GABBY Awards at historic Ellis Island, NY

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This year, the Gabby Awards ceremony took place at Ellis Island, New York. The event, organized by the Greek America Foundation and hosted by Gregory Pappas was an outstanding success. Awards recognizing Greek Americans were presented in several categories including Science, Arts, Politics, Education and Philanthropy.

By Alexander Mizan

The black-tie event was exceptionally orchestrated and produced. With the Manhattan skyline as backdrop, the awards ceremony took place inside the Immigration Hall of Ellis Island. It was a galvanizing experience to be celebrating the success of first, second and third generation Greek-Americans inside the building where hundreds of immigrants from all walks of life got their start in the New World: a true testament to the American Dream and how this country offers the opportunity to go from rags to riches within the span of a generation or less, provided one works hard.

Among the passengers on the Ellis Island ferry, we had the pleasure of encountering several “original immigrants” from back in the day, a wonderful addition to a well-directed experience. Dressed in traditional early 20th century clothing, one approached us worried about whether he would be let in the country, another woman worried if the husband-to-be will come meet her upon arrival.

After the cocktail reception, the Awards Ceremony started. Among other honorees, the recipient of the Award in Politics was US Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME). The award was presented by award-winning actor and Los Angeles resident John Aniston.

Academy Award-winning actress and 2009 Gabby Award-winner Olympia Dukakis presented the 2011 “Lifetime Achievement” award to her cousin, Michael Dukakis, former Governor of Massachusetts and U.S. Presidential Candidate. Gov. Dukakis, certainly moved, spoke of his ancestry and how responsible public service is what made and hopes will continue to make this country exceptional.

Dr. Linda Katehi, the Chancellor of the University of California, Davis, was the honoree of the Gabby Award in Academics. She was presented with the Award by Mr. David Horner, President of the American College of Greece. AHEPA Supreme President Mr. Nick Karakostas was the recipient of the Gabby award for “Promotion of Hellenism” while Fox Films Entertainment co-CEO Mr. Jim Gianopulos, won the award for Business and Entrepreneurship.

After the Awards Ceremony, Mr. George Logothetis, the Chairman and CEO of the Libra Group, announced a new internship program in partnership with the Greek America Foundation. In a truly moving, yet humble speech, he spoke of the need for Greeks all over the world to support one another. Focusing on the difficult times that Greece is going through currently, he encouraged everyone to do something to help and started by taking action and not just stopping at words.

The ceremony ended with a performance by famous Greek singer Glykeria and her orchestra.

Subsequently, we took the boat ride back to Manhattan for a reception with food designed by Greek-American Iron Chef and Santa Barbara resident Cat Cora. We had the pleasure of enjoying the delicious food while feeling the cool breeze of the Hudson in an exceptionally humidity-free night in New York City.

The wonderful evening ended with traditional live Greek music and dancing that in typical Greek fashion did not end until the small hours of the next day…


©2011 NEOCORP MEDIA







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