[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 85 (Wednesday, June 11, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1195]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE MANY CONTRIBUTIONS OF ATHANASIOS (TOM) 
   ALAFOGIANNIS, A LEADER IN QUEENS AND THE GREEK AMERICAN COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 10, 2003

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, with great sadness I rise to pay tribute 
to Athanasios (Tom) Alafogiannis, a much admired and beloved leader of 
the Greek-American community in Queens. Unfortunately, Tom Alafogiannis 
passed away last week, leaving much of the community in mourning.
  Tom was born in Dafno, Greece on February 28th, 1933. Talented with 
his hands, Tom completed the technical school of engineering. Although 
he was a hard worker who loved his family, he decided to leave Greece 
to seek a better life in America.
  At the age of 36 he came to the United States, working his way over 
as a ship's engineer. In America, he attended school and became a 
licenced master plumber. His talents were quickly recognized and he 
built a successful business. In 1969 he married the love of his life, 
Rose Anne Benevento. They have four children: Apostolos (Paul), 
Jennifer, Joseph and Vasilios (Billy).
  Understanding the responsibilities that come with prosperity, Tom 
devoted a great deal of time and attention to giving back to the 
community. His unwavering dedication and boundless energy made him a 
popular leader. He served as President of the Hermes Chapter of AHEPA, 
three time President of the Greek American Homeowners and President of 
Sterea Hellas. Concerned with the quality of life in Astoria, he became 
a member of Queens Community Board 1. As a successful business leader, 
he became a member of the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club.
  Tom never became involved in anything halfway. In every organization 
in which he participated, he left his mark. Tom was, quite simply, a 
charming man of great energy and deep concern for others. He will be 
sorely missed.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life and 
accomplishments of Tom Alafogiannis, a truly remarkable man.

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