SYRACUSE, NY – Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh read and presented the proclamation, declaring that March 25 is Greek Independence Day in Syracuse. The event was well attended by the Greek-American community and Philhellenes, including Dr. James Telonis – President of Syracuse AHEPA Chapter 37 and Chair of the event, New York State Assemblyman John Lemondes, St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church Parish Council President Peter Manolakos, St. Sophia presiding priest Rev. Fr. David Smith, and AHEPA Empire District 6 Lt. Governor Michael Labatos.

Soloist Saraya Laughlin led the singing of the U.S. National Anthem and Hyacinth Labatos sang the Greek National Anthem, both are granddaughters of Mike and Connie Labatos. This is an annual signature event for Syracuse AHEPA Chapter 37 and the Greek-American community of Syracuse and Central New York.