Greek-American Olympic Torch bearer to receive laurel wreath from Greek Ambassador

By Demo Kolaras

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Andrew G. Kaffes, an American of Greek descent, will be an Olympic Torch Bearer today for the leg of the relay that passes by the Embassy of Greece at approximately 4:55 p.m. Greek Ambassador Alexander Philon will place a laurel wreath on the head of Kaffes, the public relations director for the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a leading association of Americans of Greek descent and Philhellenes.

"This is truly a thrill," said Kaffes.  "I am honored as an American to participate in a special event that means so much to our country and I am equally proud that my ethnic heritage is the very foundation from which the Olympic ideals of truce, peace, and friendship were conceived."

AHEPA President Andrew T. Banis, Walnut Creek, Calif., will be present at the torch relay.

"We are proud that Andrew has been selected to receive this honor," said Banis.  "He is a fine representative of the Greek-American community."