FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: NICK LARIGAKIS

January 29, 1998 No. 06/98

AHI'S ANNUAL HELLENIC HERITAGE AND PUBLIC SERVICE AWARDS DINNER TO HONOR FOUR DISTINGUISHED GREEK AMERICANS AND TWO MEMBERS OF CONGRESS

The American Hellenic Institute will honor four distinguished Greek Americans and two members of Congress, at its Annual Hellenic Heritage and Public Service Awards Dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington D.C. on February 21, 1998.

The Master of Ceremonies will be Ike Pappas, distinguished former CBS News television reporter.

"The dinner is a special moment once a year when the American Hellenic Institute (AHI) and its constituent organizations, the American Hellenic Institute Public Affairs Committee (AHIPAC) and the American Hellenic Institute Foundation recognizes individual Greek Americans, business leaders and members of Congress for their achievements and celebrates the contributions that Greek Americans have made to our country," said AHI Executive Director Nick Larigakis.
MMThe event will bring together Greek Americans and Philhellenes across the country who support the efforts of AHI to strengthen relations between the United States, Greece, Cyprus and within the American Hellenic Community, and Greek Americans who have excelled in their chosen fields of endeavor. The institute from its founding in 1974 has supported the rule of law in international affairs, the security and inviolability of Greece's borders and justice and freedom for the people of Cyprus. Further, the AHI, under the auspices of the AHI business Network, provides members with the capability of reaching out, sharing business information and contacts with Greek American professionals.

This year's recipients of AHI's Hellenic Heritage Achievement Awards are:
** George Behrakis, philanthropist and businessman from Massachusetts;
** Congressman Randall 'Duke' Cunningham (R-CA);
** Dr. Stamatis Krimigis, distinguished international space scientist from Maryland;
** Dr. Ioanna Morfessis, President & CEO, Greater Baltimore Alliance;
** Harry J. Pappas, prominent telecasting entrepreneur from California; and
** Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA).

Also, as part of its annual celebration, the Board of Directors will be hosting an open house and reception at the Hellenic House, the headquarters of the American Hellenic Institute at 1220 16th Street, NW on Saturday, February 21 from 12 noon ­ 2:00 p.m..

For reservations and further information contact Nick Larigakis at 1-800-424-9607 or 202-785-8430.