A celebration for Greeks

By Sean Barron

The arts and mathematics are but a few areas that have benefited from Greeks’ contributions, a judge said.

WARREN — For Bill Axiotis, attending a parade commemorating the independence of Greece is greater than simply being a yearly priority: It’s a family tradition.

“We’re proud to be Greek Americans,” said Axiotis, of Howland. “We love this country as much as we love Greece.”

Axiotis came to the eighth annual Greek Independence Day Parade and Celebration on Sunday with his three daughters, Eleni, 7, Kayla, 14, and Arianne, 15, all of whom marched in the parade.

Axiotis said he’s tried to raise his daughters to learn and appreciate their language and heritage. The girls have been to Greece on four occasions to visit family, he added.

A brisk wind and sunny skies greeted the few hundred adults and children who took part in the parade, set up to honor the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire after nearly 400 years of oppression under Turkish rule. Many Greeks recognize March 25, 1829, as the start of the modern Greek state.

A colorful medley of predominantly blue outfits and costumes formed at the front of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High St. N.E., after services there. Shortly past noon, marchers started at the church and proceeded the half-mile to city hall, 391 Mahoning Ave N.W.

Giving the keynote address was Judge Peter J. Kontos of Trumbull County Common Pleas Court, who also served as grand marshal.

Calling Greece “the birthplace of democracy,” Judge Kontos noted that Greek people suffered a series of atrocities during the war for independence, which got under way in March 1821. Judge Kontos, who came to the United States from Greece during his childhood, said that once they achieved independence, many Greeks realized they could prosper and be productive.

Greek people have greatly contributed to many facets of life, including Christianity, mathematics, the arts and architecture, the judge continued. The Capitol buildings in nearly all 50 states have pillars, columns and other components with Greek influence, he added.

The event’s master of ceremonies was Jim Graham, president of United Autoworkers Local 1112. Graham praised local Greek people who have contributed positively to the community.

Also giving remarks were Anthony Capranica, St. Demetrios’ parish president, and Mayor Michael J. O’Brien, who declared March 30 as Greek Independence Day in Warren.