http://www.gabbyawards.com/ Latest Greek America Foundation News en http://www.gabbyawards.com/ http://www.gabbyawards.com/ Latest Greek America Foundation News TYPO3 - get.content.right http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:44:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/libra-group-announces-internship-program-with-greek-america-foundation/ George Logothetis, Chairman and CEO of Libra Group, a global conglomerate with diverse corporate... George Logothetis, Chairman and CEO of Libra Group, a global conglomerate with diverse corporate holdings, took the stage at the 2011 Gabby Awards and made a major announcement about a new initiative his company was launching in partnership with the Greek America Foundation.

The new internship program will provide unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to young Greek Americans enrolled in college to participate in internships at Libra companies throughout the world.

Founded on the solid foundation of shipping, Libra has evolved under Logothetis’ leadership into a diverse group that spans shipping, aviation, renewable energy, hotels and real estate comprised of 30 operating companies on four continents.

Logothetis, a British national who recently relocated to the United States “not via Ellis Island but via a British Airways 747,” spoke enthusiastically about the hope and opportunity the internship program would offer young people in his adopted nation of the United States, as well as his own personal desire to help the younger generation achieve their dreams in his ancestral homeland of Greece.

In remarks that touched the audience - and given from an authentic Ellis Island podium which was used to process tens of thousands of immigrants in the late 1800s and early 1900s - he spoke of the Greek ideal of philotimo and noted that it was the foundation on which his entire business model was based.

The Libra internship program will be offered exclusively through the Greek America Foundation in North America and will offer students the chance to be placed in one of Libra’s company. Plans include launching the program with 10 slots in year one, with growth to 30 students by the third year and beyond.

Logothetis announced a similar program in conjunction with the American College of Greece in Athens, which will offer similar opportunities to Greek students. Applause greeted Logothetis’ remarks about the current situation in Greece and how he felt it a responsibility to do something:

“Given the current crisis that Greece is enduring, I believe that we, as Greeks, all have a higher duty to assist in any way we can. We should ask ourselves more how we can actively help Greece and complain less about how Greece cannot actively help itself,“ Logothetis said.

Logothetis also added that “One commodity in short supply right now in young people both here at home and in Greece is hope… elpida. We hope to inspire hope… We hope to show to a small group of young and hungry kids that it is possible, the future is bright and dreams are worth fighting for. Through this export and import of hope we aspire to inspire many more than just the students that will participate in the program.”

Stay tuned to the GreekAmerica.org website and email distribution list for further announcements about the internship program. If you are not a member of the email list, join here.]]> Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:44:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/endowed-scholarship-named-for-baltimore-philanthropist-nicholas-tsakalos-announced/ The Greek America Foundation launched several major initiatives during the weekend of the 2011...
An endowed scholarship in the name of Nicholas Tsakalos was announced, launched with a $100,000 gift by the Baltimore businessman and philanthropist, with a pledge of an additional $100,000 coming from family and friends from the Baltimore-Washington Greek American community who wish to honor Tsakalos’ work in their community. The idea for the endowed scholarship came from Chrysovalantis Kefalas, one of Greek America’s Forty Under 40 winners in 2010, who has since become an active member of the Foundation’s efforts and wanted to honor Nick Tsakalos in a lasting and meaningful way. In the spirit of Pericles, who said "What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others," the Nicholas Tsakalos Endowed Scholarship of the Greek America Foundation will provide a student the life-changing opportunity to spend an entire semester studying in the land of his/her ancestors, Greece, in perpetuity. The Foundation plans to host a dinner in September, during which time Mr. Tsakalos will present his $100,000 check and the remaining funds will be pledged by family and friends from the local community. The event will include special remarks by the legendary screen and theater actress Olympia Dukakis, who is a spokesperson for the Foundation’s efforts that surround programming for young people. The Hellenic Legacy Scholarship Endowment Fund is an integral component of the Greek America Foundation. Launched after the first Gabby Awards in 2009, the fund has provided three full-semester scholarships for students to study at the American College of Greece in Athens, offering a stable academic environment, with the city of Athens and the entire nation of Greece available for the students to explore. Applications are currently available for students wishing to apply for the Fall 2011 semester here. ]]> Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:10:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/you-and-the-2011-gabby-awards/ We have been overwhelmed by the response to the 2011 Gabby Awards and wanted to share some stories...
The most striking responses we received were from mothers who attended the Gabby Awards with their children. It was truly heartwarming to see the multigenerational reactions. According to Gregory Pappas, the Greek America Foundation’s founder, “This was the success of the Gabby Awards—that in a single room, attending the same event, a yiayia, a mom and her daughters—all sitting in the same room, all watching the same program, all listening to the same speakers—were touched and moved, and inspired.” From the Geroulis Family of Chicago, a photographic memento was emailed to our offices (above) with the following note:

Superlative is the only word which can express the majesty of the Gabbys. Perfectly calibrated, flawlessly choreographed and powerfully resonant, every touchstone was beautiful.

For me, the emotional power of those young actors on board our boats to Ellis Island was the absolute highlight of the weekend. The resonance of remembrance was positively palpable. I remain indebted to you on a deep personal level. I attach the photo of me at the wall where I found my mother's name.

I was moved to tears all evening. I want you to know that there is a tribe of Vorio Epirotans in Chicago who spent an entire evening breathlessly listening to our New York stories. With tears and laughter and in hushed, exquisite tones, my mother relived the drama of her crossing with her children and grandchildren last night. It was one of the most meaningful moments of my life as her daughter. So I thank you most ardently for your courage and vision in crafting this homage to our ancestry.

Words alone cannot adequately capture the essence of our experience, so I lean on Pericles. "What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others."

You've left an indelible mark of honor and pride on all Greeks, of all tribes, all across America. Mε ευγνωμοσύνη και υπερηφάνεια, σας ευχαριστούμε.

The Geroulis Tribe *** Dena Haritos Tsamitis, a senior administrator from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh brought her teenaged daughters to the Gabby Awards weekend and also had a similar experience: “When I asked my daughters about how they felt after attending the event, they said, ‘inspired and proud’. Mission accomplished, Greek America Foundation, from a very happy mother.”

She continued on an enthusiastic post on our Facebook page: “They've been fortunate to have traveled many times to Greece and experience the beauty of the country, the culture and its history, but this experience exposed them to the amazing spirit of Greek Americans, both past and present.” *** Finally, from Connie Varvitsiotis in Chicago, we received heartfelt appreciation of our efforts that brought a wonderful sense of satisfaction to all of the people who worked so hard for the success of the weekend:

“Congratulations on a weekend that was nothing short of spectacular. The Gabbys were the crown jewel. I'm sure it's been reiterated over and over on what a moving emotional journey you took us on--but it's worth repeating.

There's no doubt, that that evening we invoked the spirits of all of our ancestors that stood nervously and anxiously in that hall at Ellis Island, not knowing what they would encounter and how they would survive-- knowing only that failure was never an option, because there was a next generation. And that night, they were once again in that room. Only this time, peaceful and rejoicing… vindicated that it wasn't all in vain, recognizing that the Greek spirit is eternal and it should always have a platform from which to be celebrated and honored. They saw the future celebrating the sacrifices of the past and it all came full circle.

Maya Angelou once said--people will forget what you say and they will forget what you do, but they will never forget how you made them feel. That's what you guys have accomplished so well. Making us all feel--connected, united,moved and proud. Bravo sas kai pali, kai eis anotera!]]> Fri, 24 Jun 2011 07:56:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/gabby-awards-raffle-results/ The Gabby Awards raffle winners were drawn during the after party at Chelsea Pier on June 4th.... th. Prizes in the raffle included stays at the stunning Blue Palace Spa in Elounda, Crete and the Grand Bretagne Hotel in Athens, both Starwood Hotels and major supporters of the raffle. Other prizes included tickets to the 2012 Super Bowl in Indianapolis and jewelry by Konstantino. Congratulations to the following people who won prizes in the 2011 Gabby Awards Raffle. Please check your stubs to see which prize you won. Your number corresponds to the prize number on your raffle ticket stub that you retained. Number 1 is the top prize. Please call the Greek America Foundation office at 312-733-4633 to claim your prize today! 25.  Kelly Moody
24.  Nick Skylados
23.  Ethel Parthenis
22.  John T John
21.  Geroge Karcazes
20.  Stassinos
19.  Maria Grias
18.  Tim Ananiadis
17.  Dimitri Eliopoulos
16.  Greg Rallis
15.  Maria Bearakis
14.  K&F Karabelas
13.  Anna Giannoulias 
12.  Eleni Arvanitis
11.  Kathryn Boulukos
10.  Manoli Hazidrosos
09.  Franchesca Maddalena
08.  Contractors Steel Company
07.  Elaine Markoutsas
06.  Marie Ruppel
05.  Katherine Polis
04.  Joanne Kakoyiannis
03.  Ariadne Coules
02.  John Cannis
01.  Demetra Argeropoulos ]]> Fri, 24 Jun 2011 07:50:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/john-aniston-to-present-gabby-award-at-ellis-island-ceremon/ John Aniston, longtime actor on the NBC daytime drama Days of our Lives and father of actress...
Aniston's family emigrated to the United States from the island of Crete when he was a young boy. His parents opened a diner in Eddytown, Penn.

His acting career started in the lights of New York with the original NY production of the smash hit musical 'Little Mary Sunshine.' He went on to appear in more than 40 productions on and off Broadway. Aniston has also appeared in several soap operas since 1975. His role as the smart-mouthed tycoon Victor Kiriakis on Days of our Lives was his most famous and longest-running role, beginning in 1985.

He has also made appearances on television series Gilmore Girls, Airwolf, Combat, My Big Fat Greek Life, the West Wing, Star Trek: Voyager and Mad Men]]> Wed, 01 Jun 2011 07:06:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/patricia-field-to-present-arts-culture-award-at-2011-gabby-awards-ceremony-at-ellis-island/ Award-winning costume designer, stylist and fashion icon Patricia Field will present the 2011 Gabby...
Field, a native New Yorker and fashion visionary, has become the go-to costume designer for fashion-forward films. She received critical praise for dressing the fashionista stars in HBO's Sex and the City series and hit movies, which became hits partly due to Field's bright color palate and trendy designs. Her Sex and the City costume work garnered 5 Emmy Award nominations. Field also served as costume designer in Confessions of a Shopaholic and The Devil Wears Prada, for which she was nominated an Oscar for Best Costume Design. Her television costume designs include Ugly Betty, Spin City and many others.

The New York boutique owner  will also offer a 15 percent off all purchases at the Patricia Field Boutique for all Gabby Awards passport holders during the Gabby Awards weekend. An additional 15 percent of each purchase will be donated to the Greek America Foundation. "Think of it as a Greek discount," Field said.]]> Wed, 01 Jun 2011 07:05:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/gabby-awards-weekend-to-open-with-tribute-to-hellenic-film/ In partnership with various Greek American community organizations in New Jersey, we are proud to...
The schedule includes 4 films over two days, and a special presentation by New Jersey native son Kary Antholis, the current President of HBO Miniseries and an Oscar winner for his film "One Survivor Remembers." The event will be hosted by hosted by AHEPA, 5th District and the NJ Hellenic American Heritage Commission, in partnership with the Greek America Foundation.

The Tribute to Hellenic Film is open to all Gabby Awards ticket holders and the general public. It kicks off at 2 p.m. Thursday with a screening of The 11th Day, a documentary by film producer-director Christos Epperson about Crete's resistance during WWII.  It will be shown in commemoration of the 70th anniversary and the heroes of the Battle of Crete.

The 1964 classic Zorba the Greek, starring Anthony Quinn and Irene Papas, will be shown at 4p.m. Thursday, followed by a 6p.m. reception for all Gabby Awards ticket holders and the general public.

At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Antholis will speak about the life, legacy and work of the great Greek American filmmaker Elia Kazan, one of the greatest film directors of the last generation who was a household name in the 1950s and 60s with such films like Gentleman’s Agreement, On the Waterfront and his iconic America America.

At HBO, Antholis has been largely responsible for a renaissance of quality programming. He has overseen the production of multiple Emmy-winning projects like John Adams, The Pacific, Band of Brothers and other important and critically acclaimed work.

Antholis' presentation will be followed by a 7:15p.m. screening of Elia Kazan's 1963 film America America, which chronicles the journey of a young Greek living in Turkish Anatolia as he makes his way to Istanbul and eventually the iconic New York Harbor. ]]> Wed, 01 Jun 2011 06:58:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/melina-kanakaredes-returns-to-nyc-for-the-2011-gabby-awards/ Melina Kanakaredes returns to the streets of New York City-- this time playing herself and not some... Melina Kanakaredes returns to the streets of New York City-- this time playing herself and not some detective uncovering a crime. She will be in the Big Apple all weekend long taking part in the Gabby Awards festivities. The Akron, Ohio native has proven herself a force to be reckoned with as a multi-talented actor, philanthropist, director and writer. Her work in TV, film and Broadway has earned her critical acclaim. She is currently expanding her talents to include writing and producing. Her work with the Greek America Foundation includes serving on the organization’s board of trustees and supporting efforts relating to the scholarship endowment fund. Education—particularly for girls—is an ideal she has long supported. She also serves as this year’s Honorary Co-Chair of the Gabby Awards.

Melina won the 2009 Gabby Award in Performing Arts. Her acceptance speech at the awards gala was one of the most memorable moments of the evening. She will present the Performing Arts award inside the registry room at Ellis Island—the same room her grandparents passed through when they emigrated from Greece.

As a tribute to these early pioneers, she wrote a touching tribute to them that will be included in the book called “Tribute” that will be given to all Gabby Awards attendees. The tribute is online here
For 6 years Melina starred in the CBS series CSI: New York playing Stella Bonasera, a New York City crime scene detective with a complicated past.  Not only did she play the role of actor on the series but she was a writer on the show. Her first penned episode of CSI: New York aired May 15^th 2009 and featured a story line connected to Ancient Greece. In February 2010 Melina appeared in Fox 2000’s fantasy adaptation-adventure of the feature film Percy Jackson, in which she portrayed the Greek mythological icon Athena. In 2001, she appeared on the big screen co-starring opposite Robert De Niro in the film 15 Minutes. In that film she played De Niro's Greek American girlfriend and was even able to incorporate a scene in which he says "S'agapo" to her. Other film credits include Rounders, Dangerous Beauty and The Long Kiss Goodnight. Prior to CSI:New York, she starred for five seasons as Dr. Sydney Hansen on the NBC-TV critically acclaimed series Providence. For her performance, she received the 2000 TV Guide Award for Favorite Actress in a Drama (as voted by more than one million TV viewers) and was nominated for the same award in 2001. While on the show, Melina made her directing debut.  She directed her first episode while 6 months pregnant.   In 2003, she gave birth to her second child, took to the stage as Sally Bowles in the Broadway musical Cabaret and shot the indie film Into the Fire. Melina graduated Magna Cum Laude from Point Park College in Pittsburgh, PA with a BFA in Musical Theater. While pursuing her degree she appeared in commercials, industrial films and on stage in the Pittsburgh Playhouse and Pittsburgh Public Theater.  In 2002 the college awarded her an honorary doctorate degree. Upon graduation, she moved to New York City, where she quickly started working professionally in off-Broadway plays, commercials and within six months landed her first starring role on The Guiding Light. Melina’s previous television credits include a recurring role as Jimmy Smits’ reporter girlfriend in NYPD Blue. She starred in the drama series New York News and Leaving LA, and guest-starred on The Practice and Oz. She also received two Emmy nominations for her work on The Guiding Light.]]> Sat, 28 May 2011 10:04:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/euro-2004-signed-soccer-match-ball-to-be-featured-item-in-gabby-awards-silent-auction/ Adding to the huge array of exciting silent auction items, the Gabby Awards silent auction will... Adding to the huge array of exciting silent auction items, the Gabby Awards silent auction will feature a match soccer ball, played during the championship game when Greece won the European Championship in 2004. The ball is also signed by every member of the winning team and the coach. The ball—a priceless treasure for fans of Greek soccer, will be one of the top featured items. It was donated by Nikos Firios, a well-known athletics journalist and former board member of the National Soccer Federation of Greece who supports the mission of the Greek America Foundation and wanted to contribute to the fundraising efforts. Because of the nature of the item, the organizing committee is establishing a maximum bid option for people interested in bidding on the item but are not able to attend the Gabby Awards on June 4^th.

In addition, we will auction off 8 tickets to the Greece vs. Ecuador soccer game to be held at the New York Mets' Citi Field on Tuesday, June 7. Two passes to meet and greet the Greek soccer players Monday, June 6 will also be included. Finally, auction participants can bid on a Mets jersey autographed by Mike Nickeas and four Delta Club seats to a Mets game valued at $1,000.

All Greece vs. Ecuador match tickets, the Mets baseball and meet-and-greet passes were donated by the New York Mets, whose stadium is hosting the Greek team when they play Ecuador a few days after the Gabby Awards.

The Greek national soccer team is currently ranked twelfth in the world. They are now at the top of their group in qualifying for the 2012 European Soccer Championship next summer.

Citi Field will be converted to a soccer field for the game. It is the first time Citi Field will ever hold a soccer match. 

Tickets are now on sale to the Greece vs. Ecuador match and can be purchased online at http://www.507tixx.com and By Phone at 718-507-TIXX.]]> Wed, 25 May 2011 20:42:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/how-sweet-it-istop-chocolate-cupcake-cookie-shops-to-headline-gabby-awards-after-party-dessert/ Top chocolate, cupcake, cookie shops to headline Gabby Awards After Party Dessert Bar Gabby Awards After Partygoers can indulge their sweet tooth in the sweetest of chocolates by some of the nation’s most recognizable purveyors of sweet things.  New York-based fine chocolatier Chocolat Moderne, cookies by Eleni's New York and cupcakes from Washington, DC-based Georgetown Cupcake are all donating their fine products for the Gabby Awards After Party dessert bar. Eleni's New York cookies are famous among celebrities and can be found at high-end retailers like Bergdorf Goodman, Barney's and Dean & Deluca. Started in 1997 by Eleni Gianopulos, Eleni's New York quickly became Manhattan's best spot for cookies. Her shops at Chelsea Market and in the Upper East Side will also offer a 20 percent discount to all Gabby Awards ticket holders throughout the Big Apple weekend with the “Passport to Greek New York.”

Joan Coukos Todd started Chocolat Moderne in New York following a trip to Brussels, where she fell in love with hand-made chocolates. At the Gabby Awards After Party she will feature her special Greek line, which includes chocolates mixed with Aegean sea salt, Kalamata olives and even ouzo.  Coukos has also donated a unique chocolate and wine tasting experience at her NYC location for the Gabby Awards silent auction.

Greek sisters and business partners Sophie LaMontage and Katherine Kallinis used their grandmother's recipes and love of baking to open Georgetown Cupcake in 2008. The shop was an instant success, and became so popular that TLC documents the secrets to their sweet success on the hit show "DC Cupcake." Katherine and Sophie will both be present at the Gabby Awards After Party with their beautifully decorated, delicious cupcakes.  A special 12-months of cupcakes was also donated for the silent auction.

So on top of a delicious menu planned by celebrity chef Cat Cora...partygoers will have to try their best to save some room for these delicious desserts!]]> Tue, 24 May 2011 18:39:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/grandchildren-of-ellis-island-immigrants-to-sing-tribute-to-their-ancestors-at-gabby-awards-ceremony/ Emanuel Ayvas and George Psomas, two young professional entertainers, grew up hearing stories of... Their song, entitled “The Journey,” written especially for the Gabby Awards, will talk about the journey from the shores of Greece to America to the present day. “It is completely co-written by both of us and talks about the journey of those who came before us and how they have influenced our lives, and how they will continue their journey through us,” George said. Ayvas and Psomas, both talented young performers, will sing the song together along with a string quarter for musical accompaniment. Emanuel Ayvas graduated from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Music studying composition under Dr. Allen Anderson, and classical piano under Dr. Mayron Tsong. Emanuel is the frontman and composer/singer for the renowned Brooklyn-based rock orchestra Emanuel and the Fear. They have completed two records and plan to release their third this summer. They’ve been featured in the Guardian, Rolling Stone Magazine, and NME music to name a few, and have been touring for just over a year around The United States, Canada, and Europe. George Psomas is a graduate of Muhlenberg College with a double major in Theatre and Business. He was in the original revival cast of “South Pacific” on Broadway at Lincoln Center, including the “Live from Lincoln Center” PBS Broadcast. George was also named the winner of “Broadway Idol” by the New York Musical Theatre Festival. His voice-over work includes the role of "Kevin" in the animated pilot "The Upstate Four" for the Cartoon Network and Bunko Studios, and he can also be seen in the December 2008 issue of Vogue Magazine in the photos “Romeo and Juliet” by photographer Annie Leibovitz. His website can be viewed here.  George and Emanuel look forward to singing “The Journey” and paying tribute to not only their grandparents but all those Greek American immigrants who left their homeland in search of better opportunities in America. “I am honored to be a part of the Gabby Awards, especially as a performer, and I know that it will be an evening filled with people who are as honored as I am to be a Greek American,” George said. “I look forward to hearing their stories and celebrating their success.”  ]]> Tue, 17 May 2011 21:54:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/student-film-finalists-announced/ We are proud to announce our top three finalists in our 2011 Gabby Awards student film contest:... We are proud to announce our top three finalists in our 2011 Gabby Awards student film contest: Dennis Latos of Glen Cove, NY; Andriana Mitrakos of Chicago, IL; and Alexi Papalexopoulos of San Francisco, CA. All three filmmakers have been invited to attend the Gabby Awards Weekend and will have their entries screened on June 3 at the reception and art exhibition in honor of artist Stephen Antonakos in NY.

At the 2011 Gabby Awards ceremony at Ellis Island, a lifetime achievement award will be presented to Antonakos, whose 50-plus years of work with neon have lent the medium new perceptual and formal meanings.  We invited student filmmakers from all across the U.S. to create a tribute film to this great master. The winning film will be revealed at the Awards Show on Ellis Island, June 4, 2011.

"Stephen Antonakos, A Tribute Film" by Dennis Latos
"Light Inside Your Heart" by Andriana Mitrakos
"NEON: A Tribute to Stephen Antonakos" by Alexi Papalexopoulos

About the Filmmakers

Andriana Mitrakos, 16, was born in Chicago and has lived there her entire life. She is a junior at Northside College Prep High School and will graduate in the summer of 2012. She enjoys running long distances. Andriana loves traveling and meeting new people. One day she hopes to travel around the world to experience as many cultures as she can.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Alexi Papalexopoulos, 21, has found his passion at a young age. Whether it be photography or film production, Alexi can always be found doing something productive and creative. He has been closely studying the works of his mentors and recently completed an internship with two world-renowned directors/photographers. Alexi's short films have won awards and placed in numerous film festivals nationwide. He has also had the opportunity to photograph and direct top recording artists such as Fabolous, Ray J, The Cataracs, and many more. Currently, Alexi is developing a short Western film and a series of short films all taking place in San Francisco. Production for these films will begin in the summer of 2011. Alexi lives in Los Angeles where he attends the USC School of Cinematic Arts. He will graduate in 2012.

Dennis Latos, 19, was born and raised in Long Island, New York. He started making films at age 10 with a small Sony Handy-Cam. In the summer of his junior year of high school he participated in NYU's Tisch School of the Arts summer program for film to study in Dublin, Ireland. The following summer he enrolled in the New York Film Academy taking more advanced film classes. Last fall he attended Emerson College in Boston, well-known for their communications program, but transferred to Hofstra University in Long Island following his father's diagnosis with prostate cancer. Dennis wanted to be close to his father to support him in his fight which is unfortunately still going on. He recently interned at the Wendy Williams show in New York and will soon begin studying at USC's School of Cinematic Arts summer film program in Los Angeles. Dennis has confidence he will one day become a household name in the film industry and will entertain people worldwide with his work.]]> Sat, 14 May 2011 02:44:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/bulgari-to-host-official-gabby-awards-weekend-kick-off-for-sponsors/ Bulgari will support the efforts of the Greek America Foundation and kick off the festivities for... Bulgari will support the efforts of the Greek America Foundation and kick off the festivities for the 2011 Gabby Awards Weekend in New York City. The Italian luxury brand will celebrate its own Greek heritage and host the official sponsor's reception on Thursday, June 2nd at their iconic Fifth Avenue store in Manhattan. Known today as one of the world's greatest brands of jewelry and luxury goods, Bulgari was founded by a Greek jeweler named Sotirios Voulgaris in the village of Paramythia in northern Greece, where his first store still exists. Voulgaris immigrated to Rome in 1881 where he opened his second shop with the support of his sons Giorgio and Constantino. The rest, as they say, is history and the House of Bulgari would grow to become one of the world's great luxury brands, with its jewelry worn by royalty and celebrities the world over, with descendants of the original family still involved four generations later. The Gabby Awards Sponsor's reception is being hosted by Bulgari and the Greek America Foundation, with a special menu of unique appetizers created especially for the event by the Parthenis Family of Chicago and their company, Grecian Delight Foods. Wine selections will be poured by Kanenas to complement the unique culinary flavors that will be unveiled for the first time. Bulgari will donate a percentage of all sales that evening to the Greek America Foundation.]]> Thu, 12 May 2011 23:05:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/life-imitating-art-wall-street-ceo-to-present-2011-gabby-award-in-business-entrepreneurism/ Anastasios "Tommy" Belesis, the Chief Executive Officer of John Thomas Financial will... But Belesis, a native New Yorker with solid Greek roots in Sparta, is no actor. His day-to-day work revolves around rebuilding the image and brand of Wall Street and building his company, John Thomas Financial-- named after his two grandfathers-- into the next great Wall Street firm.]]> Wed, 11 May 2011 17:50:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/community-bank-founded-by-greek-immigrants-presenting-sponsor-of-2011-gabby-awards-at-ellis-island/ A new generation of Greek immigrants, who arrived in America well after their predecessors did at... redited investors was not only oversubscribed, but participation came from more than 75 percent Greek immigrant shareholders.

"With this grand gathering of who’s who, we are reminded of those Greek immigrants who paved the way for us through Ellis Island," said Kirk Karabelas, chairman of Alma Bank's board of directors. "Those immigrants came with little or no money but a heart filled with aspirations, courage and dreams of a better life. The determination and perseverance of those pioneers gave birth to a vision far grander than any they could have imagined form their home villages in Greece -the story of Alma Bank." The bank now services a diverse clientele with a special emphasis on small- to mid-sized businesses, a longstanding Greek tradition. Valiotis founded family-run Alma bank and named it after his successful realty company, Alma Realty Co. The name "alma" comes from the Greek word meaning a leap or jump. And Alma Bank is growing by leaps and bounds: by the end of 2014, they have a goal to reach 1.45 billion in assets and to add 10 more branches. Alma Bank has chosen to support the 2011 Gabby Awards because the Greek America Foundation showcases values similar to their own: a promotion of Hellenism and highlighting the immigrant success story. "Their journey to America combined with an unparalleled work ethic rewarded this generation of proud immigrants with the opportunity to stamp their financial mark on their adopted country," Karabelas said. "Alma Bank is an example of such triumph of dreams and aspirations."]]> Tue, 10 May 2011 21:26:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/vancouver-olympic-torch-to-be-included-in-gabby-awards-silent-auction/ From our supporters at Coca Cola Canada, we have received a donation of an authentic Olympic Torch... From our supporters at Coca Cola Canada, we have received a donation of an authentic Olympic Torch that was used during the torch relay leading up to the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. The torch carried the Olympic Flame, which was lit from the rays of the sun in Ancient Olympia, and traveled across Canada on the longest torch relay within a single country in Olympic history with nearly 200 communities and 12,000 torchbearers participating. Outgoing President of Coca Cola Canada Nikos Koumettis, who recently relocated to Greece where he assumed the chairmanship of Coca Cola's Central and Southeastern Europe division, which covers 23 countries, was instrumental in coordinating the donation. Koumettis was a speaker at the Greek America Foundation's 2010 National Innovation Conference (www.nic2010.org), where he spoke of the company's innovative projects that have transformed Coca Cola into a leader in environmental advancements. The torch will be a featured item at the silent auction of the 2011 Gabby Awards. All proceeds of the auction will go toward the Hellenic Legacy Scholarship endowment fund of the foundation, which gives full-semester and year long study abroad scholarships to North American students who wish to study in Greece.
]]> Mon, 09 May 2011 19:30:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/become-a-youth-ambassador-of-the-gabby-awards-weekend/ Get a complimentary pass for all official events and all-expense paid trip, on us! In our efforts to allow as many young people as possible take part in the various activities throughout the Gabby Awards "Big Apple Weekend" the Greek America Foundation is proud to announce a special program aiming to build a partnership with nationwide youth, allowing anyone thirty years and younger with the chance to earn a complimentary weekend pass. Young people aged 30 and under can be a part of the weekend's festivities at no cost if they support the efforts of the Greek America Foundation through raffle and program book ad sales. The program includes different levels of involvement and offers complimentary admission, air and hotel accommodations in exchange for raffle and program book ad sales. The Ambassador program is limited to the first 100 people to register and fulfill the requirements, on a first-come first-served basis. The requirements include: (1) Sell $2500 in raffle tickets and/or program book ads to your family and friends: You get a complimentary weekend pass for all official events (2) Sell $5000 in raffle tickets and/or program book ads to your family and friends: You get a complimentary weekend pass for all official events, plus round trip air from any city in the United States or Canada to New York (3) Sell $7500 in raffle tickets and/or program book ads to your family and friends: You get a complimentary weekend pass for all official events, round trip air from any city in the United States or Canada to New York plus 2 nights hotel accommodations (3) Sell $10,000 in raffle tickets and/or program book ads to your family and friends: You get a complimentary weekend pass for TWO for all official events, round trip air from any city in the United States or Canada for TWO to New York plus 2 nights hotel accommodations (double occupancy room) *Raffle tickets cost $20 each or $100 for a book of 6 tickets and include tens of thousands of dollars in unique prizes. See details here *Program book advertisements cost $500 for a half page and $1000 for a full page. Once you register, we will send you a complete package with tickets, program book applications and other information to help you sell tickets and program book ads to family and friends, including materials about the Greek America Foundation, our mission and why this is such a good cause!  If you are interested in being a Youth Ambassador of the Gabby Awards Weekend, please email us with your full name, mailing address, proof of age (scan/photo of passport, drivers license, school identification, etc…) Note: Must be 18 and up to participate!]]> Mon, 18 Apr 2011 06:34:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/gabby-awards-mega-raffle-launched/ Tens of thousands of dollars in prizes have been secured for dozens of lucky winners for what will... Tens of thousands of dollars in prizes have been secured for dozens of lucky winners for what will be one of the biggest and best raffles ever created in Greek America. The raffle is part of the festivities and projects taking place in conjunction with the Greek America Foundation's 2011 Gabby Awards Weekend. Top prizes include two tickets to the 2012 Super Bowl, an all-expenses paid luxury trip to Greece, with air from the United States to Athens donated by Atlas Travel of Detroit and hotel accommodations at the most prestigious hotel in Greece-- the iconic Grande Bretagne, donated by Starwood Hotels of Greece. Another prize features five nights in an ocean-view room with your own private pool and access to the famed spa at the Blue Palace in Elounda, Crete. Jewelry by Konstantino, spa and restaurant gift certificates at some of New York City's best restaurants, hotel packages, autographed cookbooks by celebrity chefs, DVD gift sets… over two-dozen prizes in all. Other prizes include gift certificates and dining experiences from New York City's TOP Greek restaurants, including Milos, Molyvos, Kefi and Fishtag. The winners will be drawn at the Gabby Awards after party on June 4th. Winners need not be present. All winners will be announced shortly after the event at gabbyawards.com To order tickets, go to http://bit.ly/fCH9kB to download our Raffle form or purchase over the phone by calling 312-733-4633.]]> Mon, 11 Apr 2011 06:43:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/gabby-weekend-to-open-with-greek-film-tribute-presentation-by-oscar-winner-kary-antholis-about-the/ Presentation by Oscar-winner Kary Antholis about the Legacy of Elia Kazan In partnership with various Greek American community organizations in New Jersey, we are proud to announce the official opening of the 2011 Gabby Awards weekend with a Two-day Tribute to Greek Film at the historic Jersey City Loews Landmark Theater, a short train ride from Manhattan. The schedule includes 4 films over two days, and a special presentation by New Jersey native son Kary Antholis, the current President of HBO Miniseries and an Oscar winner for his film "One Survivor Remembers." At HBO, Antholis has been largely responsible for a renaissance of quality programming. He has overseen the production of multiple Emmy-winning projects like John Adams, The Pacific, Band of Brothers and other important and critically acclaimed work. Antholis will speak about the life, legacy and work of the great Greek American filmmaker Elia Kazan, one of the greatest film directors of the last generation who was a household name in the 1950s and 60s with such films like Gentleman’s Agreement, On the Waterfront and his iconic America America. All films and the presentation by Antholis are open to all Gabby Awards ticket holders and the general public. A complete schedule and list of films will appear on the official weekend schedule.]]> Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:57:00 -0400 http://www.gabbyawards.com/media-press/news/news-details/newsarticle/private-yacht-cruises-and-luxury-hotel-packages-headlining-silent-auction-offerings/ Three nights onboard the luxurious private motor yacht Milos will definitely be one of the hottest... Three nights onboard the luxurious private motor yacht Milos will definitely be one of the hottest items at the upcoming silent auction at the Gabby Awards After Party. Compliments of Costas Spiliadis, who also owns the eponymous restaurants in Canada, New York and Athens, the Milos Yacht sleeps six passengers comfortably in stunning quarters. Other hot items in the silent auction include a $5000 shopping spree with John Varvatos at one of his swanky shops and an unforgettable cruise experience for two onboard one of Variety Cruises small vessels in the Aegean Sea. The two leading hotel chains in Greece-- Starwood Hotels and Grace Hotels will round up the hospitality and tourism section of the auction with multi-night packages at all of their properties on the Greek Islands, including spa and meal packages fit for the most discerning traveler. Plenty of jewelry will be on the block, as well, including hand-made designs by Konstantino and Doris Panos. To donate an item to the silent auction, email us today.]]> Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:43:00 -0400