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O C V ΓΡΑΦΕΙ ΤΗΝ ΙΣΤΟΡΙΑ Bringing the news ΤΟΥ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΣΜΟΥ to generations of ΑΠΟ ΤΟ 1915 The National Herald Greek Americans A WEEKLY GREEK AMERICAN PUBLICATION c v www.thenationalherald.com VOL. 11, ISSUE 525 November 3, 2007 $1.00 GREECE: 1.75 EURO Menendez: Turkey Using Church In The Armenian Genocide Dallas Asks Resolution as a Pretext $250K From By Evan C. Lambrou a foreign government like Turkey Parishioners Special to The National Herald to, in essence, intervene in our own domestic deliberations as to what NEW YORK – The Turks used the will be our own official position Funds Needed To House Foreign Affairs Committee’s will be on recognizing that geno- recent passage of the Armenian cide,” he said. Finance Defense For Genocide resolution as a pretext to “I mean, how bankrupt are we make incursions into northern Iraq, when we can’t even recognize a The Katinas Lawsuit and have succeeded in intimidating genocide of the past? As someone members of Congress enough to who has heard a fair number of my By Theodore Kalmoukos shy away from putting the resolu- colleagues echo the words ‘never Special to The National Herald tion before the full House, accord- again,’ as it pertains to the Jewish ing to U.S. Senator Robert Menen- Holocaust, I believe that those BOSTON, Mass. – Holy Trinity dez (D-New Jersey). words are hollow unless you start Church in Dallas, Texas is soliciting In an interview, Senator Menen- off by at least acknowledging that a special contributions from its dez, a member of the Senate For- genocide took place, as we face the parishioners, above and beyond eign Relations Committee, told the crisis in Darfur, human rights viola- their regular annual membership, National Herald the U.S. Govern- tions in Myanmar and other un- in order to pay attorneys $250,000 ment has allowed Turkey to inter- foreseen challenges of tomorrow, to defend the parish against a law- fere with its internal policymaking or when we allow a foreign govern- suit which has been filed against processes once too often, and said ment to back us down from a sim- the parish because its former long- the U.S. should stop taking Turkey’s ple, poignant and important histor- time pastor, Nicholas Katinas, al- side so frequently because it is ical remembrance,” he said. legedly engaged in sexual miscon- detrimental to U.S. interests. “That is the type of veto power a duct with minors. “I think Turkey has certainly foreign government should not Mr. Katinas was accused earlier used the Armenian Genocide issue have over our business. It is the AP PHOTO/NIKOLAS GIAKOUMIDIS this year of sexually molesting un- to act in a variety of ways on things type of veto power the President OXI Day Parade derage boys while serving as a that they have wanted to do, and would not let the Chinese Govern- priest at the Holy Trinity Church. certainly one of them was to pursue ment have when he dismissed its A column of tanks parade during an annual military parade in the northern Greek city of Thessaloniki He was finally sent to spiritual the PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party) warnings about attending the re- Sunday, October 28. Oxi Day is a national holiday in Greece, marking the anniversary of the country's re- court this past summer, and the Ec- in northern Iraq. And I think the re- cent Congressional Gold Medal cer- fusal of a 1940 ultimatum made by Italy's Fascist leader Benito Mussolini to allow his forces to enter and umenical Patriarchate of Constan- ality is that it provides the Turks emony for the Dalai Lama (on Oc- occupy Greek territory. The action marked the start of Greece's military participation in World War II. tinople defrocked him to the rank with a dual benefit: one, to stop the tober 17),” he noted. of the laity this past summer. Armenian Genocide resolution, Moreover, Senator Menendez In a letter sent to members of and two, to poise themselves to in- added, the U.S. is morally obligated the parish this past October 5, cur- tervene militarily in northern Iraq. to recognize the Armenian Geno- rent Parish Priest Rev. Christopher That, of course, creates greater cide, and should stop permitting it- Constantinides and Parish Council destabilization for a process in self to be so heavily influenced by Greek Jew Discovers Family Synagogue President George Michael ask the which we are already losing so Turkey and Turkish-interests faithful to contribute $250-1,000 many lives, and expending so much groups. He also said he thinks that By Dimitri Soultogiannis land. His great grandparents, who A few years ago, Mr. Askinazi or more. They express concern national treasure,” Senator Menen- the Armenian Genocide resolution Special to the National Herald settled on the Lower East Side, orig- read a story in the New York Times that, in the event the people who dez said. could still end up getting passed on inally came from the small city of about an almost forgotten syna- filed the lawsuit win judgment, “I have been, since my days in the House Floor. NEW YORK – Are ethnic communi- Ioannina in the northwest of Greece. gogue in Manhattan. He soon real- “the church’s assets (most notably the House, and I continue to be as a “I hope the House will ultimate- ties disappearing throughout Ameri- They soon founded “the Kehila Ke- ized this was the synagogue his par- its land and buildings) could be United States senator, committed ly have a chance to vote on it and ca? Is “tradition” more than just a dosha Janina” synagogue on ents and grandparents were always seized to satisfy the judgment.” to the passage of the Armenian pass it. I believe that opportunity is song from a popular musical? Film- Broome Street. Today it is the only telling him about. Neither Father Constantinides Genocide resolution. It seems sad still going to be there, albeit some- maker Ed Askinazi is trying to give remaining Romaniote synagogue in “I found out about the communi- nor George Michael had returned to me that we, as a country, can not what delayed. I also believe it is some answers in his documentary, the Americas. Ed always wanted to ty when I was 30 years old,” Mr. Ask- the National Herald’s calls at press simply recognize officially what morally incumbent upon us to offi- “The Last Greeks on Broome Street.” learn more about his past and dis- inazi said. “This was the synagogue time. very well-versed scholars, includ- cially recognize the Armenian The documentary focuses on Man- cover this community, “a communi- of my parents and my grandparents. The letter states that, “I know ing some experts on holocaust and Genocide, and Turkey should no hattan’s Lower East Side and the lit- ty determined not to disappear.” However, I never had the chance to that many, if not all, of you have genocide studies, have well docu- longer be permitted to interfere tle known community of Greek Jews “I knew I was Greek, my grand- visit, not once.” heard of the lawsuit that has been mented: namely that there was an with our domestic deliberations. I also known as Romaniotes, with mother was Greek, we used to visit He decided to visit the neighbor- filed against Holy Trinity by three Armenian Genocide; that, in fact, think that’s what it does, and it’s 2,000 years of history, their own lan- her on Sundays,” Mr. Askinazi told hood along with his father who had- individuals who claim they were the former Ottoman Empire itself guage, customs and traditions. TNH. “She would always cook abused by our longtime priest, Fr. had accepted it; and that we allow Continued on page 3 Mr. Askinazi grew up in Long Is- Greek food for us.” Continued on page 2 Nicholas Katinas. “The allegation of the suit is that the leadership of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church knew, or should have known, when Fr. The Observant Nicholas Katinas was hired that he The Tale of the Greek White House Peanut Vendor would engage in abusive conduct. To the best of our knowledge Purist: Stand- By Steve Frangos (and we have heard no evidence to Special to The National Herald the contrary), the parish council members who hired Fr. Nicholas Up Comic In 1910, Steve Vasilakos came to Katinas nearly 30 years ago did the United States from a small vil- lage just outside Sparta. He was 25 Continued on page 4 Angelo years old, with a wife and three children. Vasilakos never saw any of them again, nor any of his many Tsarouchas grandchildren. His life would be spent in Washington, DC selling Christodoulos LOS ANGELES, Calif. – It's only a peanuts and popcorn from a push- matter of time before Americans cart. Living an exceedingly frugal discover the talent of firebrand lifestyle Vasilakos sent all his avail- Back in Athens Greek Canadian Angelo able money home. Vasilakos was Tsarouchas. And when this hap- just one among innumerable Greek pens, a man who unconsciously peddlers of his generation seen After 68 Days channels the cosmic energy of John along streets, beachfronts and Belushi, John Candy, Chris Farley tourist byways all across North and Sam Kinison all in one will rock America from the late 1880’s well By Vasilis Koutsilas them out of their seats! I'm not kid- into the 1960’s. Special to The National Herald ding. Yet Steve Vasilakos, who was He is a genuine anomaly in the never to change professions, was ATHENS – With his sentiments evi- land of oral plagiarists spewing ju- destined to meet presidents, kings, dent on his face and in his words, venile vulgarities to the bored diplomats, financiers and interna- but with his characteristic smile masses. But the question remains - tional statesmen. Not especially and optimism ever present, Arch- can he make Los Angeles laugh and proficient in spoken English, Vasi- bishop Christodoulos of Athens and think at the same time? I believe lakos nonetheless gained national all Greece returned home to Athens undoubtedly so. And with a simple fame and singular status within the AP/BRIAN BAER last Friday after 68 days in Miami, formula. Everything and everyone The White House sits on an 18-acre plot of land that, together with the Ellipse to the south (52 acres total), Fla., where he had gone to seek is funny, but only if we happen to Continued on page 6 is called “President’s Park.” Things are not quite the same since the days of the Greek peanut vendor. treatment for the serious health pay attention. problem he is facing. His latest one-man show at the “I am happy that I returned to Hudson Theater in Los Angeles, CA my Ithaca,” the Archbishop said, entitled “It’s Greek To Me,” was quoting Constantine Cavafy’s fa- well received, garnering him an in- mous poem about homecomings, vitation to return for a few encore Onassis Center Presents Giorgio de Chirico and Greece as soon as he exited the private jet performances. that brought him to Eleftherios Moreover, along with his grow- By Demetris Tsakas temperament of one of the 20th role in defining a different, modern Venizelos Airport in Athens from ing international reputation as a Special to The National Herald century’s most important artists. reality. the United States. stand-up comic comes an impres- Some of de Chirico’s best known The Onassis Center offers this “I am very happy that God has sive and ever expanding film and NEW YORK – The Onassis Center lithographs and drawings, such as description of Chirico. “He believed counted me worthy to once again television career. in New York in collaboration with the ones that he completed for Jean that art should be a constant quest. find myself amongst you; amongst Could Angelo also be the great the Giorgio e Isa de Chirico Foun- Cocteau’s artistic edition “Mytholo- Perceptive, visionary, and subver- the people that have loved me so, Greek hope of comedy? dation in Rome and the Athinais gie,” are also included in this newly sive, he gained a place among the and whom I have equally loved. Of I met up with Angelo on a Mon- Cultural Center in Athens unveiled unveiled exhibition. great artists of the 20th century. course, I am coming here to the day evening at a hipster diner a new art exhibition at Manhattan’s Giorgio de Chirico was born in Through his mysterious universe, homeland to continue the treat- called Fred 62's in Los Feliz Village - Olympic Tower entitled “Giorgio de Volos, Greece in 1888 and began he defined another ideal reality, be- ment that the doctors have recom- an excellent local community hid- Chirico and Greece: Voyage his studies at the Athens Polytech- yond the realm of the apparent, mended, and God willing, there is den under Griffith Park but slowly through Memory.” nic Institute, under the tutelage of bordering the truth of the visible going to be a team of doctors here being gentrified by a new wave of The exhibition’s opening was Greek masters like Iakovidis, Roilos and uniquely formulating his vi- that will oversee things, so that we wealthy young actors and bohemi- held this past Tuesday, and its doors and Volanakis. He continued his sion.” can begin the first stage of treat- an yuppies. opened to the public the next day, studies at the Academy of Fine Arts “Giorgio de Chirico’s familiarity ment on Monday,” the Archbishop THE NATIONAL HERALD: October 31. The exhibition will re- in Munich. Throughout his life de with ancient Greece, as well as with said, amidst a warm welcome from main on display until January 6, Chirico maintained a personal and classical Italian art, supports to a Greek Government officials headed Continued on page 5 2008, and admission is free to all academic interest in Hellenic cul- great degree the development of by Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyan- who attend. ture. His debut in the art world his iconographic universe. In his ni, along with droves of clergymen The exhibition organized by the took place in Paris in 1912. Most work, myth encountered the mod- and laypersons who had gathered To subscribe call: 718.784.5255 Onassis Public Benefit Foundation commonly known for having in- ern age as he sought to bridge time at the airport from early on to see e-mail: contains thirty-five paintings and spired Surrealism, de Chirico’s and history,” notes Exhibition Cura- the Archbishop up close and give [email protected] sculptures as well as twenty-two work also adopted Neo-Baroque in- tor Takis Mavrotas. him an active display of their love lithographs and drawings from the fluences. His bond with ancient “Giorgio de Chirico was revolu- and support. artist's late period. Among the most Greece harmonized with his appre- tionary in his ideas about art. As mentioned above, despite the noteworthy works of art are the oil ciation of classical Italian art. The Throughout his career, he was difficult battle Archbishop paintings View of Athens, Love extremely innovate imagery of the spontaneous, perceptive, unpre- Christodoulos has been giving with Song, The Painter, Two Horses 35 paintings and sculptures fea- dictable, enigmatic, and down-to- his illness for months now, he ap- Against a Marine Background, Heb- tured evoke the artist’s memories earth. Meanwhile, he attempted to peared optimistic and in good spir- domeros, The Lonely Poet, and The and reveal his poetic vision, bridge the conscious with the un- its. “I feel very well, and that is why Hand of God and the Nine Muses. demonstrating the inspiration he TNH ARCHIVES These artworks reveal the artistic found in both cultures as well as his Antonis Papademetriou Continued on page 4 Continued on page 9 ✽ CMYK CMYK ✽ ✽ CMYK CMYK ✽

2 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 Greek Jew Discovers his Family’s Synagogue in NYC GOINGS ON... ■ NOVEMBER 3-11 Beast” and “Chariton’s Choir.” Continued from page 1 ASTORIA – Theatron Inc. cordially Many of the films directors will ap- invites the community to “Ap- pear in person. For more informa- n’t been back for almost 40 years. ateones & Sia! (Crooks & Co!)” a tion, call 212-629-6380. “Everyone in the community new comedy at the theater of the knew my family, my parents and my Hellenic Cultural Center of the ■ NOVEMBER 4 grandparents,” Mr. Askinazi said. Greek Orthodox Archdiocese (Cres- NEW YORK – MidAmerica Produc- The community welcomed him cent Street and Newton Ave.) from tions cordially invites the commu- and showed him his great grandfa- October 20 – November 11 on Fri- nity to “Beethoven and Chopin ther’s seat at the synagogue. They days & Saturdays at 8PM and Sun- Plus,” a concert starring pianist provided him with records of his days 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Star- Aglaia Koras at Weill Recital Hall grandfather’s birth certificate and ring Ioanna Armata, Demetrios (154 West 57th Street) on Sunday, explained their services and asked Bonaros, John Kallianiotis, Stan November 4 at 8:30 PM. Ms. Koras him to join. Kayafas, Ero Lefa, Elena Paloumbis will play works by Beethoven, Today, the synagogue is very and Manos Pantelidis. Tickets are Chopin, Granados, Kalomiris, small; it has approximately 200 offi- $25. For more information, call Rachmaninoff and Schubert. Ms. cial members. 718-721-7610 or e-mail at Koras made her debut at age eleven “On Saturdays usually the elderly [email protected]. with the San Francisco Symphony members show up,” Mr. Askinazi Orchestra. Recognition by her men- said. ■ NOVEMBER 3 tor, Greek pianist Gina Bachauer, The Kehila Kedosha Janina Syna- PORTLAND, Ore.; SEATTLE, Wash. drew the attention of Rudolf gogue is the only synagogue of Jew- – Capella Romana cordially invites Serkin, then Director of the Curtis ish Romaniotes in the western hemi- the community to its 17th Annual Institute of Music in Philadelphia, sphere. Mr. Askinazi is happy be- Season at Saint Mary’s Cathedral in where Ms. Koras studied for several cause he discovered the community Portland, Oregon and Town Hall in years on full scholarship with he was always looking for. “And Seattle, Washington on November Serkin and Mieczyslaw Horszows- that’s how the idea for the documen- 2-3 at 8 PM. Cappella Romana's ki. Tickets are $35; $15 for stu- tary was born,” he said. name refers to the medieval Greek dents and seniors. For more infor- “Can we know where we're going concept of the Roman oikoumene mation call 212-247-7800. if we don't know where we've been?” (inhabited world), which em- said Mr. Askinazi. “After World War TNH/COSTAS BEJ braced Rome and Western Europe, ■ NOVEMBER 8 II, due to suburban migration and as- Top: Ed Askinazi (right) pro- as well as the Byzantine Empire of HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. – The Solon So- similation into greater society, the duced “The Last Greeks on Constantinople ("New Rome") and ciety, the Hellenic cultural Society once-thriving Romaniote communi- Broome Street,” a documentary its Slavic commonwealth. Each of Long Island cordially invites the ty began to disappear. Like so many focusin on Manhattan’s Lower program in some way reflects the community to “Underground Resis- other ethnic cultures that make up East Side and the little known musical, cultural and spiritual her- tance in Occupied Greece 1941- the rich fabric of New York City, this community of Greek Jews also itage of this ecumenical vision. A 1944,” a lecture Helias community lingered in obscurity, known as Romaniotes, who had free pre-concert lecture by Dr. John Doundalakis at the Hellenic Room and nearly vanished. Until now.» 2,000 years of history, their own Chryssavgis, theological consultant of St. Paul’s Cathedral (110 Cathe- When asked about his last name language, customs and tradi- to the "Green Patriarch," His All Ho- dral Avenue) on Thursday, Novem- Askinazi who is a writer, filmmaker tions. Left: The Kehila Kedosha liness Bartholomew, Ecumenical ber 8, at 8 PM. He will discuss the and producer for PBS in Washington, Janina Synagogue, the only syna- Patriarch of Constantinople pre- role both he and his late brother D.C. said, “I get asked that question a gogue of Jewish Romaniotes in cedes each concert at 7:00pm. A played during the Eastern Mediter- lot. Askinazi is the name that they the western hemisphere. panel discussion with audience in- ranean and Balkan campaigns dur- gave to Jewish families who migrat- teraction forms the last part of the ing World War II. The program will ed from Northern Europe.” and New York’s five boroughs. He evening's presentation. Led by begin with refreshments at 7:30 Romaniot Jews are Jews who took shelter in the quiet and comfort Alexander Lingas, Cappella Ro- PM. The program is free and open trace their origin to the Roman Em- of Long Island and in his ability to mana is joined by Medieval Strings to all. For more information call K. pire, more specifically Jews who provide his family the sort of lifestyle (Margriet Tindemans, Shira Kam- Boulukos at 516-868-4092. lived in the eastern part of the Ro- that was far removed from his hum- men, and David Morris) in a vision- man Empire or Byzantium, also ble beginnings. But life has a way of ary new work by Robert Kyr for ■ NOVEMBER 10 known as the “second Rome.” The taking you full-circle. At his son’s re- eight voices, two vielles and viola CHICAGO, Ill. – The American Hel- film highlights Jews who trace their Star of David’s piercing the sky above to’s reach. Together, within the reas- quest, Calvin agreed to assist Mr. da gamba, and percussion. The text lenic Institute Foundation in coop- roots to the inland city of Janina or its’ rooftop,” he said. suring context of a close-knit com- Askinazi with his quest to document is drawn from the Greek Orthodox eration with The World Council of Ioannina in the Greek province of For seven years, Mr. Askinazi fo- munity, they set about mastering the the history of the Jews of Janina and Service for the Environment from Hellenes Abroad (S.A.E.) U.S.A. Epirus. cused his trained eye on this syna- challenges and savoring the joys accompanied him back to the old Mt. Athos and prayers and invoca- Region cordially invites the com- “Unlike their Sephardic counter- gogue and on a community that was America offered. neighborhood – the last repository of tions of indigenous peoples, related munity to the 6th Annual Confer- parts, these Jews were never exiled at once fascinatingly exotic and fa- Together they celebrated life cy- Greek Jewish culture in the Western to living in harmony with nature. ence on the Future of Hellenism in from the Iberian Peninsula, nor did miliar as the blood in his veins. His cle events – Kehilla Kedosha Janina Hemisphere. For more information, call Mark America at Hilton Chicago on No- they hail from Europe like their was a hand-me-down knowledge, Synagogue’s modest space miracu- An unexpected benefit for Mr. Powell at 503-236-8202 or e-mail vember 10. A reception will be held Ashkenazic co-religionists,” Mr. Aski- passed on to him via his father’s Ro- lously accommodating their abun- Askinazi in creating this film was at [email protected]. on November 9 from 6-7:30 PM at nazi said. “Although Greek Jews suf- maniot reminisces. It had the some- dant number; its walls permanently something he realized only in retro- the Hellenic Museum and Cultural fered some measure of persecution what unsatisfying quality of a muf- permeated with the sound of joyous spect. ■ NOVEMBER 3-15 Center (801 West Adams St., 4th at the hands of the Greeks and Turks, fled conversation, heard, but not ful- celebrants and the mournfully be- “I find, as I get older, that I am NEW YORK; FOREST HILLS, N.Y. – Floor). The conference begins at 8 Janina was dealt its’ most devastat- ly experienced. reaved. Yet for many, the richness of longing for community. When I The Hellenic American Chamber of AM Saturday, November 10 with ing blow in World War II when the Ed’s father, Calvin, was born on this shared experience was paltry walked into the sanctuary for the Commerce cordially invites the registration and coffee. It is fol- Nazis deported the entire communi- the Lower East Side. Romaniot cul- compensation for the daily depriva- first time, there was something so community to The New York City lowed by the opening keynote ty of 1,860 to Auschwitz. Only 35 ture cradled, nourished and in- tion, stifling proximity, and unrelent- special about being in that space. I Greek Film Festival at Cinema Vil- speech by Professor Dan Geor- survived.” formed his life; “old country” ethic ing poverty that has classically de- don’t know if I can describe it. I felt lage in Manhattan and Cinemart in gakas, Director, Greek American “Caught in a vise-like architectur- indelibly impressed upon his psyche fined the immigrant experience. It the very strong sense of family con- Forest Hills from Friday, November Studies Project, Center for Byzan- al grip of the two non-descript graffi- and soul. In his youth, the tenements was a place, as Mr. Askinazi de- nection. People greeted me with 2 to Thursday, November 15. Man- tine and Modern Greek Studies, ti-graced buildings flanking it, Ke- of the Romaniot ghetto, circum- scribed, from which “you got out, ‘you’re Calvin’s son, you’re Eddie’s hattan event will run from Novem- Queens College-CUNY on “The hilla Kedosha Janina Synagogue, an scribed by Broome and Allen Streets, and you didn’t look back.” grandson.’ It was magical,” he said. ber 2-8, Forest Hills from Novem- Now and Future of Greek Ameri- unimposing sliver of a building, ap- teemed with newcomers eager to By the time he was twelve years Mr. Askinazi is now looking forward ber 9-15. Twelve films will be ca.” Other topics and sessions will pears, at first, to mirror its adjoining seize the alluring new lifestyle, beck- old, his father successfully put geo- to taking his own kids to the syna- shown including “A Touch of follow. For more information, call neighbors until one notices the two oning to them just beyond the ghet- graphic distance between his family gogue one day. Spice,” “Brides,” “The Heart of the 202-785-8430.

✽ CMYK CMYK ✽ THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 COMMUNITY 3 Menendez: U.S. Should Stop Allowing Turkey to Influence its Policies

Continued from page 1 ministration has been a strong ad- the national security interests of vocate of Turkey’s accession to the the United States? And based upon shameful that there are those who European Union, and has obviously the answers to those questions – are allowing that to happen,” he invested a great deal of our re- whether it involves a bilateral rela- said. sources inside Turkey, both militari- tionship or a multi-lateral relation- Asked whether the Senate For- ly and otherwise, yet when we are ship or a regional relationship – eign Relations Committee is ad- willing to tell other countries in the that’s how I determine, for myself vancing any similar legislation, world to abide by democratic stan- at least, what U.S. policy should be. Senator Menendez said the Senate dards and turn a blind eye when it And it is in the national interests is now waiting to see what ulti- comes to Turkey, that’s not in the and security of the United States to mately happens in the House, but best interests of the United States. have peace and stability in the stressed that other measures can be It’s the wrong policy. History has Balkans; it is in the best interests of taken in the meantime which could taught us when we do that in other the United States to have a stable spur greater Congressional action parts of the world, we pay dearly Aegean; it is in our best interests to on several fronts. for it, and we shouldn’t be reliving have a strong secular democracy “I think that, because the House that history when it comes to inside of Turkey. That doesn’t mean has moved first, and because every- Turkey,” he added. you simply hope for it. You have to thing has to be passed by both Asked what he thinks of the work for it,” he said. House and Senate to ultimately be Turks’ downright refusal to even “It’s also in the national interests signed into law, there may be a re- acknowledge what the rest of the of the United States to have a reuni- luctance to move in the Senate un- world already accepts as historical fied Cyprus. Cyprus can play, and til the House concludes its discus- fact (i.e., that there was an Armen- has played in some respects, a ma- sion. I, personally, am an advocate ian Genocide in Turkey during the jor role where East meets West, and of moving ahead with it because, if First World War, and that the gov- it can play a much bigger role. We we succeed, that could provide the ernment of the Young Turks under marvel at its great economic suc- impetus for more traction in the the Ottoman Empire was responsi- cess. Turkish Cypriots would lead a House. Having said that, there are ble for orchestrating and commit- much better quality of life if they those senators, mainly on the Re- ting the mass murder of more than reunified with the Republic of publican side, who accept the Ad- 1.5 million Armenians), the Sena- Cyprus. At the same time, why do ministration’s point of view and tor pointed out that the Turkey’s we have such a great Turkish mili- would put that resolution to a fili- genocide denial, even more so than tary presence in Cyprus when buster vote, and bring it to the the Armenian American communi- Cyprus poses absolutely no threat higher threshold of having to ac- ty’s efforts to keep the issue at the to Turkey? Why do we have to have quire 60 votes in order to achieve forefront, has actually managed to all those Turkish troops in northern its passage. But I would hope that shed more light on the subject. Cyprus? Removing those troops, or resolutions like mine on the Ecu- “It’s interesting, and in one at least downsizing the Turkish mil- menical Patriarchate, which es- sense ironic, that Turkey’s interven- itary presence, would be a step in pouse religious freedom, could also tion to prevent the Armenian Geno- U.S. Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey addresses some of his constituents about various issues. He the direction towards reconcilia- be a movement forward in the in- cide resolution from coming before has recently introduced resolutions in the United States Senate on FYROM, Cyprus and the Ecumenical Pa- tion, and for Turkey to show that it terim and a way to express our the full House for a vote has actual- triarchate. truly wants to be a democracy in views without intimidation. If we ly generated greater consciousness the family of nations. I believe all can’t assert support for the Ecu- of the Armenian Genocide, as well Hoagland). Not only did he refuse conflagration with war in northern their views, and I give them a very those views are in the national in- menical Patriarchate to be able to as more recognition of that fact to recognize the Armenian Geno- Iraq, and that possibility is raising honest assessment as to why I have terests of the United States, and promote its religious mission, then among average Americans, than cide, but the way he answered serious questions for people. The these views. But let me preface this therefore I hold those views,” he I don’t know how we’ll make much had the resolution had actually questions – both orally and in writ- important thing is that our re- by saying that, while I certainly added. progress on anything else,” he said, passed on its own with little fan- ing, particularly the ones he issued sponse will not just be to give have been supportive of Hellenic Senator Menendez said he is not conceding that the Turkish reaction fare. It just goes to show you how in writing – were simply unaccept- Turkey everything it wants in re- interests, my positions are first and only calling on the U.S. Govern- has, in effect, caused hesitation in committed Turkey is to stopping able in my mind. When I initially turn for not having the Armenian foremost in the national interests ment to change its policies with re- Congress to move forward on the this at any cost. It’s a wonder how a opposed his nomination, I was Genocide resolution succeed. Our and security of the United States. spect to Turkey, but is also trying to Armenian Genocide resolution. country that aspires to being part of alone in holding that up, but then response needs to be an intelligent Greece is a major NATO ally. It in- challenge the State Department’s, “Certainly in the House it has. It the European Union, which has others came to join me, including one, which states that it’s not in vests more in the Balkans than any as well as the Bush Administra- has not been tested in the Senate. clearly-established standards for Majority Leader Harry Reid (D- Turkey’s national interests and se- other country in the world. Stabili- tion’s, tendency to over-accentuate The Administration has pulled out open democratic societies, can ex- Nevada) and Senator Barbara Box- curity to act militarily in that re- ty in the Balkans is incredibly im- Turkey’s strategic significance. all its guns, sending everybody to pect admission to the European er (D-California), so sometimes it gard,” he said. portant to the United States, and so “We love to see consistency in Capitol Hill to say how this would Union when it can not live up to takes leadership to get people to re- Asked whether he has been these views that I adhere to – I be- American foreign policy, of course. be a terrible moment, and a slew of those standards, not only economi- ally think about these issues,” he pressured by any pro-Turkish lieve that freedom and democracy That isn’t always the case with U.S. lobbyists have swarmed Capitol cally, but also in terms of human said. groups due to positions perceived are important, I believe that reli- foreign policy. But what I’m really Hill to deliver the same message. rights and democracy,” he said, “Right now, I have reservations as favorable to Hellenic interests, gious liberty is important – if one calling for is for some of the tradi- It’s interesting that some of those adding that Turkey’s recognition of with the State Department about Senator Menendez said yes, but truly believes in those things, then I tional views held by the State De- lobbyists would not deny that there the atrocities committed against the nominee for the next U.S. am- was also quick to point out that his don’t think you can just suddenly partment as an institution, as well was an Armenian Genocide, but ar- the Armenians could also help lead bassador to Greece (Dan Speck- positions stand on what he believes say, ‘Yes, they are views the United as this Administration over the last gue that the timing was all wrong. to resolution of the Cyprus prob- hard) – not about his personal abil- is best for the United States, and States should uphold and reflect in several years, to be challenged be- Of course, for some, there’s never a lem. ities, but whether he fully under- that those positions just so happen its foreign policy, but when it comes cause I simply don’t believe that good time to recognize the Armen- “Recognizing the atrocities that stands the nature of the issues of to be supportive of Hellenic inter- to Turkey, no,’ ” he said. their view, which puts all our eggs ian Genocide, but that notion were committed under the Ot- FYROM, for example, and what the ests. “For the last 15 years, I have in one basket with Turkey, is in should be rejected,” he said. toman Empire would be a step in means to Greece at a time when we “Yes, I have. I have had con- served on House International Re- America’s best interests. That’s the By threatening to invade north- that direction and, moving beyond are looking for FYROM to be part of stituencies that seemed to have lations Committee and now on the view one often finds when you talk ern Iraq, the Senator was asked, is that, to modern-day circumstances NATO enlargement. Clearly, the been aroused by others, and I’m al- Senate Foreign Relations Commit- to State Department employees Turkey biting the hand that feeds with resolution of the Cyprus is- United States of America would not ways willing to meet with them and tee, and I have always asked two who are not political appointees, it? sue,” he said. want Mexico to now call itself discuss their views. I don’t have dif- fundamental questions when I am I’m afraid, and I believe that cer- “I don’t diminish the value of If Turkey refrained from inter- Texas or the United States of Amer- ferent messages for different audi- deciding what U.S. policy should be tainly this Administration has Turkey’s strategic importance to fering with Cyprus, Senator ica, and to teach its children that ences, and we have the same con- toward any place in the world: largely been on Turkey’s side, and the United States, but I don’t be- Menendez argued, the dispute large swaths of land within the versations. They may not necessari- What is in the national interests of therefore in opposition to the inter- lieve that any alliance should be would either be resolved already or United States really belong to Mex- ly agree with me, but I listen to the United States, and what is in ests of opposing views,” he said. blind. I did not support the war in be well on its way to being re- ico. In essence, that’s what’s hap- Iraq from the very beginning, and I solved, but the Turkish military ma- pening in FYROM which some sug- gest is simply a question of the name. Those in FYROM would call themselves citizens of the ‘Republic of Macedonia,’ while they teach school children false history and make claims that are extra-territor- ial, which would affect Greece as a sovereign country. How would the United States react under such cir- cumstances? That’s what we should be thinking about when we’re looking at Greece, and how Greece is going to react under such circumstances. We must have nego- tiations that lead to the acceptance of a name that all can live with, and the Greek Government seems to me to be very willing to move in a di- rection that accepts a solution that would provide for a suitable name for FYROM and, at the same time, not impose upon the sensibilities and sovereignty of the Hellenic Re- public,” he said. “It just seems to me to be that, with these issues, sometimes one must provide the necessary leader- ship to crystallize for members what some people trivialize as ‘what’s the big deal about a name; what’s the big deal about recogniz- ing something that happened early in the last century.’ Well, it’s impor- tant. I think that there’s an increas- ing body of knowledge in the Sen- ate, and certainly Turkey’s latest ac- tions, as they relate to northern Iraq and a few other things, have members asking whether this a re- U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-New Jersey) lationship that should really con- tinue to go unquestioned, as some like to remind my Republican chine remains an obstacle to have suggested. And I think we’re friends, that the reality is, it was progress on the issue. moving in the direction in which Turkey that rejected the Bush Ad- “Greek and Turkish Cypriots there will be many more voices like ministration’s initial attempts at in- should be the ones negotiating with mine raising questions; offering a vading Iraq through southeastern each other for a just resolution to different view; and creating a Turkey, and to have access to the the division of Cyprus. But the healthy degree of skepticism,” Sen- necessary airspace and passage (to Turkish military still has an incredi- ator Menendez said. open a northern front); it is Turkey ble amount of say inside of Turkey He also said he is seeing a grow- that is today on the verge of ex- itself, and the fact that the Turkish ing number of senators who are panding the conflict by talking Government still sends people from starting to ask more questions, and about incursions into Iraq; it is the Turkish mainland to populate that voices like his create a “ripple Turkey that suppresses the reli- northern Cyprus speaks volumes effect” which eventually reach fel- gious freedom of the Ecumenical about Turkey’s interventionism. We low senators, as well as House Patriarchate to exercise its spiritual should focus on native Greek and members. duties on behalf of millions of Turkish Cypriots, who could easily “I certainly do see that, and I Greek Orthodox Christians live side by side, and could eventu- think that, when I held up the nom- throughout the world; it is Turkey ally achieve reconciliation, but un- ination of the proposed U.S. am- that still suppresses its journalists, fortunately, those aren’t the people bassador to Armenia, I had many and has the stain of those who have at the negotiating table,” he said. colleagues, both on the Foreign Re- died like Hrant Dink. So I think our What is the sense of the Senate lations Committee and others, ask history is replete with lessons that, about the Armenian Genocide reso- me why, and when I explained my when we believe a country is so im- lution, the Turkish Government’s reasons to them and went through portant to us – strictly in a security ongoing oppression of the Ecu- the whole process, it helped crystal- context – we turn our eyes and at- menical Patriarchate and the Mace- lize in their minds why this was so tention away from the types of donia name dispute between important – that this was much, problems like those I just de- Greece and FYROM, the Senator much more than what some had scribed, and we then become will- was asked? tried to trivialize – and that sort of ing to mute our voices, and end up “The Senate needs leadership to effort creates a chain reaction, a facing dire consequences as a result push ahead and crystallize for ripple effect. And I think, certainly of that,” he said. members the choices that need to as it relates to Turkey right now, “Certainly there has been no- be made. That’s why I held up the and with the United States facing body stronger in supporting Turkey President’s former nominee for am- such a terrible set of circumstances than the United States. This Ad- bassador to Armenia (Richard in Iraq, the last thing we need is a 4 COMMUNITY THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 Dallas Parish Needs $250K for Lawsuit

Continued from page 1 tached to the letter indicating the fidence as pastor of Holy Trinity be- amounts of the contribution, stat- cause he would again be allowed nothing wrong, and had no reason ing that, “in addition to my faithful unsupervised access to boys… in to be suspicious of him.” stewardship giving, I commit join- the Orthodox community (pg. 4)… Father Constantinides and Mr. ing together with other parish- Equally morally repugnant, they Michael inform members of the ioners to give additional funds to have remained mute, and thus con- parish that there are few choices in help pay the expenses associated sensual, encouraging blind-faith the matter. with the lawsuit against Holy Trini- supporters of their pedophile priest “We as a church have only one ty. I understand that if more money to intimidate and ostracize the in- choice to make: that is to vigorous- is received than the cost to defend nocent and injured (pg. 13)… ly defend ourselves, for two rea- the church in this lawsuit, the un- Plaintiffs herein have been subject- sons: 1) If the people who brought used portion of my gift will be ed to continual debilitating mental this lawsuit are allowed to win a available to be refunded to me up- and emotional duress due to in- judgment, the church’s assets on my request.” juries they suffered at the hands of (most notably its land and build- POSSIBLE THIRD VICTIM Katinas (pg. 28).” ings) could be seized to satisfy the The original lawsuit, filed this The amended petition identifies judgment. 2) The allegations past April 27, identifies two plain- Does I as a “needy altar boy (Pg. against the church are untrue. If tiffs: John Doe I and John Doe II. It 5),” and Doe II as a “mentally chal- they go unanswered, the people was amended this past June 13, lenged altar boy (pg. 6).” who brought this action will be al- and has identified a third: John It also characterizes the alleged lowed to tarnish the sacred reputa- Doe III. sexual assault of Doe III as a “Hal- tion of our church without justifica- The amended petition (Cause loween Trick (pg. 7),” and de- TNH/COSTAS BEJ tion.” No. 0703807D) alleges, “Defen- scribes an encounter on Halloween Angeliki Frangou, Chairperson and CEO of Navios Maritime Holdings Inc., is shown at the podium, The letter urges to faithful to dant Katinas, before coming to night 1981, when Doe III was just while members and officials of the Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce are pictured listening contribute as much as possible: Holy Trinity, and while a Greek Or- 15 years of age: “After several min- to her speech attentatively. “We must do everything we possi- thodox priest at Assumption utes, Katinas told the other boys to bly can to vindicate the Church,” Church (in Olympia Fields, Illi- leave because he needed to have a adding that, at this point, the nois), had demonstrated a psycho- ‘private’ conversation with Doe III. church’s budget does not make pro- sexual disorder characterized by an After they left, Katinas closed and visions for a lawsuit of such magni- abnormal, impulsive sexual attrac- locked the door. He then sat on the HACC Names First Woman Person of the Year tude, and noting that the other par- tion to adolescent boys. Plaintiffs bed (next to Doe III)… After Kati- ties being sued are taking steps to further allege that defendants nas finished with Doe III, he… By Demetris Tsakas about HACC’s efforts and expressed leading figure in the shipping indus- defend themselves: “Unfortunately, knew, or should have known, of turned on the light and left the Special to The National Herald his happiness over the large event try. Past HACC President Robert our budget does not include the Katinas’ sexual proclivities and mis- room without saying a word. Doe turnount, as well as the contribu- Shaw, who introduced the evening’s money it will take to defend our conduct prior to the abuses com- III felt he, himself, may have been NEW YORK – The Hellenic Ameri- tions that have been made for the honoree, said that “there is no per- church. Fr. Nicholas Katinas, who plained of herein. These defen- at fault. His mother picked up him can Chamber of Commerce named dinner dance’s commemorative al- son more deserving of this award,” has also been sued, is taking the re- dants also knew, or should have and his brother about ten minutes Angeliki Frangou, Chairperson and bum. and focused on the role of family sponsibility for his own defense. known, that Katinas’ manifest psy- later. The child buried the secret CEO of Navios Maritime Holdings Mr. Stratakis called the choice tradition and Greek dynamism in The Archdiocese, which has also chosexual disorder rendered him and told no one (pg. 8).” Inc. its 2007 Person of the Year dur- for the 2007 Person of the Year an Ms. Frangou’s career. been sued, is taking the responsibil- unfit for a position of trust and con- ing its 59th Annual Dinner Dance easy one, because this year’s hon- Upon accepting her award, Ms. ity for its own defense. The Metrop- held at the Metropolitan Club of oree personifies all the goals set by Frangou spoke about her Greek her- olis of Denver, which has also been New York on Friday, October 19, HACC. During his speech, he went itage with great pride, and noted sued, is also taking the responsibili- 2007. on to talk about HACC’s activities that the strong maritime tradition ty for its defense. Likewise, our This award is the highest honor and called attention to the annual in the island of Chios played an im- Holy Trinity Church must find a bestowed by HACC. This award is Shipping Conference being jointly portant role in the family business way lo defend itself.” bestowed on outstanding members organized this coming February by and her personal career. The letter also appeals to family- of the Greek American Community, the Hellenic and Norwegian-Ameri- She went on to speak about the oriented sensibilities: “Families and was first established in 1953 to can Chambers of Commerce, as well role of the maritime industry in to- chip in to save their own in times of recognize and honor the contribu- as recent events successfully orga- day’s world, and stressed that glob- crisis, and as a Church family, that tions of individuals who embrace nized by HACC including “The Fu- alization has forced the mass media is what we must do. We need each HACC’s ideals and contribute to the ture of Real Estate Market.” He also to turn their attention to shipping, other now more than ever.” advancement of commercial rela- cited the events HACC collaborated where Greeks play a leading role, At the same time, they inform tions and dealings between Greece on with the Hellenic-American possessing 20% of the world’s com- parishioners that lawyers have al- and the United States. Coinciden- Medical Society of New York, the mercial fleet. ready been hired: “Holy Trinity has tally, Ms. Frangou’s father, Captain Hellenic American Bankers Associa- Finally, this year’s honoree said found and hired a team of attor- Nikolaos Frangos, was honored tion, the Hellenic Lawyers Associa- that she considered herself privi- neys, Fletcher & Springer LLP, who with the exact same award ten tion, the Hellenic American Techni- leged for having been able to study are experienced in cases like this years earlier, as mentioned in the cal Society, the Holy Trinity Cathe- at U.S. universities and graduate one. They agreed to take on Holy addresses made by HACC President dral Center Cultural Committee. from Columbia University. Trinity’s defense for a relatively John Stratakis and Board of Direc- Mr. Stratakis encouraged the au- HACC was established in 1947, small initial payment. They are tors Chairman Andre Gregory. This dience to attend the Greek film fes- for the purpose of promoting and working hard to prove that Holy is the first time that the award has tival that will take place during the strengthening the economic and Trinity did nothing wrong, and to ever been given to two members of first two weeks of November in both cultural ties between the United extricate our church from the law- the same family. Manhattan and Queens, and as- States of America and Greece. Since suit as soon as possible. However, Over 300 Greek American busi- sured them that all proceeds would that time, the organization has they can not keep working unless nessmen and HACC members and go to support the fire-stricken vic- grown and its scope has broadened they receive payment for their ser- supporters were in attendance, tims of the recent deadly wildfires the services it offers to its members vices,” adding that “a realistic esti- along with U.S. Congressman John that struck Western Greece and Eu- and its networks. It has also bol- mate of the amount needed for Sarbanes from Maryland, Greece’s boea. stered its collaboration with other Holy Trinity to defend and resolve Ambassador to the United Nations HACC Board of Directors Chair- Hellenic-American organizations. this matter is $250,000. If every Andreas Mourikis, Greece’s Consul man and past President Andre Gre- Through the systematic efforts of parish family contributes seriously General in New York Catherine gory noted his great pleasure that HACC’s Board of Directors and com- to this effort, we can reach that Bouras, and the Director of the Captain Nikolaos Frangos, the fa- mittees, along with the various goal. The need is urgent. We must Greece Trade Office in New York ther of this year’s honoree, was hon- events that they hold regularly, they pay our legal bills immediately in Nikolaos Belias. ored exactly ten years ago by his have succeeded in significantly in- order to continue the defense of Rev. Christopher Constantinides has asked his parishioners to fork During his opening address, Or- own father, Basil Gregory, who was creasing their membership and our church.” out $250,000 to pay lawyers to defend Holy Trinity Church in Dallas ganizing Committee Chairman serving as President at the time. Mr. achieving a much-desired rejuvena- A contribution form was at- against a lawsuit alleging his predecessor sexually abused minors. LeRoy Lambert spoke in detail Gregory also called Ms. Frangou a tion within the HACC. Onassis Center Presents Giorgio de Chirico and Greece: Voyage Through Memory

Continued from page 1 Novecento. As de Chiroco’s artistic career progressed, his Neo-Baroque conscious, the present with the art, with its return to tradition, left past, the reality with the ideal. The the art world divided and drew starting point of his creations was heavy criticism. The Onassis Cen- his inner discourse with his memo- ter’s Art Exhibition “Giorgio de ries and senses. His art was an end- Chirico and Greece: Voyage less quest; an inscrutable journey through Memory” captures the through the universe; an effort to thought of this major artist as it re- give shape to a vision that eludes lates to Greek tradition, history, categorization and convention. No philosophy and aesthetics. wonder he was called the god of In February 2008, the Onassis the dreamlike; magician of the Center is set to unveil another in- myth. Mystery and dream are the teresting art exhibition. This cornerstones of Giorgio de Chirico’s promising exhibition, dedicated to semantics and supernatural sym- the Minoan Civilization, will in- bolism. His art does not merely aim clude 260 artifacts from the Muse- to reproduce the visible but con- um of Crete which will be leaving jures an image from non-existence Greece to be displayed abroad for into being. Mystery and dream are the first time ever. the key notion of De Chirico’s se- As with all the previous exhibi- mantics and metaphysics, since his tions, this undertaking is organized visionary preposition goes deep in- by the Alexander S. Onassis Public to the intuition of mystery to reveal Benefit Foundation in conjunction another world of images, as if the with Greece’s Ministry of Culture. artist was trying to give his space Among others, the Museum of Her- the rhythm of the universe. His art aklion will donate 100 display is not just targeting to the recre- items, the Museum of Rethymnon ation of the visible elements, but will donate 26 items, the Museum transfers visual facts from a state of of Chania will donate 28 items, the non-existence to existence.” Mr. Museum of Agios Nikolaos will do- TNH/COSTAS BEJ Mavrotas remarks. nate 39 items, the Museum of Sitea ABOVE: Onassis Center President Anthony Papadimitriou (left at De Chirico was a non-conformist will donate 20 items, the Museum podium) welcomes attendees to “Giorgio de Chirico and Greece: Voy- of the 20th century and treated art of Kissamos will donate 4 items, age through Memory” an exhibition at Manhattan's Olympic Tower on as an area of perpetual contempla- and the Museum of Hierapetra will Monday, October 31, 2007. tion of different viewpoints. The donate 3 items. RIGHT: Mr. Papadimitriou (left) talks to reporters during the unveil- paintings he completed during his The upcoming exhibition on Mi- ing of the exhibition at Manhattan's Olympic Tower. The Onassis Cen- metaphysical period (1911-1918) noan Civilization aims to display ter is collaborating with the Giorgio e Isa de Chirico Foundation in undeniably influenced the develop- the achievements of the Minoan Rome and the Athinais Cultural Center in Athens on the exhibition at ment of many artistic schools, in- Civilization as the first truly com- Manhattan's Olympic Tower that will remain on display until January cluding Surrealism, Valori Plastici, plete civilization to develop on Eu- 6, 2008. Admission is free to all who attend.

•ANNOUNCEMENT• Don’t miss... HERA SAMBAZIOTIS, MD, MPH, FACOG is pleased to announce to the communities The National Herald’s of Queens and Long Island the opening of her practice. She is available for consultation at the following addresses: ΒAYSIDE LAKE SUCCESS 44-01 Francis Lewis Boulevard 2800 Marcus Avenue, Suite 204 Bayside, NY 11361 Lake Success, NY 11042 ropean soil. The beginnings of the al vases, bronze weaponry, tools Tel. 718-352-1400 Tel. 516-437-2020 • Fax 516-437-2019 Greek Minoan Civilization can be traced and figurines, wall paintings, offer- around 3500 B.C. with the end of ings, inscribed tablets, tools, pots The practice offers the following: Food &Wine the Neolithic area. It is believed to and other cooking vessels, traces of • Obstetrical and Gynecologic Ultrasound •3D and 4D imaging have lasted until 1100 B.C., which food preparation, bone and ivory • Gynecologic surgery •HPV testing •HPV vaccine Special Insert also marks the end of the Myce- handicrafts, and seals, all of which • Family Planning/Contraception •Evaluation & Treatment of Infertility nean Civilization. help create a clearer picture of Mi- • Preconception Counseling & Complete Obstetrical Care, etc… This exhibition includes gold noan Civilization. • Appointments preferred jewelry, signets, amphoras, clay Numerous finds from Minoan • Convenient office hours, including evenings and Saturdays, available reliquaries, simple vases made pri- palaces, manors, settlements, and • Most insurances accepted Coming in November... or to the introduction of the pot- cemeteries will complement this ter’s wheel, ornate stone ceremoni- significant exhibition. THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 FEATURE 5 The Observant Purist - An Interview With Stand-Up Comic Angelo Tsarouchas

Continued from page 1 know? Not to mention, I per- TSAROUCHAS: I'm really fortu- TNH: Why were you not in “My formed a stand-up routine part- nate. In the last few years I've Big Fat Greek Wedding?” While watching your performance time in the evenings at Yuk-Yuk’s worked on ten feature films and TSAROUCHAS: I auditioned for in “It’s Greek To Me,” I realized that comedy clubs in Canada. had some good character roles. I the role of Cousin Angelo. I read you give substance to the mere Toward the end of the marriage, was in “The Prince and Me” with the script a year before and wanted stereotypical caricatures famously once I realized that it wasn't work- Julia Stiles and got to play a restau- to do it. My mom would have been presented in the film “My Big Fat ing out, I used my remaining re- rant owner, played a cab driver in proud. Actually, I was on hold for Greek Wedding.” Tell me about the sources and moved to Toronto. “The Recruit” with Al Pacino and the part. But in the end, I didn't get show. There was an agent in Montreal Colin Farrell, a thug in “Avenging it. The Casting Director said I was- TSAROUCHAS: It's the strange- that I knew through a friend of a Angelo” with Sylvester Stallone n't Greek looking enough. Here I ness of being Greek, which I enjoy. friend. He kept looking at me and and Anthony Quinn and in “The am, already three words in the title, The unbearable heaviness of being said that I would be good for some Score” with Robert De Niro and and that's still not good enough. Greek in the Western World. TV stuff. This was in 1996. A month Marlon Brando and most recently a TNH: You also were able to TNH: By Milan Kunderakis! later - I decided to go for an audi- reporter in “Cinderella Man” with work with the late Anthony Quinn. TSAROUCHAS: A friend of tion in Montreal - this was on a Russell Crowe. TSAROUCHAS: We were work- mine said that there is a metaphor show called “The Mystery Files of TNH: So you met Brando? ing on “Avenging Angelo” together in the unbearable heaviness of be- Shelby Woo.” Pat Morita from “The TSAROUCHAS: Since we are on in Toronto. One day, I came home ing Greek. There was a period of Karate Kid” fame was in this. I the topic of food. We were in Mon- from the set and my mom asked time for me when it was such a nailed my first audition and got the treal and it was a very hot day. what we did today. I replied that we chore to be two people at once. part. I ended up doing 12 episodes Brando comes over and says, "You had shot a scene with Anthony Then suddenly I realized that this is of the show. Talk about a fluke. Not look like you’re an eater. Write Quinn. Mom said, "You shot Zor- who I am, I just accepted it. And as realizing, now living in LA, how re- down some places to eat, good ba?" a result came the show “It’s All markable this accomplishment re- restaurants. " I asked him if he liked I had lunch with him once. He Greek To Me.” ally was. Greek food and he responded posi- spoke Greek fluently and talked to TNH: Was there a single mo- TNH: I'm surprised you were tively and went on about spending me about his time in Greece. He ment that made you want to do not in the Canadian equivalent of time in Greece. He also leaned even owned land there. comedy? Saturday Night Live (CSTV)? close to me and said, "If anyone Another Greek-American direc- TSAROUCHAS: You know, both TSAROUCHAS: It kind of went asks you, please keep it between tor that was great on the set was of my parents are Greek immi- backwards, because there are al- us." Can you imagine? The Godfa- Nick Cassavetes. His Greek was ex- grants. My Mom is from Lesbos ways references made to me that I ther himself asking me where to cellent. From what he told me, his (Mitilini) and my dad is from Spar- remind people of Chris Farley when eat! father, legendary director John ta. Dad immigrated to Canada be- he gets ranting, even John Candy I told him about a place called Cassavetes would send him to cause the weather is so similar to and John Belushi. I like those guys, Filios in Montreal. Greece every summer. I was work- Greece! My father arrived to Cana- but they're all dead. I want to stay TNH: Did you accompany him? ing on John Q - excellent cast. I was da in 1949 at a young age and went alive. Plus, I pursued more of the TSAROUCHAS: No, he had a playing a cop. One day to mess with back to Greece when my grandfa- stand-up route as opposed to the driver who took him. I called the the actors, he asked me to talk to ther passed away. While he was improv of Second City. I like the restaurant and told them that he him in Greek about anything. It re- there he met and married my moth- style better. I guess that Canadians ally bothered Anne Heche, who er. I was born in Montreal, Canada have a better way of laughing at freaked out because she thought and raised in Ottawa, Ontario. The America. We are like America Lite. that we were talking about her. He first time I started realizing comedy Look, these guys were all remark- loved to get a rise out of actors this was from working at my dad's diner ably funny - but I think a stand-up way. in Ottawa. We started getting comedian has the benefit of obtain- TNH: I've heard you are also bored and made fun of the cus- ing crucial life experiences that are planning to star in a feature that tomers. You know, a regular would so valuable. I studied a lot as an ac- you've written. come in and we'd say things like, tor also. TSAROUCHAS: It's funny. I got "Does your wife know you're out of TNH: Who did you study with? the idea on the set of “Rub and Tug” the house?" Whatever the case may TSAROUCHAS: Actors that a movie about the sex industry. The have been. I was about twelve at work in Toronto, The Theatre title was originally called “Stand the time. And heaven forbid that Works in Ottawa (University of Ot- Up Sumo.” But, I realized “It’s we would hang out with the rest of tawa) and with Vincent Guastafer- Greek To Me” was a better title. the Canadezakia. We had to work ro in LA, who studied with David Shakespeare coined the phrase. It's and it was good. In high school, I Mamet. He focused on a physical about a struggling, Greek comic was always pulling pranks and jok- style of acting. It is projected by Comedian Angelo Tsarouchas has acted in movies with actors such as who impersonates a Sumo Wrest- ing around. One of my friends in how one looks and presents the Robert De Niro, Marlon Brando and Anthony Quinn. He is starring in ing champion to win the love of a class dared me to do variety show. I material. With Vinnie it's been his one one-man comedy show at the Hudson Theater in Los Angeles Japanese tour guide. Right now I didn't have many jokes, so I did good. This guy is a seasoned actor - called, “It’s Greek To Me.” would prefer to film this in Canada. some Rodney Dangerfield and a lit- he's been on CSI and all kinds of TNH: Things are happening for tle Richard Pryor. But it was during stuff, big movies with Joe Manteg- short stint working for a porn dis- cook in Greek, which was derogato- you! What do you dislike most this process when I was writing na like Liberty Heights. I like his tributor. He appears to be a goth ry and alluded to my weight. He about H-wood? some jokes about my school and method because he's about taking style punk rocker, but upon a few could have been Arabic, but it was TSAROUCHAS: Traffic is terri- teachers that I realized that I want- the big chance. To me, it's better to conversations we realize that he is the way he said it, which gave it ble. I can't get enough souvlaki in ed to be a comic. I got hooked on it. go big and pull back rather than drug-free and a pretty intelligent away. When I called him on it, he this town. And that's how it started for me - it never showing your potential. But, person who rarely goes out. gave me look and asked where I TNH: Any words of advice? started in high school. at the end of the day it’s a hard call. TNH: How does a comic accu- was from. I said Canada. Then he was coming at 8pm. And he TSAROUCHAS: As an actor you TNH: What did your dad do for Improv people have the advantage rately read his/her audience? said, "come here", and then con- showed up! The Greeks were like must have patience in L.A. - every- a living? because they interact more with TSAROUCHAS: Greeks are fun- fessed. Of course, he let me eat for “Wow!” one is here. TSAROUCHAS: He was in the people, versus stand-ups where it's ny without knowing it. I don't have free. TNH: Any interesting stories on But, things have been good. I've food business. He had this mobile just you, the microphone, and the to explain anything - I can use a few TNH: Is it me or are Greeks bru- the set of “The Score?” done stand-up in the best night- canteen business. You know, trucks crowd. Plus, many stand-ups have Greek words and they pick it up tal toward obese people? TSAROUCHAS: Remember clubs in L.A. and am pretty well serving construction sites, that sort problems with transitioning into quickly. I guess people like the fact TSAROUCHAS: Totally! Yes, Frank Oz, the director of the film known in South Africa, England, of thing. And then he was able to film and working with other peo- that I don't use profanity except and then they feed you! My prob- (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and all Canada and now it's time to break open the Steer Burger Drive-in lo- ple. In improv, you must trust if I maybe an occasional m---ka or sk-- lem is I like everything in excess. I the Muppet movies)? Well, one into the U.S. market. The website is cated in Ottawa. That's where I give you a line, you'll give one back. a which if you watch Greek TV late- don't do drugs, don't smoke ciga- time I heard Brando tell him, "Hey working and gives a pretty good learned about the taste of ham- Comics are not so trustworthy all ly it's like saying hello and good- rettes, don't drink. But I like Cuban Frank, I'm not one of your Muppets breakdown on what I'm up to - burgers. I went to high school in the time. bye. cigars and I do like food. I guess we that you can put your hand up my www.funnygreek.com. Ottawa at Ridgemont High school. TNH: I am fascinated with the TNH: How have Americans re- all have a vice somewhere. [behind] to make me talk." He al- TNH: You reading anything? I received a Grade 13 education psychology of the comic. How do sponded to the show? TNH: Obviously your weight most drove Frank to drink. He's the TSAROUCHAS: I like to read and after school drove across Cana- you prepare? TSAROUCHAS: When I do a and demeanor have added to your only actor I've ever seen tell a direc- Pooh's Great Adventure. Reading da with a friend of mine in a '69 TSAROHCAS: When I do main- show for them, I pick out what is look and general shtick. Do you tor, "That's the cut", and nobody many bios, The Da Vinci Code and Pontiac convertible, smoked pot stream comedy I try to see from the obvious and put myself in their ever think that if you lost weight question it. I never saw this again. Life of Pi - more into the spiritual and at nineteen years of age went audience perspective. I'm a big guy brain. I'll talk about the length of things might be different? It was very surreal. But, he was a stuff lately. I'm starting to sound to Vancouver for the first time and - 365 pounds - the audience no- my name, why we do the things we TSAROUCHAS: I prefer to be nice guy. He went up to me one day like I'm from L.A. worked professionally doing come- tices this right away. So, I try to talk do; generally I ask the same types healthy and big! I travel a lot, it’s and said that I seemed to enjoy TNH: Music? dy at a place called Punch Lines. about this to help them identify of questions they would ask them- the lifestyle, but in the end there is what I was doing. I replied that I TSAROUCHAS: Billy Joel, the TNH: How old are you now? with me better. Also, I tend to look selves about Greek people. And this no excuse. I must say that my mom was. He said, "Good, always enjoy Ramones. The best concert that I TSAROUCHAS: Forty. And it's at things differently. I'm not PC, is how they relate to Greeks. They can't stop cooking. She can whip up what you do." I also watched him ever went to was Iggy Pop, Ra- funny because back then my mom and I love women to a fault, smoke learn something about Greeks. Of something anytime and anyplace. work and he did not remember mones, Pretenders in Montreal. I asked me if I was going to college. cigars, I'm outspoken. These are a course, during the show I would She is an excellent chef. lines, so he would pin them on your like some Greek music too. No, I said that I was going to take a lot of things people aren't or can't point out things like how we in- TNH: Television career? body parts. TNH: Thanks so much! year off. She was like, "What?" be because of their jobs. Comics vented democracy, the Olympic Comedy has only come of age in the have the opportunity to do all this games, good food. There's such a last 10 years. Try telling your par- stuff and still get paid for it. To me, hint of narcissism to it. But that's ents that you want to be a comedi- there is no better job in the world. ok. an - especially if you are Greek. TNH: What's your secret? TNH: Would your show work in Thankfully, my parents were sup- TSAROUCHAS: You have to be Greece? portive (mom is quite funny her- respectful of your surroundings. A TSAROUCHAS: I don't think it self). But, when I came back home, question everyone asks is, "Where would. The Greek Diaspora is its I got a few odd jobs, went back to do you get all of this funny materi- own subculture different than school and took a marketing al?" I say that everything's funny. Greeks in Greece. Greeks happen to course. I always loved traveling so Like, the Son of Satan who is serv- be modern Europeans. But, when I got into the business. I received a ing us right now, Joey's his name you look at Greeks as a whole; travel degree, got married to a right? Nice guy. What he looks like whether in South Africa, the Mid- Greek girl and opened my own is one thing and how he comes dle East or Australia, the Greeks of travel business in Ottawa. I ran a across is different. I find this funny. the Diaspora are all the same. very successful business for many I've come to realize through all of TNH: Like the character years. Unfortunately the marriage the situations that a good comic Muhammed the Greek in “It’s BRIDES CHARITON’S CHOIR THE WAKE RED THURSDAY didn't work. Irreconcilable differ- must be a communicator. My job is Greek To Me.” ences. Personally, I think I was too to tell other people a sequence of TSAROUCHAS: That was a true ambitious. I had ten girls working stories. story in Dubai. He was Mihali from for me, a restaurant, sun-tanning Our waiter Joey talks about his 'ta Trikala.' I quickly figured it out salon. I had the business sense. 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By Dimitri Soultogiannis said. “Today, I meet people I have viewing Greece’s case. The Visa Special to the National Herald never met before, and it’s indeed Waiver Program permits nationals wonderful, because I feel I have from certain countries who are trav- NEW YORK – Greek American busi- known them for many years.” Mr. eling to the United States for nessman John Catsimatidis hosted a Bilirakis stressed the importance of tourism or business to stay for 90 luncheon honoring Congressman the support the Greek American days or less without obtaining a visa. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) on Monday, Oc- community has given him and the It currently includes 27 countries. tober 29, 2007 at Trata Greek important achievements of the Hel- To participate in the program, coun- Restaurant in Manhattan. The lun- lenic Caucus which he co-chairs tries must meet several criteria in- cheon’s purpose was to raise funds along with Congresswoman Carolyn cluding reciprocal visa-free travel for Mr. Bilirakis’ next election. Maloney (D-NY). for U.S. citizens, secure machine- “It doesn’t matter whether you “Three weeks ago the House readable biometric passports, and a are Republican or Democrat,” Mr. Committee on Foreign Affairs unan- maximum allowable three percent Catsimatidis said. “We need to sup- imously passed a bipartisan resolu- refusal rate of U.S. non-immigrant port one of our own.” tion which we introduced,” said Mr. visitor visa applications. According to Mr. Catsimatidis, by Bilirakis. “The resolution supports “Greece is the only one of the financially supporting Gus Bilirakis the implementation of a United Na- original 15 European Union nations the Greek American community tions-brokered agreement toward that does not belong to the Visa promotes the Greek culture and her- the reunification of Cyprus.” Waiver Program. Greece meets the itage. On July 8, 2006, Republic of current criteria mandated for entry “As we all know politics is all Cyprus President Tassos Pa- into the Visa Waiver Program, in- about money and power, so let’s pro- padopoulos and Turkish Cypriot cluding the three percent refusal vide Gus with both,” Mr. Catsima- leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed to rate,” Mr. Bilirakis said. “As of Janu- tidis said. an UN-sponsored framework estab- ary 1, 2007, Greek passports issued John Catsimatidis told TNH he lishing a set of principles for the prior to January 1, 2006, are no was satisfied with the turnout, “but Greek and Turkish Cypriots to find longer considered valid for travel. we can always do better,” he said. common ground and ensure a last- Greek nationals are traveling with “We are going to raise anything be- ing peace and eventual reunifica- new, machine-readable passports tween 30 and 40 thousand dollars tion. Mr. Bilirakis is pleased with the that are produced using state-of-the- but we have to do better, otherwise bipartisan support for his resolution art biometric technology to meet the the Turks will do better and the Jews and the prospect of Congress lend- highest possible security standards will do better,” he said. ing its support to the July 8 peace and specifications.” Mr. Bilirakis thanked the Greek process. TNH/COSTAS BEJ President of the Pan Cyprian As- American community for its support “The Committee has acted deci- Greek American businessman John Catsimatidis (center, seated) hosted a luncheon to raise funds for Con- sociation (PSEKA) Philip Christo- since the very first day he an- sively to demonstrate its support for gressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) on Monday, October 29, 2007 in New York City. pher told TNH he admires Mr. Bili- nounced he was running for office. a constructive and transparent rakis’ ability to bring together Greek “It’s so wonderful,” he said. “I am process toward a reunification of H. Res. 405 acknowledges the move toward sustained progress in for a vote. It was time for this Con- Americans regardless of their politi- very fortunate I have the support of Cyprus,” said Mr. Bilirakis. “The im- key terms of the July 8, 2006 agree- implementing the July 8th Agree- gress to act in expressing its support cal affiliation. “We are delighted we this great community.” plementation of the July 8 Agree- ment, particularly the formation of a ment. for the unification of Cyprus.” are able to support his efforts,” Mr. Mr. Bilirakis feels blessed to be ment would make it possible for a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation “More than 33 years after the di- With respect to Greece’s entrance Christopher said. Greek American because “he was Cyprus that is unified under a bi- with territory allocated to the Greek vision of Cyprus, it is important that to the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Many of Mr. Bilirakis’ personal given the opportunity to work on zonal, bi-communal federation with and Turkish communities within a both sides now move forward on a Mr. Bilirakis expressed his satisfac- friends attended the luncheon such the Greek issues.” a single sovereignty, single interna- united Cyprus. Mr. Bilirakis has en- dialogue that can pave the way for a tion with the latest developments. as George Glyphis, Michael Psaros, “I have a responsibility to my tional personality and single citizen- couraged House Speaker Nancy more sustainable and lasting “We are working on the VWP, we Gregory Pappajohn, Dr. Tom Sclaris, constituents but I also have a re- ship with respect for human rights Pelosi to take up the measure before peace,” said Bilirakis. “I urged have to stay on top of it,” he said. Ac- Peter Papanicolaou, Nick Christo- sponsibility to the Greek community and fundamental freedoms for all the full House and for both Cypriot Speaker Pelosi to move this impor- cording to Bilirakis the Department pher, Nickos Mouyaris, George Ka- of the United States,” Mr. Bilirakis Cypriots.” leaders to take the initiative and tant resolution before the full House of Homeland Security is now re- lergios and Peter Pappas Sr. The Tale of Steve Vasilakos, the White House Peanut Vendor

Continued from page 1 “when she out walking, she no see York Times September 27, 1940). until the Great Depression that Vasi- baritone Nicola Moscona. During “four freedoms” at this ceremony: Steve, and she asked policeman, As newspaper and magazine ac- lakos began to gain true national this program, a truly singular an- Connie Karis, ‘Miss Freedom from Greek community. That he led a life and he say they no more let me counts of the day reported, Vasi- stature. nouncement was made: The United Want,’ Gloria Stamatelos, ‘Miss Free- which was not all that unusual stand there. And she say, ‘Yes, he lakos was so moved by Mrs. Roo- THE COMMON MAN States Treasury Department named dom of Speech,’ Karey Janetis, ‘Miss among entire generation of Greek stay.’ So I come back, and again sell sevelt’s unwavering support, he fi- New stories would always por- the Order of AHEPA “an official Issu- Freedom from Fear’ and Maria immigrants while still meeting peanuts and popcorn.” Vasilakos nally decided to become an Ameri- tray Vasilakos as the closest neigh- ing Agent for U.S. War Bonds.” No Carayas, ‘Miss Freedom of Religion.’ world leaders on a daily basis is a was to recall that, of all the presi- can citizen. “Steve Vasilakos, cele- bor to the White House. The re- other civic organization has ever This event was a tremendous suc- tale well worth telling. dents, “My best President customer brated peanut vendor at the White porters would often use Vasilakos as been ascribed with this title. cess, with the climatic announce- THE GREEK PEDDLERS is Hoover. He always buy, even in House gate, has applied for Ameri- a sly comic foil against the changing In a nationwide mobilization, ment that $519,000 had been raised For those readers 30 or younger, depression. Two bags at one time.” can citizenship 28 years, one month times. In short articles like, “Won- Greek Americans worked collective- for the bond drive as of that night. Vasilakos’ career choice might seem At some point along the way, and two weeks after arriving in this ders How Ford Can Park at Capital,” ly as never before, enlisting the co- Steve Vasilakos did not attend unique, but that’s far from the case. Steve Vasilakos, whose name was country from Greece. He issued this Vasilakos was recorded voicing his ordinated support of as many of this celebration in his honor. He was Beginning in the late 1880’s, hun- far too much of a challenge for the formal statement of explanation: doubts about Henry Ford finding a their fellow Greeks as possible. In in the hospital suffering from a heart dreds of Greeks across the country average Anglo-Saxon, simply be- ‘Well, I did not get a chance to take parking spot in an ever more crowd- Washington, Steve Vasilakos, condition. Not long afterwards, on owned small pushcarts. What es- came known in the popular press out my citizenship papers before, ed Washington, DC area (New York “White House peanut vender for the March 1, 1943, he died. A host of re- capes those who don’t know Greek and in newsreels as, “The White but I have been just as good Ameri- Times, April 24, 1938). last 33 years, today observed the quiems were offered. In New York American history is that these ped- House Peanut Vender.” Every day, can citizen as if I were born here, if Later that same year (October second anniversary of Italy’s unpro- City, on the night of his death, “al- dlers gradually went from push- come rain or come shine, Vasilakos not better in some cases’ (New York 10, 1938), Vasilakos’ comments voked attack upon his native Greece most 10,000 of Steve’s countrymen carts, to larger lunch wagons, then and his pushcart were to be seen at Times, February 15, 1938).” summarizing the performance of by going into the war bond business paid him a tribute at a war-bond ral- to diners and finally into operating the same location. More than two full years later, President Roosevelt were reprinted with the slogan: ‘Make a monkey ly (New York Times March 1, some of the finest restaurants in the As newspaper accounts of the era Vasilakos was finally able to say, “I in TIME: “Proprietor Steve Vasilakos out of Mussolini’ (New York Times, 1943).” world. suggest, Steve Vasilakos unques- am an American 100 percent – pa- of the peanut stand at the White October 29, 1942).” Here is what the New York Times These peddlers were distinctive tionably possessed some kind of piz- pers and all (New York Times Sep- House gates, addressing a group of Steve Vasilakos’, first customer said: “Steve Vasilakos was one of individuals. Half of all Greek men zazz or charisma. As with other tember 27, 1940).” customers, declared, ‘Look, all the was Sam Rayburn, Speaker of the America’s most distinguished citi- who stayed in North America never Greek pushcart men, he always kept Vasilakos lived as did many of his world is yelling and pushing at each House of Representatives. Speaker zens. Few would have recognized married. No can say with certainty himself, his cart and his product fellow countrymen, “He lives on other except here. Here is peace and Rayburn bought a $25 bond and got his name and still fewer could have how many of those bachelors were first-rate. As one Washingtonian re- Pennsylvania Avenue in a hotel no fuss… Over there, guns. Here, no a free bag of peanuts. This exchange spelled it correctly, but most news- in the pushcart trade, but it was al- porter noted, “Steve is always well- about a block from the White House. guns. Here there’s squirrels on the was so noteworthy that it was paper readers would have under- ways a considerable number. Aside dressed. His store clothes are pre- The hotel charges transients $1 a lawn.” shown at movie houses around the stood a reference to the picturesque from fresh food and highly decorat- cisely pressed, and his blucher shoes country in a newsreel. Not simply a Greek who sold peanuts on a corner ed carts, these men took special shine. He wears stiff collars and media-moment soon to be forgotten just outside the White House. Steve pride in their personal attire. A sur- white shirts, their sleeves help up by within roughly six months Steve is said to have known seven Presi- prising number of them wore tai- blue armbands. His tie is fastened Vasilakos sold $50,000 worth of war dents and he had pull when he lored suits. Depending on their with a chain clasp with the letter V bonds making him, at that moment needed it – which was when mis- trade, others wore careful arrange- on it. He sports a gold watch chain in time, AHEPA’s top selling war guided District officials tried to get ments of starched white shirts, across his vest, and always carries a bond salesman (New York Times his stand off that busy corner. He ironed jackets, full aprons and sus- fountain pen and several pencils. An March 2, 1943). didn’t move until war precautions penders. Given that so many of umbrella is part of his equipment But this was not atypical for Vasi- put his side of the block out of these Greek bachelors were so uni- (New York Times, November 17, lakos, “He gave generously to Greek bounds for pedestrians, and then he formly regimented in their daily at- 1940).” Relief and other war relief agencies, just went across the street… He said tire within the Greek community, In 1934, a second attempt was to the Community Chest and what- that what this war meant for him the general term, “sportis (i.e., a made to ban Vasilakos from his ever generous giving was called for was that, if it were lost, ‘I will not be sportily attired individual),” was a pushcart’s location. Officials (New York Times, March 2, 1943). able to sell peanuts at my stand any- slang term frequently applied to this stressed that, not only was he too For years I have heard various more…’ What he accomplished was entire class of unmarried men. near the Executive Mansion, Vasi- self-important Greek Americans say in one way humble, and in another Steve Vasilakos was one among lakos was also parked next to a fire that Vasilakos was nothing more way as big as the whole of North hundreds of such Greek immigrant hydrant. On September 19th of that than a “sportis” peanut vender with- America. His career wouldn’t have street peddlers. The image of a year, Vasilakos appealed to Eleanor out a thought in his head. That it been made possible elsewhere. A Greek peddler, as a common sight Roosevelt with a written note, was really a local Greek lawyer who Berlin peanut vender would have to on the streets of urban America, is which legend recalls as being writ- guided Vasilakos’ media career. But I be a spy, a toady or a pitiful payer of one now generally lost to popular ten on a peanut bag. Whatever form have never seen any proof justifying blackmail to the Gestapo. Steve consciousness. But for individuals in of stationary Vasilakos employed, this claim. I have only heard gossip. Vasilakos was a self-respecting busi- their twilight years, this is far from we know that, “upon recent of the It’s always amazing to me that nessman (March 2, 1943).” the case. Once we recognize how letter Mrs. Roosevelt, who is recov- native-born Americans are always For some, he was a even a bit prevalent these street peddlers once ering from the grip (i.e., ‘grippe,’ in- portrayed as sly, cunning, and filled more than that: “Nicholas were, we can better understand oth- fluenza), wrote from her sickbed to with insight about how to best use Stephanos Vasilakos echoes with er aspects of Greek American cultur- Stephen Early, assistant secretary to The White House in 1931, at a time when Steve Vasilakos, the “White the media towards their own ends more than sentiment to some per- al expressions. the President, asking him to take up House Peanut Vendor,” worked in front of the Presidential Mansion’s but immigrants are always just cul- sons. It echoes with romance… In 1956, when Harry Mark Pe- with the district authorities the mat- gates and rubbed elbows with presidents and first ladies. tural dopes. Is that how we should Many a romantic couple have, be- trakis sold his first short story to The ter of having Steve’s stand restored remember your parents, grandpar- fore or after the show, bought of the Atlantic, his character in the led role to him. ‘I would miss him on that night, but Steve is a regular patron. All these accounts inevitably pre- ents or any of the old people? In man on Pennsylvania & East Execu- of “Pericles on 31st Street,” Nick Si- corner,’ Mrs. Roosevelt wrote to Mr. His room, not large, is furnished sented Vasilakos as the “common viewing these events from this van- tive Avenues. More romantic, how- monakis, is a peanut vender, and Early. ‘We had better let him stand at simply with a bed, bureau, table and man” or “the man on the street,” us- tage point in history, it is important ever, have been the purchases from nothing but ordinary. the White House gates.’ Where- two chairs (New York Times, No- ing his perspective as a counterpoint to pay strict attention to what took this man in the form of peanuts to be ODYSSEY TO WASHINGTON upon, Mr. Early intervened with the vember 17, 1940).” No published to the pronouncements of business- place according to the published fed to squirrels and pigeons across As published accounts report, District commissioners and was as- accounts which I have been able to men and bureaucrats. documents. In that regard, it’s easy the way, as cater-cornered to N.S.V.’s Nicholas Stephanos Vasilakos came sured by Commissioner Allen that locate report where he stored his Such was Vasilakos’ media to see that Vasilakos was not above stand is a small park where many directly to Washington because a Steve would be allowed to resume cart; secured his stock; or how he stature that, when the occasion entering the political scene when he Washingtonites go during the swel- brother in-law was already living his old stand (New York Times, Sep- managed to get all the custom-made arose, he was able to manipulate it thought he should. tering days to court sweethearts, and working in the nation’s capital. tember 24, 1936).” signs, colored flags and other items towards his own end. Anyone who In June 1942, Steve Vasilakos, take wives and sisters, and feed As with so many other Greek immi- Three days later, it is reported it for his 2’ x 6’ cart. doesn’t think a simple peanut had a private meeting with King squirrels and pigeons (TIME, Febru- grants from this era, the two men even required that the President be So why all this concern over a vender knows how to manipulate George II and Emanuel Tsouderos, ary 12, 1934).” opened a restaurant. Vasilakos was moved into action, and Steve was peanut vender? It is because we the media needs to ask himself or the Greek Premier. President Roo- But what was Vasilakos’ real not suited for the indoors, and soon saved (New York Times, September must stop and forget about our con- herself how Vasilakos managed to sevelt had arranged the visit. Details claim to fame? Perhaps it was that sold his interest in the business. 27, 1936). temporary culture and really try to accomplish what he did. of the meeting were not recorded in he embodied a regular hardworking Not long afterwards, Vasilakos The Greek vendor’s public re- understand the past. We now live in WAR BOND DRIVE full beyond the fact that the King immigrant man’s spirit of unflinch- received his first annual license, and sponse came in the form of in a press an age of the celebrity. During the Greek America’s complicated in- asked Steve, “how business was, ing consistency. His peanut wagon he began to park his peanut wagon release written in pencil on an emp- era we are considering, however, volvement in World War II remains a and he replied that he was ‘making a was a familiar sight for several gen- on Executive Avenue at the north- ty popcorn bag: “It was certainly a they had just begun the process of disgracefully neglected topic of living’ (New York Times, June 16, erations of Washington government east corner of the White House great pleasure for me to wait on a creating a culture focused on notori- American history. Certainly the 1942).” workers and tourists. Greek immi- grounds. As Vasilakos, through an new customer today at noon. The ety. This change was not universally Greek American community’s dedi- MAN OF THE YEAR grant street vendors were a common interpreter, was to recall some thirty First Lady of the Land stopped by my favored. Vasilakos was, in fact, a cated commitment to war bond dri- Seen from that perspective, it be- sight all across America. In Sinclair years later (New York Times Novem- stand and purchased a bag of fresh person who seemed to challenge ves from both the First and Second comes easy to see why AHEPA be- Lewis’ classic 1920 novel, “Main ber 17, 1940): roasted popcorn for pastime (TIME this new trend. You can’t get more World Wars must one day be fully re- stowed the special honor of “The Street,” the panorama of stores “I start in business when Presi- magazine, January 29, 1934).” common that a street peddler. Not searched, described and evaluated. Common Man of the Year” upon along the archetypal small-town dent Taft lived next door… He was a It may be hard to understand the yet mesmerized by media culture, We do know that on October 28, Vasilakos in December 1942. The American street included “the Greek big fine man who laughed when he bureaucratic force applied to the the average journalist, just like the 1942, in a special coast-to-coast ra- ceremonies were held at the Wal- candy store with the whine of a buy peanuts, and he smacks his question of Vasilakos’ location from average reader, knew from personal dio broadcast, AHEPA announced its dorf-Astoria Hotel. Honored guests peanut-roaster, and the oily smell of friends on the back when he walks our perspective in history. As TIME experience that, just because some- $50,000,000 War Bond Drive. Mark- included Archbishop Athenagoras, nuts (New York: Harcourt, Brace: with them.” But not everyone in reported, the First Lady was re- one is a peanut vender, this did not ing the second anniversary of the Governor Charles Poletti, Richard C. 34).” The lasting significance of Washington approved of a mere quired to intercede “for the second automatically make the person stu- Italian invasion of Greece, the Patterson, chairman of the New York Steve Vasilakos’ life was not how peanut vendor so close to the White time with the police (October 5, pid or uninteresting. broadcast was an extravaganza War Savings Staff, and George C. atypical or unique, but how com- House. During Calvin Coolidge’s 1936).” Knowing that this sustained As all the magazine and newspa- which included Sam Rayburn, then Vournas, supreme president of mon, it was of an entire generation. presidency, city officials removed resistance took place deepens our per quotations cited so far report, Speaker of the House of Representa- AHEPA, “plus stage, screen and ra- Vasilakos from his usual location. understanding of why Vasilakos was American journalists were not hesi- tives; AHEPA President George C. dio stars (New York Times Decem- Readers who wish to contact Mr. This did not go unnoticed. As Vasi- “overcome with gratitude” for the tant to run a story on the White Vournas; Gary Cooper; Greek ac- ber 10, 1942).” Four young Greek Frangos may e-mail him at greek- lakos reported, Mrs. Coolidge, First Lady’s steadfast support (New House Peanut Vendor. But it was not tress Katina Paxinou; and Greek American women represented the [email protected]. THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 FEATURE 7

BIBLIA: A BOOK REVIEW COLUMN “The Unification of Greece, 1770-1923,” A Rigorous, Historical Narrative

By Alexandros K. Kyrou demonstrated importance—of co- he argues that the Greek nation- been more fortunate: They had emerged between 1848 and 1870 volved the loss of 6,000 Italian sol- Special to The National Herald herent national identity, they over- state was actually the product of achieved their unification in just included virtually all Italians and had diers, the multiple wars and other look the nuance and sophistication four wars of independence: the over two decades. Whereas Rome a population exceeding 20 million. struggles associated with the pro- DOUGLAS DAKIN. The Unifica- of Dakin’s combined comparative Greek Revolution beginning in fell relatively easily into the hands The small Greek state estab- longed and financially-exhausting tion of Greece, 1770-1923. London: and narrative method. However, in 1821; the struggle for Crete’s union of Italian nationalists, the new lished in the 1830s, whose very Greek national unification move- Ernest Benn Limited; New York: St. their unwillingness to recognize with independent Greece from Rome, Constantinople never came sovereignty was limited by Great ment ultimately cost many hun- Martin’s Press, 1972. Pp. xvi, 344. the value of Dakin’s work, his crit- 1866 to 1897; the Greek struggle in the way of the Greeks. On perhaps Power domination, was territorial- dreds of thousands of lives and the Hardback, out of print, available. ics reveal their own ideological pre- Macedonia from 1897 to 1908; and two occasions the Greeks might ly truncated and, furthermore, con- uprooting of a million and a half tensions to monopolize the reading the struggle for Greek liberation have entered their Holy City…but tained within its artificially-im- people. One of the most hotly debated of Greek history according to and expansion fought in Asia Minor on both occasions…the European posed borders only 800,000 peo- Yet, despite tremendous obsta- issues in modern Greek studies tropes of identity invention, sup- from 1919 to 1922. Although the political situation was un- ple, representing less than one- cles, Greece gradually extended its concerns the use of comparative pression, and exclusion by a na- Greek campaign in Asia Minor end- favourable to the Greeks. But when fourth of the widely dispersed frontiers, liberated most of its peo- versus single-country analysis in tionalizing state. ed in disaster, Dakin proposes that Rome fell to the Italians…every- Greek population in the Balkans ple, and made considerable ad- historical research on Greece. Ad- Dakin’s work presents the this fourth war of independence thing was in their favour” (p. 261). and Asia Minor. As a result, Greece vances. Dakin posits Greece ac- vocates of comparative method Greeks as a distinct nation who cre- was the culmination of the Greeks’ Dakin suggests that the Italian would have the dubious distinction complished its successes in the face tend to understand historical re- ated their own independent state, national unification process, inas- nationalists’ speedy achievement of of becoming the only country in of overwhelming odds because the search as overwhelmingly interpre- rather than as an amorphous and much as the Asia Minor events pro- unification owed much to the skill- modern Europe whose indepen- Greeks possessed a salient, intense tive in nature, and they critique as heterogeneous population who duced the unintended, yet conclu- dence would not coincide with the self awareness as a nation. This inferior the classical historical were made into Greeks by a nation- sive, incorporation of uprooted liberation of the majority of its peo- common identity was, in fact, evi- methods of narrative and descrip- alist state. This interpretation of Anatolian Greeks into the territory Greece accomplished its ples and lands. Under these pecu- denced by internal unanimity in tion. For the reader committed to history does not fit the ideological of the Greek state. successes in the face of liar circumstances, it was inevitable support, and hence a willingness to acquiring accurate historical viewpoint of many of Dakin’s crit- Dakin’s narrative privileges that the liberation and unification sacrifice such a great deal, for the knowledge that allows for thought- ics. As a result, this seminal book is diplomatic, military, and political overwhelming odds of unredeemed Hellenism would goal of national unification. In this ful conclusion, it is important to re- generally ignored by many of the factors in explaining the steady ad- because the Greeks become the Greek state’s all-con- sense Greece was decisively advan- alize that the aforementioned po- very scholars who advocate com- vances in the process of Greek na- possessed a salient, suming purpose. taged over Italy. larization of two supposedly mutu- parativism in Greek history. In- tional unification. Even so, he inte- Looking to international condi- Whereas Greece’s chief impedi- ally-exclusive methods for histori- deed, precisely because Dakin’s in- grates cultural, economic, and so- intense self awareness. tions, the Habsburg Empire aside, ments to expansion had been exter- cal research is frequently mapped terpretation does not conform to cial forces into what emerges as a the Italian Risorgimento generally nal, the main obstacles to Italian onto competing ideological per- most of the latter’s views on Greek cogent historical account that re- ful diplomacy of their leading enjoyed Great Power support, pro- unification were internal. Before spectives: proponents of compara- identity and culture, The Unifica- veals the dominance of material statesman, Camillo Benso di ducing favorable circumstances their political unification the peo- tive-interpretive method reject the tion of Greece, 1770-1923 is usual- conditions over ideas about nation- Cavour, the prime minister of Pied- that required little economic or mil- ples and disparate polities of the notion of objective conclusions ly sidestepped as a comparative al community in affecting the mont-Sardinia. Greece certainly itary expenditure for Italy in order Italian Peninsula lacked a coalesc- based on empirical evidence, while work and often relegated to the cat- course of national unification. Cer- bested Italy in an extraordinary to realize its objectives. The Greek ing oppressor, a coherent ethnic practitioners of narrative-descrip- egory of conventional national, if tainly, the Megali Idea stands out as share of great statesmen, whether national unification movement, by identity, a common culture, eco- tive method claim that interpreta- not nationalist, narratives. the formalizing creed behind the in the figures of Ioannis Capodis- comparison, was handicapped nomic and institutional integra- tion distorts the writing of history Dakin, a professor of history at early Greek state’s defining goal of trias, Charilaos Trikoupis, Ion “above all, by pressure from the Eu- tion, or even linguistic unity, all according to the agenda of the in- Birkbeck College in the University liberating the Greek people from Dragoumis, or Eleutherios Venize- ropean powers which, from their powerful forces present, and shap- terpreter. of London, published several Ottoman rule and unifying all their los. However, Dakin’s comparative standpoints, worked towards the ing a determined nationalist will, in Douglas Dakin’s The Unification prominent books on Greek history lands into a territorially expansive method leaves no doubt that the preservation of the Ottoman Em- the case of the Greeks. Although of Greece, 1770-1923, reveals the before his death in 1995, but the state. But the ideological determi- limitations and setbacks in the tra- pire and consequently imposed re- intangible strengths stemming artificiality of zero-sum arguments book under review was one of his nation and political will character- jectory and process of Greek na- straining hands on Greece” (p. from Greek national identity could about historical method. Dakin’s most significant for its methodolog- izing the Megali Idea came to be tional unification cannot be under- 267). Therefore, in addition to not be expected to trump the hard book, instead, demonstrates that ical originality. The book narrates mitigated by external power poli- stood without contextualizing do- having to fight the enormous and power of an international system the most rigorous historical re- the emergence and consolidation tics and domestic structural limita- mestic factors—like political lead- still powerful Ottoman Empire and and material conditions which search combines precise narrative of the Greek nation-state as a tions. ership—within the dominant con- later struggle with Balkan rival worked to constrain the ambitions and description, drawn from em- process of national unification The comparison to the process text of Great Power politics. states, Greek expansion was rou- of the Greek state, Dakin’s book pirical evidence, with sophisticated comparable, but not identical, to and experiences of Italian unifica- Taking into account the basic tinely scuttled by Great Power op- makes it clear that without the for- interpretive analysis, based on rig- the Italian Risorgimento, the politi- tion provides the analytic and inter- material, or physical, factors of ge- position. mer the Greek national cause could orous comparison. Deconstruc- cal developments and social move- pretive bases to reinforce Dakin’s ography and demographics, Dakin Because of the Herculean chal- not have prospered at all in a world tionist and other revisionist schol- ments that resulted in the establish- clear narration and description. notes that throughout its struggle lenges facing the small, impover- dominated by the latter. ars are quick to cast Dakin as part ment of the Italian nation-state in Indeed, at the beginning of his con- for political unity Italy had the ad- ished Greek state, its expansion, Alexandros K. Kyrou is Associate of a cohort of traditional historians the nineteenth century. cluding chapter, where Dakin casts vantage of a large population con- unlike Italy’s, did not come about Professor of History at Salem whose work supposedly legitimates Dakin’s timeline is remarkable his comparative assessment, he ob- centrated in a well-defined, com- easily and instead required enor- State College in Salem, Massachu- a nationalist and triumphalist read- for its beginnings with the abortive serves, “It had taken the Greeks pact, and defensible territory of mous sacrifices in lives and re- setts, where he teaches on the ing of Greek history. Because such anti-Ottoman uprisings that took well over a century to achieve their considerable depth. Indeed, the sources. While the rapid, compara- Balkans, Byzantium, and the Ot- critics reject the possibility—and place between 1770 and 1814, and political unity. The Italians had large unified Italian state that tively effortless Risorgimento in- toman Empire. Stefanos Tamvakis: SAE Must Coordinate, Support and Advice Greek Community Worldwide

By Stavros Marmarinos not needed, which do not serve grams that deal with the Youth and Special to The National Herald anyone – will have to be combined Culture. Responding to questions with other institutions. I would like from members of the press, Mr. NEW YORK – The U.S. Regional to stress yet again that this is a phe- Tamvakis noted that each Regional Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) nomenon that Hellenism all around body must form networks – with and the Greek-American Commu- the world is experiencing. SAE is the Youth being a priority – and nity in General has the unique dis- expanding its base through its Re- that there should be a census con- tinction of being able to play a spe- gions, and it wants everyone to par- ducted for Greeks living abroad. He cial role in Greece’s national issues, ticipate; everyone who has dis- also noted that he does not want to SAE World President Stefanos Tam- played healthy activity. I am talking see thousands of delegates at the vakis told The National Herald in about organizations that have meetings in Thessaloniki. “It is un- an exclusive interview. Mr. Tam- members who pay membership acceptable for more than 150-200 vakis came to New York last Friday dues regularly, who hold general delegates to be in attendance,” he as part of his visit to various cities assemblies, who make their pres- said. Speaking about rubber stamp across the United States and Cana- ence felt and are active. Now, on organizations that insist on keeping da. the other hand, what do you do their outdated roles, Mr. Tamvakis “This distinction affords the with 3 or 4 people who call them- said “they can take their rubber Greek American Community here selves an organization? We are go- stamps and go home.” the advantage of being able to con- ing to have to absorb them into Mr. Tamvakis began his tour in tribute to the resolution of Greece’s larger organizations and utilize Canada and continued by visiting national issues through its ability to them. That is what we want.” Chicago. There, he had a meeting intercede with decision-makers in Discussing the issue of charter with the members of U.S. Regional the U.S. – the world’s lone super- schools, which operate tuition-free, Committee and attended a recep- power,” Mr. Tamvakis said, stress- SAE’s World President remarked tion organized by U.S. Regional Co- ing that “the U.S. Region can play a that they were positive from a fi- ordinator Theodore Spyropoulos in leading role in areas of national in- nancial standpoint. “I know that his honor. He also visited the terest.” some people are not happy that Socrates Hellenic-American Day SAE’s World President added they are operating,” he said, but School and the Greek Museum and that the presence of U.S. citizens of added that “if children learn Greek Culture Center while in Chicago, in Greek heritage in the U.S. financial in those schools – and learn it cor- addition to meeting with the Unit- world has offered a lot, and can rectly – then I think that they are TNH/COSTAS BEJ ed Hellenic American Congress and continue to offer even more. He cit- useful.” During his visit to New York, SAE World President Stefanos Tamvakis (middle) held a press conference at attending a dinner honoring him ed the example of many illustrious Mr. Tamvakis proceeded to con- the Greek Press Office in Manhattan, and met with Greek reporters with whom he shared his thoughts on offered by Metropolitan Iakovos of Greek American entrepreneurs, gratulate the Greek American Com- the progress and future of SAE. Shown to his left is his predecessor Andrew Athens, and to his right the Di- Chicago. politicians, academicians, and peo- munity. “It is a remarkable Greek rector of the Greek Press Office Polyxeni Mastroperrou. After traveling to New York, Mr. ple involved with the Arts and Let- Community, and a wonderful piece Tamvakis held meetings with offi- ters in general. “It is my wish and of Hellenism that has truly offered ographical organizations and vari- gin to function more professionally ought to have a seat on the Council. cials in the local Greek American hope that this dynamism displayed its highest services to the home- ous historic institutions that have and more systematically, to better Mr. Tamvakis stated that at De- Community. This past Monday, he by Greek Americans remains strong land, keeping the flame of our reli- contributed greatly in the past. serve the needs of Greeks around cember’s meeting he himself would traveled to Boston and will cap-off for years to come,” Mr. Tamvakis gion, our faith in our homeland, “SAE is here to coordinate and the world.” propose that SAE work together his trip with a visit to Washington remarked. and the Greek language burning make the problems facing our base Mr. Tamvakis reported that the with the European Union on pro- D.C. Responding to a question by bright.” He went on to comment population known. By the end of first meeting of the Coordinating TNH about the reasons for limiting that the Greek-American Commu- December, we have to have re- Council will be held in Athens dur- the size of the previous SAE region nity “keeps Greece alive inside of it ceived proposals and reports on ex- ing early December. “There is going which encompassed all of North and has not been absorbed by istent problems from all the Re- to have to be a full and correct list- America to the U.S. only, Mr. Tam- mainstream America. You should gions, which we are going to group ing of the organizations that truly Don’t miss our biannual vakis defended the move saying continue with this love for the under categories like Education, represent Greeks abroad. We have “Canada and South America are homeland.” Culture, Language, Youth, and to see who are the ones that should two completely different areas. Yes, Last Friday afternoon, SAE’s grassroots problems. From thereon be participating and who should Books they may be located on the same World President, who was accom- in, we are going to have to brief the not. Of course, this may not please S PECIAL I NSERT large geographical area, but the panied by his predecessor Andrew respective government ministers everybody, but it is what we have to particulars of each region are com- Athens, met with Greek reporters at about them so that they can ad- do. The Regional bodies are going Coming soon... pletely different. I believe that the the Greek Press Office in Manhat- dress these issues. According to to have to expand the membership To advertise or to obtain rates: formation of new regions offers a tan. During the ensuing press con- new legislation, the ministers will base. We worked with an inverted tel: (718) 784-5255 ext. 101, e-mail: [email protected] new momentum, as well as a new ference, he maintained that SAE have to respond within six pyramid structure in the past, and emphasis and prospects to help has taken a new direction and has a months.” now we must ensure that the pyra- solve many problems much faster new role “which is to coordinate, SAE’s World President placed mid base is at the bottom. We have and more practically.” support and advise the worldwide special importance on the issue of to clarify which organizations we Mr. Tamvakis was also asked to Greek Community and the Greek the Youth. “The youth is a concern need and which we do not.” comment on his interest in identify- Government.” He stressed that SAE for us,” he said, explaining that “I Mr. Tamvakis also underlined ing what he calls the “healthy” must become more representative believe that our youth has gotten that it should be understood that forces within the Greek Community and embrace both Greeks who be- discouraged from time to time be- SAE is not competing against or abroad, which will be followed by long to organizations and Greeks cause of certain actions. Therefore, aiming to replace anyone, that it an uprooting of the so-called “rub- who do not. “I want us to include they have to be our next short-term needs the cooperation of the ber stamp organizations.” Mr. Tam- those persons who do not belong goal. We estimate that at the start Church, and that it places great im- vakis replied by saying “I am by no anywhere in SAE as well, because of 2008, we will convene the first portance in the instruction of the means referring to the U.S. Region we need their knowledge and Worldwide Youth Conference in Greek language. SAE’s new website only. This a phenomenon that we help,” he stated. Mr. Tamvakis also Greece. We have to provide them will include links to Greek lan- come across everywhere in the added that “this is the reasons why with a role, and they must partici- guage instruction programs. This world where there are Greek com- I believe that SAE’s Regional bodies pate in SAE’s activities and devel- program got its start when Mr. munities. On the one hand, this are going to play an increasingly opment. I believe that it will be a Tamvakis was Alternate World shows how active Greeks are across important role. This time, SAE is great failure for us if we are not President, in association with the so many different countries. How- not presidential, it is regional. We able to attract the youth, which has Onassis Foundation. He also stated ever, times change, many other have to have a much larger and already distanced itself from us.” that SAE continues to maintain in- things change, many people be- wider representation through our Later, Mr. Tamvakis highlighted terest in matters of Greek national come inactive, and many organiza- Coordinating Bodies and Regions – that “SAE will be left with nothing interest, and works hand-in-hand tions no longer exist. We do not something that probably did not to do, if it does not turn its atten- with the Greek Foreign Ministry to want any Greek of the Diaspora to exist before.” tion to the problems confronting its serve the needs of the homeland. be left out. But we also have to be In particular, Mr. Tamvakis membership base.” Referring to the “SAE must gradually secure fi- realists. For a tree to grow and blos- stressed the fact that SAE was not work of the new SAE Administra- nancial self-sufficiency,” Mr. Tam- som, it has to be pruned from its about to replace local Greek com- tion during the past nine months vakis stressed, while noting that base, whenever and wherever this munities, federations, organiza- since it took office, Mr. Tamvakis both Greeks and philhellenes in- is needed – to speak metaphorical- tion, committees, or encroach upon explained that the council has volved in the activities of the ly. Some organizations – which are the role of the Church, regional-ge- “found its rhythm and can now be- worldwide Greek Community 8 OBITUARIES CLASSIFIEDS THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007

DEATHS Bea Jane Giatras, 74, Never

■ CACAVIAS, ANASTASIA was instrumental in the construc- Stopped Playing Like a Child MACON, Ga. – The Atlanta Journal- tion of the Sts. Constantine and He- Constitution reported that Anasta- len Church at 71 Chandler Road, Kansas City Star Deatherage's sons to Worlds of Fun. sia "Sia" Andros Cacavias, 82, Andover. He was named Godfather “She would tell them, ‘Let's go passed away on Sunday, October of the church and served as presi- KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Bea Jane Gia- on the ride that spins the most,’” 28, 2007 at home with her family by dent and chairman of the church for tras, 74, passed away on Monday, Ms. Haerer-Deatherage said. Angeline Havas Pedas her side. She is survived by her chil- three successive terms in the 1980s. October 22, 2007 of complications She also liked to tease. dren Mary (John), Effie (Nick), Jim In January 1986, he was presented from pneumonia. “One of her favorite antics was, June 2, 1979 - October 29, 2007 (Paula) and Dina (Bo); her grand- with the Medallion of St. Andrew, She was born to Greek immi- just before taking off on a water children Frances, Tommy, John, the highest distinction conferred grant parents, and her Greek her- ride, she'd make a big to-do about Angeline Pedas (nee Havas), 90, a resident of Farrell, Pa. died Octo- John Allen, Lia, Anna, Katina, Vir- upon a layman in the historic Dio- itage and faith were always impor- getting her hair wet,” Ms. Haerer- ber 29, 2007 after a short illness. ginia, Maria, Stacey and James; her cese of Boston. In October 1986, he tant to her, said her sister, Kathryn Deatherage said. “She'd then pro- Beloved wife of the late Steve Pedas (Efstathios Tsimpidiss). Devot- sisters Zoe Dermatas and Katerina was awarded the Diocesan Medal of Cooper. duce a plastic shower cap and put it ed mother of Ted Pedas of Farrell, Marcy Pedas Sigler of New York Dimos; her sisters-in-law Bessie An- St. Paul in recognition of outstand- She was a lifetime member of on. She'd wear the silly thing City, George Pedas and his wife Kathy of Sharpsville, and Tom Pedas of dros and Kassie Andros; and several ing services and commitment to the Saint Dionysios Greek Orthodox throughout the ride, embarrassing New Jersey. Cherished grandmother of Christina and Stephanie to nieces and nephews. She was the church in the western hemisphere. Church, where she served on the my sons and producing lots of whom she was affectionately known as “yia-yia”. She was predeceased daughter of the late James and In 2001, he was awarded the Dioce- board. laughter.” by her sister, Rodopi Havas Angelidis, a brother, Athanasios Havas, Mary Andros, Sia was born in the san Award for outstanding service And in typical Greek fashion, Even after her health began to and a cherished nephew Xenophon Angelidis of New Jersey. In addi- village of Boutiro, Greece in 1925 to the church. Charlie's loss will be Ms. Cooper said, Ms. Giatras was fail, Ms. Giatras kept playing. tion to her childen she is survived by a nephew, Tom Angelidis, and and traveled to America with her deeply felt by all of those who knew very emotional and had a close re- Ms. Cooper said one family numerous grandnieces and grandnephews. mother and sister in 1950 to join her him and especially by his family lationship with her parents. friend in particular, age 9, had al- Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at the Bradley two brothers, George and Harry An- who love him dearly. His memory Ms. Giatras lived with her moth- ways loved playing hide-and-seek. McGonigle Funeral Home, 1090 East State Street, Sharon, Pa. on Fri- dros, in Macon, Georgia. Soon will be eternal and the fruits of his er, now 104, in the family home un- More recently, Ms. Giatras had to day, November 2 between the hours of 4:00pm and 7:45pm. Religious thereafter, she met and married the labor will continue to flourish for til her mother went into a nursing explain she wasn't able to do that services will be held at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, love of her life, John Constantine many decades to come. The funeral facility. Ms. Giatras visited often anymore -- but she spent the day 1007 Washington Street, Farrell, Pa. on Saturday, November 3 at Cacavias, in 1952. Together they was held on October 24 at Saints and made sure that her other sib- playing board games. 10:00a.m. In lieu of flowers a contribution may be made to a charity raised their four children, settling Constantine and Helen Greek Or- lings did the same, Ms. Cooper Ms. Giatras worked in sales for of the donor’s choice. permanently in Macon in 1958. She thodox Church in Andover. Memori- said. Braniff International Airways and Angeline Pedas, a homemaker, was a member of the Annunciation proudly supported her husband as al donations to Saints Constantine Ms. Giatras was vivacious and later UMB Bank. Greek Orthodox Church in Farrell and a long time participant in the he focused on the family-owned and Helen Church community cen- known for being a daredevil, Her verbal communication skills Ladies’ Philoptochos Society, the annual Greek bazaar and the senior business, Nu-Way Weiners. Her ter (71 Chandler Road, Andover, friends and family said. and ability to relate to people citizen center. She was a skilled gardener who took pride in cultivating greatest pleasures were cooking, MA 01810). “She was a character,” Ms. helped her excel in her career, said roses. Greek music permeated her household, sounds which often gardening, shopping, and admiring Cooper said. Karen Spartan, who chose Ms. Gia- propelled those present to join her in song or an intricate Greek dance. her ten grandchildren. She was a ■ PAPPAS, VALENTENE Her outgoing personality helped tras to be her daughter's godmoth- Her greatest love was her family. She travelled extensively visiting, member of the Holy Cross Greek Or- VALLEJO, Calif. – The Vallejo Times people feel drawn to her right er. among other countries, Greece, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Mexico, South thodox Church, where she was a Herald reported on Tuesday, Octo- away, friend Susan Haerer- “She was always a top per- America and much of the United States. dedicated volunteer and a member ber 23, 2007, that Valentene “Val” Deatherage said. former in everything she did,” Ms. In 1982 she attended Miss C. J. Jankovich’s Farrell High School of both the Philoptochos Society Pappas, passed away. She is sur- “She was immediately your Spartan said. “It just came natural- evening class ‘English as a Second Language’ - an experience which and the Evrytanian Association of vived by her daughter Ariadne friend,” Ms. Haerer-Deatherage ly to her.” was published in the Reader's Digest "Life in These United States". America. She also participated in Green; her granddaughters, Vianna said. “As soon as you met her, you She is survived by her mother, a Born 1917 in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, Angeline, known by the organization of the Sofia Ayapi Williams and Nitsa Green; her sister felt like you had known her forev- brother and sister, a niece, a her birthname “Angeliki” was the older of two daughters born to Elpis Club, where she would gather Stella Murphy; her nieces Pam Mur- er.” nephew and a great-niece. George (Giorgios) Havas and Mercina Cacalis. Her father, a farmer with her Greek friends to participate phy and Christina Winegar; and her Those same personality traits Ms. Spartan said having Giatras from Greece, had secured employment at the Pittsburgh Reduction in charity, religious, and social activ- newest friend six year old, Carleen made Ms. Giatras great with chil- in her life left a lasting impression Company (Alcoa), where new technologies had launched industries ities. She was a beautiful woman Castro. Born Valentene Nuris to an dren, though she never had any of on her daughter Anastasia and oth- on the banks of the Allegheny River luring immigrants seeking em- full of love, grace, and kindness. She immigrant Greek family in her own. ers who knew her. ployment opportunities. lived her life according to her fa- Marysville, she moved to Vallejo Ms. Cooper said Ms. Giatras “She gave her a gift of confi- Her life was shaped by the tides of history. Four events in particular vorite motto, “Be nice.” She loved with her family when she was just a would do anything for fun and dence and perhaps a little more impacted her life. These included the influenza pandemic of 1918- and was dedicated to her family, toddler and grew up amongst the spent many days with the children fearlessness than she would have 1920, Greece’s devastating battle to reclaim Smyrna from the Ot- friends, church, and those in need. closely-knit Greek Orthodox Church of family and friends. Once they got gotten from, perhaps, just her tomon Empire, President Roosevelt’s closure of the banks on March 6, She shared her wisdom, energy, hu- community. She graduated from older, those children would joke, mom,” Spartan said. “She gave a 1933 and World War II. mor, love, and amazing zest for life Vallejo Sr. High School and worked “We grew up and Aunt Janie did- gift in her relationships with people On February 2, 1920 her mother, Mercina Cacalis Havas, died an with all who knew her. “The Ca- as civil servant at Mare Island Naval n't,” Ms. Cooper said. that will live on.” untimely death at age 27 having succumbed to the devastating in- cavias family is particularly grateful Shipyard until her retirement in Ms. Giatras loved to go on fluenza epidemic which engulfed the world, killing 20 million. The for the care and dedication of Sia's 1978. Her most rewarding work amusement park rides and fre- The Kansas City Star published devastated widower, George Havas, unable to find suitable care for his physician, Dr. F. James Smith, Jr., was raising and nurturing Ariadne, quently accompanied Ms. Haerer- the above on October 27 motherless daughters, took them to his ancestral home, the Aegean is- his nursing staff, and Jenny Bonds, her only child from her brief mar- land of Lemnos, Greece. On September 3, 1920 he married Koralia Pe- RN with Hospice of Central Geor- riage to Christopher Pappas her di- nakos who became his devoted wife and a loving stepmother to the gia.” The funeral was held on Octo- vine complement. She belonged to two-and-a-half-year-old Angeline (Angeliki), the 18 month old Rodopi ber 31 at Holy Cross Greek Ortho- several spiritual, social and philan- CLASSIFIEDS and to their son, Athanasios born 1921. dox Church in Macon. Memorial do- thropic women's organizations. She Upon returning to Greece, in 1920, her father, George Havas, was nations to the Holy Cross Greek Or- was recently honored with the Pre- inducted into Greek military service where he fought for two years in thodox Church (Renovation Fund), ceptor Degree for her membership ANTONOPOULOS the Asia Minor campaign to liberate Smyrna from the Ottomon Empire (859 First Street, Macon, GA in the Kappa Iota Chapter of Beta HELP WANTED FUNERAL HOME, INC. - a war which ended in disaster on September 11, 1922 when the 31201) or to Hospice of Central Sigma Phi, a philanthropic organi- Konstantinos Antonopoulos - whole of seaside Smyrna was destroyed by fire during the horrible Georgia, (P. O. Box 6533, Macon, zation donating to numerous local JOURNALISTS WANTED Funeral Director slaughter of its Greek Christian population. Her father had miracu- GA 31208). charities, such as The Christian Help Nation’s leading Greek American 38-08 Ditmars Blvd., lously survived the burning city of Smyrna by smuggling himself Center, Salvation Army and “Make- newspaper needs reporters and as- Astoria, New York 11105 aboard a freighter making his way, not to Lemnos least he again be ■ LIPONIS, CHARLES a-Wish Foundation.” She was an ac- sistant editor for English weekly (718) 728-8500 drafted, but to western Pennsylvania working in Aliquippa, New Cas- ANDOVER, Mass. – The Enterprise tive member of the Greek Ladies paper. Exceptional writing/report- Not affiliated with any tle and Farrell. His pregnant wife had remained in Lemnos where she reported that Charles Liponis, 78, Philoptahos at Saints Constantine ing skills and bilingual fluency a other funeral home. gave birth to their son,Athanasios. Twenty-six years would pass before passed away on Saturday, October and Helen Greek Orthodox Church must. Car a plus. Fax or e-mail clips he would be reunited with his wife, Koralia. 20, 2007, from complications of and was also a member of Alpha and cover letter to 718-472-0510 APOSTOLOPOULOS Her father’s earnings supported the family in Lemnos. They com- Parkinson's. He is survived by his Gamma Sigma, a church affiliated or [email protected]. Apostle Family - municated with each other through the exchange of letters and pho- wife Bess; his children Kim (Jack), woman's philanthropic sorority. She 111609/01 Gregory, Nicholas, Andrew - tos. Her stepbrother Athanasios (1921 – 1943) died at age 22 in Lem- Mark (Siobhan) and Kirk; his grand- loved antique collecting and was ac- Funeral Directors of nos during the island’s German occupation. Medications, in short sup- children Timothy, Matthew, Brenna, complished at needlework. She be- COMMERCIAL R.E. FOR RENT RIVERDALE ply during World War II, were not available to civilians. Demitri and Constantine; his sister longed to the Napa Valley Embroi- FUNERAL HOME Inc. Angeline (Angeliki) was 14 years old when a classmate informed Mary (John); his brother Chris; and dery Club for many years. The many FOR LEASE VIRGINIA 5044 Broadway her that she was being reared by a stepmother as her ‘real’ mother had several cousins, nieces and friendships she cultivated through RESTAURANT-RETAIL-PROFES- New York, NY 10034 died in the United States. This stunning revelation explained to Ange- nephews. He was predeceased by her club and sorority affiliations SIONAL (212) 942-4000 line and her younger sister why they had been taunted as the “Ameri- his brothers Steven and Angelo. He were central to her life and those SHOPPING CENTERS. Toll Free 1-888-GAPOSTLE canakia” (the little Americans). Having been reared in Greece they was best known as one of Andover's close friends, like Stephanie Val, Great locations. Low rents had no memory of the United States where they had been born in 1917 most prolific educators and for his will miss her dearly. The funeral was TR PROPERTIES LITRAS FUNERAL HOME (Angeline) and 1918 (Rodopi), nor of their mother, Mercina Cacalis sense of humor, generosity, kind- held on November 1 at Saints Con- Fax: (276) 656-1577 ARLINGTON BENSON DOWD, Havas, who died in 1920 of the influenza “plague of death”. Their heartedness and boundless commit- stantine & Helen Greek Orthodox 467077/15880/11-10 INC FUNERAL HOME stepmother, Koralia Penakos, proved to be a loving, devoted, hard- ment to family and friends. Born in Church in Vallejo. Burial was at the 83-15 Parsons Blvd., working, frugal wife and mother. Unable to read or write she delegat- Allston in 1929, he was the oldest Carquinez Cemetery. Memorial do- FUNERAL HOMES Jamaica, NY 11432 ed to Angeline and Rodopi the responsibility of securing from the post son of James and Madeline Liponis, nations to the “Make a Wish Foun- (718) 858-4434 • (800) 245-4872 office their father’s letters from America. A superstitious woman she both of whom had immigrated to dation” or to Saints Constantine & CONSTANTINIDES cautioned them not to mention that they received money – thus avoid- the United States from Politsani, Helen Greek Orthodox Church FUNERAL PARLOR Co. ing the curse of the ‘evil eye’. When letters did not arrive she would Epirus, Greece. He spent his youth (1224 Alabama St., Vallejo 94590). 405 91st Street TO PLACE YOUR have Angeline take her cup to the gypsies to be ‘read’. When Angeline and teen years in Portland, Maine, Bay Ridge - Brooklyn, NY 11209 CLASSIFIED AD, CALL: had her palm read she was told that she “would travel a great dis- and attended Portland Junior Col- ■ ROWLAS, GEORGE (718) 745-1010 (718) 784-5255, EXT. 106, tance”. lege and Gorham State College. He FORT WAYNE, Ind. – The Fort Services in all localities - E-MAIL: One of Angeline’s vivid recollections was the day she was gathering married Bessie Christie of Andover, Wayne Newspapers reported that Low cost shipping to Greece classifieds@ thenationalherald.com almonds in the fields when the bright sky darkened ominously as she his lifelong love, confidante, best George Rowlas, 73, passed away on hit the upper branches of the tree with a long stick to cause the al- friend, in 1953, and the couple set- Friday, October 12, 2007, at monds to fall to the ground. Day suddenly turned into night – an eerie tled on High Street. Three months Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. feeling which caused her, and the other villagers, to run indoors and later, he entered the U.S. Army as a He is survived by his wife Jane hide behind closed doors. Years later her son, the astronomer Ted corporal and safety officer, serving White-Rowlas; his daughters Julie Pedas, identified the event to her as the two minute solar eclipse of in Korea from 1953-1955, where he Rowlas and Holly (John) Pantzer; Expand your mind... June 19, 1936. was decorated with three service his stepson Jeff (Elizabeth) White; The National Herald Bookstore On December 22, 1936 the 19 year old Angeline Havas was reunit- medals. Charlie was an entrepre- his stepdaughter Tracy White (718) 784-5255 ed with her father who had arranged her trip from Lemnos, Greece to neurial businessman who had a pas- (Dave); his mother Mary T. Rowlas; the United States, the country of her birth. While shopping at New sion for education. In 1961, he left his grandchildren Sophia Maria Castle's ‘Star Market’ the store's proprietor, Gust Talaganis, noticed An- his job at IBM and founded the An- Pantzer and Eleni Anne Pantzer; his geline and arranged an introduction and marriage “Proxinia” to his dover Institute of Business, original- step-grandchildren Eric Exner, Mor- friend Steve Pedas (Efstathios Tsimpedas), owner of the Broadway ly on Main Street, Andover (in the gan Elizabeth White and Emma Car- Cash Market, 745 Broadway Street in Farrell, Pa. building where Bertucci's now re- oline White; his brother Andrew Angeline’s future husband, Steve Pedas, a shepherd from the vil- sides). The institute grew to 11 Rowlas; his sister Joan (Nick) Smyr- lage of Doriza in the Peloponnesus, had in 1919 immigrated to west- schools including campuses in nis of Indianapolis; his nieces Jami ern Pennsylvania where he had secured employment at Farrell’s Boston, Brockton, Springfield, Lynn, (Bill) Frelise and Stephani (Sam) Calderon; and several great nieces subscribe Carnegie Steel Works. Having fulfilled his family obligation, raising Hartford, Nashua, N.H., Worcester PRINTED EDITION OF THE NATIONAL HERALD money for his family’s subsistence and his sisters’ dowries, he pur- and Portland, Maine. The schools and nephews. Born in Chicago, Ill., via the post-office: chased his steamship passage to return to Greece. He was perplexed taught students business skills from he retired as managing partner with ❏1 Month for $9.95 ❏3 Months for $19.95 that the palm reader he consulted found no evidence of a trip in his fu- key punching to stenography and George S. Olive & Co/BKD LLC, in ❏6 Months for $29.95 ❏One Year fo $59.85 ture. He was scheduled to depart upon withdrawing the savings he Charlie was a pioneer in computing, 1994. Previously he was the manag- had accumulated for his family’s use. On March 6, 1933 Steve Pedas offering the very fine courses in ing partner of George S. Olive & Co, VIA HOME DELIVERY (NY, NJ & CT): ❏1 Month for $12.95 ❏3 Months for $29.95 went to the Colonial Trust Company to withdraw his savings only to computer training. He successfully in Muncie and a partner in Indi- ❏ ❏ discover the insolvent bank was closed. He, along with other deposi- took the company public on the anapolis. He was a member of Holy 6 Months for $43.99 One Year for $80.00 tors, had lost their savings. To stop the run on bank funds, President NASDAQ exchange in 1970. Charlie Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and VIA HOME DELIVERY (NEW ENGLAND, PENNSYLVANIA, Roosevelt had closed the banks in an effort to resolve the nation’s eco- also founded Value Club of America, served as Parish president for Holy WASHINGTON D.C., VIRGINIA & MARYLAND) nomic crisis which had destroyed the banking system during the De- the Andover Tractor Trailer School Trinity Greek Orthodox Parish, Fort ❏1 Month for $15.95 ❏3 Months for $37.45 pression. in Methuen and most recently, Al- Wayne and Holy Trinity Greek Or- ❏6 Months for $51.75 ❏One Year for $99.00 Roosevelt’s “Emergency Banking Act” seemed to validate the palm lied Career and Driving Schools. thodox Parish, Indianapolis. He was ON LINE SUBSCRIPTION www.thenationalherald.com reader’s prophecy. Unable to finance a return trip to Greece the former The Andover Tractor Trailer School president of ARC of Allen County ❏ shepherd turned entrepreneur establishing a grocery store at the cor- taught students to drive 18-wheel- and ARC of Indiana. He served in NON SUBSCRIBERS: One Year for $29.95 ❏One Month for $3.95 ner of Broadway and Federal Street. ers and helped place them in jobs af- the U.S. Army during the Korean ❏ ❏ In 1938 Steve Pedas (Efstathios Tsimpedas) married Angeline (An- ter graduation. The school also Conflict and was a 1060 graduate of SUBSCRIBERS: One Year for $19.95 One Month for $1.95 geliki) Havas in the one room Greek church located above the store- taught diesel mechanics and was Indiana University. The funeral was front on Haywood Street (Roemer Boulevard). Their reception was one of the first schools to offer home held on October 16 at Holy Trinity NAME: ...... held at Farrell’s Italian Home. Fate has smiled on Steve and Angeline study and distance learning. Over Greek Orthodox Church in Fort ADDRESS: ...... Pedas who had both been orphaned of their mothers in childhood. In more than 20 years, the school has Wayne. Memorial donations to Holy CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... the postwar prosperity they set down roots in their adopted country trained thousands of students, help- Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... where their odyssey continues today through their children. ing them to successfully enter the AHEPA District 12 Scholarship Fund PLEASE SEND A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION TO: The children of Steve and Angeline Pedas remain indebted to their work force. Charlie had a tremen- or ARC of Indiana. NAME: ...... parents and grandparents for their sacrifices, courage, and uncondi- dous love of life and he brought his tional love, all of which launched them into a world of unprecedented keen sense of humor and positive ADDRESS: ...... CITY:...... STATE: ...... ZIP:...... opportunities. “With every breath we take they are with us, golden spirit to everyone around him and This is a service and true, welcoming each new day”. all of his endeavors. He loved travel- to the community. TEL.: ...... E-MAIL:...... CELL...... Web site: Angeline Havas Pedas: ing and exploring new places and Announcements of deaths Please specify method of payment http://www.nauticom.net/www/planet/files/Fam-Havas.html made many trips throughout the may be telephoned to the I enclose a check/money order for $ ...... made payable to: United States and abroad. His fa- The National Herald, Inc., 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY 11101 - 2614 Classified Department of ❏ ❏ ❏ vorite places included Las Vegas, At- The National Herald at or please debit my Mastercard Visa American Express lantic City and Foxwoods, where (718) 784-5255, CARD NUMBER: ...... Explore one could find him happily raising Monday through Friday, EXPIRATION DATE: ...... SIGNATURE:...... The National Herald and bluffing at the poker tables until The National Herald 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST on-line the very wee hours. Charlie was an or e-mailed to: anytime, anywhere... www.thenationalherald.com active member and benefactor of [email protected] the Greek Orthodox Church and THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 GREECE CYPRUS 9 Archbishop Christodoulos SPORTS Returns to his Ithaca Athens Marathon Continued from page 1 Chrysostomos of Peristeri, Metro- Organizers Seek politan Symeon of Nea Smyrni, I can say that depending on my Metropolitan Nikolaos of Mesoga- day-to-day condition, I will deal ia, Metropolitan Pavlos of Kozani Higher Profile with issues involving the adminis- [former Pastor of St. Demetrios tration of our Church, returning to Cathedral in Astoria], Metropolitan ATHENS, Greece (AP) – Distance my duties so to speak, which I had Daniel of Kaisariani, and Metropol- running began along the fabled set aside for two months now. I itan Seraphim of Piraeus. There route from Marathon to Athens, want to believe that along with all were other bishops that wanted to where a messenger ran to bring your support, God will provide for attend the welcoming ceremony news of one of the greatest military the best. I hope and pray for this,” but could not due to prior engage- victories in ancient history. the leader of the Church of Greece ments because of the major feast of Organizers of the modern Athens said, in what some perceived as a St. Demetrios, which was being cel- Marathon, however, conceded message to all those who had be- ebrated that day. Wednesday that the annual Greek gan whispering about possible suc- Mrs. Bakoyanni welcomed the race remains eclipsed by world's ma- cessors in light of his poor health, Archbishop by wishing him that “all jor marathons and announced a se- while Archbishop Christodoulos may go well, and always be well.” ries promotional measures to make was away in Miami. Meanwhile, Greece’s Prime Minis- the classic course better known. The jet on which the Greek ter Costas Karamanlis and First La- Ahead of Sunday's event, prelate arrived reached Athens at lit- dy Natasha Karamanlis, who could marathon organizers from interna- tle after 2 p.m. last Friday, but not attend in person because they tional races will meet at a confer- preparations for his official welcome were in Thessaloniki attending cer- ence, a sporting trade fair will be back had been completed much ear- emonies marking the city’s anniver- held this weekend, and schools lier. A red carpet was rolled out for sary of independence, sent flowers along the classic route will join spec- him, and when Archbishop and a get-well card. tator events during the race itself. Christodoulos reached the aircraft Initially, plans called for Arch- “These events will take place exit and began to wave to by- bishop Christodoulos to speak with every year,” Greek National Athlet- standers, the adoring crowd broke the media at the airport’s press ics Federation president Vassilis Sev- into an applause, touching the Arch- room, but it was later decided astis said. “We have a long way to bishop’s heart. The Air Force battal- against this so that the Archbishop go, but runners are becoming con- ion that was lined up on the landing could go straight to his home and vinced that the race is being now or- strip saluted the Archbishop accord- rest following the long trip. A few ganized in a serious way. This race is ing to protocol, while Greece’s hundred meters away from the air- special not just because of the histo- charismatic spiritual leader stepped port taxiway where the Archbish- ry but also because, in Greece, it is a off the plane and began to shake op’s jet had landed, a crowd of route along which peace rallies are hands and chat with colleagues and well-wishers had gathered, but Returning Home held and has a broader importance.” people dear to him, who he had not could not approach any closer due The Greek race traces the run of seen for the past 68 days. to airport security. Archbishop of Greece Christodoulos returned to Athens on October 26, 2007. The Archbishop landed a lit- the messenger Pheidippides in 490 Along with Foreign Minister Do- Following his official welcome, tle after 2 p.m. and was greeted by an adoring crowd of supporters. B.C. from the plain of Marathon to ra Bakoyanni, high level Greek as his car was leaving the airport Athens, where legend says he col- Government officials on hand in- heading for his home in the Athens Dozens of faithful were also wait- one feels safer and more blessed. I all the delegates at the World Confer- lapsed and died after announcing cluded Education and Religious Af- suburb of Psychiko, the crowd of ing with flowers in hand, and ran to want to send my wishes to every- ence on Dialogue among Religions the victory of the Greeks over Per- fairs Minister Evripidis Stylianidis, supporters approached to catch a kiss his hand and express their sup- one, beginning with the Greek Gov- and Civilizations taking place in sian invaders. The marathon was Health and Social Solidarity Minis- glimpse of their spiritual leader. port in the difficult battle he has ernment, which spared no expense Ohrid to pray for Archbishop first run as a race when the ter Demetris Avramopoulos, and Meanwhile, flowers and get-well been facing over the recent to secure the necessary accommo- Christodoulos’ heath. Mr. Milososki’s Olympics were revived as modern Deputy Foreign Minister Theodoros cards from friends, colleagues, months. The Archbishop made it a dations to continue the procedure request was accepted by the confer- games in 1896 in Athens. The annu- Kassimis. politicians and faithful from all point to state that the day was a that we began in Miami. Next, the ence delegates who were in FYROM al race in Athens still ends at the Main opposition party PASOK over Greece began to arrive at the touching one because he was re- bishops, the clergy and all the faith- for the three-day conference, which marble Panathenian stadium where was represented by Parliament Archbishop’s home from early that turning home to continue his strug- ful people, who overwhelmed me lasted from October 26 – 28. those games were held. Members Tilemachos Chitiris and morning. gle. with letters, telegrams, phone calls Christodoulos was supposed to The Greek course, with its steep Yannis Ragousis, who is also party Archbishop Christodoulos’ “I hope to win this battle too. I and wishes for things to get better start his new round of treatments inclines, is held on the same day Press Secretary. Members of the beloved brother and his closest am returning home with this in than they are today – which is what on Tuesday, but doctors decided to each year as the New York Marathon Church’s Holy Synod were also pre- coworkers waited at the steps of his mind; so I can be next to people I believe in my heart,” postpone that till after some more and attracts much fewer runners. sent, including Metropolitan Efs- home to welcome him, and the who are dear to me, in a family en- Meanwhile, FYROM’s Foreign tests are run on the ailing Arch- Last year, a record 38,368 run- tathios of Sparta, Metropolitan Archbishop heartily greeted them. vironment, in my homeland, where Minister Antonio Milososki called on bishop. ners started in New York, compared to 3,090 in Athens. About 4,100 marathon runners are registered for Sunday's race. Starting next year, Athens orga- nizers are planning to change the Greek Asylum Practices Criticized date. Efforts to upgrade the Athens By Slobodan Lekic to deter the entry of illegal immi- tugal as transit points to other EU event began in 2001, when officials grants,” deputy government nations, like Germany, France and from the Boston Marathon visited ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Human spokesman Evangelos Antonaros Sweden. Greece and came up with a long list rights groups accused the Greek said. “Under no circumstances do Greece has seen a surge in illegal of recommendations _ including ba- Coast Guard on Monday of system- we use methods that are incompati- immigration this year. Around sic improvements like installing atically trying to swamp the boats of ble with the respect of human rights 18,000 people have been detained more water stops along the course refugees heading for Europe. Greece and human life.” in 2007, up sharply from the 8,000 and providing better medical ser- denied the allegations. Antonaros added that the num- caught during all of 2005. So far this vices. Greek Coast Guard vessels regu- ber of people trying to enter the year, 44 people have drowned and The 2004 Olympics in Athens larly engage in “life-threatening ma- country illegally has spiked recently. 54 are listed as missing. helped, too. neuvers,” such as circling the rickety “Over the past two and a half Asylum-seekers in Greece in- “The route was resurfaced and boats and creating large waves that clude an increasing number of improved. People also watched the could swamp them, said a report is- Iraqis, many of them Christians. In race on television and became sued by refugee rights group Pro Greek authorities say the first six months of this year, aware of the history,” Sevastis said. Asyl and the European Council on that most of the illegal some 3,500 Iraqis applied for asy- “I don't think we will ever be as Refugees and Exiles. entrants are not lum in Greece. popular as other marathons but im- Other tactics include pushing the The report from the rights groups provements are being made steadi- boats out of Greek waters, or punc- refugees but migrants extended criticism to the whole Eu- ly. This was the first year our Web turing rubber dinghies so they'll from poor nations ropean Union, denouncing the asy- site was working fully year-round sink, it said. seeking employment. lum policy of the 27-nation bloc and and accepting applications for the “This appears to have become saying its objective was to bar race.” systematic in recent years,” said months we have received an unusu- refugees rather than to protect African runners have dominated Marianna Tzeferakou from Amnesty ally high number of illegal immi- them. in Athens in recent years, and lead International Greece. “But this is not grants,” he told The Associated “EU nations wash their hands of Sunday's rankings. AP PHOTO/ GREEK CULTURE MINISTRY/HO only a national matter, it is a Euro- Press. “In the past three days alone, the responsibility for refugees while Henry Tarus of Kenya returns to Returned Antiquities pean matter because it's a result of 1,181 people were arrested — and humanitarian dramas unfold at the defend his 2006 title, facing com- the EU putting pressure on the about 600 deported — either for be- borders of Europe,” Pro-Asyl mem- petition from Patrick Chumba and Miniature Neolithic figures of women dating back more than 7,000 Greek government to seal off its bor- ing illegally in the country or for try- ber Karl Kopp said. Steven Loruo, the winner of this years are seen in this undated handout photo provided by the Greek ders.” ing to enter illegally. This is a vast But Greek authorities say that year's Hong Kong Marathon. Culture Ministry on Tuesday, October 30, 2007. The artifacts are part A Greek government spokesman number, larger than that faced by most of the illegal entrants are not Svetlana Ponomarenko of Rus- of a stolen collection of 94 Neolithic works returned to Greece from denied that authorities endangered any other European country.” refugees but ordinary migrants from sia, the winner of the 2006 Dallas Germany, that were presented Tuesday by Culture Minister Michalis migrants' lives. Most asylum-seekers use Greece poor nations in the Middle East and Marathon, leads the women's field, Liapis. Archaeologists said the "expressive" figurines may have been “Greece categorically denies that and other southern European na- South Asia seeking employment and followed by Russian runner Victo- modeled on real people. it uses violent and inhuman means tions such as Malta, Spain and Por- a better life. ria Zueva. Panel Recommends that Israeli Government Recognize Theophilos

By Evan C. Lambrou within the next few weeks, is consid- Jerusalem. nized accordingly. (during a daily press briefing on Oc- ment’s interest has been directed pri- Special to The National Herald ered significant because of the “We are committed to respecting “This step strengthens relations tober 25), “First of all, she attended marily toward the real estate assets in Church’s extensive property holdings the integrity and freedoms of all reli- between the Orthodox Church and this meeting of an already organized the Church’s possession. NEW YORK – After a two-year delay, in Jerusalem and throughout Israel. gious communities, and this decision the Jewish community, and will con- group, of which (Theofilos) was a The Greek Orthodox Church, a ministerial committee on Greek Or- “This is a necessary and fitting is in keeping with that principle,” said tribute positively to Greek-Israeli re- part. It was part of an interfaith dia- which retains the largest Christian thodox Patriarchate Affairs recom- move,” said Pensioner Affairs Party Rabbi David Rosen, AJC’s interna- lations and Jewish-Greek relations logue that took place in Jerusalem. presence in Israel and the Palestinian mended that the Israeli Government Minister Rafi Eitan. He had reached a tional director of Inter-Religious Af- around the world,” Rabbi Rosen said. This is a group that defines its own territories, is one of the largest pri- officially recognize Theofilos III as decision on the extremely sensitive fairs. “We look forward to the Israeli Laws dating back to Ottoman membership for itself. She met with vate landowners in the country, with Jerusalem’s Greek Orthodox Patri- issue, he added, after “dozens” of Government’s speedy implementa- times stipulate that all the govern- that group. In terms of the dispute extensive property holdings in the arch, officials said this past Monday, meetings on the subject since he was tion of this recommendation.” ments in the region must formally ap- that you’re talking about, that’s not Jerusalem region, to include the land October 29. appointed head of the ministerial The decision follows persistent ef- prove the election of any new Greek something the United States is party on which the Knesset stands. An esti- The move is considered a “major panel three months ago. forts by AJC and other Jewish and in- Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem. To- to. Our view is that this is not a mat- mated one fifth of the Old City be- step forward” in the recognition The panel vote was 3-1, with Agri- ternational groups to resolve the day, those governments are Israel, ter that involves the United States longs to the Church. process, sources told the National culture Minister Shalom Simhon and matter, and have Theofilos recog- Jordan, the Palestinian Authority and Government, but is instead an inter- Records of conversations and doc- Herald, although the same sources Justice Minister Daniel Friedmann Qatar. nal issue with the Church, and also a uments obtained by Israeli newspa- were also cautious about whether the joining Mr. Eitan in favor of recogniz- Theofilos’ election was approved matter between the Church and the pers clearly show that cabinet minis- Israeli Government would actually ing Theofilos, and Religious Affairs by the Jordanians and the Palestini- Israeli Government.” ters had made recognition of Theofi- make it official. Minister Yitzhak Cohen opposing the ans (Qatar also approved), but re- The controversy started in March los conditional upon his selling prop- The move came as a bit of a sur- move. mains held up by Israel. Israel had 2005, after it was reported in an Is- erties to Jews. Former Minister Tzahi prise, sources said, because the Is- Mr. Cohen announced he would previously backed the former patri- raeli newspaper that that Ateret Co- Hanegbi, who headed the committee raeli Government did not expect the appeal the decision before the Knes- arch, Eirineos I, who was ousted after hanim, a Jewish-interests organiza- when it was established, admitted panel to move so quickly, and was set general assembly. If he makes a controversial land transaction in tion, had questionably acquired four that he asked Theofilos to promise probably expecting further delays in good on his threat, Theofilos will Jerusalem outraged Palestinian hotels from the Patriarchate in not to disrupt the sale of the hotels to the process. have to wait for the Knesset to con- Christians. Jerusalem’s Old City near Jaffa Gate. Jews as one of the conditions for Is- But Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi firm his appointment in order for it to The panel’s decision, thought to The sale aroused widespread anger rael’s recognition of him. Livni reportedly stated to the panel be considered official. have been spurred by American pres- among the Palestinian public, and There were also reports in Israel, that failure or refusal to recognize Theofilos nonetheless immediate- sure and the personal involvement of several months later, the Church’s rejected by Theofilos, that he under- Theofilos – more than two years after ly welcomed the long-awaited panel U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza governing synod decided to depose took to cede control of these sensitive his unanimous election by represen- decision. Rice, is supposed to put an end to a Eirineos, although Eirineos claimed properties to Jordan and the Pales- tatives from all Orthodox Churches “We greet this decision with convoluted affair during the course the long-term leasing arrangement tinians. Israel delayed his appoint- on August 22, 2005 – is causing Israel tremendous appreciation. I hope this of which various parties in Israel have had taken place without his knowl- ment in the wake of suspicion of his enormous embarrassment at the decision will sort out all kinds of past tried to base the Patriarch’s appoint- edge. intentions to allow Jordan and the global level. misunderstandings,” he told mem- ment on his agreeing to sell real es- Eirineos, with Israel’s support, still Palestinians to get an inside look at The panel’s decision was made bers of the Israeli press. tate properties to Jewish groups. refuses to accept his dismissal, argu- the list of Church real estate holdings, late last Sunday, October 28, follow- Theofilos did not commit to any The official American position is ing that Nicos Papadimas, a former estimated to be of higher value than ing intense international pressure. obligations toward Israeli officials re- that the prospective official recogni- aide, signed documents without his the Jewish National Fund’s real es- The decision came less than a month garding Church property, although tion of Theofilos as Patriarch of knowledge. Mr. Papadimas, who is tate possessions. before the Israeli High Court of Jus- he did make assurances to the panel Jerusalem is strictly between the wanted by Interpol for allegedly em- Theofilos appealed to the High tice was expected to rule on a petition that “everything will be done in the Church and the Israeli Government. bezzling millions of dollars from the Court after notification that his ap- filed by Theofilos to instruct the Is- most appropriate and lawful way.” When asked why Dr. Rice met Patriarchate’s coffers, fled Israel and pointment would not be recognized. raeli Government to recognize his The panel’s decision was also with Theofilos in Bethlehem on Octo- remains at-large (he is believed to be election. greeted with optimism by the Ameri- ber 17, and for the U.S. Govern- in South America). The above incorporates informa- The committee’s recommenda- can Jewish Committee, which wel- ment’s views on Theofilos’ official Political sensitivity surrounding tion from reports published by the tion, which is expected to be ap- comed the recommendation to con- AP/KEVIN FRAYER recognition, State Department the person who heads the Church in Jerusalem Post, Haaretz and the proved by the Israeli Government firm Theofilos’ status as Patriarch of Patriarch Theofilos of Jerusalem Spokesman Sean McCormack said Jerusalem aside, the Israeli Govern- PR Newswire on October 29. 10 EDITORIALS LETTERS THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 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 Happy Birthday To The Herald convention city will be able to in- I hope that AHEPA survives to do This especially applies to the to the Greek American community of the United States of America. From Longtime Subscribers fluence the outcome of the election good work in the future. theological school in Brookline, because “a large local chapter will Thrasyvoulos “Ted” Maroulis Massachusetts which trains the fu- Publisher-Editor Antonis H. Diamataris To the Editor: have more people voting.” I am sur- Norfolk, Virginia ture religious leaders of our com- On the 10th year of your publi- prised that Mr. Mossaidis doesn’t munities. Personal and circumstan- Assistant to Publisher, Advertising Veta H. Diamataris Papadopoulos cation, I would like to wish you, understand that it will be the entire tial problems have never ceased to Managing Editor Evan C. Lambrou “Happy Birthday and many, many AHEPA membership of about exist. The institutions always re- Production Manager Chrysoula Karametros We Need To Focus On Some Of more.” 15,000 members that will be voting The Positives Of Our Church main invaluable, however, and Webmaster Alexandros Tsoukias As your subscriber from the very for officers and not only the mem- must be supported in every way – The National Herald (USPS 016864) is published weekly by first day, in addition to the Greek bers of the local convention chapter To the Editor: above persons and circumstances. The National Herald Inc. at 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 daily newspaper, Εθνικός Κήρυξ, I or the about 250 delegates that at- I always follow the news you Thank you for your consideration. Tel: (718)784-5255, Fax: (718)472-0510, have followed the English-lan- tend the convention. transmit through your newspaper Charles Poulos e-mail: [email protected] guage edition’s success. My family The Executive Director attempts with great interest, and so I wish to Lincoln, Massachusetts and I have enjoyed reading every to tell us that “the AHEPA system is thank you and congratulate you for Democritou 1 and Academias Sts, Athens, 10671, Greece Tel: 011.30.210.3614.598, Fax: 011.30.210.3643.776, e-mail: [email protected] page. like the Federal system.” What he this work. It is most valuable for the The community needs this pa- fails to realize is that the Electoral omogeneia, both for the informa- Subscriptions by mail: 1 year $59.85, 6 months $29.95, 3 months $19.95, 1 month $9.95 per. Always be true to the Hellenic College casts its votes only on the tion and for the promotion of the Home delivery NY, NJ, CT: 1 year $80.00, 6 months $43.99, 3 months $29.99, 1 month $12.95 Spirit. results of the will of the electorate. Greek language, which must be TO OUR READERS Home delivery New England States, Pennsylvania & Washington DC: Yiota & Dimitris Stratis and As to the delegates that attend the maintained. 1 year $99.00, 6 months $51.75, 3 months $37.45, 1 month $15.95 Family convention, I would like to know Allow me, however, a specific The National Herald welcomes On line subscription: Non subscribers: 1 year $29.95, 1 month $3.95; letters from its readers intended Subscribers: 1 year $19.95, 1 month $1.95 Astoria, NY how many AHEPA chapters send observation and suggestion con- delegates to a convention to repre- cerning the content. I see that you for publication. They should in- Periodical postage paid at L.I.C. NY and additional mailing offices. sent the will of the membership. easily magnify personal and cir- clude the writer’s name, address, Postmaster send change of address to: Director Mossaidis knows full cumstantial problems and scandals and telephone number and be THE NATIONAL HERALD, 37-10 30th Street, LIC, NY 11101-2614 A Challenge To AHEPA’s “One- well how the present system works. which arise from time to time, es- addressed to: The Editor, The Na- Man One-Vote” Election Process The ego-filled party leaders select a pecially in the Church. What is tional Herald, 37-10 30th Street, Brother for higher office, and in missing, however, is the positive at- Long Island City, NY 11101. To the Editor: some cases pay the expenses of the titude and support which we all AHEPA Executive Director Mos- delegates to attend the convention owe to the Church and its institu- Letters can also be faxed to (718) Holy Land Comes to Washington saidis’s letter of September 1, 2007 so these votes can be controlled. I tions for the great benefits they of- 472-0510 or e-mailed to was received with much amuse- know how the system works, so fer us. english.edition@thenationalher- At press time, we learned that Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem was ment. Is Brother Mossaidis trying to don’t make any excuses. If the pre- I want to suggest to you then, in ald.com. We reserve the right to coming to Washington this coming Sunday, November 4, for a four-day visit defend a system of elections that he sent system is so great, maybe Di- a brotherly spirit, that you need to edit letters for publication and re- to Washington, under the auspices of the recently formed Council of Reli- knows full well is controlled by a rector Mossaidis will disclose the express more often and pointedly gret that we are unable to ac- gious Institutions of the Holy Land. few party members who do not average age of the delegates and the recognition and support we knowledge or return those left This organization is important in that it provides a single forum for all the want to give up control? the reason one hardly finds young, need to give to the Church for its unpublished. religions in the Holy Land, including the Chief Rabbis of Israel, the Muslim Director Mossaidis tells us that energetic professionals attending weighty contributions to our com- Chiefs and Patriarch Theophilos, as well as the other resident Christian sects under the “one-man one-vote,” the the convention. munity. in Jerusalem. The stated purpose of the visit, according to the organizers, is to “bring their message of hope and cooperation to the religious and political leaders of the United States” on a trip paid for by the United States Agency for Inter- ANALYSIS national development. It was not yet clear what the organizers really hoped to accomplish by this visit, but the press in Israel has chosen to interpret the recent meeting between the Patriarch and Secretary of State Rice in Bethlehem, and his up- coming visit, as official U.S. Government support for the Patriarch’s dispute We Ought to Agonize About What the Future Holds with Israel. It is also of welcome significance that an inter-ministerial panel has now By Theodore Kalmoukos very property of the parish, “most ios of Boston is approaching 61; right due to a lack of strategy or recommended to the Israeli Government that it should finally – after more Special to The National Herald notably its land and buildings, Gerasimos of San Francisco is 62; proper planning for an alternative than two years – push ahead with officially recognizing Theophilos as the could be seized to satisfy the judg- and Alexios of Atlanta is 64. Only solution. Moreover, the next arch- Greek Orthodox Patriarch of the Holy Land. From all indications, the Greek ment.” Nicholas of Detroit, 54, and Evange- bishop would have to be a weak The Olmert Government announced the creation of the committee – but Orthodox Archdiocese of America Have we even begun to realize los of New Jersey, 46, could be con- leader in order to be kept “under never assembled it – two years ago as a way of putting off a decision. It used has been treading on a similar path the magnitude of the dangers which sidered “young bishops.” control.” Rev. Alex Karloutsos who, the promise to have the committee meet as a way of getting extensions on as Roman Catholic Church has been have reared their ugly head and It would definitely be a good in the name of the Patriarch acts as court action. The Israeli High Court finally put an end to the ruse about six walking on for the last 4-5 years be- threaten the very existence of both thing if at least some of the older the “real Exarch” in the United months ago and ordered the Government to have the committee collect evi- cause of its clergy-pedophilia scan- our parish communities and the bishops decide to retire. What can States, and will most definitely try dence and decide something. The testimony they heard was universally of dals. Archdiocese as a whole? the Church expect from an aged hi- to install his “own guy” in order to the type delivered by the Israeli Foreign Minister: The story published in this The situation can not be allowed erarch? I am fully aware of that simply continue doing “his thing,” “We may have a point, but the international publicity is ruining Israel’s week’s edition about Holy Trinity to continue as is. Our parishes can “bishop for life” applies to all hierar- which is technically to advise the image, and causing Israel enormous problems abroad. Our position is irre- Church in Dallas’ special solicitation not continue to constantly ask for, chs, but sensitivity and self-respect Archons and manage the Church’s trievable, so we might as well give it up.” of funds to cover an expected or demand, money from their faith- should also prevail. After all, the big-money foundations, as he has That’s right, and with all due respect, the position is also untenable. $250,000 in legal fees – to defend ful members. It’s fairly clear that the canons of the Church were also been doing throughout most of his The panel’s decision is definitely a step forward, but the Church in the parish from a lawsuit brought well is beginning to dry up, and we written for philanthropic purposes. career. Jerusalem is not out of the woods yet. The committee has recommended against the parish due to allegations are probably approaching a time What can an 80-90-year-old man I don’t believe that a strong and that the Government accept the inevitable last week, but two committee of sexual misconduct with minors when a growing number of parishes offer the Church from an adminis- decent hierarch, under these cir- members dissented, and have threatened to fight the decision in the full cab- against its former pastor, Nicholas are unable to afford a priest. There trative standpoint? Generally cumstances, would accept an invi- inet. The full cabinet was supposed to meet earlier this week to consider the Katinas – should concern everyone are at least 15 parishes in the Me- speaking, not much. tation to become the next Archbish- recommendation, but has put it off. in the Archdiocese, especially the tropolis of Boston which can not The next question which natu- op of America. Who in his right Enough is enough. The Israeli Government’s concerns are unwarranted, laity. After all, it is the laity which is sustain a fulltime priest, for exam- rally arises is also crucial: Who is mind would want to have Karlout- and it turns out that the main stumbling block throughout the process to of- struggling to find the money to sup- ple. going to replace today’s Archbishop sos undermining him day and ficially recognize the legitimately elected Patriarch of Jerusalem has been port and sustain our parishes. My question is simple: Where do and the older hierarchs after they’re night? the Patriarchate’s vast real estate holdings, and outside parties’ greed aimed All faithful who go to church on we go from here, and what type of a gone? For the sake of discussion, if One more thing: If we read the thereto. Sunday morning are volunteers, in- Church are we going to be 25-50 Archbishop Demetrios relinquishes list of the candidates for the Episco- That’s a shameful imposition on any Church’s religious freedom, and cluding parish council members, years from now? his position tomorrow, I’m afraid pate carefully, meaning those who Theophilos has had to endure considerable and unjustified hardship. but not the clergy, starting from the Our hierarchy at the Archdiocese that the Church in America will find will someday replace our existing To further crystallize the matter, let’s put it in concrete and practical Archbishop, the Metropolitans and is of advanced age, well past the itself in much the same position as hierarchs, we can shed a few tears, terms: What precisely does it signify when the Israeli Government does not the priests, all of whom are salaried technical retirement age of 65. in August of 1999, when Archbish- or start pulling our hair out. officially recognize the Patriarch? Among other things, Theophilos can not – and some of whom enjoy extreme- Archbishop Demetrios is past 80; op Spyridon was ousted. Are we genuinely concerned receive his mail, nor access the Patriarchate’s bank account. In other words, ly lofty salaries. How does the Arch- Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago is In other words, unless it has al- about the Church’s future? Are we he is restricted from even the most basic of administrative functions. diocese justify a base salary of approaching his 80th birthday; Isa- ready started thinking about these agonizing over what the next That’s just outrageous, and members of the Israeli Government who have $200,000 for a priest, plus benefits? iah of Denver is in his late 70’s; and things, the Ecumenical Patriarchate decade might bring, what the lead- been supportive of “getting this over with” are right to feel embarrassed for The most disturbing aspect of Maximos of Pittsburgh is 72. would be completely unprepared. ership of the Church would be to- their country, which is the world’s greatest interfaith center for Muslims, the letter sent to Dallas parishioners The younger bishops are ap- Bartholomew will panic once again, morrow? If we’re not, we ought to Christians and Jews, but which has singled out its largest Christian presence, is the alarming concern that the proaching retirement age: Method- and he will start searching left and be. the Orthodox, by persecuting their Patriarch. Some like to think the problem is a result of religious tension between Christians and Jews, but that’s too simplistic – even ignorant. Muslims, Christians and Jews have lived together in the Holy Land for centuries in tol- COMMENTARY erance and relative peace – until the politics of greed decide to stir the hor- net’s nest and inflame the situation unnecessarily. All we need to do to disprove arguments for intolerance between Chris- tians and Jews is look right here in America, still the beacon of freedom and Decision-Making: A Process That Reveals Policies a model for the rest of the world to follow. The American Jewish Committee has been one of the staunchest support- ers of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Jerusalem’s right to govern its own By Dr. Nikolaos A. Stavrou controlled structure which hardly macy. This ancient art, the spear- captured in published photographs; affairs and elect its own patriarch, and has consistently pushed the Israeli Special to The National Herald provides security to is own mem- head in the implementation of deci- print space consumed in social Government to do the right thing. bers. In its current form, it can be sions, is now divided in actual and columns; and the like. Though im- AJC is to be lauded for taking this stand on religious liberty, and is living In the good old days when uni- characterized as a power-rental public diplomacy, with the latter in- portant in a limited way, such quan- institutional proof that Christians and Jews can, and do, get along quite versities taught critical thinking in- agency, making itself available for crementally being privatized and tifications are hardly evidence of well. stead of memoranda writing, schol- global policing activities, and for designed to camouflage both the foreign policy successes, as they are AJC’s wisdom and friendship is but one shining example of American ars of world affairs would engage in what is euphemistically called essence of decisions and the purpose usually decoupled from any coher- open-mindedness, forbearance and acceptance of others. There are many systematic analytical speculations “peacemaking.” Tailoring foreign and interests for which they are ent decision-making process. More- others, too numerous to detail in this limited space. But the point, hopefully, aimed at deciphering foreign policy policy decisions to the needs of an made. over, they offer no clue on what re- has been sufficiently made: It’s not about Christian rights or Jewish rights in formulations of states by dissecting alliance, therefore, inevitably leads Legitimate decisions are the action to expect from a sovereign the Holy Land. It’s about religious freedom and tolerance. their decision-making process. The to mortgaging sovereignty. products of de jure designated state state during seasons of “bad weath- purpose of such exercises was to de- In the post-Cold War environ- actors, with their role and sphere of er” in world politics. And as stated termine whether patterns in deci- ment, knowing what to expect from competence clearly defined, always above, understanding what your ad- sion-making could justify pre- potential adversaries, as well as in conformity with the uniqueness versaries are “cooking up” by follow- dictability of policies a state might from “friends,” can only be deduced of the political system in which they ing their patterns of decision-mak- Citizens of the world adopt to defend its interest in risky via analytical models which accept operate and subject to moral, legal ing could help in choosing suitable environment. the centrality of national interest, and (depending on the type of sys- responses. Similarly, if your adver- As a publication which caters largely to a Greek American audience, we Some common sense assump- not via interests of collective securi- tem) political accountability. In busi- saries have a pretty good idea of make extended efforts to provide news and stories of particular interest, but tions underline the quest for pre- ty organizations. ness, economics, public and foreign your likely reaction to one of their we also try to tie our community’s narrower concerns to larger ones. dictability in foreign policy. It is as- Though the theoretical frame- policies, accountability would be provocations, it could temper or ex- At the same time, it is our obligation to try and look beyond those con- sumed that it is important to know work of “decision-making” is more meaningless if there is no estab- acerbate their behavior. Confusing cerns which never seem to go away: e.g., the Cyprus problem, FYROM’s pro- who decides on what issues; on than 60 years old, one should not be lished yardstick by which one can image with reality always precludes paganda and ongoing oppression of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. what types of information the deci- surprised to find, even in the age of measure the efficacy of decisions. effective response, however, and But the injustices in the Balkans and the Eastern Mediterranean – impor- sion is based on; by what personal or high technology, national leaders In foreign policy, in particular, ef- dissipates energies in crisis manage- tant as they are to us, and though they should be more important to Ameri- national values it is influenced; and who adopt approaches to interna- ficacy can not be measured without ment instead of shaping events. cans and the rest of the Western world – almost pale in significance when what factors motivate the making of tional relations which would make a first establishing a discernible and Though it sounds elementary, the stacked against a problem which concerns the whole of humankind: the a decision – e.g., is it a crisis or a thinking person scratch his head in popularly understood core of inter- first question one asks about deci- Earth itself. choice? amazement. For example, some ests which a nation seeks to promote sions in foreign policy is, “Who ulti- The American southeast is drying up with severe draught; millions stand It is also assumed that answers to contemporary decision-makers, and defend. National leaders will mately makes them.” The first per- to be affected by the loss of unreplenished water supplies. Lake Chad, which these questions assure a level cer- Greeks among them, seem averse to obviously make different types of son who comes to mind, of course, is provides water to 37 million people in four African countries, has shrunk by tainty about the likely actions a state “deciding” anything in a logical decisions if they firmly believe, as a person designated for that field, some 40 percent in the last four decades. The Amazon jungle is constantly might opt for in response to a crisis, manner by linking issues to vital in- some in Greece do, that national no matter what his or her title is being cut down, at an alarming rate. The Chinese are pouring led and other or to advance long-term interests. terest. Yet they are eager to articu- identity is irrelevant; borders are an (e.g., foreign minister, commissar heavy metals into their rivers and streams like there’s no tomorrow, and Knowing the intentions of friends, late what they think is expected of obstacle to commerce; immigration for foreign affairs, secretary of they’re buying up endangered species in black market trading posts so they competitors and enemies is, or them, and vainly hope to please the is a human right; diversity is to be state). Bus in almost all cases, not a can eat things like tiger paw and genitals (there are less than 5,000 tigers left ought to be, the primary concern of big boys. Indeed, in the post-Cold sanctified; nationalism is a social single individual decides, and not all in the wild, but poachers know there’s a great market for tigers and other en- foreign policymakers. The era of po- War Greece, for example, there malady; history needs re-writing; systems have the same process. dangered species in China). litical correctness has not, after all, seems to be an inverse correlation and “offensive” symbols must be de- Three things must be present in Finally, the honeybee population is starting to decline, with some experts negated the fact that the nation- between the inability of leaders to molished. making rational decisions: a formal predicting that there may not be any honeybees left in America by 2035. Be- state is still the relevant organizing influence regional events with ratio- DUBIOUS YARDSTICKS structure which is receptive to di- cause honeybees play a key role in pollinating our agricultural resources, concept of a world system in perma- nally conceived decisions and their Different types of national deci- verse information, rather than a that’s a serious threat to our food supply. nent conflict. eagerness to hide behind meaning- sions will be made, on the other kitchen table approach; an undis- We are not only Greeks, we are citizens of the world, and we must be MORTGAGING SOVEREIGNTY less principles. Generally speaking, hand, if one adopts President Calvin putable linkage of decisions to core aware of the world’s environmental problems. But besides playing our part The belief that alliances, formed these types of decision-makers seem Coolidge’s slightly paraphrased national values; and a clearly de- in environmental conservation, what else can we do? We can pray. to provide collective security, would satisfied with scoring debate points cliché (espoused by many contem- fined set of vital interests. When In the Book of Revelation, it says we can expect a “new Heaven and a new lessen the burden on national lead- and dazzling audiences with elo- porary leaders): “The business of a these requirements are absent, ex- Earth; for the first Heaven and the first Earth had passed away (21.1).” ers to think in “national terms” quent rhetoric and photogenic per- government is business.” But in the ternal influences intrude into na- Christ also tells John, “Behold, I make all things new (21.5)… Let the evildo- when making decisions has proven sonalities which privilege and information age, roles have been tional agendas, and private interests er still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and to be a costly fallacy for small states celebrity status has bestowed upon confused, and checks and balances reduce decision-makers into errant the holy still be holy (22.10).” with vain leaders. As recent events them. Yet these leaders seem fully between and within institutions boys in search of big roles. With teenage boys stabbing their own brothers with sharp objects in prove, major defense alliances like persuaded that their “actions” – ego- have all but vanished. Now, success- the head, and with rampant child abuse, the world is definitely becoming NATO have little in common with centered atmospherics, actually – es or failures in foreign policy are Dr. Nikolaos A. Stavrou is profes- a more evil place. But as faithful Greek Orthodox Christians, we must re- the vision of their creators. In the fi- can supplant reality when it comes measured by dubious yardsticks, sor emeritus at Howard Universi- main cognizant that, ultimately, God is still in command, and we must nal analysis, the Warsaw Pact de- to promoting core interests. such as the number of functions a ty, where he taught Theories of In- pray for Him to come and set things right: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus (Rev- fended nothing. NATO, on the other Complicating matters further is minister has initiated or attended; ternational Relations and Political elation, 22.20).” hand, evolved into a hierarchically- the emerging dichotomy in diplo- foreign trips undertaken; smiles Philosophy. ✽ CMYK CMYK ✽

THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007 VIEWPOINTS 11 LETTER FROM ATHENS Comparing the Greek, Armenian and Israeli Lobbies

This last month I was reminded Greece’s heritage and chine than all its neigh- certain circles of the US Govern- again of the political poverty of the threat to territorial in- bors combined. Like ment, I have heard officials say that Unwelcome Greek Islands, Greek American community and its tegrity. the United States, it “the Greeks deserve a beating to put ineffectiveness in managing even I also strongly rec- may have some diffi- them in their place.” Nor does the marginal political activity. To de- ommend a careful look culty in occupying for- concern of the US in Balkan stability No Asylum for Immigrants scribe the current administration’s at the development eign countries but fears extend to Greece nor to preserving attitude towards the Greek Ameri- and success of the Ar- no attack on its territo- the independence and territorial in- “Autumn in Zakyn- immigrants arriving can lobby as politely concealed con- menian community’s ry other than the pin- tegrity of the Republic of Cyprus. thos. What are you do- via the Aegean Sea, tempt would not be an overstate- lobbying organization, pricks of home-made The threats our “old countries” face ing here when you Merchant Shipping ment. The United States Govern- ANCA, the Armenian rockets with little de- are real and potentially lethal to our could be on Mykonos? Minister George Voul- ment has embarked on policy ac- National Committee of structive impact. Yet own friends and relatives. These are Paxos magic holidays. garakis told Greek ra- tions that could, over time, under- America. It took our they collect more and threats that demand an onerous mil- Welcome to the gor- dio. “The investiga- mine the very foundations of the in- Jewish fellow citizens by AMB. PATRICK N. more American mili- itary budget and very risky diploma- geous Greek islands of tions will run very dependent Republic of Cyprus and the better part of 50 THEROS tary, political and fi- cy. Yet we Greek-Americans cannot Paxos and Antipaxos, deep,” said Voulgar- create a nightmarish political threat years to become the nancial support for the seem to muster the talent, the orga- spectacular rocky is- akis, who is responsi- on Greece’s northern borders with- dominant ethnic lobby Special to benefit of Israeli politi- nization nor the energy to accom- lands in the sparkling ble for the coast guard. out the slightest hint that the efforts in the world. In twenty The National Herald cians. plish a small fraction what our Jew- blue Ionian Sea.” Maybe if they go deep of the Greek community, our “lob- years time, the Armen- The Armenian State ish and Armenian fellow citizens are “Ah, Samos. This enough they can find by,” have inhibited it in the slight- ian community has transformed it- is equally secure in its neighbor- capable of. large, Aegean island is by ANDY the bodies of the 44 re- est. self from a rather pathetic fringe hood. Although it could not hope to In 1974, our fellow citizens a gorgeous, verdant DABILIS ported drowned and There is little doubt that the group trying to explain the murder challenge Turkey on the battlefield, looked at us with awe and admira- place which, at one 55 missing – so far. Bush Administration, with the of Turkish diplomats at the hands of its ally and strategic military guar- tion. We had the power of unity and point, is no more than Special to The Brussels-based British Government once again outraged survivors of the Armenian antor, Russia, has made it crystal determination and we used it in a 2 kilometers away The National Herald pro-migrant organiza- playing the stalking horse, has de- genocide of World War I, into an or- clear that no Turkish incursion into good and pressing cause. Today, from the coast of Asia tion Pro Asyl made the termined that it will take whatever ganization that requires the full Armenia would survive the first where are we? I have neither the Minor. It is covered with pure white accusations of abuse of would-be necessary measures to give the panoply of the United States Gov- days’ reaction. The Armenians are patience nor the energy to suggest sand beaches, picturesque villages, immigrants and irregulars, includ- Turkish puppet statelet in the occu- ernment to block a meaningless pursuing a dream of moral justifica- what we need to do. Do we need to fishing harbors, and is famous for ing one who told the group he had pied Cyprus a status equal to and commemorative resolution of Con- tion for the savagery that engulfed wait for a disaster as in 1974? the production and the quality of its been subjected to a mock execution, perhaps better than that of the legit- gress. their families almost ninety years’ Rather, I hope that conscientious wine.” while other charges included beat- imate Government. At the same Most interestingly, the two suc- ago. The point here is not that Ar- members of our community will “The Greek island of Lesbos (and ings, electric shocks and pushing time, the United States dismisses, cessful lobbies campaign on behalf menians have no case; they do in- themselves spend some time won- also known as Mytilyni), with its an- refugees heads into buckets full of yes, contemptuously, Greek con- of causes that do not threaten the deed. Rather is that they have mobi- dering why. cient history, incomparable natural water, dandy little techniques cerns about the irredentist and independence, stability or territori- lized the Congress on behalf of an beauty and tradition of hospitality which, until now, had been reserved destabilizing activities of the regime al integrity of their “old countries.” issue that poses no threat to Arme- The Hon. Ambassador Theros spanning over centuries awaits to for terrorist suspects on Guan- currently in power in Skopje. Israel is a regional superpower nia. served in the U.S. Foreign Service greet you and treat you to an unfor- tanamo, a place where no one has Greek American efforts to re- whose military superiority to its By contrast, Greece continues to for 36 years, mostly in the Middle gettable holiday.” deliberately tried to seek refuge. dress matters have thrown up only neighborhood is of the same order face real tangible military and sub- East, and was American That’s how the famed Greek is- Greek Foreign Minister Dora symbolic and largely toothless reso- of magnitude as America’s military versive threats. It enjoys no guaran- Ambassador to Qatar from 1995 lands are portrayed in ads, by travel Bakoyanni said the overwhelming lutions. This is not to take away superiority to the World. It has, a tees from the US, its NATO allies, or to 1998. He also directed the agencies and travel writers who trip numbers of would-be immigrants from freshman Congressman Gus large nuclear arsenal, a larger de- even Russia that a military incursion State Department’s counter-ter- over themselves with enough adjec- have been too much for Greece to Bilirakis’ successful shepherding of fense budget and a much more so- from Turkey would be faced down rorism office and holds numerous tives to fill a case of wine bottles to accept. “Greece can’t bear any more a House Resolution that reaffirms in phisticated and lethal military ma- by outside military force. In fact, in U.S. Government decorations. describe the beauty and allure of refugees,” she said after a meeting polite, diplomatically neutral terms the Greek islands, but that’s not with Prime Minister Costas Kara- that the United States Congress how they are seen by thousands of manlis. She said an E.U.-wide policy supports “a bi-communal, bi-zonal immigrants and asylum-seekers on the problem was needed, espe- federation with territory allocated fleeing Africa, the Middle East and cially after reports that 13,000 ille- to the Greek and Turkish communi- war-torn Afghanistan and Iraq, gal immigrants in September alone ties within a united Cyprus.” hoping to find either a home in had been caught trying to get into To the shame of the community, Greece, or use it to get to another the country. Bilirakis worked virtually unaided European Union country where Interviews by Pro Asyl and a to produce a document that reflects they wouldn’t be treated like dirt. group of Greek lawyers found po- what is official American policy – Why? Because they are not wel- lice had been detaining even under- even if this Administration is indeed come in Greece, particularly on aged migrants in detention centers working feverishly behind the Samos, where more than 2,400 so- under unacceptable conditions, es- scenes to change that policy to the called illegal immigrants arrived pecially on Samos, and that they detriment of Cyprus. The simple the first eight months of 2007, com- were either informed of their rights truth is that Turkey and its puppet pared to 1,580 for all of the previ- to seek asylum, nor given any legal in North Cyprus has outright, open- ous year. On Lesbos, which is hos- support. ly and notoriously reneged on its pitable indeed if you are carrying an “The Greek coast guard system- fresh obligations in the July, 2006 American Express card, nearly atically maltreats newly-arrived UN-sponsored framework agree- 2,000 crawled ashore through Au- refugees. It tries to block their boats ment but that we cannot get the US gust. Those don’t count the ones and force them out of Greek territo- Government to say so. In fact, US who drowned at sea, and whom hu- rial waters,” Pro Asyl and the Greek Government spokesmen imply to an man rights groups said were circled Group of Lawyers for the Rights of ill-informed press that Cyprus, not by the Greek coast guard, which de- Refugees & Migrants said in a joint Turkey, moved the goal posts of the liberately tried to make waves statement, exceptional for its harsh- agreement and the press simply re- around them or even tried to punc- ness, especially given that Spain peats the falsity. ture their rubber dinghies so they and Italy have similarly been over- In June, the State Department would sink. Hopefully, it wasn’t too run by immigrants arriving by sea spokesman indicated that the US close to shore so that tourists could and haven’t had similar criticism. supported the accession of the AP PHOTO/THE CANADIAN PRESS,SEAN KILPATRICK see, but then again, that’s probably Greece doesn’t know how to Skopje regime (FYROM) to NATO Thousands of Greek-Canadians gather on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Saturday October 27, 2007, to not in the national tourist organiza- handle the influx, which is partially and that it “hoped” that the “name protest Prime Minister Stephen Harper's position on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia The tion brochure. a mathematical problem when, on a issue” would not be an obstacle. Greek American lobby could have much to learn from its neighbors to the north and from other lobbies For the past couple of years, the small island like Samos, there aren’t While acknowledging that acces- such as those of Israel and Armenia. E.U. has detailed horror stories of il- proper facilities to handle thou- sion required unanimity from cur- legal immigrants trying to reach its sands of immigrants who land with rent NATO members, the State De- southern shores – mostly the Ca- nothing except the tattered clothes partment spokesman left no doubt nary Islands, Spain and Italy – pri- they are wearing and some hope among his visitors that Greece marily from Africa, and mostly in they will at least be treated hu- should not veto accession over the rickety overcrowded wooden boats, manely. Greece has finally respond- name. In September, the President many of which had capsized and ed with plans to open a bigger and of FYROM took over as President of sunk, killing unknown hundreds of better facility to replace a detention the UN General Assembly and be- people whose crime was trying to center, an abandoned tobacco gan to use the name “Macedonia” seek a better life. warehouse the UNHCR said should unadorned by modifiers all over the Until now, little attention had have been closed. But there’s been UN. Greece protested and hundreds been paid to Greece, a beckoning no answer as to why 99 percent of or perhaps thousands of Greeks beacon indeed because of its prox- asylum seekers are rejected, espe- sent insulting e-mails to the UN Sec- imity to Africa and the Middle East. cially when 3,500 immigrants this retary General. But the United This year, however, record numbers year came from Iraq, placing Greece States treated the matter as a tem- of immigrants, whom Greece and second only behind Sweden as the pest in a teapot. Again, some state- the E.U. call “illegal,” but who are place where Iraqis who don’t want ments were issued by friends of the called “irregulars” by human rights to be murdered or blown up by sui- Greek-American community from groups, have been trying to make cide bombers seek refuge. the Hill, such as Senator Menendez the same kind of risky watery Irregulars, illegals and asylum- (D-NJ) but without visible effect on odyssey to the country which creat- seekers in Greece are detained for the White House or State. ed democracy and rights for all peo- long periods without hope of pro- Recently, I completed the book ple. tection, human rights groups said, “The Israel Lobby” by Professors It’s no surprise Greece has ig- and the U.N. Council for Refugees John J. Mearsheimer of the Univer- nored E.U. regulations and direc- in Greece said that, during the first sity of Chicago and Step0hen M. tives about how to handle the surg- half of 2007, only 16 out of 14,594 Walt of Harvard’s John F. Kennedy ing numbers of “irregulars” or “ille- applications for refugee status were School of Government. It was not gals” because most Greeks don’t approved. Many of the applicants light reading. Three hundred fifty obey their own laws. For asylum came by boat believing Greece was four pages of tightly written text fol- seekers, those who are not fleeing better than where they left, and by lowed by 110 pages of endnotes economic conditions, but for their accident or design found a Greek is- and 17 pages of indices make this a lives from governments who want land their first landing in a really heavy volume in every sense of the to kill them, the numbers are chill- free country after high seas drama. word. It chronicles and celebrates ing reminders of how they are disre- Much of this is taking place al- the development and success of garded: only about 1 percent of most right off the coast of Turkey, an America’s “Jewish” lobby into the those who beg Greece for mercy are interim shipping point for human most powerful, effective and ulti- granted it, according to the United traffickers and a place where no mately successful political organi- Nations High Commissioner for refugees want to stay, which tells zation in United States. The vitriolic Refugees (UNHCR) which pointed you all you need to know about that criticism heaped on the two hapless out that – again – Greece has the country. But Greece should under- authors by the Jewish community, worst record in the E.U. in a dubi- stand persecution, having over- in my opinion, missed the point. I ous category: how many asylum ap- come centuries of occupation by the used the term “celebrates” with care plications are granted. Turks, Venetians and others and, and admiration. For this book is Worse, Greece has now been even if it obviously can’t house all nothing less than a panegyric to the charged not only with ignoring ir- those who want to come, should efforts of an ethnic community to regulars or illegals, but housing hear their cases and treat them like transform itself into a movement them in atrocious conditions and humans and not human waste. that can determine American for- even brutalizing them, including While they’re waiting, maybe eign policy, move billions of dollars charges that some were made to they can learn a little Greek. How in budgets, have academics dis- swim from the hospitable Greek is- about philoxenia? missed or harassed out of Universi- lands to nearby Turkey (maybe they ties, and force every American Pres- were given a big wave and a “geia Mr. Dabilis was the New England idential candidate to bow and sou” goodbye), while others were editor for United Press Interna- scrape before it. I recommend this reportedly dumped on uninhabited tional in Boston, and a staff writer book to every person who has the islands with no food or water. Now and assistant metropolitan editor interests of the Greek American that’s a Greek “Survivor” television at the Boston Globe for 17 years community at heart. If there were series which would draw ratings. before relocating to Greece. His ever a manual on how-to-do-it, this Under a wave of mounting criti- column is published weekly in the book fills the bill. cism, the Greek Government finally National Herald. Readers interest- Israel’s supporters don’t support said it would investigate allegations ed in contacting him can send e- empty Resolutions. They play hard- over the systematic abuse of illegal mails to [email protected]. ball. Attempts by the United States Government to rally support for a possible war with Iran bring out GUEST EDITORIALS Congressional resolutions demand- ing the United States give as a gift to The National Herald welcomes manuscripts representing a variety of views Israel military equipment that will for publication in its View Points page. They should include the writer’s more than outmatch anything we name, address, and telephone number and be addressed to the View sell to the Arabs. All the current two Points Editor, The National Herald, 37-10 30th Street, Long Island City, NY score Presidential candidates filling our TV screens have made obligato- 11101. They can also be faxed to (718) 472-0510 or, preferably, e-mailed ry but enthusiastic obeisance to the to [email protected]. Due to considerations of space Israel lobby; I have yet to note a sin- we enforce a strict 1,400-word upper limit. We reserve the right to edit for gle clear cut statement by any cur- repetitiveness, diction and syntax. We regret that we are unable to ac- rent Presidential candidate con- knowledge or return manuscripts, published or unpublished. demning Turkey’s occupation of Cyprus and Skopje’s usurpation of ✽ CMYK CMYK ✽ ✽ CMYK CMYK ✽

12 THE NATIONAL HERALD, NOVEMBER 3, 2007

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