BLOOMINGTON, IN – For nearly a decade, since the time of the economic crisis, every spring, 24 students and graduates of Indiana University, Bloomington, are divided into groups and study the political, cultural, legal, and economic context of Greece, learning about the culture of the country, observing the habits of the Greeks and live their daily lives for ten days, but mainly they offer solutions and professional advice to Greek entrepreneurs who want to expand into the foreign market.

Their first contact with the history, political, economic, legal aspects of Greece takes place in their classroom in January, and a few months later, in May, they visit Athens and other cities and islands. Student and postgraduate research is part of the Business Culture Greece program, the inspiration and “soul” of which is a dedicated Greek, a dynamic woman and remarkable academic.

Tatiana Kolovou is a senior lecturer at Indiana University with a Business Communication specialty at the Kelley School of Business (considered the 10th best in the U.S.) and explains the rationale and idea of ​​this program to the Athens News Agency (ANA-MPA).

“Everything started when I went to Indiana in the United States in 1984, 35 years ago, to study and finally to live permanently, I had a family, and now I teach there. Mostly I have specialization in cross-cultural communication,” said Kolovou.

“The idea for this program came about at a Christmas party in 2009 when the rector asked me about Greece’s financial situation and then I told him that it is not just a Greek matter but also for all of Europe and therefore students should learn what is really happening. So, in 2011, I came to Greece with 20 students and one assistant and they all returned with excitement. Since then, I go once or twice a year, sometimes with 24 undergrad students and sometimes with 24 postgraduate students, separately.”

To this day, Kolovou has brought more than 300 students to visit Greece. “Let’s say it’s an academic trip with business meetings and it’s not purely tourism. There are initially around eight to nine business meetings that we do, while going to museums and walking around the city so that students get in touch with Greek reality. For example, this year we will go to Aegina to visit the pistachio cooperative where the children will go to the fields and learn about the production and export of the main product of the island. All this research that students do is their job. In the end, we will look at a subject on the political, economic, legal, history of Greece as well as on issues related to the European Union,” Kolovou told ANA-MPA and pointed out that the main objective of the whole project is to learn how active and entrepreneurial it is in Greece.

“I wanted to change the mindset of Americans who believed that the Greeks are lazy. I wanted to do something to help show the true face of my home country. That’s why I started the program and, of course, will continue it. Besides, what I seek and want every time I come back to America from Greece is for my students to tell those around them that Greece is not what they thought. Many even say that this journey has changed their lives. Do not forget that these are 19-year-olds some of whom have never before left the United States. They often believe any image they see through the press, on television, and it is totally different from what they see here. It opens their mind, they see something else and they love Greece,” she noted.

This year, Tatyana Kolovou’s class at Indiana’s Kelley School of Business will focus on the Greek company My Odyssey, a travel agency.

“We make thematic trips to Greece, highlighting our country’s culture, products, gastronomy, and history. Our headquarters are here and also in Shanghai, China, where we launched Hellas House this year. We have found that China’s market is opening up; people want to travel not only three months a year, but all year round. So they come all year round,” says Fokion Drossos, co-owner of the company, who added that their next step is to establish themselves in the American market.

“With this program, Indiana University students worked on how to develop our business as best as possible in both America and China. There were three teams for America and three for China who presented us with their ideas and suggestions. It is very important for us because it gives us internal information from young people who have an opinion and know not only the U.S. market, but also China.”

As Mr. Drossos noted, “Students have approached the issue globally and have helped us with their proposals that are substantial and targeted, and indeed we will follow some of their recommendations. That is why I would urge other Greek companies to join this program, Business Culture Greece.”

Source: ANA-MPA, Katia Papadopoulou.

Australia and Greece have finalized a Work and Holiday Visa agreement making it easier for students to stay and study in each other’s country for a year, available for those in the 18-to-30-year old age bracket.

The agreement was being worked on for nearly five years and was ratified by the Greek Parliament in December, 2015 and will come into effect on July 1, SBS News said, offering 500 slots in each country for the recipients who are selected.

The agreement was finalised after a series of delays during the Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Terens Quick’s visit to Australia, where in February, he was declared persona non grata by the Pan-Macedonian Federation for backing a deal Prime Minister and Radical Left SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras made to give away the name of the province of Macedonia in renaming The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia to North Macedonia.

Quick was elected to Parliament as the top vote-getter for the tiny, pro-austerity, jingoistic Independent Greeks (ANEL) who are opposed to the name deal, leading party leader and former defense minister Panos Kamenos to pull out of a coalition with SYRIZA.

Quick didn’t go along with Kammenos as he would likely have lost his position as a minister if he did but he has been panned by critics for his about-face.

At a Greek Independence Day celebration in Australia, Quick was targeted again by some 20 protesters outside an event who screamed “traitors,” although the demonstration was far smaller than the previous one earlier this year.

Australia’s Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman welcomed the visa agreement and said, “Australia enjoys a great friendship with Greece and there has been much interest from Greece in participating in the Work and Holiday visa program. This announcement will provide more opportunities for work and cultural exchange between our nations,” said Neos Kosmos.

To become eligible for a second working visa, Greek nationals would have to perform specified work in regional areas. If they perform six months of regional work in their second year, they will be eligible to extend their stay in Australia for a third year, the paper also said.

The announcement takes the number of countries participating in the Working Holiday Maker program to 43. Melbourne is home to the largest Greek population, outside of Greece.

BETHESDA, MD – The Hellenic Writers’ Group of Washington DC (HWGW) under the auspices of the Hellenic Society of Prometheas hosted a talk and book signing by Calliopi Toufidou for her newly released children’s book, In My Grandmother’s Footsteps, at the Hellenic Center in Bethesda on March 23.

After the introduction by HWGW director Patty Apostolides, Ms. Toufidou spoke about her book and recited a charming poem depicting the love of a grandmother for her grandson. The book is narrated by Eleftherios, a young boy who shares his respect and love for his Greek grandmother. With touching stories, Greek customs and traditions, timeless values, and even traditional recipes, the book encourages children to build a life with values and dignity, to respect each other, to be united, and enjoy life with love and peace. The poems in the book are in Greek and English.

Born on the island of Zakynthos in Greece, also the birthplace of Greek national poet Dionysios Solomos, Toufidou spent her formative years in Athens and later studied Sociology in West London College, England. Upon her return to Greece, she entered the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Her first post was to the Greek Embassy in Washington, DC and then the Greek Trade Commission in Los Angeles. She has always been interested in Greek culture and traditions and while employed with the Greek Ministry, made several presentations at numerous universities and
institutions on the customs and traditions of different regions of Greece.

Toufidou also studied photography and has exhibited her work in Greece and the U.S. She chose one of her photographs for the front cover of her new book. She further expresses her love of art through acting in theatrical productions and writing poetry which has been published in numerous newspapers and magazines.

Her first book, From the Palate to the Spirit, was about the history, culture, and food of her beloved birthplace Zakynthos. Her children’s book is dedicated to all the grandmothers for the important role they play in our society.

In My Grandmother’s Footsteps by Calliopi Toufidou is available on Amazon.

BOSTON – Archbishop Stylianos of Australia passed away on Monday, March 25 at the age of 83, after a battle with cancer.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew learned of Stylianos’s death while officiating during the Divine Liturgy at the Annunciation church in Vafeohorion in Constantinople. At the end of Liturgy, he offered a Memorial Trisagion for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Stylianos.

Archbishop Stylianos was born in Rethymnon, Crete (29-12-1935), he studied at the Theological School of Halki, Constantinople. In late 1957, he was ordained to the Diaconate. Upon graduating and being ordained to the Priesthood in 1958, he received a scholarship from the Ecumenical Patriarchate to complete postgraduate studies in Systematic Theology and Philosophy of Religion in Bonn, W. Germany (1958-1966). In order to become a Doctor of Divinity from an Orthodox Theological Faculty, rather than from an analogous western Faculty, he submitted in 1965 his doctoral dissertation entitled ‘The Infallibility of the Church in Orthodox Theology’ to the Theological Faculty of the University of Athens.

Upon his return from Germany in 1966, he was appointed Abbot of the historic Patriarchal Monastery of Vlatades, Thessaloniki (14th cent.), within which he was requested by the Holy Synod of Constantinople to help establish, together with other scholars of the local Theological Faculty, what was to be called ‘The Patriarchal Institute of Patristic Studies.’ He soon became the Vice-President of that research centre, a role had for a few months before becoming President. Upon completing his post-doctoral dissertation under the title ‘The Dogmatic Constitution De Ecclesia of the Second Vatican Council’ (Thessaloniki), he became Associate Professor at the University of Thessaloniki in 1969. In the years immediately following, he also lectured at various academic institutions, within Greece and abroad, especially at the University of Regensburg, W. Germany. He was unanimously elected by the Holy Synod of Constantinople as Titular Metropolitan of Militoupolis and Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for Mount Athos in 1970 (residing at the Monastery of Vlatades).

Five years later, he was again unanimously elected Archbishop of Australia, arriving in Sydney in April 1975. He has published widely in Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology in international theological journals, and has represented the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Assemblies of the World Council of Churches and in bilateral Dialogues. From 1975 he also taught Orthodox theology and spirituality at the University of Sydney. He was unanimously elected in 1980 by all representatives of Orthodox Churches as their Chairman in the official Theological Dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church, while his Co-Chair, Cardinal Johannes Willebrands, was appointed by the Vatican. After serving faithfully for more than two decades in this highly responsible and difficult position, he tendered his third and final resignation (15th April 2003) – having attempted this twice before without acceptance – when he published an extensive Report, titled “The Misfortune of the Official Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox and the Roman Catholics” ([in Greek] Epistimoniki Epetirida of the Theological School, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, vol. 13, 2003).

He is also a recognized essayist and poet, having published 37 collections of poetry (all of these in Greek and some translated editions). For his outstanding contribution to European culture, and after being nominated by the distinguished Philologist of the University of Vienna, Professor Albin Lesky, he received from the relevant Committee the prestigious international award Gottfried von Herder in Vienna in 1973. Then, in 1980, having been nominated by the renowned writer Pantelis Prevelakis, Archbishop Stylianos received the Award for Poetry from the Academy of Athens. The University of Lublin, Poland, conferred on him an honorary doctorate (1985), while the Sydney College of Divinity awarded him its first ever honorary doctorate (2001). In 2005, he was acknowledged as a Professor by an independent academic panel of the Sydney College of Divinity. In 2014, he received Honorary Doctorate from the University of Crete. Archbishop Stylianos was also Dean and Founder (1986) of St. Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College, Sydney, where he continually lectured in Systematic Theology.

NEW YORK – The Consulate General held its annual open house on March 22 in celebration of the 198^th anniversary of Greek Independence.

As expected, the turnout was massive. New York Hellenism crowded the Consulate General to commemorate the national holiday and March 25, 1821, the day that marked the beginning of the Revolution against the Ottoman yoke and 400 years of slavery.

Consul General Konstantinos Koutras gave the welcoming remarks and spoke of the importance of the Greek Revolution, Philhellenism, the importance of historical memory and the preservation of the Greek language and tradition as a necessary precondition for our survival as a nation, not forgetting of course the contribution of our Cypriot brothers to the liberation struggle. “Today’s event is a history lesson,” Koutras noted.

The Consul General said, “Maintaining our language, our history, our tradition is sine qua non of our survival – as a nation. We owe the survival of our nation and its progress to the Thinkers of Ancient Greece, to Heroes of ’21, to all those who have been deprived, who sacrificed, fought against obscurantism, tyranny, to those who have never calculated the magnitude of the enemies of freedom and culture.

“We owe it to our ancestors, the pioneering Greek immigrants who founded the greatness of America’s Hellenism, made the Greek Diaspora strong and powerful so that today it is characterized as a ‘Valuable Power.’ That is why I urge you not to lose what our ancestors have bequeathed to us, as the poet (G. Seferis) says, ‘to rise up a bit higher’! Our times do not allow for rest; Freedom must not be taken for granted.”

In his speech, Koutras spoke about Philhellenism, not only in 1821 but also in the period of the Balkan Wars and the presentation to the public of a historic trophy from the Battle of Bizani. This battle, as it is known, was the key to the liberation of Ioannina during the First Balkan War.

With the aforementioned trophy, known as the Hutchison Loving Cup, the Nashville Greeks honored American Colonel Thomas Setzer Hutchison, who fought as a volunteer on the side of Greece and returned victorious back to the United States. The American Colonel, along with his significant contribution to the victorious outcome of the battle, led, along with Greek soldiers, 2,700 Turkish prisoners from the site of the battle to Corfu.

The trophy arrived at the Consulate General two days before the event, as a powerful tangible example of Philhellenism, by two Greek-Americans, historians and art collectors, Mike Peters and Peter Giakoumis, who want to offer the silver bowl for exhibition in a museum in Greece.

Koutras then introduced His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, who said, “I would like first to thank our exalted Consul General for organizing the celebration but also for what he said. The text of his speech should be in the hands of all of us and published in full. The exhibition, which is inaugurated tonight, may have the title ‘apollumai,’ (I’m sorry) but the slogan should be ‘I am not sorry’ tonight, because our conquerors and rulers have not succeeded in eradicating us.”

Archbishop Demetrios praised not only the self-sacrifice of the revolutionaries, but also their ingenuity, saying, “In a moment the Revolution of 1821 was in a very difficult position because of the lack of money. Thus it was decided to sell the gold and silver objects of the Church in order to cut coins, as the struggle was considered more important.”

His Eminence left early for the Salutations to the Virgin Mary.

Meanwhile, the event, also served as the opening for the art exhibition by Giorgos Taxidis, curated by Tiffany Apostolou.

Taxidis has roots in Pontos and this year marks the 100th grim anniversary of the Pontian Genocide. The artist attempts to convey the feelings of exile and immigration as he experienced through his family’s history first from Pontus to Russia and then from Russia to Drama. Like many other immigrants, Taxidis’ grandparents took with them, as sacred objects, a bit of soil from their homeland and an icon.

Taxidis told The National Herald, “The title of the exhibition comes from the ancient Greek word ‘apollumai,’ which has the meaning of both absence and loss. The word is found both in biblical texts and secular ancient Greek texts and has a special power. The story is personal but also universal. Many people approached me today telling me, ‘my grandparents also left that way,’ ‘I remember myself with my mom just like that.’ This connection to the viewer is also the goal of the exhibition.”

Phyto Stratis along with the Cyprus New York Productions performers enriched the event with songs related to the history of Greece and the fight for freedom adding another patriotic element to the evening.

It was also announced that the Apostolopoulos Family Medical Association of Athens is offering the Greeks of America the “Omogeneia Card” free of charge, providing the opportunity for medical treatment at the Medical Centers of the Group during their stay in Greece.

Present at the event were, among others, the Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations Ambassador Maria Theofili, Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the UN Ambassador Kornelios Korneliou, Consul of Greece Lana Zochiou, Consul General of Cyprus Alexis Phedonos-Vadet, Federation of Hellenic Societies President Cleanthis Meimaroglou, Professor Nikos Alexiou, AGAPW President Olga Alexakos, President of the Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce Nicolas Nicolaou, New York City Greek Film Festival Director Maria Tzobanaki, Mimi Denissi, Hellenic Film Society USA President Jimmy DeMetro, and Yanna Darili.

The event was sponsored by Emirates Airlines and wine from the Pangregorians and Nico Lazaridis Winery.

ALBANY, NY – Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris’ resolution recognizing March as Greek History Month in New York State was recently adopted in honor of Greek Independence Day, March 25th.

Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris said, “As the son of Greek immigrants, I am proud of all the Greek-American community contributes to the cultural, social, and political life of New York State.”

Senator Gianaris is the first Greek-American to hold elected office in the City of New York. Additionally he hosts a celebration of Greek Independence with local Queens leaders each year.

Co-sponsors of the resolution are Senators Andrew Gounardes (D-22), James Skoufis (D-33), Daphne Jordan (R, C, IP, RFM-43), and Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. (D-15).

The full text of the resolution follows:

Senate Resolution No. 629
BY: Senator Gianaris

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaimMarch 2019, as Greek History Month in the State ofNew York, in conjunction with the commemoration ofthe 198th Anniversary of Greek Independence

WHEREAS, The year 2019 will mark the 198th Anniversary of GreekIndependence; and

WHEREAS, The Greek people proudly trace their heritage back thousands of years in Europe, where they developed an advanced civilization unlike any the world had yet seen; and

WHEREAS, Upon the fall of the City of Constantinople in 1453, theGreek people began almost four centuries under foreign rule in theOttoman Empire; and

WHEREAS, In March 1821, the yearning for Greek independence inspired multiple militias to engage in battles against the Ottoman Empire including an incursion into Moldavia led by Alexandros Ypsilantis, and various skirmishes in the Peloponnese, and on several islands; and

WHEREAS, On March 25, 1821, Bishop Germanos of Patras raised theGreek flag at the Monastery of Agia Lavra in the Peloponnese, marking the beginning of the war for independence; and

WHEREAS, In January 1822, the Greeks officially declared independence from the Ottoman Empire; and

WHEREAS, The Greeks valiantly waged war against their Ottoman rulers under the brave leadership of Theodoris Kolokotronis for almost nine years until a part of modern Greece was declared independent; and

WHEREAS, The war of independence was formally concluded in 1832 with the signing of the Treaty of Constantinople, further expanding the borders of a modern, independent Greek state; and

WHEREAS, March 25th is celebrated as Independence Day in Greece and in Greek communities around the world, commemorating the beginning of the war of independence; and

WHEREAS, Throughout history, the Greek people have exhibited an enduring sense of bravery in rising up against oppressors; with WinstonChurchill noting in a famed World War II speech that “Until now we used to say that the Greeks fight like heroes. Now we shall say: The heroesfight like Greeks”; and

WHEREAS, Ancient Greece has shaped modern society by originating the concepts of Logic, Science, Lyrics, Philosophy, and History as well as being the birthplace of democratic ideals, inspiring the notion of participation in government which influenced the framing of the UnitedStates Constitution; and

WHEREAS, Greece has continued to enrich our culture in the fields of literature, philosophy and architecture, and has promoted the modernOlympic Games, hosting the first in 1896 and most recently in 2004; we also honor Greek-Americans in New York who have improved our community, shown love for family, and shared with us their traditions to learn and celebrate; and

WHEREAS, The great State of New York has been blessed in many ways, including through the presence of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese ofAmerica; it serves as a beacon of moral and ethical guidance throughout the hemisphere from its Manhattan headquarters; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York is further enhanced by its long-standing partnership with the Federation of Hellenic-AmericanSocieties, which continues its tradition of strong leadership within theGreek-American community; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize thoseNew Yorkers of Hellenic descent for their enduring contributions to the educational, social, moral and economic principles that are so deeply ingrained in the fabric of our country and State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2019, as GreekHistory Month in the State of New York, in conjunction with the commemoration of the 198th Anniversary of Greek Independence, and to publicly encourage the citizens of New York to reflect upon the contributions of the Greek community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, and His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the GreekOrthodox Church of America.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A former Trump campaign aide central to the early days of the FBI’s Russia investigation said the FBI wanted him to wear a wire to record conversations with a professor who had told him the Russians had dirt on Hillary Clinton.

Greek-American George Papadopoulos, the first of five Trump aides to plead guilty and agree to cooperate in special counsel Robert Mueller’s recently-concluded investigation, told House lawmakers and staff in a closed-door interview last October that he rejected the FBI request.

A transcript of that interview was released Tuesday by the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee as part of an ongoing effort to sow doubt about the origins of the FBI’s investigation into possible coordination between Russia and President Donald Trump’s campaign. Mueller ended his investigation last week without finding a criminal conspiracy between Russia and the Trump campaign to affect the 2016 presidential election, according to a Justice Department summary of his findings released Sunday.

Papadopoulos was a vital figure in the early days of the FBI’s investigation. The revelation that Papadopoulos had learned in an April 2016 meeting in London that Russia had “dirt” on Democrat Hillary Clinton in the form of thousands of stolen emails helped kick start the FBI probe months later.

In his interview with lawmakers, Papadopoulos says an FBI agent asked him during a 2017 encounter to wear a wire to a record future conversations with the Maltese professor, Joseph Mifsud, who he has said told him about the “dirt.”

“And he basically told me that Washington wants answers and you’re at the center of this, something like that to make it seem like I was in some deep trouble if I wasn’t going to wear a wire against this person,” Papadopoulos said, describing his conversation with the agent. “I rejected it.”

The FBI did not immediately return an email seeking comment.

Papadopoulos said he wasn’t sure what to make of Mifsud’s claim about Russia having dirt on Clinton since, at the time, “people were openly speculating about that.”

“So yeah, it was an interesting piece of information, but you know, by that point you have to understand, he had failed to introduce me to anyone of substance in the Russian Government,” Papadopoulos said. “So he failed to do that, but now all of a sudden he has the keys to the kingdom about a massive potential conspiracy that Russia is involved in.

Papadopoulos pleaded guilty last year to lying to the FBI about his conversations with Mifsud and was sentenced to 14 days in prison. Papadopoulos has been promoting a new book called “Deep State Target: How I Got Caught in the Crosshairs of the Plot to Bring Down President Trump.”

The Papadopoulos transcript is the latest release over the last month from Rep. Doug Collins, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee. Other transcripts recently made public include those of Justice Department lawyer Bruce Ohr and ex-FBI employees Peter Strzok and Lisa Page, all steady targets of Trump’s outrage.

___
By ERIC TUCKER Associated Press

Read the transcript: http://apne.ws/Bk8yMYk

MELBOURNE – Climate change and the coordination of actions by Greek Chambers of Commerce abroad dominated the discussions that took place under the Nostos III programme in Melbourne.

For the first time, Greek, Cypriot and Egyptian chambers of commerce located abroad, and in this case in Australia, will be placed under the umbrella of a coordinating body so that expatriate entrepreneurs can work more productively in the interests of the economy of the states where they live as well as their country of origin, Deputy Foreign Minister Terens Quick stressed in a statement.

Συνάντηση του ΥΦΥΠΕΞ Τ.Κουίκ στο Γενικό Προξενείο του Σίδνεϊ με Eleni Petinos, Sophie Cotsis, Steve Kamper, τους τρεις ομογενείς βουλευτές της Νέας Νότιας Ουαλίας.Ο Ελληνισμός κράτησε τις κοινοβουλευτικές δυνάμεις του στις πρόσφατες εκλογές pic.twitter.com/nTJP5x6c60

— ΥΦΥΠΕΞ Τ. ΚΟΥΙΚ (@YFYPEX) March 27, 2019

“The open debate between important business people of Melbourne and Australia in general, with the participation of presidents and representatives of Greek chambers of commerce, was extremely encouraging. We began the first substantial recording of how business activity could be stepped up to and from Australia to countries of origin, with a key pillar being the involvement of our businesses abroad,” Quick said at a press conference after the end of the two-day sessions of Nostos III programme.

He also pointed out that the chambers of Greece and Cyprus in Australia have already started their cooperation and announced that it was agreed to include the Arab-Australian Chamber, based in Melbourne, a chamber representing Egypt and more than 30 countries in the Arab world, in this “alliance”.

Πρόγευμα εργασίας ΥΦΥΠΕΞ Τ.Κουίκ στην ελληνική λέσχη Σίδνεϊ, με Προέδρους Ομογενειακών Φορέων & διακεκριμένους ομογενείς από τον επιχειρηματικό & ακαδημαϊκό κόσμο.Συζήτηση & για θέματα Παιδείας & πολιτιστικών δράσεων pic.twitter.com/bGsdWngK29

— ΥΦΥΠΕΞ Τ. ΚΟΥΙΚ (@YFYPEX) March 27, 2019

WASHINGTON, DC – On March 26, just after Greek Independence Day, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, and Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) introduced a resolution calling on Great Britain to return the Parthenon Marbles to Greece.

The Marbles were removed from Greece 200 years ago by Thomas Bruce, seventh Earl of Elgin, and transported to Great Britain. The Marbles were part of a frieze that wrapped around the Temple of Athena. In 1816, the British Parliament voted to purchase the Marbles and they now reside in the British Museum. Despite years of efforts by the Greek Government to retain the Marbles, it has been unable to negotiate an agreement with its British counterparts to return the Marbles to Greece.

“The Parthenon Marbles belong in Greece, with the Greek people,” said Rep. Maloney. “The marbles are some the country’s greatest examples of artistic expression and beauty and are vital pieces of Greek history. The people of Greece and those who visit from all around the world to see the magnificence of the Acropolis should be able to enjoy the Marbles in their rightful home. This resolution calls upon Great Britain to finally return these treasures.”

“Art provides a window into history and is the ultimate freedom of expression,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “The Parthenon Marbles were made by the citizens of Athens under the direction of renowned artist Phidias to celebrate the pride and majesty of the City of Athens. To not house and view these citizen contributions in the city they were originally intended does a disservice not only to the people of Athens, but also to the civilization that paved the path for modern democracy and freedom. I sincerely hope to see these original works and other important elements of Hellenic history finally returned to their rightful owner for future generations of proud Greeks to enjoy.”

“The Parthenon Marbles tell a story of celebration for Ancient Greece, and the marbles are important to Greek culture,” said Rep. Payne, Jr. “To best serve history and to ensure the world can enjoy ancient history in its proper context, the Parthenon Marbles should be returned to Greece.”

JERSEY CITY, NJ – His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey celebrated his name day and the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary (Evangelismos tis Theotokou) in the church of the same name in Jersey City on March 25. Among those present were the Consul General of Greece in New York Konstantinos Koutras and many faithful.

In his speech, Metropolitan Evangelos expressed joy and gratitude that, for yet another year, God granted so that he could celebrate his name day in the commemoration of the Annunciation.

He said, “It is for a small but great in history, love, effort, and charity parish. Today, however, we celebrate not only the Evangelismos of the Most Holy Theotokos but also the Evangelismos of our homeland, as this blessed day was chosen by our glorious ancestors, not by accident, to declare the Revolution against the Ottoman conquerors in 1821.

The Greek fighters, at the Monastery of Agia Lavra, placed the Virgin Mary as the patron of the Greek Revolution and, in front of the icon of the Virgin Mary, they gave their serious oath “Freedom or Death,” which they kept throughout, fighting with unparalleled boldness and bravery without any compromise. Thousands of Greeks, clergy and laymen, with the slogan from Rigas Feraios’ verse, “better to live one hour free than forty years as a slave and prisoner,” spilled their blood to drive out the gloomy darkness of enslavement and liberate our people.

As Orthodox Christians, we stand in awe in front of the glorious Theotokos, and we are grateful for her, because our salvation was sealed by her own supreme contribution to the work of Divine Economy. Our duty and sacred obligation is to be worthy of this gift, to remain firm and steadfast in our faith. I wish you many years, blessed and always free.”

Consul General Konstantinos Koutras said, “The Greek Revolution is a brilliant example of heroism, patriotism, and unity. Today, we honor the struggles and sacrifices of the liberators of our homeland. We also honor the universal values ​​of Hellenism and Christianity, such as democracy, virtue, dignity, faith and love for humanity. The great and important things we accomplished together. The Greeks of the Diaspora and philhellenes – lovers of ancient Greek grandeur, repaid the debt they owed, as they said, to Greece, by offering their own lives. Our story is part of our identity, which we must keep as an amulet, to stand out in society, and not assimilate.”

The presiding priest of the community, Fr. Apostolos P. Panos, wished Metropolitan Evangelos all the best for his name day feast and a good Lent to all the Greek community.

Parish Council President Dionysios Koukounaras told The National Herald about the church’s history. He said, “Our church was built in 1935 and for many decades the community flourished. But slowly, Hellenism began to move from the area. Today, although we have few members, we are still a dynamic community doing everything we can to keep the unique church, the only one in all of New Jersey dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.”

Philoptochos President Eva Stefanou noted that there are 35 ladies in the society, with the primary aim and purpose of strengthening and supporting the poor parishioners and non-parishioners as well.

Athanasios Vittas, former president of the parish council and for 60 years a member of the community, wished all Hellenes many years of health, joy, and prosperity.

Nicholas Holevas, also a former president and 54-year member, said that due to its geographical location, next to the port and Ellis Island, there were countless Greeks over the years visiting the church to light a candle and ask for help from the Panagia.

Following the Divine Liturgy, a meal was served in the community hall.

NEW YORK – The Architecture Engineering and Construction Committee of the Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce held its inaugural industry event: Remaking Cyprus: A New Era of Vertical + Horizontal Development, on March 26 at MEET@Soho in Manhattan. The event included fascinating insights by industry experts from Cyprus, focusing on how high rise tower and marina projects are affecting Cyprus’ economic and physical landscape.

Demetrios Comodromos, founding member of the Chamber’s Cyprus Young Professionals and co-founder of Method Design, gave the welcoming remarks noting his own experience as an architect and his most recent visit to Cyprus. The changes are impressive as foreign investors are attracted to Cyprus for many reasons, including, of course, the natural beauty of the island. He thanked all those in attendance including the Consul General of Greece Konstantinos Koutras as well as the guests, speakers, and sponsors.

The featured speakers were Stavros Caramondanis, CEO, Agia Napa Marina; Despina Chrysochos, PE, Cyfield Group; and Tasos Papaioannou, PE, Vice President Langan. Each presented their unique perspective on working on various projects internationally and specifically in Cyprus. The impressive buildings and projects currently under construction demonstrate the ways Cyprus is moving forward following the economic crisis.

Caramondanis pointed out how public private partnerships have changed the way projects get done in Cyprus. Foreign investment is also key to the progress of development. Caramondanis spoke about his family’s business, started by his father and his uncle, which is celebrating its 60^th anniversary this year, and specifically, how his father Gerasimos partnered with Egyptian billionaire investor Naguib to implement a long term strategic plan, aiming to set a new standard for premier luxury seafront marina living in the Mediterranean with Agia Napa Marina.

Chrysochos spoke about her company’s experience as one of the key players today in all areas of the construction industry in Cyprus. Cyfield is a group of companies dealing with land development, contracting, and energy. In Cyprus, land development activities focus on satisfying local demand for housing, from lavish individual homes and housing developments, to luxury apartment buildings and complexes. Commercial projects include high-specification contemporary office buildings, industrial developments, and government facilities.

Papaioannou spoke about how Langan provides an integrated mix of engineering and environmental consulting services in support of land development projects, corporate real estate portfolios, and the energy industry.

Their clients include developers, property owners, public agencies, corporations, institutions, and energy companies around the world. Originally from Greece, Papaioannou noted that having worked internationally, Cyprus is more open to change and overcoming problems in terms of economic and social issues which makes it more attractive to foreign investors.

After a Q&A session, the event shifted to networking. Comodromos gave the closing remarks, once again thanking all those present at the inaugural event and the sponsors for the food and drink.

Among those present were Trade Commissioner of Cyprus Aristos Constantine, Federation of Cypriot-American Organizations President Kyriacos Papastylianou, Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Nicolas Nicolaou, Founding President and Honorary Chairman of the Chamber Andreas Comodromos, Executive Director of the Chamber Despina Axiotakis, Theoharis David, Costas Kellas, and Cypriot Young Professionals President Jovanna Tannousis.

More information about the Cyprus-U.S. Chamber of Commerce is available online: https://www.cyprususchamber.com/.

PROVIDENCE – Ruth (Kojoian) Moragemos 87, of Smithfield Rhode Island, passed away on Monday, March 18. She was the beloved wife of George Moragemos, president of the Athenian Association of New England.

The late Ruth Moragemos was born in Providence, the daughter of the late Bartalomeo and Elizabeth Kojoian and worked as a social worker for the State of Rhode Island for many years.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her loving brother Arakel Kojoian, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews and relatives.

Relatives and friends attended her funeral service on Saturday March 23 in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Cranston.  Burial took place in North Burial Ground, Providence.  Contributions may be made to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 175 Oaklawn Ave., Cranston, RI 02920.

BOSTON – Hellenic College applicants and their parents arrived on campus the afternoon of Thursday, March 14, to a warm welcome. Rev. Fr. Gregory Floor, Director of Admissions and a Holy Cross alumnus, first introduced Rev. Fr. Christopher Metropulos, President of HCHC. Fr. Christopher told the visitors that at HCHC, as distinct from most campuses, “there is no holding back on faith. This is a place where people are always striving to better themselves in Christ.” The visitors then heard from another alumnus, Rev. Fr. Antonios Papathanasiou, who has returned to his alma mater as Dean of Students. The welcome concluded with remarks by Dr. Bob Murray and Betty Paganis of the Office of Spiritual Formation and Counseling Services, followed by Eileen Maguire, Academic Services Coordinator. All three emphasized the fact that students at HCHC are supported in all aspects of their lives here, not only academically.

After Vespers in Holy Cross Chapel, the applicants joined current students for dinner in the Condakes Cafeteria while their parents dined at an elegant inn nearby with Fr. Gregory, Dr. Kathleen Ryan of the Hellenic College faculty, and Dr. Bruce Beck, who teaches in both schools and is interim Dean of Hellenic College. After dinner, the applicants participated in a workshop conducted by the Office of Vocation & Ministry, a trivia competition, an ice cream social, and Great Compline service in the Chapel.

Friday morning after Orthros in the Chapel and breakfast applicants to Hellenic College met with Dr. Beck, then sat in on a sociology class. Holy Cross applicants met with School of Theology faculty before attending a class on Scripture in the Orthodox Church. Meanwhile, parents met with Fr. Gregory and learned about next steps for admissions and obtaining financial aid. After lunch, all of the visitors had the opportunity to tour the campus. Individual meetings with the Director Financial Aid, Michael Kirchmeier, were also available for applicants and parents, all of whom we hope to see again in September!

NEW YORK – The Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, notes with sorrow and dismay new reports that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan may convert the Hagia Sophia to a mosque.

According to the announcement, “Hagia Sofia in Istanbul is known throughout the world as the Great Church of Christ. Built in the sixth century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia was for nearly a thousand years the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the center of the Orthodox Faith, and the world’s most magnificent cathedral. Following the Muslim conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted to a mosque by Sultan Mehmet II, and became a museum in 1935.

“Turkish authorities have declared for several years now their intention to convert into mosque. On May 21, 2014, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) called “misguided” a bill that had been introduced in Turkey’s parliament to change the status of the Hagia Sophia to a mosque. USCIRF urged Erdogan “publicly to reject the bill and affirm that Hagia Sophia’s current status will be maintained.”

“While the status of the museum was not then changed, the Islamic call to prayer was conducted there for the first time in 85 years on July 1, 2016, and a permanent imam was assigned to Hagia Sophia. This was a violation of the monument’s formal neutral status. Archon leadership met in Washington on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 protesting this development and sought official criticism of this move from the U.S. government.

“Once again the status of the Hagia Sophia was not changed, but this issue has not been put to rest. On March 24, 2019, Erdogan was asked in an interview whether the Hagia Sophia would be converted to a mosque. He replied: ‘This is not unlikely. We might even change its name to Ayasofya Mosque.’

“The Order urgently requests that the United Nations and the U.S. State Department and Commission on Religious Freedom act to prevent this, given the Hagia Sophia’s importance for Christians and the deleterious effect this change would have upon Turkey’s embattled Christian minority. Converting the Hagia Sophia to a mosque would further undermine the position of the Christians of that nation, making their situation all the more precarious. We ask instead that the government of Turkey affirm its commitment to religious freedom and discard all plans to change the status of the Hagia Sophia.”

Source: www.archons.org

HELSINKI – Metropolitan Emmanuel of France was invited by Archbishop Leo of Helsinki and all of Finland to give a lecture at the meeting of the clergy of the Church of Finland.

The event was held in the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Helsinki and the subject of the lecture was The Holy and Great Synod of the Orthodox Church.

In addition to Archbishop Leo, Metropolitan Ilias of Oulu and Bishop Arsenios of Joensuu attended the meeting.

The Orthodox faith was the earliest form of Christianity to arrive in Finland. It spread to southern Finland and to the people of Karelia around Lake Ladoga through trade and other contacts with the East over 1,000 years ago.

During 19th century Russian rule in Helsinki, Viipuri (Vyborg), and the Karelian Isthmus, Orthodoxy was associated with the country’s ruling elite. However, many rural Finns, Sami, and Karelians are also members of the Orthodox Church.

After the Grand Duchy of Finland was formed under Russian rule during the early nineteenth century the Orthodox believers in Finland were placed under the jurisdiction of the Eparchy of St. Petersburg. In 1892, Finland was established as a separate diocese with its bishop’s see in Vyborg, separate from the Eparchy of St. Petersburg. Archbishop Anthony (Vadkovsky) was enthroned as the diocese’s first ruling hierarch.

Shortly after Finland declared independence from Russia in 1917, the Finnish Orthodox Church declared its autonomy from the Church of Russia. In 1923, the Finnish Church completely separated from the Russian Church, becoming an autonomous part of the Church of Constantinople. The New Calendar was also adopted, including the Western Gregorian Paschalion that sets the date for Easter, making it distinct from the rest of the Orthodox churches, whether following the New or Old Church calendar. Other reforms introduced after independence include changing the primary liturgical language from Church Slavonic to Finnish (other languages are used depending on the parish and its situation, e.g. Church Slavonic, Swedish, English).

The Archepiscopal seat was also transferred from the multicultural city of Viipuri to the Finnish-speaking city of Sortavala.

Until World War II, the majority of the Orthodox Christians in Finland were in Karelia. As a consequence of the war, many residents of that border province evacuated to other parts of the country. The monastery of Valaam was evacuated in 1940 and the monastery of New Valaam was founded in 1941 at Heinävesi. Later, the monks from Konevitsa and Petsamo monasteries also joined the New Valaam monastery. The nunnery of Lintula at Kivennapa (Karelian Isthmus) was also evacuated, and re-established at Heinävesi in 1946.

A new parish network was established, and many new churches were built in the 1950s. After the city of Viipuri was lost to the Soviet Union, its Diocesan seat was moved to Helsinki. A third Diocese was established at Oulu in 1979.

The Church of Finland has about 60,000 members and in recent decades, the membership has been steadily growing.

The principal Orthodox church in Finland is the Uspenski Cathedral in Helsinki, which is the largest Orthodox church in western Europe.

Its current primate is His Eminence Leo, Archbishop of Karelia and All Finland.

Within the one autonomous Church of Finland, there are three dioceses – Karelia, Helsinki and Oulu – administered by four bishops.

ASTORIA – The Board of Directors and the Cultural Events Committee of the Chian Federation cordially invite you to come to the Chian Federation on Thursday,  March 28 at 7 pm to celebrate My Greek Table with Celebrity Chef Diane Kochilas.

My Greek Table is on PBS on Sundays and its second season begins this April.

It showcases Greece and promotes the food, wine, history, culture, and cuisine of one of the most timeless cuisines and countries in the World.

The show reaches on average 2.2 million people per episode in the United States. The Chian Federation feels the need to support a show like this one since promoting and preserving our culture is at the core of its mission.

For reservations and additional information, call The Chian Federation office at 718-204-2550 or email: chianfed@chianfed.org.

More information about My Greek Table is available online: http://www.dianekochilas.com/my-greek-table-with-diane-kochilas/.

HARRISBURG, PA – A delegation from Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Camp Hill, PA led by a group of AHEPA Power District #4 and Chapter #64 brothers of Pennsylvania attended the Commemoration of Greek Independence Day at the State Capitol in Harrisburg on March 20.

Unfortunately, Cathedral Dean Rev. Michael Varvarelis and Assistant Presbyter Rev. Aaron Gilbert could not attend this year due to the scheduling conflict with the Clergy-Laity Conference in Pittsburgh. However, Fr. Varvarelis prepared “Greetings & Prayer” which Dr. Michael Billys read to the audience at the foot of the steps at the Capitol Rotunda. The day began with a tour of the Capitol followed by the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral choir soloist Diane Foutres who sang both the U.S. and Greek national anthems while accompanied by pianist Peter Ariano.

Holy Trinity’s dance group, the Olympic Flames, performed to the uplifting Greek music to the delight of the audience in the Capitol Rotunda. The dancers were co-directed by Ann Ariano and Mantha Demopoulos. These proud young adults dressed in traditional Greek costume danced magnificently.

The entire group was then honored with speeches from the highly esteemed Pennsylvania Representatives Ryan Mackenzie, Greg Rothman, and Sheryl Delozier followed by speeches from Senators Mike Regan and Maria Tzanakis-Collett who is a new member of the Senate and of Greek descent. All the legislators honored and praised for the members of the Greek community and their illustrious ancestors.  A commemorative photo was then taken of the entire group underneath the Capitol Rotunda.

The five honorees, Protopsalti Tom Paparoidamis; Lt. Colonel Vasilios Bobouzis of the Hellenic Army; distinguished professor at Hershey Medical Center/Penn State Dr. Zissis Chroneos; District Governor Charles Mackenzie from Allentown; and District Marshal Dr. Michael Billys, program coordinator, all Ahepans, were introduced to the entire body of the House of Representatives. Reps. Mackenzie, Rothman, and Delozier then issued a Proclamation in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania honoring Greek Independence Day.

Dr. Billys said, “It is truly an inspirational moment that I am enthralled with every year since I’ve been going there. I recommend that you witness this event!”

NEW YORK – Despina Kotsis is just 19 years old. Ever since she was a little girl she dreamt of designing clothes, and a year ago she made her dream come true.

She built her own company, MINX, with clothes which she designs and sells online, and her next objective is to open a store in New York.

She recently visited Greece for the first time, where she made a video to advertise not just her clothes, but also Greece; which she adores.

“For the first time in my life I visited Greece this year. It was beautiful, but I felt sad regarding the economy. I want to help Greece. I have roots in Thessaloniki, Evoia, and Halkidiki. When I went to Greece I couldn’t believe how beautiful it is. It is my home and I want to go back.”

Asked about the origin of MINX, she said, “Two years ago I was sitting at my backyard and I realized that since I was going to college soon, I should start doing something with clothes. So I thought of doing something with street wear, which is very popular.

Because I’m from New York, with so many different people, I get a lot of ideas from them. The collection doesn’t just include Greek clothes – I have influences from American fashion and Asian as well.

I chose the name ‘minx’ because while researching I noticed that all street wear collections had small names. So I looked up short words on google. I saw ‘minx’, which means stylish woman who flirts, and I liked it.”

SUPPORT FROM BIG FAMOUS GREEKS

Kotsis has been noticed by other successful Greeks. She told The National Herald, “I began just last year but the idea has been in my head for years. It’s now been one year since the beginning and it’s going really well. Nia Vardalos doesn’t even personally know me, but she supports me a lot on Instagram. She shared my collection twice on her page. So did two of Gianni Antetokounmpo’s brothers. Many celebrities are starting to see my clothes and slowly learn about my company, which I handle all by myself, I have no help. I design, produce, and photograph. It’s hard, but it’s my dream and I believe that if you work hard and you believe in yourself you’re going to make something out of it. My dream is to open a store in New York and later on have it become a chain – and of course, open a store in Greece as well.”

Despina is also studying at Saint John’s University to become a teacher.

“My parents are proud of me and support every step I take. If I have an idea or a problem we talk about it. I also love what I’m studying and I hope one day I’ll be able to do both of the things I love.”

Her impression by her first visit in Greece;

“I love Greece with all my heart. When I visited, I was at Lagonisi and on one wall someone had written ‘minx’ and had drawn my clothes with graffiti. I couldn’t believe it when I saw it. The video I filmed there I made by myself, and many of my friends and their acquaintances are in it too. I wanted kids from Greece to be in the video as well.

I have no words to describe it. I loved so many things. It was like a dream and I’m proud to say that I’m from there and it’s my home. I want to help Greece with my clothes because I’m proud to represent it.”

You can check out her collection on Instagram #MINXGREECE #MINXNYC and on the website: www.minxnewyork.com

HARTFORD, CT – Greek Independence Day was celebrated at the Connecticut State Capital in Hartford on March 25. Connecticut State Representative Themis Klarides served as the Master of Ceremony and was joined by her sister, Nicole Klarides-Ditria, also a Connecticut State Representative, as a speaker in the program. The Klarides sisters are the first two sisters serving simultaneously as State Representatives in the history of the State Legislature.

Themis was elected in 2018 to her 11^th term, and following the statewide elections was unanimously chosen for the third time as Republican House Leader by her Republican colleagues, the first female to ever hold the position. Her sister, Nicole, was also re-elected in 2018, and is now serving her second term. Themis and Nicole are the granddaughters of Greek immigrants, and grew up in a prominent Greek family in Seymour, CT, that ran two well-known supermarkets.

Amongst the numerous Greek-American organizations represented, Attorney Gregory J. Stamos, Past Supreme Counselor of the Order of AHEPA and President of the Hellenic Bar Association of Connecticut, represented both AHEPA and the Connecticut Greek attorneys and noted that the missions of both organizations encompassed the values so valiantly fought for by the Greeks asserting their independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1821; liberty, religious freedom, and self-determination. Stamos and the Klarides sisters grew up together in Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Ansonia, CT, a small parish that has now been merged with and been absorbed into St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church in Orange, CT.

All of the speakers lavished praise and appreciation upon Ilias Tomazos, the President of Hellenic Society Paideia and the Hellenic Studies Center at the University of Connecticut (UConn), who once again served as the organizer behind this celebration at the Connecticut State Capital. In particular, Professor Tomazos’ extraordinary leadership was extolled by Chris Skabardonis, President of the Pan-Gregorian Association, which has served as a major financial supporter of the Hellenic Studies Center at UConn for many years.

WASHINGTON, DC – The Hellenic Society Prometheas, in cooperation with the Hellenic organizations of the Washington DC area, on March 24, celebrated the 198th Anniversary of Greek Independence at Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in Bethesda, MD. Through the combined efforts of the many volunteers and the contributions of the organizations and area restaurants, this year’s celebration was once again a success. The Grand Hall was filled to capacity and included Deputy Chief of Mission of the Greek Embassy Theodoros Bizakis, Colonel Vasileios Lambropoulos, Defense Attache, as well as seven members of the Military Mission at the Greek Embassy. Prometheas Vice President Magdalene Kantartzi was the Master of Ceremonies.

The program began with four “evzones” (elite infantry unit) from Baltimore marching into the Grand Hall, followed by students from St. George, St. Katherine, Holy Apostles, and the Hellenic School of Potomac, dressed in national Greek costumes and carrying the Greek and American flags. After the opening prayer by presiding priest of St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral Rev. Steven P. Zorzos, Sophia Pelekasis, a student at St. Katherine, sang the National Anthems superbly in Greek and English. Next, Georgios Theodoridis, Chanter of St. Sophia Cathedral, chanted the beautiful hymn Ti Ipermacho.

After the salutary remarks by Hellenic Society Prometheas President Dr. Joanna Athanasopoulos Owen, Dr. Harris Mylonas, Associate Professor of Political Science and Foreign Affairs at George Washington University, presented the keynote address, “The Role of the Greek Diaspora in the War of Independence.”

Afterwards, Maria Anastasi Paschalidis on vocals and Aphrodite Mitsopoulou on piano delighted the audience with the Mikis Theodorakis song Ena to Helidoni. This was followed by Yianna Stasinoulia-Albanes’ tribute to the great hero of the Greek War of

Independence and leader of the Filiki Eteria, Alexandros Ypsilantis, who was honored in this year’s celebration. Andreas Voyiatzis, a student at Langley High School, recited the poem O Vrachos kai to Kyma (The Rock and the Wave) by Aristotelis Valaoritis.

More music followed with Pelekasis performing Miroloi, a haunting lamentation of Markos Botsaris; Paschalidis sang accompanied by Kantartzi on the piano, the traditional song, O Amarantos; and the St. George Hellenic Dancers entertained the audience with several Cretan dances.

The Fairfax Saxophone Quartet (Jim Francis, Mar-shall Wise, Brian Cole, Dan Hurlow) then played Athena and Ballos as well as their last song, the Kalamatianos, accompanied by Mitsopoulou on the piano, which inspired the guests to get up and dance.

A reception followed, made possible by the generous contributions and support from the co-sponsoring organizations, and the following: Greek Taverna Restaurant, Mykonos Restaurant, Nostos Restaurant, Stella’s Bakery, The Big Greek Café, and Olympiakos DC Soccer Club.