Vallone Celebrates Greek Independence At Parade

(L. to r.): Paul Vallone, candidate for the 19th City Council District, Bayside, Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in America, Exarch of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and Chairman of the Holy Eparchial Synod of Bishops, Congressmember Carolyn Maloney, Parade Grand Marshal Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias and City Councilmember Peter F. Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria). Calling "Zito e ellas" ("Long Live Greece") to the crowds of spectators who lined Fifth Avenue in Manhattan waving blue and white Greek flags, City Councilmember Peter F. Vallone Jr. celebrated the 188th anniversary of Greek independence during the annual Greek Independence Day Parade on April 26. Vallone's 22nd Council District is home to the largest Greek population outside of Greece. The Greek Independence Day parade is the largest Greek cultural event in the country.

(L. to r.): Assemblymembers Frank Skartados (DPoughkeepsie Newburgh) and Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria- Long Island City), Mayor Michael Bloomberg, City Councilmember Peter F. Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria) and Paul Vallone, candidate for the 19th City Council District in Bayside.