The American Hellenic Council honored Andrew Liveris, Rep. Shelley Berkley and Phedon Papamichael in 2012 Annual Awards Gala on March 31 in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES - Apr 6, 2012
The American Hellenic Council honored Andrew N. Liveris, Chairman and CEO of  The Dow Chemical Company, director & cinematographer Phedon Papamichael, and Congresswoman Shelley Berkley during the organization's annual gala, held on March 31st in Los Angeles.
Mr. Liveris, (see honoree tribute VIDEO) an American business executive of Greek-Australian descent whose 35-year career with Dow began in Australia in 1976 received the Aristeio Award in Business. Currently based in Midland, Michigan, Mr. Liveris has been CEO of Dow since 2004.
“We honored Mr. Liveris in recognition of his exemplary and dedicated work in successfully leading one of the most prestigious and diversified chemical companies in the world and for his commitment to promoting and reviving manufacturing in America,” said Alexander Mizan, Executive Director of the American Hellenic Council.
In his speech (see speech VIDEO), Mr. Liveris made reference to how America can compete within a competitive global environment and be the engine of growth. He was applauded for his belief that a revival of engineering and manufacturing can revive the American economy and make the United States once again the leader in the global economic scene.
Shelley Berkley (see honoree tribute VIDEO) who received the Pericles Award is the U.S. Representative for Nevada's 1st congressional district, serving since 1999, and a candidate for U.S. Senate. She is a member of the Democratic Party and an advocate for Hellenic issues. Ms. Berkley made reference to her Jewish-Greek roots from Thessaloniki and how she feels a connection to both Greece & Israel because of her mother. (see speech VIDEO) She also expressed here commitment to the cause of religious freedom for the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Turkey. Ms. Berkley is running for the US Senate in Nevada. She was introduced by her friend Dina Titus, who is running for her Congressional seat.
Phedon Papamichael (see honoree tribute VIDEO) received the Aristeio Award in the Arts & Entertainment. Papamichael is an award-winning cinematographer and film director whose credits include “Walk The Line”, “Pursuit of Happyness”, “Sideways”, "Ides of March" and “The Descendants” among many other films. He spoke of the need for supporting young Greek filmmakers in times of crisis and of the need to support the Arts becuase unfortunately the arts are the first thing to get cut in times of financial hardship. (see speech VIDEO)
Each year, the AHC celebrates the achievements of dedicated leaders in the fields of politics, business and the arts who have excelled in their area of expertise and/or have made significant contributions to Hellenic causes.
The event included Greek music & dancing in performances by Margarita and the Takis Kokotas Band and a special guest appearance by Greek-Australian singer Vassy.
This year's Awards Gala was sold out with more than 420 people in attendance, including Congressman Howard Berman, Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez, LA City Attorney Carmen Trutanich and LA Mayoral Candidate Eric Garcetti.
The event's grand benefactor was Earth Friendly Products. Event benefactors were the Kallins Family, Capri Laguna Inn. and Marcus & Millichap. "We would like to thank ALL of our Benefactors, Patrons and Sponsors as well as all of our attendees who year after year, day in and day out, support our causes and event", said Alexander Mizan, Executive Director of the American Hellenic Council.