THE NATIONAL COORDINATED EFFORT OF HELLENES (CEH)

Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America Demetrios to Close Wednesday Session with Prayer

DENVER, CO, August 22, 2008 – Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois State Treasurer and the first elected protégé of the presumptive Democratic nominee for President, Senator Barack Obama, has been selected to address the Democratic National Convention on Monday, August 25, the opening night. Treasurer Giannoulias’ remarks will focus on how Obama inspired him to get involved in public service, becoming the youngest state treasurer in the nation. Giannoulias will also discuss how Obama's unique leadership qualities and vision make him best suited to lead America. Giannoulias was selected from among approximately 600 senior Democratic office holders in America to speak at the national convention. In doing so, he joins the ranks of other former speakers including then-Governor Bill Clinton and then-State Senator Obama. The approximate attendance for this year’s Democratic convention is anticipated to be 6,000 delegates, 14,000 party members and 15,000 members of the media. Giannoulias will make his remarks at the Pepsi center on Monday, August 25 during the 7:30 to 8:00 p.m. EST time slot. On Wednesday, August 27, Treasurer Giannoulias will also address the National Democratic Ethnic Coordinating Council at the Colorado Convention Center in room Korbel 1D between 10 a.m. and noon. MDT. On Wednesday evening, following convention addresses by President Clinton and Obama’s nominee for Vice President, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America will lead the delegates in a closing prayer. Treasurer Giannoulias, the leading Greek Orthodox political figure in Illinois, helped arrange this role for the Archbishop.