[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 15564-15565]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING NICK KAVADAS AND OTHER MEMBERS OF THE AMERICAN HELLENIC 
                  EDUCATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 27, 2012

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration 
that I stand before you today to honor Nick Kavadas, who has been 
recognized by the American Hellenic Educational Progressive 
Association, AHEPA, as Chapter, District, and National Ahepan of the 
Year. AHEPA honored Nick at a celebratory reception that took place on 
Saturday, November 10, 2012, at Dynasty Banquets in Hammond, Indiana. 
Also honored at the event were Pete Kavadas, for his heroic efforts at 
a recent AHEPA conference, and Joseph Skora, who received the 
Prometheus Award in recognition of his many years of service to AHEPA.
  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, to promote civic responsibility, 
education, philanthropy, family, and individual excellence through 
volunteerism and community service.
  On November 10, AHEPA honored Nick Kavadas, AHEPA Supreme Governor of 
Region 6 representing districts 12, 13, and 14 of the Supreme Lodge, 
who has been an outstanding leader, and who has worked tirelessly to 
develop AHEPA in presence and membership throughout the state of 
Indiana. Under Supreme Governor Kavada's direction, AHEPA membership 
has grown to its highest level this year with over 450 members in the 
state of Indiana. Brother Nick has spearheaded many of AHEPA's 
charitable endeavors supporting worthy causes including the Saint 
Baldrick's Foundation, which does exceptional work for children's 
cancer research, the National Hellenic Foundation, the National 
Hellenic Museum, Greek relief efforts, and the District #12 Scholarship 
Foundation, among many other charitable endeavors. Over the years, Nick 
has held numerous positions including serving on the Gary/Merrillville 
Chapter #78 Board of Governors, as Lieutenant Governor and Governor of 
Hoosier District #12, and as Chairman of the Standing Governor's 
Committee. Nick Kavadas has been able to touch the lives of countless 
individuals through his work with AHEPA, and for his passionate, 
selfless life of public service, he is worthy of

[[Page 15565]]

the highest praise. I am pleased that AHEPA has recognized these 
admirable contributions with such a prestigious award.
  Nick's brother, Pete Kavadas, was also honored at this event for his 
heroic efforts in a critical situation. While attending an AHEPA 
conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, Pete came across a young man who was 
contemplating suicide by jumping off of the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge. 
Pete, along with the help of his brother, persuaded the young man to 
cease his efforts and obtain the help he needed. For his courageous 
efforts, Pete is an inspiration, and we are grateful for his incredible 
bravery in this dire situation.
  Joseph Skora was honored at the event with the Prometheus Award in 
recognition of his many years of service to the organization. Joseph 
has been one of the most involved members in the Gary/Merrillville 
Chapter #78 as well as Hoosier District #12. Brother Joe has worked 
extensively with AHEPA housing and serves as a board member for AHEPA 
Chapter #78's Housing Board. Brother Joe also served as the Assistant 
Project Manager for part of the construction of the six apartment 
phases in Merrillville, Indiana, which provide housing for senior 
citizens. He has also been the manager of repairs and improvement 
projects for the AHEPA apartments. For his many years of service and 
noteworthy dedication to AHEPA, Joseph is to be commended.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in congratulating AHEPA Brother Nick Kavadas as he 
is recognized as Ahepan of the Year, Brother Pete Kavadas for his 
heroic efforts, and Brother Joseph Skora as he is honored with the 
Prometheus Award. For their remarkable leadership, commitment, and 
enthusiasm shown through their service to so many in need throughout 
Northwest Indiana and across the nation, they are worthy of the honors 
bestowed upon them, and I am proud to represent them in Congress.

                          ____________________