Volume 28 Number 224 — July 1, 2002
AHI GENERAL NEWS AHI Hosts 27th Anniversary Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National Public
Service Awards Dinner
WASHINGTON, DC—A distinguished Congressman, an author specializing in Hellenic
culture and traditions, an accomplished and respected publisher,
a world-renowned singer, and a visionary of the e-commerce and e-finance
revolution were the dynamic individuals honored on March 2, 2002
at the AHI 27th Anniversary Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National
Public Service Awards Dinner. These five individuals from a diverse
range of professions were recognized for their talents and contributions
to the Greek American community.
The recipient of the Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award for his
outstanding career in public service spanning two decades was Congressman
Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ).
The Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award was presented to: Marilyn Rouvelas for
her outstanding work, documenting the traditions of the Greek community
in the U.S.; Antonis H. Diamataris, for his pioneering career as
publisher of the Greek-language newspaper The National Herald, devoting
his work to promoting Hellenism; Nadia Weinberg, for her outstanding
career as a world-class vocal soloist, promoting Greece and its musical
culture; and Christos M. Cotsakos, Chairman and CEO for E*TRADE Group,
for his outstanding entrepreneurial achievements and philanthropic
service.
The gala affair, which was attended by more than 350 family members, friends
and supporters of the AHI from across the country, took place at
the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Washington, DC. Special guests included:
Ambassador of Cyprus to the U.S. Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis; Senator
and Mrs. Paul S. Sarbanes; Mr. Vassilios Costis, representing Greece’s
Ambassador to the U.S. Alexander Philon who was in Greece; and Maryland
State Senator Chris Van Hollen.
AHI’s Executive Director, Nick Larigakis, opened the program by welcoming guests
and announcing the entrance of the Marines of Headquarters Battalion
for the presentation of the colors. The American and Greek national
anthems were performed by opera singer Christina ndreou, ccompanied
on piano by Richard Danley. The vening’s invocation and benediction
were delivered by Reverend Michael Eaccarino of Saint Katherine Greek
Orthodox Church in Falls Church, VA.
As a special tribute to honor the memory of the victims of the September 11
tragedy, a moment of silence was observed, followed by a medley of
patriotic songs performed by Ms. Andreou and Mr. Danley.
Following dinner, which was accompanied by music from the band Zephyros, AHI
founder Gene Rossides briefly previewed the organization’s activities
for 2002.
AHI Chairman James Marketos opened the awards ceremony with an overview of AHI’s
accomplishments in 2001. After these remarks, American Hellenic Institute
Public Affairs Committee (AHIPAC) Chairman Nicholas Chimicles introduced
Thalia Assuras, national correspondent for the “CBS Early News,”
who served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
EVENING’S HONOREES
In his acceptance speech, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., stressed his advocacy
of issues regarding Greece and Cyprus and vowed to work with his
colleagues in Congress towards a resolution of the Cyprus problem
and to promote the country’s accession to the European Union. He
also highlighted the critical role played by AHI in maintaining Congressional
awareness of Hellenic issues and the more universal themes such as
the rule of law.
In accepting her award, Marilyn Rouvelas similarly reflected on the importance
of Hellenic values: “We want everyone to understand the universality
and the timelessness of Hellenism and that they can also be a part
of it.” Through her marriage to Manny Rouvelas, a Greek American,
Mrs. Rouvelas was inspired to author her best-selling book, A Guide
to Greek Traditions and Customs in America, which has become a popular
standard reference for Hellenic and Orthodox traditions.
The next honoree, Antonis H. Diamataris, discussed the fundamental need for
a voice and public archive for the Hellenic community here in the
United States. This voice is embodied in the newspaper which he has
diligently published for 22 years—The National Herald.
Nadia Weinberg, the evening’s fourth honoree, discussed the roots of the artistic
inspiration that has propelled her successful singing career, noting
that, “The greatest gift that I’ve received is the spiritual and
cultural heritage that my parents gave to me. It enriched my life,
it made me who I am, and I am very proud to be three pieces—Greek,
American and Jewish.”
The final honoree for the evening was Christos M. Cotsakos. Mr. Cotsakos reflected
on the sources of inspiration for success in life, stating poignantly,
“Much like the generation before us gave us the ability with those
wings to fly, it is now our responsibility to give the next generation
their wings so that we can have in this great American and Hellenic
culture duty, honor, country, family and community.”
The honorees were introduced by friends and associates with distinguished records
in their own professional fields: Mr. Savas Tsivicos, President and
owner of Paphian Enterprises, Inc. and former Chairman of AHIPAC
(for Congressman Pallone); Professor Charles Moskos, Professor of
sociology at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, and currently
a visiting scholar at the Woodrow Wilson International Center (for
Mrs. Rouvelas); Professor Nickolaos A. Stavrou, Graduate Professor
of International Affairs and Political Science at Howard University
in Washington, DC (for Mr. Diamataris); Mr. Tom Ellis, Washington
Bureau Chief for ANTENNA TV and the Athens News Agency, and U.S.
correspondent for the Deutschewelle’s Greek Service and for the daily
Kathimerini (for Ms. Weinberg); and Mr. Mitchell H. Caplan, Managing
Director, North America and Chief Financial Products Officer for
E*TRADE Group (for Mr. Cotsakos).
Former Honorees attending the event included: Dr. Stamatis Krimigis; Dr. Ted
Lyras; Ms. Dora Hancock, former President of the Hellenic American
Women’s Council (HAWC); Mr. David Weinberg; Ms. Angene Rafferty;
and Ms. Dena Clark.
Other notable guests included: Mr. Andreas Pericli, Ms. Rozana Papadopoulos,
Mr. Donald Neese, and Mr. James Lagos.
Vocalist Nadia Weinberg Performs Medley of International Songs at AHI-Sponsored
Concert
WASHINGTON, DC—On March 1, 2002, AHI sponsored the kick-off leg of a North American
concert tour featuring highly-acclaimed vocal soloist Nadia Weinberg
and the soloists of the Symphony Orchestra of Athens. The concert,
which took place at the National Geographic Society’s Grosvenor Auditorium
with welcome remarks provided by Sen. Paul Sarbanes (D-MD), marked
the first in a series of gala events accenting the AHI’s Hellenic
Heritage and National Public Service Awards and Weekend Celebration.
The City of Athens, Greece, for the sixth year in a row, sent the
soloists from its symphony orchestra and the distinguished artist
Nadia Weinberg on this tour of cities with large Greek populations
to bring a message of culture and solidarity to the communities visited.
This year’s March 2002 tour included Washington, Dallas, Houston,
Fresno, Jackson, Boston and Toronto.
AHI Hosts Ambassador Thomas J. Miller in Washington
On January 18, 2002, AHI hosted a dinner in honor of U.S. Ambassador to Greece,
Thomas J. Miller, at the Capital Hilton in Washington, DC. The event
drew 100 attendees and provided an opportunity for guests to hear
a first-hand account of current issues and developments confronted
by the ambassador during the early stages of his newest diplomatic
post.
Ambassador Miller provided an open overview of the positive political, economic
and social transformations evident in Greece since his first tour
of diplomatic service in the U.S. Embassy’s political section in
Athens from 1985-1987.
55th Anniversary of Truman Doctrine Celebrated
On March 12, 2002, AHI commemorated the 55th Anniversary of the Truman Doctrine
of Aid to Greece with a luncheon event at the Capital Hilton Hotel
in Washington, DC. The event featured special guest speaker General
Andrew J. Goodpaster, USA (Ret.), former Supreme Commander of NATO.
Commenting from the standpoint of the organization which he served in during
the Doctrine’s implementation period (Plans and Operations Division
of the War Department), General Goodpaster focused on the threat
to Allied and, more specifically, to Greek independence and democracy,
and the response to these threats. This was a turning point not just
in the history of the twentieth century, but a turning point in American
history and in the history of America’s relationship with Greece
and with Europe, more broadly.
Delivering opening remarks was AHI Founder Gene Rossides, who recounted General
Goodpaster’s outstanding military and public service to the nation,
calling him an “American icon.” The Greek Embassy’s new Deputy Chief
of Mission, Eleftherios Anghelopoulos and former U.S. Ambassador
to Greece Robert Keeley were among the dignitaries in attendance.
AHI Leadership Meets with His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios
On Tuesday, April 23, 2002, AHI Chairman James Marketos, New York Chapter President
Col. Andonios Neroulias, USA (Ret.), Executive Director Nick Larigakis
and AHI founder Gene Rossides met with His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios
at the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in New York. The group called upon
His Eminence to pay their respects and to congratulate the Archbishop
on his successful tenure and work promoting the mission of the Greek
Orthodox Church in the U.S. In addition, a lively dialogue ensued
regarding cooperation on matters of mutual interest to the Archdiocese
and AHI.
AHI Bids Farewell to Ambassador Alexander Philon and Mrs. Eleni Philon
On May 6, 2002, AHI bid a warm farewell to departing Greek Ambassador to the
U.S., Alexander Philon, at a dinner held at the Capital Hilton Hotel
in Washington, DC. The Ambassador was presented with the AHI Hellenic
Heritage and National Public Service Award in recognition of his
diligent and successful endeavors promoting a strong and collaborative
relationship between Greece and the U.S. during his tenure in Washington.
The AHI also presented the Ambassador’s wife, Mrs. Eleni Philon,
with a gift of appreciation for her work in support of Hellenic issues
in the U.S.
During his acceptance remarks, Ambassador Philon thanked AHI for its steadfast
and positive support of Hellenic issues, stressing that “grassroots
efforts are very important” in moving forward these policy initiatives.
The Ambassador also expressed special thanks to AHI founder Gene
Rossides for his persistence in pursuing “what is right” in U.S.
foreign policy objectives, and to Executive Director Nick Larigakis
for his dedication in pushing forward AHI’s policy and public awareness
agenda.
AHI Opposes Proposed Sale of Two Oliver Hazard Perry Class Guided Missile Frigates
to Turkey
On January 23, 2001, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified
the U.S. Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale of two Oliver
Hazard Perry class frigates with associated equipment and services
to Turkey. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be
as high as $110 million. To summarize AHI’s position on the sale,
“AHI opposes the proposed sale of two FFG-7 Oliver Hazard Perry class
guided missile frigates to Turkey as contrary to the best interests
of the U.S and to the interests and values that the U.S. should be
advancing in the region.”
For a full copy of AHI’s statement, please log into our Web site at <www.ahiworld.org/013102.html> or contact AHI at (202) 785-8430.
AHI Confirms Status of New U.S. Embassy Office as “Change of Address” in Occupied
Northern Cyprus
On January 31, 2001, AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis sent a letter to Jim
Seevers, Cyprus Desk Officer at the U.S. Department of State to reconfirm
the status of a new U.S. Embassy liaison office opened in the occupied
zone of Cyprus. Mr. Larigakis had spoken with Mr. Seevers earlier
that week and received his assurances that the new office did not
signify any change in policy or upgrade in status towards the occupied
zone.
AHI IN THE NEWS
AHI Responds to “60 Minutes” Report
On January 10, 2002, AHI submitted a letter to Don Hewitt, Executive Producer
of the CBS “60 Minutes” program, criticizing a story by co-host Ed
Bradley regarding Greece and the terrorist group November 17, aired
on January 6, 2002.
While many serious allegations were waged against the Greek government’s measures
to combat terrorism, no air time was given to show the significant
cooperation and security measures that have been implemented in recent
years.
On February 4, Mr. Hewitt joined Messrs. Larigakis and Rossides in a telephone
conversation to discuss the story. Mr. Larigakis sent a letter to
Mr. Hewitt to summarize key points that were made during their conversation
in order to highlight the pitfalls inherent in the program’s unfairly
biased coverage.
Washington Times Publishes AHI Letter
On March 3, 2002, The Washington Times published a letter to the editor from
AHI criticizing an anonymous advertisement that falsely attacked
Greece as a state sponsor of terrorism. The ad, signed by “Greek
Americans Against Terrorism,” appeared in the February 25 edition
of the newspaper. AHI’s letter criticized the ad on several fronts,
including its lack of objectivity and blatant inaccuracies.
AHI Sends Letter to The New York Times
On April 30, 2002, AHI sent a letter to the editor of The New York Times responding
to an article by Stephen Kinzer (“Plans for Museum Buoy Armenians
And Dismay Turks,” April 24, 2002, B1). According to AHI’s letter:
“Unfortunately, the word ‘genocide’ is not so easily uttered in certain corners
of the world with respect to the Armenian tragedy. Fearful of offending
Turkey, successive U.S. Administrations and Congresses have evaded
officially terming this a genocide. Mr. Kinzer’s article, by suggesting
that there is any real debate among knowledgeable and objective historians
as to the veracity and magnitude of the Armenian genocide, also casts
a troubling degree of denial on this tragic chapter in world history.”
VISITORS TO HELLENIC HOUSE
THEODOROS PANGALOS
On March 20, 2002, AHI hosted a lecture and reception at Hellenic House featuring
Theodoros Pangalos, a prominent member of Greek Parliament under
the PASOK party and former Foreign Minister of Greece. Mr. Pangalos
was in Washington, DC to represent Parliament at meetings held by
the Political Committee of the Western European Union (March 18-21).
The AHI event drew an attendance of over 50 people and provided an opportunity
for guests to hear a first-hand account of current issues and developments
in Greece’s foreign policy, and Mr. Pangalos’ perspectives on U.S.
foreign policy, past and present. Mr. Pangalos gave a frank discussion
of events and policies undertaken by the U.S. government since September
11, followed by questions from the audience and a reception.
THESSALONIKI DELEGATION
On April 8-9, 2002, AHI hosted a delegation from Thessaloniki comprised of leaders
from various chambers of commerce, trade unions and the mayor’s office
for a series of meetings with key local and national government officials.
On April 9, the Thessaloniki delegation visited Hellenic House for
a noontime meeting with AHI leadership, including Executive Director
Nick Larigakis and Legal Counsel Nick Karembelas. After the meeting,
participants attended a luncheon at the Capital Hilton which was
sponsored by AHI DC member and prominent businessman George Christacos.
During their visit, the delegation also met with Michael Hodges,
Deputy Assistant for Economic Development representing Washington
Mayor Anthony A. Williams, Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD) and Congressman
Michael Bilirakis (R-FL).
IOANNIS MAGRIOTIS
The Deputy Foreign Minister of Greece, Ioannis Magriotis, accompanied by Greek
Ambassador Alexander Philon visited Hellenic House on March 26, 2002.
The Greek officials met with members of the AHI leadership which
included founder Gene Rossides, Advisory Committee Member Kostas
Alexakis, AHI-Delaware Chapter President Dr. James Faller, Executive
Director Nick Larigakis, Legal Counsel Nick Karembelas, and the staff
for a one-hour meeting. After the meeting, the AHI hosted a luncheon
for Minister Magriotis at the Capital Hilton.
APOSTOLOS KAKLAMANIS
On May 13, 2002, AHI hosted the President of Greek Parliament Apostolos Kaklamanis,
Ambassador of Greece to the U.S. Alexander Philon, and an accompanying
delegation for a meeting at Hellenic House. The Greek officials met
with AHI leadership and staff for a two-hour meeting to discuss current
U.S.-Greece relations, and areas of future cooperation between the
Greek American community and Greece. AHI representatives included
Chairman James Marketos, General Counsel Nick Karambelas, founder
Gene Rossides, and Executive Director Nick Larigakis.
NOON FORUMS
Professor Andre Gerolymatos Discusses Stability in the Balkans and the Role of
Greece
On April 10, 2002, the AHI hosted Professor Andre erolymatos at a Hellenic House
noon forum, at which time he provided an historic and current overview
of Balkan stability and Greece’s pivotal role in the region. Professor
Gerolymatos is Associate Professor in the Department of History at
Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, B.C. and Chairman of Hellenic
Studies at the Hellenic Canadian Congress of B.C.
Professor Gerolymatos highlighted the key strategic and stabilizing value of
the Balkans and of Greece from antiquity to the present: “Greece
has always been, in a sense, a jewel in the crown of every empire
that has come and gone from the region and because it has directly
or indirectly dominated the other Balkan states.”
C-SPAN 2 broadcast the AHI noon forum featuring Professor Gerolymatos on its
“History on Book TV” program on Saturday, May 11 at 11:00 p.m. and
again on Sunday, May 12 at 8:00 p.m.
Ambassador Tom Weston Discusses Current Status of Cyprus Talks, EU Accession
at AHI Noon Forum
On April 11, 2002, AHI hosted Ambassador Thomas G. Weston, U.S. Special Coordinator
for Cyprus, at a noon forum at Hellenic House. Ambassador Weston
provided a candid overview of progress on United Nations (UN) -led
direct talks currently underway between Republic of Cyprus President
Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash, as well
as a forecast of upcoming benchmarks in the negotiation process.
He focused particularly on the U.S. role in helping to engender a
resolution of the long-standing impasse, and on the implications
of Cyprus’ European Union (EU) accession on the talks.
Ambassador Weston pointed out that, with a target resolution date forecasted
for June 2002, a midterm evaluation in New York by the UN Security
Council noted several areas of concern on the progress of the negotiations.
Most notably, it was expressed that the pace of the talks is not
proceeding rapidly enough to reach the June goal. While positive
moves have been made by both sides, remarks from members of the Security
Council underscored that Mr. Clerides has demonstrated greater flexibility
and cooperation on areas of key concern.
Ambassador Weston expressed his full confidence in Cyprus’ accession to the
EU, and in the broader process of enlargement being forged by the
EU member states and candidate states. The U.S. has had a long-term
policy promoting both these goals and “we continue to believe that
the accession of Cyprus and the whole process of accession should
lead to a settlement,” said the Ambassador. Additionally, Ambassador
Weston emphasized the tremendous advantages—for all sides involved—of
accession to the EU by Cyprus as a united island.
AHI Hosts Congressional Salute to Greek Independence Day
In March 19, 2002, AHI hosted “A Congressional Salute to Greek Independence Day”
at the Rayburn Building on Capitol Hill to kick off Washington, DC’s
celebration of the 181st Anniversary of Greek Independence. The event,
which was attended by more than 250 people, was held in cooperation
with the Congressional Hellenic Caucus’s co-sponsors, Representative
Michael Bilirakis (R-FL) and Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY).
Greek Ambassador Alexander Philon and Cypriot Ambassador Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis
offered brief remarks and spoke of the importance of this holiday.
They stressed the ideals of freedom, justice and the rule of law
symbolized by the holiday and the importance of achieving these democratic
ideals particularly in Cyprus.
Members of Congress ttending the reception and delivering brief remarks included:
Rep. Michael Bilirakis (R-FL), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep.
Rush Holt (D-NJ), Rep. James Langevin (D-RI), Rep. Connie Morella
(R-MD), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Rep.
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), and Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-MD). Also
stopping by the reception briefly were Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY),
Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ), and Member of Hellenic Parliament and former
Foreign Minister of Greece Theodoros Pangalos.
Each of the speakers emphasized their admiration for the Hellenic culture and
for the valiant and inspiring struggle for Greek independence, achieved
nearly 200 years ago. They also affirmed their commitment to finding
a just and permanent solution to the Cyprus problem based on UN resolutions
and democratic principles, stressing that the rule of law must prevail
in the Cyprus problem and in the Aegean.
Also highlighing the holiday was the launching of a new link on AHI’s Web site <www.ahiworld.org>, titled “AHI Celebrates Greek Independence Day,” which contains a compilation
of statements from the event, items submitted for the Congressional
Record, and news articles about the holiday.
AHI PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
ACTION ALERTS
AHI Criticizes Israel’s Failure to Recognize Patriarch of Jerusalem
On Tuesday, April 30, 2002, AHI’s founder Gene Rossides sent a letter to President
Bush protesting Israel’s failure to recognize the Greek Orthodox
Patriarch of Jerusalem, Irineos, as a violation of religious freedom.
The letter urged the President to pressure the Israeli government
to grant recognition to the Patriarch, and to protest any law which
requires state approval of a religious leader.
AHIPAC issued an action alert along similar lines on May 2 to urge members of
the community to voice their concern on the issue to their Representatives,
Senators and State Department officials.
TESTIMONY
AHI Executive Director Submits Testimony to House Appropriations Subcommittee
on Foreign Operations
On May 9, 2002, AHI’s Executive Director, Nick Larigakis, submitted testimony
to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, calling
on the U.S.:
- to remain actively engaged in moving the Cyprus problem to a settlement based
on UN resolutions, democratic principles, and EU legal principles
and common practices, and to continue the $15 million in humanitarian
aid to Cyprus;
- to declare publicly that the boundary in the Aegean Sea between Greece and
Turkey has long been settled and that if Turkey disagrees, Turkey
should take the matter to the International Court of Justice
at the Hague; and
- to stop applying a double standard to Turkey on the rule of law, human rights,
international and national state terrorism by Turkey in Cyprus
and against its twenty percent Kurdish minority in Turkey.
Mr. Larigakis’ testimony was submitted on behalf of leading membership organizations
in the community including: the American Hellenic Institute Public
Affairs Committee (AHIPAC), the Hellenic American National Council
(HANC), the Pan Macedonian Association of America, the Pan Cretan
Association of America, the Hellenic American Women’s Council (HAWC),
the Cyprus Federation of America, the Pan Laconian Federation of
U.S.A. and Canada, the Panepirotic Federation of America, and the
Pan Karpathian Educational Progressive Association.
LETTERS TO THE PRESIDENT
Armenian, Kurdish and Greek American Organizations Jointly Oppose Jewish American
Organizations’ Support for Turkey
The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), the American Kurdish Information
Network (AKIN), the Hellenic American National Council (HANC), the
Hellenic American Women’s Council (HAWC) and AHI sent a joint letter
to President Bush on February 20, 2002 in opposition to a December
18, 2001 joint letter to the President from several Jewish American
organizations. The AHI and cooperating organizations’ letter was
sent to respond to serious errors of fact and omission present in
the Jewish American organizations’ letter which misrepresented Turkey’s
relationship with the U.S. and with its own citizens. The letter
also failed to mention Turkey’s genocides and ongoing human rights
abuses.
The Armenian, Kurdish and Greek American organizations offered to meet with
the Jewish American organizations to discuss this matter further
and to develop an ongoing dialogue.
AHI BUSINESS NETWORK AT WORK
CHAPTER NEWS
Demetri Koutrouvelis Provides Commercial Real Estate Outlook
The AHI hosted a business networking luncheon on February 21, 2002 at the Capital
Hilton in Washington, DC. The event featured guest speaker and AHI
member Demetri Koutrouvelis, Associate Director at Julien J. Studley,
Inc. Mr. outrouvelis discussed the current outlook for the commercial
real estate industry throughout the nation, with a particular emphasis
on the DC metropolitan region. Incorporated into the presentation
was an analysis of the impact of the current economic downturn and
the effects of September 11 on the real estate market.
AHI New York Networking Reception Features Former Congressman Michael Pappas
On February 13, 2002, AHI in cooperation with the AHI Greater Metropolitan New
York Chapter hosted a etworking reception at the Harvard Club in
New York City. The event featured Michael Pappas, Regional Administrator
for the Small Business Administration (SBA) and former U.S. Congressman
(New Jersey), as special guest speaker. Mr. Pappas’ presentation
highlighted the efforts of the SBA in the aftermath of the September
11 terrorist attacks, and also provided information on more general
services provided by the SBA to residents within Region II.
AHI Business Networking Event at Ozio’s
On May 16, 2002, the AHI hosted an informal networking reception at Ozio’s Restaurant
in Washington, DC. The event was held in close cooperation with AHI
member and Ozio’s proprietor George Christacos. The AHI will continue
to host similar informal networking events to provide a more casual
networking atmosphere for members and friends in the Washington,
DC metro region.
AHI Northern Virginia Chapter
The AHI Chapter of Northern Virginia (AHI-NOVA) held its first meeting of 2002
on February 22 at the home of Chris and Christina Zirps in Alexandria,
VA. Presentations following the general meeting focused on “Nutrition
in the Twenty-First Century,” by George Economides, and “The Market
Update,” by Stacy Sample. AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis also
provided a brief preview of upcoming AHI events.
On May 11, 2002, AHI-NOVA’s second general meeting of the year featured speakers
Steven Tzikas (“Greece and Terrorism: A Perception”) and Roger Beatty
(“The Amazing Legacy of the Ancient Greek Physician”). Also of note,
AHI-NOVA chapter membership increased to 52 paid members following
this meeting.
AHI Greater New York Metropolitan Chapter
On April 16, the AHI Greater New York Metropolitan Chapter (AHI-New York) held
a Business Network informal reception at the Minotaur Restaurant.
Prominent attendees at the event were Mr. Dennis Droushiotis, Commercial
Counselor of Cyprus, and Ms. Dorie Klissas, producer of NBC’s “Today
Show”.
Subsequent AHI-New York Business Network informal receptions were held on May
14 and June 11 at the Minotaur Restaurant. The New York Chapter’s
President, Col. Andonios Neroulias, plans to hold one networking
reception per month for New York area AHI members.
AHI MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
A Pioneer in Industry and Community
A constant thread visible throughout AHI member Stavros Semanderes’ life has
been a certain fearlessness of striking out on his own. A true pioneer
in business and community, he maintains strong ties to his cultural
heritage and promotes these as a foundation from which future generations
of Greek Americans can cultivate their own success.
At the young age of 14, Stavros Semanderes left his native island of Crete and
his family, immigrating to Grand Rapids, Michigan to live with an
uncle. His goal: to gain an education and then return to Greece.
With a B.S. in physics from the University of Michigan and an M.S.
in nuclear engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, political
events in Greece precluded his return. So he embarked on his career
in the U.S. with a first stop working for Westinghouse in the design
of nuclear reactors.
Working for a corporate giant, Mr. Semandares’ pioneering character once again
came through when he decided to break from the corporation. According
to him, “I needed the independence to make my decisions, to follow
my ideas.” Hence, he struck out on his own and launched Odyssey Contracting—an
industrial painting business, specializing in bridge rehabilitation.
Proof of Odyssey’s continued success today, the company was ranked
twelfth largest in its field by Engineering News in 1996.
Beyond a successful business, Mr. Semanderes is also a leader in the Greek and
Cretan American communities. He currently presides as President of
the Pan-Cretan Association of America (PAA), elected in July 2001
for a two-year term. As president, Mr. Semandares has set three goals
for the organization. Each goal aims to strengthen the Hellenic and
Cretan cultural foundation from which he and people like him have
drawn their success so that subsequent generations can do the same
here in the U.S.
The first of his three goals as president of the PAA, “It’s a must to establish
cultural ties with Crete and Greece” by sending children and young
adults there for study and cultural visits, co-sponsored with well-established
and respected organizations and institutions in Crete. Mr. Semanderes
second goal is “to bring the [PAA] into the twenty-first century
in communications” by establishing Internet communications with PAA
chapters throughout the country. Modern technology can help members
of the PAA and the Greek American communities to maintain and strengthen
their contact with each other.
Mr. Semanderes’ third goal for the PAA and the Greek American community at-large
is “to establish some consciousness in our people to support economically
the products of Greece and Crete” by helping to promote these products
in America.
This process of mutual support also applies to working with other Greek American
organizations. On behalf of PAA, Mr. Semanderes points out that,
“We like to work with other organizations like AHI and AHEPA….We
just need to educate our people to work with each other and support
things that will be of benefit (a) to America, and (b) to our Hellenic
heritage.”
Thus while Stavros Semanderes has excelled throughout his life in part through
a strong sense of autonomy and ability to pursue new endeavors fearlessly,
he has never forgotten his roots and is working hard at keeping that
cultural heritage vibrant for successive generations of Greek Americans.
AHI MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
NTINOS KARAISKOS
In 1998, Ntinos Karaiskos and his wife, Stella, launched Kominis International,
LLC. Kominis International began as a wine importing company, introducing
various Mediterranean wines from Greece to the U.S. market. Since
then, Kominis has developed a worldwide logistics and transportation
division named Capitol Shipping and Logistics, and has further evolved
to include import/export management, procurement and supply chain
management, as well as information technology solutions through its
business alliance with Kronus Solutions, Inc. You can learn more
about Kominis International, LLC and Capitol Shipping and Logistics
by calling them at (703) 560-8001 or visiting their Web sites at <www. kominis-international.com> and <www.capitolshipping.com>.
DEMETRIS NICOLAOU
In early 2000, former AHI intern Demetris Nicolaou’s returned to Cyprus to tap
his career potential in his homeland. This move has been fruitful
for him professionally as he currently holds the position of Head
of the Asset Management division of Alpha Bank. He also is active
in the Cyprus American Association, which promotes relations between
Cyprus and the U.S. Mr. Nicolaou received his MBA from the American
University in Washington, DC in 1994. From 1994 to 2000, he worked
for an investment management firm called Emerging Markets Management
in Arlington, VA. In 1999, he gained the Chartered Financial Analyst
(CFA) designation. Mr. Nicolaou can be reached via email at <D.Nicolaou@ alphabank.com.cy>.
JOHN A. SCOCOS
On April 26, 2002, John A. Scocos received the Minnesota State University (MSU)
Distinguished Alumni Humanitarian Award. The award is presented to
graduates whose lives exemplify service to human kind, and who have
demonstrated exceptional dedication and are recognized for their
humanitarian contributions and achievements. Mr. Scocos currently
serves as Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans
Affairs. He graduated from MSU in 1978 with degrees in history and
geography.
TED G. SPYROPOULOS
Congressman Jim Ryun of Kansas announced on June 10, 2002 that Ted G. Spyropoulos
of Chicago was selected to serve the state of Illinois on the new
Congressional Business Commission (CBC). The CBC is an elite group
of business people and political strategists who will be advising
the Republican leadership on how to protect the Republican majority
in the House in the fall elections. Mr. Spyropoulos was selected
based on outstanding contributions as an Honorary Chairman of the
Party’s Business Advisory Council. On the CBC, Mr. Spyropoulos is
expected to play a key role in helping the Party craft their campaign
strategy for the 2002 elections. Mr. Spyropoulos will also be listed
on the Congressional Business Honor Roll, which will be displayed
in the Republican Headquarters Building in Washington, DC.
MARIOS STEPHANIDES, Ph.D
Mr. Marios Stephanides’ recently published book, The History of the Greeks in
Kentucky: 1900-1950 (Edwin Mellen Press. Lewiston, NY: 2001), documents
the evolution of the early Greek immigrant culture of Louisville,
Kentucky, which is home to the largest Greek population in the state.
This study provides a collection of census data in prose format,
focusing on specific families and their experiences. |