CHARLOTTE — Members of Charlotte's Greek community are reacting to the country's financial struggles, which seem to get worse by the day.
Many gather at the Mad Greek restaurant in SouthEnd to play backgammon and talk about what's happening in the world. Lately, the talk has been about troubles back home.
"The system is corrupt, only for the elite," Gus Georgoulias said.
Over the weekend Greek voters declined austerity measures, basically tough rules aimed at reducing the countries debt in exchange for more emergency loans.
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"Whatever happens from here out there is no-win in this situation," said Father Angelo Artemis at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.
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He said it may signal an end to parts of the Greek lifestyle.
The country is known for early retirements, generous pensions and a 25 percent unemployment rate.
"A lot will have to change. Greeks like to live life to the fullest, but as Americans know you have to pay the bills," Artemis said.
The bills keep mounting with no end in sight. While Greece's finances are in a shambles, many hope it doesn't reflect on the people ... who call it home.
"Greeks are very successful anywhere they go," Georgoulias said. "They are hardworking, smart and honest."
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