An outdoor barbecue of souvlakia and baby lambs was held on Sunday, May 7 at the Geros Tou Morea chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation of America celebration on Sunday, May 7. The event took place at an NYPD closed street in front of the clubhouse at 27-02 39th Ave., Astoria. With cars looking to cut into 27^th St. and 39^th Ave, the NYPD police presence was needed.

Lambs were barbecued for authentic Greek cuisine by Apostolos Lagos, Chairman, and his staff.  He supervises the barbecues of the summer picnics. “I enjoy helping,” he said. “I have been at the clubhouse all week preparing for this social. Mr. Demetrios Tsiavos of Broadway Meat Market on 21 St. and 21 Ave. donated his services in marinating the lambs and souvlakia. Tina Vournas is in charge of the youth group.

Demetri Valkanas grew up down the street from the cultural center. “My father wanted us to be close to people from his village,” he said. “My father, George, who passed away suddenly a four years ago, taught me to love Greece and be fluent in the language. My grandfather, Demetri, and his three brothers fought in WWII on the Albanian front. Only my grandfather survived. My grandfather’s three brothers, Andreas, Panagiotis and George, were German prisoners of war. They were executed in Tripoli, for missing a curfew.  My father was a member of Geros Tou Morea when he immigrated in around 1957.” He is chairman of the Education Committee and Dance Group.

The 2017 Executive Board includes: Chris N. Vournas, president; Apostolos Lagos, 1st vice president; Demetrios A. Filios, 2nd vice president; Evangelia Sarfoglou, general secretary and Demetris Boregioukos, treasurer. Founders were Tom Angelopoulos, Mike Bakopoulos and Alexander Sioris.

Jacqueline Christopher Waldman, a Queens H.S. student at the Baccalaureate School for Global Education in Astoria, New York, was selected by the Mid Atlantic Greek American Foundation to receive the Eleftheria Scholarship. The Eleftheria Scholarship was presented at the 30th Anniversary of the Hellenic News of America on Sunday, November 12, 2017.

This scholarship was established in honor of the Hellenic News of America, the unifying voice of the Greek American community. Aphrodite Kotrotsios, Co-Publisher of the Hellenic News of America said “through your hard work and determination you have proven to be a student that Your Community Foundation and Newspaper want to recognize and encourage to continue your educational effort. The award value and other information about your scholarship are provided below. You have been awarded the scholarship from the Velventino Society. We hope that this scholarship will assist you in your upcoming academic year.”

Co-publisher Aphrodite Kotrotsios explained “it is our hope that you stay connected with the Hellenic News of America as an ambassador as you continue on your path. We are interested in hearing about your academic plans, activates and goals. Please feel free to write to us about your news, your community’s news and developments. Congratulations and best wishes for a productive and successful academic year.”  Ms. Christopher-Waldman is a fifth generation Greek-American From Cephalonia and Limnos.

Prof. Demosthenes Triantafillou was honored as “Educator of the Year” in 2018 by a Greek Media outlet. A filled room with diplomats, businessmen, educators and parents came to honor Prof. Triantafillou for his unselfish, dedicated work in Long Island City New York.

“We all came from New Jersey for Educator Demosthenes who believes in Hellenism,” said Father Christos L. Pappas, protopresbyter of the Ascension Greek Orthodox Church of Fairview, New Jersey. “He has given to our church school. We are blessed with a very advanced and accomplished Greek afternoon school with classes ranging from kindergarten through ninth grade. We would not have the school we have if it was not for him.”

Prof. Triantafillou in his acceptance speech explained “Our Ascension has a complete Junior-High Gymnasium Program with grades 7, 8 and 9.

In 2007, the School Board decided that graduation will be taking place at the end of 9^thGrade. The NY State Regents Exams are recommended to be taken at the end of the 9^th Grade. Students who complete the 9^th Grade can also take the Ellinomathia Level I and II Exams. Our goal is to give our youngsters of our community the chance to learn advanced Greek in the upper grades!  It is a privilege!” Over twenty persons attended from the Ascension Church.

Principal Triantafillou is one of the most fascinating, enthusiastic and humorous educators I ever met,” said Kosta Koutsoubis, a parent at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Saviour in Rye, New York. His communication skills with students and peers are exceptional. He is a man of humility who gives merit to persons of achievement without self-interest. This is the type of man who encourages Hellenism.”

Fanny Zicopoulos, retired educator, recalls “Principal Triantafillou built St. Demetrios High School. I was honored to be selected as one of the creators of a kindergarten book for the Greek program. At the time, in 1979, materials did not exist. We created the first book with on of Principal Demosthenes Triantafillou, ” The book is entitled “Mathaino Ellinika”( I Learn Greek): First Book for Kindergarten. It was part of a series of three books.

Prof Triantafillou’s experience as an educator includes tenures as a public school assistant principal – he is licensed as a principal and a superintendent in New York State – and he is currently the director of the Greek schools of the of the Ascension Church in Fairview, NJ and of The Church of the Savior in Rye, NY.

He is President of the Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus”, who attended in full force. “We have a new vision: stabling a Pedagogical Greek Teacher’s Center in a NYC university. I am committed to having the Association take the lead in establishing a pension fund for its members.” The evening can be summarized by the 4^th century B.C. orator Demosthenes who said, “Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprise.”

Photo 1- Prof Demosthenes Triantafillou with award

Photo 2 – Prof Demosthenes Triantafillou with award, Father Christos L. Pappas, protopresbyter of the Ascension Greek Orthodox Church of Fairview, New Jersey with parish members and Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus”.

Photo 3 – Mathaino Ellinika”( I Learn Greek): First Book for Kindergarten. It was part of a series of three books, that was first of its kind in 1979.

A Greek-American police officer has been hailed as a hero after he saved a Greek-speaking teenager who fell through ice.

Officer Constantine Saoulis came to the rescue of the 16-year-old last month after the youth had gone out on the ice in the Little Neck Bay area of Long Island.

The teen went through the flimsy ice sheet and it was only quick thinking by Saoulis, who shouted at the teenager in Greek to remain calm, which prevented the victim from panicking and going under.

Saoulis then dived into the freezing water and pulled the teen out.

111th Precinct Deputy Inspector William McBride said Saoulis – a 35-year-old father of three – had been awarded the ‘Cop of the Month’ title for his quick thinking and brave actions.

McBride told a NYPD Community Council meeting: “I have been attending the 111th Community Council meetings for 37 years… This was the first time I heard of an NYPD officer being a capable swimmer, like a lifeguard, saving a drowning youth.”

Saoulis, who is originally from the Ionian island of Cephalonia, said: “I almost didn’t make it.”

“I saw a young boy like my son. I felt I had to save him,” he added.

However, it is all in a day’s work for Officer Saoulis, who is also a former New York City educator with two master’s degrees in Education and Special Education.

“My education background motivated me to be a police officer,” he said.

President of the Greek Republic Prokopis Pavlopoulos and Mrs. Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers USA, attended the Feast Day of the Panagia Theoskepasti (Virgin Mary), the patron saint, in Andros on March 24^th.    A new message to Turkey, this time from the island of Andros, was sent by the President of the Republic upon his proclamation as an honorary citizen of Andros.

“In this context, we see the sea as an area of peace and peaceful coexistence and co-creation, with all the people and especially with our neighbors. And we remind them that a condition of this peaceful coexistence and coexistence is inherently the rules of international law which have been established…on the basis of friendship and good neighborliness, which we are sincerely seeking, is to make our seas, the Mediterranean and the Aegean, bridges that unite us…”¹ The President of Greece will attend NYC Greek Independence Day Parade on April 22^nd.

The Hermes Expo, a leading B2B trade show and exhibition networking series, returns in 2017 for its 26th year.

The trade show will take place on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at The Best Western Hotel in Concordville, Pa.

It will be followed by a second annual event, the Hermes Expo “A Taste of Greece,” April 24 and 25, 2017 at the Radisson Martinique Hotel on 32nd St & Broadway, in New York. A “Taste of Greece” features a round table discussion and a reception with Greek food and wine, a mini-trade show exhibition and plenty of networking. Past participants included leading food industry representatives and companies as well as representatives from Greece and the southeastern European Nations.

Hermes Expo is a leading trade show that brings together Greek-American and non Greek-American-owned business by providing them with a platform to showcase their products and services in front of potential customers from the United States and Europe. The Hermes Expo also hosts educational panel discussions and professional development seminars to help businesses grow.

Three Greek language organizations hosted an informative Greek language workshop on Saturday evening, April 8^th in the conference room of the Jay Suites, 6^th floor, at 575 7^th Avenue, New York City. A well-received number of New York residents were in attendance. The Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, The Organization for the Dissemination of the Greek Language with the cooperation of the “Blue Money Show” and Hellenic Paideia of America, Inc. hosted the event where the timelessness and importance of the Greek language was discussed.

The speakers included: Emeritus Professor Aristea Tolia, Univerity of the Peloponnese; Veloudia Papadopoulou, Theology professor at Athens University; civil engineer Costas Katsigiannis, vol. Gen. ESO Director; Catherine Chatzinikolaou, Administrative Officer of the Ministry of Education in the New York consulate; Nikos Papapostolou businessman, Vasiliki Filiotis President of  Hellenic Paideia of America, Inc. and Adriana Filiotis founding member of  Hellenic Paideia of America, Inc.

Points of discussion were: The importance of languages and cultures of the world; Greek as the basis of languages; every language contains Greek words; the language spread Christianity; European culture and civilization, of which Greece is a part, are rooted in ancient Greece;

Greece is the land of heroes, martyrs, poets, philosophers; it is an eternal symbol of Western civilization; the entire Western world has turned to Greek in its quest for a cultural identity;  Greek is important to the languages and cultures of the world. Greek recorded ancient philosophy and is the basis of languages; every language contains Greek words; the language spread Christianity.

Tourism, he said, is a key pillar of growth for the Greek economy, with a large contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), creating new jobs. Greece has 20,000 historical monuments. The history in combination with unparalleled natural beauty ranks Greece first worldwide in number of tourists.

President Vasiliki Filiotis stated that “we support Modern Greek language studies. We must transmit to future generations, the knowledge, culture, traditions preserved and passed on to us. The Greek language survives today because it has offered the world a unique contribution.”

President Stella Kokolis of the Federation of Hellenic-American Educators & Cultural Associations of America and President Vasiliki Filiotis of The Hellenic Paideia of America Organization worked behind the scenes to make this event a success. For more information, email kstellasr@gmail.com and vfiliotis@aol.com.

A distinctive approach to Sophocles’ play “Antigone” was presented by the Pancyprian Association of America Cultural Division under the direction of Leonidas Loizides on Sunday April 9. The play was held at the Queens Theater in Flushing Meadows Park, Corona, New York. Numerous Greek-American organizations supported the play that was acted in English.

“Who were they (Greeks) after all?” said Leonidas Loizides. “They were humanists! They put Man and Reason in the center of the universe. Antigone defines her behavior and is responsible for it. Creon stands against her as a guardian of the Law and warns us: he considered human justice an inextricable piece of the wider cosmic order and saw it collapse the moment he realized the position he put his child into. So, these two elements (Creon and Antigone): human power and human compassion are insolvably connected.”

Antigone was performed at the Great Dionysia festival of 442 B.C. Sophocles wrote tragedy as a response to the exile of Themistocles, the victor of the Battle of Salamis. The conflict between moral law and the law of the state reaches its peak, with the two protagonists unable to escape the tragic fate that has been decreed for them.

Hellenic Paideia of America Organization, under the leadership of President Vasiliki Filiotis, attended. “This play is of major importance in 2017,” she explained. Greek drama portrays universal values that are relevant in our time.” For more information on Hellenic Paideia of America Organization, email vfiliotis@aol.com and zfiliotis@aol.com.

Philip Christopher, President of the Pancyprian Association, Inc., explained his organization “promotes Hellenism and the Hellenic values and ideals. All our Divisions, Athletic, Women, Youth, Choir, Dance and Culture host numerous events every year to remind all of us that our heritage, culture and traditions must be cherished and protected.”

Mr. George Kitsios, President of the Greek American Homeowners Association (GAHOA) and Mr. Peter Louca, President of the Asgata Association of America attended. President Louca invites all to attend the June 25^th memorial service for the fallen heroes of the 1974 Turkish Invasion at the Transfiguration of Christ Church, Mattituck, N.Y. President Louca enlightened me, a child during the Cyprus Civil War against the English Commonwealth, on the island’s liberation efforts. For more information, email plouca46@optonline.com.

The following director, producer and actors were involved: Leonidas Loizides, Director; The Pancyprian Association of America Cultural Division, Producer; Francesco Andolfi, Assistant Director; Flavia Sgoifo, Production management & Public Relations; Gregory Christopher Papadakis Post, Composer;  Antigone, Dori Levit; Creon, Francesco Andolfi; Ismene, Flavia Sgoifo; Teiresias, Eftychia Loizides; Haemon & Sentry, Lirenzo Lucchetti; Messenger, Dori Levit; Eurydice/Voice, Anna Tsoukala; Choragos, Gary Fizer; Chorus, Andre Campbell, Julie Gaarskjaer, Anthony Martinez, Lorenzo Possanza and Ariana Wellmonety. I was impressed with the singing of Anna Tsoukala and Francesco Adolfi as a tortured Creon. For a more accurate list of performers, donors and personnel, contact Philip Christopher at pc@americannetworksolutions.com.

Album:

https://goo.gl/photos/g2t6Mz3mM3JbXe3P9

Dr. John G. Siolas presented his current book at the April 6, 2017 SJU 20^th anniversary. His book, “The Greek American Experience III” is a comprehensive exploration of the Greek language and culture. This analytical book includes the most up to date Hellenic websites and links to major articles and studies on the Greek language and civilization. Also included is information on current scholarship opportunities and a complete listing of Greek American societies and foundations.

Dr. Siolas is an Associate Professor of Education, Graduate Division, School of Education and Psychology at Touro College for the past thirteen years. Born in Arcadia, Greece, his academic credentials include a B.A. from Marist College in 1973; M.S. in Education, SUNY in 1974 and a PhD. from New York University in 1984. During his academic career, Dr. Siolas was a Teacher at St. Basil’s Academy, Garrison, NY 1967-1975; Florida State University Teacher Training Fellow 1976-78 and  Education Administrator for the Board of Education of the City of New York from 1975 – 2005.

His works include books and numerous articles about Greece, children’s textbooks and bilingual education texts. His honors include: 2016 recognition for his service as past president at the Fortieth Anniversary Luncheon of the Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” in the presence of His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios and Dr. Theodosis Pelegrinis, Deputy Minister of Education of Greece; the 2013 Hermes Award given by the Federation of Hellenic American Educators  at the Dinner Awards Reception of the 22nd Hermes International Expo; “Educator of the Year (HAEA) in 1987; the NY State Incentive Award 1974. and “Educator of the Year” by The Hellenic American Educators Association of the UFT (HAEA) in 1987.  Dr. Siolas was selected by the Alexander S. Onassis Public Benefit Foundation to be a Visiting Professor for the spring 2007 semester at the University of Athens, Department of Linguistics. Greek Cultural Presentation was presented to over 100 seniors in eastern Queens and to Dr. John G. Siolas on March 21, 2015. For more information, Email:john.siolas@touro.edu.

A spring workshop series for Teachers of the Greek Language is being held at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Flushing, New York. Mrs. Maria Makedon, Director of the Direct Archdiocesan District Office of Education with Dr. Thalia Hadzigiannoglou, Education Consular of the Greek Consulate General in New York have organized this series.

“This Pedagogical Program was the child of our proposal at our 40th Honorary Luncheon of PROMETHEUS,” explained Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” President Demosthenes Triantafillou. “The Program of Mrs. Makedon has been inspired by the PROMETHEUS proposals and the Program at the Ascension School in Fairview.  PROMETHEUS has opened new educational horizons for Pedagogical Programs, to meet the professional needs of the Greek Teachers. PROMETHEUS will continue with its vision to solve problems and to benefit the Members of PROMETHEUS.”

An outdoor barbecue of souvlakia and baby lambs was held on Sunday, May 7 at the Geros Tou Morea chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation of America celebration on Sunday, May 7. The event took place at an NYPD closed street in front of the clubhouse at 27-02 39th Ave., Astoria. With cars looking to cut into 27^th St. and 39^th Ave, the NYPD police presence was needed.

Lambs were barbecued for authentic Greek cuisine by Apostolos Lagos, Chairman, and his staff.  He supervises the barbecues of the summer picnics. “I enjoy helping,” he said. “I have been at the clubhouse all week preparing for this social. Mr. Demetrios Tsiavos of Broadway Meat Market on 21 St. and 21 Ave. donated his services in marinating the lambs and souvlakia. Tina Vournas is in charge of the youth group.

Demetri Valkanas grew up down the street from the cultural center. “My father wanted us to be close to people from his village,” he said. “My father, George, who passed away suddenly a four years ago, taught me to love Greece and be fluent in the language. My grandfather, Demetri, and his three brothers fought in WWII on the Albanian front. Only my grandfather survived. My grandfather’s three brothers, Andreas, Panagiotis and George, were German prisoners of war. They were executed in Tripoli, for missing a curfew.  My father was a member of Geros Tou Morea when he immigrated in around 1957.” He is chairman of the Education Committee and Dance Group.

The 2017 Executive Board includes: Chris N. Vournas, president; Apostolos Lagos, 1st vice president; Demetrios A. Filios, 2nd vice president; Evangelia Sarfoglou, general secretary and Demetris Boregioukos, treasurer. Founders were Tom Angelopoulos, Mike Bakopoulos and Alexander Sioris.

Jacqueline Christopher Waldman, a Queens H.S. student at the Baccalaureate School for Global Education in Astoria, New York, was selected by the Mid Atlantic Greek American Foundation to receive the Eleftheria Scholarship. The Eleftheria Scholarship was presented at the 30th Anniversary of the Hellenic News of America on Sunday, November 12, 2017.

This scholarship was established in honor of the Hellenic News of America, the unifying voice of the Greek American community. Aphrodite Kotrotsios, Co-Publisher of the Hellenic News of America said “through your hard work and determination you have proven to be a student that Your Community Foundation and Newspaper want to recognize and encourage to continue your educational effort. The award value and other information about your scholarship are provided below. You have been awarded the scholarship from the Velventino Society. We hope that this scholarship will assist you in your upcoming academic year.”

Co-publisher Aphrodite Kotrotsios explained “it is our hope that you stay connected with the Hellenic News of America as an ambassador as you continue on your path. We are interested in hearing about your academic plans, activates and goals. Please feel free to write to us about your news, your community’s news and developments. Congratulations and best wishes for a productive and successful academic year.”  Ms. Christopher-Waldman is a fifth generation Greek-American From Cephalonia and Limnos.

Prof. Demosthenes Triantafillou was honored as “Educator of the Year” in 2018 by a Greek Media outlet. A filled room with diplomats, businessmen, educators and parents came to honor Prof. Triantafillou for his unselfish, dedicated work in Long Island City New York.

“We all came from New Jersey for Educator Demosthenes who believes in Hellenism,” said Father Christos L. Pappas, protopresbyter of the Ascension Greek Orthodox Church of Fairview, New Jersey. “He has given to our church school. We are blessed with a very advanced and accomplished Greek afternoon school with classes ranging from kindergarten through ninth grade. We would not have the school we have if it was not for him.”

Prof. Triantafillou in his acceptance speech explained “Our Ascension has a complete Junior-High Gymnasium Program with grades 7, 8 and 9.

In 2007, the School Board decided that graduation will be taking place at the end of 9^thGrade. The NY State Regents Exams are recommended to be taken at the end of the 9^th Grade. Students who complete the 9^th Grade can also take the Ellinomathia Level I and II Exams. Our goal is to give our youngsters of our community the chance to learn advanced Greek in the upper grades!  It is a privilege!” Over twenty persons attended from the Ascension Church.

Principal Triantafillou is one of the most fascinating, enthusiastic and humorous educators I ever met,” said Kosta Koutsoubis, a parent at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Saviour in Rye, New York. His communication skills with students and peers are exceptional. He is a man of humility who gives merit to persons of achievement without self-interest. This is the type of man who encourages Hellenism.”

Fanny Zicopoulos, retired educator, recalls “Principal Triantafillou built St. Demetrios High School. I was honored to be selected as one of the creators of a kindergarten book for the Greek program. At the time, in 1979, materials did not exist. We created the first book with on of Principal Demosthenes Triantafillou, ” The book is entitled “Mathaino Ellinika”( I Learn Greek): First Book for Kindergarten. It was part of a series of three books.

Prof Triantafillou’s experience as an educator includes tenures as a public school assistant principal – he is licensed as a principal and a superintendent in New York State – and he is currently the director of the Greek schools of the of the Ascension Church in Fairview, NJ and of The Church of the Savior in Rye, NY.

He is President of the Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus”, who attended in full force. “We have a new vision: stabling a Pedagogical Greek Teacher’s Center in a NYC university. I am committed to having the Association take the lead in establishing a pension fund for its members.” The evening can be summarized by the 4^th century B.C. orator Demosthenes who said, “Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprise.”

Photo 1- Prof Demosthenes Triantafillou with award

Photo 2 – Prof Demosthenes Triantafillou with award, Father Christos L. Pappas, protopresbyter of the Ascension Greek Orthodox Church of Fairview, New Jersey with parish members and Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus”.

Photo 3 – Mathaino Ellinika”( I Learn Greek): First Book for Kindergarten. It was part of a series of three books, that was first of its kind in 1979.

A Greek-American police officer has been hailed as a hero after he saved a Greek-speaking teenager who fell through ice.

Officer Constantine Saoulis came to the rescue of the 16-year-old last month after the youth had gone out on the ice in the Little Neck Bay area of Long Island.

The teen went through the flimsy ice sheet and it was only quick thinking by Saoulis, who shouted at the teenager in Greek to remain calm, which prevented the victim from panicking and going under.

Saoulis then dived into the freezing water and pulled the teen out.

111th Precinct Deputy Inspector William McBride said Saoulis – a 35-year-old father of three – had been awarded the ‘Cop of the Month’ title for his quick thinking and brave actions.

McBride told a NYPD Community Council meeting: “I have been attending the 111th Community Council meetings for 37 years… This was the first time I heard of an NYPD officer being a capable swimmer, like a lifeguard, saving a drowning youth.”

Saoulis, who is originally from the Ionian island of Cephalonia, said: “I almost didn’t make it.”

“I saw a young boy like my son. I felt I had to save him,” he added.

However, it is all in a day’s work for Officer Saoulis, who is also a former New York City educator with two master’s degrees in Education and Special Education.

“My education background motivated me to be a police officer,” he said.

President of the Greek Republic Prokopis Pavlopoulos and Mrs. Stella Kokolis, President of the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers USA, attended the Feast Day of the Panagia Theoskepasti (Virgin Mary), the patron saint, in Andros on March 24^th.    A new message to Turkey, this time from the island of Andros, was sent by the President of the Republic upon his proclamation as an honorary citizen of Andros.

“In this context, we see the sea as an area of peace and peaceful coexistence and co-creation, with all the people and especially with our neighbors. And we remind them that a condition of this peaceful coexistence and coexistence is inherently the rules of international law which have been established…on the basis of friendship and good neighborliness, which we are sincerely seeking, is to make our seas, the Mediterranean and the Aegean, bridges that unite us…”¹ The President of Greece will attend NYC Greek Independence Day Parade on April 22^nd.

President Anastasios Stamboulis welcomed Orthodox families from the Hempstead, New York area to eat a Thanksgiving dinner together and celebrate the 90th anniversary of the AHEPA chapter of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral on the evening of November 6 at the Cathedral Center. The Constantine Cassis Chapter of AHEPA, headquartered at the cathedral, is committed to the ideals of “Hellenism, Education and to further the mission of the Order of AHEPA,” according to Stamboulis, and the dinner was attended by members of AHEPA, the Daughters of Penelope, the Sons of Pericles and Maids of Athena.

“Thanksgiving is an important ‘Thank You’ to our Veterans each day,
said Demi Pamboukes, District Governor Empire State-District 6. “We are able to vote, because of our Veterans who are willing to die for our shared values. We do not have religious persecution.”

Vice-President of National AHEPA Demetris Kokotas said “as Greek Americans we have the greatest history and tradition. We came to the greatest country in the world. We carry a torch, making the people before us proud.”

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 Greek-Americans to protect Hellenes from prejudice originating from the KKK. In its early years, 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 District Governor Empire State District 6 under the leadership of Demi Pamboukes and AHEPA Chapter 170 President Anastasios Stampoulis enthusiastically promote these ideals. The Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” supports the work of AHEPA through granting scholarships to students.

In addition, AHEPAN Elias Katsos will be honored with the Panagiotis Sekeris Award on November 17th at the 74^th Convention of the Pan Arcadian Federation of America. Mr. Katsos is President and Founder of the East Mediterranean Business Cultural Alliance and serves as AHEPA District 6 Lieutenant Governor. For information, contact  Anstamolis@aol.com.

A festive Christmas dinner of the AHEPA Family took place Sunday, December 9^th at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. Paul in Hempstead, New York. The dinner honoring charitable donors was hosted by the AHEPA Family of Hempstead Long Island, which has many area chapters.

AHEPA members in attendance at the dinner included Governor Demi Pamboukes, Lt. Governor Lou Katsos, District Marshal Paul Macropoulos, Director of Education Dr. John Siolas and Director of Civic Responsibility Anastasios Stampolis.

Demi Pamboukes, AHEPA District Governor, announced to the assembled crowd that local AHEPA groups have raised a combined total of almost $30,000 during 2018 to aid nearby Saint Basil’s Academy. St. Basils’ is the only residential Greek-Orthodox secondary school in the country.

President Anastasios Stambolis of the Constantine Cassis Chapter told the audience that St. Michael’s Home for Senior Citizens in Yonkers, New York is another charity which is currently benefitting from AHEPA donations. He also noted that AHEPA has contributed toward the ongoing expansion of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Stambolis also announced that the chapter continues to grow, with 100 new members initiated into AHEPA ranks that very day, the same day the chapter celebrated its 90th anniversary.

The Constantine Cassis Chapter of AHEPA is one of the most dynamic in the U.S. It is committed to the ideals of Hellenism and Education, and furthering the mission of the Order of AHEPA.

It consists of several chapters including Constantine Cassis, Daughters of Penelope Pasithea, Sons of Pericles Lord Byron, and Maids of Athena Victory.

For more information on AHEPA, please go to: www.ahepa170.org or contact them directly by emailing anstampolis@aol.com.

The Greek-American Teachers Federation, the Department of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and the Hellenic Paideia of America organized a day of celebration on March 10^th to honor the Greek language.

Greek has been declared as “an international language” by UNESCO, and this marks the third year that the language has had its own international day devoted to its appreciation.

As part of the worldwide celebrations of 2019 Greek Language Day, The Greek Ministry of Education wrote “It is important to learn and love the Greek language, because of its virtues but mainly because it has expressed a great culture, that shaped and codified the first and statutory layer of the upper vocabulary and the basic concepts of Western civilization.”

Over two hundred people attended the Stathakion Cultural Center’s celebration of the Greek language, Greek culture and the Greek Orthodox faith. The honorees for 2019 were Reverend Protopresbyteros John Antonopoulos, Dr. George Tsioulias, Vasiliki Filiotis and Stavros Haνiaras.

Each honoree received the “Historic Hellenic Language Award” and a certificate of recognition from Senator Michael N. Gianaris. New York State Assembly member Aravella Simotas praised the awardees, saying that they were all outstanding citizens.

She also presented the citations, which read in part: “a great state is enhanced by individuals who serve their communities with humility and distinction, which… so often goes unrecognized and unrewarded.”

Rev. Fr. John Antonopoulos is a longtime member of the Greek community of Astoria, and the only priest who has remained in Astoria ever since the 1960’s. Father Antonopoulos is universally known and loved in the Astoria community as a dedicated clergyman and one to be counted on in a crisis.

Now, Fr. Antonopoulos has a new title, that of writer/historian, upon the publication of his three books, all of which were based on primary sources. The new recipient of the Hellenic Language award told the assembled crowd of two hundred that “The wise men and great teachers say the humble support society… The church community is supported by the unknown and unseen deacons.”

For more information on Fr. Antonopoulos’ books, you may contact his office at (718) 728-8500.

Honoree Dr. George Tsioulis stated in his remarks that “We must teach, reach and motivate Greek American children… Teachers of the Greek language must integrate modern technology, such as the internet in their classroom, as well as use the own language of the students for motivation.

“Grandparents, parents and families must play a significant role in inspiring the students to learn the Greek language and culture. Cultural activities such as theater, dance, music and visits to Greece can help curb the dropout rate of Greek students from the Greek schools,” he added.

Hellenic Paideia President Filiotis stated in her address that “Parents must redefine their own ethnic identity, expressing their belief in Greek cultural achievement. They must come forward to offer their time and talents to perpetuate the Greek legacy.

“Greek education’s purpose is to provide students with the tools to become their own teachers throughout their life… We must study Greek in order to prevent our own decline. Greek is the language of the Bible and the basis of Christianity. It is the obligation of parents to support an education in the Greek language that will transmit these truths.”

Stavros Haviaras, the founder of the Chian Federation, is a larger-than-life figure who in his remarks said that he wants the next generation to love Greece, and his island of Chios.

Mr. Haviaras is an active member in the Greek Orthodox community. He is αn Archon, a Prince of the Church, of our Ecumenical Patriarchate, in the Order of Saint Andrew. Havarias was awarded the Historic Hellenic Language Award for his longtime involvement in the community and his continued efforts to keep our Greek culture and heritage alive.

Greek cuisine has a culinary tradition some 4,000 years old, and it is an indelible part of the history and culture of Greece. Its flavors change with the seasons and the geography of its origin. Greek cuisine, historically a forerunner of Western cuisine, spread its culinary influences via ancient Rome throughout Europe and beyond.

The 28^th Annual Hermes International Expo, sponsored by the Eastern Mediterranean Business Cultural Association (EMBCA) and the Queens Chamber of Commerce  hosted the gala event “Taste of Hellas” on April 11, 2019 in Queens, New York City.

For over 28 years, the Hermes Expo has been a facilitator for Greek, Greek-American and American businesses seeking to work together in our Hellenic and Philhellenic communities.

The expo has developed into a networking and educational platform which brings together thousands of people each year from various professional backgrounds. It has become a diverse exposition catering to a variety of ethnic groups and business partners.  Its motto is “it’s not about who you know, it’s about how well they know you.”

This year, the focus of the expo was “Trade, Tourism and Investment Opportunities Through Gastronomy” in honor of the sixteen businesses from Greece in addition to the American and Greek-American businesses participating in the show. Delectable samples of food and wines were provided by all the sponsors.

This year’s Expo participants included Eleftherios Kyriakakis, the founder of Mikel Coffee Company;  Panayiotis Koutsikos, Chamber of Commerce of Bulgaria; Salvatore Ritorto, Exec. VP of Greencrown Energy; and Andreas Kelemidis, Owner and President of Oinos Wines. A packed hall listened to discussions on finance, energy, trade, tourism and investment opportunities in Greece.

Vendors at the gala event included the Swift Joy Harmony Company, whose founding members originated in Smyrna, Asia Minor; Helen Hovris of Med Professionals-Greece; Louis Katsos, the recipient of the “2018 Pan-Arcadian Federation Geros tou Morea Chapter” award, and Jacqueline Donado, an associate of the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Ambassador of the United States to Greece, Geoffrey Pyatt, addressed the Expo in a letter read to the assembled crowd. He stated, “A key part of the Embassy’s work in Greece ls to build bridges for economic investment and cooperation between the United States and Greece. I also appreciate your ongoing efforts to promote commerce, communications and culture among businesses from both sides of the Atlantic.”

Aphrodite Kotrotsios, the newly-named publisher of the Hellenic News of America, told the crowd that “Prosperity is on the rise in Greece. Greek companies are once again looking for new opportunities in the United States. This year, for the first time, sixteen companies from Greece participated in Hermes Expo International 2019.

“Companies showed off Greek foods, wines and tourism opportunities. Greece presented products and services to American consumers and potential business associates. The Expo is a premiere destination for businesses looking to network and find new markets in the United States and abroad,” she added.

Kotrotsios has brought fresh eyes to issues facing the Greek-American business community.

“We need to combine efforts and work together to move forward,” she believes. “We are the next generation. It is up to us to keep the flame alive; we will pass on the torch to the next generations.

She continued, saying, “It is our duty to promote our Hellenic heritage. Helping one another prosper, grow and make a difference in our communities is our goal. We will fulfill this purpose as we unite, meeting the professional demands of the 21st century. We believe in our mission. The mission is you.”

An art exhibition was held Sunday, April 21 at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in  Whitestone, New York. But it was no ordinary art show — this one had a purpose of helping to introduce Greek art to a new, younger audience.

Artists Marianthi Raptis and Matina Botoulas have had numerous exhibitions in New York City. However, their dearest wish is to leave something to the next generation of Greek-Americans. “We want Greek art and culture transmitted to the next generation,” explained both the artists.

“I worked 30 years as a textile designer and colorist for home furnishings and wallpapers in NYC,” explained Marianthi Raptis. “I find great pleasure in expressing myself in art, painting different subjects. Landscapes, portraits, and flower painting are my enjoyment at this time of my life.”

Many of the paintings on exhibit portray idyllic scenes of the Greek countryside and the whitewashed buildings of Greek villages. One depicts a scene of a typical Greek bakery. Yet another portrays the vibrant red poppies of Greece as they first open to the sun.

There are also faithful representations of traditional Greek costumes and farming scenes of years gone by.

Describing her budding art career, Matina Botoulas says, “I am entering a road I never dreamed.”

The painter, a Greek native who lives in Flushing, New York, relates “I loved drawing from a young girl in Angelona, Laconia, Greece. I married my husband, Nick Botoulas of Tripolis, Greece. We immigrated to the US, raising our daughters Marilene and Georgia, while pursuing careers. At sixty-five, I began a career as an artist. I am inspired by my environment,” she says.

“My daughters inspired me with a gift of artist supplies. I began expressing in art my impressions of my surroundings.” she added.

Americans in general are not shy about entering new careers, regardless of age. In addition, retirement can be a time in which creative impulses can finally take flight and be fully explored.

The innovative paintings of both Greek-American artists show that not only can one find fulfillment in this creative pursuit later in life, but their artworks, showing scenes from bygone days in Greek history, can serve as a link to the next generation.

Marianthi Raptis and Matina Botoulas are the unsung artists whose colorful and joyous works remind the younger generation of the beautiful land their forefathers left behind.

All Photos by Marilena Botoulas