THIS THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2009…The Greek Media Club returns for Halloween scarefest…No costume required but they sure do spice things up…We'll have a special guest as always (a “Hollywood” angle, or the snake-haired Medusa).
DETAILS:The Parthenon Restaurant (314 S. Halsted, ½ block south of Jackson) in Greektown. 7:30-11:00 pm in the Parthenon’s private banquet room `Bouzouki Lounge‘ (enter Parthenon, turn right, pass the bar, enter first doorway; don't scare the ghosts). www.TheParthenon.com. (312) 726-2407. No entry fee, cash bar, RSVP not necessary. On-premises valet with self-park very close to restaurant.
* 6:00 pm pre-event at the National Hellenic Museum (4th floor of Greek Islands building at the corner of Halsted & Adams). The Parthenon is approximately 1 block south of the museum. Many of us will attend to watch our GMC “cousin” Andrea Darlas, WGN radio/TV reporter, moderate a book discussion for author Barbara Bonfigli’s hot new tome “Café Tempest,” which recently garnered a great review by the major Greek publication Athens Plus! Must RSVP for museum event. Modest entry fee. Phone (312) 655-1234 or visit www.NationalHellenicMuseum.org.
See you Thursday “cousins”!!!
GMC CO-DIRECTORS
George Bliss (312) 217-0510 Terry Poulos (708) 975-0571
ROSATI MC’S OCT. 18 MUSEUM GALA: NBC5 Chicago lead anchor Allison Rosati, a prominent Philhellene, will emcee this weekend’s (Sunday, October 18) annual fundraiser gala for the National Hellenic Museum at an event held at Chicago’s Ritz Carlton Hotel, 180 E. Pearson. “Building a Legacy” is the event title and a who’s who of the local Greek American community will be on hand as the museum gears up for the historic groundbreaking of a brand new facility located at Halsted and Van Buren Streets in Greektown Chicago! Reception 5:30 pm, dinner and dancing 6:30, silent auction/raffle. Black tie preferred. Honored guests Andrew A. Athens and Frank S. Kamberos. Solo singing performance by Robin Simone. For tickets phone (312) 655-1234 or visit www.NationalHellenicMuseum.org.
OCT. 17 GARY SINISE USO EVENT: Our GMC “cousin” Sharon Tyke (newly installed director of programs for the Illinois USO!) is working closely with CSI:NY actor Gary Sinise and his Lt. Dan Band for their Oct. 17 benefit concert for the organization, which assists U.S. military servicemen. The event takes place at Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom. Visit www.USO.org/Illinois.
REEVE FOUNDATION: In town…The 2nd annual gala event for the Christopher ("Superman" films) and Dane Reeve Foundation is Oct. 15 at the House of Blues in Chicago and features headliner Caroline Rhea, a popular talk show host and comedian who is married to Costaki Economopoulos.
D.C. GATHERING OF NATIONWIDE YOUTH NOV. 5-9: Our Washington-area “cousins” at www.DCGreeks.com have put together an impressive program for November 5-9 that is not one to miss. Their “Pan-Hellenism Weekend” is a “four-day destination Greek social weekend across the country…(an) event that will appeal to Greek American young adults and Philhellenes over 18 years of age both locally and across the country.” For direct registration www.DCGreeks.com/PanHellenismWeekend.
OUR LAST EVENT: We were honored to receive so many media luminaries at our last event, held two months back at the Park Hyatt Hotel. “Cousins” George and Terry welcomed first-time GMC attendees: Reporter Ted Gregory of the Chicago Tribune (recent winner of the prestigious Pulitzer Prize!); Brenda Sexton, the former and longtime chief of the Illinois Film Office; businesswoman/social blogger Irene Michaels (www.IonTheScene.com); CBS College Sports analyst and Prep Football Report publisher Tom Lemming; former Chicago Bears player Chris Martin, now a Big 10 Network analyst; sportscaster Dyrol Joiner; longtime Tribune photographer John Kontantaras; and A. Steven Betzelos, past Supreme Order of Ahepa president and former columnist for The Greek Star and contributor to Hellenic Review TV in Chicago. As well, we were entertained by our close GMC “cousins” Kim Vatis of Chicago NBC5 and Amy Jacobson of WLS AM-890, and Andrea Dres came beaming after news of her promotion at Harpo Studios! We were also paid a visit by Dan Proft, a conservative activist and radio commentator who’s running in the GOP primary (www.Proft2010.com) for Illinois governor.
VARIETY SHOW OCT. 23: The zany comedic ensemble "More Stuffed Tomatoes," directed by Tom Akouris, is back for the second year and runs Friday, October 23, 8:00 pm, at the St. John’s church stage/gymnasium in Des Plaines, IL.
CBS NETWORK VET HERE: Veteran CBS network reporter John Metaxas was also in town the weekend of our last event. We connected with him via telephone but he was unavailable the night of our event. John’s blog is a must-read for anyone interested in issues relevant to Greeks in general www.JohnMetaxas.com. His network, WCBS-TV Channel 2 in New York, has taken to online niche programming and the Greek news blog is one of their latest efforts. He also anchors the flagship station on Sundays.
KASS TAKES ON TRAFFIC SIGNAL: From our “cousin” John Kass, page 2 columnist at the Chicago Tribune. This is a hilarious tongue-in-cheek mini-video about a term familiar to Greeks called the “Moutza.” This is when you hold your hand out as if to say “halt,“ but in the Greek context it has a vulgar connotation meaning something to the effect of “go to xxxx.“ John hosts this funny video and interviews famous Billy Goat owner Sam Sianis and crew about what should be done about this ubiquitous traffic signal that is offensive to multitudes of Greeks worldwide (haha). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atAzmrrl-B8
KARA MOVING IN CHICAGO: Thought that would get your attention. Chicago native-turned-LA actress/TV host Patricia Kara, also briefcase spokes model on NBC’s hit game show “Deal or No Deal,” has been in Chicago so much this summer that let’s just say we’re her second home. First, she emceed Moda Fashion Gazette’s 1-year anniversary gala at Resolution Digital Studios and simultaneously graced our event at the Peninsula Hotel. She also visited during the Greektown Fest on Halsted and just this last weekend hosted the 1st ever Greek Folk Dance & Choral Competition, held at the Westin Hotel in Rosemont in conjunction with the Elli Koukinou concert. DJ John Grammatis performed at the dance competition. On November 20, Trish is back again at Chicago’s Union League Club for the annual Pan Hellenic Scholarship Foundation awards gala. Check out www.PanHellenicScholarships.org. That’s only the Greek stuff. Patricia was recently featured in country music star Trace Adkins’ new music video “Marry for Money,” and she and her “Deal” model colleagues took first place in the Game Show Network’s awards show for “favorite TV show models” at a ceremony hosted by “Deal” host Howie Mandel. At the after-party, Patricia and Howie bumped into Tony Orlando, famous recording artist (“Tie a Yellow Ribbon”) who also happens to be both part Greek and Puerto Rican. As always, check out “Trish the Dish” at www.PatriciaKara.com . CONTESTANT #9: Add “game show contestant“ to Patricia (model #9) Kara‘s growing list of credits! She played a special celebrity round of the new game show “Catch 21” and won $2500 for her designated charity www.TrinityChildrensFoundation.org. Patricia beat out two other "Deal" models on the show hosted by Alfonso Ribiero (Carlton from "Fresh Prince of Bel Air"). Patricia's episode will air this November on the Game Show Network.
NEGOVAN ADDRESSES WOMEN BIZ OWNERS: Michigan Avenue magazine editor-in-chief Susanna Negovan is slated to headline the annual holiday gala for the National Association of Women Business Owners. The Dec. 3 fundraiser is at the Allerton Hotel in Chicago. Negovan will address this group of accomplished women on her efforts at running a major magazine and her own incorporation of her personal brand. BTW, Susanna reports that her hubby, WGN TV anchor Tom Negovan, is doing quite well following a recent accident. Visit www.NAWBOChicago.org. Our GMC “cousin” Anastasia Athans-Stothoff, owner at www.InsightDesignSolutions.com, serves on the board of NAWBO’s Chicago chapter.
DAVLANTES ON-AIR THIS NOVEMBER?: Broadcast journalist Anna Davlantes, our GMC co-founder who this summer opted to not re-sign with NBC5 Chicago after serving 9 years as a reporter and anchor, is rumored to be making a career announcement in November. So wrote Davlantes herself on a recent facebook post. Meanwhile, she’s in Athens and Santorini this month for primetime downtime. Some daily print scribes speculated she's headed to either FOX or CBS2, but she can’t negotiate with any competitors until her current contract expires. Hence, a November announcement may be forthcoming. In early October, Anna and her former “bookend” reporter at NBC5, Amy Jacobson, participated in the annual Newsapallooza charity benefit hosted by WLS radio host Roe Conn and comedian Richard Marx. Check out the photos here www.wlsam.com/Article.asp?id=1453788&spid=18042.
DRES PROMOTED AT HARPO: Harpo Studios, the signature studio of Oprah Winfrey that‘s located just west of Greektown Chicago (Opa Oprah!), recently promoted researcher Andrea Dres, yet another GMC “cousin,” to the position of production assistant! Andrea, one of our young, bright “future stars,“ as we like to say, began her new responsibilities late this summer…Another “future star” is Anthe Mitrakos, who recently completed an internship at CBS2 Chicago. Anthe, who’s demeanor and writing skills are well beyond her years, has previously contributed to Greek America magazine, among others, and is an erudite observer of both news and haute culture. Mainstream media outlets would be wise to snap her off the job market as we firmly believe she will before long join the likes of our Andrea and a few of our other bright young GMCers as a media mover-shaker!
“BIRDS” FOUNDER AT ST. D’S EVENT: The Byrds (“Mr. Tamberine Man,“ “Eight Miles High,“ etc.) pop rock band founder Chris Hillman, a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame who is also married to our California “cousin” Connie Pappas Hillman, is a proud Philhellene and often partakes in events that celebrate Eastern Christianity and Orthodoxy. His Byrds were one of the hottest bands in America during the 60’s and early 70’s and recorded chart-toppers at a dizzying pace. In late August, he was a presenter at the Metropolis of San Francisco program “Christian Themes in Pop Media,” a spiritual renewal retreat that explored Christian themes in both popular music and movies from American culture. The event was hosted by St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Camarillo, CA. A few of us met up with Connie this summer in Chicago as she was here doing advance work for another Rock & Roll hall of famer, the famous Elton John. Connie is Elton’s North American Touring Coordinator and has been with him for the greater part of the past three decades.
GEORGIE PORGIE’S NEW VID: Chicago singer George Andros (AKA the recording artist known as Georgie Porgie) has a new video out for his single “New Day” that is both a catchy tune and contains an inspirational message. Check it out www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHogpYKazMs. We think you’ll like it. On the Musicplant Records label. Andros’ brother is City of Chicago architect Art Andros (AKA outlandish online radio comedian Joe Matsokapetros, a GMC “cousin“ and regular at our events (BTW, don't either one of these guys use their regular names anymore?).
TELIA LAUNCHED: The timing couldn’t be more “perfect” for our “cousin” Peter Quintas to launch Telia Solutions. His new firm offers custom software engineering, website design/development, social networking aps, e-Commerce aps, internet marketing, print design, video production, and more. The word “telia” in Greek means “perfect.” Visit www.TeliaSolutions.com. Peter and Steve Livaditis (“cousin Livo”) are co-founders of www.Portokalada.com, the online social community for Greeks.
MUST-ATTEND LOYOLA CLASS: City News Bureau legend Paul Zimbrakos is now teaching a class on the now shuttered journalist training ground at Loyola University Chicago. Highly-recommended course for any would-be journalist. Zimbrakos has helped train many of the finest reporters and top names in Chicago journalism both past and present.
PUBLISHER WELCOMES PRIME MINISTER: Washington Monthly magazine publisher Markos Kounalakis moderated a Sept. 30 event in San Francisco that featured the former Norwegian Prime Minister as the guest of honor. Visit www.WashingtonMonthly.com. The mag also recently published their annual college ranking guide.
DEAN’S LIST: WGN radio/TV film and stage critic Dean Richards emceed the recent annual gala fundraiser “Dance for Life,“ benefiting various AIDS charities. On-air, recent Richards interviews include actors Vince Vaughn and Peter Billingsley. View “The Dean’s List” at http://www.wgntv.com/news/deanslist/.
WAR AGAINST THE WEEK: This hot-titled film, produced by cross-country “cousin” Peter Demas, premieres in Manhatten Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Anthology Film Archives. It won “Best Documentary” at the Delray Beach Film Fest in California. www.WarAgainstTheWeakMovie.com. “War’ is about a pre-Nazi “racial purification plan in the United States,” and probes the “sinister history of eugenics.” Explosive commentary, you can be sure.
BIG NEWS COMING AT WOODFIELD? Our “cousins” at Schaumburg, IL based www.WoodfieldMedia.com, George Vroustouris and Alex Vroustouris, are soon to put the finishing touches on the website of an innovative new Chicago-area startup. Look for news soon! Woodfield Media was listed by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of the area’s top up-and-coming web programmers and online marketing firms. Another of our “cousins,” Anastasia Athans-Stothoff of www.InsightDesignSolutions.com (profiled by the Chicago Tribune two years back), designed the logo for this exciting new education, sports, and financial services firm, which was founded by one of our really, really close GMC “cousins.” Some of you have already guessed his name, we’re sure.
HOLLYWOOD GREEKS: Recently visiting the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago was Mary Laina, one of the principals behind the popular www.HollywoodGreeks.com. We’re working with Mary on a possible joint holiday event with the GMC in early December. Another LA group has some cool pics up of Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson dancing up a storm at the annual LA Greekfest. www.hollywood.greekreporter.com.
DUKAKIS NARRATES DOC: Award-winning actor Olympia Dukakis narrates the new film “The Promise of Tomorrow - The First Generation.” The documentary on Greek immigration will be screened Nov. 12 at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences in Beverly Hills, CA at an event emceed by actor John Aniston. For tickets, go to www.ItsMySeat.com, keyword: Promise of Tomorrow. Or contact Shelly Papadopoulos (310) 528-8214 or email . Our LA-based “cousin” Daphne Valentina is on the event committee and brought this to our attention.
FRAPPE PROFILED IN ATHENS PLUS: The Chicago-based news/community website www.DailyFrappe.com was recently featured in an interview with the widely-distributed English weekly Athens Plus. Frappe is run by Spiro Papadopoulos, Kyriakos Mellos, and Kostas Vasilopoulos. It’s designed for Greeks of the Diaspora to connect with the news, events and happenings in Greece. Click here to read the interview.
DO YOU WANNA READ? The producer/director behind “Do You Wanna Dance,” Robert Kranz, is back with another project, this time a book “Falling in Love with Sophia” that is all goes well he plans to turn into a movie. “Dance,” many of you may recall, was a depiction of the life and career of Fr. Chris Kerhules of Chicago, a film about redemption and finding joy. Kranz’s production company, Ellinas Multimedia, is about to release “Sophia” any week now. He’s gotten tremendous feedback thus far! Visit www.EllinasMultimedia.com.
FITNESS BOOK RELEASED: Our very own “Big” Lee Roupas recently held two launch parties for the release of his first book, “Living Proof: A Fitness Journey.” Roupas, a competitive bodybuilder who is a staunch advocate of natural fitness, also has an inspirational and spiritual angle in his tome. He’s a very interesting character who wears many hats. He’s a personal trainer, works full-time for the State of Illinois in the Liquor Control Commission devising public service campaigns to discourage underage drinking and drinking and driving, and he was also on the cheer squad at his alma mater, Michigan State University. Check out www.LeeRoupas.com.
LOUKAS CHICAGO-DENVER-SALT LAKE CONNECT: Our various Loukas family “cousins” from Chicago are spread far and wide across this great land. Their family has a ranch outside the Denver metropolitan area (condolences on the recent passing of family matriarch Georgia Loukas, BTW). In Chicago, GMCer Alexandra Loukas, who works in real estate, has been a frequent contributor to various Greek publications as a writer. Her brother, Dino Loukas, is a former pro rodeo cowboy who’s in the midst of writing a book about his experiences, which include defying death (and doctors’ prognosis) after a horrific fall from his horse. He’s back on track these days, although retired from competition. The Loukas‘ have a real-life cousin, Aristea Brady, who‘s a reporter and morning host at the ABC affiliate KTVX Salt Lake City, UT. That‘s the media side of the family. In Meeker, CO, the family has a close business association with the Theos family, who work with the Loukas/Kourlis families to deliver locally-grown products to area Whole Foods stores. Whole Foods recently produced a video depicting the Theos patriarch’s testimony about Whole Foods products and the value of locally-grown food. Here‘s the video www.youtube.com/watch?v=-y3TvMvW-hA.
JOINS BOARD OF CHILD’S PLAY: GMC co-founder Terry Poulos in October joined the Advisory Board of the unique Child’s Play Touring Theater in Chicago www.CPTT.org, a not-for-profit co-founded by our “cousin” June Podagrossi that brings kids’ scripts to life when pro actors perform them live at educational institutions. Terry, an 11-year veteran of the NFL’s “Instant Replay” program (and you thought he only worked “Greek stuff“), has been involved in education issues for the past five years with the not-for-profit www.SportsIsEducation.com, a foundation he started with another of our “cousins,” attorney/author Eldon Ham, SIE‘s chairman. As for Child’s Play, check out their W.O.W. (Writing Our World) program, a promising new multi-cultural initiative linking domestic and foreign students via online exchange. The group also offers acting and theater classes to teens age 13-18 at their west Armitage studios.
ODE TO ANTIGONE: GMC co-founder George Bliss put together a moving tribute to our recently-deceased “cousin” Antigone Lambros, one of the matriarchs of Greek journalism nationwide with her staple radio programs. Check out George’s slide presentation at www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvoD1_HNp48. Also, Antigone’s obit, which appeared in The Greek Star in Chicago and The National Herald in New York, can be found at this link www.ahepa.org/uploads/pdf/national_herald.pdf. It was written by our “cousin” Maria Karamitsos, associate editor at www.TheGreekStar.com.
2010 OLYMPIC HOPEFUL TAKES MIC: Recent Libertyville High School grad Maria Papasotiriou, yes folks yet one more of our many, many “cousins,” is Greece’s best hope for medaling in figure skating at the 2010 Winter Games in Canada. She recently hosted her annual skating exhibition with celebrity skaters on the national circuit to help raise funds for Pancreatic cancer research. Watch Maria on air as she interviews the other skaters involved with the show. The gal has presence and pinache! www.skatingcircle.com/channels/23/series/15/videos/1637.
TREASURER PAPPAS: Correction from last newsletter: We kindly restore Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas to her proper title. We wrote “commissioner“ in our last missive, which of course was her former elected office but not present. George, Terry and a few others caught up with Treasurer Pappas this summer at Christie Hefner‘s book discussion for Barb Bonfigli‘s “Café Tempest.“
THE ART OF THE TREASURER: On the subject of the Cook treasurer, recently on display at Pappas’ downtown office were the paintings of Ellen Lustig, a “cousin” who lives in Greektown but has yet to make one of our events (even though she keeps promising ;) Ellen also does fantastic digital caricatures, party caricatures, murals, and other commercial work. Check out her cool stuff at www.Artips.com.
KIKI’S KREW: WJJG AM-1530 radio personality Kiki Vale was recently profiled in The National Herald. She was excited as well that her annual “Kiki’s Krew” walk/run was able to raise more than $15,000 for diabetes research! For pics and other fun stuff, visit www.KikiVale.com.
TRUNCALI DOES BULLS PRE-GAME: He’s a GMC favorite and has performed for us numerous times. Celebrity vocal impressionist/singer John Truncali, who is half-Greek and half-Italiano, is back again this season performing pre-game entertainment at the United Center prior to Chicago Bulls home games. John is most notable for his Tom Jones impersonation, although we love his Tony Bennett equally. Check out his regular slate at www.JohnTruncali.com.
DAMON, DANOS DO SINATRA: We’ve got the gamut covered here at the GMC. Our very own Jimmy Damon, who’s also performed live for us numerous times, is the only singer who was authorized by Frank Sinatra himself to perform Sinatra live during Sinatra‘s illustrious life and career. Catch Jimmy’s stuff at www.JimmyDamon.com (Footnote: Who was the REAL inspiration for Bill Murrary's famous nightclub singing act on SNL? Hmmm, could it be our Jimmy?). In Nashville, TN, we’ve got a “cousin,” Perry Danos, who’s another Sinatra whiz and also has his own jazz bent that’s wowing audiences across the nation. Danos has a new album out and he tours Las Vegas Oct. 19-20. He also played Chicago this summer and sang the National Anthem at a Chicago White Sox game during “Greek Night” at U.S. Cellular Field. Visit www.PerryDanos.com.
ROCKERS FLYING HIGH: Our “cousin,” Tinley Park’s Dimitri Kontos, bass guitarist and leader of the progressive rock band the Flying Hamsters of Doom, tells us the band changed their name to F.H.O.D. (brevity, we believe). They recently shot a music video for their song “Unashamed,” just released, and their working on another album. Check out www.FHODband.com.
ANISTON-NARRATED BOOK RELEASED: Actor Jennifer Aniston narrates the latest edition of the popular Loukoumi children’s book line titled “Loukoumi’s Gift,” being released in time for National Make a Difference Day. The author is Nicholas Katsoris, who’s first book “Loukoumi’s Good Deeds” was a hit across the nation with its morality lessons for youth. Nick informs us that he and his publisher aim to get over 300 schools and 10,000 kids to do a good deed to celebrate the day! Visit www.Loukoumi.com.
CAL AUTHOR’S YOUTUBE VIDEO: Rising author Patricia Volonakis Davis, a California “cousin“ and author of “Harlot’s Sauce: A Memoir of Food, Family, Love, Loss, and Greece,” has her book’s first podcast and you tube video up and running. Go to www.PatriciaDavis.com for more info.
LOCAL TOURISTS: Reporter Kathy Catrambone covers the Greektown area for the Emmy-winning website www.TheLocalTourist.com, founded by our “cousin” Theresa Carter. Kathy is seeking info for local events. Andy Angelos is another writer for the website.
DAILY DOSE OF DALEY: University of Illinois at Chicago grad journalism student Bill Vassilakis is now contributing to the website www.DailyDaley.com, a spoof about Chicago’s Mayor Richard M. Daley.
COMIC BOOK COVER: Artist J. Anthony Kosar (a GMCer, of course) announced his variant cover for the comic book “Buckaroo Bonzai: Hardest of the Hard (1 of 2) is now out on store shelves. Check your local comic book store. Anthony graduated at the top of his class at the American Academy of Art in Chicago and he‘s a real whiz-kid!
BOSTON SPORTS: Out in Boston, our “cousin” Teddy Panos directs and hosts sports talk on WCAP 980-AM, reports for the Lowell Sun newspaper, and is also general manager at his family’s Athenian Corner Restaurant. A busy guy…Another of our Boston “cousins,” Nick Tsiotis, was interviewed by the major Greek publication TA NEA for an article on the late, great two-sport pro athlete Harry Agganis. The article appeared Oct. 3. Tsiotis is co-author of the book “The Golden Greek,” a biography of a man who is perhaps the greatest-ever Greek American pro sports star (Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians player!). Tsiotis is also the sports columnist at www.TheHellenicVoice.com, a Boston weekly that is one of the most widely-read Greek newspapers in America.
AHEPA “GREEK OF THE WEEK”: The Supreme Ahepa recently honored journalist Steve Chiotakis as their “Greek of the Week.” He recently departed WBHM in Birmingham, AL to take a position with American Public Media’s “Marketplace Morning Report,” a nationally-syndicated radio show providing hourly economic updates to 350 stations nationwide. Visit www.Ahepa.org.
NEW MAGAZINE ISSUES OUT: The fall editions of the various Greek magazines just hit news stands! Check 'em out...Greek America magazine's "Gabby Awards Special Issue." Visit www.GreekAmerica.net ...Greek Circle magazine's "An Ode to Women." Visit www.GreekCircle.com ...Odyssey magazine's "Screening Green" and "Women in Power." Visit www.Odyssey.gr.
No Chicago Olympics. Hmm. Undaunted, the Greek Media Clubreturns THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2009 to Greek Town to discuss, ruminate, gossip, finger-point, second-guess and more. Oh, and share a few non-Olympic laughs too.
Join this ever-expanding group of creative communicative types as we gather in the PARTHENON'S private backroom BOUZOUKI LOUNGE...7:30 PM until 11 PM. No entry fee, RSVP not necessary, cash bar. The turnout of media luminaries at recent GMC functions has been phenomenal. Full scoop arrives in one week in the form of a Reminder email and full newsletter. Send items now to George and Terry so we can promo your endeavors!
PRE-EVENT AT MUSEUM...At a separate Oct. 15 event which begins at 5:30 PM, many of us will be at the National Hellenic Museum (a few short steps from the Parthenon) for a book discussion/Q&A moderated by our 'cousin' Andrea Darlas, WGN radio/TV reporter. After, we'll walk over to the Parthenon. "Cafe Tempest" is the book's title and the event is open to the public. Entry fee for book event, RSVP requested. Go to www.HellenicMuseum.org for RSVP info and further details. Our 'cousin' Barbara Bonfigli's fictional memoir is a captivating tale of a woman's life on a majestic Greek island and her pursuits and loves. Barbara and "Cafe Tempest" were honored to be feted this Summer at the private residence of Playboy magazine immediate past CEO Christie Hefner and the tome has also received good early reviews.
Hope to see you October 15. Your GMC co-directors...
WHEN/WHERE: This Thursday, July 30from 6-11 PM. The Park Hyatt Hotel‘s 7th floor rooftop garden Club Nomi, 800 North Michigan Avenue. Enter at northeast corner of Chicago Avenue and Rush Street. Valet parking on premises, self-park close by.
WHO/WHAT: `Media’ artisans - assortment of creative communicative types and their kind guests - gather to have fun, break bread, wet the pallet with a glass or more, participate in low-key social networking, take in a few celebrity appearances, be inspired by the grandiose scenery, per chance witness a wee bit of entertainment, and muddle through a few hopefully expedited moments of introductions and select announcements, including the unveiling of our very own wine label.. Yes, we've got GMC-Vino! Aside from all that, it’s cash bar, no cover, RSVP not required. All three of our co-founders will be present this time, including NBC 5 anchor/reporter Anna Davlantes, fresh off her Gabby Awards emcee duties. We're expecting some special guests new to our club as well - perhaps even national network broadcast journalist John Metaxas (Thursday schedule pending), who’s in town from New York this week. Immediate past Illinois Film Office chief Brenda Sexton will join us early on. More surprises still...
ABOUT THE PARK HYATT: There were some logistical challenges with the still-new/still-novel/still-swamped Wit Hotel, although we'll nonetheless attempt to work an arrangement for a future outing. Meanwhile, `cousin’ George finessed a return to the Park Hyatt's Nomi outdoor venue for the second time since our inception. The Park Hyatt features one of the city’s premiere outdoor rooftop venues with ample space, a stunning cityscape view by any standard, serene and extravagant environment lending to ease of conversation, outstanding food/beverage, and an affable staff that has treated us well in the past and has been more than accommodating with this latest request!
We look forward to seeing your bright and smiling faces this Thursday. It‘s going to be another big one!
Your GMC co-directors…
George Bliss 312.217.0510 Terry Poulos 708.975.0571
www.greekmediaclub.com Webmaster: WIND radio’s Frank Mahony --------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Cousins’ Letter… A production of Chicago’s Greek Media Club July, 2009 edition
Saved the best for last. Scroll all the way to the bottom for our take on an event Melina Kanakaredes called “hands down the biggest night in the Greek American community’s history…”
Special thanks to Anastasia Athans Stofhoff (www.InsightDesignSolutions.com), creative designer of our new wine labels! Unveiling at the Park Hyatt. Thanks also to printer Bill Demis, also of the `Hellenic 5’ orchestra and www.everybodyopa.com, for printing the labels.
LAST EVENT: May 30, Peninsula Hotel, our third visit there and the view, ambiance, and service never cease to amaze and inspire. Not to mention the people, many new faces too! Plus, visiting from LA was host/actress Patricia Kara, Chicago native and spokes model on the daytime NBC “Deal or No Deal” game show. A few revelers: Chicago NBC 5 reporter Kim Vatis, FOX Chicago sportscaster Lou Canellis, WIND radio host Geoff Pinkus, local network reporter Bill Souronis, DailyKos.com star blogger Georgia Logothetis, longtime Chicago sportscaster Dyrol Joyner, Gabby founder Gregory C. Pappas, former pro boxer-turned-broadcast analyst Bobbie Hitz, and 100 or more others, not the least of which was Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who just this past Sunday publicly launched his candidacy for the U.S. Senate.
2 VARDALOS SUMMER FILMS: It’s been one `big, fat Greek summer’ for Nia Vardalos. She presented at the Gabby Awards while simultaneously promoting two new film releases in June and July: “My Life in Ruins” and “I Hate Valentine’s Day.” The writer/producer/actor is an alum of Chicago’s famous 2nd City improv group and she also has many Chicago-area real-life cousins, including Cook County Judge Anna Demacopoulos and Anna’s sister Nike Demacopoulos, a successful interior designer. “Ruins” was shot entirely in Greece and was the first movie ever to be allowed access for filming directly on the Acropolis!
CRAINS ON NIA: Our GMC ‘cousin’ Shia Kappos, business of life writer at Crains Chicago Business, caught up with Nia Vardalos for an interview in Shia’s entertaining weekly print and online column, focusing on Nia’s new film “My Life in Ruins.” You can view the interview by clicking on http://bit.ly/18ADoc and signing up for blog access (it’s free). Also see www.ChicagoBusiness.com.
HEFNER BOOK PARTY: A few of us GMCers were honored to attend a July 9 book discussion hosted by Playboy Enterprise immediate-past CEO Christie Hefner at her beautiful lakefront Chicago residence. The reception was for first-time author Barbara Bonfigli, who penned the new romance novel “Café Tempest.” Christie led a captivating discussion and follow-up Q&A for this “fictional memoir” about a woman’s life, loves, and adventures on a fictional Greek island. The book has garnered good early reviews! Barbara, while not Greek herself, has lived in Greece the majority of her entire life. She said she “knew it was the place for me the day the plane landed.” Barbara is a great ambassador for Greek people and culture, witnessed by the gleam in her eyes and enthusiasm with which she speaks about her experiences in Greece. Among GMCers attending: George Bliss and Terry Poulos, editor Susanna Negovan of Michigan Avenue magazine, Harpo Studios researcher Andrea Dres, and Kathy Smith of the National Hellenic Museum & Cultural Center. The museum is planning an October 15 book discussion with Barbara. Greek luminaries attending: Cook County Commissioner Maria Pappas and her husband, former Cook County judge Peter Kamberos, and restaurateur Demetri Alexander. For more, visit the blogs of Candace Jordan www.CandidCandace.com and former model and General Hospital actress Irene Michaels www.IonChicago.com. Both ladies are well-known Chicago personalities and they cover the gamut of our town‘s extensive social scene. The book event was also written up in Bill Zwecker’sChicago Sun-Times column. And visit www.BarbaraBonfigli.com to get your copy of some great summer reading
MORE HEFNER: Non-Greek luminaries attending included famous auctioneer Leslie Hindman, former Illinois Film Office chief Brenda Sexton, Jam Productions co-founder Arny Granat, and Christie’s husband, former Illinois state senator-turned-developer Bill Marovitz, who told of the 41 times he flew to Greece (not exaggerating) to finalize a Playboy casino in Rhodes. Despite the red tape we all know and love about Greece, it did finally get done!
ELTON JOHN/BILLY JOEL: What spectacular shows at Wrigley Field, where Elton John and Billy Joel serenaded us with dueling pianos and an array of classic hits that left the audience wanting for more. About 50,000 or more, in and around the ballpark, attended each of the two sold-out nights! In to visit was Connie Pappas Hillman, Elton’s North American booking agent for the past 30 years. Connie is the niece of Oak Brook’s Phil Bouzeos, longtime NHIBT Greek basketball guru. And Connie’s sister, Renee Pappas, is also one of our ‘cousins’ who follows our club all the way from Greece, where she works for the Foreign Ministry. Also on hand: Darcy Bouzeos, former Oprah Winfrey attorney and agent to the late baseball broadcast legend Harry Caray. Renee, meanwhile, was just in Chi-town for the Gabby’s. Connie, who’s married to former Birds front man Chris Hillman, and her extended Chicago family had two skyboxes reserved for the concerts and a few of us GMCers were fortunate to attend. Thanks Connie for one heckuva ride on the Rocket Express!
A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY: Our ‘cousin,` Chicago native-turned-LA resident Patricia Kara, is decidedly big city. But the model, host, and actress was not too urban to say “Deal” to a role in the latest Trace Adkins country music video, promoting his new hit song “Marry for Money.” Check it out on Youtube. Patricia’s part is pretty funny and her facial expressions are spot-on. Visit www.PatriciaKara.com.
ELLI KOUKINOU OCT. 10: So long as we're talking crooners, rising Greek singing phenom Elli Koukinou will touch down in Chicago October 10 for a concert that's sure to be a hit. Local promoters are GMC `cousins' Peter Quintas and Steven Livaditis, co-founders of www.portokalada.com. Almost all their productions turn to gold! Elli will also appear at the Hellenic Museum in August for an autograph session and meet 'n greet. More on that later.
SINGER MAKES TRIB FRONT PAGE: New GMC `cousin’ Nikki George, a rising singer on the Chicago jazz scene, was recently profiled on pages one and two of the front section of the Chicago Tribune. View the article here Three arrive at their second acts via different routes -- chicagotribune.com. And for a listen to “an obviously accomplished singer” (Howard Reich, Tribune critic) and someone who “knows how to wow an audience” (Bob Scott, Lake Area United Way), go to www.chicagojazz.com/nikkigeorge.
RE-LIVING DISCO DEMOLITION: More front-page Tribune ink. Our `cousin,’ professional photographer Diane Alexander White (aka Chicago’s “Nikon Mama”), had her story and picture (photo of her) featured on the front page of the Tribune in July in conjunction with the 30th anniversary of the infamous “Disco Demolition Night” at the old Comiskey Park. Diane was front and center in the middle of the field capturing all the action with her trusty camera. Years later, these images have become legendary in and of themselves, and they’re now being exhibited at the www.musicgarage.com in Chicago.
BECKHAM HERE AUG. 19, MUSEUM BENEFIT: Our `cousins’ at the Hellenic American Leadership Council are organizing “Greek Heritage Night with the Chicago Fire” Wednesday, August 19 at Toyota Park in Bridgeview. Portions of the proceeds benefit the National Hellenic Museum & Cultural Center in Chicago (our media angle). The Fire plays the LA Galaxy and the occasion will most likely mark the last Chicago MLS appearance by international soccer icon David Beckham. For more, visit www.HellenicMuseum.org or www.HALC.org. Special attraction for kids: Chance to go on-field and take pictures with your favorite players. Call the Museum’s Nick Pangere (312) 655-1234.
PERFECT GAME, PERFECT COLUMN: Chicago Tribune Page 2 columnist John Kass, a huge White Sox fan who also follows our group, wrote an insightful, feel-good piece on Sox pitcher Mark Burhle’s perfect game last week. Nobody fuses Chicago politics and sports like John. We hope to see him at another GMC event soon. He stopped in briefly last year following a speech before the Hellenic Bar Association, and was congenial in greeting some young, aspiring journalists.
MORE SPORTS: Our close `cousin” Eldon Ham - Chicago attorney, author, sports law expert and multi-media analyst - on June 15 had an op-ed piece published in the Sports Business Weekly magazine that focused on the alleged academic cheating improprieties on the part of Chicago Bulls player Derek Rose stemming from the player’s high school days. Eldon is also a frequent contributed on sports law to the Score sports radio 670-AM. Visit www.EldonHam.com.
`COUSIN' GEORGE EMCEES CELEB GAME: It was media, sports, politics, and entertainment all rolled up into one July 19 and our own George Bliss was at the center of it all. He emceed the Inductee Park Ceremony in Forest Park for the national No-Gloves Softball 16" Hall of Fame Field, and he stirred up some fun at the celeb-legends game that followed. Joining in the action was our `cousin' Amy Jacobson of the WLS 890-AM Roe Conn afternoon show. Other media celebs playing: NBC 5 sportscaster Daryl Hawks, WGN radio's Bob Sirott, and Comcast sports personality Mike North. Many other Chicago luminaries were on hand for the fun. Visit www.16inchsoftballhof.com.
A BILLION FOR CHARITY: Blackstone Group founder Pete G. Peterson has a new book out titled “The Education of an American Dreamer.” He’s devising ways to give away much of his fortune via philanthropy, upwards of one billion dollars to be precise.
3 EMMY NOMINATIONS: AOL vice-chairman emeritus and filmmaker Ted Leonsis produced the docu-drama full-length feature “The Rape of Nanking,” nominated for three Emmy Awards last week. Check out his film company www.snagfilms.com, and personal blog www.tedstake.com. Ted gets to Chicago on occasion and was all set to attend the Gabby‘s (he was a nominee) but O’Hare weather (tornado TD near the airport) forced flight cancellations around the country.
TALENT CASTING CALL: “More Stuffed Tomatoes” is a fun talent review hosted in Des Plaines at St. John’s Church auditorium. The next casting call is August 22 at 1 PM at the church. Producers Cathy Tshilds and Anastasia Nickolas seek talent and volunteers for this annual zany production. Email .
MARKETER WANTED: NY-based Optimum Methods & Solutions seeks a marketing pro for a new cross-platform media content delivery set-top box that aggregates ethnic content worldwide. Specifically seeking someone in the Greek community with Greek media connections and a marketing background. Contact Howard Miller, principal and director, and tell him we sentchya.
LITERARY AGENT WANTED: Our `cousin’ Peter Gallanis, publisher and author, is putting the final touches on a non-fiction novel about a tragic local mass murder that went unsolved for a decade before the killers were finally brought to justice. “Palatine: The Case of the Brown’s Chicken Massacre,” is based on a true story. Peter is seeking to hire a literary agent. He can be contacted at
DETROIT NEWSERS HONORED: Our `cousins’ at the Greek online web-zine www.Malista.com, Elena Kerasiotis and Erasmia Novotny, in mid-June were honored by the International Institute of Detroit for community service. Well-deserved!
COMEDIAN ON FOX NATIONAL TUESDAY: One of the three “Greek gods of comedy,“ Ellen Karis, will again appear on the FOX News Channel‘s “Strategy Room” this Tuesday, July 28 at 9am EST for another live and unique political discussion. Karis recently appeared on a panel with a former FBI and CIA agent - and quipped that she “felt like I was the meat in a high intelligence sandwich.” Ellen‘s dual comedy and socio-political background have helped raise her profile and garner increased opportunities that transcend comedy. View Ellen’s personal website at www.EllenKaris.com.
`COUSIN’ INTERNS AT CBS NATIONAL: Honors U. of Illinois journalism major Peter Zervakis, a straight A student throughout college and member of the Dean‘s List, is currently in the midst of serving a 10-week summer internship at the CBS News national network in New York. He’s writing stories for the website and was given his own blog too. Peter, who’s been following our emails from downstate, begins his junior year in the fall, where he’ll return to writing for the Daily Illini newspaper and contribute to three local Champaign-Urbana papers. A bright future awaits this young man!
ANOTHER CAROLINA `COUSIN’: Basile, you’ve got company. Tom Chase (Tssoussis) is a commercial video pro working in the Charlotte area. He’s also the Carolina Panthers’ official video technician for the NFL’s “Instant Replay” program.
NEW FACE AT PARK HYATT: We recently made contact with Maryanna Agelinas, who‘s tentatively set to attend her first GMC at this Thursday. She recently relocated to Chicago at the behest of her employer Warner Brothers Production. Maryanna serves as an associate producer on “The Judge Mathis Show.” Thanks to Maria Kagias of www.portokalada.com for the reference.
CHIAMPAS NEXT MATHIS? While still on the subject...The family of Cook County Judge Peggy Chiampas has a rich history in broadcasting so one can never tell about a future TV celeb judge show for our Chicago ‘cousin.’ Peggy‘s father Tom Chiampas is host of the Hellenic American Radio Hour and he‘s one of the deans of the Chicago Greek media scene. Starting in the 50’s, Tom‘s shows have aired in San Francisco, Milwaukee, and Chicago. Both he and his wife Katina Chiampas contribute on-air, so we‘re guessing it‘s in their daughter's genes too (we kid of course as Her Honor has never expressed a desire to get into the media biz).
STAMOS Q’S UP BARRINGTON MAG: Publisher and Phil Hellene Lisa Stamos, a past visitor to the GMC, is the publisher of Quintessential Barrington magazine, a high-end Chicago-area publication focusing on the northwest suburban region. See www.QBarrington.com.
EVEN MORE NEW FACES? She’s working in New York and can’t be with us this time around, so our `cousin’ Valerie Gobos, commercial radio/TV producer extraordinaire and filmmaker too, is sending us her real-life cousin, Frank Peppas, who heads up Starcast Network. Frank‘s firm is soon to be renamed Out of Home Advertising Network to better reflect it’s specialization in on-sight entertainment for bars and other venues.
MORE MEDIA: The "Pinker," Geoff Pinkus, hosts another live broadcast of his Sunday 5-8 WIND AM-560 radio show at Club Amore in River Grove. Details at www.GeoffPinkus.com. Our web guy Frank Mahony joins in as producer of the radio show...Another `cousin,' former Chicagoan Nick Pavlatos, is gearing up for his busy season. He's director of national NFL programming for Sirius Satellite Radio in New York...As always, we recommend checking out, for your singing pleasure, both www.johntruncali.com, www.jimmydamon.com, and www.perrydanos.com. Chicagoans all, although Perry now lives in Nashville...Sorry if we forgot anyone. Please re-email us if we overlooked an item.
THE GIFT OF GABBY: It’s a long one but we think most will enjoy. Our default modus operandi is rarely “wear it on our sleeves” ethnic cheerleading, but the Gabby’s were a really, really big thing to us so here goes. We have renewed ethnic optimism in the wake of the June 19 Gabby Awards, held in Chicago. This first-ever Oscar-like presentation honored “Greek America‘s Best & Brightest“ (hence, GABBY) in eight distinct categories of achievement and service. We’re proud to say that a host of GMCers were central to this seminal event. Topping the list - Gabby founder and Greek America magazine publisher Gregory C. Pappas, who created “hands down the biggest night in the Greek American community‘s history, or at least in my lifetime.” That sentiment was voiced by famous actress Melina Kanakaredes, honorary Gabby co-chair with international fashion icon John Varvatos. Among a throng of other GMCers attending and/or working the event, the emcee was our own Anna Davlantes , an Emmy-Award winning reporter at NBC5 Chicago, and interviewing celebs on the red carpet was Jane Monzures, a Chicago `cousin‘ now in Atlanta. More than 1200 attendees arrived from 28 states and four nations, descending upon DePaul University’s Merle Reskin Theatre for the sold-out affair. By one `in-the-know’ account, 500 wound up on the waiting list, while the lion’s share of those were relegated to the Hilton & Towers after-party only, a grand attraction in its’ own right with famous Greek performers Glykeria and Kostas Karafotias singing the night away. Revelers rubbed elbows with film actress Olympia Dukakis (winner of the first-ever “Gabby Lifetime Achievement Award“), filmmaker and Chicago 2nd City improv alum Nia Vardalos, top HBO exec Kary Antholis, and influential FOX films chief Jim Gianopulos, a man sometimes acclaimed with the title `the most powerful man in Hollywood.’ Not a bad crowd. And another of our Chicago `cousins,“ U.S. Olympic diver Christina Loukas, presented the Athletics award. The Chi-town connection was deep. Chicago-area nominees: Famous author Harry Mark Petrakis, Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, businessperson/philanthropists Chris Tomaras, John Calamos Sr., and Paula Fasseas, and the National Hellenic Museum & Cultural Centre in Chicago. It’s all at www.GabbyAwards.com. As for other media folk among us, quite possibly 30 or more were present, including George Bliss, Terry Poulos, NBC Chicago newscaster Kim Vatis, FOX Chicago sportscaster Lou Canellis, media liaison Rene Pappas of the Greek Foreign Ministry, New York GAME co-founder and former NBC/CBS network producer Dorie Klissas (now media director at NYU’s Langonne Medical Center), producer/director Peter Siaggas, WJJG radio’s Kiki Vale, Universal Press Syndicate’s Elaine Markoutos, Odyssey magazine publisher Art Dimopoulos, Hellenic Journal editor Frosene Philips, filmmaker George Stephanopoulos, PR maven Marina Lambropoulos, filmmaker/makeup artist Daphne Valentina, CPTT.org theater founder June Podagrossi, filmmaker Jerry Vasilatos, filmmaker Mary-Tina Vrehas, filmmaker Alethea Avramis, writer Aliki Marinos, and www.CarsDiva.com founder Demetra Markopoulos. WGN-TV culture/film critic Dean Richards, a GMC `cousin,’ interviewed Vardalos about the Gabby’s and her two new films, but a prior commitment prevented him from attending. Other GMCers closely involved: Brandon Wilson, associate editor at Greek America magazine and key point-man for the Gabby’s; www.Portokalada.com co-founders and Gabby committee members Peter Quintas and Steven Livaditis; and committee members Philip Constantinides, Nike Demacopoulos, Andrea Dres, Christina Deveros, Peter Georgalan, Conn Grapsas, Vivian Haritos, John Karolis, Maria Kagias, Tanya Kouris, Elena Limpert, Menia Poulios, Peter Poulos, Terry Poulos, Suzanne Velonis, and Tina Veros. In addition to the many Gabby volunteers who also happen to frequent GMC events, whose names are too voluminous for our little newsletter’s (alleged) abbreviated purpose, other GMCers deserving of recognition: Videographer Nick Mantis and photographers Sofia Spentzas, Chris Savas, and Christina Jennings. Footnote: The very first person to technically take a seat at the Reskin theater was Leon Stavrou, executive director of The Next Generation Initiative, a Washington, DC-based philanthropic organization. While on the topic of charity, the 501(c)3 not-for-profit Gabby’s were able to raise substantial dollars benefiting the Hellenic Legacy Fund’s “study abroad” program for American students, some non-Greek as well, to travel to Greece and learn more about Hellenism and its influence on Western thought, Democracy, basic human rights, and liberty - undoubtedly lynchpins of America and the quote “free world.” The next Gabby Awards are slated for June, 2011 at the same venue, with a scaled-down event being considered for 2010 to help keep the momentum going. For the latest, stay tuned to www.GabbyAwards.com. We apologize once more for the long missive, or if we inadvertently missed mentioning anyone‘s name. Please send us a note if that's the case and we'll make amends. And thanks to our non-Greek `cousins’ once again for kindly indulging us this (admittedly) big, fat, boastful trip down ethnicity lane, albeit the Gabby’s perhaps hold a modicum of potential for a modest contribution to the mainstream American dialogue. In that vein, we sincerely hope this item was of at least some value to all our `cousins,’ Greek or otherwise.
GABBY NO-SHOW DUE TO BABY DO-SHOW: Food Network celebrity “Iron Chef” Cat Cora was all set to attend the Gabby Awards, but of course (mother) nature takes precedence. She was in the final term of pregnancy and had to cancel her flight last minute. Latest Cat news: She recently turned up #3 on the “hot searches” blog as one of the top searched celebrity chefs on AOL.
Jane Monzures - Gabby Awards
Jane is great isn't she? I hope to see many of my greek friends at the gabby awards.. George Bliss
