Pan Gregorian Metro Group with Mr. Paul Kotrotsios (5th from left).

Pan Gregorian Enterprises both with administrators

“A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties,” said Harry s. Truman, former president of the United States of America. The 22^nd Annual Hermes International Expo promoting trade relations locally, regionally, nationally and internationally created a new gateway for trade in New York and Atlantic City. Exhibitors and sponsors have committed themselves for a rendezvous in 2014.  Hermes International Expo again proved it is the platform assisting local and international businesses in penetrating the American Ethnic market, primarily through the Greek American business community of 2.5 million people.
The 2013 Hermes Expo that founder Paul Kotrotsios says is “Your Key to Success” concentrated on a Trade Show, business networking and international seminars. It was a threefold event: the Taste of Greece, kick off social, April 11^th, at the Press & Communications Office, Permanent Mission of Greece to the UN, 305 East 47th Street, 2nd FL, New York; international and medical seminars, Saturday, April 13^th, at the Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Resort in Atlantic City, New Jersey and the Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and Federation of Hellenic-American Educators workshop and awards at the April 13^th Gala dinner dance at the previous location..

The “Taste of Greece”, April 11^th, kick off social was a resounding success. All enjoyed Greek appetizers and wines first hand representing Greek products on the American market. Eighty-five percent of participants were from U.S. businessmen seeking commercial ties with Greece. Fifteen percent present were Greek-Americans. Dionisis and Panagiotis Panagiotopoulos brought products from 22 businesses of the Nomos Elias (State of Elias).  Nikos Kipouros of Serres, Greece and Sam Katechis exhibited wines. All three exhibitors, described their products, and networked, creating new opportunities for their businesses. The B to B meetings (business to business meetings), earlier in the day, aided exhibitors and sponsors seeking an expanded market.

Panagiotopoulos Roof and Tiles Company exhibit.

On April 13, in Atlantic City, the dynamic education seminar the: “Eurozone Crisis and How Does it Affect Tourism on Both Sides of the Atlantic” was presented by the Honorable Aris Melissaratos, Event Chairman of the Business Forum: Senior Adviser to the President at JHU, former Secretary of Economic Development State of Maryland, and author of the new book “Prosperity through Innovation:  Technology and America’s Role in the 21st Century Global Economy,”A public presentation by the Federation of the Hellenic Medical Societies, focused on “Medical Advice for a Healthy Life”. Other outstanding speakers in workshops included: Dr. George Tsetsekos, Dean Emeritus of LeBow College of Business of Drexel University; Robert Ernest Andrews, Democratic representative of  New Jersey’s 1st congressional district; Kostas Alexakis, businessman; Nikos Dermoutzidis, esquire, moderator of the panel discussion on the unique “Eurozone Crisis and How Does it Affect Tourism on Both Sides of the Atlantic”; Les Vail, Gloucester County business leader and Janet Kolokithas, International Program Manager of Pennsylvania’s Center for Trade Development.

Important topics concerning the growth of Modern Greek language programs were debated at the Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and Federation of Hellenic-American Educators workshop. Stella Kokolis, workshop moderator and President of the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers and the World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) Education Committee for the US region said, “There is a need for an improved cooperative effort among educators. Social networking, the use of computerized education materials and the creation of electronic learning centers will enhance the learning of Modern Greek language and culture. We must be united to solidify Greek education.”

“We are honored to participate in the 2013 Hermes Expo International,” said Dr. Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus. “We believe in the strengthening, development and implementation of preschool programs where Greek language and culture is taught through play, song, reading and writing. Paul Kotrotsios said, “Congratulations to the Federation of Hellenic Teachers in the USA for honoring a group of educators and outstanding Greek School graduates at the 22^nd Hermes Expo. Gala. They have distinguished themselves in their profession. Their devotion to the Hellenic principles and ideals is exceptional.”

Hermes Expo encouraged the young to attend the “Professional Growth & Mentor Conference”. They obtained valuable career advice from professionals attending from across the nation. The “Professional Growth and Mentor Conference” is also a great social and networking platform offering peers the opportunity to exchange ideas and build friendships.

The main purpose of the Trade Show was to present the exhibitors’ products. Hermes Expo introduced businessmen to an advanced network of business seminars and investment symposiums. The Gala honored exceptional persons who have shaped our lives. “For twenty-two years, our goal has been to stimulate the growth of the Greek-American business network,” said Paul Kotrotsios. “We have encouraged the mainstream American community to establish business ties with Greece and the South Eastern countries. Get involved, explore, discover and connect is our message. Hermes Expo, business interests and institutions will join forces to build a strong 2014 economic future. We sincerely thank the Sponsors, Contributors, Exhibitors and Visitors for their continuous support.” For more information, visit info@hermesexpo.com.

Panagiotopoulos exhibit.

Investors Bank Nikos Kostopoulos exhibit

Dr. Despina Siolas presented with award by distinguished persons.

Dr Despina Siolas, MD/PhD of Bayside and Mattituck, New York was honored at the 2013 Hermes Expo Dinner on April 13. Stella Kokolis,,President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus Greek Teachers Association presented her with the Aien AristeveinAward.  “Ever To Excel” is a phrase delivered from the sixth book of Homer‘s Iliad (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ever_to_Excel‎), in which it is used in a speech Glaucus delivers to Diomedes.

The Honor states, “This, the “Aien Aristevein” Award is bestowed upon Dr. Despina Siolas for your high achievements in your life and for your ability to become a model to others and ensure them that the Hellenic cultural heritage and language are the cornerstones of your professional success. The Greek-American teachers of the Greek schools that you have attended and Everyone in the Greek-American community are standing today in front of you with pride and honor.”

Siolas expressed her sincere appreciation saying, “Thank you for this unique honor. I am a fourth generation Greek American from Tripolis, Arcadia, Chios, Limnos and Asia Minor.I pledge to uphold the high purposes of Hellenism. I will be true to the principles for which it stands. I will be loyal to my community and country and will maintain and encourage high standards of character, service and leadership.”

She is currently in a Medical Oncology fellowship at New York University Langone Medical Center. Siolas completed a Research Track/Internal Medicine residency at the same center. Her mentor is Dr. Rany Condos, Associate Professor, NYU Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Division. Siolas was awarded the prestigious E-Trade Financial scholarship of the Hellenic Medical Society of New York, in 2010 for her performance in medical school at Stony Brook University.

In addition to her MD degree, she is the recipient of a Doctor of Philosophy in Genetics from the State University of New York at Stony Brook for studies she conducted in the lab of Dr. Greg Hannon, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professor, at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. The title of her dissertation is, RNA Barcode Screens as a Tool for Discovering Gene Function. This research showed that small RNA hairpins could be used for aiding cancer studies.
Siolas was awarded her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from St. John’s University with summa cum laude honors in 2001. She was the first student in the history of St. John’s University to be accepted in the Medical Scientist Training Program of Stony Brook University. Her mentor at St. John’s University was Rev. Robert Stephanopoulos, Ph.D., former Dean of the Holy Trinity Cathedral of the Greek Archdiocese of America and adjunct faculty of Theology at St. John’s University. St. John’s University former Dean Salvatore Spizziri, a descendent of Bari, Southern Italy (where the bones of St. Nicholas of Myra are interned) encouraged her to pursue a medical career. His guidance and encouragement for her entire undergraduate years shaped her future medical career.
Dr. Shirley Strum Kenny, President of Stony Brook University, in the 2005-2006 issue of the Graduate Student Achievements (GSA), congratulated Siolas and her thesis adviser Dr. Hannon for their federally funded Breast Cancer Research Program Idea Award. This award of $500,000 was the largest given to a graduate student in 2006. She has presented papers at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) meetings and was a student member of the Physician Council for Long Range Planning of the American Medical Association (AMA).  Siolas is currently a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncologists and plans on pursuing pancreatic cancer research for the remainder of her fellowship.

Dr. Despina Siolas (left) with Dr. Spiro Spireas, Dr. Emily Spireas, Mrs. Hasapidis and granddaughter.

Ismini Moshopoulos of Whitestone, New York, achieved distinction in May 2013 by passing all four parts of the CPA exam in eight months. She was awarded a Masters of Science degree in Accounting with honors from St. John’s University in May 2012. Miss Moshopoulos was awarded a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting with a 3.6 G.P.A. from the same University in December 2010. The scholar was the recipient of the 2010 Athanasiades Cultural Foundation scholarship for excellence in the study of Modern Greek. She is Office Manager of Laterna Restaurant and Catering in Bayside, New York.

Epitaphios

The United States was traumatized by 9/11 and by the April 15th, 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Can anyone feel safe in an urban event? The 114th New York City Police Precinct conducted an exceptional police effort in protecting thousands of Greek Orthodox worshipers on Good Friday, May 3rd.  The Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Orthodox Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou, Sts. Catherine and George Church and St. Markella Epitaphios (Holy Tomb) moved peacefully through Astoria under the vigilant eyes of police and auxiliaries.

I attended the deeply moving St. Irene’s Epitaphios Procession from 23rd Ave in front of St. Irene Chrysovalantou Monastery, along 31st St to Ditmars, ending at St. Irene’s Church. Cars attempted to interrupt the procession and cross police barriers. The NYPD 114th Precinct kept order and did not allow penetration of the police lines. I was totally amazed by the order and safety. One participant said, “We want to worship our Good Friday service to show we are dedicated to our Greek Orthodox faith.” And that they did. Thousands from New York City, New Jersey and Long Island came to support their beloved monastery. Many parishioners expressed deep love for the founder of their monastery.

The worshipers entered with three generations of their family. Well-dressed worshipers proceeded in order to venerate the Epitaphios, while V. Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis, Abbot, anointed their hands with cologne. I personally never witnessed this ceremony before. “His Grace is anointing our hands as Magdalini (Mary Magdalene) did the body of Christ,” explained Dr. Vasia Filiotis, Principal of St. Irene Chrysovalantou School and President of the Prometheus Greek Teachers Association. My gaze on old icons from the 1960’s with silver overlay, as the icons from Ieron Parthenon St. Constantine and Helen Monastery in Chios, impressed me. I saw a never-ending stream of worshipers for over an hour. Children holding yiayia and papou’s hands kissed the Epitaphios with sincerity. Images of my Greek speaking family with yiayia and papou came to my memory. A time of deep religious faith with belief in “one’s church, right or wrong.”and Orthodoxy perpetuating Hellenism lost on the shores of Asia Minor. The gift of St. Irene’s Monastery on Good Friday gave these children a precious memory of worshiping Christ with their beloved, Greek speaking grandparents.

V. Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis, Abbot.

The Epitaphios Procession, quiet, orderly, with young and hold holding banners fanaria (six foot lanterns, flowing white ribbons preceded the Epitaphios. Manolis Kouroupakis on his Good Friday Hellas FM radio program said “Lefkos Pyrgos on the corner of 23rd Ave. and 31st. St. is where I will be watching all three churches Epitaphios Procession.” As we were passing, the Café was packed with standing room only.”

I saw U.N. diplomat Georgia Filiotis outside. “We must keep up with St. Irene’s Epitaphios. We will pass under the Epitaphios at the church’s entrance. Now we will see the Thyranixia (Opening of the Doors).” The Doors would not open until a young man, called Thanasi, would carry the eight foot cross to entrance. A Byzantine hymn was chanted saying “Open the doors to Jesus Christ (basically).”  Thanasis Dhamoon is an Indian who married his college sweetheart, Sophia. He was given the distinct honor of standing next to Abbot Ierotheos during the Lamentations and holding the Cross. “I was in the military,” he said. “I served in Afghanistan.”

Thanasis Dhamoon carrying 8 foot cross in Procession.

His maturity and deep religious faith reflect his wartime experiences. The trend in New York City is mixed marriages with Latinos, Hindus and Moslems. St. Irene’s welcomes all. “Interfaith marriage is a positive, spreading Greek culture,” said Art Demopoulos of ODYSSEY magazine at Hermes International Expo 2013. “It is a positive…. The Greek American experience is assimilation with retention of Greek identity.” Orthodoxy is a unifying factor.

 Mike Marounas, of Queens and the Transfiguration Church in Mattituck, L.I. participated in the Epitaphios Procession with his wife, young son and koumbaro George Fuiaxis.”I want my son to experience Greek Orthodoxy in an urban environment.”

“Tonight we hold on to our Greek Orthodox faith in Astoria among multi-ethnic communities,” said Abbot Ierotheos.  “Before a multitude of diverse people, we showed our commitment to our faith. Only the Church is our refuge, holding on to Greek Orthodoxy.” Thousands marched in Astoria, with the help of the NYPD 114th Precinct, to hold on to their right of freedom of religion.

For more information, contact The V. Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis, Abbot at The Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Orthodox Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou, 36-07 23rd Avenue, Astoria, NY 11105-1916, Telephone: (718) 626-6225, Facsimile: (718) 626-7669 and E-mail: Sacred Patriarchal Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou

Epitaphios Procession

Epitaphios Procession

 

The Abbot anointing the hands of Educator Vasia Filiotis.

The Epitaphios at the Thyranixia (Opening of the Doors).

Society of Epirotes “Anagenesis” and the Ladies’ auxiliary “Souliotisses.

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) celebrated International Museum Day on May 18^th, 2013.  Museums display and protect the “Memory of the World”, sharing a common vision of safeguarding heritage for the benefit of society. “We celebrated International Museum Day on Saturday, May 18 by having the community visit the Heritage Museum of Epirus between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m,” explained Chrisoula Zikopoulos, Director of the Heritage Museum of Epirus. “Founded in 2003 under the auspices of the Society of Epirotes “Anagenesis” and the Ladies’ Auxiliary “Souliotisses,” the Heritage Museum of Epirus is the only functioning Greek Heritage Museum in the New York metropolitan area. We encourage all to explore the museum’s rich collection of loom-woven textiles, traditional clothing, hand-crafted jewelry, agricultural and household tools and photographs.”

Director Zikopoulos said “The museum is located in the heart of the Greek community of Astoria, Queens. It is dedicated to preserving the culture and cultural traditions of Epirus, Greece. We are making Hellenic heritage accessible in ways that enrich present and future generations through exhibitions and public programs. I took over as Director two months ago. We must open the museum to the public. This is our gift to our children. I pledge to bring our children to our pride, our treasure, the Heritage Museum of Epirus. No one has what we have. We recently celebrated the one hundred year anniversary of the liberation of Yiannina in 1913.” The museum is located on the third floor of the Epirotan Cultural Center at 2514 Broadway (between. 29th St. & Crescent St.) in Astoria.  It is conveniently located three blocks from the Broadway stop on the N and Q subway lines.

Mr. Christos Kosovitsas is the Museum’s founder and Director Emeritus. In his welcome address, he said “the idea of a museum was born at a general meeting. We have a tradition that Odysseus had come to the Oracle of Dodoni to take prophecies regarding his return to Ithaca. We were helped by other organizations to make our dream a reality.”

The shrine of Dodona was regarded as the oldest Hellenic oracle, possibly dating to the second millennium BCE according to Herodotus. Situated in a remote region away from the main Greek poleis, it was considered second only to the oracle of Delphi in prestige. Priestesses and priests in the sacred grove interpreted the rustling of the oak (or beech) leaves to determine the correct actions to be taken. Aristotle considered the region around Dodona to have been part of Hellas and the region where the Hellenes originated.^[2] The oracle was first under the control of the Thesprotians before it passed into the hands of the Molossians.^[3] It remained an important religious sanctuary until the rise of Christianity during the Late Roman era. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodona).

Prominent persons attended including : Evangelos Kyriakopoulos of the Greek Consulate; Samouel Zisis, Greece Trade Attaché, Chrysostomos Dimou, President and Chairman of World Council Epirotes; Efthemios Pappas, President of Anagenesis; Persey Kouloumbinis; Eva Kantlis; International Artist Marianthi Raptis. George Lolis, Treasurer of the Society of Epirotes “Anagenesis”, said “we are Epirotans who are proud of our heritage. We want to show the next generation where we come from and our ethos.” Mr. Paul Kotrotsios, publisher of Hellenic News of America and Hermes International Expo believes “it is a great honor to be at this celebration. We are encouraging all youth, groups, organizations and Phil-Hellenes to come and see our unique collection of Epirus.  Today, we have the donors of the museum’s exhibits. I am here to help make the Epirus Museum a meeting place for Hellenic culture. The first Greeks, the ‘Elli’, came from Epirus.” According to the ancient Greek historian Strabo, Epirus was inhabited by fourteen Greek-speaking tribes. They expanded out of this area into mainland Greece and the Peloponesse around the 12th century B.C.

Mr. Kotrotsios told me that my name, Tsounis, is a two syllabus name, characteristic of Epirotan family. It is probably true since the first Greeks came from Epirus. The Encyclopedia Britannica states “In the Neolithic period Epirus was populated by seafarers along the coast and by shepherds and hunters from the southwestern Balkans who brought with them the Greek language. These people buried their leaders in large mounds containing shaft graves. Similar burial chambers were subsequently used by the Mycenaean civilization, suggesting that the founders of Mycenae may have come from Epirus and central Albania,” (http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/190156/Epirus).

Community leaders who are primary sources were present. “Under my leadership we bought the building that was one floor,” recalled President of Anagenesis Efthemios Pappas. “In 1988, we completed the second floor that houses the Epirus Museum. All members and friends lent the Syllogos (Society of Epirotes “Anagenesis”) five thousand each. We did not have to take a five hundred thousand dollar mortgage because of everyone’s generosity. We repaid all donors. We had two wonderful tenants who helped us cover our expenses, motivating us to create our Museum. We invite all to come and call us at 718 274-3753 and email at anagenesis@verizon.net.

Chrysostomos Dimou, President and Chairman of the World Council of Epirotes Abroad, said “we are the people who make the first steps. We want to give back to our Patritha (country). Our youth must get involved. This museum is important to us. Our traditions are kept alive. We walk jointly with the University of Yiannina. Epirus has been hit hard by the economic crisis in Greece.” Mrs. Eva Kantlis, the backbone of the Ladies’ Auxiliary “Souliotisses,” believes “Epirotes are straight, trust worthy. They have logic and honesty of the highest degree.” Mr. Takis Zikopoulos, my teacher from St. Demetrios Parochial School in Astoria and his late brothers epitomize these qualities.

Eleni Lolis is a Yianniotisa from Yiannina. “I have been here since 1968,” she recalled. “As President of the Ladies’ Auxiliary ‘Souliotisses’, we helped organize the Museum. It is our joy to show our heritage. We invite Epirotans and friends to come.” Their stand at Souli was a true tale of mythic proportions. Revolution was raging all over Greece. Americans were impressed by the courageous women of Souli. They fought war like men. Many compared them with the Amazons of Greek mythology. When the Souliotisses realized their village was lost, they danced the immortal “Horos tou Zalongou”. Over 50 women, holding their children in their arms, danced on the cliff at Zalongo. One by one, reaching the leading side of the circle dance, they threw themselves over the cliff. The story of the mass suicide at Zalongo soon became known in the whole region and throughout Europe. This song of freedom is still remembered today. (http://fotios.org/files/fotios.cc/papers/articles/greece_contingency/part3.htm)

Museum Curator Anna Konstatatos described the wedding outfits, Epirotan clothes and jewelry. “Epirus has a harsh terrain, with mountains,” she explained. “There were no factories. Life was agricultural. The donors brought artifacts of their agricultural background.” Epirus for the Greeks represented the “epitome” of a hardy, often inhospitable land that was unsuited for cultivation. Hard labor was needed to yield a livelihood. It was “eýandros”, the land of hardy, good men. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epirus).  Epirus produced a large percentage of immigrants who amassed large fortunes. They gifted their wealth to the Greek nation either to fund the armed struggle against the Ottomans or to provide valuable structure for the creation of a new State. Epirotan Benefactors rebuilt Greece.

These Benefactors included the following persons: Evangelos Zappas rebuilt the Panathenean Stadium and the Zappeion mansion; Arsakis, who also served as foreign minister and prime minister of Romania, built a women’s college on Panepistimiou, the “Arsakeion”; Tositsas built the Athens Polytechnic, scene of the famous uprising and the Eye Hospital; George Stavrou founded and directed the National Bank of Greece; the Zosimades brothers built the Athens Numismatic Museum; Evangelos Averoff, donated moneys towards the refurbishment of the Panathenaean Stadium, built the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, the military academy, a jail, horticultural schools in Larissa, the Athens Odeon and most famously, the warship Georgios Averoff, which saw service during the First World War, created schools, hospitals and churches for the Greek community of Alexandria, Egypt and Baron Sinas built the Athens Astronomical Observatory. Their financial funding was astronomical. Most of these institutions are in operation today, because of the interest accumulated from the original cash deposit (http://diatribe-column.blogspot.com/2009/01/benefactors.html). The Society of Epirotes “Anagenesis” and the Ladies’ Auxiliary “Souliotisses,” are continuing this tradition of giving back to society through the Heritage Museum of Epirus.

Museum Donors Sophia and Pavlos Nikolos

Museum Donors Sophia and Pavlos Nikolos were present. “We are from a village outside of Yiannina,” Mrs. Nikolos said. “I donated my Mother’s wedding dress, my brother, Evangelos Roussis’ geleko (vest), my mother-in-law’s and mother’s belt and the prosphoro stamp (holy bread stamp). It is an honor to see my family traditional clothes and personal possessions in a museum.” Mr. Pavlos pointed out his family’s brass candili (Lantern) at the Center’s fireplace. “We did not have electricity,” he explained. “We read under the light of the candili. I brought it to America with me, remembering childhood memories. We have a portrait of His All Holiness Patriarch Athenagoras, who helped Epirus and the United States.” A significant amount of the museum pieces were donated by the Nikolos family, making them one of the primary donors.

The following are shown in many of the exhibits: costumes from Yiannina, Souli and Pogoni; the Chapraki decorative piece and costume from; decorative belts from 1850; handmade jewelry that include brooches, pins, bracelets and earrings; agricultural and shepherding tools; replica of Ali Pasha’s pipe; cooking utensils and other items form everyday folk art.

Exhibit of agrarian life.

Marianthi Raptis, international Epirotan artist, is president of the Dolou Pogoniou Society of Epirus. “On Sunday, May 19^th, we will have an artoclasia (holy bread blessing) at Holy Cross Church of Whitestone in memory of Agios Christoforou, the patron of our village,” she said. Traditions are kept alive in the USA by Epirotan Societies.

A modern Epirotan hero is Vasilis Bollanos, the Mayor of Himara, of the Greek speaking region of Northern Epirus, Albania. A low key person, Mayor Bollanos has put his life on the line representing freedom in the former Iron Curtain country. Electrician Billy Litos, a Northern Epirus immigrant, views him as a national hero of Hellenism. “Being a hero is staying in a hostile political area and championing the right to practice one’s Hellenic culture, Greek language and Greek Orthodox religion,” he said. “Vasilis Bollanos is that man.”

Pyrros Dimas, “the Lion of Himare” is the Greek weight-lifting athlete who will go down in history as the only person to be three times Olympic champion and three times World Champion. Pyrros Dimas has carved his own legend. He is famous for his 1992 summer Olympic victory, when he shouted “Gia tin Ellada” (For Greece).  The Olympian is named after the legendary King Pyrrhus of Epirus. Pyrrhos of Epirus, who lived from 319 B.C.-272 BC, was a Greek general and statesman of the Hellenistic era. He was king of the Greek tribe of Molossians. King Pyrrhos was an opponent of Rome. Some of his successful battles cost him heavy losses from which the term “Pyrrhic victory” originated.

“The Flight from Parga”, courtesy of former Benaki Museum librarian Pitsa Tsakonas.

Dionysios Tsokos oil painting, “The Flight from Parga” (1847), is on display in the National Gallery of Athens. The painting, that was obtained through the help of former Benaki librarian Pitsa Tsakonas, displays a boat navigated by a maritime captain in a turbulent sea. The boat has average persons: despondent young, middle age and old in Greek dress, with a priest holding an icon and cross. Many Americans are descendants of refugees fleeing their homes with few belongings. This oil painting shows the pain of Epirotes escaping their homeland with their religious faith. The Heritage Museum of Epirus expresses the universal values of love of one’s roots.

– Leaders, diplomat, professors from the University of Yiannina and Museum donors

Museum Curator Anna Konstatatos (center) described the wedding outfits to writer (left) and Director Zikopoulos (right).

Costumes of Epirotan women.

Links:

http://icom.museum/press-releases/press-release/article/launch-of-international-museum-day-2013-1/- National Museum Day

http://www.smilitimetravels.com/ancient.html – first Greeks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i23Xkm7mNKg- Souliotisses song

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Souliote_War_(1803)- Souli war.

http://www.ohfs.org/costumecollection.htm#epirotan – Male Epirotan costume

http://www.add.gr/jewel/elka/page34.htm – Epirotan jewelry.

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/485118/Pyrrhus- Pyrrhus.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epirus – Epirus

http://www.about-ioannina.gr/Dodoni_en/legends.htm – legends and traditions.

Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos, (third from left) presented with award.

Athena also referred to as Pallas Athena is the goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, just warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, arts, crafts and skills. Athena is the goddess of heroic endeavor, the virgin patroness of Athens. The Athenians founded the Parthenon on the Acropolis of her namesake city, Athens (Athena Parthenos), in her honor. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athena).

These are the qualities held by a unique person honored on  May 19 at the Grand Prospect Hall, Brooklyn, New York. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos was commended for her unique work to Hellenism and American society by the Federation of Hellenic American Educators, Greek Teachers Association Prometheus, and the Hellenic American Women’s Council (H.A.W.C.) Tri-State Region.

“Congratulations to the Pallas Athena Award Luncheon 2013 Honoree Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos for her outstanding contributions to the Greek-American Community,” said Mariyana and Paul. A biography of Mrs. Spyropoulos was printed in ODYSSEY, The World of Greece bi-monthly magazine in the winter of 2012-2013 at http://www.odyssey.gr/People/articles~1780~erika~article,

ODYSSEY writes that “For Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos art and philanthropy represent sharing oneself and are lifelong expressions of giving back to a world that provided her with a stage to reflect and share. Mrs. Spyropoulos’s art is a glimpse of a profound and meaningful world opposite the personal devastation surrounding her during the nascent stage of her life growing up in war-torn Germany. Just as the physical canvas draws on paint to form that expression, her art draws from a well spring of life experiences that date back to a time even before she was born. Her scenes convey a host of emotions and moods: romantic, playful, melancholic, panoramic to riveting in her portrayal of striking figures from an ancient past; mythical portraits of characters frozen in time, the sea and its beauty melded with myth, fantasy and color. There are also Greek themes which stem from her marriage to entrepreneur Theodore Spyropoulos. Both are striking figures worthy of capturing on the portraits she draws.

Luncheon hall.

Erika was born in Stroebitz, south of Berlin, and grew up in Kaltenkirchen, a small town north of Hamburg. She is a descendant of the mid-nineteenth-century poet and writer Theodor Storm. By the end of the second world war her talents had blossomed–her appreciation of art, music drawing, embroidery, knitting and sewing would serve her throughout her life. She then went to Hamburg to study fashion, design, architecture, and painting at the prestigious Meisterschule fuer Mode in Hamburg. Family friends in Sweden invited her to visit and stay. She met her future husband Theodore G. Spyropoulos in Sweden.

Success provided time to spend on other interests, sports, gardening, reading and painting. Erika’s work can be found in private and corporate collections throughout the U.S., Australia, Europe, and, of course, Greece. She was awarded the prestigious Bicentennial Art Award for a mural depicting the “Spirit of 1776” and her work has been featured at the Beverly Art Center, Gold Coast Art Fair, and other venues. Exhibits showcasing her work include the Southwest Area Cultural Arts Council, Australian Exhibition Center, the Treasury in Chicago, and Kourd Gallery in Athens. Erika’s works dot the Midwest States, New York and Panama. Mrs. Spyropoulos is Executive Vice President of T.G.S. Petroleum, working with her husband in philanthropic causes.

Greek School of Plato play.

The Program consisted of the following: Invocation by Father Meletios of  Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Monastery of St. Irene; Mistress of Ceremonies, Dorie Klissas; Welcoming Remarks, Mrs. Stella Kokolis: President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators; Educator Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus; Alice Halkias, Regional Director, (H.A.W.C.) Tri-State Region; Piano Classical music by Dimitra Vrosgou; Proclamations & Citations, Congressman Michael G. Grimm, New York, Hon. U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, Hon. Carolyn. B. Maloney, US Congresswoman, Hon. Michael Bloomberg, Mayor of New York; Hon. Pat Quinn, Governor Illinois, Hon. Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State, Hon. Michael Giannaris, New York State Senator, Hon. Martin J. Golden, New York State Senator, Hon. Leonidas Raptakis, Rhode Island State Senator, Hon. Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President, Hon. Vincent J. Gentile, New York City Council Member, Hon. Aravella Simotas, New York Assemblywoman and Hon. Nicole Malliotakis, New York Assemblywoman; Greetings by elected officials; Performance of students of Plato School, “Oi Nyfes”: A story of the journey of the 1920’s Greek mail-order brides at Fort Hamilton Army directed by Greek School of Plato Principal Eleftheria Ikouta; Presentation of “Pallas Athena” Award; Response by the 2013 Honoree Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos; Music & Entertainment by Konstantinos Stergioulis and Closing Remarks.

Many prominent people paid their respects to Mrs. Spyropoulos with sincerity and admiration. For a complete list of all presenters, please contact Alice Halkias Regional Director of (H.A.W.C.) Tri-State Region at ahalkias@earthlink.net.

Mr. Apostolos Zoupaniotis commends honoree.

The following excerpts are from letters in the “Pallas Athena” Journal. “Today’s event will honor the many Greek women who have made contributions to New York in everything from business to education to government and also recognize their efforts to preserve Greek heritage and history within their communities,” wrote New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. “We applaud the esteemed women of these three outstanding organizations for working to advance our city and look forward to all they will accomplish in the years to come. On behalf of all New Yorkers, congratulations to this year’s award recipient, Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos.”

“The Greek community in Chicago has long been an essential part of the city’s vibrant cultural landscape,” said Governor of Illinois Pat Quinn. “This event will serve as an excellent opportunity to celebrate and recognize the strengths and achievements of women in the Greek American community…..Erika is a renowned Chicago artist and philanthropist whose commitment to serving others is admirable. She is very deserving of this recognition. I know her good works will continue in the future.”

Mr. Spyropoulos, (left to right) Dr. John Nathanas, Mrs. Linda Kotrotsios, Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos, a supporter and Mr. Paul Kotortsios at Luncheon.

Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State affirms the previous statements by saying “Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos is recognized for her contributions and efforts on behalf of the Greek American Community, Greek culture and her loyalty to the ideals of Hellenism. She is an excellent choice.”

New York State Senator Michael N. Gianaris commends all three organizations “in promoting the professional and education interests of its members. I applaud all that your organizations have done to bring together Greek-Americans in business and contributions to our community.”

Mr. and Mrs.Ted Spyropoulos.

Aravella Simotas, New York State Assembly member said “Today’s event is a fitting tribute to our honoree, Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos, who has contributed her time and talents to the Hellenic American community and truly embodies the Hellenic spirit. Erika is a renowned artist whose work has been displayed throughout the world. She received the Bicentennial Art Award from the town of Melrose Park for her mural “Spirit of 1776”. Ms. Spyropoulos is a great source of pride for me as a Greek-American woman.”

Greece Parliament member and former Prime Minister Dora Bakogiannis, a supporter of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Prometheus Greek Teachers Association, said “we support your endeavor to keep Greek learning and the Greek schools of America alive. In these difficult times for your Mother country, Greece, please know your actions and accomplishments fill us with hope for our future. We are united and we will overcome our present difficulties as in the past.”  In my opinion, Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos is a person our youth can relate to and admire. Hellenism will not die in the face of global assimilation, because of people who have Mrs. Spyropoulos’ mindset.

Alice Halkias honored.

Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos.

The OLYMPIC WREATH was presented by Mrs. Stella Kokolis, President and Adriana Filiotis of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators; Educator Vasiliki Filiotis, President of Prometheus Greek Teachers Association and their Board of Directors. Mrs. Eleni Karageorgiou, Education Counselor of the Greek Consulate, gave her warmest regards recognizing the honoree’s contributions and loyalty to the ideals of Hellenism as well as prominent members of Greek-American Society. Mrs. Alice Halkias was recognized for her distinguished service to the Greek-American community. The Hellenic American Women’s Council (H.A.W.C.) Tri-State Region is planning a reception and luncheon to “Family, Folklore and Fate” by Mrs. Eleni Gage, author on Tuesday evening, June 25^th, 2013 at the Grand Prospect Hall. For more information, call Alice Halkias at (718) 788-0777.

Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athena
http://www.odyssey.gr/People/articles~1780~erika~article – Biography of Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos

“Character may almost be called the most effective means of persuasion,” Aristotle. A play on honor and family ties was presented in the play Nyfes, at the Pallas Athena luncheon in honor of Mrs. Erika Wilhelmine Knickmann Spyropoulos on May 19, at the Grand Prospect Hall, Brooklyn, New York.  The play was in Modern Greek. This was a story of the journey of the 1920’s Greek mail-order brides at Fort Hamilton Army. It was directed by the Greek School of Plato, Principal Eleftheria Ikouta.

The Brides (Nyfes) is a 2004 Greek film directed by Pantelis Voulgaris. The film stars Victoria Haralabidou and Damian Lewis, and the photography is by Giorgos Arvanitis. Set in 1922, it is the story of a mail order bride, one of the 700 aboard the SS King Alexander, who falls in love with an American photographer. She is bound for her new husband, in Chicago, who is on his way home to a failed marriage. The film entered the 27th Moscow International Film Festival. The film was supported by Martin Scorsese, who is credited as executive producer.

( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brides_(film).

The cast included: Katerina Kritikos; Yiannis Eugenis, Katerina Grafakos; Demetrios Zylomenos; Markella Roros; Mihalis Korfis; Stavroula Sartzetakis; Anthoula Korfis; Panagiotis Xylomenos; Maria Pondikos; Maria Gournelos; Anthoula Kritikos; sofia Lignos; Maria Marnelas and Maria Pondikos.

The heroine Niki, a seamstress heading for Chicago to marry a Greek tailor, was from the island of Efstratios opposite the Dardanellis Straits. She gave up her love for the American photographer Norman Harris to follow a code of honor. She had to save the women of her island by marrying according to family tradition, that would open the door to future marriages on her island. My late grandmother,  Catherine, wore a similar wedding gown.

A time lost but remembered nearly one hundred years later.

Scene from NYFES

writer’s grandmother 1920

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bR7jtT-ymE4- movie

Kostas Koutsoubis, MSPT.

“What nobler employment, or more valuable to the state, than that of the man who instructs the rising generation?” -  Marcus Tullius Cicero, Roman Philosopher, politician and advocate of Greek culture and ancient Sicilian autonomy. A member of the rising Greek-American generation was the key-note speaker at the 2013 St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Flushing Greek Afternoon School Commencement Service. He was a graduate of the St. Nicholas William Spyropoulos Day School. The key-note speaker exceeded everybody’s expectations. He moved ahead to be one of the superstars of the Greek-American community. The young physical therapist continues to give back to the mainstream community of New York City. He has given opportunities to college students in their quest for upward mobility. The Greek-American of Chian descent gives everyone a positive outlook with a cheerful, big smile. His practice of traditional and alternate medicine remedies has saved the lives of many. This is the profile of Mr. Kostas Koutsoubis, MSPT.

Speaker Koutsoubis in fluent Modern Greek opened his address by saying, “I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well,” said Alexander the Great…Today I share with you two stories about a pair of parents who sacrificed and dedicated their lives to their children. Thirty five years ago I learned my first prayers in St. Nicholas Church. ..Here the foundation of my religion was shaped.”

“The second story began at the William Spyropoulos Day School where I learned about Ancient Greece, classical Greek language, philosophy and the Byzantine Empire. Today we are here to perpetuate Hellenism in the next generation: you. Your graduating class persevered and obtained knowledge of Hellenism that will follow you for the rest of your life. Be proud that you have learned about the Hellenic culture that is the basis of Western civilization. Congratulations on your graduation. Your experiences and knowledge make you unique.”

“Make a habit of two things: to help; or at least to do no harm,” said Hippocrates 2,500 years ago. The same principal applies today. Our medical health care professionals are under constant attack. We are living a longer life span. Their dedication and constant learning through seminars and examinations have aided the American public in a higher quality of life. Kostas Koutsoubis embodies the ancient Greek principles he learned at St. Nichol Greek Orthodox Church of Flushing, New York.

Very Rev. Paul Palesty, protopresbyter of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Flushing congratulating key-note speaker Kosta Koutsoubis.

“We are happy to have Kostas Koutsoubis at St. Nicholas Church,” said Very Rev. Paul Palesty. “His three children are or will be part of our school system.” His office, NYPT Sports Rehabilitation is located at 44-02 Francis Lewis Blvd., #2fl in the Arcadian Building.  Kostas Koutsoubis, MSPT, is a graduate of Hofstra University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Mr. Koutsoubis holds a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Mercy College. Kalliope Katos Koutsoubis, his wife, is an educator and former New York City public school teacher. She is a graduate of Queens College. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Katos, are benefactors of the Greek-American community of Astoria. Their children are Argyro Anna, Alexander and Stephen three months. His family is the focus of his personal life. The Physical Therapist’s parents, Alexander and Argyro are long time supporters of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church of Flushing and founders of the William Spyropoulos Day School. Both sets of parents come from the island of Chios, part of ancient Ionia, birthplace of the Odyssey of Homer and the inspiration of the Athenian foundation of Western Civilization.

2013 graduation class

“The most perfect political community is one in which the middle class is in control, and outnumbers both of the other classes,” Aristotle. The “Stephen and Areti Cherpelis” Greek School of St. Nicholas Church, Flushing, New York has molded youth for generations. They are in middle class occupations in the North East. The 2013 Commencement event took place on June 8^th at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. A reception followed in the Sarantakos Hall. Over two hundred people attended.

The theme was AIEN ARISTEUEIN, or Ever to Excel. This motto has been used by a number of educational institutions. The phrase is derived from the sixth book of Homer‘s Iliad, in which it is used in a speech Glaucus delivers to Diomedes. During a battle between the Greeks and Trojans, Diomedes is impressed by the bravery of a mysterious young man and demands to know his identity. Glaucus replies: “Hippolocus begat me. I claim to be his son, and he sent me to Troy with strict instructions: Ever to excel, to do better than others, and to bring glory to your forebears, who indeed were very great … This is my ancestry; this is the blood I am proud to inherit.” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ever_to_Excel). This is exactly what is being done in this unique urban school.

The 2013 graduating class includes: George Adamou; Panagiotis Adamou; Kimon Valais; Charalambos Georgiou; Leonidas Gdissis; Constantine Drallios; George Kalantzopoulos; John Kirgiannis; Andriana Kostakis; Elias Loukissas; Themis Mihalakis; Sophia Nanas; Argyris Papagiannis; Constantine Papadopoulos; Theodora Papandoniou and Despina Blebaris; The valedictorians were Charalambos Georgiou and Kimon Valais. The salutatorian was Theodora Papandoniou. Numerous scholarships were awarded. A rich program of poetry, speeches and songs were performed. Speakers included: Very Rev. Paul Palesty, Rev. Aristidis Garinis; P.T.A. President Kalliope Kalantzopoulos; School Board President Maria Zolotas; Stephen Cherpelis, Dikaiophylax Archon ( Defender of the Faith) and Reader of the Greek Orthodox Church; William Spyropoulos Principal Athena Kromidas; Philoptohos President Mrs. Gloria Sfiroudis; Mr. and Mrs. Antonis Diamataris; Keynote speaker Kostas Koutsoubis and Mrs. Calliope Koutsoubis; 2008 graduate Eraklis Antonis Diamataris, Mr. and Mrs. Alex Koutsoubis: Mr. and Mrs. Panos Papandoniou and other prominent persons.

 The speakers presented interesting facts. “The church and school were built by many immigrants as me,” explained Dikaiophylax Archon Stephen Cherpelis. “We worked with dedication. George Tenet was a graduate of our school.” Very Rev. Paul Palesty, protopresbyter, was a graduate.  

College student and outstanding scholar informed us about the unique island his father, Antonis is from. “We most all know of our roots. We are blessed with the heritage of a unique civilization. My mother is from Cyprus. My father is from Lemnos with a myth of what the Lemnian women did to their men.” The scholar was referring to the “Curse of the Lemnian Women.” At http://www.theoi.com/Olympios/AphroditeWrath.html, “Pseudo-Apollodorus, Bibliotheca 1. 114 (trans. Aldrich) (Greek mythographer C2nd A.D.):

The Papandoniou family from Arcadia, Greece.

“Lemnos happened to have no males at the time [when the Argonauts visited the island], and was ruled by Hypsipyle, the daughter of Thoas. The reason for this was that the women of Lemnos had failed to give due honors to Aphrodite, in return for which she afflicted them with a foul odor. Whereupon their husbands took to bed women whom they captured from neighboring Thrace. For this dishonorable treatment the Lemnian women slew their fathers and husbands.”

My late father George, whose father was from the village of Pangia, opposite the island of Imbros, always said “the women rule the world.” He was referring to the Amazon society of Lemnos (http://www.myrine.at/Amazons/History.pdf ).  It is amazing what one learns at a commencement event in the Greek-American community. For more information on keynote speaker Kostas Koutsoubis address, visit, http://www.greeknewsonline.com/?p=26811; http://usa.greekreporter.com/2013/06/20/kostas-koutsoubis-speech-at-st-nicholas-greek-school/; http://www.hellenicnews.com/index.php/culture/item/593-2013-keynote-speaker-st-nicholas-of-flushing-greek-afternoon-school-kostas-koutsoubis-pt; http://www.qgazette.com/news/2013-06-19/Front_Page/2013_Keynote_Speaker_St_Nicholas_of_Flushing_Greek.html.

Pincipal George Kanellopoulos with educators Pepe Volikas, Aggeliki Agka, Antigony Vlachogiannis and Areti Giovanou

“Our 2013 students are a strong graduating class,” explained Greek Afternoon School Principal, George Kanellopoulos. “They come to learn the basis of Western Civilization, religious hymns, ancient Greek plays and the wisdom of philosophers. You must transmit Hellenism to the next generation. This responsibility is on your shoulders. Do not let the Greek language be extinguished or leave our Greek Orthodox Church.” In the face of global assimilation with persons of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds, this will be a major challenge to Greek Orthodoxy.”

“I served as president for two years and on the Board for eight years,” said PTA President Calli Kalantzopoulos. “My son, George, a 2013 graduate, has been attending Greek school for years. He will be attending Stuyvesant H.S. in the fall.” I remember Callie as a child with her parents and grandparents from Nysiros swimming on the beach of Mattituck Long Island. She is now a dynamic community leader in an urban church.

“There are more than 340 Greek afternoon and Saturday schools currently functioning in the United States with an enrollment of approximately 30,000 students. In addition, many parishes throughout the country offer evening Greek classes…. Both the day and the afternoon Greek language schools offer a program of studies that includes the teaching of Modern Greek language, Greek history and culture as well as elements of Greek Orthodox faith and worship. The day and afternoon schools operate under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and comprise the Archdiocesan School System,” according to http://www.goarch.org/archdiocese/departments/greekeducation/archdiocesanschools.

Prof. George Kanellopoulos, as he is known to many, has aided many of his students fulfil their dreams. He is unselfish, tough and a no-nonsense educator. His patience has resulted in saving of youth. A thirteen year old who was having problems in her first year of High School had her life changed when Prof. Kanellopoulos suggested hiring two tutors from Francis Lewis High School. She achieved success through his colleagues’ tutoring and their psychological support when her mother was diagnosed with cancer.

He is an immigrant from the town of Demetsana, of the province of Gortynia in the prefecture of Arcadia in the Peloponnese. The educator has worked in the shadows helping all in the global community of Queens, New York City. He is the heart of the Greek Afternoon School, guiding his staff to meet the challenges of 2013. As one instructor said doing her cross, “Thank God it is 2013 and we are still teaching Modern Greek.” The instructors are Aggeliki Agka, 2013 teacher of the year Antigony Vlachogianni, Pepi Volika and Areti Giovanou, Katerina Dimou, Spyridoula Liakonis, Panagiota Lilikanis, Maria Manousakis, Marianna Spatharas, Eleni Stavropoulou, Stefanos Stefanou and Kiriaki Christodoulou. Administrators are Constatina Passakos and Marina Kipriadis.

The school’s success is because of the unselfish dedication of Prof. Kanellopoulos and his exceptional staff, aided by the Parents Association and the school Board. The Parents and Teachers Association include:  Calliope Kalantzopoulos, President; Adriana Vlebaris, Vice-President; Kassiani Koukissas Recording Secretary; Vasiliki Chrysikos, Corresponding secretary and the dedicated members of the School Board and Parents Association.

For more information, contact “Stephen and Areti Cherpelis” Greek School of St. Nicholas Church, 196-10 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11358, Principal: Mr. George Kanellopoulos, Grades: Pre-K – 8, Enrollment: 260, Days of Operation: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thurs., Fri, Sat, School Tel: (718) 357-4260, Church Fax: (718) 357-5692

– Grigoris Maninakis & the Mikrokosmos Ensemble congratulated by Library Manager Florence Leung

Grigoris Maninakis holds a magnetic appeal bringing in standing only room crowds during the 2012-2013 concert season in the New York Greek American community. “We must have a strong showing of the Greek-American community,” said East Flushing Community Library Manager Florence Leung. One hundred persons flooded the 196-36 Northern Blvd. hall with standing room only. Grigoris Maninakis & the Mikrokosmos Ensemble presented “An Afternoon of Greek Music” on Monday afternoon, June 17^th. The group featured: Grigoris Maninakis, leader/lead vocalist;

Glafkos Kontemeniotis, keyboards; Kostas Psarros, bouzouki and Megan Gould, violin.

They came from Queens and Nassau counties, from the Greek and global communities to hear the greatest Greek Blues (Rebetica) singer of the Greek Diaspora. The Queens Library system is to be commended in presented this entertaining and educational concert free. “The Greek music is romantic,” said Irene Cheung, President of the Key Luck Club, upon hearing the translation of his songs.

– Grigoris Maninakis & the Mikrokosmos Ensemble with the audience.

What exactly did Professor Maninakis (he is a college professor) sing? “We will be singing from the 1960’s to 70’s, the Golden Age of Greek music,” he said. “I will describe anecdotes on the composers we sin. Gree3ce was given independence, but northern German music predominated. In 19223 Smyrna and Asia Minor was destroyed, with the coming of over a million refugees. These persons came from an educated, cultured class. They inspired Greek music to a higher level. In the 1940’s, Vassilis Tsitsanis, a leading Greek composer created golden melodies and is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern Rebetica (Greek Blues) Greece is the only country that put the music of noble laureates and the great poetry of Greece and the world to music.”

The music sung was of the following composers: Manos Hatzidakis known for ‘”Never on Sunday”; Manos Loizos famous for the “Evdokia’s Zeibekiko; Stavros Kouyioumtzis, creator of the haunting “To Kokkino Foustani” (The Red Dress) song and Mikis Theodorakis. An exciting CD album of the composer of “Zorba” is at the East Flushing Library for circulation to the public. The Cd title is Mikis Theodorakis “Mia Zoi Ellatha” (One Life of Greece).

Florence Leung (third from left) with the Grigoris Maninakis & the Mikrokosmos Ensemble.

“I brought all my friends,” said Venita Loras of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. “We come every year,” explained for Principal Chris Arlis of the William Spyropoulos School and former School Board President Gloria Sfiroudis. Marika and Jimmy Fotopoulos came representing the “Geros Tou Morea” chapter of the Arcadian Federation of America. Eleni Kalogeras said she “would come back next year to a Maninakis concert.” Dr. Anthony A. Galitsis, retired Director of the NYC Science Program and his wife retired principal of Region 3 L.I.C. Athena Galitsis agreed it was “a beautiful evening of music and the history of the Greek musical tradition.”

Grigoris Maninakis grew up in Limnos. “My Mother was born in Tseme (Asia Minor coast opposite Chios) and Father from Crete,” said Maninakis. He is in addition to a musician, cantor, and professor, a poet who has written songs with his poetry. In 2007, a student, George Stamboulis and a Modern Greek class I instructed, were inspired by Maninakis poem “Mia Palia Fotografia” (An Old Photograph) written to a song. They emailed him a fan letter.

The event was organized by Library Manager Florence Leung. Her effort in hosting the concert bringing Greek music into mainstream America is extraordinary. For more information, email Florence.Leung@queenslibrary.org  at the East Flushing Community Library or call 718 357-6643.

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/grigoris.maninakis- facebook

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=–eXCeiEg-k – March, Greek Heritage Month Concert with Grigoris Maninakis at The Stathakion Center.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manos_Lo%C3%AFzos- Manos Loizos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAT8mmAtDz0 – To Zeibekiko Tis Evdokias, Live 1985.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manos_Hatzidakis – Manos Hatzidakis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA-GbHAH06g – Never on Sunday.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stavros_Kouyioumtzis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WVdztB6MhE – To Kokkino Foustani.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mikis_Theodorakis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtIyAYDEEyY – Katerina, beautiful city

Arcadia, a prefecture of the Peloponnese, is thought of as a way of life, a genuine natural paradise in Western civilization. “Arcadia was a mysterious, primitive land,” said Ioannis Petropoulos, Associate Professor of Ancient Greek Literature, Democritus University of Thrace.- “The birthplace of “Lykaios Zeus” and his prehistoric predecessor, Panos (cloven-hoofed and  horned), and generally the homeland of theriomorphic divinity, such as Demeter Melaina (horse-like with serpentine hair)

Paradoxically, it was also a stable source for mercenaries from the 5th century B.C., later feeding the armies of Alexander the Great and the Venetian fleet during the Middle Ages. However, since the 3rd century B.C., the real Arcadian shepherds (who were not renowned for their literary cultivation) have been transformed into eloquent, passionate, elegant protagonists particularly for poets Theocritus and Virgil, and later for Italian, Spanish, English and French bucolic poetry, even inspiring statements by Marie Antionette and painters like Poussin and Gauguin.”

Theodora Papandoniou and parents

Two Arcadians are beginning their rise in American Society. Theodora Papandoniou, a fourteen-year-old eighth grade graduate of the Great Neck School system, was awarded the honor of Salutatorian of her 2013 graduating class from the “Stephen and Areti Cherpelis” Greek School of St. Nicholas Church, Flushing, New York. She is a daughter of Panagiotis Papandoniou and Dina Kaporis from the heartland of Arcadia, Greece. Mr. Papandoniou is an engineer/Real Estate Executive from Megalopolis. Ms. Kaporis has a Data Processing background and is from the town of Theopistos, outside of Levithi in the municipality of Gortynia, Arcadia.

“Every year we go to Greece,” said Theodora. Over fifteen members of her family came to see her receive the salutatorian award. This is the key to the survival of the Greek identity in the global community: unity and family backing in major events. They all came out in force to see the upcoming generation honored. The family is an active member Geros Tou Morea Chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation of America.

Nikki Triantafilos

Nikki Triantafilos, a twenty-two-year- old graduate of the university system in Athens, is a physical therapist. Her mother’s family is from the village of Theopistos. They are relatives of the Papandoniou/Kaporis family. “I graduated as a physical therapist in Athens,” she said. “I cannot find a job in Greece. The 2013 graduates are going to be lost in the cracks of this economic crisis. I immigrated to New York City where my family lives. Whoever has a change to leave, is acting quickly. No future in the work force of Greece. I have enrolled in a two-year program at the New York University that will give me certification in the U.S. as a physical therapist.” She is working at New York Physical Therapy in Bayside. Nikki is a cosmopolitan European, serious and focused on a career. Her determination comes from her tough background of Arcadians who know how to survive. Two young people moving ahead and overcoming challenges to succeed.

Arcadia

English: Municipalities (dimi) of Arcadia prefecture, Greece 2010:
1. Dimos Tripolis
2. Dimos Vorias Kynourias
3. Dimos Gortynias
4. Dimos Leonidiou
5. Dimos Megalopolis

Deutsch: Gemeinden (dimi) der griechischen Präfektur Arkadien 2010:
1. Dimos Tripolis
2. Dimos Vorias Kynourias
3. Dimos Gortynias
4. Dimos Leonidiou
5. Dimos Megalopolis

Links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arcadia- Arcadia, Greece.

Eighth grade graduates with clergy and staff.

The St. Irene Chrysovalantou School graduation was held on June 15. Diplomas and awards were given by the V. Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis, Abbot of the Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Orthodox Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou, Dr. Spiros Kastiftis and Dr. Vasiliki Filiotis, Principal of St. Irene Chrysovalantou School to the following graduates: Panagiota Stathopoulos; Stella Kostas; Dimitri Mpoutsis; Stella Parthenis and George Galanopoulos. A culture program of songs, dances, and poetry was recited in Modern Greek by the children of the school.
St. Irene Chrysovalantou School is known for creating some of the finest Modern Greek scholars in the metropolitan area and possibly in the Unites States. Their knowledge of spoken and grammatical Greek amazed this writer who taught the Greek language at a local university. Among the graduates who excelled in university Greek studies is Panagiotis Dellaportas. He now helps manage Bel-Aire Diner.

St. Irene Chrysovalantou School

The staff has tirelessly contributed to Hellenic education and culture. Principal Vasiliki Filiotis explained, “We believe in the strengthening, development and implementation of preschool programs where the Greek language and culture is taught through play, song, reading and writing. St. Irene Chrysovalantou School has an effective Greek program highly rated in Astoria, New York. The work of an educator is a ministry. The Greek educator gives his soul to his students. He/she tries to instill a love of Greece, the Greek heritage and the virtues of our ancient Greek philosophers. For this purpose, the educator needs the Greek-American community to stand by him/ her.”
The school’s instructors present at the 2013 graduation include:
Eirini Tsiaris; Alexandra Bountalis; Eirini Siderakis; Maria Mantzarinou; Anastasia Kapetanou; Emanuelia Papamanoli; Maria Kokodis; Eleni Karageorgiou; Androniki Grammenou.

For more information, contact The V. Rev. Archimandrite Ierotheos Zacharis, Abbot at The Sacred Patriarchal and Stavropegial Orthodox Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou, 36-07 23rd Avenue, Astoria, NY 11105-1916, Telephone: (718) 626-6225, Facsimile: (718) 626-7669 and E-mail: Sacred Patriarchal Monastery of St. Irene Chrysovalantou.

Children excelling in Greek

Greek sea

Summer breeze, flowery trees, boats, the sun and the relaxing colors of the Aegean Sea is the eternal image of Greece. Marianthi Raptis of Whitestone, New York uses these themes in her international art exhibits. She exhibited her work at an Art Exhibition featuring the works of Diaspora Greek artists in the Stathakion Cultural Center, 22-51 29th St., Queens, NY, 11105 on June 15 and 16. She participated in two previous exhibitions at the Stathakion. She has donated her art work to non-profit organizations.

The artist home in Dolou Pogoniou.

“I worked 30 years as a textile designer and colorist for home furnishings and wall papers in NYC,” Ms Raptis explained. “I find great pleasure in expressing myself in art, painting different subjects. Landscapes, portraits, flower painting are my enjoyment at this time of my life.” I met the artist thirty years ago. I covered a news event at an Epirotan social, through the suggestion of Julia Betsios. Marianthi Raptis’ personal eloquence impressed me.

She is president of the Dolou Pogoniou Society of Epirus. “Recently we had an artoclasia (holy bread blessing) at the Holy Cross Church of Whitestone in memory of Agios Christoforou, the patron of our village,” she said. Epirus produced a large percentage of immigrants who amassed fortunes. They gifted their wealth to the Greek nation either to fund the armed struggle against the Ottomans or to provide valuable structure for the creation of a new State. Epirotan benefactors rebuilt Greece. Their unique talents, as that of Marianthi Raptis, keep traditions alive among the international Diaspora of Greeks.

Bridge of Kokoris, Epirus.

Artist daughter, Peggy

Peonies

sea

Calla lilies

artist

Speakers, Scholars and Executive Board members of AHEPA.

AHEPA is the largest Greek-American association in the world with chapters in the United States, Canada, Greece, Cyprus, and sister chapters in Australia and New Zealand. It was established in 1922 by visionary Greek Americans to protect Hellenes from prejudice originating from the KKK. In its history, AHEPA joined with the NAACP and B’nai B’rith International to fight discrimination.

The mission of the AHEPA family is to promote the ancient Greek ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility and family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism. AHEPA Chapter 349, Staten Island, New York has been promoting these ideals with a vigor that is a role model. First in scholarships and providing relief to the victims of Hurricane Sandy.

The 51st Annual Scholastic Achievement Awards Program was recently held at the Holy Trinity-Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Staten Island. Despina Siolas, MD & Ph.D. and  Konstantinos Koulouris, R.A. & A.I.A. spoke on the topic, How Greek Language and Culture Enriches our Graduates.  The Invocation was delivered by Rev. Nick Petropoulakos. Welcoming remarks were presented by Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E., President of AHEPA Chapter 349 and Sokratis Dapias, Master of Ceremonies. The speakers, Scholastic Awards to Greek School, High School and College were presented by Homer Vandoros, Chairman of the Board of Governors and the Executive Board. A lavish dinner was served. The Staten Island diner owners, whose children and grandchildren attend the Modern Greek Afternoon School, donated the cuisine.

– Despina Siolas, MD & Ph.D. and Konstantinos Koulouris, R.A. & A.I.A. honored by Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E., President of AHEPA Chapter 349 and Sokratis Dapias, Master of Ceremonies.

The Scholastic Awards Presentation were given to the following scholars: Greek Afternoon School Graduate, Athina Fronimakis; High School graduates, Evisa Bello, George Danias, Vasiliki Drogaris, Timothy Gentle, Aleandra Ikonomou, Marina Kanakos, Konstantinos Koumousidis, Dimitrios Lintzeris, Evangelos Manolakos, Dimitrios Pavlidis, Ioanna Pefanis, Sophia Stark, Spiro Tountas, Katelyn Senakis; College Graduates, Constantinos Monioudis, Alexis Sidiropoulos, Evangelia Temaj, Angela Papaioannou, Paulina Kanakos, Gabriella Realmouto, Georgia Stasinopoulos and Marianthi Karavites.

Dr. Despina Siolas’ presentation described the meaning of Greek roots. “It has been a number of years since my Greek School graduation.  I remember the day like it was yesterday.  I had been enrolled in a parochial day school that required uniforms, singing songs on Greek National Holidays and religious studies. When I stood at graduation day, I didn’t realize how tumultuous and uncertain the next few years would be. At the same time, however, I didn’t fully appreciate what all those years of Greek education had taught me.

Dr. Despina Siolas displaying award with Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E. and Sokratis Dapias.

In my sophomore year of college, I had the opportunity to do research at Harvard University for the summer. This was my first time living away from my parents. I was eager to go to such a prestigious place, but also nervous. I didn’t know a single person who lived in the entire state of Massachusetts. I had to become self- reliant. I tried to find some familiar sense of home by looking up the nearest Greek Church. I became acquainted with the Greek American community. I gained an extended family of friends that I could rely on. Most of them were third and fourth generation Greek Americans whose family had immigrated to the US in WWI or WWII. This was a different community from what I was used to in NY. This was my first glimpse into how Greek Americans are able to preserve their culture for years could outside their homeland.

At St. John’s University, I took Greek lessons on a college level. Through this class, I not only continued to practice my language skills, but also came to appreciate Greek culture and Greece’s place in modern history. I learned about the struggle of the Asia Minor Greeks to the Ottoman Turks and the population exchange of 1922. This event forced two  million Greeks to leave their homes in Turkey as Turkey began its modernization process. Years later, I visited these neighborhoods in Turkey. The stories of my Greek class came to life as I learned of the hard life the Greeks in Turkey had lived. This enlightening course is still being offered today at St. John’s University.

After college, I enrolled in a vigorous combined degree program where I emerged with both a medical degree from Stony Brook School of Medicine and a PhD doctorate in Cancer Genetics from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.  I quickly found myself drowning in a sea of medical jargon. I turned to my Greek Medical dictionary to learn the meaning of anatomical terms and medical words. I felt alone.  I banded with the other two Greek Americans in my class, knowing they came from a similar background. One girl, like me, was also the first in her family to go to medical school. Our similar heritage and knowledge of Greek united us as a support system to get us through the tough medical school rotations.

We all underestimated the gift that our Greek culture had given us. Our Greek education enabled us to persevere and succeed. We found internships, made contacts and discovered that Greek people look out for each other. Our years at Greek School played a great role in molding us as individuals. This is where we refined our intellects and strengthened our values and ethics, that have come into play every day of our lives in ways we don’t even realize.

I have one more story to share. Last summer, I traveled with my American friend, Susan to Greece.  It was a wonderful experience to be able to introduce her to the nation where my family is from. Despite a tough economic situation, we found that Greek people welcomed us wherever we went. We made friends with strangers that were delighted we had come to learn about their homeland. We visited Chios, during the notorious masticha tree fires and traveled through Mytilene, Arcadia and Veria, a small town outside of Thessaloniki, known to have been visited by St. Paul. People proudly showed us their hometowns and taught us of their history. We left Greece with a sense of longing to return to a country filled with ancient mysteries and new challenges.

The Nation of Greece has been hit with a national tragedy. The Eurozone crisis has caused a brain drain of thousands of young skilled professionals to leave their home country in order to escape spiraling unemployment, biting austerity measures and political uncertainty. This new educated Greek diaspora is being helped by millions of Greeks already living abroad who are offering them jobs, homes and a new opportunity to build their lives outside of their home country. This is something that our ancestors have done when they came to America searching for a better life.

My message to the graduates is to hold close to you the language and heritage you have been bestowed. You must always remember that as a Hellene or Phil-Hellene, you will never be alone. We are a strong community that supports and believes in the value of our youth. Greeks have believed in education, scholarship and mentorship for thousands of years. Through your Greek American families and continual Greek studies, you have been given a set of moral values that will enable you to excel and make the right decision when faced with a challenge.  The chapter of your life that you are entering now is one of vast opportunity. You are open-minded and energetic and ready to take on the world. This is the time to find and cultivate your passions.

Finally graduates, no speech is complete without a memorable quote. While I was tempted to quote Kane West, I decided upon a more appropriate quote by the Greek philosopher Epicurus who was from the island of Samos. “The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it. Skillful pilots gain their reputation from storms and tempests.” You must pursue the tempests and the storms. Today and every day, do not settle for what may seem to be the easy road, for the path to success has never been easy. Take advantage of the opportunities of each day.”

“The AHEPA Family of Staten Island, New York is proud to sponsor this Annual Awards Program,” said Prof. John Antonopoulos. “We are honoring our outstanding young people of Greek descent in our community. Congratulations and best of luck in your Future endeavors! You have made us proud!”

– Scholar Spiros Tountas (center) with Prof. John Antonopoulos and Mrs. Tountas.

Prof. Antonopoulos added, “We wish to thank our supporters for their donations by purchasing the raffle tickets that made this program possible. We extend our wishes for an enjoyable summer. Congratulations and best of luck in your future endeavors!” The international scholar has been working behind the scenes of AHEPA and Modern Greek language education. Dr. John Antonopoulos holds a PhD, CSP. He is a retired/ Professor / Safety Consultant for the MTA. In the 1990’s, he served for three years as President of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Board of Education.

“I was selected by Staten Island University to go to China for three months as a visiting professor,” he explained. “I taught engineering, ergonomics and quality control for three months in 1991 and 1993 at Shanghai University.” The outstanding AHEPA leader was President of the American Society of Industrial Engineers for four years. Prof. Antonopoulos was honored by the President of the Transportation and Environmental Committees of C.B. #2 of Staten Island. He was honored by the Hon. Carolyn B. Maloney at the Capitol in 2008 and Hermes Expo in 2010 as an outstanding educator. Prof Antonopoulos and his wife, Emily, have two sons, Alexander, a Ph.D. in Pharmacy and Harry, a B.A. from CUNY and a NYC fireman.

Mrs. Emily Antonopoulos has worked behind the scenes of Greek education in Staten Island for countless years. Scholar Georgia Stasinopoulos explained “more important than my college (Harvard) degree is my certificate from Greek afternoon school with Mrs. Antonopoulos.” Rosemarie Papaioannou continued saying that “because of Mrs. Antonopoulos, I was able to communicate with my husband’s parents, siblings, cousins, grandparents. Mrs. Antonopoulos has given me a wonderful gift by sharing her love of the Greek language with me and many of her students. She respected our desire to learn and nourished and encouraged our efforts no matter how imperfect our attempts were. She is truly an inspiration to anyone who is willing to learn.” The educator has taught 30 years of Greek Afternoon School at the Holy Trinity-Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Staten Island. She was the recipient of the St. Paul Medal of Honor from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America by His Eminence, Archbishop Iakovos. She was honored as outstanding Greek language educator by the Federation of Greek Societies, Prometheus Society and Hermes Expo.

Scholar Katelyn Xenakis (center) with AHEPA Executive Board

“We helped the victims of Hurricane Sandy in Staten Island,” said Dr. John Antonopoulos. “Our AHEPA chapter #349 collected $11,000. We gave $1,000 each to 11 Greek-American families who lost their homes. Our chapter was #1 in the country helping survivors.” Mrs. Emily Antonopoulos explained “the generous envelopes coming in the mail for the disaster victims were extraordinary.”

This program was made possible by the 2012-13 Executive Officers of AHEPA chapter 349 include: Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E., President, Yiannis Ikonomou, Vice-President, Ioannis Papaioannou, Secretary and Harry Monioudis, Treasurer. The members of the 2013 Scholastic Awards Committee are George Karavitis, Homer Vandoros, Petros Vlitas, Socrates Dapias and Ioannis Papaioannou.

Prof. John and Emily Antonopoulos, pioneers of Hellenism.

Links:

http://www.ahepa.org/dotnetnuke/News/NewsReleases/tabid/82/EntryId/206/AHEPA-Donates-10-000-to-Superstorm-Sandy-Victims.aspx-

Photo 1 –Speakers, Scholars and Executive Board members of AHEPA.

Photo 2 – Despina Siolas, MD & Ph.D. and Konstantinos Koulouris, R.A. & A.I.A. honored by Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E., President of AHEPA Chapter 349 and Sokratis Dapias, Master of Ceremonies.

Photo 3- Dr. Despina Siolas displaying award with Prof. John Antonopoulos, P.E. and Sokratis Dapias.

Photo 4- Prof. John and Emily Antonopoulos, pioneers of Hellenism.

Photo 5 – Scholar Spiros Tountas (center) with Prof. John Antonopoulos and Mrs. Tountas.

Photo 6 – Scholar Katelyn Xenakis (center) with AHEPA Executive Board

Artemis Pando

“Thank you so much to everyone who helped me win. It is greatly appreciated by my family and me. Thank you for not giving up because it paid off!!!!” Artemis Pando of  Queens and Mattituck, Long Island said upon winning a photo contest on Facebook. Artemis performed before an agent in a modeling/acting competition. She had a photo contest based on this event.

The High School student had a record number of  Facebook like votes, amounting to 6,000. People from the USA and Europe voted for her photo. Tirana, Albania showed strong support. Her father is a Greek Northern Epiroti from Albania. Her mother is from Central Greece. Artemis plans to pursue a career in the theater. She is a member of the Transfiguration Church in Mattituck, Long Island.

Transfiguration Church

“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” —Douglas MacArthur. Anthony (Tony) Coutsouros, the son of immigrants from Heraklion,

Crete, is changing the course of a rural church in Mattituck. His honesty, integrity and belonging to no established interests resulted in his election as President of the Transfiguration Church in Mattituck, New York. His new approach is altering the path the church has been taking since the demise of the WWII Greek and Cypriot Americans. The big change is in the reintegration of English in church life and accountability of all expenditures.

Anthony and Elpida Coutsouros on wedding day

“We must cut operating costs that amount to $2,000 a week,” he said to this writer. “Last year we had a deficit of $8,000. We must move forward in a new direction, with volunteers donating their services. According to the December 31, 2012 “Financial Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Fund Balance”, the current assets declined by $8,273. The Building Fund donations increased from $10,115 in 2011 to $23,495 in 2012. This increase of over $13,000 in Building Fund donations prevented the Church from having a loss more than $8,273.

In the spring 2013, a letter was sent out to every parishioner by the newly elected President. “I am writing to you on a very important subject,” he said. “Your Beloved Church, at present, is in a dire situation: We have a very low Sunday Attendance; our Church membership is very low; Contributions are very low. I appeal to you to come to Church, to pray for you and your family’s good health and success. Bring your family and friends to feel the joy of the Church. Take Communion and purify your soul. Let’s get the feeling back of the first Christian religion that saved the world.”

He continued saying, “I pass Churches on route 25 and see their parking lots full. I have a heavy heart for our Church. I know you all love your church. I appeal to you to come and renew your commitment to Christ….The Church Council has decided with your support that all memorial kolyva be purchased through the Church, except for self-made kolyva. All proceeds will go to the church 100%.” According to my sources, Mrs. Stella Giannoukakis has been preparing kolyva since spring. Her husband, George is in Church every Sunday helping. The new President donates his services repairing and performing custodial work. He is the only President in history to do such maintenance.

Anthony Coutsouros reached out to the Southold government and mass media for free services. Posters on a grand scale were seen on route 25 from Riverhead to Greenport, Long Island. I actually saw a Festival ad in the Greek News published by Apostoli Zoupaniotis. He initiated a weekly religious booklet with colorful byzantine graphics. A poem on Mattituck in Greek by poet/parishioner Anthoula Gatanas was included in the booklet once.

“I believe this is the Church of love and a bright light,” Anthony Coutsouros said. Some young people view the Transfiguration of Christ Church as a last stop before final rest.  Senior citizens, such as Anthony Coutsouros, are changing that image into a new beginning for many late in life. “I was metamorphosed at the Metamorphosis Church in Mattituck,” Coutsouros, a former widower said. “I went to church depressed, without a reason to live. I saw an angel.” That angel was Elpida Ioanides, a widow for five years.” They were married in September 2011. Jimmy Mihaltses, a family friend, said, “Elpida is my wife, Katina’s friend. We were her first friends at the church. She is a very good person, a brilliant person from Cyprus.” Elpida is aiding him in his community service through public relations. She has changed the decor of the church hall. “We are blessed from God to be at the Transfiguration Church,” she said.

Volunteer Chanter Pete Pappas and wife Popi with granddaughters

Mr. George Zachariadis, a famous chanter and leader of the Greek Orthodox Church who was an immigrant from Nisiros, recently passed away. A genuine loss is constantly expressed. Mr. Jimmy Talas, the Choir master, passed away on August 6, 2012,resulting in the elimination of the choir. The musical vacuum is being bridged by parishioners. Mr. Peter Pappas, former parish council president and a chanter of forty-three years, is now summer chanter.  He has always donated his services. Mr. Pappas is encouraging members of the former choir to sing with him. A new chanter comes from the center of the island to create a magnificent Byzantine musical presence. A significant savings will be seen in the annual December 2013 Financial Statement.

Festival Chairman Manny Constantine (4th from left) with volunteers.

‘We invite all to our Festival July 26^th, 27^th and 28^th,” said President Coutsouros. “We want to inspire a new direction bringing in new persons and youth.” The phenomenal success can be attributed to the recruitment of dynamic community activist Manny Constantine. “My right hand lady is Barbara Thermos,” said the Festival Chairman. “My left hand lady is Emily Kavourias. I recruited vendors (over twelve) from New York City. A fabulous flea market, Greek cuisine and pastries are being offered. Saturday night, July 27^th, we are having live entertainment.”The Monastery of Agion Panton from Calverton and Michael Peters of GW Greek Superstore in Astoria had booths.

Chairman Manny Constantine (3rd from right) with wife Amal and family.

Manny Constantine’s family, who is from Asgata, Cyprus, established residences in the 1950’s Mattituck. His wife, Amal, and their children are continuing his family’s presence in the Transfiguration Church. Mrs. Eleni Condos was impressed with the volunteer T-shirts and youth presence. “My son-in-law could not find a parking place. He walked (1/4 mile) from our home to the church,” she said. “Everyone was cooperative with no arguments. I have been coming to the Festival in 15 years. This is the first time I saw a good system.”

“We ran out of food on Friday, July 27^th,” said President Coutsouros. “We cooked fresh cuisine on Saturday morning that was completely sold out that evening. Sunday morning, we cooked again fresh food. None of our cuisine was cooked three weeks before. Everything was sold with persons coming back Monday morning, July 29^th for more pastries.”

Jimmy (left to right) and Katina Mihaltses with grandchild and Cynthia Pylarinos at Festival.

“Signs are all over the place,” said Lynn Wehrenberg, a staff member of Andrew Stype Real Estate. “I am going to tell my sister to come.” Mersina Stagias and her daughter Helen with Fotini Economou, all members of the Geros Tou Morea chapter of the Arcadian Federation in Astoria, were thrilled with their purchases. Nicholas Zannikos said, “We are all working, supporting each other as a team.”

Marika and Jimmy Fotopoulos came from Flushing, New York, went fishing in Greenport and concluded their trip at the Transfiguration Church. This was the trend followed by others who ended an evening in Long Island with Greek cuisine. The 2013 Festival was the best in the history of the Church since it was established in the early 1970’s.

“We must have a cooperative effort of all five churches on the East End,” said Father Constantine Lazarakis, presbyter of Kimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons to this writer. President Coutsouros said, “We had a spiritual event on Sunday afternoon with the presence of Very Rev. Alexander Karloutsos, protopresbyter of the Kimisis Tis Theotokou Church and it was uplifting to have these international religious leaders with us. Father Alex supported our raffles generously.” President Coutsouros had a team of volunteers selling raffles for three days. The 2013 raffle will prove to be a phenomenal success. The President, Festival Chairman and staff have been spending several days in a monumental clean-up of the Church. Cooperation, unity and all working together was the trademark of the 2013 Festival.

Church Secretary Virginia Tripolitis created a unique Journal book with the help of the Greek-American community of New York City in 2012. Her outstanding work as Dance Journal Chairman is continuing. “This year Virginia Tripolitis is undertaking the publication of the 2013 Journal to honor the memory of George Zachariadis,” said active President Tony Coutsouros in an official document dated June 2013.  One parishioner whose journal page was accidentally omitted in the 2012 edition, more than doubled their donation in 2013 with a sponsor page to support the efforts of this extremely honest, dedicated leader. This trend is continuing. Many look forward to seeing a remarkable 2013 Journal. The 44^th Anniversary Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday, October 12^th evening in the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church Hall. The Journal pages are as follows: Sponsor Page, $500; Gold Frame Page, $200; Silver Frame Page, $150 and White Page, $100. For more information, call 631-298-9652 or e-mail transgochurch@optonline.net.

The 2013 Parish Council Board, Committee Members and staff include: Rev. Constantine Makrinos, Protopresbyter; Anthony Coutsouros, President; George Giannoukakis, First Vice President; Calliope Kentrotas, Second Vice President; Mary Kavourias, Treasurer; Sophia Lahana, Assistant Treasurer; Argyro Mavrikos, Recording Secretary; Parish Council Members, Vasilios Frangias, Dino Demetriades; Alex Mavrikos, Nick Neocleous, Irene Markotsis; Calliope Orfanidis, Harriet Zanikos; Virginia Tripolitis, Church Secretary; Manny Constantine, Festival Chairperson; Assistant Festival Chairpersons, Barbara Thermos, Emily Kavourias, Irene Kalogeras; altar boys, Anastasios Kassapidis, Pantelis Pando, George and Emmanuel Moustakos.

President Anthony Coutsouros

The 2013 Philoptohos Board are the following: Irene Nanos, President; Honorary President Cynthia Pylarinos; Irene Moustakos, First Vice President; Sophia Lahana, Second Vice President; Chrystalla Stamatis, Treasurer; Katina Mihaltses, Corresponding Secretary; Lucretia Kratsios, Recording Secretary; Harriet Zannikos, Assistant Treasurer and Voula Anastasiades, Raffles. This is an incomplete list taken from the 2012 Dance Journal and 2013 Parish Council documentation. If any name has been omitted, please contact the Transfiguration Church at 631-298-9652 or e-mail transgochurch@optonline.net.

His Eminence greeted by Parish Council members and Archons meet each other

“We welcome His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America to our Parish on the fore feast of the Transfiguration Church,” said Parish Council President Anthony “Tony” Coutsouros of the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church of Mattituck, New York.

A unique three day Feast Day celebration commenced with the Aug. visit of the religious leader.  His Eminence was accompanied by Senior Deacon Panteleimon and Deacon Eleftherios. Refreshments followed in the Church hall. Archons Stephen Cherpelis and Renos Georgiou and their spouses were present.      

‘I am happy to perform the service with Presbyter Constantine (Makrinos) who has served the Greek Orthodox Church for 28 years today,” said His Eminence. “My visit coincides with the anniversary of Father Constantine’s father, Anastasios, passing away 24 years ago today. We commemorate his memory, George Zachariadis and Choir Director Demetrios “Jimmy” Talas today.”

Byzantine iconography

“This is a beautiful church with iconography,” said His Eminence. “Few churches have such iconography today.” Every inch of space is decorated by traditional Byzantine iconography that I have seen in Greece and Sicily. Middle class businessmen and senior citizens put their hearts into decorating the church. The religious building represents the efforts of Middle Class Greek-Americans, who wanted to remember their roots. A social class that is now vanishing.

“The Transfiguration is one of the events of the Theophany with eyewitnesses of the disciples,” explained His Eminence. “A visit to the Holy Land is not complete without a trip to Mount Tabor,” according to the Transfiguration Church August 4^th Bulletin.

“The view of the top of this majestic mountain in the region of Galilee is nothing short of spectacular! The word spectacular can also be used to describe the historical event of the Transfiguration on this sacred site.”

Catherine Zarbis and choir

An inspired choir gave an inspiring performance with Catherine Zarbis. She is a nationally recognized choirmaster and former principal. The Zarbis family has been vacationing in Mattituck since the 1970’s.

Her Greek roots are from the island of Limnos, opposite ancient Troy and the Ionian island of Cephalonia. She was the former principal of P.S. 19, Queens, and a Principal Mentor for the New York City school system.

She served as choir director of St. Nicholas Church of Flushing for thirty-four years. She is presently Choir Director of St. Paraskevi Church in Greenlawn, New York. The Choir members come from Queens and Long Island.

The Church community gathers for the event

They are primarily from St. Demetrios of Astoria, St. Demetrios of Jamaica, St. Nicholas Church of Flushing and several Long Island churches.

Many vacation for the summer, while some live all year round. Jimmy Talas, his family and friends came together every summer since the 1970’s to create an extraordinary summer choir.

”I am doing this for Jimmy,” said Cathy Zarbis. “I am a close personal friend of the family.” His wife, Parie, her sister, brother and relatives supported Jimmy in helping him create an extraordinary Byzantine choir in Queens and Mattituck. Jimmy and his friends gave of themselves to the Transfiguration Church from the 1970’s, never asking for anything in return. Jimmy was a proud person, who never wanted his photo taken or be given publicity for his community service. A deep pathos, sorrow now pervades the church atmosphere for the loss of a dedicated person.

Chanters Peter Pappas and Ioannis Rontiris.

The Transfiguration of Christ has an outstanding new chanter. Ioannis Rontiris is from the center of Long Island, commuting to fill the vacuum created by the passing away of George Zachariadis.

He is from the town of Platanos, Nakpaftias, Sterea Ellada (Central Greece). “Platanos” a masterpiece of Greek village life was written by his friend, the late Constantine Dedopoulos. “We are happy the new chanter is here,” said Eleni and Bill Condos. “He is our patrioti from near Karpenisi (Central Greece).”

Regional ties are strong in this community. Peter Pappas, former parish council president and a chanter for 43 years, donated his services this summer and is encouraging members of the former choir to sing with him.

A poem dedicated to His Eminence was read in Greek by poet/parishioner Anthoula Gatanas. Her poems have brought Greek culture to the East End.

Poetess Anthoula Gatanas.

The Transfiguration of Christ Church has been the meeting place for the newly revived Greek American Homeowners Association of Southold, NY (HATCAST).

There was unanimous agreement that HATCAST must continue as a licensed N.Y. State organization.

Members in the late 1970’s created the first Greek American Homeowners Association of Eastern Long Island. President Gregory Fegos said “all financial funds are intact and will not be touched, in respect to the founders’ wishes. Unity, protecting property rights by reinvigorating HATCAST is our goal.

A picnic free to the public will be held on Aug. 24 from 12-6 p.m. at South Harbor Rd., Southold. The officers include: President Gregory Fegos; Emeritus President Andreas E. Markakis; Vice-President Costas Vagelatos; Recording Secretary Dr. John G. Siolas. The Board of HATCAST, with founding members George Megdanis and his spouse greeted His Eminence during the coffee hour.

HATCAST members greet His Eminence

The Vespers and Feast Day of the Transfiguration of Christ Church attracted more than 300 people each day. At the Aug. evening Vespers, priests from Long Island’s Greek Orthodox parishes attended.

The Sisters of the All Saints Greek Orthodox Monastery, Calverton were present. An inspiring Feast Day service on Aug, 6 attracted hundreds. A luncheon followed prepared by the ladies of the Philoptohos Society.

“I take this opportunity to thank the Chairmans Manny Constantine, Barbara Thermos, Emily Kavourias, Irene Kalogeras and all the volunteers who made this 44^th Festival very successful this year,” said President Tony Coutsouros.

“It was one of the best Festivals of our parish. I also thank all the youth and cooks who helped us during the Festival.” Over fifty thousand was raised before expenditures were deducted, according to reliable sources. In my opinion, this is the best Festival in the parish’s history.”

“Please support our 44^th Anniversary Dance Journal book,” continued President Coutsouros. “Supporting our church is putting an ad in the book. This year’s album is dedicated in Memory of our Protopsaltis George Zachariadis. The Chairwoman is Virginia Tripolitis. Raffle Chairwoman is Irene Markotsis.

The 44^th Anniversary Dinner Dance will be held on Oct. 12 in the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church Hall. The Journal pages are as follows: Sponsor Page, $500; Gold Frame Page, $200; Silver Frame Page, $150 and White Page, $100. For more information, call 631-298-9652 or e-mail transgochurch@optonline.net.

The 2013 Parish Council Board, Committee Members and staff  include: Rev. Constantine Makrinos, Protopresbyter; Anthony Coutsouros, President; George Giannoukakis, First Vice President; Calliope Kentrotas, Second Vice President; Mary Kavourias, Treasurer; Sophia Lahana, Assistant Treasurer; Argyro Mavrikos, Recording Secretary; Parish Council Members, Vasilios Frangias, Dino Demetriades; Alex Mavrikos, Nick Neocleous, Irene Markotsis; Calliope Orfanidis, Harriet Zanikos; Virginia Tripolitis, Church Secretary; Manny Constantine, Festival Chairperson; Assistant Festival Chairpersons, Barbara Thermos, Emily Kavourias, Irene Kalogeras;IoannisRontiris, Chanter, Mr. Peter Pappas, Summer Chanter; Altar boys, AnastasiosKassapidis, Pantelis Pando, George and Emmanuel Moustakos.
The 2012 Philoptohos Board includes: Irene Nanos, President; Honorary President Cynthia Pylarinos; Irene Moustakos, First Vice President; Sophia Lahana, Second Vice President; ChrystallaStamatis, Treasurer; Katina Mihaltses, Corresponding Secretary; Lucretia Kratsios, Recording Secretary; Harriet Zanikos, Assistant Treasurer and Voula Anastasiades, Raffles.  If any name has been omitted, please contact the Transfiguration Church at 631-298-9652 or e-mail transgochurch@optonline.net.

Link: https://picasaweb.google.com/113119187466714282240/August42013# – photos of His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios’ visit to the Transfiguration of Christ Church in Mattituck, NY.

Anastasi Kassapidis, 

Anastasis Kassapidis is being honored for his exceptional service to the Community of Mattituck, New York for August 2013. He lives in Whitestone, New York and Mattituck, Long Island. He is a sophomore at Fordham University. Anastasis is twenty years old. He has served as an altar acolyte (assistant) for fifteen years. His seriousness and attention to detail is unique. He was granted the honor of “Reader” by his Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America. The Reader is responsible for reading excerpts from the scriptures and epistles during the liturgy.

Family: Vicky Kassapidis (left to right), Dr. Rany Condos, Eleni and Bill Condos

 There is a demographic trend. The grandparents bring two generations of their family to the Transfiguration Church in rural Mattituck. The church fills up in the summer, because of love shown to the seniors by their children and grandchildren. Bill and Helen Condos are immigrants from Karpenisi, Greece. They had their grandson Anastasios Kassapidis serve in the altar as a child. A tradition he continues to the present day. Their granddaughter Vassiliki (Vicky) has been singing in the choir from childhood to her college years. Their daughter, Dr. Rany Condos and her husband, Dr.Sotiris Kassapidis support every church activity since 1998.

Anastasi with grandparents

“Anastasi was brought close to Greek Orthodoxy through the efforts of Father Dionisios Marketos,” said his grandmother. “He was my grandson’s Mentor.”The Condos family is from the heart of Central Greece that was part of the original Greece of 1821. The Karpenesiotes have always been at the core of battle for freedom from Ancient Greece to our Modern era. Their trademark is a rugged, determined purpose. Their miraculous icon of the Panayia Prousiotissa has sustained their religious faith through the turmoil of W.W. II and the Greek Civil War that destroyed their families and homes.  They were reborn. The Evrytanon Karpenisiotes are prominent in mainstream America.

On Friday, August 23^rd, Mrs. Eleni Condos baked five loafs of bread for the Feast day of Panagia Prousiotissa. “We have our own Metropolitan of Karpenisi, who represents our Holy Monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos Proussos (Pyrsos) and houses the icon called Theotokos Prousiotissa,” explained Mrs. Condos to me in August 2012. “The icon came there during the iconoclastic era (829 A.D.) of Theophilos from Proussa.  The icon was honored in the Church of Proussa by kings and lords. A nobleman of the court refused to destroy the icon, escaped to Greece, lost it and found it in the mountain where the Monastery of Prousiotissa stands.”

Monastery of Panagia Prousiotissa

Panagia Prousiotissa

Mrs. Daisy Moraitis entering first, assisted by founders Pericles and Toula Bakas and Coula Johnides.

 “My children,” cried PapaFotis “it is here…that with God’s aid we shall take root….It is the soul of Greece, our soul!…Virgin Mother, ..Our Lady, look down on our village, give its women patience and love…Give to the men the strength to work and never despair, that dying they may leave behind them a yard filled with children and grandchildren! Give, our Lady, a peaceful and Christian end to the old men and women! Here is thy Gate, Our Lady of the Gate:  enter!”  This paragraph is taken from Nikos Kazantzakis chapter on “the Planting of a Village”, from his masterpiece,The Greek Passion.

On the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Kimisis tis Theotokou) Feast Day, persons from the East End of Long Island and tri-state area experienced a rarely seen event in history: the Thyranixia or “The Opening of the Doors” of the new Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons. A Vespers service August 14^th, began the two day religious Feast Day. Five hundred persons attended the unique service on August 15^th.

Transfiguration Church First Prize Thyranixia photo by Tom Tsounis

My memory retreated thirty-seven years ago. On Sunday, August 8, 1976, the Transfiguration of Christ Church in Mattituck Long Island held its Thyranixia and Consecration by His Eminence, Archbishop Iakovos of the Greek Orthodox Church of North and South America. “You will never see an event like this again in your lifetime,” said a parishioner. The event coincided with the Bicentennial of the United States. The East End was mesmerized by the photograph of His Eminence, dressed in black with a Byzantine cross, accepting with sincere emotion, flowers from two young girls, Penelope Lichas and Joanne Korakis. It was submitted to the South old Rotary-sponsored Bicentennial Photography contest. This photograph by Tom Tsounis won first prize in the Bicentennial category, Black and White division (January 27, 1977, Suffolk Times). 1976 saw the Transfiguration of Christ Church of Mattituck as putting the first roots of the Greek Orthodox faith in Eastern Long Island.

People still among us in 2013, remember the Consecration and Thyranixia Byzantine chants through the farm fields, by His Eminence, Presbyter Rev. Timotheos Tenedios and clergy. They encircled the church three times with a container of Holy Relics. His Eminence dramatically reentered the Church by knocking on the doors three times with his gold staff. The honor of being the first layman to enter was bestowed upon Yanni and Elias Kulukundis, the sponsor of the church.

Every aspect of the Consecration rite, which included the exposition of the Holy Relics, the washing of the altar table and anointment of the church, was described by His Eminence in terms of its rich Byzantine tradition. This was derived from the practices of the early Christians. The conclusion of the ceremony came with the offering of oil to the vigil lamp, accompanied by a donation from the sponsor. Mr. Kulukundis donated one thousand dollars and pledged seventy-five thousand for a community center. (August, 19, 1976, Hellenic Times, August 18, 1976, Orthodox Observer, August 12, 1976, Suffolk Times). Father Constantine Makrinos, the present presbyter, explained “a sleepless light is over the relics of Sts. Theona, Iakovos the Monk and Anastasia sealed in the Holy Altar Table.” Friendships were cemented that day that lasted a lifetime.

Rev. John Codis with clergy at Vespers. All photos by Stavroula Raia

Thirty-seven years later, the East End had the opportunity of seeing a second Thyranixia (The Opening of the Doors) in a church with a church that has features of Agia Sophia in Constantinople (Istanbul). Vespers on Tuesday evening, August 14^th, were held in the Johnides Cultural Center. The priests who participated in the liturgy included: Rev. Vlahos; Rev. Moraitis; Rev. Strouzas; Rev. Joseph Fester;Archpriest Sergei Glagolev; Rev. John Codis; Rev. Alexander Karloutsos; Rev. Constantine Lazerakis and the Sisters of the All Saints Monastery.

“It is my privilege and blessing to deliver the Vespers sermon,” explained Rev. John Codis. “Heartaches, lawsuits and prayers brought us closer to God and this moment. I had a choice. The faithful in the parish helped me become what I am. The Kimisis Church guided me to make decisions.” Rev. Alexander Karloutsos added “Father John Codis is a great son of the church and of Rosemary Codis.” Father John Codis was raised in the parish, in addition to Rev. Demetrios Kehagias, son of the first priest Rev. Nektarios Kehagias and Presvitera Despina. Father Codis’ grandparents, Rita and Nick Codis, had friends at the Transfiguration Church on the North Fork. Refreshments were served by the Philoptohos under the great tent.

The Archbishop blessing

The Thyranixia began on the morning of August 15^th with a Doxastikon of the Lauds in the Johnides Cultural Center. His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of America was the celebrant. Assisting clergy were the following: Father Basil Summer, Archpriest; Father Alexander Karloutsos, Protopresbyter; Father Constantine Lazarakis, Oikonomos; Father John Codis, Efimerios; Archdeacon Panteleimon Papadopoulos and Deacon Eleftherios Constantine. At the conclusion of the Doxastikon of the lauds, a procession began from the Johnides Cultural Center to the outer doors of the new church.

His Eminence preparing entry into church

“We give thanks to You on this auspicious day gathering us here to celebrate the sacred “Door Opening of this venerable church….,” said His Eminence. “We ask you to send forth Your abundant blessings on those here present and upon this new church, the works of our hands. …May it be a haven and shelter for those in distress, a refuge for those in turmoil and a source of edification and sanctification for all your people. May our prayers be acceptable to You through the intercessions of our most holy Lady, the Theotokos and ever-virgin Mary.” The Archbishop blessed and hit the doors with his episcopal staff. He opened the closed doors with Mrs. Daisy Moraitis entering first, assisted by founders Pericles and Toula Bakas, Coula Johnides, Bob Gianos, Greta Nikiteas along with Presvitera Xanthi Karloutsos in spirit. Mrs. Daisy gave her “blessings to all and good health.”

Liturgy in new church

The doors opened a unique Byzantine church with a dome. Never did I expect to see in rural America a church meticulous in detail to a Byzantine design. I noticed several green columns, such as those in Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. Sitting with us were Karine Bakhoum, Pascal Riffaud and their daughter Isabelle, with son Jean Baptiste serving in the altar. “This new structure and Cathedral is so beautiful it takes our breath away,” said Ms. Bakhoum, a Coptic Christian and immigrant from Egypt. “I look forward to many special moments here to express our faith and to see my children married here someday.” Countless prominent persons in society attended. For more information, visit www.kimisishamptons.org. Many from Europe have never seen a Thyranixia because the churches are one thousand to fifteen hundred years old. The community presented His Eminence with a sculpture in the frame of an icon created by Paul Maus. His Eminence gave the community the gift of an Epitafios of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. A Luncheon followed at Nammos, hosted by Tom Makkos and Family.

The community presented His Eminence with a sculpture in the frame of an icon created by Paul Maus.

Parish Council President Peter Nikiteas gave a moving speech at the conclusion of the Luncheon. “All of this would not have been possible without the vision and persistence of the original founders.  They took many difficult steps. Our leaders had the vision to take it even further. Now, you and many others have taken this dream and turned it into a new reality. This new sanctuary will serve our children and their children’s children.”

His Eminence gave the community the gift of an Epitafios of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

President Nikiteas explained “we are a family..We work together. We argue with one another. But in the end, we make things happen with the help and guidance Fr. Alex and Fr. Constantine. I feel as blessed as should you. We have come this far. But there is much more to do. I know we can achieve our goals if we work together and reach deep down inside ourselves to do our best. I thank you for being my family. Most of all I want to thank God for guiding us to this special day.”

Dr. Peter Michalos said “we know how hard Dimitrios Hatgistavrou worked behind the scenes.” Dimitrios Hatgistavrou tenure as Parish Council President lasted from 2006-2011. He oversaw the building project of the new ecclesiastical complex with real dedication. He is the second generation of the Hatgistavrou family to serve Kimisis church. His pleasant personality made all guests welcome in the community. He is a self-made man with a strong work ethic. Self-sacrifice, thinking of others first and himself second, are the cornerstones of his beliefs. President Hatgistavrou’s family is from Macedonia, of Asia Minor roots. His late father Angelo established his family as one of the first fifty families to initiate the movement to build Kimisis Church in Southampton. Maria Melemenis Hatgistavrou is one of the major forces in the life of the Philoptohos. Most Greek-American businessmen are the backbone of our Greek Orthodox Churches, Greek language schools and regional organizations. This is part of the legacy of Dimitrios Hatgistavrou: remembering his roots. The new church will have his personality imprinted on it. The many parishioners who helped are listed in the church book, Thyranixia. For more information on this historic book, contact http://kimisishamptons.org/.

Several columns, such as those in Hagia Sophia in Constantinople

I grew up on the East End when there were only potato fields in 1961. The creation of the Southampton Greek Orthodox complex is the result of a combined effort of clergy, community, archons and others. The bottom line is this: Rev. Alexander Karloutsos is the prime mover. It is his Legacy. No one had this grand vision of a Cathedral, near the former train tracks of Southampton. Greek Orthodox and Orthodox parishioners are scattered through the South Fork. A middle class neighborhood walking distance to the church does not exist. Rev. Karloutsos created a Herculanean accomplishment with Presvitera Xanthi Karloutsos.

This historic moment made me think of a religious leader who changed my life: Rev. Michael Karloutsos, the father of Father Alex. He was a tough, down to the point priest who faced reality head on. Father Michael was my husband’s youthful mentor, who was at my wedding and baptism of my daughter. He would be proud that his son accomplished a dream. Rev. Alexander Karloutsos’ Legacy can be traced to his traditional Greek Orthodox upbringing, learning from his unique religious mentors, during the turbulent 1960’s and 1970’s (Vietnam War era). Rev. Michael Karloutsos’ granddaughter’s husband, Presbyter Rev. Constantine Lazarakis, is continuing this Legacy. “Cooperation is important for all churches,” said Rev. Lazarakis. “There is a unique cooperation between the five churches on the East End, serving our people.”

Links:

Photography for this article were contributed by Stavroula Raia

https://www.facebook.com/KimisisHamptons

http://kimisishamptons.org/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimisishamptons/sets/72157635125916609/ John Mindala

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimisishamptons/sets/72157635126467321/

http://www.goarch.org/chapel/liturgical_texts/consecrate_church

http://hagiasophiatourguide.com/history/-Hagia Sophia, which is considered as one of the eight wonders of the world,

Photo1- Transfiguration Church First Prize Thyranixia photo by Tom Tsounis

Photo 2- Rev. John Codis with clergy at Vespers. All photos by Stavroula Raia.

Photo3- The Archbishop blessing.

Photo4- His Eminence preparing entry into church

Photo5- Mrs. Daisy Moraitis entering first, assisted by founders Pericles and Toula Bakas and Coula Johnides.

Photo6- Liturgy in new church.

Photo7- The community presented His Eminence with a sculpture in the frame of an icon created by Paul Maus.

Photo8- His Eminence gave the community the gift of an Epitafios of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

Photo9- Several columns, such as those in Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.

St. John the Baptist Church

St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church at 143 East 17th Street near Third Avenue, New York will hold a Greek Food Festival on Saturday, September 28, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

“Once again we are getting ready for our OOOPA Greek Food Festival at St. John`s,” Very Rev. Vasilios Bassakyros, Proistamenos said. “We will be sending out donation slips for items needed for the Festival. Please take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to become part of our fund raising efforts at St. John`s. The thousands of walkthroughs on that day have an opportunity to see and taste not only our delicious food, but also our Greek Orthodox hospitality.”

“Our first Greek Festival as held to commemorate the 60^th anniversary of St. John the Baptist Church,” said the Archimandrite. “We are now celebrating the 72^nd Anniversary of our Festival. We will have Greek food, a flea market, dancing, desserts, oils and fragrances to help support our outreach effort.”

Father Vasilios, an American born Greek-American with roots in Kastoria, Greece, initiated a unique revival. “In June 2010, our church was in a decline,” he explained. “Our membership was low. The weekly participation was at a standstill. I left the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, facing a challenge. In my first year, I instituted a Thursday night bible study. I opened the church to the community 6-7 days a week for the community. Our sacraments of marriage, baptism and funerals every year are on the rise. We began a “Mommy and Me” program, Greek language study and Greek folk dancing classes. Our conversions to Greek Orthodoxy are increasing. I look forward to a future community of diverse Orthodox Christian groups as in the early years of the church’s history.” My Mother who lived in the old tenements, at 33^rd St. between third and fourth avenues, attended St. John the Baptist church. Now in 2013, my daughter and her husband attend services. St. John the Baptist is a beacon of light to all who want to worship Greek Orthodoxy.

The Parish council members and church personnel are listed at http://stjohn.ny.goarch.org/. For more information, contact Tel# (212) 473-0648 * www.stjohn.ny.goarch.org Email: saint.john2011@gmail.com; Philoptochos Society e-mail: stjohnphiloptochosnyc@gmail.com.

Links:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idjLqFg5Ldc- video of 2012 Greek festival

http://stjohn.ny.goarch.org/Festival.dsp- festival flyer