BOSTON – The Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate unanimously elected Metropolitan Nikitas of Dardanelles as the new Archbishop of Thyateira and Great Britain, succeeding Archbishop Gregorios who retired as of Wednesday June 12, 2019.

Metropolitan Nikitas is the Director of the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute in Berkeley, California.

The newly elected Archbishop of Thyateira and Great Britain made his first statement to The National Herald stating that “with much surprise I learned about my election as Archbishop of Thyateira. I have no words to express my gratitude to His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the members of the Holy and Sacred Synod for their trust in my person. I pray to God to grant me illumination to do His Will. I also pray that all those things that I have learned in the Mission and also at the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute will help me to serve God and His Church as a good and humble shepherd of the People. I thank all the good people for their good wishes and love that they have shown to me all these years.”

Archbishop Nikitas was scheduled to depart on Wednesday June 12 to travel to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople for the Services of Lesser and Great Minima (Announcements) before Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and the members of the Holy Synod.

His enthronement will be scheduled to take place by the end of July at St. Sophia Cathedral in London. Newly elected Archbishops Elpidophoros of America and Makarios of Australia telephoned and congratulated Archbishop-elect Nikitas.

It is reminded that the members of the Eparchial Synod of America with the exception of Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco, under the presidency of former Archbishop Demetrios, had excluded Nikitas from the candidacy for Metropolitan of Chicago even after the official declaration of the Ecumenical Patriarchate that he was eligible to be among the candidates.

Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain is the son of Constantine and Kalliope Lulias. He was born on June 22, 1955 in Tampa, Florida where he was raised with his brother John. His roots are from Krokos Kozanis and the island of Kalymnos.

A member of Savant, the University of Florida Honor Society, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) degree from the University in 1976. His Eminence attended Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and received his Masters’ of Divinity, with Honors, in 1980. He was a Rotary International Graduate Scholar from 1980-1981 and a Graduate Scholar, Ministry of the Exterior, Greece, from 1981-1982. He pursued graduate studies at the University of Thessaloniki, Greece until November 1982. He also studied the Russian language at the St. Petersburg Theological Seminary, St. Petersburg, Russia from late 1992 to mid-1993. His Eminence Nikitas’ first assignment upon ordination was Associate Pastor at Sts. Constantine and Helen Cathedral in Merrillville, Indiana. He remained at the Cathedral until 1987 at which time he became the Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Diocese of Chicago. During his tenure as Chancellor from 1987 to 1995, he was involved in numerous educational, community service, and interfaith activities, including teaching a course in Orthodox Christian Theology at Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois (1988 to 1991). In 1994 he was appointed Director of Development for International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) and on July 1, 1995 he became Pastor of the St. Demetrios Orthodox Church of Chicago. He was consecrated a bishop and named Metropolitan of Hong Kong and South East Asia on December 14, 1996. That historic event took place in the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. George the Great Martyr at the Phanar in Constantinople. He was enthroned as the first Metropolitan of Hong Kong and South East Asia (the Exarchates of China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore) on January 12, 1997 at the Cathedral of Saint Luke the Evangelist in Hong Kong.

In March of 2007, His Eminence Nikitas was appointed Director of the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute.

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JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled against the Greek Orthodox Church in a long-running legal battle over the sale of three properties in predominantly Palestinian parts of Jerusalem’s Old City to a Jewish settler group.

The ruling handed down on Monday was part of a protracted dispute over the 2004 sale of Old City properties, including two Palestinian-run hotels, to Ateret Cohanim, an Israeli organization that aims to increase the Jewish presence in Palestinian areas of the contested holy city.

The church had claimed that its former patriarch secretly sold the buildings without authorization.

Most Orthodox Christians in Jerusalem are Palestinian, and the sale of the properties to Israelis sparked outrage. Israel captured east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war. Palestinians seek east Jerusalem as their capital of a future state.

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NEW YORK – The Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce hosted an event on June 11 at Norton Rose Fulbright Hall in Manhattan titled The Effect of Politics on New York City Real Estate and the Future of Energy in the United States and Abroad.

The Chamber’s special guest and the evening’s keynote speaker was former New York City mayoral candidate and chairman of the Red Apple Group, John Catsimatidis.

Chamber President Markos Drakotos told The National Herald, “we have gathered here today to listen to someone who has been very generous to the Greek community. Indeed, I do not think it is possible for anyone to find a more humble, generous, and noble person than Mr. Catsimatidis.  He will talk today about contemporary issues, which makes the event even more interesting. I think listening to business speakers of Mr. Catsimatidis’ caliber benefits everyone. ”

There was an impressive turnout on Tuesday night at the Chamber’s reception, with representatives from the fields of politics, investment, and the business world attending. George Pataki, past Governor of New York, said to TNH, “The Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce is indeed a great organization and is constantly working to strengthen economic ties between two great countries. Tonight’s speaker is a great businessman but also an important leader. I am honored to be here today.”

Drakotos thanked the attendees and those who helped organize the event. Atlantic Bank President Nancy Papaioannou presented biographical information and conveyed Catsimatidis’ achievements and diverse business life, adding that she expects that Catsimatidis will be the Mayor of New York one day.

The Greek-American businessman, radio producer and host, owner, President and CEO of the Gristedes Foods food chain and of the Red Apple Group, is a genuine embodiment of the American dream. Catsimatidis is known for his frank and direct style when he shares his views with his radio audience. He also tells personal stories about his birth on the island of Nisyros and his parents’ decision to pursue a better life by migrating to New York.

His family originally moved to western Harlem and his father worked in restaurants to support his family. Catsimatidis’ humble beginnings did not at all suggest that a few years later he would build an empire literally from scratch. While still a student at NYU, he became the owner of his first grocery store, and by the time he was 25 he owned 10 stores.

Diving into contemporary issues, Catsimatidis made a comparison between the immigration practices at the time his family came to America and those of today, saying: “My father’s two siblings had to sign that in case my father would be unable to pay our rent, they would have to pay it instead of him. It was not like today, when border control is loose and everyone can get in and out of the country as they wish.”

Catsimatidis praised President Donald Trump’s determination to recognize the migration problem and to his having courage to defend the country’s interests.

He clarified that he is in favor of immigration, because he himself is an immigrant as he said, but added, “we ought to control who is coming and who is leaving.” He also underlined that in the past, immigrants to America believed in the American dream, but that many immigrant groups today want to change America and make it conform to their own ideas.

Addressing the Greek-Americans who were in the audience and emphasizing the value of education for young people, he recommended: “Never forget that our children are competing with peers from all over the world in New York. Being the best in Astoria is no longer enough.”

Sharing his business management philosophy, Catsimatidis said “people do what you inspect, not necessarily what you expect” – explaining that if nobody is watching some workers slack off.

In the 1970’s he realized that his best chance for achieving his financial goals was to expand from the supermarket business to the real estate market.

In the decades following, Catsimatidis also invested in aviation by acquiring 47 jets and bought the United Refining Company with 371 gas stations.  In a self-critical moment, he said one of his main strengths was knowing when to stop and to be sure everything was under control before proceeding to his next strategic move.  “You also need vision and courage,” he said.

At the end of his speech, Catsimatidis answered questions from the audience. Other issues discussed included income tax levels in New York and the recent failure of the deal with Amazon, which he described as an awful thing, attributing it to the failure of the Democratic party’s politicians.

The audience had the opportunity to witness  a more intimate and sensitive side of the businessman at the time when, towards the end, he was obviously moved when talking about his children. Catsimatidis talked about the necessity of family love and the importance for young people to feel safe at home, but also to be free to make mistakes, as mistakes, he said, are of great pedagogical value.

He also advised parents that, “it is very important to teach your children to have mentors. Many of my mentors were hardworking common sense people, and many of them belonged to the Jewish community. My mentors have really helped me very much. ”

Present at the event were, among others, Catsimatidis’ wife Margo, Andre Gregory, Elias Katsos, George Pantelides, George Zapantis, Paul Lountzis, Zachary Lountzis, Olga Alexakos, John Stratakis, John Kuris, Athas Ioannou, Eraklis Diamataris, representatives of Southern Star and Brian Devine.

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NEW YORK – Students of Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, while on a pilgrimage in Greece, visited with the newly elected Archbishop Elpidophoros of America in Thessaloniki, Greece. His Eminence received the group in his office, at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki where he has been a professor since 2009. Archbishop Elpidophoros expressed his love and care for HCHC and gave the students his blessing.

The group took a picture with the Archbishop. They are (left to right): Michael Palamara, Genevieve Palamara, Hannah Palamara, Seraphima Palamara, Demetrios Balidis, Adam Murphy, Dan Kazanas, Prof. Demetra Koukoura, His Eminence Archbishop Elpidoforos, Prof. Timothy Patitsas, Deacon Alexander Kamillaris, Anthony Linderman, Vasiliki Kumarelas, James Kumarelas.

Source: GOARCH

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JERUSALEM – On June 10, the Supreme Court of Israel ruled against the Greek Orthodox Church and in favor of a radical group, in a 14-year-old case relating to the corrupt sale of significant properties at the entrance to the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem. The Church is determined to continue to pursue the case by all legal means at its disposal, to preserve the Christian presence in Jerusalem and the principles of the Status Quo. A spokesman for the Greek Orthodox Church said:

“The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate is very disappointed by the Supreme Court ruling on Jaffa Gate. Our legal team presented a clear case of bribery and corruption at the hands of the Plaintiffs, Ateret Cohanim. It is depressing that such corruption is not regarded by the court as having a material impact on the sales that resulted from it.

“The Patriarchate’s concern now lies both with the tenants of the properties in question, and with the continued Christian character of the Christian quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. The Patriarchate is committed to its continued support to the protected tenants of these properties, who are worried about their homes and livelihoods. Together with the other Churches of Jerusalem, the Patriarchate is committed to maintaining the Christian character of the Christian quarter, and unimpeded access to the holy sites for the hundreds of thousands of worshippers and pilgrims who visit each year.”

Background:

1. Landmark properties at the entrance to the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, appraised at a value of $6.7M USD were sold, without due authority, by a rogue employee of the Greek Orthodox Church for $2.2M USD. The Church organs did not receive the funds.
2. The properties were sold to four front companies, secretly controlled by the radical organization Ateret Cohanim.
3. The sales were made without the knowledge of the Synod and the proper authorities of the Church, and without authorization, by an employee of the then-Patriarch, Nicolas Papadimas. Following the discovery of the deception, Papadimas, a convicted fraudster, stole church funds and fled the country – first to Greece, it is then believed that he travelled to Panama.
4. Following Papadimas’ deception and flight, there is evidence of continuing cash payments made to him from Ateret Cohanim. The details of the financial arrangements between Papadimas and Ateret Cohanim, key to the case, were not revealed by the group.
5. Key legal documents used by Papadimas as part of the deception were concluded by lawyers out of the same office as those acting for Ateret Cohanim.
6. Ateret Cohanim claimed that despite the clear irregularities and fraudulent nature of the case, the contracts should be considered valid.

The post Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Releases Statement on Israeli Ruling on Corrupt Sale appeared first on The National Herald.

ΑΕΡΑΣ IS THE AIR

Ο αέρας is the Greek word for the air. The relation between the Greek and the English word is quite clear.
ΤΡΙΚΥΜΙΑ IS THREE WAVES IN A ROW
The words το κύμα and η τρικυμία first occur in the Homeric epic, and are close related. “H τρικυμία” is a compound word from the number τρία and κύμα > τρί (α) + κύμα. Τρία means three. It is found in English words as tri+angular, tri+chotomy etc. Many ancient Greeks have spent their lives sailing and they have observed that there is a rhythm in the waves sequence, when the sea is rough. Three bigger waves in a row are followed by smaller ones. Therefore, they have given the rough sea the name τρικυμία. Το κύμα is of neuter grammatical gender, because the word refers to an object, while η τρικυμία the rough sea, which is a condition, is of feminine grammatical gender, as are most feminine grammatical gender nouns that describe conditions.
In Greek we say «η θάλασσα έχει κύμα», “the sea has wave,” using the singular number of the word wave -not the plural-, without the article.
A very common phrase is «η θάλασσα είναι λάδι», «the sea is like oil”, which means that the sea is as calm as the olive oil in the bottle.

IS THE SEA A WOMAN OR A MAN?
If the sea would be a person, would you imagine it as a man or a woman? For different cultures the answer is different.
In Greek the sea, η θάλασσα, is of feminine grammatical gender, while in French it is a noun of masculine grammatical gender. For the Greek sailors the sea was like a woman, who deceived them with her beauty. Like a Siren she calls men to travel and to embrace them in her waters. Yet, she is dangerous and hides sufferings under her temporary calmness.
In Slavic and in German the sea is of neuter grammatical gender. Do the proximity of a country to the sea and the degree to which its history has been dominated by its nautical actions play a role in the personification of the sea? Most probably yes, it does.

COMMON PHRASES
Μαρία, πώς είναι η θάλασσα σήμερα;
maREEa POS EEne EE THalasa SEEmera?
Maria, how is the sea today?
Σήμερα έχει αέρα και η θάλασσα έχει κύμα.
SEEmera Ehi aEra KE EE THAlasa Ehi KEEma.
Today it is windy and the sea (has waves) is rough.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα έχει τρικυμία.
EE THAlasa SEEmera Ehi trikiMEEa.
The sea today is rough.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα είναι ήσυχη.
EE THAlasa SEEmera EEne EEsihi.
The sea today is calm.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα είναι λάδι.
EE THAlasa SEEmera EEne LAdi.
The sea today is calm (like olive oil in a bottle).

BASIC VOCABULARY
Greek word Pronunciation Meaning
Η θάλασσα EE THAlasa the sea
Σήμερα SEEmera today
Πώς POS? how?
Είναι EEne is
Έχει Ehi has
Δεν DEN not, doesn’t
Ο αέρας O aEras the air, the wind
Το κύμα TO KEEma the wave
Η τρικυμία EE trikiMEEA the rough sea
Ήσυχη EEsihi calm
Το λάδι TO LAdi the olive oil

EXERCISE
Πώς είναι η θάλασσα σήμερα; How is the sea today?
Try to give your answer by building whole sentences, like in the given example. In each sentence use the words given below.
Example: Αέρας, λάδι.
Σήμερα δεν έχει αέρα και η θάλασσα είναι λάδι.

1. Αέρας, ήσυχη.
2. Λάδι.
3. Αέρας, κύμα.
4. Αέρας, τρικυμία.

PRONUNCIATION KEY
i (idiom), ee (bee), e (energy), o (organism), oo (boot), y (yes), h (helium), th (theory), d (the). The capitalized syllables are accented.

The post Our Everyday Greek Greek you Already Know. The Wind, Aέρας and the Rough Sea, Tρικυμία. appeared first on The National Herald.

ASTORIA – Lawyer Maria Markou spoke about legal issues concerning the community and especially Greek and Cypriot expatriates living in the United States on June 13 at the Archdiocesan Hellenic Cultural Center in Astoria.

Markou’s staff handed out a rose to each attendee at the event. The room was filled to capacity and besides the discussion of legal issues, a slideshow featuring photos from Markou’s childhood to the present day was also screened.

Presenter and co-ordinator of the evening was the journalist Andreas Hadjioannou, who spoke about Markou from the beginning of her career until now. He mentioned her character and that the interest shown to her clients is above all human. “Maria is first and foremost a human being and then a lawyer,” Hadjiioannou said.

Immediately thereafter Markou appeared taking to the stage where she sat on a velvet red sofa holding a white rose. Her speech focused on issues related to inheritance and property, military matters, marriages and divorces. A lot of weight has been given to the famous land registry issue that has lately caused a stir among many in the community since they have not been fully informed about how to proceed.

Another controversial issue she discussed was immigration. Markou spoke about what to look out for, especially when it comes with ESTA, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, as well as information on visa and green card applications.

The talk lasted 45 minutes, and in the end Maria Markou took questions from the audience about more inheritance issues and immigration.

Markou was awarded for her contribution to the Greek community not only as a lawyer but also for her community service participation by the HELLAS FM radio station. The honorary plaque was presented by the director of the station Dimitris Filippidis.

A reception followed at the cultural center, where people also had the opportunity to speak more in depth with the lawyer.

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NEWARK, N.J. — Authorities say a plane blew tires while landing at Newark Liberty International Airport, sending it skidding on the runway before coming to a halt.

United Airlines said Flight 627 from Denver was landing at 1 p.m. Saturday with 166 passengers when the tires blew.

United spokesman Robert Einhorn said the plane remained on the runway. The FAA initially said it skidded off the pavement but later said it “veered to the left side of the pavement.”

The airline said some passengers with minor injuries refused medical attention and no one was seriously injured. The airport reported resuming flights shortly before 3 p.m. but said to expect delays. It later reported operating in “limited capacity” after the National Transportation Safety Board said the plane shouldn’t be moved until investigators arrived.

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CHICAGO – The Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois celebrated its 10th annual Judges Night at the National Hellenic Museum, June 9th, drawing a crowd of some 200 law professionals including Federal, Illinois Supreme, Appellate and Circuit Court judges of the Cook, Lake, DuPage, and Will counties.

Judge James A. Geocaris, former Presiding Judge of the Third Municipal District of Cook County, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award after 30 years of service on the bench.

“I want to thank the Hellenic Bar Association for this honor…considering my age, I am happy to be receiving it in my lifetime,” he said, humoring the crowd with his life story, which includes both professional baseball and law.

Geocaris, who was born in 1930, is the second Greek-American judge elected to the court in Cook County, as well as the first, and to date, only Greek-American Presiding Judge of Cook County.

This year’s Socrates Dikastes Award was presented to Chief Judge Ruben Castillo, United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The award is presented to a judge who exemplifies the principles pertinent to the bench as identified by the great Greek philosopher, Socrates: to hear courteously, to answer wisely, to consider soberly and to decide impartially.

“I feel very fortunate and I am lucky to follow in the footsteps of Judge Kocoras,” Ruben Castillo said.

During the evening, newly-elected HBA President, Vicki Pappas Karl was sworn in by Judge Charles P. Kocoras, who administered the oath of office to new officers and directors.

“As the daughter of Greek-American parents who worked hard to put me through school and taught me the values of hard work and education, I am proud to be a lawyer, and I am proud to be a Greek-American,” Pappas Karl said.

Outgoing HBA President Maria Vathis recalled the group’s achievements this year, including a total of $70,000 raised for scholarships. “I am grateful to this group for being part of my entire legal career since I was a law student scholarship recipient myself, and to the friends and mentors I was fortunate to gain,” Vathis said. “I look forward to my friend Vicki’s leadership this coming year, and as a female attorney, I am also excited to see so many women climbing up the leadership ladder of our organization.”

A decade-long tradition, Judges Night was spearheaded by Judge Anna Demacopoulos, before she rose to the bench, in an effort to showcase the capacity and capability of the Hellenic legal community.

Founded 68 years ago, the Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois is one of the largest and most successful ethnic bar associations, providing professional and career opportunities to lawyers and students, academic scholarships, outreach and philanthropy.

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ASTORIA – Dr. George D. Yancopoulos, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, was the keynote speaker at the St. Demetrios Graduation on June 7. In his moving and inspiring speech, Dr. Yancopoulos shared his personal journey towards success and his family’s and encouraged the graduates to “go out, try to help your fellow man, and change the world for the better.”

Dr. Yancopoulos’ speech follows:

Your Grace, Reverend Archimandrite, Dean Papazafiropoulos, Principal/Dr Koularmanis, honored guests, and to the soon-to-be graduates of this great school, and to their teachers, family and friends…. Thank you for the honor of addressing you at this most important moment in your lives…

I also want to remember and honor all those who came before us, who suffered and fought and persevered just so we could be here celebrating your graduation today…  My family comes from a town in the very north of modern Greece called Kastoria, a beautiful town built on a lake and surrounded by mountains… we consider ourselves Greek Macedonians – that is, the true Macedonians – and when I was small my father showed me the mountains around us, and he told me never to forget how much blood and sweat was spilled on those mountains, just so we could be standing there that day…. He told me to never forget that I owed so much to those untold generations that came before us, and that the way to repay them was to make sure I made something of my life and contributed to the world, so as to bring them honor….

So who am I?  Well, I look back about 40 years, and I think I was just like many of you are now, just starting out.  And then I got to live the great American Dream.  Maybe you can hear a little of my story, and that can help you imagine the infinite possibilities of your futures…

Let me start first at the end, before I come back to the beginning.

I am a scientist, what they used to call a gene hunter… and people consider me pretty successful… in my thirties, I was ranked as one of the top ten scientists in the entire world… I started a biotechnology company with my long-time partner Len Schleifer, called Regeneron, which has become one of the biggest in the world…  and I think we became successful the right way – that is, we didn’t do it by coming up with some devious business scheme, but by doing something very important for humanity – we invented more important new medicines over the last decade than anyone had over a similar period in history:

• One is the leading drug in the world to cure blindness, from diseases like diabetes and age-related macular degeneration
• Another is a new treatment to prevent heart attacks and heart disease
• A third is a breakthrough therapy for severe allergic disease, and diseases including asthma and atopic dermatitis
• And we came up with several new treatments for previously incurable forms of cancer….

How did we do this? I love superhero movies… how many of you have watched the X-Men movies? Well, X-men and women really exist… they are simply people who walk amongst us that have special mutations in their genes that give them special powers… well, our strategy at Regeneron was simply to find these X-men and women… we found X-men who were resistant to heart disease, who felt no pain, whose vision could resist blindness, whose bodies fought cancer, even X-men who had really large muscles… and we cloned their mutations and then made medicines that could give the power of these mutations to regular people… and that was our simple strategy, that led to all these important new medical breakthroughs… there was a lot of science around this approach, but it really was pretty much that simple… and our advantage was that others hadn’t really thought of this simple approach before, as a way to come up with important new medicines…

And with all these new medicines has come incomprehensible riches… How many of you know who Bruno Mars is?  You know his song about “wanting to be a billionaire so freakin’ bad” and “wanting to be on the cover of Forbes”… well, been there, done that… Forbes also every year selects the most innovative companies in the world, and we have been on the top ten of that list every year for the last 10 years… last year we were right behind TESLA, please don’t get me started on how wrong that is…. But anyway…

That’s where we are now… but let me go back to the beginning and tell you how I got there…. And to what I owe it all to….

I am sure, like many of you, being GREEK defines me…

Growing up in a Greek immigrant family in NYC, we were very poor but I never even realized it… My parents came in the 1950’s after WWII and the Civil War in Greece, and because of that they never finished school, and we never had much money… I never realized we weren’t rich, because, most importantly, I was lucky to have the greatest parents and grandparents and sister in the world… and the greatest extended family of cousins and uncles and aunts…. And we all lived together and supported each other…  there is for sure nothing better than growing up in a big Greek family….

I was born in Manhattan, and then baptized in the Bronx, but when I was small we moved right here – this was my neighborhood for a while, and St Demetrios was my church, but we kept moving, and by high school my church was Transfiguration of Christ in Corona, where I was in the GOYA and played basketball….

My parents always insisted on only speaking Greek at home, and when I went to public school on the first day – a little kid walking into PS11 in Woodside on a beautiful fall day in 1964 – I’ll never forget that day – I didn’t even know that English existed.  I was in shock, I had no idea what was happening.  And I was very slow in learning a new language, and I actually failed the 1st grade.  Back then they didn’t have programs like English as a 2nd language, and there was no such thing as “political correctness” – they just put all the kids who failed 1st grade into what they then called the MR class, for Mentally Retarded.

But my parents and grandparents wouldn’t let me think that there was something wrong with me.  In fact, they made me believe the opposite, that even then, there was greatness inside of me.  How did they make me believe this?

They told me about all the greatness in our Greek ancestry… from Homer to Herotodus, from Odysseus to Alexander, from Hippocrates to Socrates… and they told me that all that greatness still lived inside of me and inside of all Greeks… They told me that the blood of Alexander flowed in my veins, and so I could conquer anything… It does not matter whether any of that was true, it only mattered that they made a 7 year old boy believe it.

My father told me that America was the greatest country in the world, and if you were just willing to work for it, you could accomplish anything here… He told me that his role -because he had no education and training – was to work hard so his children could get a better education and then be able to do anything.  And most importantly, he told me that Greeks were smarter, more creative, and harder working than other Americans, and that we were destined to succeed.  Once again, it didn’t matter if any of that was true, the only thing that mattered is that I believed everything he told me.

And the most important story he told me was about a hero and role model very close to home, which he claimed proved I could overcome anything.  He told me my own “Founder Tale”.  How many of you are named after your Grandfather??? I see by the raised hands that many of your families follow that tradition, and thus that many of you are named after your Grandfathers!

So am I, my Pappou’s name is my name, George Damis Damianos Yancopoulos.  My father told me I was named after my grandfather for a reason. He told me my grandfather was born in 1883 – think of that, just imagine how long ago that is – as a Turkish slave in a little village.  Many in his family were killed by the Turks, and he became a Freedom Fighter but was captured.  He managed to escape and somehow found his way to Vienna, Austria. I can’t even imagine how someone from a small Xorio can escape and make it to Vienna.  There, he saw the magic of electricity – he saw electric lights for the first time – there was nothing like it in his little village – and he was sure it was magic.  And he wanted to learn everything he could about this magic.  He didn’t even know how to read or write, and he couldn’t speak German – his job was sweeping the floors of the famous old Vienna Opera House – but he knew he wanted to devote his life to this magic.  So he started taking the librettos about the opera home with him at night, and used them to try to learn German.  And somehow he did, and somehow he got himself into University, and somehow and unbelievably he became an electrical engineer, learning how to build electrical power plants, because his dream was to go back to his homeland and bring back the magic of electricity.  And he managed to do this.  He went back to Greece and built many of Greece’s first electrical power plants, bringing light to his Patrida.  And with this, he achieved incomprehensible wealth, becoming one of the richest Greeks at the time.  Just to show how fragile life can be, and sometimes how we move in circles —- at the height of my grandfather’s success, the Nazis came, they nationalized his plants, and he was imprisoned and left penniless.  And my father, who had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth and was now a teenager, joined the resistance and essentially became a freedom fighter just like his father had been.

So what’s the lesson in this?  Once again, what mattered to me was that my father made me believe that if my grandfather could rise from being a slave to such heights, and that I was named after him, I could do anything as well.  Whatever I achieved in life, it was only because my father made me believe that I could do it.

So what have I learned, and is there maybe something you can learn from my journey?

I think 40 years ago I was maybe not that different from who you are now.  I was a young Greek kid coming out of high school.  Back when I was your age, I saw many problems in the world, and I was inspired to use the power of science to try to make a difference in the world by curing disease.  I am sure you see many challenges facing our world, and you dream about offering hope and solutions, changing the world.  You are at the beginning of the incredible adventure of life.  And in your adventure you have an incredible advantage.  I believe in the magic of the human spirit, and there is no greater human spirit than that of the Greeks.  Your great Hellenic history flows through you, both empowering you but also obligating you to do honor to the sacrifices of your parents, as well as of all the others who came before you.  You are all Hellenes, and its your turn to go out and conquer – whether it be disease, global warming, poverty, hunger, politics or business – go out, try to help your fellow man, and change the world for the better.   It will not be easy, there will be many challenges and failures along the way, you will struggle and have to find a new way… but I encourage you to embrace these struggles as opportunities – to prove who you really are, to reinvent yourself, and to consider audacious new possibilities and paths.

I’ll never forget the pride of my father, who was in the Greek army for years, and how proud he was that the Greeks brought the first victory against what at that time seemed an unconquerable evil empire – turning back the Nazis at the Albanian border in October of 1940.  He always reminded me that because of that first victory against the Nazis, Winston Churchill said that from here on forward, that it will be said that all Heroes fight like Hellenes.  Well, you are all Hellenes, you all have greatness inside of you, and it is time to go out and be Heroes.

Thanks for your attention.

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Set to expire June 11, the New Jersey Hellenic-American Heritage Commission was extended by an Executive Order signed by Gov. Phil Murphy who said, “The Hellenic community has contributed tremendously not just to this State, but to this country as a whole,” insiderjn.com reported.

“With Governor Murphy’s continuing support, the NJ Hellenic-American Heritage Commission looks forward to maintaining the noble ideals set forth by our ancient forefathers and mothers,” said Dr. Zenon Christodoulou, the commission Chairman, about the new order.

“During history’s many ebbs and flows, Hellenic ideals have been the beacon of light to see the unlimited worth of each human being and to achieve society’s highest aspirations. The Commission is proud to continue the work envisioned by Governor Corzine along with our dedicated commissioners and countless supporters who selflessly keep the finest qualities of the Western tradition alive and well,” he said.

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Residents and visitors in the California town of San Luis Obispo annually look forward to a first-hand look – and taste – of Greek culture and food at the annual festival, now in its 12^th year, drawing the curious and hungry.

The festival is hosted by Saint Andrew Greek Orthodox Church. “We hold festival this because we want to introduce people to our Greek culture and our Greek hospitality. We are so proud of it and we want to share it with everybody,” Jean Costopoulos Weeks, a Greek American resident told KSBY TV which reported on the event.

The family-friendly event featured authentic Greek cuisine, home pastries, live traditional music and lots of good dancing too. “If you’ve never been to a Greek restaurant, this is the place to be,” she said. Proceeds benefited the Noor Clinic providing free health care for the needy.

The post Greek Festival Shows Culture, Food Too, at San Luis Obispo appeared first on The National Herald.

WHITESTONE, NY – The annual Greek Festival at the Holy Cross community in Whitestone once again drew big crowds June 6-9 this year. Among those contributing to the success of the festival were the presiding priest of Holy Cross Archimandrite Dionysios Anagnostopoulos, ladies of the Philoptochos Society, and many volunteers from the community.

Attendees enjoyed the traditional Greek foods, pastries, and of course, the loukoumades. Rides and games also delighted the younger attendees at the festival and the community is looking forward to welcoming everyone again next year.

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Nicholas Negroponte, the noted founder of the MIT Media Lab and Michalis Bletsas, Director of Computing there, talked about its history and efforts to bring computing to children in the developing world, and early stage technology.

That came at an event attended by more than 250 entrepreneurs, investors and academics organized by The Hellenic Innovation Network and the Consulate of Greece in Boston, said Kathimerini. Moderated by Founding CEO of Z Corp Marina Hatsopoulos, it included several pitches by Greek technology entrepreneurs.

“These globally-focused Greeks have been setting the country on a new course to recovery through technology entrepreneurship,” said Bletsas, who has been involved with Greek startups for two decades and founded, together with Negroponte, the One Laptop Per Child non-profit organization. They are two of the most noted people in their fields, developing ideas to make technology more accessible.

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JUNE 4-28
MANHATTAN – The Consulate General of Greece in New York and Timarete Hellenic Art Festival are pleased to announce “Inside, Outside and Beyond” a group exhibition at the Consulate General’s premises, 69 East 79th Street in Manhattan, June 4-28. Participating artists include Eozen Agopian, Maria Anasazi, Elaine Angelopoulos, Laura Dodson, Angie Drakopoulos, Peter Gerakaris, Cris Gianakos, Morfy Gikas, Mark Hadjipateras, Maria Karametou, Zoe Keramea, Georgia Lale, Eirini Linardaki, Aristides Logothetis, Despo Magoni, Demetrius Manouselis, Jenny Marketou, Eleni Mylonas, Antonia Papatzanaki, Costas Picadas, Panayiotis Terzis, Lydia Venieri, and Adonis Volanakis. The exhibition runs until June 28, Monday-Friday, 9 AM-2:30 PM.

JUNE 15
ASTORIA – The Timarete Hellenic Art Festival presents Alalum, a dark comedy, on Saturday, Jun. 15, 8 PM, at the Archdiocesan Hellenic Cultural Center, 27-09 Crescent Street in Astoria. Four elderly cousins are gathered in the house of their elderly uncle who has just been groomed. An inheritance, a murder, and a mysterious visitor will bring them up creating an “Alalum” of comic situations. Cast: Georgia Fiotodimitrakis, Ioanna Fiotodimitrakis, Olga Someras, Vivian Triviza, and Alexandra Skendrou. Admission/Donation: $20. Reservations: 917-603-4437. More information is available online: www.timarete.com.

JUNE 16
ASTORIA – Folk Dance Night with Traditional Dance Troupes closes the Timarete Hellenic Art Festival on Sunday, Jun. 16, 6 PM, at the Stathakion Cultural Center, 22-51 29th Street in Astoria. Free admission, open to the public. More information is available by phone: 917-603-4437 and online: www.timarete.com.

JUNE 18
MANHATTAN – The Greek-American Writers Assn. invites you to a special program, Sex in the (Ancient) City on Tuesday, Jun. 18, 7-8:30 PM, at Revelation Gallery, 224 Waverly Place in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. Join Olympia Dukakis, Professor David Sider (NYU), actor Theodore Bouloukos, singer Nektarios Antoniou, Mia Theodoratos (orphic lyre), and Professor Constantina Rhodes in an illustrated and dramatic examination of sex, gender, sexuality, and love in the ancient Greece. Professor Sider, an expert on gender and sexuality in the ancient world, will compare ancient and modern concepts of sexual identity. Oscar-winner Dukakis will present the poetry of the immortal Sappho authentically accompanied by the orphic lyre. A wine reception will follow the program. Admission $10-20. Ticket purchase before June 1 is recommended because of limited space. More information and tickets online: Eventbrite, search: Sex in the ancient city: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sex-in-the-ancient-city-tickets-61642631771.

JUNE 20-23
BRAINTREE, MA St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church, 119 Common Street in Braintree, holds its annual Greek Festival June 20-23. Enjoy the Grecian Food Festival with Specialty Boutiques, Children’s Corner, Greek Food and Pastry, YiaYia’s Attic, live Greek music and dancing. Free admission and plenty of free parking. Hours: Thursday, Jun. 20, 11 AM-9 PM; Friday, Jun. 21 and Saturday, Jun. 22, 11 AM-11 PM; and Sunday, Jun. 23, Noon-9 PM. More information is available by phone: 781-843-0047 and online: https://stcatherinebraintree.org.

JUNE 21-23
WEST ALLIS, WI – Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival at Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 S 84th Street in West Allis. Experience traditional Greek culture and indulge in the famous Greek chicken, along with other popular Greek dishes such as souvlakia, gyros, baklava, koulouria, Yiayia’s spanakopita, a cultural exhibit, merchandise boutique, raffle, traditional Hellenic dancers and live band, traditional Greek dance lessons also available. Admission is Free. Paid parking at Wisconsin State Fair parking lot. Hours: Friday, Jun. 21, and Saturday, Jun. 22, 11 AM-11 PM; and Sunday, Jun. 23, 11 AM-8 PM. More information is available by phone: 414-461-9400 and online: annunciationwi.org.

DENVER, CO – Assumption of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4610 E. Alameda Avenue in Denver, holds its 54th Annual Greek Festival June 21-23. Enjoy saganaki, Greek fries, Greek wings, mezethes, souvlakia, gyros, lamb, Greek chicken, spanakopita, tiropites, keftedes, dolmades, Greek salad, pastitsio, galaktobouriko, koulourakia, loukoumades, kourambiedes, baklava, and more! Church tours, raffle, cooking demonstrations, and boutique. Live Greek music and dancing. More information is available by phone: 303-388-9314 and online: www.thegreekfestival.com.

CAMARILLO, CA – St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival June 21-23 at Freedom Park at Camarillo Airport, 515 Eubanks Street in Camarillo. The Ventura County Greek Festival is one of the county’s longest-running cultural festivals. Featuring homemade Greek food, live Greek music, Greek dancing, shopping, and rides for the kids, the Festival has something for everyone! Proceeds go to the Building Fund to pay off the mortgage for the new location. $5 admission, includes a Free Raffle Ticket for a chance to win $3,000. Free parking. Hours: Friday, Jun. 21, 5-9 PM; Saturday, Jun. 22, 11 AM-9 PM; and Sunday, Jun. 23, 11 AM-7 PM. More information is available by phone: 805-482-1273 and online: http://vcgreekfestival.org.

JUNE 22-23
DEKALB, IL – St. George Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival at Hopkins Park Shelter House, 1403 Sycamore Road in DeKalb, June 22-23. Family style picnic at the local park with Greek food and pastries. No alcohol allowed in the park. Enjoy Greek music and dancing. Hours: Saturday, Jun. 22, 11 AM-8 PM and Sunday, Jun. 23, 11 AM-7 PM. More information is available by phone: 815-758-5731.

JUNE 27-29
PORTLAND, ME – Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 133 Pleasant Street in Portland, holds its annual Greek Festival June 27-29, noon-9 PM all days. This wonderful family event draws more than 10,000 visitors from around the greater Portland area each year. Enjoy exquisite Greek cuisine, live Greek music and traditional dancing. More information is available by phone: 207-774-0281 and online: http://www.htrinityportland.org/greek-festival/.

JUNE 27-30
FORT WAYNE, IN – Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church holds its 39th Annual Greek Festival in Headwaters Park, 333 S Clinton Street in Fort Wayne, June 27-30. Enjoy Greek cuisine, daily raffles, live Greek music and dancing. Greek Fest Olympic 5K on Saturday at 10 AM beginning at Headwaters Park. Admission: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11 AM-4 PM, Free; All Day Sunday, Free; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 4-10 PM, $5; under 16 years old, Free. More information is available by phone: 260- 489-0774 and online: www.fortwaynegreekfestival.org.

JUNE 28
MANHATTAN – The Manhattan AHEPA Family, Delphi Chapter #25, Daughters of Penelope-Evryklea Chapter #36, and The Sons of Pericles-New Renaissance Chapter #5, invite all to attend their 3rd Annual Greek Wine, Food & Music Cruise (21+ to enter) on Friday, Jun. 28, 7:30-10:30 PM. Proceeds to benefit scholarship programs of World Hellenic Biomedical Association. Please visit www.eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-ahepa-greek-wine-food-music-cruise-around-manhattan-tickets-61380955089 for details.

JUNE 28-30
IRVINE, CA – St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church, 4949 Alton Parkway in Irvine, holds its 41st Annual Greek Festival June 28-30. Enjoy delicious Greek food and pastries, church tours, boutique and gift items from around the world, cooking demonstrations, opportunity drawing, Greek folk dancing, and children’s play zone. Admission: $3 per person, children under 10 are free, Seniors 65+ are free Saturday 12-5 PM, Veterans and Active Service Military and Families always free. Hours: Friday, Jun. 28, 5-10 PM; Saturday, Jun. 29, Noon-10 PM; and Sunday, Jun. 30, Noon-9 PM. More information is available by phone: 949-733-2366 and online: irvinegreekfest.com.

JUNE 30
MATTITUCK, NY – The Association of Asgata “Cyprus” Memorial Service for July 20th, 1974 takes place at the Transfiguration Church in Mattituck, LI, followed by Artoklasia in celebration of the Name Day for Apostles Peter and Paul and traditional Cypriot breakfast on Sunday, Jun. 30, 10:30 AM. Picnic with Cypriot food and games at 2 PM. More information is available by phone: Peter Louca 516-679-2205.

JULY 20-21
DUNKIRK, NY – The Siatista Association-USA holds its 97th Annual Convention July 20-21 at the Clarion Resort Hotel, 30 Lake Shore Drive East in Dunkirk, NY (west of Buffalo). For further information contact the Association Secretary Argery Cooke by phone: 703-360-0213 or email: argbit.cooke@gmail.com or Association Historian Peter J. Plumpis by phone: 716-692-0028 or email: pplumpis@aol.com.

The post Going on in Our Community appeared first on The National Herald.

GIANNOPOULOS, EVANGELOS
EXETER, RI (from the Newport Daily News, published on Jun. 3) – Dr. Evangelos (Angelo) H. Giannopoulos, age 59, of Exeter, Rhode Island, passed away on May 31 at home after a seven-year-long battle with cancer. Angelo was born in the village of Haravgi, Pogoniou, in Epirus, Greece to Hristos Giannopoulos and Parthenia (Goumenos) Giannopoulos. Evangelos was the husband of Sandy (Xanthoula) Giannopoulos for 27 years, and a loving father to Parthenia and Eleni. Angelo lived as a child in Greece, but immigrated to the United States at age 14 with his family and settled in New London, CT. He attended New London High School, and while he did not speak English, he excelled in math and science and a few great teachers gave him the confidence to pursue engineering in college. He went on to graduate from UConn in 1981 with a degree in engineering and furthered his education with a Masters Degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He immediately began work at NUSC/NUWC, and continued his work in New London and Newport over the next 37 years. During this time he also earned his PhD in Electrical Engineering from URI in 1999. He was a recognized expert, both in industry and academia, in the field of sonar signal processing and automation. His efforts directly supported all the current classes of U.S. Navy submarines with his last position being Chief Engineer for Submarine and Surveillance Sonar Systems, providing the technical oversight and quality assurance for a variety of projects. He was awarded the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Bronze Award for outstanding achievement in the field of Undersea Warfare (USW) and the NUWC Decibel Award for his contributions in the field of underwater acoustics. Most importantly, Angelo was a highly-respected colleague, mentor, and friend who made a positive impact within the NUWC community and he will be deeply missed. Angelo was a devoted parishioner of the St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church. He served on the Parish Council for 10 years, and was dedicated to sharing Greek history and culture with the next generation as Director and Instructor of the Newport Hellenic Dancers and the Greek School. He volunteered his time to the Greek festival, and was the beloved announcer for the dancers. His trademark whistle and exclamation of “Aren’t they wonderful!?” was a hit with crowds and dancers alike. Angelo loved to travel, walk along the beach, and watch action movies. He was an expert on the grill and always enjoyed sharing good wine and food with family and friends. When he heard his favorite songs, he was the first to get up to dance. When he was diagnosed with Lymphoma in 2012, he approached it like a scientist, working with the doctors to participate in many trials over the past seven years, and learning as much as possible about his disease. He was always willing to take the extra step to advance the research that might lead to a cure. Evangelos is survived by his wife Sandy (his two daughters Parthenia and Eleni, and his brother Nikolaos Giannopoulos, his wife Panayiota and their children Hristos and Athena. He also leaves his mother-in-law Eleni Giannoutsos, his sister-in-law Eve Giannoutsos and her husband Armando Vivacqua, and their son Salvatore Vasili, of Astoria, New York City. The funeral was at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in New London, CT. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, 390 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840. Additional information at www.memorialfuneralhome.com.

KAROZOS, GUS
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (from The Indianapolis Star, published on May 15) – Gus A. Karozos, 101, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, May 12 at Franciscan Hospice House in Indianapolis. Born August 29, 1917, in the village of Dereli, Greece, Gus was the son of Andrew and Evangelia (Smantli) Karozos. At the age of 12 Gus and his family immigrated to Warren, Ohio. Gus proudly served his country as a Corporal in the 376th Field Artillery Battalion of the 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army during World War II; his unit of paratroopers was among the first to jump prior to D-Day in 1944. Upon his honorable discharge in 1944, Gus was the recipient of two Purple Hearts. He attended Ohio State University, where he met his future bride Irene (Pappas) and on June 15, 1947 they were married; she preceded him in death on April 16, 2008. Gus received a Bachelor’s Degree in International Studies from OSU which led to his career as a Sales Manager of Foreign Commerce for M&R Labs in Columbus, Ohio and CB Kendall in Indianapolis. During the late 1940’s and early 1950’s Gus sold powdered milk, ice cream and Similac by correspondence to the Middle East and traveled for months at a time to Central and South America selling pharmaceuticals. Later, Gus enjoyed a successful career in insurance sales as a General Agent for the Franklin Life Insurance Company and Crown Life for more than 50 years. He was also one of the original eleven investors who developed the land that became El Dorado (Dye’s Walk) Country Club. Gus was a faithful past member and past president of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Indianapolis and is currently a member of Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church on Central Avenue in Indianapolis. He was also a past member of AHEPA and the Sertoma Club. Along with his loving wife, Gus is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Polixeni. Survivors include his four children, Evelyn A. Karozos of Indianapolis, Andrew C. Karozos of Healdsburg, California, James C. (Amy) Karozos of Indianapolis, and Joan E. (Scott Locke) Karozos of Indianapolis; and five grandchildren, Patrick and Christopher Shea and Stephanie, Samuel and Peter Karozos. Family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of Gus Karozos in the Daniel F. O’Riley Funeral Home and the Trisagion and funeral services were held at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, 4550 N. Central Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205. Visit www.OrileyFuneralHome.com where you may express online condolences to the Karozos family.

KOUNALIS, SOFIA
SALT LAKE CITY, UT (from the Deseret News, published on May 18) – Sofia G. Kounalis, passed away May 15. Born November 3, 1928 in Crete, Greece, the Daughter of George and Argyro Findikakis. She married George A. Kounalis in 1947, and emigrated to Salt Lake City, UT in 1954. She was preceded in death by her husband. She retired from Salt Lake County Motor Vehicle Division in 1995. Her passion was to go to Wendover and Las Vegas and play the slot machines. She enjoyed life to its fullest, cooking for her family, and baking baklava and Greek cookies for family and friends. She is survived by her son Anthony (Tony), Daughters Evangelia (Lilly Stireman), Argie Barry, and Irene (Rita) Kounalis. Daughter-in-law Sandra Kounalis, son in law Martin Barry, 6 Grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren and her sisters Rita Findikakis Fleming, Stella Drakakis, and brother Stratis Findikakis, preceded in death by her sister Eva Marinos. She was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church, Philoptochos Society and Daughters of Minos. The funeral service was held at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Salt Lake City. Please share your photos and memories with the family at www.starksfuneral.com.

LIKAKIS, EMMANUEL
EDISON, NJ (from the Asbury Park Press, published on Jun. 5) – Emmanuel Likakis, 67, of Edison, passed away at Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, June 1. Born in Greece he was raised in the city of Heraklion on the island of Crete. He moved to Montreal Canada in 1971 where he met and married his wife Eleni before settling down in Edison, New Jersey. Emmanuel worked as a mason for Cretan Concrete in Highland Park for 20 years before finishing up his career as a Driver/Laborer at Winding Woods Apartments in 2019. Emmanuel was a talented craftsman. There wasn’t a project he couldn’t complete as long as he had a cup of black and sweet coffee. Summer Sundays were spent fishing with his sons, tending to his garden, and spending quality time with his grandkids that he loved and adored. Family and friends will remember how kind, giving and selfless Emmanuel was. We will miss his kind soul. He is survived by his wife, Eleni Likakis; sons, George Likakis and his wife Lynette of Hazlet and Kirk Likakis and his wife Kerri of North Brunswick; his daughter Theoni of New Brunswick; and his 4 beautiful grandchildren who meant the world to him Alexander, Marilena, Damian, and Iliana. Letters of condolences can be sent to www.jacquelinemryanfh.com.

LOUTSION, KOULA
CANONSBURG, PA (from the Observer-Reporter, published on May 28) – Koula Loutsion Jr., 79, of Canonsburg, passed away Saturday, May 25 after a 39-year courageous, graceful battle with multiple sclerosis. She was born October 27, 1939, on the island of Limnos, Greece, a daughter of John and Sonia Zervos Papavasilis. She survived the German occupation of Greece and immigrated to Ellis Island at the age of six. Her family settled in the town of Aliquippa, along with many other Greek families. Koula was a steward of the All Saints Greek Orthodox Church. She worked for many years at the annual food festival and with the GOYA youth group prior to her illness. She was past president of the All Saints Ladies Philoptochos Society, and she sang in the church choir for many years. Her kindness touched everyone she came in contact with, and through all her challenges, she never complained. She always had a lovely smile on her face and a beautiful heart that loved everyone. Her family was her life. Koula was a dedicated mother, grandmother, and homemaker. Surviving are her loving son, George T. (Becky) Loutsion III of Canonsburg; her three loving grandchildren who were her pride and joy, Zachary, Alexander, and Stellanie Loutsion; many godchildren; and loving family members. She will remain in our hearts forever. May her memory be eternal. The funeral was held at the All Saints Greek Orthodox Church of Canonsburg with Father George L. Livanos officiating. The family kindly suggests memorial contributions be made the Ladies Philoptochos Society of All Saints Greek Orthodox Church, in Koula’s name. To leave condolences, visit www.sollon.com.

MARIS, MICHAEL
CHICAGO, IL (from the Chicago Tribune, published on Jun. 5) – Michael S. Maris, age 85, born in Chios, Greece passed away June 3rd. He is survived by his loving children, Steve (Jodi) Maris, Peter (Kim) Maris, Katey (Andy John) Kalkounos, and Dean (Angela) Maris; adoring grandchildren, George Kalkounos, Maggie Kalkounos, and Michelle Maris; dear brother John Maris. Michael was preceded in death by his wife Despina Maris (nee Kalamaris), his parents, Stamatis and Despina (nee Lourie) Maris, and brother Kostas Maris. In lieu of flowers donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation are appreciated at either https://parkinson.org/ways-to-give or 200 SE 1st Street Suite 800 Miami, FL 33131. The funeral was held at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago.

PREKEZES, JAMES
CHICAGO, IL (from the Chicago Tribune, published on May 27) – Dr. James John Prekezes passed away peacefully with loved ones in Athens, Greece on May 20 at the age of 92. Husband of the late Calliope (Dorizas), he is survived by his children, Dr. Christine (Peter) Vranas, John (Lily), Irene and Joann as well as his many grandchildren and step-grandchildren. He was a dedicated Family Practitioner and General Surgeon for over 30 years with a reputation of going above and beyond for his patients. He travelled the world well into his 80s and was an avid reader until the end. Known for always sharing oranges and a quick wit, he was a vibrant member of the Greek community in Chicago until his retirement, when he poured himself into gardening and restoring a home in his beloved Arahova. He was buried in a quiet ceremony at Agios Trefonas in Kifisia. As James lived his life quiet and simply, family requests you make a donation to your charity of choice in his memory.

The post Obituaries in Greek-American Community appeared first on The National Herald.

ΑΕΡΑΣ IS THE AIR
Ο αέρας is the Greek word for the air. The relation between the Greek and the English word is quite clear.
ΤΡΙΚΥΜΙΑ IS THREE WAVES IN A ROW
The words το κύμα and η τρικυμία first occur in the Homeric epic, and are close related. “H τρικυμία” is a compound word from the number τρία and κύμα > τρί (α) + κύμα. Τρία means three. It is found in English words as tri+angular, tri+chotomy etc. Many ancient Greeks have spent their lives sailing and they have observed that there is a rhythm in the waves sequence, when the sea is rough. Three bigger waves in a row are followed by smaller ones. Therefore, they have given the rough sea the name τρικυμία. Το κύμα is of neuter grammatical gender, because the word refers to an object, while η τρικυμία the rough sea, which is a condition, is of feminine grammatical gender, as are most feminine grammatical gender nouns that describe conditions.
In Greek we say «η θάλασσα έχει κύμα», “the sea has wave,” using the singular number of the word wave -not the plural-, without the article.
A very common phrase is «η θάλασσα είναι λάδι», «the sea is like oil”, which means that the sea is as calm as the olive oil in the bottle.

IS THE SEA A WOMAN OR A MAN?
If the sea would be a person, would you imagine it as a man or a woman? For different cultures the answer is different.
In Greek the sea, η θάλασσα, is of feminine grammatical gender, while in French it is a noun of masculine grammatical gender. For the Greek sailors the sea was like a woman, who deceived them with her beauty. Like a Siren she calls men to travel and to embrace them in her waters. Yet, she is dangerous and hides sufferings under her temporary calmness.
In Slavic and in German the sea is of neuter grammatical gender. Do the proximity of a country to the sea and the degree to which its history has been dominated by its nautical actions play a role in the personification of the sea? Most probably yes, it does.

COMMON PHRASES
Μαρία, πώς είναι η θάλασσα σήμερα;
maREEa POS EEne EE THalasa SEEmera?
Maria, how is the sea today?
Σήμερα έχει αέρα και η θάλασσα έχει κύμα.
SEEmera Ehi aEra KE EE THAlasa Ehi KEEma.
Today it is windy and the sea (has waves) is rough.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα έχει τρικυμία.
EE THAlasa SEEmera Ehi trikiMEEa.
The sea today is rough.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα είναι ήσυχη.
EE THAlasa SEEmera EEne EEsihi.
The sea today is calm.
Η θάλασσα σήμερα είναι λάδι.
EE THAlasa SEEmera EEne LAdi.
The sea today is calm (like olive oil in a bottle).

BASIC VOCABULARY
Greek word Pronunciation Meaning
Η θάλασσα EE THAlasa the sea
Σήμερα SEEmera today
Πώς POS? how?
Είναι EEne is
Έχει Ehi has
Δεν DEN not, doesn’t
Ο αέρας O aEras the air, the wind
Το κύμα TO KEEma the wave
Η τρικυμία EE trikiMEEA the rough sea
Ήσυχη EEsihi calm
Το λάδι TO LAdi the olive oil

EXERCISE
Πώς είναι η θάλασσα σήμερα; How is the sea today?
Try to give your answer by building whole sentences, like in the given example. In each sentence use the words given below.
Example: Αέρας, λάδι.
Σήμερα δεν έχει αέρα και η θάλασσα είναι λάδι.

1. Αέρας, ήσυχη.
2. Λάδι.
3. Αέρας, κύμα.
4. Αέρας, τρικυμία.

PRONUNCIATION KEY
i (idiom), ee (bee), e (energy), o (organism), oo (boot), y (yes), h (helium), th (theory), d (the). The capitalized syllables are accented.

The post Our Everyday Greek: Greek you already know. The wind, αέρας and the rough sea, τρικυμία appeared first on The National Herald.

In his research and published works, Alexander Kitroeff, Associate Professor of History at Haverford College, focuses on nationalism and ethnicity in modern Greece and its diaspora, and its manifestations across a broad spectrum, from politics to sports. Prof. Kitroeff spoke to The National Herald about his latest book, The Greeks and the Making of Modern Egypt which was published this year by the American University in Cairo Press.

TNH: What inspired you to write the book?

Prof. Alexander Kitroeff: My relationship with the Greeks in Egypt is both familial and academic. My great grandfather Alexandros Th. Kitroeff moved from the island of Chios to Alexandria in the late 19^th century in order to becoming involved in the cotton business. He was a member of the Boards of the Greek Community in Alexandria and the “Mikrasiatikos Syllogos.” He enjoyed great prosperity until the Wall Street Crash of 1929. My grandfather and my grandmother were born in Alexandria, so was my father. They all moved to Greece in the 1950s and 1960s when life in Egypt became difficult for the Greeks. I was born in Athens and grew up listening to stories of life in Egypt, how easy and wonderful it had been.

I have an equally intimate connection in academic terms because as a graduate student at Oxford University I chose to write my doctoral dissertation on the history Greeks in Egypt during the period between the two world wars. I spent several months doing research in Alexandria, where I lived with my grandmother’s sister who had stayed there along with a few thousand Greeks. While I was there, I made an emotional visit to the Greek cemetery and the graves of my great grandfather Alexandros and his wife Polyxeni, who was from the Aegean island of Amorgos.

My dissertation was published as a book in England in 1989, by that time I had moved to the United States so my research turned towards the Greek Americans. Three years ago, somewhat out of the blue, the American University in Cairo Press asked me if I would be interested in writing a book on the history of the Greek presence in Modern Egypt from its beginnings in the early nineteenth century through the 1960s when that presence diminished substantially. It was a wonderful opportunity to return to my family and academic roots!

TNH: How long did the book take from idea to publication?

AK: It took only three years from the invitation from the AUC Press to the publication, which must be some sort of record. But I had already written about a small period of the history of the Greeks in Egypt, several colleagues in the meantime had published important works on the Greeks or the other foreign communities in Egypt, and also I was able to take year’s leave from teaching at Haverford College and I spent it in Greece writing the book. I should add that both the AUC Press acquisitions editor Nadia Naqib and the manuscript editor Katie Holland also contributed to the whole process being efficient and fast.

TNH: What was the most surprising thing you found in your research on the Greeks in Egypt?

AK: I was pleasantly surprised by the intense feelings of love and nostalgia towards Egypt of almost all the Greeks who lived there, along with their strong attachments to Greece. The Greeks had a special relationship with the Egyptians, and they loved the country they had settled in, without losing any of their strong Greek identity thanks to the presence of strong community organizations, community-run schools, many ethnic associations and the Greek Orthodox patriarchate of Alexandria and its many churches. Typically, one Greek who was leaving Egypt for Greece in the late 1940s wrote that he did not know whether he was leaving or he was travelling to his country.

TNH: What was the most challenging aspect of researching and writing the book?

AK: The greatest challenge I faced was striking the right balance between two things. The first was acknowledging that at least through the end of the 1940s the Greeks, as had the other foreign communities, enjoyed a set of privileges – immunity from local laws and taxation – in Egypt that gave them an advantage over the local population. The second was that despite those privileges, the Greeks contributed significantly to Egypt’s economic and social modernization and they maintained close and respectful ties with the local population.

For example, the wealthy Greeks who were dominant in Egypt’s economic mainstay, the cultivation and export of cotton, including the Benachi, Salvago and Choremi families, obviously owed the wealth they amassed to the presence of the British in Egypt which lasted from 1882 to 1951, and the privileges they enjoyed. Nonetheless, they also invested in other sectors of the economy which the British were unconcerned about, and their success attracted other entrepreneurs, such as cigarette manufacturers who also developed other sectors of the Egyptian economy. And the growth of the cotton sector they led, contributed to the work of several Greek agriculturalists who developed higher and higher quality types of cotton, thus benefitting Egypt. In many cases those developments troubled the British authorities because the textile owners in northern England did not want to adjust their machinery to accommodate new types of cotton.

Many Greeks from Egypt who look back on their stay in that country with nostalgia, believe that when scholars mention the privileges the Greeks enjoyed that somehow detracts from the enormous contributions the Greeks made. I have tried to show that the Greek experience in Egypt was characterized by both privileges and contributions.

TNH: What are you working on next?

AK: I have just completed a book manuscript on the history of the relationship between Greek Orthodoxy and Greek America. It explores the ways Greek Orthodoxy has shaped Greek American identity in the twentieth century. I relied a great deal on the excellent archives of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in New York, the help of archivist Nikie Calles and many others including Fr. Robert Stephanopoulos and Fr. Alex Karloutsos. The book will be published in 2020 in the Orthodox Christianity Series of the Northern Illinois University Press which is an imprint of Cornell University Press.

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NASHUA, NH – Vasiliki Nikitas, 78, of Nashua, New Hampshire, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family after a brief period of illness.

Born on October 3, 1940 in Greece, she was the daughter of the late Penelope and Elias Nikitas.

Vasiliki was educated in Greece as a nurse and immigrated to the United States in 1970.

She most enjoyed being with her family, and she also thoroughly enjoyed working and took pleasure in her garden. She was admired for her work ethic and passion for life.

Besides her parents, Vasiliki was predeceased by her brother Nicholas Nikitas.

Members of her family include her brother, Andreas Nikitas of Nashua, NH; sister, Effie Heinz-Akeret of Switzerland; Maria Koukoutsis of Greece, and sister-in-law Efrosini Nikitas of Greece, and nieces and nephews, Penny, Elias, Myra, Christina, Nicole, and Andy.

Her Funeral Service was held at the St. Philip Greek Orthodox Church and the burial was at Woodlawn Cemetery, Nashua, NH.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Philip Greek Orthodox Church, 500 West Hollis Street, Nashua, NH. 03062.

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NEW YORK – Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney called for the House of Representatives to begin the impeachment process at a rally at Foley Square in New York on June 15.

“I’ve been thinking about impeachment for a long time. It’s is not something that Congress, or our country, can undertake lightly – it’s a terrible, weighty thing.

“After carefully reviewing evidence laid out in the Mueller Report, after attending numerous hearings, after listening to the concerns of my constituents, and after doing as much soul-searching as I’ve ever done in my life – it is my inescapable conclusion that the House of Representatives must open an impeachment inquiry against the President of the United States. Just this week, the President went on national television and said that he would accept information from a foreign government in the course of the campaign, putting himself in the debt of a foreign power. He has learned nothing from the Mueller report and investigation. He has said that he will continue to stonewall any investigation and fight every subpoena, before he even sees them. He continues to put himself above the law and his own interests over the American people and our democracy.”

Maloney concluded by saying, “I do not say this lightly. Impeachment is going to be a painful ordeal for our already divided nation. But, given the evidence we’ve seen of numerous violations of public trust and democratic norms, our commitment to the Constitution demands our action. And the strength of our faith in the Constitution gives me hope that we will emerge stronger than before.”

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