Gus Bilirakis in Brooklyn

Congressman Gus Bilirakis, who currently represents the Ninth District of Florida as a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, was welcomed at an event that took place recently at Brooklyn’s The Mirage Diner, where he had the opportunity to meet and listen to long time supporters that exalted the work he’s done for the American people. Greek Americans throughout the United States have been organizing fundraising events for Michael Bilirakis’ son, who has contributed to the promotion of Greek and Cyprus issues throughout his years of service.

Gus Bilirakis is the Co-Chairman of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus and one of his main goal is, as he said, to “help our motherland, Greece.” He is also a Member of the Foreign Relations, Homeland Security, & Veterans Affairs Committees and Assistant Minority Whip. During his speech, he informed his supporters of his actions and initiatives for the Visa Waiver Program, the Cyprus problem, the Macedonia issue, and he promised that he will continue to fight for the Greek positions.

“Turkey uses the USA. They are not good allies,” he stated, and mentioned that his family will always be on the front line. He also said that he had a meeting with Republican Presidential Candidate, Senator John McCain and Ambassador Alexandros Mallias, and if McCain is elected, he and his father will not let him forget the Greek issues.

On behalf of the organizing committee, Mr. Markos Marinakis said that “Gus is following in his father’s steps and his presence in the House is necessary. We will continue to support him for many years to come.” Mr. Marinakis mentioned the Bilirakis family efforts for our national issues and he wished that the Greek American community would soon be supporting one of its own for the presidency.

Mr. Dimitrios B. Kontolios mentioned that Michael Bilirakis was an honored guest at the 5th International Convention of Chians Abroad, which took place in Chios last August, and he said that they were honored to have him participate in all the events and to inspire the young adults. He also thanked Gus for his services to the United States, as well as for Hellenism in general.

A lot of friends were present to welcome Congressman Bilirakis to Brooklyn. Among them were former New York State Assemblyman Matthew Mirones, Tassos Kokaliaris, Stella and Dr. Ronald Kokolis, Stelios Makarigakis, M/M Bill G. & Angela Kontolios, M/M Stelios & Themmy Kontolios, Markos and James Melis, George Ginnis, George Drogaris, Elisavet Tzoumaka, Chris Orfanakos, Dionysios Pilarinos, Nikolaos Taneris, Irene Marinakis, and many more including Georgia Vavas & Steve Mavronis visiting from Baltimore.