[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 147 (Tuesday, October 4, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1754-E1755]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   NICK GIANIKOS, AHEPAN OF THE YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 4, 2011

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration 
that I stand before you today to honor Nick Gianikos as he is 
recognized by the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association 
(AHEPA) as Chapter, District, and National Ahepan of the Year. AHEPA 
will be honoring Nick at the AHEPA, Chapter 78 meeting on October 5, 
2011, at the Hobart Lodge in Hobart, Indiana.
  The Order of AHEPA was founded on July 26, 1922, in Atlanta, Georgia, 
joining the NAACP and B'nai B'rith in the effort to end racism, 
bigotry, and discrimination against all immigrants. AHEPA was founded 
on the principles of ancient Greece promoting civic responsibility, 
education, philanthropy, family, and individual excellence through 
volunteerism and community service.
  Nick Gianikos, Chapter 78 President of Philanthropy, has been a 
tremendous leader and a true inspiration. He has been able to touch the 
lives of many individuals through his position and has done so 
passionately and persistently. Through these trying economic times, the 
number of people in need is great. Due to Nick's direction and 
unwavering dedication, he has been able to plan and execute several 
projects with the help of other devoted Ahepan brothers and the 
chapter's Philanthropy Committee. For his outstanding commitment to 
serving those in need, Nick is to be commended.
  Under Brother Gianikos's leadership, Chapter 78's Philanthropy 
Committee has initiated projects, team visits, and social events with 
many organizations, including: the Ross Township Food Pantry and Senior 
and Disabled Bus Service Support, Christian Haven House, Meals on 
Wheels, Veterans for Life Changing Services, Saint Jude House, Saints 
Monica and Luke Soup Kitchen, Saint Iakovos Church, Saints Constantine 
and Helen Church, Sojourner Truth House, Rebuilding South Lake

[[Page E1755]]

County, the Salvation Army, and the Merrillville Boys and Girls Club. 
In addition, this past year, Nick chaired the Chapter 78 Membership 
Committee, which focused on finding new members who wish to participate 
in AHPEA functions and commit to projects that adhere to AHEPA's goals.
  Brother Gianikos's commitment to AHEPA and to serving others in the 
community of Northwest Indiana is exceeded only by his devotion to his 
amazing family. He and his wonderful wife Maureen have two beloved 
children and five adoring grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in congratulating AHEPA and Brother Nick Gianikos as 
he is recognized as Ahepan of the Year for his excellent leadership, 
perseverance, and everlasting enthusiasm shown through his service to 
so many in need throughout Northwest Indiana and across the nation. For 
his outstanding contributions to Indiana's First Congressional 
District, Nick is worthy of the highest praise.

                          ____________________