Gianaris, Marshall Host Greek Independence Day Fete

At the 2008 Greek Independence Day Celebration, Assemblymember Michael Gianaris (second from l.) and Borough President Helen Marshall (far r.) posed with honorees (l. to r.): Alexandra Rosa, Leandros Vrionedes, Apostolos Koufallakis, Federation of Hellenic Societies President Nick Diamandis, Barbara Neocleous and Peter Voyiatzis.

Assemblymember Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) and Queens Borough President Helen Marshall co-hosted the sixth annual Greek Independence Day Celebration on Thursday, March 20 at the Hellenic Cultural Center in Astoria. The annual celebration honors the achievements of Queens' Greek-American community, which is the largest in the world outside Greece. The event featured traditional Greek folk dancing and foods.

"Ancient Greeks invented democracy and provided the Western world with a foundation for its governments, languages, science and art," Gianaris said. "Modern-day Greeks are able to carry on these traditions because of the sacrifices and contributions their ancestors made to win their freedom. Our five honorees this year contribute to the community in a variety of ways, from providing spiritual guidance, healthcare services, and public services, to aiding in the fight for justice and boosting our economy through successful businesses."

The highlight of the celebration was the honor bestowed upon outstanding members of Queens' Greek-American community. This year's five honorees, singled out for their

hard work and commitment to the community, were:

• Apostolos Koufallakis, Dean, St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Cathedral;

• Barbara Neocleous, R.N., Account Manager, The Visiting Nurse Service of New York; • Peter Voyiatzis, owner, Brooklyn Bagels; • Alexandra Rosa, Chief of Staff, Office of Queens Borough President Helen M. Marshall, and • Leandros Vrionedes, attorney. Gianaris, whose parents were both born in Greece, and a lifelong resident of Astoria, is the first Greek-American elected to office from New York City.