History of the Order of AHEPA 1922 - 1972

Chapter Twelve: The Years 1966 - 1969

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The Forty-Fourth Supreme Convention

August 14 to 20, 1966 - Washington, D.C.

The 44th Supreme Convention was held in Washington, D.C. during the week of August 14-20, 1966. The convention officers were: C. P. Verinis, Chairman; George Nick George, Vice Chairman; Emmanuel Kontokosta, Secretary.

Supreme Lodge delegates were: Kirnon A. Doukas, X.K. Microutsicos, Peter H. Cardiges, Gus Cherevas, William P. Tsaffaras, Chris J. Zakos, Charles A. Alexander, Peter J. Chimoures, Gus G. County, Jr., George P. Dikeou, Christopher Ekonomou, Andy Panos, John G. Paulos.

Mother Lodge delegates were: Nicholas D. Chotas, Harry Angelopoulos, James Campbell, George A. Polos, John Angelopoulos.

Supreme Board of Trustees delegates were: Gust J. Herouvis, Sam S. Nakos, Peter Sideris, Peter Kouchalakos, Speros J. Zepato~, James Mazarakos, William G. Chirgotis, Michael Colias, George J. Brotsis, Peter G. Chingos, James P. Demos, Peter D. Gianukos, Tom Heos, Basil S. Milonas.

Past Supreme President delegates: George E. Phillies, George C. Vournas, Peter L. Bell, Stephen S. Scopas, Constantine P. Verinis, John G. Plumides, Achilles Catsonis, Leo J. Lamberson, George E. Loucas, Nicholas Coffin as, George J. Margoles, Nicholas J. Chirekos.

District Governor delegates were: John G. Speliopoulos, George A. Stelogeannis, Charles "Chick" Peterson, Michael J. Kavoulakis, Michael Melissas, Steve C. Arniotes, Harold W. Demopulos, James Tzellas, John T. Pappas, Kenneth G. Palmer, William G. Glaros, Nick Jannetides, A. Steve Betzelos, Nick C. Demeris, Sam N. Anton, Gregory N. Karaptis, Gus M. Lekas, Peter T. Conom, Ernest Brown.

Action was taken by the convention on the following:

(1) Passed another resolution on Cyprus, seeking a peaceful and lasting solution of its problems, and the principle of self-determination;

(2) Protested the actions of Turkey in harassing and persecuting Greek Orthodox Christians and the Ecumenical Patriarchate;

(3) Approved the U.S. government actions in Vietnam;

(4) Mandated the Supreme Lodge to arrange for proper commemoration of the 200th Anniversary of the First Landing of Hellenes in the New World at New Smyrna, Florida;

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(5) Established the Ahepa Educational Foundation as a means of granting scholastic aid, and abolished the Student Loan Program, which funds were incorporated into the new Foundation;

(6) Selected New York City as the site of the 1968 Supreme Convention;

(7) That an annual Ahepa Youth Program in Greece be established.

The new Supreme Lodge elected was: Kirnon A. Doukas, Supreme President; Andrew Fasseas, Supreme Vice President; Nick Kogos, Supreme Vice President of Canada; Gus Cherevas, Supreme Secretary; Gus G. County, Jr., Supreme Treasurer; Charles J. Panagopoulos, Supreme Counsellor; George J. Cavalaris, Supreme Governor; Peter J. Chimoures, Supreme Governor; Angelo Chouramanis, Supreme Governor; George P. Dikeou, Supreme Governor; James Scofield, Supreme Governor; Stephen J. Pechewlys, Supreme Governor. John J. Paulos was elected Supreme Athletic Director.

The new Supreme Board of Trustees was: Gust J. Herouvis, Chairman; Peter Sideris, Vice Chairman; James K. Zolotas, Vice Chairman; Peter G. Chingos, Secretary; Peter D. Gianukos, Treasurer; George J. Brotsis, Takis Christopoulos, Michael Colias, James P. Demos, Charles M. Georgeson, Tom Heos, Peter Kouchalakos, Dr. James A. Rogers, William Zacharellis, and the Supreme President and Supreme Vice President.

Message of President Lyndon B. Johnson to the 1966 Supreme Convention:

The Washington 1966 convention was noteworthy for several reasons. Thirty-three Senators and ninety-one Congressmen inserted special remarks in the Congressional Record about the Order of Ahepa and the convention to such an extent that these were all incorporated into a special booklet for distribution to the membership. Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey was the principal speaker at the convention grand banquet. Spiro T. Agnew, candidate for Governor of Maryland, attended the convention.

George Karras is head football coach at Wichita State University … District #21 (Northern California) awards $1500 in scholarships at the District Convention.

Spiro "Ted" Agnew (Anagnostopoulos) is elected Governor of Maryland, in November, 1966, at 48 years of age, the first Ahepan of Greek descent and the first American of Greek descent to be elected a State Governor. He had served a 4-year term from 1962 to 1966 as the elected County Executive of Baltimore County. A member of Baltimore Ahepa The Years 1966-69 471 Chapter #30, he is the son of Ahepa Past District Governor Theodore S. Agnew, who was born in Gargalianoi, Messenia, Greece.

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John Brademas of the South Bend, Indiana chapter, is re-elected to a fifth consecutive term as U.S. Representative … . In the November, 1966 elections, two more Ahepans of Greek descent join John Brademas in the U.S. House of Representatives, as Peter N. Kyros of the Portland, Maine chapter, and Nick Galifianakis of the Durham, N.C. chapter are elected to Congress.

John Brademas was born in Mishawaka, Indiana in 1927, and his father Stephen Brademas, also a member of the South Bend, Indiana AHEPA chapter, was horn in Kalamata, Greece. Brademas was a Veterans National Scholar, and Phi Beta Kappa at Harvard, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1949; received his Doctorate in Philosophy as a Rhodes Scholar from Oxford University, England in 1954. He began his political career as legislative assistant to U.S. Senator Pat MacNamara of Michigan, was administrative assistant to Congressman Thomas Ludlow Ashley of Ohio, and Executive Assistant to Adlai E. Stevenson. He was also an Assistant Professor of Political Science at St. Mary's College of Notre Dame University. He is on the House Education and Labor Committee, has participated in many international educational conference in all parts of the world, and has received many national awards for his dedicated work in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Peter N. Kyros, first elected to Congress in 1966, is from Portland, Maine, attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis in 1947, and from Harvard Law School in 1957. In Maine, he served as counsel to the Maine Public Utilities Commission, was Democratic State Chairman, and was active in the campaign of Senator Edmund S. Muskie. Although it was his first try for public office, he won his seat in the Congress in 1966 with 53% of the vote

Nick Galifianakis, first elected to Congress in 1966, is from Durham, N.C.

James P. Loukas of Chicago served four successive terms in the Illinois legislature as State Representative, and now was running for the Illinois State Senate … . James P. Kirie running for re-election to the Illinois legislature as State Representative.

James Brahos of the Hammond, Indiana chapter becomes director of the department of public relations at Our Lady of Mercy Hospital. … U.S. Navy Captain Steven N. Anastasion, member of the New Haven, Connecticut chapter, and a 1942 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, is host to members of the Ahepa Chapter in Charleston, S.C. on board his ship, the USS Leahy, for lunch and a 60 mile cruise at sea … . Louis J. Gochis of Arkansas City, Kansas, of the Wichita, Kansas chapter, is named "1966 Restauranteur of the Year" by the Kansas Restaurant Association … The Atlanta Daughters of Penelope Chapter donates a total of $14,544.07 to the Atlanta Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund … . Governor Warren E. Hearnes of Missouri becomes a member of St. Louis, Mo. Chapter No. 395 … . Oakland, California chapter a sponsor of "mock" election program held in city for high school seniors to educate students in voting procedures.

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… The Hollywood, California chapter of the Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope sponsor a Wine and Food festival for the benefit of the Greek Language Program of St. Sophia Cathedral.

The story of Adamson University was published in The Ahepa Magazine, and it concerns Dr. George Lucas Adamson (Adamopoulos), a young Greek scholar who stopped off in the Philippines in 1931 on his return to Greece from Australia, which he had been visiting. He liked the Philippines and started an evening class in 1932 to teach Chemistry which expanded soon to the Adamson School of Industrial Chemisry. In 1941, the local government officially recognized the school as Adamson University. His purpose in 1932 was "to equip the Philipino youth with the necessary knowledge and aggressive ability to step out into the virgin field of industrial chemistry and thereby assure themselves of success and prosperity in life." Adamson graduated from the Athens Polytechnic Institute in 1918, and while at Lamia, Greece, he started special private classes for pupils who wanted tutoring in science subjects. He graduated from Athens University in 1924, after which he opened a school of business in Athens. A success for a time as a school for ex-servicemen, he then went to Australia, for a few years, but then decided to return to Greece. It was on his trip back that he stopped in the Phillippines, and remained. Adamson University had its own Grammar and High School, and also extended its activities to the application of scientific research in industry.

Three additional young "heart patients" from Greece arrive in Chicago, sponsored by the Ahepa District #13 Heart Program, making a total of nine children since 1962, at an approximate cost to the District of between $2,000 and $2,500 per patient. The three latest patients were Maria Foutris, 7; Constantine Karvounaris, 13; and Maria Kapsidas, 13. The operations were performed without charge by Dr. Thomas G. Baffes and his staff.

Governor Robert E. McNair of South Carolina becomes an Ahepan in the Columbia, S.C. chapter … . George W. Gekas of the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania chapter elected Representative to the General Assembly of Pennsylvania from Harrisburg … Past District Governor Thomas C. Yeotis of the Flint, Michigan chapter is appointed Municipal Judge by the City Commission … . Akron, Ohio member George P. Tsarnes is appointed Chief Prosecuting Attorney of Akron … Steubenville, Ohio Ahepans donate turkeys to the Salvation Army for the needy .

… Supreme President Doukas is the recipient of the 1967 PAIDEA Award by the Hellenic University Club of New York and is honored at their annual dinner-dance.

Nick Andrew Theodore of Greenville, S.C. is re-elected as State Senator to the South Carolina Legislature. In 1965, he was named as one of the Outstanding Young Men in America … . Jim Londos, former World Heavyweight Champion and an all-time great in the wrestling field, is elected to the Hall of Fame of the Breitbard Athletic Foundation of San Diego, California. He held the world professional title for 14 years, and kept the title until his retirement in 1946. He wrestled for 34 years, and was in 2,000 matches during his career. He once wrestled in Athens at the Olympic Stadium before more than 65,000 fans, beating his opponent. He retired to his 20-acre ranch near Escondido, California.

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John G. Stampelos of Miami Beach enters the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis … . Football defensive tackle Gus Kasapis of Detroit stars on the Edmonton Eskimos professional team in the Canadian League … Pete Tountas, professional bowler of Tucson, Arizona, is awarded the Ahepa Harry Agganis Award for 1966 as the outstanding athlete of Greek descent. He was in the top 20 bowlers in the Professional Bowling Association for three years, a two-time tour champion, and a native of Athens, Greece. The presentation of the award took place on ABC television, during a televised professional bowling tourney in which Tountas took part.

Supreme Governor James S. Scofield of St. Petersburg, Florida elected to Board of Directors of Automated Systems Committee of Newspaper Librarians … . Camden, N.J. chapter honors member James C. Paera at a dinner for area college students of Greek descent, for his establishment of a scholarship fund for needy students … . Charlotte, N.C. chapter reports that its donations to Holy Trinity Church over the past 15 years amounted to $30,000 and also pledged an additional $5,000 for the Community Center.

Governor Spiro T. Agnew of Maryland is presented an Ahepa plaque by the Youngstown, Ohio chapter at the annual Lincoln Day Banquet in Youngstown, sponsored by the Republican Party, at which Brother Agnew was the principal speaker. … Kostantinos A. Kritselis of St. Louis, Missouri Chapter #53 was the recipient of the "Silver Beaver" award, the highest honor of the local Scout Council.

George Bezaitis, Salvator Stella, George Pappademas, Grand President Zoe Rummel of the Daughters of Penelope, and Gust Herouvis, headed the 1967 Ahepa Excursion to Greece.

George J. Vavoulis, Mayor of St. Paul, Minnesota, for three terms and charter member of the St. Paul chapter is appointed by Governor Harold LeVander of Minnesota as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Employment Security. In making the appointment, the Governor said he based his selection on Brother Vavoulis "powerful and imaginative leadership in the dynamic progress which when completed will have changed the profile of St. Paul."

The government of Greece presents a 6th Century B.C. bronze Athenian helmet to former President Harry S. Truman, which was the helmet of an Athenian citizen who fell in defending democracy and freedom during the fateful wars between 490-479 B.C., when the fate of western civilization was at stake on the battlefields of Greece. In making the presentation, Greek Ambassador Matsas said:

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Congressman John Brademas of Indiana receives the highest layman award of the Greek Orthodox Church on behalf of Patriarch Athenagoras by Archbiship Iakovos, the Office of the Secretariat of the Order of St. Andrew .... The new Ahepa Center in Oakland, California is completed and the Oakland chapter is warmly congratulated by the Supreme Lodge on their new building .... The Ahepa Family has a husband and wife team on the Supreme and Grand Lodges of Ahepa and the Daughters of Penelope. Charles J. Panagopoulos is Supreme Counsellor of Ahepa, and Mrs. Joanna Panagopoulos is Grand Secretary of the Daughters ..... The Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope chapters of Manchester, N.H. donate the new lconostasion to St. George's Church of Manchester.

Mrs. Frances Humphrey Howard, Program Liaison Office for the U.S. Agency for International Development, and sister of U.S. Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey, tours the Daughters of Penelope Penelopean Shelter Home for Teen Age Girls in Athens, Greece .... Supreme Secretary Gus Cherevas makes a nationwide tour of the Ahepa Domain, visiting chapters .... Chris Victor Semos of the Dallas, Texas chapter, son of Daughters Past Grand President Evelyn Semos, is elected to the Texas State Legislature .... Electra, daughter of Brother and Mrs. Socrates P. Zolotas of Burlington, Vermont is the Vermont Princess in the annual Washington Cherry Blossom Festival.

Middletown, Ohio chapter sponsors its seventh annual essay contest for high school students. The 1967 subject: "Employment of the Handicapped." ... James E. Joanas of the Tallahassee, Florida chapter receives the 1967 Distinguished Award of the Tallahassee Jaycees .... Richmond, Va. chapter honors City Manager Horace H. Edwards for his service to good government, upon his retirement. ... Providence, Rhode Island chapter follows its annual custom of laying a wreath in memory of Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, American philhellene of the Greek War of Independence of 1821. ... Past Supreme Governor Theo Polemanakos of Houston contributes $107,000 towards the construction of the new Educational Building of the Annunciation Church in Houston .... Ted C. Rodis of Astoria, N. Y. chapter #97 reelected President of Long Island City Kiwanis Club, and to the Board of Directors of the Boys Club of Queens .... George Allen of St. John's University wins the shot-putting title at the Inter-Collegiate Championships at West Point.  

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The Forty-Fifth Supreme Convention

August 20 to 26, 1967 - Dallas, Texas

The 45th Supreme Covention was held in Dallas, Texas during the week of August 20-26, 1967. Convention officers were: Sam Nakis, Chairman; Nick C. Demeris, Vice Chairman; Nicholas J. Perdaris, Secretary. Supreme Lodge delegates to the convention were: Kirnon A. Doukas, Andrew Fasseas, Gus Cherevas, Gus G. County, Jr., Charles J. Panagopoulos, Nicholas J. Kogos, George J. Cavalaris, Peter J. Chimoures, Angelo Chouramanis, George P. Dikeou, Stephen J. Pechewlys, James S. Scofield, John Paulos.

Mother Lodge delegates: Nicholas D. Chotas, James Campbell, George A. Polos.

Supreme Board of Trustees delegates were: Gust Herouvis, Peter Sideris, James K. Zolotas, Peter G. Chingos, Peter D. Gianukos, George J. Brotsis, Takis Christopulos, Michael Colias, James P. Demos, Charles M. Georgeson, Tom Heos, Peter Kouchalakos, Dr. James P. Rogers, William Zacharellis.

Past Supreme President delegates: George E. Phillies, Stephen S. Scopas, C.P. Verinis, John G. Plumides, Leo J. Lamberson, George E. Loucas, Nicholas Coffinas, George J. Margoles, Nicholas J. Chirekos.

District Governor delegates were: Pete J. Caras, Angelo P. Demos, Peter T. Stathes, Michael J. Kavoulakis, Charles Dekis, John N. Samonas, Pericles Haleftiras, Manny Lydotes, Michael Skarlos, Kenneth G. Palmer, Fred Christopher, Ron H. S. Makredes, Thomas Antonopoulos, Nick C. Demeris, Gust J. Damaskos, Spiro J. Harames, Gus Diamantidis, Pete J. Pappageorge, Peter T. Conom, Finis Coulis, Thomas P. Gianes.

In addition, there were 501 Chapter delegates in attendance.

The new Supreme Lodge elected for fiscal year 1967-68 was Andrew Fasseas, Supreme President; Gus Cherevas, Supreme Vice President; Alfred G. Vonetes, Supreme Secretary; Gus G. County, Jr., Supreme Treasurer; Charles J. Panagopoulos, Supreme Counsellor; John N. Stratas, Supreme Vice President of Canada; Thomas Chase, Supreme Governor; Angelo Mountanos, Supreme Governor; James S. Scofield, Supreme Governor; Michael T. Thames, Supreme Governor. John Paulos was elected Supreme Athletic Director.

The Supreme Board of Trustees elected was Panayes G. Dikeou, Chairman, Peter G. Chingos, Vice Chairman; James K. Zolotas, Vice Chairman; Ernest E. Dematatis, Secretary; Peter G. Gianukos, Treasurer; Chris Boulos, George J. Brotsis, Michael Colias, James P. Demos, Charles M. Georgeson, Tom Reos, Gust J. Herouvis, Sam S. Nakos, Dr. James A. Rogers, and the Supreme President and Supreme Vice President.

President Lyndon B. Johnson's message to the convention was:

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Greek Independence Day Parades

Some scenes of floats of the Ahepa and Auxiliaries in New York City Greek Independence Day parades, in various years. The parades are held annually in New York City and Chicago.

 

Greek Independence Day Parades

Floats of the Ahepa and Auxiliaries in New York City Greek Independence Day parades

 

Nicholas Vagionis

Nicholas Vagionis is credited with organizing the first of the annual Greek Independence Day parades in New York City, celebrating the anniversary of Greek independence in 1821. Brother Nicholas was a member of AHEPA Bergen Knights chapter #285 in Bergen County, New Jersey.

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The AHEPA Greek Classics Program

Between 1955 and 1967, the Ahepa Chapters presented more than 1,000 sets of the 7-volume Greek Classics to city, university, and high school libraries. A few presentations are shown below.

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The convention took action on the following:

(1) That an Ahepa Shrine for Atlanta be studied;

(2) That the people of Cyprus be given self-determination;

(3) That Ahepa give its full support to the United States government policy in Vietnam;

(4) Selected Minneapolis, Minnesota as the site of the 1969 convention;

(5) That $10,000 be donated to His Holiness Patriarch Athenagoras of Constantinople for his travels to other seats of Orthodoxy in Europe and for his official visit to Pope Paul in Rome.

P.P. Stathas, Past President of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin chapter, receives Marquette University's 1967 Distinguished Engineering Alumnus Award. Nationally known expert in public utilities, chartered financial analyst, and officer and director of numerous corporations, Brother Stathas came to America from Greece in 1912 .... Comptroller General James L. Bentley of Georgia, member of Atlanta Chapter #1 is elected president of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners .... Maryland Governor Spiro T. Agnew is honored by Baltimore, Md. Chapter #30 at a Governor's Testimonial Dinner at Baltimore on June 15, 1967 .... A nine-foot statue of Hippocrates, the "father of medicine" is donated to the Medical College of the University of Arizona by Nicholas W. Genematas of Tucson, Arizona, a charter member of Detroit chapter #40.

Louis A. "Skip" Bafalis of the West Palm Beach, Florida chapter is elected State Senator to the Florida Legislature .... Mike Broutsas of Brattleboro, Vermont, served three terms in the Vermont State Legislature, and also served as Selectman of his city .... Tom Lambros of Cleveland is appointed by President Johnson as U.S. Federal Judge for the Northern District of Ohio, the first Federal Judge of Greek descent.

In April, 1967, a group of the Greek military took over control of the Greek government in a sudden coup that left no injuries behind, only those of pride to the dispossessed. Their explanation was that the move was necessary to restore calm and balance to the nation's political and economic problems after some three years of political disruption, and to stop the imminent threat of communist disruption and intervention in Greece's political affairs. The move was most efficiently planned by Colonels of the Greek Army who also assumed administration of the country.

We will not attempt to go into the rights and wrongs of the move, for it has been condemned by many, and also praised by many, and it seems to us that the judgment of the right or wrong is entirely up to the people of Greece, who, so far, have not mounted any revoultion of their own, in protest. The Ahepa, since about 95% of its membership was either born in Greece, or is first-generation born in America of parents who were born in Greece, was quickly involved in the question.

In October, 1967, the Ahepa Supreme Lodge issued a statement through Supreme President Andrew Fasseas, which read:

It is quite common for the "outsider" to cast quick judgment on the actions of others, and practically everyone does so. It is also quite common for us to judge the actions of others, especially if they are foreigners, by using our own yardstick of life and conditions. Our advice to the reader would be to place himself in that foreigner's shoes, and to picture himself as having lived that foreigner's life, before passing judgment.

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The people of Greece started off the 20th century with the Balkan Wars of 1912, which left their mark on the country. Then, in 1916, involvement in World War I, only four years later. In 1921, the war with Turkey, and the resultant mass of hundreds of thousands of Greek refugees from Asia Minor who sought safety and future life within Greece's borders. With outside help, and with the personal sacrifices of her own citizens, Greece assimilated this vast number of refugees. Then, in 1940, the Italian invasion of the country, and the final conquest by the Germans, and five years of death and starvation.

Then, when it seemed that peace and the chance to live a normal life again was at hand, the Communists struck from within, and with outside help from Yugoslavia, Albania, and Bulgaria, brought civil war to Greece for another four years. The long period of reconstruction began in 1950 and took years, with American help. Then, in late 1964, a political struggle began in Greece, which lasted for almost three years, among the dozen or more political parties vying for power. From then on, governments rose and fell with almost monotonous regularity, with different Prime Ministers and Cabinets. The Parliamentary form of government sometimes found itself with three different governments in almost as many months. Inflation hit the country as the Greek monetary system lost favor in the world market. A vocal minority in Greece, and a minor political minority as well, exercised their leverage to continue the disruption of government. It was at this point that the Greek Colonels took command of the situation in their bloodless coup.

Again, we say, we offer no apologies for the actions taken by the Greek Colonels, but logic does demand that the onlooker take into account the involvement of the Greek people in five wars within 35 years, and the tragic suffering of the people. One cannot imagine the hardships, the suffering, the privation, the sense of hopelessness, unless that person sits down with a Greek in Greece and listens as the events of 1940-1950 are told from personal experience. The Greek does not brood on past experiences, but he does not forget; everyone interviewed in Greece emphasized that since April, 1967, economic conditions had improved considerably, benefits and services to the people had increased tremendously, people were all working, and life was good, pleasant, and calm. There were fewer tensions, and very little insecurity.

The threat of Communism? A nation such as ours of 200 millions -- with thousands of miles between itself and any substantial communistic country -- can well afford to take the threat of communism lightly. But, a nation of only 8 million, surrounded practically on all sides by Communist countries, must take the threat seriously. Greece and Greeks well remember that a unified force of only 40,000 communists almost took over the country in 1946-1950. There had been, without any doubt, a core of active communists in Greece for more than 40 years. There is little doubt but that Russia would dearly love to have either benign or direct control of Greece, and her actions, as well as those of the border countries, in the past, speak for themselves. The people of Greece are just as determined that communism will not take over Greece, nor will any other country.

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U.S. Representative Edward J. Derwinski of Illinois, a member of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, visited Greece in 1967, and had this to say:

As in previous years, Ahepa again participates in the "Share in Freedom" campaign of the U.S. Savings Bonds Division of the U.S. Treasury Department … The Middletown, Ohio chapter donates $1,500 to the Middletown Hospital Surgery department for special illumination … The Hartford, Conn. Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope chapters complete their pledge of $10,000 to St. George Church … Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania #34 presents an Ahepa Forum at Carnegie Lecture Hall, a panel discussion on "The Impact of Recent Supreme Court Decisions on Law Enforcement" with court and police officials on the panel. … Soterios Maimaris of Cyprus arrives in Pittsburgh for a heart operation at Children's Hospital, sponsored by Ahepa Chapter #34 of Pittsburgh … Corona, N. Y. #326 awards its first Scholarship Award of $300 … The Jacksonville, Florida Journal pays tribute with a lengthy article on the work of Dr. George William Karelas of Newberry, Forida, member of the Gainesville, Florida chapter, whom they call the "8-County Miracle Man" for his work as a country doctor in the vast but impoverished farm areas west of Lake City, Gainesville, and Ocala and east of Tallahassee.

In 1968, Ahepa salutes the Greek athletes of America, high school and college, by presenting their photos and sports accomplishments through the Ahepan Magazine, and the Greek-American newspapers. Jim Londos, former heavyweight wrestling champion, is honorary chairman of the Ahepa Sports Program …

Sperry G. Kaler of Houston enters the U.S. Military Academy at West Point … Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Daughters of Penelope chapter donates an $800 tourniquet apparatus to Memorial Hospital for the use of heart patients … Chester T. Cruze of the Cincinnati, Ohio chapter was appointed as an Assistant Attorney General by Ohio Attorney General Saxbe … Con G. Cholakis of the Troy, N.Y. chapter was elected District Attorney of Rensselaer County … Peter Monocrusos of Washington, D.C. chapter #31 was unanimously elected to the Greater Washington Softball Hall of Fame for his sponsorship of softball teams for more than 30 years.

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Headed by Supreme President Andrew Fasseas, the Supreme Lodge visits with President Lyndon B. Johnson at the White House on March 18. Others attending were: Gus Cherevas, Alfred G. Vonetes, Gus G. County, Jr., Charles J. Panagopoulos, John Stratas, Thomas L. Chase, Angelo Chouramanis, D.N. Karalis, Angelo T. Mountanos, James S. Scofield, Michael T. Thames, John J. Paulos, Peter G. Chingos, Dean Stavrakas, Mrs. Zoe Rummell, Miss Connie Contos.

The 18th National Biennial Banquet honoring the Congress of the United States was held at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington on March 18. U.S. Senator Everett M. Dirksen of Illinois was the recipient of the Ahepa Socratic Award for his public services to his city, state, and country.

[ Read more about AHEPA's Socratic Award ]

Principal speakers were: Senator Dirksen, U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark, Maryland State Governor Spiro T. Agnew, and U.S. Representatives John Brademas, Nick Galifianakis, and Peter N. Kyros. Banquet Chairman was Alfred G. Vonetes and toastmaster was Peter G. Batsakis.

Alex G. Proios of the St. James, N.Y. chapter elected Councilman for the town of Brookhaven … John N. Nassikas of the Manchester, N.H. chapter appointed as Special Counsel to the Republican Minority of the U.S. Senate Committe on Commerce

The Ahepa Chapters of Edmonton and Calgary in the Alberta Province of Canada presents a bust and memorial of Henry Bird Steinhauer, first registered teacher of pure Indian blood in the Province of Alberta, to the Provincial Museum and Archives in Alberta.

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The New Smyrna Settlement

On May 4, 1968, Ahepa dedicated the monument it erected at New Smyrna Beach, Florida, on which this plaque was placed

The story of the dedication at New Smyrna Beach began at the 1961 Miami Beach Supreme Convention, when Executive Secretary George J. Leber introduced a Resolution to the Resolutions Committee of the convention, which was passed by the convention, to the effect that the Order of Ahepa properly commemorate the First Landing of Greeks (Hellenes) in the New World at New Smyrna Beach, Florida in 1768.

The Ahepa Memorial plaque and monument ceremony attracted a large crowd at the city of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, on the Atlantic ocean, with officials of the State, county and city present. Governor Claude R. Kirk, Jr., of Florida spoke and participated at the unveiling of the plaque. Attention was focused on the New Smyrna Bicentennial Day celebration by nationwide newspaper stories, Voice of America broadcasts to Greece, United States Information Agency coverage, a Congressional Resolution, messages from President Johnson and Vice President Humphrey, and a statewide Proclamation of the day from Governor Kirk. Supreme President Fasseas and Grand Secretary Joanna Panagopoulos headed the Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope contingents, and Metropolitan Germanos was chief celebrant for the Greek Orthodox Church.

Supreme Governor James S. Scofield, chairman of the National Ahepa New Smyrna Bicentennial Celebration, was master of ceremonies for the dedication, Counsellor Stathatos of the Greek Embassy represented the government of Greece, and District Governor Angelo P. Demos of Florida represented his District. Governor Kirk accepted the monument and plaque for the State, and Mayor Robert C. Patillo accepted in behalf of the citizens of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Greek costumed dancing groups from St. Petersburg and Tarpon Springs performed Greek folk dances.

Congressman John Brademas introduced House Resolution 774 in the House of Representatives to commemorate the 200th anniversary, and Governor Kirk of Florida proclaimed May 4, 1968 as New Smyrna Beach Bicentennial Day.

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In his book, "New Smyrna: An eighteenth century Greek odyssey," Dr. Epaminondas P Panagopoulos, Professor of History at San Jose State College, California gives the most complete account of the founding of this new colony in America, in 1768. It is in some respects a tragic story, since the colony lasted only about 10 years, with disease, starvation, oppression, revolt, and death, finally closing the chapter on the colony, with the remaining people dispersing to other parts of the southern United States. The story of New Smyrna is given in some detail in Part I of this history of Ahepa

Greeks, Italians, Minorcans, and Corsicans, 1,403 in number, were brought from their homelands to the East Coast of Florida in 1768 by Dr. Andrew Turnbull to found a new colony. "It was the largest importation of white inhabitants that was ever brought into America at a time" as Florida's Governor James Grant said in 1768. In the group were about 400 Greeks, whom Dr. Turnbull received on board his ships at the port of the town of Coron, in the Peleponnesus, as well as others from Crete, Santorini.

As Panagopoulos describes the situation in his book:

Panagopoulos then tells of a large procession of men, women and children returning to Mani from Patras, where they had gone for religious festivities. Almost home, they were suddenly attacked by Turkish soldiers, and all were mercilessly slaughtered. While deep in mourning, and lamenting the death of so many people, the Maniates heard of an English doctor who wanted to take people with him far away to a new world, to a new life, where everybody could live in peace. Dr. Turnbull promised much; much more than he delivered, but the people went with him to the New World.

In 1768, these new colonists to America landed on the east coast of Florida, and Dr. Turnbull named the place "New Smyrna" in honor of his wife, a Greek native of Smyrna, Asia Minor. By November, 1777, the last colonist had left New Smyrna for St. Augustine, Florida, where many of them had already settled.

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PROCLAMATION -- State of Florida, Executive Department

U.S. House of Representatives Concurrent Resolution on Bicentennial of First Landing of Hellenes in New World in 1768

U.S. Representative John Brademas (Indiana), for himself, and for U.S. Representatives Nick Galifianakis (North Carolina), A. Sydney Herlong (Florida), Peter N. Kyros (Maine), and Herbert Tenzer (New York), introduced the following House Concurrent Resolution No. 774 in the U.S. House of Representatives.

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For the student of history, or for anyone of Greek descent, we highly recommend Dr. Panagopoulos' book on "New Smyrna" as an interesting and absorbing chapter on the history of the Greek in America. It would be almost 125 years from 1768 before as many as 400 Greek immigrants would enter the United States in any single year.

Historians agree that the New Smyrna Colony was the largest single colonization ever attempted in the New World under British rule, outranking even Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, but it failed due to many causes, mainly that of the despotic attitude of its founder, Dr. Andrew Turnbull, who tried to keep his colonists in a state of slavery, without hope of ever attaining their own possessions, either home or land. It was a tragic chapter in early America's history, but noteworthy to Americans of Greek descent in that it represented the First Landing of Greeks in the New World. Yet, it is a little-known facet of American history, which can be found in very few American History books. Americans of Greek descent would be doing a service lo the history of America if they would all mount a protest to our educational world, and our schools, with a strong request that future histories include this small segment of American life and history.

Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey is honored by the fraternity with the presentation of a marble plaque given in appreciation of his quarter century membership in Ahepa, and for his warm friendship over this period of time to the fraternity and Hellenic causes … The 1968 ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery on Memorial Day is headed by Supreme President Andrew Fasseas … U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, member of the Ahepa is killed by an assassin's bullet in Los Angeles in June, 1968 … Past Supreme President Nicholas J. Chirekos is elected president of the Chicago and Illinois Restaurant Association … John B. Farmakides of Washington, D.C. Chapter #236 is appointed to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Board of Contract Appeals.

The 1968 Ahepa Excursion to Greece was headed by Stephen L. Berdalis as Commander, and committee member;; D. N. Karalis, Peter Boznos, Kay Canakes, Sons Supreme President Dean Stavrakas, and Diane Rakus …

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The Denver Rocky Mountain News carried a long article on Administrative Assistant to President Johnson, Mike Manatos, with the heading: "Mike Manatos -- The Man on Call to Presidents." Mike began his service in the White House under President Kennedy, and continued under President Johnson … The Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope chapters of Bridgeport, Connecticut donate $3,000 to the Holy Trinity Church … Coney Island Chapter of Brooklyn, N.Y. sponsors the Empire District Sportsman Dinner in honor of Greek athletes … Municipal Judge Thomas C. Yeotis of the Flint, Michigan Chapter is honored by his chapter at a recognition banquet.

John Kazos of the Sioux City, lowa chapter is elected Commander of his Veterans of Foreign Wars Post … U.S. Representative John J. McFall of California becomes a member of the Stockton, California chapter … Gary, Indiana chapter inaugurates a letter and gift program to all Greek-American area servicemen in Viet Nam … Evan Scouris of the Allentown, Pennsylvania chapter donates $350 annually to the Ahepa District Scholarship Fund for 10 years … President Anne E. Hadgis of the Manchester, N.H. Maids of Athena chapter is presented with a special Human Relations Award by the National Conference of Christians and Jews at the annual Brotherhood Dinner.

Constantino Brumidi - "Michelangelo of the U.S. Capitol"

The Congress of the United States dedicated a bust of Constantino Brumidi in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol on Tuesday, April 30, in the presence of hundreds of spectators, Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and Members of the U.S. Congress.

The marble bust was presented by Speaker of the House John McCormack, and was accepted by Vice President Humphrey, in a formal ceremony honoring the artist who labored for 25 years decorating the U.S. Captiol with magnificent paintings and frescoes.

Constantino Brumidi has been termed the "Michelangelo of the United States Capitol" and was born in Rome, Italy, on July 26, 1805 of a Greek father and an Italian mother. He was the son of Stavros Broumidis of Philiatra, Messenias, Greece, and of Anna Bianchini, of Rome, Italy.

The book "We, the People" which is the story of the United States Capitol, says this about the Greek artist:

Brumidi was one of three Roman artists commissioned to restore Raphael frescoes in the Vatican Loggia in Vatican City, but was exiled to America in 1852 because of political activities. Shortly after his arrival in America, he renounced his Italian citizenship (he was born in Rome) and filed his intent to become a citizen of the United States. He took out his final citizenship papers on November 12, 1857 in Washington, D.C.

He was hired to decorate the Capitol Agriculture Committee Room in 1855, and his brush was busy in succeeding years, with the Nation's Capitol as his canvas. His work included the Senate Reception Room, Senate Appropriations committee room, the President’s Room in the Senate extension (a masterpiece of paintings and frescoes on which he labored for 5 1/2 years), the Senate Floor corridors, the House of Representatives Chamber, the House of Representatives committee room, the Capitol Rotunda (which contains his magnificent frescoed frieze of 15 historical groups and is capped by his huge frescoed canopy in the eye of the Capitol dome, measuring some 4,664 square feet of concave fresco.)

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Constantino Brumidi died in 1880, memorialized in Congress only by Senator Daniel Voorhees of Indiana and Senator Justin Morrill of Vermont, and was buried in an unmarked grave in Washington's Glenwood Cemetery. It took 72 years for a grateful nation to acknowledge its debt to this man.

Led by the persistence of Dr. Myrtle Cheney Murdock, wife of the then Congressman John Murdock of Arizona, Congress in 1950 authorized a bronze marker for Brumidi's grave in Glenwood Cemetery.

Co-Chairmen of the Brumidi Dedication Ceremony were Congressman Peter W. Rodino, Jr. of New Jersey, and U.S. Senator John O. Pastore of Rhode Island. Thirty (30) members of Congress served as members of the Committee.

Recognition was given to Dr. Myrlie Cheney Murdock by the Commillee who slated: "It is largely because of the dedicated efforts of Dr. Myrtle Cheney that Constantino Brumidi is at last afforded official recognition for his rich contribution to our country's tradition. Dr. Murdock's extensive research into the life and work., of Brumidi culminated in 1950 with the publication of an illustrated volume entitled CONSTANTINO BRUMIDI, MICHELANGELO OF THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL. It is masterfully written and most beautifully designed."

Present at the dedication ceremonies on April 30 in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol were Mrs. Laura Broumidis of Athens, Greece, and Mrs. Lou Broumidis Mais of Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts and her daughter Joan Broumidis Mais. Mrs. Laura Broumidis flew from Athens especially for the ceremony. Also present was Dr. Harry Fournier of Chicago, a native of Philiatra, Messenias, Greece, who has emphasized to the press and the Committee the fact that Constantino Brumidi is of Greek descent through his father.

With the dedication of the Constantino Brumidi bust, America has finally given due honor and recognition to the artist who spent the final 25 years of a talented life in making beautiful the Capitol building of his adopted country.

[ Read more about Constantino Brumidi ]

The following lists some of the Ahepans holding public office during the year 1967-68 (the list is by no means intended as being complete:

Peter Caravoulias, Jersey City, N.J. Parks Commissioner … George P. Mallers, Allen County, Indiana County Auorney … James K. Lonlons, city engineer of Corpus Christi, Texas … . Gus Yatron, Reading, Pennsylvania, State Senator of Pennsylvania … . Emmanuel Dimitriou, public defender of Reading, Penna … . Nicholas Zanakos, assistant District Attorney of Northampton County, Pennsylvania … Nick George, City Judge of Daytona Beach, Fla … . Nick Masters, assistant state's attorney, Volusia County, Fla.

George Papadopoulos, Sheriff of Stark County (Canton), Ohio … James Sarres, Municipal Judge of Oshkosh, Wisconsin … Louis Sarelas, Lewiston, Maine director of economic development. …

Chris Victor Semos, Dallas, Texas, member of Texas Stale Legislature … . Louis A. "Skip" Bafalis, Palm Beach, Fla., Florida State Senator. … Harry C. Panos, Jr., Lake Worth, Fla., supervisor of juvenile court. … Peter W. Lempesis, Magistrate of Charleston, S.C.

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Nick A. Theodore, Greenville, S.C. State Senator of South Carolina … Frank J. Dagres, member of Boise, Idaho Redevelopment agency … Michael J. Kavoulakis, chairman North Strabane Township Commissioners (Penna.) … Alexander J. Kavoulakis, president Canonsburg, Pennsylvania Board of Directors … James Stefan, Monterey County, California, assistant superintendent of schools.

Leo J. Lamberson, South Bend, Indiana, Special public defender of St. Joseph County, Indiana … George Harlamon, president Board of Aldermen, Waterbury, Conn … Nicholas Pappas, Millville, N.J. Zoning board of adjustment … Vasil Condos, Dudley, Mass. town accountant. … Christopher N. Rigopoulos, chairman Waterbury, Connecticut urban renewal agency … George Frantzis, 2nd selectman of Middlebury, Connecticut.

Tom Karas, Phoenix, Arizona, federal public defender of northern Arizona … JoAnn D. Diamos, assistant U.S. attorney at Tucson, Arizona … Michael A. Govatos, Benton Harbor, Mich., County Supervisor.

… James A. Jouras, Kansas City, Mo., assistant attorney general of Missouri. … Robert A. Dakopoulos, Kansas City, Missouri, assistant prosecuting attorney Jackson County, Missouri … Paul M. Kastle, chief Misouri labor department … John L. Kapnistos, assistant U.S. attorney for western Missouri.

James K. Chelos, associate judge of Cook County, Illinois circuit court. … John J Limperis, magistrate of Cook County, Illinois circuit court … James P. Loukas, Chicago, Ill., Illinois State Representative … John Geocaris, Chicago bureau of parking supervisor … George N. Maravell, New Bedford, Massachusetts, Massachusetts department of public welfare district supervisor … George Coukis, Waterbury, Connecticut assistant budget director.

Charles Theokas, General Manager of the Lowell, Massachusetts Giants of the Atlantic Football League, concludes a working agreement for his team with the Boston Patriots NFL team … Prof. John P. Alevizos of Boston University appointed a member of the Massachusetts Advisory Council of the Small Business Administration … John Stamos of Chicago is Illinois State's Attorney … Paul de Metropolis of Long Beach, California signs contract with San Francisco Giants as a pitcher, and assigned to a minor league club … Theodore Venetoulis of Baltimore, Maryland, publishes his book "And The House Shall Choose" … Nick Mavroules is Mayor of Peabody, Massachusetts … Pasadena, California City College offers credit courses in Modern Greek for the first time … Dr. Michael Antonakes is professor of English and chairman of the English Department at Salem State College, Lynn, Massachusetts.

Prof. George F. Steffanides is Associate Professor of Biology at Fitchburg, Mass. State College … Charles Mesenazos of Elizabeth, N.J. is re-appointed to a five year term as Chairman of the New Jersey State Housing Council by Governor Hughes, for his third consecutive term … Monte G. Basbas of Newton, Massachusetts, is re-elected as the Mayor of Newton … Nicholas Mavroules of Peabody is re-elected as the Mayor of Peahody, Massachusetts.

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Byron Matthews of Newburyport, Massachusetts, is re-elected the Mayor of Newburyport … Former Lowell, Massachusetts Mayor Ellen A. Sampson is re-elected to the City Council, and Paul E. Tsongas is elected to the Lowell City Council for a first term … Dr. Dion J. Archon is on the faculty of Suffolk Universitv … Dean Brelis is NBC News war correspondont and anchorman for the weekly "Vietnam, The War Week" TV program. ·

Johnny Morris (Monoporis) former All-Pro flanker back with the Chicago Bears, is sports news announcer on Chicago's Channel 5. In 1964 he set an NFL record with 93 passes caught in one season, with the Bears … George Nicolaou of New York resigns as Commissioner of New York City's Community Development Agency to become Executive Director of the Fund for the Citv of New York, recently established as a separate organization by the Trustees of the Ford Foundation to benefit the people and improve the government of New York … Cook County, Illinois, States Attorney John J. Stamos was awarded the National District Attorneys Association award for his outstanding performance.

Christopher Lewis, member of the City Council of York, Pa … John G. Sarris, City Manager of Mount Pleasant, Texas … William A. Vasiliou, chairman Board of Finance of Middletown, Connecticut … Gregory G. Lagakos, Judge, County Court of Philadelphia … Nick G. Lamhros, of Atlanta, State Representative of Fulton County in Georgia Legislature … Mike A. Klonis, City Councilman of Hopewell, Virginia … Pete Pappas of Rock Island, Illinois, Stale Representative in Illinois legislature … William G. Poulos, vice-chairman Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, City Planning and Zoning Board, and also commissioner of city housing authority … Nickolas W. Edwards, vice president of Long Beach, California Park and Recreation Commission.

Harry Ladas, director of field services, department of community development of Long Beach, California … George A. Athanson, City Council man of Hartford, Connecticut … Nicholas Giamalis, Town assessor of Southington, Connecticut … Peter G. Striphas, assistant district attorney, Orange County, New York State … James Tamsen, assistant county attorney, Orange County, New York … Peter Patsalos, City Councilman of Newburgh, N. Y … Mitchell Coolures, Fire Chief of Stockton, California … Peter C. Gaines, Stockton, California Board of Education President … Michael P. Canlis, Sheriff-Coroner San Joaquin County, California … Dr. John C. Petropoulos, Norwalk, Conn. Board of Education.

Peter L. Maroulis, former assistant district attorney, and now assistant corporation counsel, Poughkeepsie, N.Y … Jack Economou, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. County Representative … Anthony L. Pagones, City Attorney of Beacon, N.Y … Stephen J. Pechewlys, County Representative of Poughkeepsie, N. Y … George L. Pagones, Justice of the Peace, Poughkeepsie, N. Y … Peter N. Anagnos, Senior Engineer, Dutchess County Highway Department … Louis Pavlakos, City Councilman, Satellite Beach, Florida.

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Judge George M. Paradise, District Judge of Iowa, Sioux City, lowa … Phillip Dandos, Sioux City Planning Commission … Peter Perakos, Jr., City Treasurer, New Britain. Connecticut … Aristides Manthous, Montville, Conn. Board of Education … Pericles Haleftiras, Waterford, Connecticut Town Representative … William Mountzoures, East Lynne, Conn. Zoning Commission.

James Kirie of River Grove, 111., Illinoi;; State Representative … John Theodosakis, Police Magistrar of Shiller Park, Illinois … Byron J. Matthews, Mayor of Newburyport, Massachusetts … Nicholas W. Mitchell, three term City Councillor of Fall River, Massachusetts, is elected Mayor of Fall River … Anthony Panagakos of Albuquerque is New Mexico State Senator … Thomas Douvry, 1st assistant district attorney of Galveston County, Texas … James A. Geroulis, Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.

Peter Bakakos, Magistrate of the Cook County, Judicial Circuit Court. … Theodore Souris, Associate Justice Michigan Supreme Court … Gus Harrison, Lansing, Mich. director of the Michigan Department of Correction … George Tesseris, Lansing, Michigan, assistant county prosecutor … Thomas Roumell, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor … John Thodis, deputy director of Michigan Department of Labor … Gregory Tavlores, chief deputy Sheriff Wheeling, West Virginia … Louis N. Orfan, chairman Nassau County, N. Y., Drug Abuse Commission … Judge John C. Christ of Indianapolis, Indiana municipal court … James H. Bookedis, Marion County, Ind. Surveyor and engineer … John Siamas, Crawfordville, Indiana, Chief of Police … Dr. Dennis Nichols, Marion County, Indiana Coroner.

Dr. John B. Nicosia, Mayor of East Chicago, Ind … Philip Pratt, Circuit Court Judge, Oakland County, Michigan … George Caronis, Pontiac, Michigan Youth Assistance Director … Michael Grivakis, road commissioner, Lancaster, Mass … James F. Demos, Nassau County, N.Y. recruiting and staff manager. … George Nicholas Speal, Alderman of Kingston, Ont. Canada … Dennis Psoras, Baltimore, Maryland Magistrate … Paul Sarbanes, Baltimore, Maryland, member of Maryland House of Delegates … Andrew Kalathas, Maryland Social Security Director … Peter Marudas, administrative assistant to Baltimore, Maryland mayor … Charles Constantine, Baltimore, Maryland Public Service Commission.

Stephen J. Jianakopolus, Alton, Illinois, Illinois 3rd Judicial District Circuit Judge … Spiro T. Agnew, Governor of Maryland … Basil A. Thomas, Judge of Municipal Court, Baltimore, Maryland … Louis P. Kurtis, Westchester County, N.Y. Commissioner of Public Welfare … Chris Trakas, Gary, Indiana, commissioner of Plumbing and Heating … Louis Karras, Gary, Indiana City Chairman … George Halkias, Gary, Indiana City Court Judge … Chris Pappas, Gary, Indiana, County Assistant Prosecutor … Lee Christakis, Gary, Indiana criminal court Bailiff … Paul Douglas, Lancaster County, Nebraska County Attorney.

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Nicholas Mavroules, Mayor of Peabody, Mass … Nick Blase, Mayor of Niles, Illinois … Gus Alexakos, Village trustee of Cary, Illinois … John G. Glaros, Commissioner of Hillsborough County, Florida … Nick Zafiratos, Municipal Judge of Astoria, Oregon … James Corey, City Commissioner of Las Vegas, Nevada … Daniel C. Despotopulos, Clinton, Mass. Board of Selectman … John Albanopoulos, New York City Superintendent of construction for Board of education … James C. Demetriou, Westchester County, N.Y. Assistant district attorney.

The Forty-Sixth Supreme Convention

August 18 to 24, 1968 - New York City

The 46th Supreme Convention was held in New York City during the week of August 18-24, 1968. Convention officers elected were: John G. Plumides, Chairman; Dennis P. Kyros, Vice Chairman; George N. Diamos, Secretary.

Supreme Lodge delegates were: Andrew Fasseas, Gus Cherevas, Alfred G. Vonetes, Gus G. County, Jr., Charles J. Panagopoulos, John N. Stratas, Thomas L. Chase, Angelo Chouramanis, D. N. Karalis, Angelo T. Mountanos, James S. Scofield, Michael T. Thames, John J. Paulos.

Mother Lodge delegates: Nicholas D. Chotas, James Campbell, John Angelopoulos, George A. Polos.

Supreme Board of Trustee delegates were: Paul A. Karres, James K. Zolotas, Ernest E. Dematatis, Chris Boulos, Peter G. Chingos, Michael Colias, James P. Demos, Charles M. Georgeson, Gust Herouvis, Sam S. Nakos, Dr. James A. Rogers, Edward Ghikadis, Tom Reos.

Past Supreme President delegates were: George Demeter, Dean Alfange, George C. Vournas, George E. Phillies, John G. Thevos, Peter L. Bell, Stephen S. Scopas, C. P. Verinis, George E. Loucas, Nicholas Coffinas, George J. Margoles, John G. Plumides, Nicholas J. Chirekos, Kirnon A. Doukas.

District Governor delegates were: Veron S. Melonas, Mike E. Joanos, Theodore A. Boyce, Charles T. Adams, Thomas Taros, Diamond Vassolas, John E. Maniatis, Chris Johns, Charles Bertsimas, Thomas Litos, Fred Christopher, Finis Coulis, Leon J. Toulon, Ron H. S. Makredes, George Giannopoulos, Gus Antipas, Gust J. Damaskos, Leon Athas, Thomas J. Pappas, Aris Kufasimes, Ernest N. Louis.

There were also 661 Chapter delegates attending the convention, making a total of 716 voting delegates in all.

The convention passed upon the following:

(1) Endorsed the project of "Glasses for the Eyes of Greece" -- the furnishing of eyeglasses to the needy;

(2) That Chapters sponsor the program of sending letters and packages to Servicemen overseas;

(3) Adopted an Educational Program for Students in Greece during the summer, under the auspices of Anatolia College at Salonika, Greece;

(4) Honored Alexander Demit of Brooklyn, N.Y. Chapter #41, who was the oldest living Ahepan at age 100;

(5) Selected Athens, Greece as the site of the 1970 convention.

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The new Supreme Lodge elected was: Gus Cherevas, Supreme President; A. T. Tsoumas, Supreme Vice President; Louis Yankou, Supreme Vice President of Canada; Gus G. County, Jr., Supreme Secretary; Peter G. Chingos, Supreme Treasurer; William Zacharellis, Supreme Counsellor; Christ J. Kallos, Supreme Governor; Angelo T. Mountanos, Supreme Governor; Michael Skarlos, Supreme Governor, Nicholas J. Stroumtsos, Supreme Governor; Paul Yphantes, Supreme Governor. Lee G. Rallis was elected Supreme Athletic Director.

The new Supreme Board of Trustees was: Panayes G. Dikeou, Chairman; Paul A. Karreo;, 1st Vice Chairman; James K. Zolotas, 2nd Vice Chairman; Ernest E. Dematatis, Secretary; Chris Boulos, Treasurer; Edward Ghikadis, James P. Demos, Charles M. Georgeson, Gust Herouvis, Sam S. Nakos, Dr. James A. Rogers, Jack Zarcadoolas, and the Supreme President and Supreme Vice President.

The highlight of the New York City Supreme Convention was the appearance of Brother Spiro T. Agnew, Governor of Maryland, recently nominated at the Republican National Convention as the party's candidate for Vice President of the United States.

Immediately following the convention, Supreme President Cherevas scheduled a meeting in each of the 24 Ahepa Districts for the purpose of informing the membership about the new "Ahepa-Anatolia College Summer Scholarship Program" for the Sons of Pericles and Maids of Athena for 1969. The program included 8 weeks in Greece, for students between the ages of 15-18, with six weeks at the school in Salonika, and two weeks of tours in Greece. The program was set up for a total of 100 students, with a student quota for each Ahepa District. Courses at the school covered Greek language, Greek Heritage, Greek History, and Modern Greek Institutions, as well as arts and crafts, sports and recreation.

U.S. Representative Dante B. Fascell of Florida was initiated into Miami Chapter #14, and the class of initiates was designated as the Dante Fascell Initiation Class." … Sam Mihalis of the Allentown, Pennsylvania chapter retired from the Lehigh Valley Railroad after 50 years of railroading … Past Supreme Treasurer Stephen L. Berdalis of San Francisco honored by Patriarch Athenagoras with the award of "Archon Nektarios." … Steven Peliotis of Casper, Wyoming selected by the Casper Rotary Club as a Rotary Foreign Exchange Student in Greece … George N. Gianakos of Baltimore, Maryland Chapter #30 presented the Americanism Award by the Daughters of the American Revolution … Ahepa District 8 (Massachusetts) presented a check of $6,000 to the Boston Children's Hospital Medical Center for an examination room.

The victory of the Republican ticket of Nixon and Agnew in the 1968 national elections put Spiro T. Agnew, an American and Ahepan of Greek descent into the Vice Presidency of the United States, for the first time, and the fraternity, as well as Americans of Greek descent, lost little time in expressing their enthusiasm for this achievement of "one of their own." Americans of Greek descent now had the satisfied feeling that they had finally "arrived" on the American political scene.

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Congressmen John Brademas, Nick Galifianakis, and Peter N. Kyros, all of Greek descent, were re-elected to Congress in 1968; in addition, a fourth U.S. Congressman of Greek descent was elected -- Gus Yatron of the Reading, Pennsylvania Chapter. There were now four Greek-American United States Representatives in the House of Representatives.

We have given you brief biographies of Congressmen Brademas and Kyros earlier in this book.

Nick Galifianakis

Nick Galifianakis, a member of Durham, N.C. chapter #277, was born in Durham in 1928, and was first elected to Congress in 1966. He was educated at Duke University and until 1967 was Assistant Professor of Business Law at Duke. From 1961 to 1965 he served as Representative of Durham County in the North Carolina State General Assemblies. He received the Junior Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award, and was listed in the 1964 Outstanding Young Men of America, and an active member in many legal, civic, and charitable organizations.

Gus Yatron

Gus Yatron, a member of the Reading, Pennsylvania chapter #61, was born in Reading in 1927, was active in sports in school, and was both an amateur and professional boxer for a time. In business, his political career began with a 6 year term on the Reading School Board, Public Museum and Art Gallery Board. In 1956 and 1958 he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and in 1960 to 1966 served three terms in the State Senate. A member of many civic groups, he was elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968 for his first term.

Past Supreme President Leo J. Lamberson of South Bend, Indiana, appointed Public Defender of St. Joseph County … Chris Pappas of the Manchester, N.H. chapter, and District #9 Secretary, is the recipient of a Distinguished Service Award from the New Hampshire School Boards Association, as Vice Chairman of the Manchester Board … Steven G. Steffens of Dayton, Ohio chapter #113 receives highest civilian award from the Air Command … Columbia, S.C. Chapter honors U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond and Congressman Watson with "dedicated public service plaques" and also initiates them into the Ahepa.

Before leaving the White House as President, Lyndon B. Johnson receives the "Greek Delegation" of U.S. Congressmen John Brademas, Nick Galifianakis, Peter N. Kyros, and Gus Yatron, at the White House, with his Administrative Assistant, Mike N. Manatos, who also retired from his administrative post at the White House … Judge Gregory G. Lagakos, former County Court Judge, becomes a member of the State Common Pleas Court in 1969, equal to the Supreme Courts and Superior Courts of other States.

Debbie Gianopoulos of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma wins a full tuition scholarship to the New York American Academy of Dramatic Arts at the annual Miss Teenage America Pageant in Fort Worth … The Daughters of Penelope donate $2,000 to Columbia Medical Center for the Peter Cass Memorial … Actor John Cassavetes, member of Hermes Chapter #186 of New York City, receives enthusiastic reviews for his work in films and on stage …

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Supreme President Gus Cherevas and Trustees Chairman Paul A. Karres meet on Capitol Hill with the leadership of the Senate: Michael J. Mansfield, Everett McKinley Dirksen, Edward M. Kennedy, and Hugh Scott.

Past Supreme President Andrew Fasseas is decorated by the Greek government with the Cross of the Commander of the Royal Order of Phoenix .... San Francisco, California Chapter #150 presents $2,500 in Scholarship Awards, as well as 20 athletic plaques at their 7th annual Sports Testimonial Dinner for area athletes of Greek descent ... William N. Gikas of the Everett, Washington chapter is honored for his service for 28 consecutive years as Chapter Captain of the Guard ... City Council President Frances X. Smith and Civil Court Judge William C. Breenan, members of the Maspeth, N. Y. Karabatos Chapter, are honored by the chapter for their public service.

Because of the great number of applications received for the Ahepa-Anatolia College Program in Greece, an additional "Ahepa Youth Summer in Greece Program" is added for 1969 to take care of the demand for participation in the program. The new program was shortened to five weeks .... George J. Argeris, of the Cheyenne, Wyoming chapter is appointed Assistant General Counsel to the United States Information Agency in Washington, D.C. ... Nicholas S. Limperis of Chicago #203 is recipient of Loyola Law Alumni Association 1969 Medal of Excellence .... The 1969 Ahepa Excursion to Greece was headed by Gust Rakus as Commander, with a committee of Takis Christopoulos, Aliki Liaskas, and George P. Anton .... Past Supreme President Nicholas J. Chirekos receives a Department of Army Certificate of Appreciation for Patriotic Civilian Service.

Nicholas Sakis, 17, of Phoenix, Arizona, wins the 1968 Senatorial Youth Contest, a scholarship, trip to Washington and a visit with Vice President Spiro T. Agnew ... Supreme trustee Dr. James A. Rogers of the Alexander Hamilton Paterson, N.J. chapter #54 is elected President of Passaic County Medical Society.

Ahepa's first summer programs in Greece are a success. One hundred and five students and chaperones arrive in Greece on July 4, 1969 to take part in the Ahepa-Anatolia College Summer Scholarship Program, and are met on arrival by Deputy Prime Minister of Greece K. Vovolinis, Athens Mayor D. Ritsos, and a large welcoming program. An additional 144 students and chaperons began arriving the following day from the United States, to take part in the" Ahepa Youth Summer in Greece Program," a 5 week study and tour program. A total of 249 students and chaperones visited Greece in the summer of 1969 for an unforgettable experience, the first of an annual Ahepa program in Greece for high school students. These students represented 48 States of the country.  

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AHEPA Educational Journeys to Greece

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On July 4, 1969, Ahepa officials and Greek government officials, dedicated the site of the Ahepa Truman Statue in Athens, as "Harry S. Truman Plaza." Supreme President Gus Cherevas headed the Ahepa delegation at the public ceremonies in downtown Athens and Minister to the Prime Minister K. Vovolinis, and Athens Mayor D. Ritsos, spoke in behalf of the Greek government and City of Athens. Charge d' Affaires Roswell McClelland of the American Embassy read President Richard M. Nixon's Message to the ceremony. President Nixon said:

Eugene T. Rossides, attorney of New York City, was appointed as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury by President Nixon, to supervise the Treasury Department's Bureau of Engraving and Printing, Bureau of the Mint, and the Office of the Special Assistant to the Secretary for Enforcement. He previously served in the Eisenhower Administration as Assistant to Undersecretary Scribner. Gene was an All-American quarterback at Columbia University … Supreme Trustee Ernest E. Dematatis represented the Ahepa at the 1969 Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. … Emanuel Sferios of the St. Petersburg, Fla. chapter, serving his second term on the City Commission, also served as Vice Mayor of St. Petersburg. James Megellas of the Fond du Lac, Wisconsin chapter, served as head of Civil Operations and Revolutionary Development Support in Viet Nam.

John Nicholas Nassikas of the Manchester, N.H. chapter is appointed Chairman of the U.S. Federal Power Commission, the first GreekAmerican appointed to a federal regulatory agency … Dr. Theodore G. Phillips of Chicago is the new President of Amundsen-Mayfair Campus, City College of Chicago … Charilaos G. Lagoudakis, a Foreign Affairs specialist in the U.S. Department of State for many years, is given recognition for his research and writings on American interest in Greece, and the early Greek immigrants to the United States.

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After 24 years on the Nashua, N.H. Board of Education, John T. Dimtsios, Past District Governor of District #9, resigns his post for reasons of health … William R. Codus, General Manager of CBS/FM Sales, is named U.S. Assistant Chief of Protocol by Emil Mosbacher, U.S. Chief of Protocol.

Dr. Achilles N. Sakellarides, Foreign Affairs Information Officer of the U.S. State Department, completes 23 years in the State Department … George J. Pantos, 38, former director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and native of Worcester, Massachusetts, is appointed Special Assistant to the U.S. Undersecretary of Commerce … Demosthenes Protopapas, a career employee, is appointed Deputy State Auditor of Massachusetts … George J. Alevizos of Dorchester, Massachusetts, known as the "Friend of the Blind" begins a campaign for sewing machines for blind girls in Greece for use in making small articles for sale. Nicholas G. Copadis of Manchester, N.H. is sworn in as judge of the Hillsborough County Probate Court.

Vice President Spiro T. Agnew establishes a scholarship fund in Gargalianoi, Messenias, Greece, of $1,600 a year, for students of the town, named in honor of his grandfather, The Spiro Anagnostopoulos Memorial Scholarship … U.S. Navy Commander George Anagnostos of Manchester, N.H., receives a Navy Achievement Medal for his role in the recovery of the Apollo I space capsule. He was the head of specially trained personnel aboard the USS Princeton, the recovery ship of the moon-landing space mission … State Representative Michael S. Dukakis of Brookline, Massachusetts, ran for office of Lt. Governor … Angelo Andriopoulos is Chairman of the History and Political Science Department of Rivier College, Nashua, N.H.

© Copyright Order of AHEPA

George J. Leber's book is copyright protected. However, any portions of this book may be quoted at length, provided that proper credit & acknowledgement is given to the book, author, publisher, and pages.

Citation

Leber, George J. History of the Order of AHEPA 1922 - 1972. Washigton DC, Order of AHEPA, 1972.