[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 127 (Wednesday, August 2, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


             SALUTING THE UNITED CHIOS SOCIETIES OF AMERICA

                                 ______


                            HON. JACK FIELDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, August 2, 1995

  Mr. FIELDS. Mr. Speaker, I want to salute the fine work of the United 
Chios Societies of America on the occasion of the organization's 
upcoming second international convention. That second international 
convention will be held in Chios, Greece, from August 9 to 13.
  Members of the Chios Societies of America work for the betterment of 
the citizens of Chios, a Greek island that played a prominent role in 
Greece's war for independence in 1822. But through their membership in 
the Chios Societies of America, individuals of Greek descent celebrate 
their identity while also preserving their ancient heritage.
  Chian societies date back to the early 20th century, when they were 
founded chiefly as social groups for men with common interests and a 
common heritage who found themselves living in a new land thousands of 
miles from their native Greece. Scattered throughout the northeast, the 
organizations had little contact with one another until the 1930's, 
when Andrew Poutos, a young and dynamic Chian, established a national 
organization.
  In the years since the national organization was founded, its members 
have joined together to help the men, women, and children of Chios in a 
variety of ways--as well as to strengthen and preserve their heritage 
of which they are so justifiably proud.
  America is understandably proud of being the world's melting pot. But 
all Americans, whatever their nationality retain a special emotional 
tie to the lands of their ancestors--and the members of the Chios 
Societies of America are no different.
  Mr. Speaker, please join with me in wishing the members and officers 
of the Chios Societies of America--especially Mr. Nick Marinakis of New 
York, who will serve as convention chairman, and his brother, Markos 
Marinakis, also of New York--well as they hold their second 
international convention next week.


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