GARFIELD, NJ – The Greek American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey held its Annual Awards Gala, honoring the Chamber’s Past Presidents, at The Venetian in Garfield, on April 19. The honorees were: Anastasius Efstratiades, Savas Tsivicos, George Callas, Stefanos Nyktas, Mario Afram, Zenon Christodoulou, Nicholas Chingas and Stavros Antonakakis.

They all warmly thanked the Chamber for the honor, noting the Chamber’s important work and urging all Greeks to become active members of the organization.

Chairman of the Board & CEO Michael Hadjiloucas congratulated his predecessors on their valuable offer and service and thanked attendees and sponsors who honored the event.

The Consul General in New York Konstantinos Koutras congratulated the Chamber of Commerce for the promotion of the values ??of Hellenism and also congratulated the honorees for their contribution to the Greek community. “The consulate,” he said, “will always be at your side, as an assistant, and sponsor of your efforts.”

The Consul General of Cyprus in New York, Ambassador Vasilios Philippou, congratulated the Chamber on the defense of Greek and Cypriot interests and expressed his gratitude to the honorees for their continued support on national issues.

New Jersey’s Democratic Senator Robert Menendez praised Hellenism for the progress and prosperity of the state and wished the Chamber to continue the important work it performs with the same zeal and dedication.

Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, expressed his pride in the presence of such a large number of successful Greeks in the state. “The Greeks,” he noted, “are a very important part of our society. They contribute to the growth of the economy and at the same time teach us the values, the customs, the traditions, and the glorious history of Greece.”

Congressman Frank Pallone (D-NJ 6^th District) said one of the Chamber’s main objectives is to strengthen trade relations between the United States, Greece and Cyprus. “Support,” he observed, “that it provides to its members is necessary to develop and maintain successful businesses while preserving the principles and traditions of Hellenism.”

Congressman Christopher Smith (R-NJ 4^th Distrct) said that for many years he worked closely with the Greek community, which honored him with the “Alexander the Great” and the “Pericles” awards.

Senator Robert Menendez at the Greek American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey Annual Awards Gala. Photo by Michalis Kakias

“Greece and Cyprus,” he said, “for many years have been close friends and allies of the United States. The relations of these three countries must remain strong and finally end the unacceptable occupation of Cyprus.”

Joseph Antonakakis was among those in attendance at the event, along with many members of the community who enjoyed the live music by Stavros Theodorou & Orchestra.

More information about the Greek American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey is available online at: www.greekamericanchamber.com.