New York, NY - Governor George E. Pataki graciously received His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in America, yesterday at his New York City office. Joining in the official welcome was Lt. Governor Mary Donohue.

The cordial informal meeting was an opportunity to get to know one another and discuss areas of mutual concern in the state of New York and the United States. Governor Pataki presented His Eminence with a Crystal Apple symbolizing New York and, in closing, indicated that St. Basil Academy in Garrison was close to his home. The Archbishop immediately invited the Governor and his family to join him in a visit to the Academy in the near future.

A brief press conference was held following the private meeting.