[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 58 (Friday, March 27, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LEGACY OF KOPI SOTIROPULOS

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 27, 2026

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today. along with my colleagues, 
Representatives Vince Fong and David Valadao, to recognize and honor 
Kopi Sotiropulos upon his retirement after decades of service as 
weather reporter for KMPH-FOX26 and host of Great Day.
  Kopi's story reflects the promise of the American Dream. Born in 
Peloponnese Peninsula of Greece, he immigrated to the United States 
with his family at a young age and settled in Fresno, California. 
Arriving with knowing little English, Kopi quickly embraced his new 
community with determination, humor, and a love for learning.
  He attended Fremont Elementary School, Hamilton Junior High School, 
and Fresno High School, where he became actively involved in school 
life and served as Student Body Vice President. Kopi later pursued his 
passion for communications at San Fransico State University, where he 
majored in broadcasting.
  In October of 1971, Kopi began his professional career with KMPH-TV 
26 in Visalia as a commercial copywriter at the station's launch. Over 
the next several years, he wrote, produced, filmed, edited, and 
performed in numerous commercials and promotional segments, while also 
hosting the popular program Dialing for Dollars, and quickly becoming a 
recognizable personality in Central Valley broadcasting.
  Kopi later spent a decade in Hollywood pursuing his passion for 
acting. appearing in film and television alongside notable performers 
such as Eddie Murphy, Michael Keaton, Mary Tyler Moore, Goldie Hawn, 
and David Letterman. During this time, he worked on a wide range of 
television productions including The Incredible Hulk, Perfect 
Strangers, Knight Rider, General Hospital, and Days of Our Lives. These 
experiences further showcased his versatility and talent in 
entertainment and broadcasting.
  After 10 years in Los Angeles, Kopi and his wife Elaine returned to 
Fresno to raise their family, including their children Anastasis and 
Vasili. In 1992, Kopi became weatherman for KMPH Fox 26's Ten O'clock 
News, a role in which he became a familiar and trusted figure to 
viewers throughout the San Joaquin Valley.
  In 2003, Kopi helped launch KMPH's morning show Great Day which 
became a fan favorite. Alongside his co-host, Kim Stephens, he 
introduced the show's ``exclusive 10-day forecast'', often featuring 
local residents. For decades, his work has informed, entertained, and 
brought communities together across the Central Valley.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kopi 
Sotiropulos for his decades of distinguished service in broadcasting, 
dedication to his craft, and his enduring commitment to the Central 
Valley.