[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 62 (Wednesday, April 18, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E773]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  COMMEMORATING THE 85TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE AMERICAN 
              HELLENIC EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION

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                               speech of

                           HON. VITO FOSSELLA

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 16, 2007

  Mr. FOSSELLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the American 
Hellenic Educational Progressive Association on the auspicious occasion 
of the 85th Anniversary of its founding. For nearly a century, AHEPA 
has been a leading organization of Greek-Americans, today representing 
1.3 million individuals.
  On July 26, 1922 AHEPA was formed by eight visionary Greek immigrants 
to unite their community against discrimination, denigration, and 
violence perpetrated by hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan.
  From its modest origins, AHEPA has grown into a bastion of 
philanthropy, education, humanitarianism, and family life. Its members 
are patriotic, civic-minded Americans enriched with a deep respect and 
admiration for the heritage and culture of their homeland, Greece, the 
cradle of democracy. Their members have served bravely in the armed 
forces, worked diligently in civilian life, and been elected to every 
level of American government.
  Each year, AHEPA contributes more than two million dollars for 
scholarships, medical research grants, and other charitable causes. 
Since the 1940s, when its health centers first opened their doors, 
AHEPA has become a world-class benefactor of improved health care. From 
the Cooley's Anemia Foundation, which issues grants to medical 
researchers to find a cure for the disease to the Bone Marrow Registry, 
established to help match those in need of marrow with compatible 
donors, Americans enjoy superior medical facilities and treatment 
thanks in part to AHEPA's assiduous efforts.
  Mr. Speaker, in closing I would like to extend my congratulations and 
thanks to the entire AHEPA family, including the Daughters of Penelope, 
the Sons of Pericles, the Maids of Athena, and AHEPA's chapters in 
Canada and Australia. May their next 85 years be as productive and 
inspiring as the last.

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