Chicago's Greek Media Club "Summer Kickoff Party" THURSDAY, JUNE 17 FROM 7-11 PM AT THE PARK HYATT HOTEL (right off Michigan Avenue at the Water Tower). Go to the outdoor terrace (same floor as Nomi Restaurant). GMC tables reserved in the back area at the railing. Cash bar, food & appetizer menu. Semi-biz casual attire (it’s outdoor but upscale so employ style judgment please). On premises valet parking with self-park nearby. RSVP not necessary. Forecast: 80-plus degrees and no rain!
ENTICEMENTS: Inspiring view of skyscrapers, ticket giveaway to the July 10 Mitropanos concert (courtesy of Greek Promotions Live; see newsletter below), and the chance to interact with an eclectic mix of creative, communicative `media’ types and their kind guests (mystery guest is a 7-foot former Chicago Bulls player). In the unlikely event rain eludes Doppler’s radar, we’ll adjourn to Pippens (806 North Rush Street). Visit http://parkchicago.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp.
Rain or shine, we’re on. Hope to see you then! Your GMC co-directors…
George Bliss (312) 217-0510 Terry Poulos (708) 975-0571 .
THIS FRIDAY JUNE 18 WITH SEN. SNOWE: Get your tickets now, ladies! Plato Academy of Morton Grove hosts an evening with U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe (R-Maine) on Friday, June 18 to raise awareness about breast cancer. Dinner and presentation. Emcee is our GMC “cousin” Jane Monzures, host of WGN TV‘s “Living Healthy Chicago.” Event takes place at Rosewood Banquets in Rosemont. The theme: “It’s Not Just a Color.” There will also be a presentation by Dr. Virginia Kaklamani, the Lynn Sage Research Fellow at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Proceeds benefit the Lynn Sage Foundation, the Maggie Daley Cancer Center, and the educational programs of Plato Academy, whose community has been touched recently by breast cancer. This is an important issue and an important event for the women and men of our community. For more information, email Marianthi Koritsaris, Plato Academy Director, at .
JUNE 23 JAZZ PERFORMANCE: Soon-to-be GMC “cousin” Nikki George (she promised to visit us this Thursday!) is a local jazz virtuoso. She sings Tuesday, June 23 at M Lounge, 1520 S. Wabash St., Chicago from 7-10 pm. Come on out and check out Nikki and the Nikki George Trio. Visit www.ChicagoJazz.com/NikkiGeorge.
MITROPANOS CONCERT JULY 10: The all-time Greek singing legend is performing live at the Horseshoe Casino July 10. Dimitris Mitropanos is the reknowned Laiko singer that generations have enjoyed. Tickets starting at $85. Phone (630) 234-2183 or (630) 205-1403. Local promoters www.GreekPromotionsLive.com.
GMC “COUSINS” FINALISTS FOR TECH AWARD: Akoo International Inc. of Elmwood Park, IL, helmed by President Niko Drakoulis and co-founder/EVP John Karantonis, this April was named a finalist for the Illinois Technology Association’s 2010 “Rising Star” award, recognizing companies which through innovation in products and services have emerged to become a solid presence in the marketplace. Akoo is "the world's largest social music TV network, reaching 64.5 million monthly engaged viewers in out-of-home environments across the U.S.,” according to promotional materials. We especially like that international singing sensation Shakira gives a testimonial for Akoo on their website www.Akoo.com. Recently joining Akoo full-time in marketing is our “cousin” Peter Drakoulis, who’s doing double duty with www.HellenicRadio.com as well. Akoo is a past GMC exclusive event sponsor.
AWARDS NOMINEE: One of the key producers behind the scenes at ABC7 Chicago, Cathy Vlahogiannis, saw four of the shows she produces nominated for 2010 Illinois Broadcasters Association “Silver Dome Awards.” The shows include “190 North,” “Countdown Chicago,” “Let’s Dish,” and “The Magnificant Mile Lights Fest.”
ABC FAMILY PRODUCER STARTS OWN FAMILY: Another ABC stalwart, our “cousin“ producer Cathy Demos, has been a fixture at Disney’s ABC Family TV networks, working behind the scenes for years. Recently, she started her own family, that is she was married to Chris Kappos in August 2009. Demos works for ABC TV’s cable division in national sales and continues to support the Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Center, where she served on the spring gala committee. They held their annual benefit May 15 at the Horseshoe Casino. Visit www.GreekAmericanCare.org.
STARS COME OUT FOR NHS IN ARIZONA: In late April, the National Hellenic Society, an exclusive group organized to assist other philanthropies and establish programs that perpetuate Hellenism in America, held their annual social weekend at the opulent Phoenician Resort in Scottsdale, AZ. We “dispatched” GMC co-director Terry Poulos to report back (he’s been affiliated with the NHS for the past five years). Headlining the event was Tony Orlando, multi-platinum recording artist, who performed a private concert. Our GMC “cousin” Ariana Savalas, who was the special guest at our February GMC event, sang her signature jazz staples at the NHS’ Thursday night opening reception, and veteran TV soap opera actor John Aniston continued to make the ladies swoon during NHS weekend. Perhaps most enticing, the man a growing chorus continues to refer to as “the most powerful man in Hollywood,“ FOX Filmed Entertainment chief Jim Gianopulos, gave a memorable and profound presentation on Greeks in Hollywood. Introducing Gianopulos was his longtime friend and associate, former ABC Network News chief Tony Thomopoulos. Further gracing the event was our “cousin” Stephanie Vlahakis, executive director of the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago, who attended with her husband John Vlahakis, principal of Earth Friendly Products and author of the environmental blog www.EarthyReport.com. Newspaper publishers John Saltas (Salt Lake City) and Frosene Phillips (San Francisco; www.HellenicJournal.com), and former NBC and CBS network producer Dorie Klissas were also on hand. For more, visit www.HellenicSociety.org, www.ArianaSavalas.com, and www.TonyOrlando.com. Milwaukee-based Dr. George Korkos is chairman of the NHS, and our own Chicago “cousin“ Endy Zemenides, chief political aide to US Senate nominee Alexi Giannoulias, sits on the executive board along with Naperville, IL-based mutual fund manager John Calamos, a man who's also on the board of the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago. Art Dimopoulos, publisher of www.Odyssey.org magazine, coordinated the weekend’s informational programming. He‘s also on the executive board.
HELLENIC MUSEUM SHOWTIMES! Save the dates! Our Chicago and national treasure, the National Hellenic Museum in Greektown, hosts the following this Summer and Fall…Tuesday, June 29 (DVD release party for the film “Percy Jackson and the Olympians,” with a chance to win merchandise and DVDs; refreshments and cakes served; games, crafts, and fun for the whole family; dress as favorite character for 10-percent discount; entrance fee $5 with children under 12 admitted free)…Current exhibit through Oct. 31 is the political satire cartoons of Bill Papas (longtime chief political cartoonist for The Guardian newspaper of London)…Saturday, July 31 “Heritage Ride for Hellenic Pride” (motorcycle fundraiser benefiting the Museum)…Annual gala Oct. 23 at the Hilton Hotel in Chicago, with the theme “Contributors to Greek History, Culture and Art Hall of Fame.” Thanks to our PR “cousin” Toni Callas at the Museum for always keeping us in the loop on their offerings. Log on to www.HellenicMuseum.org or www.NationalHellenicMuseum.org for more information.
D.C. MEDIA: While attending the National Hellenic Society event, Terry met some new “cousins” from around the nation. www.RadioOlympus.com is based in Washington D.C. and is national in scope, hosted by Artemis Skenteris Dimopoulos, Sophia Dimopoulos, and George Wallace. Artemis was once an intern for the famous “George Michael Sports Machine” nationally syndicated TV show on NBC Universal. Artemis is married to attorney Art Dimopoulos, also publisher of the popular Odyssey Magazine www.Odyssey.org. George began his broadcast career at WMUC on the campus of the U. of Maryland, performing play-by-play for football and basketball. He worked for Westwood One radio and covered the Summer Olympics in Athens 2004, and the Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy.
BOSTON MEDIA: The Bean-town contingent - per usual - was well-represented as well at the NHS in Arizona, including businessman/philanthropist George Behrakis, publisher of www.TheHellenicVoice.com. As well, that paper's executive editor, John Baglaneas, has also been a fixture at NHS events. In between sitting poolside and sipping cocktails, Terry was able to actually learn a few things from various panelists, and scour around for additional Boston media “cousins”. Live from Boston Monday-Friday from 7-11 am (EST) and Sundays 7-Noon is Ted Demetriades, host of Grecian Echoes. The show is geared toward the Greek American community of New England and the format includes music, community events, dedications, news from Greece, and social announcement. The show has been airing for over 60 years and features Demetriades, son of the legendary host Orestes Demetriades, along with Peter Cakridas, Athanasios Vulgaropulos, and Fotios Stamos with his Kali Orexi program. Visit www.GrecianEchoes.com.
PALIN ROSEMONT APPEARANCE: In May, GMC "cousin" Amy Jacobson, WIND radio morning co-host, and co-host "Big John" Howell both moderated a panel discussion with former Alaska governor Sarah Palin after Palin's speech at the Rosemont Theater before an audience of thousands. John and Amy can be heard Monday through Friday 5-9 am, 560-AM on the dial.
KARIS IN CHICAGO, ON FOX NEWS: NY-based comedian Ellen Karis, famous of the “Greek Gods of Comedy” tour, was recently in Chicago to perform at a benefit for the American Hellenic Academy in Deerfield. She’s now a mainstay on various FOX News Channel political talk shows, including numerous appearances offering her unique and provocative conservative viewpoints on Sean Hannity’s show. Check out her offerings at www.EllenKaris.com.
GEORGIA BLOGS AT DAILYKOS.COM: In the interest of political balance, we go from conservative to liberal as we note that GMCer Georgia Logothetis, a DePaul University law grad, is one of the star political bloggers (Georgia10) at www.DailyKos.com, the chief liberal pundit site on the web. The site was founded by Markos Mulitsis Zuniga, who is part Greek. Ariana Huffington , yet another who's of Greek descent, started www.HuffingtonPost.com, a political site with a cultural and news bent.
KARA AT ZETA JONES BENEFIT: Our Chicago “cousin” Patricia Kara, “Deal or No Deal” spokes model, actress, and TV host, again handled red carpet hosting duties for the annual charity bash hosted by actress Catherine Zeta Jones on May 1, which brought together Broadway and Hollywood actors who performed musical numbers. The beneficiary was the Motion Picture and Television Fund. Actor Hugh Jackman was the overall evening host. Among luminaries present was FOX Filmed Entertainment CEO Jim Giannopulos, who was also in Chicago in June for a presentation at the inaugural National Innovation Conference. Patricia interviewed Jim on the red carpet, in addition to stars such as Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Shirley Maclaine, James Marsden, and more. As always, visit www.PatriciaKara.com.
CREST COMMERCIAL AND ABC PILOT: Chicago native Ashley Ilenfeld, daughter of our own close “cousin” Georgine Arvanites, has been living in New York and working as an Elite model. She also recently taped a commercial for Crest toothpaste, and filmed a pilot for an ABC network show. Details soon!
GMC SINGERS TO OPERA IDOLS: No, we don’t venture to take any credit, but we’re beaming nonetheless. The dynamic operatic singing sister duo of sopranos Lexy Prodromos and Stephany Prodromos, who entertained our audience at the December, 2009 GMC Christmas party, performed before a packed audience May 8 at Ravinia Festival in their annual fundraiser for Miseracordia research. The Prodromos sisters, who hail from Winnetka, IL and are 16 and 13 years of age respectively, are multi-talented artists, honor roll students at New Trier High School, and nationally-ranked tennis players as well. In early May, Lexy won the title of Junior Opera Idol 2010 by the North Shore Retirement Hotel and received a $500 voice training scholarship! The sisters get much of their talent from their father, Dr. Chadwick Prodromos, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, who once studied classical opera and was an aspiring bass baritone performer in his youth. The daughters perform regularly on Fridays at Monastero’s Restaurant in Chicago. In early May, they sang the National Anthem prior to the Chicago White Sox game at U.S. Cellular Field.
NEW FRAPPE OFFERING: Our “cousins” at Chicago-based www.DailyFrappe.com - Spiro Papadopoulos, Kyriakos Mellos, and Kostas Vassilopoulos - unveiled to us at our last function their new print publication IT’S ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚA TO ME, the first of several planned local Greek community guides and directories. Chicago is their first endeavor in print, with other cities to follow. Frappe aims to connect community members with local area organizations, institutions and service providers and provide business owners and leaders a premium vehicle for showcasing their businesses and organizations. The publication will be a reflection their unique brand of fun and creativity aimed at celebrating our great culture and heritage. Visit the website or email . Frappe, an online social networking community, has been growing steadily and recently signed on sponsors Grecian Delight and Mercedes Benz Chicagoland.
GREEK PARADE NOTES: GMC chief “cousins” George and Terry made a day of it at the Greek Independence Day Parade on Halsted Street in Greektown. The parade was co-chaired by our “cousins” Art Andros and Jim Ascot, with a marketing assist from Tom Tsipas, and the event also made the blog of Crains Chicago Business thanks to our “cousin” Shia Kapos at www.ChicagoBusiness.com. Ace photographer Sofia Spentzas (www.SpiralArtDesign.com) was workin’ it at the parade, capturing photos of, among others, the governor and mayor, with Terry riding on Jimmy Damon’s float, in addition to our “cousin” Nicole Klotz of Morgan Stanley-Smith Barney, who has a background in media. More than a few other GMCers were in the crowd, including filmmaker Valerie Gobos, and we saw you too Christina Karkavatsos, Nikki Hondropoulos, Tom Vabakos, Endy Zemenides, Alex Kountoures, and others. The crowd was better than expected in light of the cold and intermittent rain, which did cause a few float participant no-shows. TheNational Herald Greek newspaper put together a nice photo and audio montage of the parade which can be viewed at www.TheNationalHerald.com/video/243. Andy Diabilis, an author and veteran journalist who co-wrote "The Golden Greek" with Nick Tsiotis on the life and times of the late Harry Agannis, is the new editor of The National Herald.
MANTIS DOES ENTERTAINMENT, POLITICS: Our longtime “cousin” Nick Mantis, a corporate video producer, recently put together a political campaign commercial for a sheriff’s candidate in Northwest Indiana. He continues to also produce his own entertainment shows featuring area talent. Check out his offerings at www.NewMillProductions.com.
PLEASE PATRONIZE, THANKS! As always, we welcome our Chicago “cousins” to take in the diligent efforts of GMC co-founder Anna Davlantes (FOX32 Chicago nightly news), longtime close GMC “cousin” Kim Vatis (NBC5 morning news), John Kass (Chicago Tribune page 2 columnist), Dean Richards (WGN radio/TV film and stage critic), and longtime GMCer Andrea Darlas (WGN radio morning news), and a host of others who can be found on our website www.GreekMediaClub.com.
GREEKREPORTER.COM: We caught up with veteran writer/reporter Anastasios Papapostolou in mid-June while he was in Chicago for the NIC at Resolution Digital Studios (more GMC “cousins,” who’d a known?). Anastasios was having coffee at Athena in Greektown (where else?) along with GMC “cousin” Steven Livaditis of www.Portokalada.com and a few other friends. Anastasios is the proprietor of www.GreekReporter.com, and he has a version for every major region, including Hollywood. Nice site (both of them, that is), highly recommended. GMC “cousin” Maria Karamitsos, who’s Associate Editor of The Greek Star newspaper here (www.TheGreekStar.com), contributes Chicago commentary for Anastasios, who is always on the lookout for new writing talent that know the scene. Send him a note if you‘re interested.
HONORED FOR 30 YEARS WITH PAPER: Recently honored at a private dinner at Rosewood, in honor of her 30 years of service with The Greek Star in Chicago, was Maria Bappert. She continues in her role as the paper's administrative assistant. The dinner was hosted by the paper's `patriarchs', Frank Kamberos, John Marks, and Andy Athens, and was attended by editor Diane Adam along with associates Maria Karamitsos and Terry Poulos, among others.
MORE MEDIA: Singer Perry Danos, a Chicago-native jazz and Sinatra artist now living in Nashville, has been at the Orleans Casino in Vegas performing. Check out www.PerryDanos.com …Veteran radio traffic reporter Bill Souronis was one proud father after his daughter, Eleni, sang the National Anthem at a Spring, 2010 Boone Grove H.S. basketball game…Northwestern University journalism alum Aristea Brady, who has many real-life cousins here in Chicago, in early March signed on with KUSA9 TV news in Colorado, her native state. She had been working in Utah previous…GMCer Maria Constantinides is the new Greektown correspondent for www.Facebook.com/l/849ed;Examiner.com. It’s a group page that she administers…Our new “cousin” Bessie Tsionis visited us at the Hancock 95th in February and we wish to remind people to check out her site www.BessieTsionis.com/bio.html. The entertainment reporter covers Hollywood for CN100’s (Comcast) “Prime Time Chicago,” and is also a contributing reporter for NBC’s lifestyle show “LXTV”…Kathy Smith of the National Hellenic Museum is resigning to take a position as Programs Outreach and Development Coordinator for A Silver Lining Foundation, beginning July 1. Wish her good luck!
LAST GMC: At the April 15 GMC gathering at the Fairmont Hotel, we welcomed our longtime “cousin” Jane Monzures, fresh off being named host of the WGN TV Sunday show “Living Healthy Chicago” (11:30 am Sundays, www.LivingHealthyTV.com). Jane also appears on WCIU TV (“The U”). Other luminaries attending included CLTV reporter Randi Belisomo, www.IonTheScene.com celebrity blogger Irene Michaels, Chicago Tribune ace account exec Ana Keys (recently won a prestigious sales award!), health care exec host at www.InTimeTV.comDr. Kristine Mighion, and elder care show host Athena Verma, Art Andros (aka radio comedy DJ Joe Matsokapetros at www.freewebs.com/twinbayradio), bodybuilder-turned-author Lee Roupas, and Chicago’s own, singer Jimmy Damonwww.JimmyDamon.com).
Our newsletter returns with an event reminder email next week so get your stuff in now!
ALSO...Mark down THURSDAY, JUNE 10 (RSVP required)...Child's Play Touring Theater 30th anniversary gala, 5:30 pm to 10 pm at the St. Ignatius College Prep auditorium. This is our "cousin" June Podagrosi's theater troop. Honorary event chair is Sondra Healy, chair of Turtle Wax corporation. Emcee is Jane Monzures, host of "Living Healthy Chicago" on WGN TV. $50 general admission, VIP slots available. Visit www.CPTT.org or phone (773) 235-8911.
Catch more on Child's Play's event at our "cousin" Irene Michael's must-read celebrity and social webzine www.IonTheScene.com. Irene is a successful businesswoman and former actress who knows well the `who's who' of the Windy City.
Hope to see you at one or both of these fun events! Best wishes from your GMC co-directors...George Bliss (312) 217-0510 and Terry Poulos (708) 975-0571 .
Web guy Frank `e-Boy' Mahony (ask him about his new line of cigars)
THIS THURSDAY, April 15
The Greek Media Club meets THIS THURSDAY, April 15, 7-11 pm at the Fairmont Hotel, 200 North Columbus Drive (Millennium Park). RSVP not necessary. Cash bar. At intersection of Randolph & Columbus (near the 100-story Aon building). From Michigan Ave., proceed east on Randolph, take up-ramp to Columbus, turn left. On-premises valet ($9 with validation from Aria). Self-park in close vicinity. www.AriaChicago.com (312) 444-9494
ALSO...The annual Greek Independence Day Parade is Sunday, April 25, 2:30 pm start. Runs down Halsted Street in Greektown. The weather is cooperating so come join us for the fun! For more info www.Enosis.org.
AND...Pre-parade reception Friday, April 23 at the Greektown Crown Plaza, Metrocenter room, 733 W. Madison St. (at Halsted). 7:30 to 10:30 pm. Valet or self-park. Complimentary appetizers, cash bar. Open invite, no RSVP necessary. Sponsored by Enosis.
Come wash away the residual taste of the tax man (no offense to anyone named Tax)
Chicago’s Greek Media Club returns THURSDAY, APRIL 15 at the Fairmont Hotel, Club Aria, 7-11 pm. More details as you scroll down further.
Modern Asian-themed, sushi-style eatery, equal parts restaurant and bar, exquisite furnishings, special area reserved for our group, spirit and spirits, wit-i-full conversation, IRS horror stories, Easter recipe swapping, and a wee bit of networking among media professionals.
Scroll down also for our April newsletter. Teasers: Vatis “best” reporter award, WGN Jane, Amy J’s new WIND show, Greek Independence Day Parade, worldwide innovators hit Chi-Town, more!
Hope you all had a pleasant, blessed Easter! Christos Anesti from your GMC co-directors…
George Bliss (312) 217-0510 Terry Poulos (708) 975-0571
CLUB ARIA DIRECTIONS Located in the Fairmont Hotel, 200 North Columbus Drive (Millennium Park) At intersection of Randolph & Columbus (near the 100-story Aon building) From Michigan Ave., proceed east on Randolph, take up-ramp to Columbus, turn left On premises valet ($9 with validation from Aria); Self-park in close vicinity www.AriaChicago.com (312) 444-9494 ------------------------------------------------------
KIM NAMED “BEST REPORTER!” She’s one of our close GMC “cousins” so of course we’re elated to convey that Chicago NBC5's Kim Vatis in late March was named the “best TV reporter in Chicago and St. Louis” for 2009 by the Illinois Associated Press Broadcasters Association! Kim came to the station in 1997 and has been serving as a general assignment reporter ever since. She also fills in at the anchor desk and works on special projects for the 10 p.m. newscast. You can watch her every morning on “NBC5 Today.” She previously worked on-air in Orlando and Jacksonville, Florida; Bangor, Maine; and Gainsville, Florida, and she‘s received numerous Emmy nominations and led an investigation into the most severe abuses of disabled parking placards in the Chicago Loop that helped to fuel hefty new fines for offenders statewide. Additionally, Kim uncovered a glitch in the Illinois Tollway's I-PASS system that showed how some users had been overcharged, and led an investigation into "car cloning" and how the FBI fears it may be a tool for terrorists. Most recently, Kim reported from inside the `virtual’ world to show how gaming technology is having a real-life impact helping the city train for emergencies and how it’s fueling local businesses. She won an Emmy nomination for her reporting of the E2 Nightclub tragedy and the murders of the young Zion girls. In 2007, Past honors include a nomination for an Emmy for “Best Reporter in the Chicago/Midwest Chapter” of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. She graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in telecommunications and currently lives in downtown Chicago with her daughter. Kim volunteers regularly reading to students at Chicago and suburban public schools, and she‘s a regular at our functions. Please give Kim a hardy congrats when next your paths cross!
JANE HOSTS WGN SUNDAY SHOW: Multimedia personality Jane Monzures is back in Chicago full time and is now hosting “Living Healthy Chicago,” a weekly show airing at 11:30 am Sunday mornings on WGN Channel 9 in the Chicago area. The show also runs Saturdays at 6 and 10 am and 4 pm and Mondays at 10 am and 7 pm. Jane covers all-things health and fitness. In addition, catch her on WCIU-TV Thursday mornings hosting a restaurant segment on the show “You & Me in the Morning.” This Monday, April 12 at 6 am, Jane interviews Jimmy Bannos Jr. at his restaurant The Purple Pig, but the show generally airs Thursdays. Lastly, Jane will be the in-arena host for Chicago Sky WNBA basketball at Allstate Arena in Rosemont. She has some radio opportunities in the hopper so keep an eye out for more news from another of our original “cousins.“ As always, saunter on over to www.JaneMonzures.com.
AMY J GETS 2ND WIND: Our very own “cousin” Amy Jacobson in April began co-hosting the morning radio talk show on WIND AM-560 alongside “Big” John Howell. The two will tackle the political and cultural issues of the day from 5 am to 9 am Monday through Friday. Amy, a longtime NBC5 TV reporter, most recently was with WLS radio. She’s one of the brightest broadcasters in Chicago and offers a insight gleaned from a unique career disposition, and addresses the conservative perspective. Check in at www.560WIND.com.
DAMON AT SKOKIE THEATER APRIL 11: GMC "cousin" Jimmy Damon, who's performed numerous times for our patrons, headlines the Skokie Theater this Saturday, April 11. "From Beale Street to State Street" is the theme. Catch Jimmy's outstanding Sinatra rendition at 2 pm. For more, visit www.JimmyDamon.com or phone (847) 677-7761.
MARIO IN SKOKIE APRIL 18: We’re told tickets are nearly sold out. Sunday, April 18, 7 pm at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. That’s when and where operatic/pop crossover singer Mario Frangoulis, called “The Light of Greece,” will conduct a “Celebration of Greek Song & Poetry.” This is a one-time special concert for Mario as he doesn’t normally sing Greek. In fact, this is the world premiere of his Greek renditions. The Sony Classical recording artist performs alongside George Perris & The Greek Music Ensemble. It’s sure to be a night to remember. For more information, contact or phone (847) 826.0147.
BISHOP ADDRESSES SOCIAL MEDIA APRIL 24: Bishop Savas (Zembillas) of Troas, director of the Church, Society & Culture Office of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, visits Chicago for an address on “social media and the church,” discussing the topic “Threat or Opportunity: Orthodoxy and Social Media.” Takes place 2-4 pm at St. Andrews Church, 5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago. The event is free and open to the public but reservations are encouraged. Often referred to as the “modern Bishop,” Bishop Savas is charged with developing “programs and ministries that promote engagement by Orthodox Christians with contemporary societal and cultural realities,” said Archbishop Demetrios in announcing his appointment last year. Along with his pop-culture experience, Bishop Savas writes a blog called “Living in the LOGOsphere,” which he communicates through Facebook and Twitter. RSVP to or phone (773) 334-4515.
GREEK PARADE APRIL 25: Sunday Sunday, Halsted Street, Greektown. Be there. George, Terry and a host of GMCers will also be on hand, along with parade co-chairs Art Andros and Jim Ascot. Let’s all make a day of it as it looks like the weather will be cooperating, the event marks Greek Independence Day, and well…who doesn’t love a parade? This year’s theme is “Freedom” (what else?) and of course admission is FREE to the public! Visit www.ChicagoGreekParade.org for info on sponsorships, ad book, participation on a float, and general info. You can also contact George Karas (773) 775-4949 or Tom Tsipas (312) 933-1242. The parade is organized by Enosis, the Federation of Hellenic American Organizations www.enosis.org/parade.
TONY ORLANDO IN LATE APRIL: Scottsdale, AZ is the site of the 5th annual National Hellenic Society “Hellenic Classic & Symposium,” an event attracting many of the top Greek American business, academic, and philanthropic leaders in the nation. Culminating the weekend is a Saturday evening concert by famous singer Tony Orlando and his band. Jazz singer Ariana Savalas will also perform early in the weekend. Venue is the Phoenician Luxury Resort. Planned events include panel discussions on various policy matters, lunches and dinners, social and cocktail receptions, private and open special attractions, and a golf tournament. Get reservation info at www.HellenicSociety.org.
MEDIA HONORED MAY 1: Get your tickets now because it’s sure to be a big one on Saturday, May 1. Chicago Tribune columnist John Kass and legendary author Harry Mark Petrakis are two of the local media personalities to be honored at the annual Tri-State Ahepa banquet. Venue is the Westin O’Hare Hotel in Rosemont, IL. 6:30 reception, 7 pm dinner. Tickets are $100/per. For more info, phone Milwaukee-based event chair John Galanis (414) 271-5400 () or locally Cathy Ferguson (708) 749-4527 (). Many other luminaries to be honored. Visit www.Ahepa.com.
MARRIED : GMC “cousin” Cathy Demos, who works in national sales with ABC Family, was recently wed to Chris Kappos. She’s also working to promote the May 15 event benefiting the Greek American Nursing Home, featuring Antonis Remos.
REMOS CONCERT MAY 15: This one is the annual fundraising gala for the Greek American Nursing Home in Wheeling, IL, so help out if you can folks, and at the same time enjoy the great music of Antonis Remos, who headlines the concert to benefit the Home. Cathy is on the event committee and she’s trying to get the word out as we all might one day have someone we know benefit by this worthwhile cause. Visit www.GreekAmericanCare.org for details.
SUPPORT CHILD’S PLAY JUNE 10: Many of us will be on hand for the 30th anniversary celebration for our “cousin” June Podagrosi’s innovative Child’s Play Touring Theater. Honorary chairs for the Thursday, June 10 benefit are Turtle Wax, Inc. chair Sondra Healy and Chicago Corporation Counsel Mara Georges. Emcee is Jane Monzures, host of WGN TV's "Living Healthy Chicago.," Venue is St. Ignatius Prep in Chicago, just south of Greektown off Halsted Street. Tickets $50/per and up, with VIP accommodations available. Special attractions and offerings, including a sampling of the traveling troop’s work which involves taking scripts written by children and having them performed by professional actors. Learn more and view the troop’s expanded website offerings at www.CPTT.org. RSVP at (773) 253-8911 or .
INNOVATOR CONFERENCE JUNE 11-13: Our “cousin” Gregory Pappas is at it again. The publisher of Greek America magazine and founder of the Gabby Awards is organizing the National Innovation Conference (NIC) June 11-13 at Resolution Digital Studios, located on the west side near the United Center. Gregory is bringing to Chicago some major international mover-shakers in their respective fields. In addition to top corporate execs for Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Federal Express, and more, on the media end you can rub elbows and glean insight from FOX Filmed Entertainment CEO Jim Gianopulos, HBO Miniseries President Kary Antholis, celebrity TV chef Cat Cora, world renowned space pioneer Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, and more. Only 300 spots available. More presenters will be confirming shortly. The event will be open for public registration soon. Also part of the program is a “40 Under 40” awards reception honoring young Greek American leaders. Stay tuned to www.GreekAmerica.org.
TAKING KARA THE CURE: Our close “cousin” Patricia Kara was in town to visit family over the Easter holiday. In March, the actress, TV host and “Deal or No Deal” spokes model participated in the annual Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure” cancer benefit held at Dodger Stadium in LA. On Patricia’s agenda is red carpet hosting duties at the annual Catherine Zeta Jones benefit in late April. See www.PatriciaKara.com.
SAVALAS IN NY, SCOTTSDALE, ON CRIMINAL MINDS: We like to think our little GMC launched it all but of course we know otherwise. Ariana Savalas is doing it all by herself, and excelling! The jazz singer extraordinaire and daughter of the late, great actor Telly Savalas came to Chi-Town to perform at Davenport’s and she also headlined our last event at the Hancock 95th Signature Room. Then she went to New York to sing at the famous Metropolitan Room, and apparently Gotham loved her as much as we as she was invited back to participate in their Greek Independence Day parade! In between, Ariana played a role in an episode of the hit TV drama “Criminal Minds,” and she’ll be opening for Tony Orlando in Scottsdale at the annual National Hellenic Society social weekend. And if that all weren’t enough, she’ll be releasing her debut album in 2010! Take a peak at www.MySpace.com/ArianaSavalas.
LAST GMC EVENT: We had a blast in February at the 95th floor Signature Room in the Hancock Building. Ariana Savalas was our guest of honor and the stars came out to sample her performance. From FOX32 reporter/anchor Anna Davlantes and NBC5's Kim Vatis, to CLTV on-air personalities Monica Schneider and Garard McClendon, WLTH-AM radio host Theodore McClendon, Comcast SportsNet's Jen Patterson, former Lerner newspaper editor Charles Mouradites, Greek America publisher Gregory Pappas, Karen Demos of ABC Family, Bessie Tsionis of CN100 and NBC's LXTV, traffic reporter Jill Urchek, filmmaker Valerie Gobos, radio/TV personality Jane Monzures, The Greek Star'sMaria Karamitsos, Steve Livaditis of www.Portokalada.com; the Daily Frappe guys Spiro Papadopoulos, Kostas Vasilopoulos, and Kyriakos Mellos; CLTV producer Jerry Riles, 950-AM radio's John Papas, WIND radio's Dan Levy, and Kathleen Bliss of the Auditorium Theater. As well, we were visited by Illinois Treasurer and U.S. Senate Democrat nominee Alexi Giannoulias and Mariyanna Spyropoulos, candidate for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. Additional luminaries included Theodore G. Spyropoulos, president of SAE World Council of Hellenes Abroad USA, and Endy Zemenides, chairman of the Hellenic American Leadership Council and chief political director for Alexi for Illinois. Sports wise, the GMC was honored to receive Tommy Zbikowski, safety for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens and a radio host in Baltimore, and one-time super-agent George Andrews. Rising rockers Bobby and Dino Kourelis of www.Lovehammers.com also stopped in to rub elbows. Our own Jimmy Damon accompanied Ariana on a few numbers. Thanks everybody for helping show Ariana some good old fashion Chicago hospitality!
COMEDIAN HERE OCT. 10: He’s performed live on Showtime and at other major venues and he’ll be visiting Chicago for a Friday, Oct. 10 one-night-only performance to take place at the Hellenic American Academy in Deerfield, IL beginning at 7:30 pm. Angelo Tsarouchas is on the docket and laughs are on the horizon. Tsarouchas is fresh off a world tour and TV appearances on “Mad Men” and “Comics Without Borders.” For more info, visit www.HellenicAmericanAcademy.org.
NU GRAD ANCHORS IN DENVER: Northwestern U. grad Aristea Brady in early March signed on as a reporter/anchor for KUSA9 in Colorado. She was previously hosting a magazine-style morning show in Salt Lake City. Aristea, who has family in Chicago, is a Denver-area native so she’ll fit in nicely in her new position.
HOT OFF THE PRESS: Our “cousins” at the online social community and news site www.DailyFrappe.com in April debuted “It’s Ellinika to Me,” a print supplement to be distributed around the region that promotes area businesses. A second printing is in the pipeline and anyone wishing to advertise - whether business, community, or individual - can get more info at www.dailyfrappe.com/chicago. Other city directories across the nation planned.
MAROULIS TO CHICAGO? The hit, Tony-award winning musical stage play “Rock of Ages,” starring former “American Idol” contestant Constantine Maroulis, was reported to be headed to Chicago. Which means, Maroulis may be pulling up stakes here for a spell as well. We’ll keep tabs so you don’t have to. The play has received critical and box office success, with Maroulis playing an 80’s `hair band” lead singer. It’s full of nostalgia and is said to be loads of fun.
ABC PILOT: Chicago-area native Ashley Ilenfield, daughter of our “cousin” Georgine Arvanites, is an elite model in NY who’s about to tape a pilot for an ABC show. More as it arrives. Ashley also recently shot a Crest toothpaste commercial.
ALBUM RELEASE PARTY: Taking a break from her continuing education is Maria Skoulidas, who goes by the stage name Maria Lidas when singing. She’s prepping for her early May album release party, a debut of her first-ever CD. Her genre is pop/rock/R&B. Maria writes much of her own material. We’ll have more info on the CD party soon. Meantime, check out her stuff at www.MySpace.com/SingMariaLidas.
REAL TROOPER: GMC “cousin” Sharon Tyk, a 20-year AT&T exec who‘s now #2 at the Illinois USO, in February hosted some friends who are military supporters and war history buffs for an advance screening of the HBO blockbuster miniseries “The Pacific,” a WWII feature exec produced by Steven Speilberg and Tom Hanks. The event was sponsored by Comcast and was held at the Museum of Contemporary Art. We learned that author George Pelecanos is involved with the project and that one of the central characters becomes attached to a Greek family in Australia and this somehow is interwoven in episode 3. Sharon has done much work with veterans and GI's over the years, including coordinating concerts with actor Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band on numerous occasions.
TRASHY BLOG: Our “cousin” Bill Kirkos, producer of a film on America’s trash, recently started a blog called www.Trashedtheblog.com where he chronicles all-things-garbage and environmental-related issues in general. Also check out his film offerings at www.TrashedTheMovie.com and video business at www.OxiProductions.com.
EARTHY BLOG: The environment sure is a big topic going forward, regardless of political affiliation. So add another to the list, this one by our “cousin” John Vlahakis, who also runs one of the nation’s premiere home products businesses Earth Friendly Products. Check out John’s take on the environment and the planet at www.EarthyReport.com and also visit www.Ecos.com.
TRAVEL BLOG: Our “cousin” in the Greek islands, author Barbara Bonfigli, is now blogging for the tour travel site www.AustinLehman.com, the #1 tour operator in the world. Barb visited us last Summer on a tour for her debut novel “Café Tempest: Adventures on a Small Greek Island.” Also check out www.BarbaraBonfigli.com.
GMC SINGERS MUSIC VIDEO: Sisters Lexy and Stephany Prodromos wowed the crowd at our December 2009 Christmas party and they later appeared on CLTV for an interview. The two are rising opera-style singers and recently meshed their love of the rock band Styx with their unique brand of singing for this entertaining music video set to the tune “Come Sail Away” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMpfvNMeZjQ. Enjoy!
ACTOR PLAYS TRUMPET, PIANO: Gotta give kudos to our Chicago-area native-turned-LA ”cousin” Adam Kalesperis. We dig his IMDb resume: Roles in “The Dark Knight,” “Women’s Murder Club,” and “ER,” among others. But what really stands out is Adam is a multitalented artist who also plays the trumpet and piano. The guy’s a wunderkind! By the way, his proud mom is our very own GMC “cousin” Katherine Kalesperis Smith of the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago.
THE GREEK STORK: Do stork’s lay Easter eggs? Actually, the stork arrived well before Easter, on Nov. 9 to be specific. That‘s when former Chicago Tribune writer and editor Valerie Costsales had her first child! Valerie has visited us in the past but she left for NY to join the NY Times travel section as a feature writer. She’s now “hibernating” at home with young Daniel and loving every minute of it!
“THE VOICE” TURNS 30! He’s got one of the most recognizable and remarkable baritone vocals of any young radio announcer we’ve heard to date. Yes, our “cousin” Dan Levy turns 30 this Friday, April 9 and he’ll be hosted at a reception on the west side, near his favorite venue, the United Center. Dan is an up-and-coming sports, arena, and general radio program voice and you’ll be hearing more of his deep, bass tones in the years to come. Check him out on WIND radio 560-AM, among others. Howz bouts opera, Dan?
“COUSIN” GEORGE RADIO HOUR: Music is in his and his family’s blood, and now it’s on George Bliss’ Internet radio show. George, who’s also GMC co-director, offers his blend of Sinatra, classical-related music, and more at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/george-bliss-radio. You might need to make some adjustments to your settings so if you like, George would be pleased to assist you if you email him at .
ANOTHER PROUD PA: Our “cousin” Bill Sourounis, a veteran radio traffic reporter who also appears occasionally on the FOX32 morning news, was beaming after his dauther Eleni Sourounis sang the National Anthem at a recent Boone Grove High School basketball game.
MARINA ON TRAVEL CHANNEL: Everywhere we look we see Marina Lambropoulos. She’s one of the most ubiquitous social circuit travelers we know. So it wasn’t a huge surprise when she popped up on the Travel Channel in March for an episode of “Food Wars” that focused on Chicago’s famous Al’s Beef and Mr. Beef. Marina, a veteran PR associate, contributes radio reports on the local restaurant scene on occasion, but for this one she served as a “rep” for Al’s Beef for the cameras.
MORE MEDIA: Reporter Angie Leventis Lourgos recently began contributing articles for the Chicago Tribune…Connie Pappas Hillman is in town this weekend for the NHIBT hoops tourney's 80th anniversary at Fenwick High School in Oak Park. She's Elton John's North American Tour manager and she's also married to Rock n' Roll Hall of Famer Chris Hillman, founder of the famous band The Byrds...Word is Chicago native Billy Zane is going to be a regular on the new ABC legal drama “The Deep End.” Anything to get the Zanes closer to Chicago is all good by us. Including…Billy’s little sis Lisa Zane, a jazz singer now residing in LA, has a revamped website www.LisaZane.com. Check it out…GMC “cousin” John Papas, who once worked for Ted Turner, is now the marketing rep at jazz radio’s www.Avenue950.com, found on the dial at 950-AM. In February, the station interviewed Ariana Savalas about her gig at Davenport’s…Interviewing Ariana for a feature article in The Greek Star was our own Maria Karamitsos. Check out www.TheGreekStar.com... Mary Laina, who visited our Christmas party in December and works closely with the Greeks of Hollywood, is seeking new sponsorships and branding ops for her unique site www.NotforGreekGirlsOnly.com ...Don't forget, 2011 GABBY Awards at Ellis Island in NY. www.GabbyAwards
