May 6, 2016 By Michael Florio
An Astoria street will soon pay tribute to the founder of a Greek television channel.
The block of 31st Avenue between Steinway Street and 41st Street will be called “Demetris Kastanas Way” to honor the founder of National Greek Television, the first privately owned Greek channel in the U.S.
Local officials will host a street naming ceremony on Saturday at 1 p.m. at the intersection of Steinway Street and 31st Avenue.
Kastanas passed away in January 2013.
“Demetris Kastanas helped promote Hellenism and Democratic values throughout his life,” Council Member Costa Constantinides said. “We honor him because he served as a great example of civic engagement.”
“As the founder of the first Greek-language channel, he made news and entertainment accessible to Greek-Americans throughout our city and our country,” Constantinides added. “We are proud to commemorate Kastanas’ contribution to our city with this street co-naming.”
Kastanas’ family members and Assembly Member Aravella Simotas will join Constantinides tomorrow afternoon.
The City Council approved “Demetris Kastanas Way” along with names for about 40 other thoroughfares and public places in February.
