[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 135 (Friday, October 12, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1693-E1694]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF ANASTASE POMONIS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 12, 2012

  Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
the life of Mr. Anastase Pomonis, lifelong entrepreneur and community 
icon. He was born in Athens, Greece on May 3, 1941 and passed away on 
July 10, 2012. He was an inspiration to the local Greek community and 
the community at large. He came to the Champaign-Urbana area in the 
1960s and soon developed many entrepreneurial ventures.
  Anastase, or Stacy as he was commonly known, was an excellent example 
of what living the American dream is all about. He came from a far away 
land to become a life story of great American success. Stacy developed 
The Brown Jug club in Champaign, whose house bands included the now 
famous REO Speedwagon. He went on to establish several local restaurant 
and diner chains, as well as several other businesses that thrive to 
this day.
  He was proclaimed a Patriarch of the Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox 
Church upon his passing. It is important to also remember him as a good 
father and husband. He was a man who was a mentor to many people. 
Speaking five languages and capable of reciting philosophic doctrine 
from heart, he was known as an intelligent and insightful man. He 
offered himself to the community through his words, heart and charity. 
Thank you, Anastase, for

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your extraordinary life and contribution to our community. We will miss 
you tremendously.

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