ACADEMY-AWARD WINNING ACTRESS OLYMPIA DUKAKIS AMONG HONOREES

New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. recognized five Greek Americans for their accomplishments during his 2003 Greek Heritage Celebration on Monday, March 31 in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Speaking in front of a capacity crowd of more than 300 people, Comptroller Thompson praised the great strides Greek Americans have made and continue to make in all walks of life. “Here in America, the participation of Greek-Americans in civic life is growing year by year,” he said. “Greek Americans continue to be a strong force in political life, both as voters and as elected officials. In business, growing numbers of Greek Americans serve as active leaders, playing key roles in the economic life of our city, state, and nation. Teachers, entrepreneurs, artists, doctors – Greek Americans are leaders in a wide range of professions.”

Olympia Dukakis, who received the Academy-Award for her role in “Moonstruck,” was one of the honorees. When presenting Ms. Dukakis with the award, the Comptroller not only spoke of her achievements as an actress, but also her commitment to social causes. “Olympia Dukakis is an artist of great accomplishment,” Comptroller Thompson said. “She is a dedicated teacher and thoughtful public speaker. And, she is committed to bringing about meaningful social change.”

The other honorees at the event were: Margo Catsimatidis, Philanthropist and Community Activist in West Village, Manhattan; Dr. James H. Doundoulakis, President, Academy of Osseointegration in Midtown, Manhattan; Savas Konstantinides, President, Omega Brokerage in Astoria, Queens; Harry Psomiades, Founder and Director, Center for Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies, City University of New York at Queens College.

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