Res 0049-2014

By Council Members Constantinides, Gentile, Koo, Palma, Rose and Vallone Whereas, The United States is home to the largest Greek community outside of Greece, according to BusinessInsider.com; and Whereas, According to the United States Census Bureau, 2012 American Community Survey, there are an estimated 1,012,855 people of Greek ancestry in the United States; and Whereas, The 2012 American Community Survey also reports that the largest number of Greek-Americans live in New York City, with a population 67,241; and Whereas, Astoria, Queens has the largest Greek population in New York City, according to Crain's New York Business; and Whereas, Greek immigration to New York City began mainly in the 1890s; and Whereas, The imprint of Greek culture can be seen in numerous Greek restaurants, bakeries, tavernas, caf�s, and Greek Orthodox churches throughout the five boroughs; and Whereas, Greek-Americans have made significant contributions to the United States in various areas such as academia, film, literature, music, journalism and politics; and Whereas, Notable Greek-Americans include former Vice President Spiro Agnew, former Massachusetts Governor and 1998 Democratic Presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, Academy Award-winning actress and cousin of Michael Dukakis, Olympia Dukakis, actress Jennifer Aniston, actor John Stamos, New York City born actor Telly Savalas, tennis champion Pete Sampras, sportscaster Bob Costas, New York City anchorman Ernie Anastos, and Good Morning America co-host, political commentator and former advisor to President Bill Clinton, George Stephanopoulos; and Whereas, Annually, the White House issues a Presidential Proclamation recognizing March 25th as Greek Independence Day; and Whereas, In celebration of Greek culture and the 193rd anniversary of Greek independence, New York City will be hosting its annual Greek Parade on March 30, 2014; and Whereas, Although Greek-Americans are honored year round for their contributions to this City and to the nation, it is only befitting that they receive special recognition in the month of March; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York declares March 2014 as Greek-American History Month. LS #624 2/11/14 11:50 a.m. TC