US Congressman’s Visit to Turkish-Occupied Cyprus Condemned

Tasos Kokkinidis
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US Congressman’s Visit to Turkish-Occupied Cyprus Condemned
Cyprus US Congressman
Nicosia condemned the visit to occupied Cyprus by Congressman Pete Sessions. Credit: Public Domain

Cyprus has strongly condemned the visit of US Congressman Pete Sessions to Turkish-occupied Cyprus, denouncing it as a violation of international law and a departure from Washington’s official stance.

The Foreign Ministry of Cyprus stated in a statement on Friday that Sessions’ decision to visit the illegal territory was a deliberate choice on his part, disregarding the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and seemingly serving other undisclosed purposes.

The ministry emphasized that unlike other cases, prevention of this visit was not feasible “because of his history of relations with Turkey.”

According to the same statement, “The Republic of Cyprus maintains direct and close communication with the US on this matter, guided by their long-standing cooperation.”

It added that this cooperation is founded, among other things, on the American authorities’ official position regarding the Cyprus issue, “which remains unchanged and aligned with international law.”

Sessions, a Republican representing Texas’ 17th congressional district, made the visit on Thursday, becoming the first American politician to land at Ercan International Airport, before meeting with senior Turkish-Cypriot officials.

The visit was initiated by an invitation from the Turkish-Cypriot Chamber of Commerce, following Sessions’ earlier official visit to Turkey.

US Congressman’s visit to occupied Cyprus contradicts American policy

The US does not recognize the self-proclaimed “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”).

It regards the status quo on Cyprus as unacceptable and supports efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation.

Successive US administrations have viewed UN-facilitated, Cypriot-led settlement negotiations based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation framework as the best means to achieve a fair and permanent settlement.

Sessions’ visit to the occupied part of Cyprus comes at a period when relations between Nicosia and Washington are on excellent footing.

Last September, the US lifted the arms embargo on Cyprus after the State Department ruled that Cyprus has met the necessary conditions under relevant legislation to allow the approval of exports, re-exports, and transfers of defense articles.

US policy requires the denial of exports, re-exports, or transfers of defense articles to Cyprus unless the president certifies to congressional committees that authorities are cooperating with Washington to implement anti-money laundering regulations and financial regulatory oversight reforms.

It also requires Cyprus to take steps to deny Russian military vessels access to ports for refueling and servicing.

In December 2019, the Eastern Mediterranean Security and Energy Partnership Act of 2019 was signed into law as part of the FY 2020 Appropriations Act and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2020. This highlights the United States’ security interests in the Eastern Mediterranean region, including countering Russian influence, the State Department says.

Skopelos Island: A Journey Through Time and Flavors

Christina Athanasiou
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Skopelos Island: A Journey Through Time and Flavors
Skopelos beach
Aerial photo of Skopelos beach. Credits: Eythimis Siranidis / Paraiso Beach Bar Skopelos

Set against the vibrant Aegean Sea backdrop, the island of Skopelos is an enchanting, timeless destination that mesmerizes visitors. Part of the Sporades archipelago, the island blends natural allure, deep-rooted history, rich gastronomy, and the warm embrace of Greek culture. This authenticity is remarkably preserved, despite the attention Skopelos has garnered from the film Mamma Mia.

The island’s main town, Skopelos Town, welcomes you with its distinct charm as you disembark from your boat. Here, traditional houses with red roofs dance up the hillside towards an imposing Venetian castle. Wandering through the winding cobblestone streets, you’ll experience bursts of color and scent from the flourishing bougainvillea and jasmine flowers.

Skopelos offers an unforgettable spiritual journey

With its plentiful monasteries and churches each bearing its own unique story Skopelos is a place of pilgrimage. Among them, the Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri, perched on a 100-meter rock and immortalized in Mamma Mia, offers a panoramic view after a climb of two hundred steps. It is a breathtaking sight well worth the effort.

For nature enthusiasts, the island is a verdant oasis with over half of its territory blanketed by an untouched pine forest. These lush landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration, hiking, and connecting with the island’s unspoiled nature. The forests extend to the coastline, giving way to an array of idyllic beaches. From the serene ambiance of Stafilos Bay to the dazzling beauty of Kastani and Milia and to the breathtaking Neo Klima, Skopelos boasts a plethora of unique beach experiences, all inviting visitors to unwind under the gentle touch of the Greek sun.

Digging deeper into the island’s history reveals a fascinating timeline, stretching from the Neolithic era to the Byzantine period and beyond. Its past has been influenced by various civilizations, all leaving their mark and contributing to the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Archaeological sites such as the ancient ruins of Asclipio and Sentoukia, with their mysterious rock tombs, offer intriguing glimpses into Skopelos’ past.

Skopelos Cheese Pie
Skopelos Cheese Pie by CheapskateCigarettes. Credits: Flickr/CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

A journey to Skopelos is incomplete without indulging in its culinary delights. The island’s cuisine is a gastronomic adventure, offering dishes steeped in tradition and brimming with local ingredients. Taste the savory cheese pie, a distinct twist on the classic Greek dish, or try the sweet Skopelos plum in syrup, a regional specialty. The island is also known for its honey and local wines, products of its fertile land that perfectly complement any meal.

skopelos island night
The island of Skopelos, Greece by John Karak Credits: Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0.

Beyond its picturesque landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine, Skopelos bursts with life and energy during its vibrant festivities and cultural events. These celebrations are a fantastic opportunity to engage with the locals and immerse oneself in the island’s traditions and folklore. Must-visit spots for history and culture buffs include the Folklore and Naval Museums, both providing intriguing insights into Skopelos’ past and cultural heritage.

As the sun sets and Skopelos is painted with the warm hues of the evening, the island reveals a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a laid-back evening at one of the many beach bars, savoring cocktails by the sea, or get swept away by the melodies of live Greek music in bustling tavernas. The island offers a diverse range of nighttime activities to cater to all tastes.

Paraiso Beach Bar: Skopelos’ ‘must’ destination

A brand new addition to the island’s beach, cuisine and nightlife is Paraiso Beach Bar Skopelos. Situated in the Aegean Sea’s most enchanting locale, where the turquoise waves serve as its signature, Paraiso Beach Bar eagerly awaits your arrival to provide unforgettable experiences and high-end amenities.

Paraiso beach Bar skopelos restaurant
Paraiso Beach Bar Skopelos restaurant. Credits: Paraiso Beach Bar Skopelos

Initiate your day with a perfect breakfast composed of local fresh produce while soaking up breathtaking vistas of the untouched landscape.

Take full advantage of the splendid Greek island sunshine on the comfortable and inviting sun loungers situated just a few steps from the shore.

Enhance these invaluable moments with exceptional cocktails and invigorating juices, crafted from Greek-grown ingredients, while music tantalizes your senses.

Savor inventive Mediterranean culinary delights at the island’s most renowned eatery, providing a gourmet experience sure to satisfy even the most discerning gastronomes. The menu has been prepared by Michelin star-awarded chef Angelos Liontos, and you can enjoy anything from Mediterranean cuisine to sushi.

Paraiso Beach bar Skopelos gastronomy
Paraiso Beach bar Skopelos gastronomy. Credits: Paraiso Beach bar Skopelos

Your passage to opulence begins with a selection of massage therapies, rounding off the complete relaxation experience.

The picturesque scenery is further elevated by Paraiso Boutique. Adorn your holiday with the sublime elegance of clothing and accessories, ensuring that this unforgettable experience lingers vividly in your memory!

Paraiso Beach Bar
Paraiso Beach Bar Loungers. Credits: Paraiso Beach Bar

With its blue and green crystal-clear waters and friendly locals, Skopelos isn’t merely a destination. It’s an immersive experience. It’s about becoming one with the unspoiled nature of the island, delving deep into its rich history, savoring authentic gastronomic delights, and forging connections with its people. So, when planning your next holiday, consider Skopelos, an island that will make a lasting impression on your heart and soul and beckon you to return time and time again.

Thessaloniki Among Best World Destinations to Visit in 2023

Tasos Kokkinidis
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Thessaloniki Among Best World Destinations to Visit in 2023
Thessaloniki White Tower
The emblematic White Tower in Thessaloniki. Credit: Greek Reporter

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is among the best destinations to visit in 2023, CNN travel experts recently said.

There’s been no shortage of reasons to visit Greece’s second city in recent times, with a UNESCO-endorsed local food scene that recently celebrated the refurb and reopening of its century-old Modiano food market.

Thessaloniki has for centuries been a crossroads of flavors and cultures and has always been referred to as the country’s gastronomic capital. It recently became the first Greek city to join UNESCO’s Network of Gastronomy, and is recognized for its rich culinary traditions, vibrant gastronomic community, and delightful local delicacies.

Thessaloniki is also indisputably number one when it comes to Greek sweets. Tsoureki, Bougatsa, Trigona Panoramatos, and Syropiasta are the most famous of the northern city’s delectable sweet treats.

Thessaloniki: The Undisputed Capital of Greek Sweets. Image: Trigona Panoramatos—crisp phyllo filled with cream is a specialty of Thessaloniki. Credit: Greek Reporter

Throw in a popular waterfront and proximity to beautiful beaches and inland mountains, and Thessaloniki is surely a contender for one of Europe’s best city-break destinations, CNN says.

The city’s stunning historic waterfront is perfect for evening strolls and daytime exploration.

Don’t forget to stop and admire Thessaloniki’s famous White Tower and grab some snacks from street vendors.

Currently, the monument is home to a museum that lays out the history of Thessaloniki. Visitors can climb up the Tower’s winding stairs until they reach its fascinating exhibition space.

You can also climb aboard one of Thessaloniki’s floating bars and cruise the Gulf of Thermaikos while enjoying the company of your friends and loved ones.

Near Thessaloniki are some of the best beaches in Greece located in Halkidiki. Made up of three peninsulas, Halkidiki is the perfect place to relax in the summertime, offering many opportunities for those who prefer to vacation in quieter, more natural surroundings.

Lagomandra Beach in Halkidiki
Halkidiki has long been famed for its beautiful natural landscapes, outstanding seaside resorts, and exotic beaches. Credit: vujas, CC BY-SA 3.0

Thessaloniki Metro and ancient discoveries

Long defined by the number “2,” Thessaloniki, which was the second largest city in the Byzantine Empire and the second busiest port in the Ottoman Empire, is currently the second largest city in Greece.

For centuries, its importance and wealth have derived from its location in the far northeastern corner of the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea.

All being well, November 2023 should see the opening of the main metro line of an infrastructure megaproject that will eventually connect the city’s downtown to its international airport.

antiquities Thessaloniki
Antiquities discovered around the construction site of the new Thessaloniki Metro will be displayed at the station. Credit: Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports

Driverless trains will whisk passengers through tunnels whose excavation has added to Thessaloniki’s already rich catalog of archeological discoveries, many of which will be on display in specially created museum stations.

The first such museum station will be at the Venizelos Station, where ancient objects dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods from between the 3rd and 6th centuries AD will be displayed.

A large number of coins were discovered, together with many items of pottery, as well as glass, iron, bronze, marble, and bone finds.

“Thessaloniki, at the end of 2023, will have an extensive archaeological site integrated into the metro station system,” Culture Minister Lina Mendoni recently said. “What we are doing shows our respect for the past, present and future of the city and its citizens.”

Experience Thessaloniki’s incredible nightlife

Thessaloniki has some of the most prestigious and largest universities in the country. Thanks in part to its huge student population, the city has some of the greatest nightlife in the Balkans as well.

Whether you want a cozy night out at a small bar along Nikis Boulevard, prefer barhopping on Valaoritou and Syngrou, or want to go dancing all night at Mylos Warehouse, Thessaloniki has something for everyone.

The neighborhood of Ladadika has become very popular in recent years as a local hangout spot, though the area was originally home to commercial facilities.

The old spaces have been turned into trendy bars and restaurants where the city’s young people often hang out.

For another great hangout spot for the young, check out the area around Rotunda and Aristotelous Square.

How Did Bronze Age Greeks Know About Asian Monkeys?

Tasos Kokkinidis
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How Did Bronze Age Greeks Know About Asian Monkeys?
Monkeys bronze age greeks akrotiri
Detail from the “Blue Monkeys” fresco at Akrotiri, Santorini. Credit: Zde/ Wikimedia Commons/ CC BY-SA 4.0

Scientists have debated the reason why Bronze Age wall paintings at the ancient settlement of Akrotiri on the Greek island of Santorini depict monkeys that existed thousands of miles away in Asia.

Some claim the works of art suggest that ancient cultures separated by great distances had clearly been trading and exchanging ideas for some time despite barriers and difficulties involved.

Akrotiri was a settlement of the Minoan civilization in Bronze Age Greece buried by ash from a volcanic eruption which occurred around 1600 BC.

Many of the paintings on the walls of buildings there clearly portray monkeys; yet, there is no archaeological evidence of monkeys in Greece at the time.

Most of the monkeys in the artwork have been identified as Egyptian species, such as olive baboons.

This makes sense because Egypt is known to have had contact with the Minoan civilization, which occupied several Aegean islands.

bronze age greeks monkeys akrotiri
Credit: Zde/ Wikimedia Commons/ CC BY-SA 4.0

Monkeys depicted on Bronze Age Greek Frescoes from Indus Valley

However, as a New Scientist report recently revealed, the other primates depicted on the walls were grey langur monkeys. Their habitat includes southern Asia, or what is now Nepal, Bhutan, and India, and particularly  the Indus Valley, home to one of the greatest ancient Bronze Age civilizations.

Somehow, the artist who painted the monkey mural must have seen a grey langur for himself.

Did Minoan Greeks visit the Indus Valley? “I wouldn’t be surprised if someday in the future we found evidence for that kind of direct contact,” says Marie Nicole Pareja at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Of course, it is also possible langur monkeys were brought to Greece, but again, there is no evidence, Pareja adds in her interview with the New Scientist.

Instead, it may be that Greece and Indus were connected via Mesopotamia, another great Bronze Age civilization centered in what is now Iraq.

Langurs may have been imported to Mesopotamia, where they were seen by visiting Greeks, for menageries.

“It’s evidence of this far-reaching trade, these relationships with these far-flung areas,” says Pareja. Hence, even in the Bronze Age, it seems there indeed was a great deal of exchange between these seemingly disparate and completely distant civilizations.

Akrotiri was destroyed in the Theran eruption sometime in the 16th century BC and buried in volcanic ash, which preserved the remains of fine frescoes and many objects and artworks.

The earliest evidence of human habitation of Akrotiri can be traced back as early as the fifth millennium BC when it was a small fishing and farming village.

By the end of the third millennium, this community developed and expanded significantly. One factor for Akrotiri’s growth may be the trade relations it established with other cultures in the Aegean, as evidenced in fragments of foreign pottery at the site.

Akrotiri’s strategic position on the primary sailing route between Cyprus and Minoan Crete also made it an important point for the copper trade, thus allowing it to become an important center for processing copper, as proven by the discovery of moulds and crucibles there.

Its prosperity continued for about another five hundred years. Paved streets, an extensive drainage system, the production of high-quality pottery and further craft specialization all point to the level of sophistication achieved by the settlement.

This all came to an end, however, in the 16th century BC with the volcanic eruption of Thera.

Iklaina: The First City-State of Ancient Greece

Philip Chrysopoulos
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Iklaina: The First City-State of Ancient Greece
Iklaina first city state greece
Credit: Iklaina Archaeological Project

The little-known site, Iklaina, on the Peloponnesian peninsula was a major center of Mycenaean culture; findings now indicate that it was the very first city-state in ancient Greece.

Iklaina marks the transition from a world without organized states to a world where the state is the dominant political institution. In the city-state located in todays’ Messenia prefecture, archaeologists have discovered the oldest written text in Europe on a tablet made of clay.

Situated at a strategic location overlooking the Ionian Sea, Iklaina appears to have been an important capital city of the Late Bronze Age (ca. 1600-1100 BC) that became famous for such mythical sagas as the Trojan War.

Iklaina may be first city state in ancient Greece

An open-air pagan sanctuary, an early Mycenaean palace, giant terrace walls, murals, an advanced drainage system, and a clay tablet from between 1450 and 1350 BC featuring an early example of Linear B writing have reinforced the view that this ancient Greek town was one of the earliest complex states in ancient Greece by hundreds of years, if not the first.

The massive buildings that have been unearthed apparently served as administrative centers, and the clay tablet is the earliest-known governmental record in Europe.

Iklaina apparently had a centralized political administration, a complex organized society, and an advanced economic organization.

Until very recently, the earliest complex state in ancient Greece had been thought to have arisen around 3,100 years ago; however, the evidence from Iklaina indicates that the complex states were taking form as long as 3,400 years ago.

Archaeologists and historians believe that Iklaina was ultimately vanquished by its great rival, the famed Mycenae.

It was destroyed by enemy attack at the same time that the Palace of Nestor expanded, most likely indicating that it was the ruler of the Palace of Nestor who took over Iklaina.

Mycenaean civilization

The ancient Mycenaeans ruled mainland Greece and the Aegean Sea from 1,600 BC to 1,200 BC.

Mycenae, the kingdom of the mythical king Agamemnon, is the most important and richest palatial center of the Late Bronze Age in Greece.

Myths related to its history, from the Homeric epics to the great tragedies of the Classical period, have inspired poets and writers over many centuries.

For several centuries, mainland Greeks appeared to imitate the Minoans. Pylos, an early Mycenaean power center, had buildings that resembled the large houses with ashlar masonry found at Knossos, Crete.

The mansions had painted walls, a type of artistry pioneered by the Minoans.

For a certain time period, the Mycenaeans imported Minoan luxury goods and incorporated Minoan symbols, such as the bull, into their own art.

Wealthy Mycenaeans were buried with Minoan luxury goods while other graves included locally produced Mycenaean objects, such as painted pottery, that were copies of Minoan originals.

The Mycenaeans also adapted the Minoan script, called Linear A, for their own use. This adapted script is now called Linear B.

Magic Johnson Feels Like an Ancient God in Greece

Tasos Kokkinidis
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Magic Johnson Feels Like an Ancient God in Greece
Magic Johnson God
Magic Johnson and his wife Earlitha “Cookie” Johnson dressed in ancient Greek attire. Credit: Twitter/Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr. continues his vacation in Greece. He posted a photograph on social media of himself and his family dressed as Greek Gods and Goddesses onboard their yacht which is currently traversing the beautiful blue waters of the Greek Mediterranean.

The retired basketball star, 63, and his wife Earlitha “Cookie” Johnson joined their friends on the Phoenix 2 yacht for a toga party.

Johnson and Cookie, 64, both wore gold laurels around their heads, with Johnson in a white toga and Cookie in a white dress.

“The Phoenix 2 crew put on a Greek god and goddess extravaganza tonight on the yacht,” Johnson captioned the photos. “We had so much fun dressing up and dancing and Chef Daisy prepared an outstanding spread for us to enjoy! What a beautiful sunset tonight in Greece.”

Hours before the party, Johnson took out a jet ski in Myrtos Bay on Kefalonia Island. “There is no greater thrill for me than being out on the water and seeing some beautiful coastlines, especially in a country like Greece,” he captioned a gallery of clips and photos from his jet ski adventure.

Magic Johnson falls in love with Greece

Johnson and Cookie are parents to son EJ, 31, and daughter Elisa, 28. The former Los Angeles Lakers player also shares son Andre, 42, with ex-girlfriend Melissa Mitchell.

Magic Johnson and his family have been yachting in Greece since July for the second summer in a row. They have been documenting their adventures on social media.

A few days earlier, Cookie and her friends were seen in a photo shoot with the famous Flying Dresses of Santorini.

“My wife Cookie looks absolutely STUNNING in her gold flying dress!” Johnson said.

Last year, Magic Johnson had the chance to speak with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

“I had the honor and pleasure of getting a surprise call from the Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis welcoming me to the country and seeing how my visit has been so far,” he had reported, adding that he “told the Prime Minister it…[was] amazing and life changing!”

“From the culture, to the history and the food, everything has been exceptional!” he remarked. “The people have welcomed Cookie, me, and our friends with open arms.” 

This summer season has seen several celebrities from both the sporting and Hollywood worlds choose Greece as their vacation destination.

For example, during his yachting tour of the Eastern Mediterranean, tennis star Rafael Nadal made a visit to the Greek city of Patras. The famous athlete was spotted earlier last week touring the Ionian islands including Corfu, Meganisi, and Ithaca.

In June, Hollywood actors Matt Damon and Chris and Liam Hemsworth were spotted on the Greek island of Mykonos. George Clooney was also recently present on the island for a promotional event.

Why Fraternities and Sororities are Called “Greek Life”

Thomas Kissel
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Why Fraternities and Sororities are Called “Greek Life”
Greek Life
An east view of the Chi-Phi fraternity house at Georgia Tech, Atlanta. Credit: DXR, CC BY-SA 4.0

Have you ever wondered why American college fraternities and sororities are referred to as “Greek life?” Why are they commonly named after the Greek alphabet?

“Greek life” is a term for different exclusive societies—fraternities for men, sororities for women—that have an association with the university or college where they are established. Some fraternities and sororities have chapters across different campuses.

These groups are notorious for their exclusivity and high bar of entry, but if one is able to become a member, these challenges can pay off big time, as many sorority sisters and fraternity brothers become life-long friends, as well as colleagues in their professional fields.

Why the ‘Greek’ in “Greek life?”

Referring to fraternities and sororities as “Greek life” became a thing when students initially convened in 1775 to establish the first fraternity at the College of William and Mary. They wanted a way to distinguish themselves from other clubs that had a reputation solely for partying and felt that using the Greek alphabet would associate them with Greece’s rich cultural history of intellectual innovation. Thus, Phi Beta Kappa was born.

Furthermore, founders were keen to create an air of secrecy around the club. The founding members surmised that the Greek name would only be decipherable to students in-the-know who had the intellectual savvy to recognize the language.

In the early days of fraternities, attaining membership was likened to being a member of a secret society and using the Greek alphabet was a form of encryption. Although Greek life has become a more accessible and publicly visible phenomenon, chapters still retain this quality of exclusivity and secrecy, specifically around obtaining membership, to this day.

Phi Beta Kappa expanded to the Harvard and Yale campuses by 1779. By the nineteenth century, Greek life retained some elements of secret societies while leaning into the social and academic aspects of its presence on campus in the 1800s.

Students found the use of the Greek alphabet to be a signifier of academic integrity, a rich basis on which to build the culture of fraternities and sororities. Various groups modeled after the chapter at the College of William and Mary were established, combining and recombining different letters and numbers from the Greek alphabet to distinguish themselves from the original Phi Beta Kappa while simultaneously aligning themselves with the culture.

Greek life has become a staple of colleges and universities in the United States and has had no lack in prestigious members. Phi Beta Kappa alone has inducted seventeen U.S. Presidents, forty Supreme Court Justices, and 136 Nobel Laureates into its fraternity, including former President Barack Obama, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Sonia Sotomayor, and current Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen.

Congress Approves Amendment for New US Bases in Greece

Tasos Kokkinidis
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Congress Approves Amendment for New US Bases in Greece
US bases Greek islands
A recent joint military exercise between Greek and US forces. Credit: Embassy of the US in Athens

The House of Representatives approved an amendment on Wednesday to examine a plan to construct US bases on Greek islands, allowing for the expansion of US military presence.

The amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual authorization bill for the Department of Defense which was recently passed by House of Representatives, was spearheaded by U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY).

Meng is a member of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus and the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations.

The amendment requires that the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State jointly submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the security relations between the United States and Greece.

US bases on Greek islands

The report is to include an analysis of the potential for additional bases or expanded U.S. military presence in Greece, specifically on Greek islands.

The amendment comes as U.S. forces were granted access to four additional military bases in Greece under the expanded defense cooperation agreement signed by the two countries in October of 2021. In recent years, the Pentagon has stepped up military activities in Greece in response to Russian naval operations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The phrase “throughout Greece” was added to the MDCA in 2021 to describe in which geographic locations new bases could be established. This specific quotation was utilized by Greece to recommend Limnos and, most crucially, Skyros as islands that may house a US military presence, and also to stress the need for a base in Alexandroupoli in northern Greece.

Former Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias, the current defense minister, spearheaded the campaign to secure Skyros.

“I have been an adamant supporter of the U.S.- Greece relationship since my earliest days in Congress,” said Rep. Meng.

“Queens has a robust and active Greek community that I am proud to represent in Congress,” Meng said. “My amendment in support of the robust U.S.-Greece defense relationship, particularly with respect to the expansion of basing rights between our two nations, will only help to further fortify the bond between the U.S. and Greece. I thank the leadership of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus for supporting my amendment and I look forward to it becoming law.”

“We must continue to make progress deepening the relationship between the United States and our democratic allies in the East Mediterranean,” said Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH).

“As co-chair of the Hellenic Caucus, I’m pleased that this amendment to bolster our security cooperation with Greece was included in the House National Defense Authorization Act,” Pappas said. “I’ll continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to strengthen this critical partnership and protect America’s security interests.”

Rep. Gus Bilirakis: Strengthening our strategic partnership

“Greece has consistently proven itself to be one of the United States’ most reliable allies. This critical legislation strengthens our strategic partnership and enables continued security cooperation to facilitate enduring stability throughout the region,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL).

“As President Biden moves to appease Erdogan, who has undermined our counter-ISIS operations in Syria, repeatedly threatened Greece with illegal flyovers and rhetoric of invasion, and is the only NATO leader who has not sanctioned Russia, it’s critically important for Congress to assess the security relationship between the U.S. and Greece which is one of our nation’s oldest allies,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY).

“I’m pleased to see this amendment included in the NDAA and encourage the Biden Administration to proceed with caution to prevent future aggression against our Eastern Mediterranean allies,” she added.

“The security relationship that the United States and Greece share is too important to be overlooked in the NDAA process,” said Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV). “I joined my colleagues to make sure the Administration keeps Congress up to speed on how the updated Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement and the potential for a modified U.S. military presence can support our nations’ continued bilateral cooperation.”

“The American Hellenic Institute has appreciated the opportunity to work closely with Congresswoman Grace Meng, a strong supporter of U.S.-Greece relations, over the years,” said Nick Larigakis, the President of the American Hellenic Institute. “We applaud her recent work to add SEC. 1236 to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024, which mandates a report on the critically important security relationship between the United States and Greece.”

“This will help to expand the comprehension and awareness of the multifaceted partnership between two NATO allies, which will in turn improve global security, regional stability, and the protection of democratic values,” Larigakis maintained.

“The U.S. has realized an outstanding return on investment from its updated Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA) with Greece,” said Endy Zemenides, Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council. “Alexandroupolis in particular has become one of the key assets for NATO and Western security since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.”

“The NDAA Amendment authored by Representative Meng and supported by the Hellenic caucus is critical because it allows Congress and the public to see exactly how the MDCA has advanced our national security and our alliances, and where the room for growth is,”concluded Zemenides.

Human Genes Can Be Controlled With Electricity, Study Reveals

Abdul Moeed
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Human Genes Can Be Controlled With Electricity, Study Reveals
Human Genes Controlled with Electricity
Using direct current technology, human genes can be controlled with electricity. Credit: Caroline Davis2010 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

A recent study conducted by ETH Zürich in Switzerland introduces the possibility of advanced wearable gadgets (possibly with some implants and genetic modifications) directly improving our well-being.

The Swiss researchers developed an innovative technology that utilized gentle electrical pulses to stimulate insulin production in mice with human-like pancreatic tissues.

They refer to it as an ‘electrogenetic’ interface, which has the potential to activate specific genes when our bodies need assistance.

In their published paper, the researchers state that wearable electronic devices are increasingly becoming essential in collecting people’s health information for personalized medical interventions.

Yet, wearable devices currently cannot directly facilitate gene-based treatments due to the absence of a direct electrogenetic interface. However, in this study, the researchers aim to fill this gap by introducing the missing link.

Use of direct current (DC) to stimulate insulin production

Stimulating insulin production directly could offer significant benefits to individuals with diabetes, particularly those with type 1 diabetes. In this research, scientists implanted human pancreatic cells into mice afflicted with type 1 diabetes.

They then employed a direct current generated from acupuncture needles to stimulate these cells.

The team calls it the Direct Current (DC)-actuated Regulation Technology, or simply DART. Moreover, DART combines the digital technology of our gadgets with the analog technology of our biological bodies, according to the researchers.

The electricity produced non-harmful amounts of reactive oxygen species, which are energetic molecules. When controlled properly, these molecules can initiate a process that activates engineered cells, responding to chemical changes.

By modifying the regulation of the cell’s DNA through the manipulation of their epigenetic ‘on/off switch’ molecules, this approach holds the potential to aid in various conditions influenced by genetics.

DART could undo some of the gene expression changes

When we are born, we inherit a specific set of genes, and although these genetic codes generally stay the same throughout our lives, the activation or expression of these genes can vary as we age and alter our lifestyles.

DART offers a potential way to reverse some of these changes, providing a means to undo certain shifts in gene expression.

Using this method, the researchers succeeded in restoring the blood sugar levels of diabetic mice to a normal range. While we are far from having a Fitbit-like device that can manage diabetes, this achievement serves as an exciting proof of concept.

One of the many challenges ahead involves implementing this technology in small devices. The promising aspect is that DART requires minimal power, as it can operate for up to five years with just three AA batteries, while electric signals are applied only once a day.

Scientists Discover Fossils of the Heaviest Animal on Planet Earth

Nisha Zahid
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Scientists Discover Fossils of the Heaviest Animal on Planet Earth
Fossils of the heaviest animal, Perucetus colossus, were unearthed in Peru and compared with the size of a blue whale.
Fossils of the heaviest animal, Perucetus colossus, were unearthed in Peru and compared with the size of a blue whale. Credit: Lundur39 / Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

A remarkable discovery has been made by scientists, uncovering a potential contender for the fossils of the heaviest animal known on Earth. This extraordinary creature is an ancient whale that no longer exists today, and it is estimated to have weighed nearly 200 tonnes, which is quite astounding!

According to experts, only a few of the largest blue whales might have come close to matching the sheer weight of this ancient whale. The remains of this colossal creature were found in the southern desert of Peru, leading to its name, Perucetus colossus.

By analyzing the sediments surrounding the fossilized bones, scientists have determined that this majestic whale roamed the Earth approximately 39 million years ago, making it an incredibly ancient and significant find.

Interestingly, these fossils were actually discovered 13 years ago. Still, due to their massive size and unique characteristics, it took an additional three years to transport them to Lima, the capital of Peru.

Since then, they have been under thorough examination and study by a team led by the esteemed paleontologist Dr. Mario Urbina, alongside the contributions of Dr. Eli Amson.

Structure of the bones discovered

The scientists managed to recover eighteen bones from the remains of the marine mammal, an early type of whale known as a basilosaurid. Among these bones were 13 vertebrae, four ribs, and a portion of a hip bone.

Although the bones were fragmented and quite ancient, the experts were still able to gain significant insights into the creature’s characteristics.

Notably, they observed that the bones had a remarkably high density due to a process called osteosclerosis, where inner cavities were filled. Additionally, the bones were unusually large, featuring extra growth on their outer surfaces, a phenomenon known as pachyostosis.

Interestingly, the team clarified that these features were not signs of any disease or ailment. Instead, they were adaptations that enabled the large whale to control its buoyancy effectively while searching for food in shallow waters.

Similar bone features are observed in present-day manatees, also known as sea cows, which inhabit coastal areas in specific regions of the world.

Dr. Rebecca Bennion, a co-worker from the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels, expressed her astonishment, “Each vertebra weighs over 100kg, which is just completely mind-blowing.”

“It took several men to shift them out into the middle of the floor in the museum for me to do some 3D scanning. The team that drilled into the centre of some of these vertebrae to work out the bone density – the bone was so dense, it broke the drill on the first attempt.”

Reconstruction of the body shape

When scientists are faced with the challenge of reconstructing the body shape and mass of an extinct species, they rely on models and knowledge from comparable living creatures’ biology.

In the case of Perucetus, it is estimated that its length would have been around 17 to 20 meters, which is not extraordinary for such a creature. However, the sheer bone mass alone would have ranged from 5.3 to 7.6 tonnes.

Once you factor in the organs, muscles, and blubber, the estimated weight could vary significantly, ranging anywhere from 85 tonnes to an astonishing 320 tonnes, depending on the assumptions made in the calculations.

Dr. Amson, who serves as a curator at Germany’s State Museum of Natural History Stuttgart, considers a median estimate of 180 tonnes for Perucetus, the newly discovered ancient whale.

Interestingly, the largest blue whales ever recorded during the era of commercial exploitation were also in this size range as fossils of the heaviest animal. Dr. Amson compared Perucetus to the blue whale, saying that they are in the same ballpark in terms of weight.

He further explained that the estimated weight of 180 tonnes is not indicative of our individual specimen being exceptionally large or small.

Instead, it likely represents the typical size within the general population of these ancient whales. It’s essential to note that the median estimate of 180 tonnes is already at the upper end of what blue whales can typically weigh.

Blue whale as a point of comparison

As part of their investigations, the research team used a blue whale as a point of comparison, and it’s likely to be familiar to those who have visited the Natural History Museum in London.

Affectionately known as “Hope,” this blue whale’s skeleton was a prominent exhibit at the museum, hanging gracefully from the ceiling in the main hall since 2017.

Before being showcased, the skeleton underwent meticulous scanning and detailed description, turning it into a valuable data resource for scientists worldwide.

This comprehensive data on the skeleton of “Hope” has proven to be incredibly important for researchers in their studies and analyses.

Perucetus, in its living state, would have had a skeletal mass two to three times greater than that of Hope, despite the London blue whale being around five meters longer.

Richard Sabin, the curator of marine mammals at the Natural History Museum (NHM), expressed great excitement over the discovery of Perucetus and is keen to showcase some aspects of it in London.

He said, “We took the time to digitise Hope – to measure not just the weight of the bones but their shape as well, and our whale has now become something of a touchstone for people.”

He further said, “We don’t get hung up on labels – like ‘which was the largest specimen?’ – because we know science at some point will always come along with new data. What’s amazing about Perucetus is that it demonstrated so much mass some 30 million-plus years ago when we thought gigantism occurred in whales only 4.5 million years ago.”

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