AHEPANS EXPRESS ELATION 
OVER SUCCESSFUL 
OLYMPIC GAMES



WASHINGTON--The members of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the largest and oldest grassroots, membership-based organization of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, are elated by the successful staging of the 28th Olympiad and congratulate the Athens Organizing Committee, the Government of Greece, the City of Athens, and the citizens of Greece for an excellent job, announced Supreme President Franklin R. Manios.

The following is a statement about the 2004 Olympic games from President Manios:

"From the inspiring moment the Opening Ceremony commenced to the stirring conclusion when the Olympic Flame was extinguished, the Games of the Twenty-eighth Olympiad were presented and organized impeccably, efficiently, and impressively. We were moved by the uniqueness of the Games as they returned to their birthplace, and in one instance, to Ancient Olympia itself.

"The people of Greece embraced the citizens of the world by demonstrating the warm, friendly quality of hospitality for which they are renown. Moreover, a global audience witnessed a modern and vibrant Greek nation over two memorable weeks.

"Equally important, the Games were conducted in a safe, yet not suffocating manner so that all participants could enjoy them and the beauty of Greece.

"We are proud of Greece's triumphant journey over adversity and the logistical and financial challenges presented by hosting such a grand event in a post-September 11 world. The Games are an investment in Greece's future with the residual effects elevating her position among European nations. In time the investment, mostly in infrastructure, will pay dividends.

"Ultimately, the Games' success is a testament to the passion, strong will, and tremendous national pride instilled in the hearts and souls of the people of Greece."

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Andrew G. Kaffes
Director of Public Relations
American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association
AHEPA
1909 Q St., NW
Suite 500
Washington, DC 20009
Phone 202.232.6300; Ext .204
Fax 202.232.2140

http://www.ahepa.org
akaffes@ahepa.org