HONORING THE LEGACY OF KOPI SOTIROPULOS

HONORING THE LEGACY OF KOPI SOTIROPULOS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 58 (Friday, March 27, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 58 (Friday, March 27, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E287] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LEGACY OF KOPI SOTIROPULOS ______ HON. JIM COSTA of california in the house of representatives Friday, March 27, 2026 Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today. along with my colleagues, Representatives Vince Fong and David Valadao, to recognize and honor Kopi Sotiropulos upon his retirement after decades of service as weather reporter for KMPH-FOX26 and host of Great Day. Kopi's story reflects the promise of the American Dream. Born in Peloponnese Peninsula of Greece, he immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age and settled in Fresno, California. Arriving with knowing little English, Kopi quickly embraced his new community with determination, humor, and a love for learning. He attended Fremont Elementary School, Hamilton Junior High School, and Fresno High School, where he became actively involved in school life and served as Student Body Vice President. Kopi later pursued his passion for communications at San Fransico State University, where he majored in broadcasting. In October of 1971, Kopi began his professional career with KMPH-TV 26 in Visalia as a commercial copywriter at the station's launch. Over the next several years, he wrote, produced, filmed, edited, and performed in numerous commercials and promotional segments, while also hosting the popular program Dialing for Dollars, and quickly becoming a recognizable personality in Central Valley broadcasting. Kopi later spent a decade in Hollywood pursuing his passion for acting. appearing in film and television alongside notable performers such as Eddie Murphy, Michael Keaton, Mary Tyler Moore, Goldie Hawn, and David Letterman. During this time, he worked on a wide range of television productions including The Incredible Hulk, Perfect Strangers, Knight Rider, General Hospital, and Days of Our Lives. These experiences further showcased his versatility and talent in entertainment and broadcasting. After 10 years in Los Angeles, Kopi and his wife Elaine returned to Fresno to raise their family, including their children Anastasis and Vasili. In 1992, Kopi became weatherman for KMPH Fox 26's Ten O'clock News, a role in which he became a familiar and trusted figure to viewers throughout the San Joaquin Valley. In 2003, Kopi helped launch KMPH's morning show Great Day which became a fan favorite. Alongside his co-host, Kim Stephens, he introduced the show's ``exclusive 10-day forecast'', often featuring local residents. For decades, his work has informed, entertained, and brought communities together across the Central Valley. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kopi Sotiropulos for his decades of distinguished service in broadcasting, dedication to his craft, and his enduring commitment to the Central Valley.