months for $37.45 Salt Lake City. He is survived by his Cathedral (279 South 300 West, He is survived by his daughters; and said. ❏ ❏ son Nicholas (Joan) Comarell; his Salt Lake City, UT 84101). his grandchildren. He had been in He decided against becoming a 6 Months for $51.75 One Year for $99.00 daughter Athena Van Gorder; his the hospital for three weeks be- priest, which had been his dream as ON LINE SUBSCRIPTION www.thenationalherald.com daughter-in-law, Ginger Comarell; ■ MANTZOROS, ARISTIDES cause of complications after an op- a child, and instead became a guid- NON SUBSCRIBERS: ❏One Year for $29.95 his grandchildren Maria (Dale) SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The San eration. He was born on November ance counselor. He retired from the ❏One Month for $3.95 Milham, Autumn (Chris) Ruther- Francisco Chronicle reported that 21, 1930 in Ammochostos, Cyprus Pinellas County school system in SUBSCRIBERS: ❏One Year for $19.95 ❏One Month for $1.95 ford, Melissa (Ryan) Buck, Josh Aristides G. Mantzoros, 80, passed and emigrated to the United States 1980. (Cassie) Comarell, Kiah Van away on Monday, August 6, 2007. in the 1960s. After the Turkish inva- Later in life, Tsalickis became the Gorder and Zoe Van Gorder; his He is survived by his wife Catherine sion and occupation of Northern owner of Paul's Shrimp House, NAME: ...... great-grandchildren Brittany, Han- Mantzoros; his daughters Eugenia Cyprus in 1974, the rest of his fami- which won raves for its boiled ADDRESS: ...... nah, Grace Mary, Gracie, and Ri- Mantzoros and Georgia (Steve) ly also emigrated. He didn’t want to shrimp, Greek salads and seafood CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... ley; and several nieces and Sclavos; his grandsons Peter and visit the occupied area even when it dishes. nephews. He was predeceased by Ted Sclavos; his sister Alice was allowed, but his daughter Ele- His kids say he was more interest- TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... his wife Mary (Maria); his brothers Paloglou; and several nieces and na convinced him to go last year. ed in entertaining friends and family PLEASE SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO: Vasili, John, George and Gus; and nephews. He was predeceased by The funeral was held on August 7 at and cooking up big tubs of kar- NAME: ...... his sister Deena. He was born in his sisters Irene (Panos) Gianaras Saint Catherine-Saint George Greek vouma, a lard-laden seafarer's meat ADDRESS: ...... Levidi, Greece, the youngest child and Annette (George) Loucas; and Orthodox Church in New York. stirred with an oar, than discussing of Nicholas and Athena Koumarel- his brother-in-law Milton Paloglou. supernatural events. Even so, as he CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... las July 17, 1915. He served in the A native San Franciscan and entre- looked toward his final hours, Tsal- TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... Please specify method of payment Greek army during World War II, preneur for 40 years, he was a This is a service to the community. ickis took comfort in the icon he and immigrated to SLC in 1951 proud member of various clubs like thought had saved him once before. I enclose a check/money order for $ ...... made payable to: with his wife, son, and daughter. Ahepa, Elks of San Mateo, Turtles, Announcements of deaths may be On Monday, August 13, the last day telephoned to the Classified The National Herald, Inc., 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101 - 2614 He was owner/ operator of the As- Yuerba Buena Angling and SIR. He he was conscious, family members or please debit my ❏ Mastercard ❏ Visa ❏ American Express tronaut Lounge and Aloha Café. was also a World War II Navy Veter- Department of The National Herald took Saint Michael from his shrine He was a hard-working, enterpris- an. The funeral was held on August at (718) 784-5255, and gave it to him. CARD NUMBER: ...... ing, self-taught man. He was a 14 at the Annunciation Greek Or- Monday through Friday, Said Parr: "He was holding it and EXPIRATION DATE: ...... SIGNATURE:...... skilled gardener, carpenter, and thodox Cathedral in San Francisco. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST smiling." enjoyed fixing everything for him- Memorial donations to Annuncia- or e-mailed to: self and others. He was a generous, tion Cathedral Building Fund (245 [email protected] The St. Petersburg Times pub- strong, proud man who loved Valencia Street, S.F., CA 94103). lished the above on August 17. THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007 GREECE CYPRUS 5 Christodoulos in Good Large Forest Fire Burns in Athens’ Northern Suburbs By John F.L. Ross Pre-Op Condition for Associated Press

ATHENS (AP) – Hellenic Fire offi- Liver Transplant Surgery cials and residents struggled to as- sess damage from a massive forest Continued from page 1 along with the work that was just fire that began to subside late last presented on the other hand, re- week after burning houses, cars and tourage were seen off by many futes such assertions, and stands as animals, and forcing the evacuation prelates and priests as they left for proof of our willingness to do our of two medical clinics near Athens. Miami from the military air base in part to shoulder the responsibility A large forest fire which began Elefsina last Saturday morning, in that belongs to us as it pertains to last Thursday, August 16, blazed addition to members of Mr. Kara- society and man.” through parts of Athens' northern manlis’ cabinet: Education & Reli- In the same speech, the Arch- suburbs, burning houses, disrupting gious Affairs Minister Marietta Gi- bishop spoke about science and or- power supplies and forcing the evac- annakou, Defense Minister Evange- gan transplants: “Amid the preva- uation of 130 patients from a psychi- los Meimarakis, and Health Minis- lence of a perverse self-love in our atric clinic, Hellenic fire officials ter Demetris Avramopoulos. era, scientific and technological ad- said. Archbishop Demetrios of Ameri- vances – aside from feeding our ego Fire officials said a new front ca, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, – give us sacred abilities which were broke out in the area of Dionysos local clergy and Greek-American unfathomable in the past. We can last Thursday afternoon, but the residents were on-hand at Miami now offer parts of our body to our worst of the blaze was under con- International Airport to greet fellow man and edify their lives up- trol. But variable winds and ap- Christodoulos, who also received on our death. proaching nightfall – which pre- bouquets from the children of the This accomplishment has deeply vents firefighting aircraft from oper- Greek Community. Dr. Tzakis’ moved the Church, which naturally ating – meant the situation re- daughter was one of those children, seeks to identify the parameters of mained perilous. and was even dressed in a tradition- this practice and actively support The fire started on the slopes of al Greek outfit. Dr. Tzakis himself it.” Mount Penteli on the northern edge was not able to personally attend He also stressed the divine and of the city and strong winds blew AP/DEMETRIS MESSINIS the welcoming ceremony for the invaluable gift of health. “The fast-moving flames toward the capi- A large cloud of smoke from the Nea Penteli area of Mount Penteli billows over Athens last Thursday, August 16. Archbishop because he had to per- names that the faithful hand in at tal's wealthy suburbs of Politia, Fanned on by gale-force winds, the fire swept through pine trees and brush, extending along several kilometers form emergency surgery that after- Church to be read are 95-percent Melissia, Nea Penteli and Vrilissia. of rugged terrain and sending a cloud of thick smoke over the Greek capital. noon. related to health and only 5-percent The blaze broke out around In an exclusive statement to The related to the repose of souls or oth- 10:30 AM. Flames extended across four houses burning. People were ment spokesman, said the blaze had A prosecutor in Athens charged a National Herald, Christodoulos er supplications. several miles of hillside terrain, doing everything they could to fight started simultaneously in four dif- man last Saturday, August 18, with said, “I feel especially touched and The direct impact of health upon torching pine forests and sending the flames." ferent points on Mount Penteli and starting the fire on Mt. Penteli that happy to be in the United States, a our lives frequently makes it an acrid smoke over much of Athens. Fire Department Spokesman had spread rapidly because of gale destroyed dozens of homes and large and hospitable country, and even greater and more important The smoke could be seen as far away Evangelos Falaras said strong winds force winds that hampered firefight- large swathes of forestland north of home to our great and invaluable need than the very salvation of our as the Saronic Gulf islands, dozens were hampering the firefighting ef- ing efforts. Meanwhile four other Athens last week. The 57-year-old of miles south of Athens. fort. Officials said several houses large fires raged in southern and man, who was not identified by Television footage showed huge had partly burned, but no further in- western Greece. name, pleaded innocent to the flames burning near apartment formation was immediately avail- Parts of Greece and southern Eu- charges of arson and endangering buildings and panicked residents able. rope have been charred by hundreds lives, saying he had been in a cafe trying to fight the fire with garden About 130 patients from a near- of forest fires this summer in tinder- when the fire broke out, according hoses. One fire truck was destroyed, by psychiatric clinic were evacuated. box conditions brought about by a to Hellenic Police. The man said his the fire department said, and one Vassilis Kanoussis, press officer drought and successive heat waves. son, a fire fighter, had died earlier firefighter was hospitalized with a for the municipality of Kifissia, said, A weeklong blaze in late June this year fighting another blaze in leg injury. "The fire is abating in Politia and Ki- charred large parts of a national Athens. The blaze also caused power py- fissia, but we have no idea of the park on Mount Parnitha, also near The prosecutor said the man had lons to explode, leading to electrici- damage because we must first extin- Athens, while flames came within been implicated by witnesses, and ty cuts to large parts of the northern guish the fire.” 110 yards of apartments on the ordered that he be held until a suburbs. More than 100 firefighters, slopes of Mount Hymettus, near judge would decide whether he "The situation is dramatic. Many helped by seven water-dropping he- Athens. In 1995 a huge blaze de- should be detained until trial. No houses have been destroyed, I can't licopters and six airplanes, fought stroyed much of the forestland on further information about the case say how many," said Melissia Mayor the flames. Penteli, which also suffered further was immediately available at press Manolis Grafakos. I saw three or Nikos Diamandes, a fire depart- fires in 1998-2001. time. Karamanlis Opts for Early Elections on September 16

Continued from page 1

to base their re-election campaign on the economy. "Our country has developed healthy public finances," Karaman- lis said in his speech. "The economy is growing at a rapid pace. We have created more than 200,000 new AP/PETROS GIANNAKOURIS jobs; improved competitiveness; Archbishop Christodoulos, primate of the Church of Greece, smiles and boosted exports and tourism." prior to departing from Elefsis military airport, southwest of Athens, The deficit has been reduced last Saturday, August 18. He left Greece for the U.S., where he will un- from 7.8 percent of GDP in 2004 to dergo liver transplant surgery at the University of Miami/Jackson an expected 2.4 percent this year. Memorial Medical Center. Growth is forecast to exceed 4 per- cent this year. Unemployment has Greek American Community, to souls. The thirst for life is so human fallen from 11.3 percent in 2004 to which I send much love, wishes and and so deeply rooted in our exis- about 8 percent. my heartfelt thanks. tence, and the Church feels this, But PASOK Chairman George I have received many messages clearly understands it and respects Papandreou, said he was still "con- from members of the Greek Ameri- it.” fident of victory," and a Socialist can community, and I am grateful More recently, and only a few party spokesman claimed the Gov- for their love and concern. I believe days prior to his admission into ernment had failed to implement in the power of God, the doctors’ ca- Athens’ Aretaieion Hospital, in fact, the platform on which it was elect- pabilities, and this country’s med- the Archbishop spoke at a confer- ed in 2004. ical system, which is very advanced. ence this past June 8, “Thirty Years "Finally, the end: in 29 days, Dr. Tzakis holds a prestigious posi- of Service to Transplants and Immu- Greece will turn the page. On Sep- tion here, and I have put my trust in nity,” at the amphitheater of the tember 17, the new PASOK govern- him and have come here convinced prestigious Academy of Athens’ Bio- ment gets down to work. Not one that all will go well.” medical Research Institute, where day can be wasted after four lost He also said, “I want to thank His he characteristically remarked, “I years under New Democracy," he Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, want to use this forum to send an said. EUROKINISSI who so kindly welcomed me on be- appeal to all the faithful to consider Last Friday's newspapers linked Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, left, greets Karolos Papoulias, President of the Hellenic Republic, last Friday, half of His All Holiness Ecumenical their fellow man and the need for the election announcement with August 17. Karamanlis called for early elections this coming September 16, 4 months before his first term was set Patriarch Bartholomew, along with organ donors. the previous day's huge fire in Pen- to expire, and submitted his request to Papoulias, who approved the Premier’s decision to dissolve Parliament. Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta.” The appeal of organ donation is teli on the outskirts of northern Christodoulos’ entourage – Met- not a novelty. I want to ask you all to Athens. consecutive years (from 1993 to Metron Analysis respectively – poll surveyed 2,000 respondents ropolitan Theoklitos of Vresthena, remember that life is a gift from "They let Athens burn while 2004), and for 19 out of the previ- were the first issued since the through questionnaires, while the Archdiocese of Athens Chancellor God, Who is wherefore called Lord preparing elections," Ta Nea (The ous 23. Greek Government announced Metron Analysis poll included Rev. Thomas Synodinos and of Life, and a beneficence from Him News), a daily newspaper which Two separate public opinion snap elections last Friday. 1,056 respondents surveyed Archdeacon Anthimos Regides – Who benefits life by granting the has staunchly supported PASOK for polls released late this past According to the GPO poll, New through telephone interviews. The has remained by his side constantly. Holy Spirit. Many of the Lord’s mir- years, on its front page. Wednesday, August 22, showed Democracy holds a 1.6 percentage margins of error for both polls were His attending physician, Dr. Dionys- acles involved the healing and But analysts point out the fires New Democracy leading PASOK by point lead over PASOK, while the not immediately available. ios Voros, and Drs. Seraphim Nanas restoring of the body. In this way, He will not significantly affect the elec- a not-so-small margin (for Greece) Metron Analysis poll records a 1.5 and George Frangoulides also ac- taught us that caring for the body of toral outcome. Recent opinion polls weeks ahead of the newly sched- percentage advantage for the rul- The above incorporates infor- companied him on his trip our fellow man is a work of philan- give Karamanlis' conservative gov- uled general elections. ing party. mation from reports posted by The Archbishop has been staying thropy.” ernment a significant edge over the The polls – conducted by Greek Both polls were conducted over Dow Jones Industrial News and at the home of Haralambos Tzane- Christodoulos is expected to re- socialists, who governed for 11 polling companies GPO and the period August 20-22. The GPO the Athens News Agency. tatos, a Greek American who has generously granted Christodoulos use of his home. The Archbishop had asked to rent the house, but Mr. Tzanetatos, out of his great love and •ANNOUNCEMENT• respect for Greece’s top cleric, did HERA SAMBAZIOTIS, MD, MPH, FACOG not accept the offer, and granted is pleased to announce to the communities him use of his home rent-free as a Learn the Greek Language of Queens and Long Island the opening of her practice. token of his esteem. She is available for consultation at the following addresses: Archbishop Christodoulos has, coincidentally, also spoken and ΒAYSIDE LAKE SUCCESS written articles about organ trans- 44-01 Francis Lewis Boulevard 2800 Marcus Avenue, Suite 204 plants, and following his initiative, Bayside, NY 11361 Lake Success, NY 11042 the Church of Greece established the Center of Biomedical Ethics & Tel. 718-352-1400 Tel. 516-437-2020 • Fax 516-437-2019 Deontology in 2001, placing the St. Demetrios Hellenic Community of Astoria chairman of the Holy Synod’s Com- The practice offers the following: mittee on Biomedical Ethics, Rev. • Obstetrical and Gynecologic Ultrasound •3D and 4D imaging offers weekly Greek language for adult learners Nikolaos Hatzinikolaou (now the • Gynecologic surgery •HPV testing •HPV vaccine Metropolitan of Mesogaia & • Family Planning/Contraception •Evaluation & Treatment of Infertility • Preconception Counseling & Complete Obstetrical Care, etc… In the heart of Astoria, we have been teaching the Greek language to adults for Lavreotica) as head of the center, on several years. In a friendly, warm and welcoming environment you will feel right at account of his extensive academic • Appointments preferred studies at MIT, Harvard and Holy • Convenient office hours, including evenings and Saturdays, available home, while learning Greek and understanding the culture. Cross Greek Orthodox School of • Most insurances accepted Our location is within walking distance from the N train, where you have access to Theology in Brookline. During his address at the open- restaurants, cafes and shops. ing of the Center, Christodoulos The program is tailored to small groups and instruction is based on student’s stated, “We often hear criticism that When you advertise in The National Herald level, interest and requirements. Lessons incorporate learning through conversation, the Church appears taken by sur- grammar and audiovisual aids. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced prise, or unsure and afraid of diffi- cult issues and new problems ap- Greek Americans pay attention student, our lessons are structured to meet your needs, advance your knowledge and pearing on the horizon. make it work for you. That is the reason, they say, that Classes are held on Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. Demetrios School located it responds with irresponsible si- The National Herald lence or spiteful and insincere at 30-03 30th Drive, Astoria, NY. Tuition fees are $500 per year (Sept-June). naysaying. Our Church’s decision to (718) 784-5255 ext. 101 be the first organization in Greece For additional information and registration please call 718-728-1718 to establish a committee on bio- [email protected] medical ethics on the one hand, 6 EDITORIALS LETTERS THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007

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 Another Call for AHEPA to Allow sional organization which does not and the “secretive” problems of the understand Greek American immi- to the Greek American community of the United States of America. Greater Voting Rights to Members provide for the direct participation church, officials, etc. are very im- grant stories and history. of all members in good standing for portant. Those first years of our parents Publisher-Editor Antonis H. Diamataris To The Editor: the election of the offices of presi- There are so many fundamental and grandparents’ lives and jobs dent and vice president. facts and information your paper are significant. More children Assistant to Publisher, Advertising Veta H. Diamataris Papadopoulos Ted Maroulis’ letter in your Au- Neither does it allow the publi- constantly questions and brings to should know how Greek immi- Managing Editor Evan C. Lambrou gust 18 edition raised a very impor- cation of biographical sketches of our attention. grants helped build America. Production Manager Chrysoula Karametros tant issue regarding the election of the candidates for these offices in I also enjoy reading the guest The new articles by Andy Dabilis Webmaster Alexandros Tsoukias the national officers for the Order its AHEPAN magazine prior to the editorials on politics and interna- about American viewpoints on The National Herald (USPS 016864) is published weekly by of AHEPA. election. tional news by Gene Rossides, Am- Greece are also very relevant and The National Herald Inc. at 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 The legislative motion of having In July 2008, AHEPA will hold bassador Theros and other colum- funny. Tel: (718)784-5255, Fax: (718)472-0510, all members in good standing di- its Supreme Convention in Athens, nists. My aunt subscribed to the Greek e-mail: [email protected] rectly participate in the election of Greece. What better opportunity They keep us thinking about daily edition of the National Herald the national officers has been than this to enact the democratic American positions on relevant since the 1940’s and continued till Democritou 1 and Academias Sts, Athens, 10671, Greece Tel: 011.30.210.3614.598, Fax: 011.30.210.3643.776, e-mail: [email protected] known by the title: ONE MAN ONE process at the historic cradle of topics concerning Greece, Turkey, 1990. Now I’m reading it in Eng- VOTE. Democracy. What greater honor is Cyprus, the Balkans and the Middle lish. Keep up the good work. Thank Subscriptions by mail: 1 year $59.85, 6 months $29.95, 3 months $19.95, 1 month $9.95 Washington Chapter No. 31 in there for the young Supreme Presi- East. You! Home delivery NY, NJ, CT: 1 year $80.00, 6 months $43.99, 3 months $29.99, 1 month $12.95 AHEPA’s 3rd District has repeatedly dent, Ike Gulas, to lead this historic I especially like Steve Frangos’ Home delivery New England States, Pennsylvania & Washington DC: passed resolutions asking that the change which will revitalize articles on our community’s history. Ethel Tsausis 1 year $99.00, 6 months $51.75, 3 months $37.45, 1 month $15.95 On line subscription: Non subscribers: 1 year $29.95, 1 month $3.95; proposal be put to a vote before the AHEPA. It’s so important for us to know and Waukegan, Illinois Subscribers: 1 year $19.95, 1 month $1.95 delegates at a Supreme AHEPA Convention. Prof. Theodore P. Perros Periodical postage paid at L.I.C. NY and additional mailing offices. Only once, at the Phoenix Con- Past Supreme Governor Postmaster send change of address to: vention in 2003, did the motion Washington Chapter No. 31 TO OUR READERS THE NATIONAL HERALD, 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 reach the Convention floor. By one- The National Herald welcomes letters from its readers intended for publi- half a vote, the motion failed to reach the required two-thirds ma- Thank You, National Herald for cation. They should include the writer’s name, address, and telephone jority. Your Service to the Community number and be addressed to: The Editor, The National Herald, 37-10 30th Many previous efforts to bring Street, Long Island City, NY 11101. Greek-Armenian Coalition the motion to the floor have been To the Editor: Letters can also be faxed to (718) 472-0510 or e-mailed to defeated at the Convention Legisla- [email protected]. We reserve the right to edit let- This past Wednesday, the Associated Press reported that the Jewish Anti- tive Committee level by political Thank you for such informative Defamation League called the World War I-era massacre of Armenians in Asia considerations. and interesting stories from across ters for publication and regret that we are unable to acknowledge or re- Minor (present-day Turkey) genocide – just days after the ADL fired a region- To my knowledge, AHEPA is the this country and Greece. Certainly turn those left unpublished. al director for taking the same stance. only national fraternal or profes- your articles on our Archdiocese ADL Director Abraham Foxman’s statement that the mass murder of Ar- menians by Muslim Turks “were indeed tantamount to genocide” came after weeks of controversy, during which critics questioned whether an organiza- tion dedicated to remembering Holocaust victims could remain credible PRESS CLIPPINGS without acknowledging the Armenian killings as genocide. The New York-based organization had called the deaths of 1.5 million Ar- menians at the hands of Muslim Turks between 1915 and 1923 an atrocity, but stopped just short of saying it was genocide (i.e., a planned extermination of the Turkey’s Christian Armenian minority). This was nonetheless a major Whatever Happened to Wrestling Since Jim Londos’ Day? victory for the Armenian American community which, for years now, has en- deavored to have the massacre of so many people recognized for what it real- By Sid Dorfman whether steroids actually did them the original, which often could be particularly in New Jersey, where at ly is. Though the ADL stopped short of complete support when it stated it The Star-Ledger in. Steroids were reportedly found boring when two combatants be- least one school uses television to would not back a pending Congressional resolution which calls the massacre in Benoit's home, but possibly for come frozen to each other. accommodate community fans a genocide, saying it was “a counterproductive diversion which will not foster Now steroids are seen as a possi- legal health use. Drugs would have An Adonis named Jim Londos who want to see the matches. reconciliation between Turks and Armenians,” it is still an important about- ble killer of professional wrestlers. been suspect, anyway, given the started out as an entertainer, then Tournament time is one of the face (of sorts) that a Jewish organization offers a significant measure of sup- It wouldn't bother me if the phony scripted punishment these guys in- turned to honest matches and be- major sports events in the state. port for the Armenian cause, if not completely from an official standpoint, sport itself expired, but not the ac- flict upon each other. They have to came the "greatest wrestler in the When they're through, the kids and could help tip the scales. tors themselves. be in great shape for such a mortal world," except in Greece, where he who want to wrestle may continue If the U.S. Congress passes the resolution and officially recognizes the Ar- It's still a mystery how bug-eyed act. became even bigger than that. on in college. After that, it's show menian Genocide, then it sets a major precedent for the Assyrian Christian fans remain faithful to such open Wrestling's heroes and villains Londos was a Greek, born Chris- business. and Pontian Greek Genocides to also be officially recognized in America. fakery, although maybe the fright- today, muscles bulging like the eyes tos Theofilou in the late 1800's. He Dr. Johnny Benjamin, a leading Publicly, the Armenian Genocide has overshadowed the Pontian Geno- ful beating the wrestlers take inside of their female followers, unload eventually immigrated to the U.S. national orthopedic surgeon for cide, during which hundreds of thousands of Greek men, women and chil- the ring – and often outside it – ex- on each other with such ferocity and became a national hero here. sports-related injuries, is now re- dren were massacred between 1920 and 1923. Though a little smaller in plains its popularity. Once again, vi- that the customers are rendered When he returned to Greece one searching the question of whether scale, the Greek American community must also push Congress and the Inter- olence identifies who we are. weak with pleasure. time for a match, the crowd was es- "wrestling is dangerous for your national community to officially recognize the Pontian Genocide, as well as Wrestling has now caught box- Violence is everywhere. The timated at nearly 100,000. He health." the Armenian and Assyrian Genocides, in Turkey. ing as show business with blood. brainless martial arts fighting, now drew very large crowds here, too. While he does that, Benjamin Greek and Armenian Americans should pool their resources together and Steroids probably would not including women, is fast passing After Londos, wrestling became has been working with boxers to form a united front. They can mutually benefit from such a cooperative have become an issue except for conventional boxing as an attrac- routinely rigged, a traveling road learn what impact fighting has on arrangement. Activists from each community could actually form a formida- the inconvenient death of two star tion. show; first with young acrobats their wellbeing – although steroids ble lobby and push calls for recognition of the genocides much more effec- wrestlers within the last two Once upon a time, wrestling was who did put on a delightful, if spu- have not become an issue yet in tively, and by working together, the Pontian Genocide won’t be just an after- months. The first was Chris Benoit, honest, or at least as honest as box- rious, flying act; then today with boxing, possibly because a boxer thought in discussions concerning Turkish atrocities. in an assumed murder-suicide; the ing. Then it became an act. But the heavier, more villainous types. must control his weight, and It would behoove the Armenian community to lend its support in a latest, Brian Adams, whose nick- public didn't miss a beat maintain- It bizarre that the only true steroids are no way to do it. weightier manner. Just like the Jewish community adds to its credibility con- name, Crush, was surefire box of- ing its allegiance. wrestling in the country is found at cerning the Jewish Holocaust by recognizing the massacres of other ethnic fice. If anything, the patrons love the high school and college levels. The Star-Ledger published the groups, so too would our Armenian friends by joining forces with us. It goes No one knows for sure yet phony wrestling even more than There, it is enormously popular, above on August 22. without saying that we should join forces with them also. Greek and Armenian Americans should invite each other to form a coali- tion and accept each other’s invitations, and not simply as a courtesy. With Hellenic and Armenian caucuses in the House of Representatives, it couldn’t COMMENTARY be a better time. Turkey’s Islamic Lens The Cafenion, the Mediterranean Diet and the Heart

Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, Turkey’s observant Muslim presidential By Dr. Arthur C. Cosmas πλακα. protective effect against cardiovas- usually include any of the follow- hopeful, is pledging to adhere to secular principles. “No one should have Special to The National Herald To our immediate left, a refrig- cular disease. ing: from the sea, porgy, (Royal Do- doubt on this issue,” Mr. Gul said recently, promising to abandon his political erated cooler containing bottled Daily dishes include meals rado), a fatty white fish with a mild affiliations and be a neutral president. “Principles of the constitution will be HARTFORD, Conn. – Tucked into a water, soft drinks and fruit separat- cooked with olive oil, and soups flavor and firm flakes (high in my guide.” corner within the multi-ethnic sec- ed us from an incredibly small but and salads rich in olive oil. It is high omega-3 fatty acids and relatively Gul’s candidacy triggered an earlier political crisis, and led the Turkish tion of the historic south end of immaculate kitchen, adequately in complex carbohydrates from low in calories), traditionally Government to call July elections amid threats from the Turkish military to Hartford sits an inconspicuous one- equipped with a refrigerator and a legumes, and high in fiber from served with lemon slices and step into the election process. story yellow cement building pro- stainless steel sink, and highlighted fruits and vegetables. greens (χόρτα), a popular choice The conflict over modern Turkey’s national identity has been brewing ever tected on two sides by small park- by a massive black iron gas stove High fruit and vegetable con- and a favorite among Greeks; since Ataturk founded the “secular” republic after the collapse of the Ot- ing lots. with all four burners flaming like sumption ensures a sufficient in- squid (καλαµάρι) and octopus toman Empire in the early 20th Century. Ataturk gave women the right to Any hint of its character may be the Olympic torch. take of dietary antioxidants and en- (χταπόδι) are equally popular and vote; restricted Islamic dress; and replaced Arabic script with the Roman al- presumed by Greek and American Hunched over this fiery caldera hances protection against cardio- generally available. phabet. But Islam has remained potent at the grassroots level, and the return flags positioned above a front patio (as if appealing for guidance from vascular disease, stress and inflam- From the land, steak (µπριζόλα) of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Islamic-oriented Justice & Devel- vaguely symbolic of εύζωνες guard- the Oracle of Delphi, or observing mation. marinated in extra virgin olive oil opment Party to power with 46.6 percent of the vote in July elections has ing the tomb of the unknown war- Atlantis vanish beneath the In contrast, low levels of dietary and garlic, and served with fresh alarmed the so-called secularists. rior at Σύνταγµα. Mediterranean, effectively manag- antioxidants are associated with french fries (πατάτες τηγανιτές) Gul defended his wife’s right to wear a headscarf as a personal preference, The patio, usually known as the ing a cluster of steaming pots loss of muscle mass and strength prepared in extra virgin olive oil, or for example, arguing (rightly) that the rights of individuals were guaranteed πλακα, is enclosed by a three foot (µαγειρεύοντας δοχεία), is Alex (sarcopenia) leading to decreased skewered pork in a pita bread wrap under the Turkish constitution. high black wrought-iron fence, (Αλέκος), the host (οικοδεσπότης), physical function. Fish, rather than (σουβλάκι), are typical items. Red Moreover, Turkey’s imams are (rightly) calling for their government to within which are several umbrella- cook (µάγειρας), waiter meat, is generally preferred. wine or beer generally fortifies the compensate them for 18-hour days leading the Turkish nation’s Muslims in topped weather-beaten tables (σερβιτόρος), cashier (ταµίας) and There is compelling evidence re- spirit for the defense at Thermopy- prayer. Turkish civil servants are paid overtime for exceeding a normal 40- which provide a taverna-like at- dishwasher (πιατάς), all in one. garding fish consumption and the lae. hour five-day week, but imams, also government workers, are excluded. mosphere for all aspects of outdoor My friends were amazed that prevention of coronary artery dis- The last plate is likely to consist And while both Gul and Erdogan have rejected the Islamic fundamentalist Greek life, including traditional this man single-handedly com- ease attributed to the cardiovascu- of Greek yogurt, either plain, with label, citing their promotion of sweeping reforms to advance Turkey’s bid to “conspiratorial activity.” pletes the tasks which convention- lar benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. honey or fruit, or a plate of mixed join the European Union, they have also sought to improve ties with the Is- This is the home of the Hartford ally require an entire staff. Although the intake of dairy fruit. lamic world. Hellenic Soccer Club; to Greeks, Alex cordially greeted us with products is low, the consumption of For those with nocturnal aspira- All of this indicates a clear conflict between Islamists and “secularists” the κασπίτι καφέ or καφενείο, and the traditional γεία σου, and we low-fat feta cheese and yogurt is tions, a cup of demitasse coffee fol- within Turkey, but it also signifies other wider struggles concerning the Islam- to non-Greeks (who are acquainted proceeded to sit at a checkered high. lowed by a sleepless night or a shot ic faith and its relation to the rest of the world. with it), “the Greek Club.” vinyl cloth covered table close to a The diet also includes a regular of ούζο, followed by the traditional The State Department pushes Turkey as a “model” Islamic country. Much Recently, on a warm, summer large flat screen television, precari- but moderate intake of alcohol, pri- γεία σου and a peaceful sleep might of this is wishful thinking, of course, but it begs the question: In which way is evening, I decided to take a few of ously balancing on a wobbly stand marily in the form of red wine, gen- be prescribed. any Islamic country “model?” my non-Greek friends to the Greek and broadcasting the daily news erally with meals. By the way, if porgy is your Some argue that Turkey is developing, or has developed, into a “model” Is- Club for a typical Greek meal and a from Greece (καθηµερινές ειδήσεις Low to moderate consumption choice, don’t be offended if Νικοs lamic state because it blends Islam with secular Western values; and that local Hellenic cultural experience. από την Ελλάδα) at full volume. of alcohol has been associated with (the Club’s most sociable member Turkey is a tolerant country. But nothing could be further from the truth. Two locked doors opened by a Even though no one appeared to an increase in HDL cholesterol lev- and local Hellenic ambassador) ap- First of all, it’s a fallacy to think religion and secularism can be so easily “member’s key” immediately cata- be watching, except perhaps for an els and a reduction in the risk of de- proaches you and declares, “Oh, blended, as the two are often at odds with one another – one of the reasons pulted us backward into a time isolated member in the corner who veloping CAD. This has been attrib- you can’t be Greek because you are why there’s Separation of Church and State in America. warp remarkably comparable to was nervously manipulating his uted to its relaxation effects on using utensils. We use our fingers.” Secondly, in spite of its efforts to play the secular card since the days of Athens in the 1950’s. worry beads (κοµπολόι), I wasn’t blood vessels and its anti-platelet Greeks often do pick the porgy to Ataturk, the evidence clearly indicates that Turkey can not escape its Islamic Our immediate sensation was courageous enough to suggest that effects similar to aspirin. the bones with their fingers. No of- nature and past. olfactory, as my friends detected the channel be changed, or that the Typical meals at the καφενείο fense to Emily Post. In the days of the Ottoman Empire, Turkey had a class system. Basically, and hungrily described a variety of volume be lowered. follow the Mediterranean diet. For Incidentally, the list of non- there were two classes: the Muslims, who were the first class, and the non- unknown but tantalizingly appetiz- Feeling much less conspicuous the first plate, Aλέκος served an ap- Greeks who want to return to the Muslims, who were the second class; and the first class lorded it over the sec- ing aromas. and more comfortable now that we petizer (ορεκτικό) consisting of an- Greek club continues to grow. It ond class, which was considered the servant class. For me, images of µπουζούκι και were seated, my American friends chovies, giant beans (γίγαντες) might have something to do with The effects of this class system are still in effect today. The Ecumenical Pa- χορός at Sissifos Taverna in the noticed several septuagenarians, olives, roasted peppers, feta cheese its “ambiance” but I suspect more triarch of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul), who is recognized the πλακα section of Athens and eating octogenarians and a few nonage- and Greek bread, followed by a to Αλεκος’ Mediterranean gastro- world over as the spiritual head of the world’s Orthodox Christians, has been σπανακόπιτα as a child at θεία narians among the members. My peasant or village salad (χωριάτικη nomic proficiency. Καλή όρεξη.” summoned to Turkish court because he continues to use his historic title. And Mary’s house in Manchester, New friends were astonished that these σαλάτα), which includes tomatoes, the Turkish Government has also recently denied Archbishop Chrysostomos Hampshire flashed through my “old men” were so energetic since cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, Dr. Cosmas is an Associate of Cyprus’ request to meet with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. mind. disability is a serious problem and kalamata olives garnished with Professor at the University of In a country which officially insists it is a tolerant nation with secular val- Almost as quickly, we were deliv- which threatens independence of oregano and immersed in extra vir- Connecticut, and is Chief Clinical ues, Turkey continues to demonstrate intolerance. In the process, Turkey con- ered back to the present and abrupt- many elderly members in our soci- gin olive oil (incidentally, Greek Consultant in Sports Medicine & tinues to maintain a cloud over Islam as a “religion of peace.” ly confronted by several sets of sus- ety. bread is extremely effective for ab- Rehabilitation at HealthSouth This is not only something for Mr. Erdogan and Mr. Gul to think about, but picious eyes which shifted their at- I laughed and explained that it sorbing excess olive oil). Outpatient Clinics in the Greater also for the entire Islamic world. There are aspects of Islam which are clearly tention from card games (κάρτες), may be attributed to their lifestyle, For the main plate, selections Hartford area. peace-loving and tolerant, but those are unfortunately swept away from pub- the television (τηλεόραση) or from which includes the Mediterranean lic consciousness with the elements of an intolerant past, not to mention acts the daily Greek newspaper, diet. Incidentally, I forgot to men- of violence today. Καθηµερινή, to warily scrutinize us. tion that Aλέκος is an octogenarian. CORRECTION This is not to say that Christians haven’t committed atrocities against Mus- Ultimately, after what seemed like The olive oil rich Mediterranean lims. They certainly have (e.g., the Crusades). We are simply trying to point an eternity, we were eventually ac- diet does not consider all fats un- Due to a glitch in electronic transmission, two letters were published out that the Muslim world needs to try harder to identify with Islam’s loftier knowledged with the traditional healthy. without headlines in last week’s edition. Those headlines were posted values; in the process, people of Christian faith should do the same, as well as greeting, “γεία σου.” Even though total fat may com- with the letters on the National Herald’s website try to achieve greater academic understanding of Islamic culture and history. The main room in the Club con- prise over 40 percent of the tradi- (www.thenationalherald.com). The headline for Dr. Athanasios Atoy- In the end, a model Islamic country is so far proving to be either a utopian sists of several tables neatly tional diet, it is primarily in the natan’s letter is, More Must Be Done to Deal with Pederasty in the idea or, at best, a society with many conflicts. Even so, it’s important to re- arranged around the periphery as form of monounsaturated fats, pri- Church and the headline for Thrasyvoulos Maroulis’ letter is, “AHEPA member that, while people of all faiths can not escape their past, they can still well as a row of windows with marily from olive oil, which have Needs to Afford All its Members with the Right to Vote.” rise above it. closed Venetian blinds facing the been shown to have a significant THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007 VIEWPOINTS 7 LETTER FROM ATHENS The Future in the Past: The Balkans and the Great Elections May Be Too Early, Powers During the 19th Century - A Lot Like Today

But Too Late For Papandreou The post cold World is in a state ceived support for Romania were, and re- economic and political chaos at of flux – terrorism, war, political their struggle for main, primary to Russian home. Howard Jarvis, the fa- cent; cut Greece’s debt in chaos and financial crisis. The emancipation when interests. In the post-Crimean War period, ther of the revolutionary half in two years; and re- Balkans in particular are undergo- it involved the Remarkably, but not the idea of Pan-Slavism began to 1978 tax-cut revolt in versed PASOK’S house- ing a unique transformation in strategic interests of surprising in view of take root among Russian intellectu- California called of-cards fiscal policy which small religious and ethnic the Europeans Russia’s Balkan failures als, politicians and diplomats. One Proposition 13, said he which led the European minorities have staked out their which, invariably, it earlier in the 19th example of this took place in had to take the measure Commission in 2004 to own sovereign states and, in the did. The Greek War Century, Russia did not Bulgaria. Russian consular officials, to the people because declare Greece “impru- process, are transforming the re- of Independence, express an active diplo- serving in the Balkans, regardless of politicians weren’t really dent” and “sloppy,” and gion. for example, was a matic interest in Bulgaria official policy, fraternized with the blind to the notion of ac- note that its declining fis- As this metamorphosis is unfold- near death experi- until very late in the cen- small groups of Bulgarian revolu- knowledging what voters cal position – at a time ing, it is instructive to take a look ence for the tury. Between the last tionaries and openly sympathized wanted, but because when there was 4 percent back and examine how the Great Ottoman Empire. decade of the 18th over the failed uprisings in Niδ “they always have one by ANDY growth annually in the Powers of the 19th Century ad- The reason why the by DR. ANDRE Century and the Great (1841) and in Vidin (1850). For the eye on re-election, and it DABILIS country – could only be dressed the issue of self-determina- Great Powers decid- GEROLYMATOS Eastern Crisis of the next two decade, Russian policy to- never blinks.” That’s caused by government tion and tried to balance it with ed to limit the size 1870’s, the Danubian wards Bulgaria was to discourage something Prime Mini- Special to mismanagement. their strategic interest. The key of the new Greek Special to Principalities, Serbia and any drive for independence. During ster Karamanlis should The National Herald A graduate of Tufts’ players in this century were Great state was so that it The National Herald Greece were the focus of the 1860’s and 1870’s, the Russian think about when he pre- University’s noted Britain, Russia and the Ottoman could not pose a se- Russian diplomatic efforts Government went so far as to pres- pares his re-inaugural speech, after Fletcher School of diplomacy outside Empire, and although more than rious threat to the sultan’s in Southeastern Europe. Later, sure Romanian authorities not to kicking sand in the face of his 90- of Boston, (Papandreou is a graduate 100 years have passed, it are re- European domains. By compromis- Britain and France overshadowed harbor Bulgarian revolutionary pound weakling challenger, PASOK’s of the equally prestigious Amherst markable how many similarities ex- ing on the frontiers of the Greek Russia’s influence on Greece and cheats who used Romanian territo- George Papandreou, on September College in western Massachusetts), its between thee two periods today. state, they were able to suspend the Serbia, while the Russians replaced ry as a base from which to mount 16, four months early. The early call Karamanlis knew the value of pri- The fundamental difference is that Eastern Question for a generation, their policy of pan-Orthodoxy with raids across the Danube and incite has piqued many people, who had to vate education, something he also the United States has replaced the but they could not put the genie Pan-Slavism. insurrection in Bulgaria. Russia fol- cut short their holidays and raised learned at Deree and the American British Empire as the major super- back in the bottle. The Greek expe- Bulgarian national conscious- lowed this policy as late as the questions about whether it was done College of Greece in Athens under power, while Russia continues to rience served as an example to the ness was slow to develop in com- Bulgarian rebellion of 1876. to head off a prosecutor’s imminent another old Boston educational pursue almost the same geopolitical other Balkan peoples, and after parison with Serbian, Greek and Russian reluctance to take a findings into a so-called “bond scan- hand, the school’s President, Jack strategy in the Balkans, which re- 1870, new waves of national deter- Romania nationalism. One consid- more active part in support of dal” which critics claim has plagued Bailey. Maybe they didn’t teach logic volves around the problem of the mination created more Balkan eration was that Bulgaria was the Bulgarian nationalism was further the Government.But without having at Amherst because they certainly Straits. countries. Balkan province closest to the reinforced by the fact that the to worry about re-election this next didn’t teach charisma, and that’s a British policy towards the Ultimately, these new states Ottoman imperial capital, and easi- “young” or radical faction led the term, Karamanlis can actually do big part of Papandreou’s problem – Ottoman Empire in the 19th centu- were not economically or sociologi- ly susceptible to administrative and majority of the Bulgarian revolu- what he said he’d do and discover, as the inability to have people become ry was to prevent the Russians from cally viable, and as soon as circum- political centralization which the tionaries in the mid-1800’s. Some of the American baseball player Dizzy passionate about his beliefs and to controlling the Straits. In the post stances permitted, each one gener- Sublime Porte implemented after the leaders of this organization like Dean once said, “It ain’t braggin’ if follow him. Karamanlis, to ferocious Crimean War period, following the ated a shopping list of irredentist the first wave of national uprisings Khristo Botev and Stephen you can back it up.” The Premier has opposition from the University of destruction of the Russian fleet, claims against the Ottomans and its in Serbia and Greece. Another fac- Stambulov advocated leftist and ni- uttered some wonderful words and Athens faculty, which struggles un- British interests were focused on other neighbors. tor was that Greek control over hilist ideas which they had acquired promises since he succeeded in get- der a 1.5 day workweek (except for the Suez Canal, whose construction In the language of diplomacy, Bulgaria’s ecclesiastical hierarchy, as students in Russia. This hardly ting New Democracy to derail PA- the three-month summer vacation in 1869 meant that the small states have irredentist de- as well as over its cultural, educa- endeared the Bulgarian nationalist SOK three years ago, and has and the two-week Christmas vaca- Mediterranean served as a staging mands, but major powers have se- tional and economic institutions, movement to the Tsar and his min- brought some hope and optimism to tion and the two-week Easter vaca- area for the protection of British as- curity interests: The Romanians de- hindered the emergence of an in- isters, and undoubtedly contributed Greece, which has risen in stature in tion), and students who wanted to sets in Asia. Containment of Russia sired Transylvania; the Serbs want- digenous intellectual and political to the lukewarm policies of the the EU under his watch, but it would sponge off the state for a free educa- was essential in Southeastern ed Kosovo, Bosnia-Herzegovina and elite with ties to the West. Russian Government toward the be terrible to waste the enormous tion for as long as they want, without Europe, but critical in Central Asia, Croatia; the Greeks dreamed of re- Furthermore, although the Bulgarian revolutionary movement potential he hasn’t tapped yet. It’s actually having to study, pushed a re- where the Great Game was waged securing Asia Minor, the Aegean is- Russian Empire was in close prox- in its early stages. Finally, the rare to find a politician who really form through to change that, even if with deadly earnest between the lands, Crete and Macedonia; while imity to Bulgaria, Russian foreign Russian Government was not will- cares, and who doesn’t just go it wasn’t strong enough. That British and Russian Empires. the Bulgarians envisioned an outlet policy inadvertently delayed the ing to support any Balkan liberation through the motions of pretending changed the mindset of those who The French, following their de- to the Aegean through the acquisi- emergence of a Bulgarian liberation movement it did not control. to, and he actually has it within his understand Greece can’t continue to feat in the Franco-Prussian War, tion of Macedonia. The Albanians in movement. Despite the numerous Today, the new Russia is less in- grasp now to leave a mark of great- be the world leader in having its best were more consumed with reac- 1878 inconveniently laid claim to a wars the Russians had waged terested in pan-Slavism than in ness, instead of a footprint in that and brightest flee to foreign schools. quiring Great Power status and the national state whose land mass against the Porte in the second half Eastern Orthodoxy as the means by sand which will disappear. Papandreou apparently doesn’t prospect of a future Franco-German challenged the territorial ambitions of the 19th Century, Russia attempt- which the Balkans, and Greece in NOT A FAIR FIGHT care about the quality of Greece’s conflict, than they were with the of the other Balkan states, but the ed to maintain good relations with particular, can eventually gravitate It’s not even really a fair fight be- universities because he didn’t have Near East. Europeans ignored them until the Ottoman Empire, as well as with to a resurgent Russian Empire. As cause Papandreou, who is basically a to go there, having also studied in Austria-Hungary resisted any 1913. Britain and Austria-Hungary. The events in the Middle East have di- nice guy, is so wooden a figure in Stockholm, where he became fluent change, especially in the Balkans, In effect, the shopping list of his- Russians had suffered a serious mil- minished the influence of the speech and petrified thought that he in Swedish, the famed London which threatened to ignite national- torical territories was, in reality, a itary defeat in the Crimean War, United States, the Balkan countries could make Al Gore look like Howdy School of Economics, and at ist feelings among its multicultural wish list which held few prospects which had left them diplomatically look to Europe for their future, but Doody in action (for Papandreou, Harvard. Those are schools where, if subjects, many of whom were of fulfillment unless each of the isolated. Russian policy in the after- unless the European Union devel- that becomes inaction). He continu- you don’t meet high standards, they linked by religious or ethnic ties to contenders could secure an alliance math of that conflict was to over- ops a military capability, some may ally drags out tired old bromides kick you out to make room for peo- the sultan’s subjects in with one or more of the Great come isolation, but the price of a turn to Russia for protection. This about how to fix what isn’t broken. ple who can. Southeastern Europe. Austria- Powers. The only asset each of the Europe-first policy was little or no will certainly become the case for Even the “bond scandal,” to which While the public has been less Hungary, therefore, counted on the Balkan states could offer to poten- support for Balkan independence countries like Serbia, which stands Karamanlis might have reacted more than captivated by the ongoing cam- Ottomans to keep these ethnic tial allies was strategic location, and struggles. In fact, after Russia’s de- to lose considerably with Kosovo at swiftly, can’t cause a ripple when it paign which started the day groups in the Balkans under con- even this did not become essential feat in the Crimean War, the new the hands of the West. Yet it in the comes out of Papandreou’s mouth, Karamanlis ended PASOK’s 11-con- trol, and to forestall the nightmare to the Great Powers until the end of Russian Foreign Minister, fullness of time, it will be fascinat- and George’s declaration, “We are secutive-year reign, the country’s mi- of new ethnic states on its eastern the 19th Century. Bulgaria was a Alexander Mikhailovich Gorchakov, ing to see whether Turkey or Greece headed for a major victory,” sounds nority parties have served as cata- frontier. case in point. adopted the notion of recuillement will remain allied with the West or as hollow as his promises. If lysts to bring some attention and The Russians, for their part, Bulgaria’s geopolitical proximity as the cornerstone of his policy. This choose a different side. Odds are Papandreou couldn’t make hay over shame to the ruling party and oppo- were still recovering from the to Constantinople and the Straits concept represented Gorchakov’s that, if Turkey is rejected by the the mishandling of the bond scandal, sition. Communist party leader Crimean War and desperately need- still represents a vital concern to recognition of the need to relin- E.U., it will seek out new alliances he can’t make any headway with vot- Aleka Papariga, who never has to ed a means to end their isolation Russia as it did in the 19th Century. quish, at least temporarily, an ag- and may not be unlikely that Russia ers. worry about re-election, has tried to from the Great Powers. In practical During the Yugoslav crises of the gressive foreign policy and redirect will offer Ankara a better strategic But that’s secondary. Many voters convince voters there isn’t a dime’s terms, this meant that Russia had to 1990’s, considerable rhetoric and Russia’s resources and energies to- economic and military partnership. are coming off vacations generally worth of difference between New ignore the Balkan Slavs and spilled ink was expended on ward domestic reforms which had pleased with their improved lot in Democracy and PASOK, and said Christians, and secure the alliance Russia’s ties to the Serbs. But Russia become glaringly evident during Dr. Gerolymatos is Chair of life, but there’s a residual undercur- that, since neither will change its of one or more of the Great Powers could only be counted upon to let the Crimean War. One and a half Hellenic Studies at Simon Fraser rent of resentment that Karamanlis philosophy, voters should change before embarking on adventures in the Serbs down, as was the case in centuries later, the Russians faced University in Vancouver, British has to be wary of because Greeks, their government. Of course, if she Southeastern Europe or against the 1809. Even in 1914, Russian exer- the same dilemma in the Balkans, Columbia and the author of “Red like most people, are living on debt actually won anything, she wouldn’t Ottomans. tions on behalf of Serbia were and once again placed their inter- Acropolis, Black Terror: The and borrowed time, and there’s an know what to do, unlike fellow Effectively, the Balkan communi- linked to European geopolitical ests in Southeastern Europe on hold Greek Civil War and the Origins of expiration date on goodwill. But he Communist Manolis Glezos, 85, run- ties under Ottoman rule only re- considerations. Bulgaria and while they attempted to deal with Soviet-American Rivalry.” was smart enough to know he was ning for Parliament 66 years after he way up in the polls, and he might as and a friend personally tore down well dispense with Papandreou’s an- the Nazi flag over the Acropolis, dis- noyance now, and get it out the way. playing the kind of courage politi- Papandreou has been trotting cians don’t have. around handing out promises like In California 29 years ago, Jarvis A Russian Proposal Definitely Worth Considering candy and headed straight for the set in motion a political earthquake old folks vote when he met with the which reached across the nation and Inconceivable as it may seem, tween the Russian mis- perienced the effects pends and requires cooperation not leadership and employees of three of led to similar tax-cut measures, in- certain people in Washington have sile-tracking radar in- of terrorism, a new only between Russia and the United Greece’s largest state-controlled so- cluding Massachusetts’ Proposition started to talk, behind the scenes, stallations in form of cheap but States, but also practical and effec- cial security funds, promising in- 2.5 two years later, all the way to about the possibility of a new Cold Azerbaijan, or those enormously effective tive cooperation with all countries – creased funding for Greece’s strained New Jersey – this month. More im- War emerging between the United planned to be installed warfare. As Henry including Muslim nations – that are pension system. He also promised to portantly, it shocked people in power States and Russia. The origins of in parts of southern Kissinger recently ac- opposed to the objectives of al double the number of pensioners re- who were used to steamrolling over this debate – still little noticed by Russia, with the knowledged, “many Qaeda or other fanatical groups ceiving a low-income monthly bonus local dissidents. Ronald Reagan put the media – can be traced to the American and NATO global problems cru- which support terrorism. tacked onto their regular monthly that together with his own philoso- United States’ decision to deploy missile defense system cially affecting future Those who have expressed skep- pensions; higher payments for indi- phy to take over the White House. components of a missile defense against Iran. Those fa- stability and progress ticism or opposition to Putin’s pro- viduals receiving low pensions; and Karamanlis has the chance to initiate system in Poland (a small number miliar with the details can best – perhaps on- posal for linking Russian and NATO a minimum 550-euro pension for a his own propositions, instead of just of interceptors) and the Czech of this intriguing pro- ly – be solved by radar systems should not be al- farmer or a 950-euros per month campaigning and trying to stay in of- Republic (a radar site). posal argue it contains American-Russian co- lowed to block its serious considera- pension for a farm sector couple. fice. This is the first deployment of provisions which make by DR. D.G. operation.” In fact, tion or negotiation over its details. Good campaign idea: bribe the el- After he wins, Karamanlis should such a system outside of American its acceptance difficult. KOUSOULAS neither side can bene- Questions regarding the implemen- derly. He didn’t miss the chance to take on other sacred cows in Greece, territory. Russia, which had accept- But President Bush has Special to fit by a revival of a tation of the Russian proposal cer- criticize Karamanlis for a recurring starting with the arsonists who are ed with hardly any protest the uni- not rejected it outright, The National Herald global contest between tainly remain. How could this link- problem, the mishandling of money burning down the country so they lateral withdrawal of the United in spite of the skepti- them. age work in practice, for example? by government institutions, includ- can build on once-forested land, and States in 2002 from the Anti- cism reportedly ex- In practical terms, How would the system respond, in ing deficits in the pension system, open access to those beaches in Ballistic Missile Treaty, has reacted pressed by Vice President Cheney. the Russians should recognize that the event missiles are launched by a which begs the question: Where Athens which are mostly shut off by sharply to this installation of a mis- SERIOUS ERROR the deployment of a missile defense rogue state? How would a retaliato- does Papandreou think he will get illegal nightclubs and private beach- sile defense system in the two NATO It would be a serious error to ig- system, which is still experimental ry response be handled, and by the money to change that and in- es. In one fell swoop he could save countries. nore Putin’s suggestion. Russia and and limited in scope, is not a threat whose forces? Many such technical crease benefits? Karamanlis has had the mountains and greenery, and the The American rationale for de- the United States are no longer in to Russian strategic forces, and that, questions will have to be resolved the courage to push on with reforms beaches too, and be remembered for ploying this system is that it is competition for global leadership as after the next election in the United through serious negotiations. like much-needed privatization of generations instead of forgotten aimed at a possible threat from in the days of the Soviet Union, and States, it may not even be a pressing Such negotiations would also state corporations bloated with bu- when, one day, he too leaves office, Iranian nuclear weapons. The there are areas or issues when their policy. On their part, the Americans disclose how genuine Putin’s pro- reaucratic inertia, and to pay for the replaced by the next politician who Russians challenge this necessity, interests do not coincide, but dis- may have to recognize that Russian posal is – because there are those real cost of providing for people. One had one eye on election. If arguing that Iran does not now and putes of this kind are normal in the leaders’ sensitivity is understand- who reject this proposal as a tactical of his main weaknesses has been not Karamanlis is far-sighted enough to is unlikely to possess such capability relations among nations, especially able in terms of their own domestic maneuver designed to delay, or making sure that his administration see that, he’ll never have to look back for at least another ten years. They in the relations between major pow- need to reassert a sense of national even derail the planned deploy- matches his temperament for re- with 20/20 vision. interpret the American move as an ers with global priorities. The rea- pride after the difficult years follow- ment, while at the same time “un- form; to cut into the corruption still effort to undermine the Russian sons for cooperation nevertheless ing the fall of the Soviet Union. At masking” alleged American designs so prevalent in the government and Mr. Dabilis was the New strategic forces. far outweigh divergent interests. the same time, the United States against the Russian strategic forces. reduce unemployment, which now England editor for United Press Moreover, Russian President Both, Russia and the United may have to limit deployment of the Be that as it may, Putin’s propos- stands at 10 percent. But here it must International in Boston, and a Vladimir Putin, speaking last States face an emerging world with missile defense system to its official- al is not without merit and deserves be noted that he also inherited many staff writer and assistant metro- February in Munich, expressed new and different problems – as ly stated mission to defend against serious consideration. If structured of those problems from PASOK, politan editor at the Boston Globe deep resentment over the advance well as prospects – which no super- potential threats from rogue states in a pragmatic, effective form, the which ruled Greece for 19 of 23 for 17 years before relocating to of NATO military installations clos- power can handle alone. – with the full understanding that proposed linkage of radar systems, years before New Democracy re- Greece. His column is published er to Russia’s borders, in contradic- Globalization, Muslim extremism, such threats are less likely to mate- though seemingly limited in scope, gained power in 2004. weekly in the National Herald. tion to earlier assurances by the global warming, economic interde- rialize, compared to terrorist may be the foundation for a com- THE FACTS Readers interested in contacting Clinton Administration that this pendence and proliferation of threats by small groups of fanatics mon strategy on the nonprolifera- And the facts are, Karamanlis has him can send e-mails to andydab- would not happen. weapons of mass destruction are all which the high-technology missile tion issue, and could possibly lead Reduced inflation to below 3 per- [email protected]. This past summer, President problems which require cooperative defense system is totally incapable to a new framework of cooperation Bush invited the Russian President approaches. In spite of its significant of combating. on other issues which may emerge to his father’s summer home in strides, Russia needs more time to In fact, terrorist threats and vio- in the future. GUEST EDITORIALS Maine, in an effort to explain the overcome decades of mismanage- lent acts have disrupted daily life – The National Herald welcomes manuscripts representing a variety of views reasons for the deployment, and to ment by fanatical or self-serving ide- especially in the transportation and Dr. Kousoulas is professor for publication in its View Points page. They should include the writer’s ease Russian concerns. Putin was ologues, while the United States has communication sectors – and are emeritus of Political Science at name, address, and telephone number and be addressed to the View not completely satisfied by Bush’s become dependent on Chinese impervious to both American and Howard University in Points Editor, The National Herald, 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY explanations and arguments. He at loans to finance its own economy. Russian strategic weapons systems. Washington, DC. He is the author 11101. They can also be faxed to (718) 472-0510 or, preferably, e-mailed least advanced a suggestion, how- The ideological arrogance of the MOST EFFECTIVE WEAPON of several books, notably “The to [email protected]. Due to considerations of space ever, which may not only become so-called neoconservatives which The most effective weapon Life and Times of Constantine the we enforce a strict 1,400-word upper limit. We reserve the right to edit for the basis for a resolution of this dis- led us to the Iraq war should not be against terrorism is shared intelli- Great (1999),” and numerous repetitiveness, diction and syntax. We regret that we are unable to ac- agreement, but also a model for fu- allowed to resurface where gence, surveillance, and detection scholarly articles. Readers are knowledge or return manuscripts, published or unpublished. ture American-Russian coopera- American-Russian relations are of terrorist cells and plans. And the welcome to send their comments tion. He suggested a linkage be- concerned. Both countries have ex- effectiveness of this weapon de- to [email protected]. 8 TRAVEL & TOURISM THE NATIONAL HERALD, AUGUST 25, 2007

Writer Harry Bucknall traveled to 36 islands during a six-month visit to Greece. Both Kefalonia and Rhodes are must-see places for any traveler who wants to visit the Greek islands, he says. Naxos, Amorgos and Karpathos also made his list. Beaches, food, history, monasteries and scenery were among his criteria. The Best of the Best: A Modern Odyssey You Can Explore for a Lifetime

By Harry Bucknall sists of little more than calamari, shape and maneuver into place the The Sunday Telegraph souvlaki, feta-topped salads and massive stone blocks makes you chips. Locals are besotted with wonder at their ancient forebears' In his 1941 book, The Colossus fresh fish, though I confess I had craftsmanship and architectural of Maroussi, Henry Miller said he never shared their passion - until prowess. would never have gone to Greece that is, I visited Paxos. Kosta Vla- BEST FOR GLAMOUR had it not been for a girl named chopoulos's taverna, Taka Taka, The obvious choice for glamour Betty Ryan. For me, it was because which sits behind the main square and partying has to be Mykonos. It of a girl named Christa, though my in Gaios, was opened by his father is like no other island, enthusiasti- 5,000-mile journey from Venice to in the 1960s. Disregarding my cally swapping traditional Greek Istanbul is not a tale of love's pur- protestations, the scorpios (a type conservatism for a liberal dollop of suit, simply that it was my friend of fish) that he cooked for me in a the laissez-faire that you would ex- Christa who egged me on to go. My white wine and shallot sauce was pect in the fleshpots of the journey was about a love of ships, succulent and delicious. My advice Balearics. Mykonos, as Durrell once the sea and islands; an escape in is to take great care of the tsiperu, noted, will rarely let you down. It is search of something more than the Kosta's local hooch, which comes the only place in Greece where se- contented life that everyday Lon- out of an old plastic bottle: it's quin-laden drag queens sprinkle a don could offer. wickedly good for raising a party sense of carnival about the night- Greece had captured my imagi- but the consequences for the morn- time streets, and you can buy every nation since early childhood, ing after, especially if you are trav- shape, size and flavor of condom thanks to a history that would be eling on a hydrofoil, can be devas- imaginable in a shop solely dedicat- the envy of any soap opera, its tating. ed to the purveyance of the finest 3,000-odd islands and a compre- Vegetarians and meat-lovers selection of rubber prophylactics. hensive ferry system criss-crossing need to head to Amorgos, in the Cy- Clubs on Mykonos also host the top the Aegean. I wanted to journey in clades. It is a beautiful island and in DJs from across the world. the old style, get under the skin of the haze seems to hover magically For the connoisseur - or the the country, rather than sit on a above the Aegean. Nikkos Vassalos more subtly minded - the place to beach turning terracotta, studying only buys local organic produce for go is the pretty port of Naoussa on the insides of my eyelids. his taverna, the Pagali Hotel in the Paros. The atmosphere on Naoussa Taking in every island chain and village of Lagada which overlooks is not so brash and overstated as more islands than most would see Aegiali Bay. The fava bean dishes Mykonos, but is every bit as ele- in a lifetime, my journey sparked are not to be missed. Another of gant: the select nightclubs, cozy the interest of everybody I told. Nikos' favorites is katziti, a goat bars and chic tavernas lining the And when I returned home six dish that is marinated overnight in cramped fishing harbor, frequented months later, I was bombarded by cheese, tomato and garlic before Patmos’ historic center (Chora) with the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian (above) and the Cave of by Europe's beautiful people, burst people asking me which was my fa- being left to stew in a slow oven for the Apocalypse were declared World Heritage sites by UNESCO in 2006. with life. By night, the port parties vorite of the 36 islands I visited. An five hours. Served with lentils and well beyond dawn, when the fish- impossible question to answer, zucchini, it is an excellent lunch. ermen turn up for work and sail for since no two islands are the same - BEST FOR MONASTERIES the daily catch. The great gulf of one may have a fabulous beach but Just as France has its châteaux, Naoussa Bay, the no archaeology; another may have so Greece has its monasteries. One 18th-century headquarters of ruins aplenty but no decent restau- of the most impressive is Hozovio- the Russian Fleet of Count Orloff, rants. tissis, a pleasant walk down the has some excellent swimming, Thus, the following are the best steep southern slopes of Amorgos's many secluded coves and a great islands according to what you're Venetian capital, Hora. A rugged beach club at Monastiri for those looking for - be it solitude, beaches, path guides you down the moun- who want to party on. One of the glamour, good food or history. tain from the windmills at the top best spots to enjoy the heady BEST FOR BEACHES of the town; it is the perfect way to Naoussan night is on the roof ter- Schinoussa and Iraklia sit at the work off lunch and the views across race at Tonic, which looks out bottom of the Little Cyclades, south the sea are fantastic. across the town and up to the of Naxos. There is barely 10 min- You need to take trousers if you brightly lit church - this slinky cock- utes by boat between the two is- want to enter the towering, pristine tail bar is run by an Athenian DJ, lands - and yet Iraklia remains a white 10th-century monastery, Nikita, who not only makes a good dusty, forgotten backwater while which clings perilously to the cliffs vodka and tonic, but also mixes a Schinoussa is fast catching up with at the base of Mount Profit Ilias, great set. the over-popular Koufonisia, a boat 1,000 feet above the sea. The BEST FOR SCENERY ride away. Schinoussa is only seven monks will offer you raki (ouzo) to A photo-finish for the most miles long, its intimate scale mak- help with your exertions and louk- amazing scenery must be the is- ing for some delightful walking op- oumis (a sort of Turkish delight) to lands of Cephalonia and Karpathos. portunities. restore your energy. There is a bus Cephalonia, the largest of the Ion- The best beaches, in the north, to take you back up the mountain if ian Islands, sits off the west coast of are reached through a rolling coun- the prospect of the walk is too Greece and lifts itself like a tower- tryside of dry-stone-walled fields, daunting. ing cathedral out of the sea. Byron where donkeys, horses and cattle BEST FOR PEACE AND QUIET lived in the village of Metaxata be- graze quietly and fruit-laden fig If you really want to get away fore joining the Greek War of Inde- trees seem to sprout up convenient- from it all, then you will think I am pendence and becoming involved ly every few yards. My favorite crazy for suggesting you fly to in the siege of Missolonghi on the beach is the remote Fikio, which is Rhodes. Not so crazy, in fact, if you mainland, where he later died of reached by a circuitous route down take the fast boat to Patmos and Mykonos’ Little Venice, above, is located east side of the famous white island’s harbor. It begins from the swamp fever. Although much of the dusty tracks, across meadows and transfer to the tiny island of beach of Alefkantras and arrives at the Old Castle district. island was destroyed by a massive through an olive grove - nothing Marathi. The Emilianos family's ho- earthquake in 1953, it still retains more than a silkily sanded cove tel, Pandeli's was built from scratch grow fat very quickly on Marathi) is headland before returning for an- who built the massive, golden city great charm, and the fishing village with clear, shallow water and space nearly 30 years ago. Pandeli Emi- all homemade. You can walk round other cocktail and a leisurely din- walls that greet those approaching of Assos, tucked away in the crook for no more than a handful of peo- lanos will tell you how everything, the island in less than 40 minutes, ner. the island at night under their of a bay (pictured, lower middle) ple. Not a sunbed in sight. from the beds you sleep on to the so there is little else to do other BEST FOR HISTORY floodlights. The Palace of the and crowned with a sprawling BEST FOR FOOD palm trees you sit under, has been than follow that relaxing mantra of I am an ardent fan of Rhodes, Grand Masters, which was blown Venetian castle, must be one of the People can get high-handed manhandled up the jetty over the eat, sleep and drink. By evening which has the best medieval fortifi- up in the 19th century, was lavishly most stunning vistas in the islands. about Greek food, erroneously years. you may tire of that, so walk the cations in the Aegean. It is hard not rebuilt in the 1930s as a summer On Karpathos, you can reach the thinking that the national diet is- The excellent food, cooked by long way round the island and to marvel at the ingenuity of the retreat for Mussolini and King Em- isolated northern settlement of sues from a deep-fat fryer and con- his wife and daughter (you could watch the dolphins play off the 14th-century Knights Hospitaller manuel III - neither used it. Olympos (pictured on previous The city is, not surprisingly, a page) by boat from the capital, Pi- Unesco World Heritage Site, and gadia (pictured above right). The not only does it give you a feel for town tumbles down the mountain- Crusader life but also, with its side in a riotous cascade of brightly crumbling mosques, hammam and decorated houses; the women still Islamic library, offers a fascinating wear the traditional dress of richly insight into Ottoman culture - the embroidered skirts, waistcoats and Dodecanese islands were part of intricately patterned goatskin the Ottoman Empire until 1912. In boots. I chose to drive; threading the city's archaeological museum, my way over the ridges of the is- you can see - among many other ar- land's spiny back this was one of tifacts - the melted beauty of the the most exhilarating and dramatic marble statue of Aphrodite that journeys I undertook in the whole was fished out of the harbor and six months, as I contoured the celebrated by Lawrence Durrell in peaks of the jagged mountains, ne- his book on post-war life on the is- gotiated rock falls and raced boats land, Reflections on a Marine in the sparkling sea thousands of Venus. feet below me. One of the most spectacular Of course, you could curse and sights, farther down the south rail at me for overlooking the coast, is the Acropolis, which hangs wooded beauty of Samothraki in threateningly over the town of Lin- the north, for not mentioning the dos. St Paul landed here on his way heart that beats in the soul of Delos, to Patara in Turkey. The temple to the abandoned aged statuary that Athena is nearly 2,500 years old litters Naxos or the wines of San- and sits at the heart of the ancient torini. You could spend a lifetime complex, perched impossibly on exploring the archipelago and still the town's massive rocky outcrop. have work to do; I only had six The prominent columns, which can months. be seen for miles, are undergoing major restoration; watching today's The Sunday Telegraph pub- builders struggle and curse as they lished the above on June 17.