AHEPA presents Governor Pataki with $25,000 donation for September 11 Relief

AHEPA presents Gov. Pataki with a $25,000 donation. (L-R): Supreme Counselor Nicholas Karacostas, Supreme Governor James Gounaris, Supreme President Andrew T. Banis, Governor George Pataki, Chairman of the Board A. Steve Betzelos, and Executive Director Demosthenes Kolaras.

NEW YORK-The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the largest and oldest association of Americans of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, presented to New York Governor George Pataki today a $25,000 donation to the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund.

"We proudly offer our assistance to the families and dependents of the victims of September 11 with this contribution to the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund," said Supreme President Andrew T. Banis. The supreme president also commended the governor for his leadership and dedication to the citizens of New York following the tragic events and thanked him for his steadfast support of Greek-American issues.

In response, Governor Pataki expressed his appreciation on behalf of the families affected by the tragedy of September 11.

"The families are just so moved by the charity and the understanding that has been exhibited by you and by the other organizations and we are grateful," said Gov. Pataki. He added that the American Hellenic community has been terrific in reaction to September 11 after suffering the loss of 23 Greek-Americans and the destruction of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. He pledged that the church would be rebuilt.

"We can bring back the church but we can't bring back the people however your support means a great deal," said Gov. Pataki. The governor, who is an Honorary Chairman for the 80th Annual AHEPA Supreme Convention that will officially commence tomorrow in New York, described the annual meeting as a "positive thing for New York."

Chairman of the Board A. Steve Betzelos, Supreme Counselor Nicholas Karacostas, Supreme Governor James Gounaris, and Executive Director Demosthenes Kolaras accompanied Banis to the presentation.

For more information about the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund, visit www.helping.org/wtc/ny/nystate.htm. The fund is for the benefit of all victims both injured and deceased, including innocent civilians, the dedicated public safety officials and relief workers.