ASTORIA – Greek Nights have returned to Athens Square Park in Astoria for the summer. Tuesday nights will once again feature the much-anticipated program of Greek music and dancing, organized by the Athens Square Committee, through September 24.

The virtuoso of the bouzouki and well-known social worker, Nicos Nicolaides, and the Cosmopolitans orchestra, along with singer Olga Panteli, opened this year’s Greek Nights in Athens Square, in the presence of many Greeks who enjoyed the music program which transforms the park into a traditional village square in Greece.

“As happened last year, but also other years, it is a great pleasure to be chosen to open these festive nights. The event was amazing, the crowd gathered, we played nice songs, which people enjoyed. I really liked that when we were playing the acoustic songs, they listened to us with care and, in the end, they rewarded us with a great applause,” Nicolaides told The National Herald after the event.

The program included many traditional and timeless songs, which are familiar to all ages, encouraging all those present to join in the joy and dancing.

“I approach these evenings as a social worker. So I can tell you that they mean something more than a musical event: They give people who might not be able to afford going out to live shows the opportunity to have fun at a Greek musical program in the park and enjoy these events as if they were in Greece,” Nicolaides said.

It should be noted that Nicos Nicolaides and the Cosmopolitans, along with Olga Panteli, will return to Athens Square next Tuesday for a second appearance. According to Nicolaides, the appearance was initially scheduled for later in the summer, but rescheduled due to his own summer.

In any case, the Athens Square program includes other well-known names in Greek music such as Andreas Modinos (July 23 and August 20), Tasos Papaioannou (July 30), Melodia (August 6), Christos Kostaras (August 13 and September 17), Grigoris Maninakis (September 3), Long Island Voices Choir (September 24) and theme nights, such as the Rebetiko nights (August 27 and September 10).

The Noora Belly Dancers will also be performing next Tuesday.

Of course, behind the musicians and sponsors who undertake to financially support events of their own accord, there is the Organizing Committee of Athens Square, which has managed, over the last seven years, to establish in the everyday life of the Greek community the summer of Greek Nights.

The committee’s 2nd Vice-President Panos Adamopoulos spoke with TNH and noted that “we started these events seven years ago with an artistic program that lasted for 3-4 weeks. Now we have reached the point of lasting for three months, since many times, when the weather conditions allow it, we continue into October. We are very excited about the community attending, listening to the music, and having a good time. We would say that it has evolved into a Greek Music Festival every Tuesday night. We are grateful to the President George Delis, George Alexiou, and George Stamatiades, for the enormous work they are doing as volunteers to continue these events.”

Delis, Alexiou, and Adamopoulos, welcomed everyone, wished them a “good summer,” and noted that the Greek Nights in Athens Square are a “taste of Greece.”

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ATHENS – Newly appointed Deputy Foreign Minister for Overseas Greeks Antonis Diamataris said he would do whatever possible to further strengthen relations between Greece and Greeks living abroad, whom he served as an owner and publisher of the National Herald newspaper in the United States.

In the handover from former Minister Terens Quick, Diamataris said, “I served the Greeks of America for 40 full years from the position of publisher and manager of the National Herald, a daily paper founded in 1915,” and noted he had focused on conveying information to Greeks abroad so they could retain their national identity.

He also recognized Quick’s efforts to connect Greeks abroad with Greece, to which the former minister responded that as a journalist Diamataris “has the pulse of the people and knows Greeks abroad and in the US in particular better than anyone else.”

Μετά από δύο ώρες ενημέρωση στο νέο ΥΦΥΠΕΞ κ.Αντώνη Διαματάρη,του παρέδωσα το χαρτοφυλάκιό μου για τον Απόδημο Ελληνισμό.Επίσης 15 φακέλους με δράσεις που τρέχουν &πάνω από 150 σελίδες που περιγράφουν όλο το έργο μου,όχι μόνο του ομογενειακού τομέα. Εύχομαι να έχει καλή επιτυχία pic.twitter.com/wyAb825uec

— Terens Quick (@TerensQuick) July 10, 2019

Reviewing his tenure, Quick said that in 2 years and 8 months he tried to visit the Greek diaspora in the world. “There were Greek communities that saw a minister from their Greek homeland visit them for the first time, or a government representative for the first time in 48 years,” the former minister said, “especially in Sub-Saharan countries, where Greeks are very dynamic in business acumen if not in numbers, and where we are beginning to build again bilateral diplomatic and political relations.”

He also noted he never involved party politics in his visits and he presented Diamataris with the draft bill for a new Council of Greeks Abroad, which includes “two significant parameters, its self-organization and its self-funding.”

Ξενάγηση του νέου ΥΦΥΠΕΞ Απόδημου Ελληνισμου κ. Αντώνη Διαματάρη στους χώρους του Γραφείου του pic.twitter.com/uyKqrSPxMo

— Terens Quick (@TerensQuick) July 10, 2019

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DELMAR, NY – Troy AHEPA Chapter 306, Schenectady AHEPA Chapter 125, and Albany AHEPA Chapter 140 donated $4,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities on July 8. The funds were raised at the 1st Annual Eleftheria Capital Region AHEPA Golf Outing held on June 12 at Normanside Country Club in Delmar. More than eight months of planning by the Golf Committee resulted in a rousing success as 130 players on 33 teams competed for the championship trophy on a gorgeous, sun-kissed afternoon. The players enjoyed a fun-filled day of fellowship, great food, wonderful prizes, and challenging golf. The dinner banquet, which featured the raffle drawings of 80 donated gifts, was attended by over 160 people.

The sold-out golf outing received the overwhelming support of the business community of the Capital Region with dozens of sponsorships and donations. Planning is already underway for the 2nd Annual Capital Region AHEPA Golf Outing on June 10, 2020.

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NEW YORK – His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros received a letter of congratulations from President Donald Trump for his enthronement as Archbishop of America.

The text of the President’s letter follows:

“Your Eminence,

“I send my warmest congratulations on your enthronement as Archbishop of the Greek Archdiocese of America. Melania and I join your family and community in celebrating this momentous occasion.

“Our Nation has a long history of drawing strength from faith, and I commend your efforts to instill and nurture the sacred values our country holds dear. The Greek Orthodox Church offers comfort and healing, as well as great joy, fellowship, and peace. For America’s Orthodox faithful, the church is central to life’s most meaningful moments and milestones.

“May God bless you, and may He continue to bless the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
Sincerely,

“Donald J. Trump (signature)”

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NEW YORK – On July 12, Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris issued an emergency guide for New Yorkers facing deportation. The handout outlines for individuals and families how to handle potential visits from immigration enforcement agents. Media reports speculate that raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents seeking to deport thousands could begin in earnest as early as Sunday.

“ICE is carrying out a destructive federal policy tearing families apart and I will do whatever is needed to help New Yorkers fight this tragic policy,” said Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris. “I hope this guide serves as a resource for families to protect themselves against divisive and threatening federal policies.”

Senator Gianaris has been an outspoken advocate against ICE’s treatment of undocumented New Yorkers. Last year, he was one of the first state legislators in the nation to call for abolishing ICE. Senator Gianaris was also the first person to greet Yeni Gonzalez, a Guatemalan mother separated from her children at the southern border, as she arrived in New York to reunite with her family. He authored legislation to ban discrimination based on immigration status and to prevent the use of Port Authority police from participating in federal anti-immigrant travel bans.

The resource guide is available in both English and Spanish. Copies are available at the Senator’s office, 31-19 Newtown Avenue in Astoria, and online here:  https://bit.ly/2G8ZGLm.

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BOSTON – The delegates of the 97^th Convention of the Order of AHEPA in Chicago elected unanimously George G. Horiates, Esq., of Moorestown, N.J. to be their new Supreme President. Horiates, 52, ran unopposed in elections that were held July 5. Formal installation ceremonies were held July 6.

In his inaugural remarks, Supreme President Horiates paid tribute to our community’s immigrant forebears, including his own who came to the United States as survivors of World War II, stating that “the Greek-American community has an obligation to preserve and project its Hellenic heritage to ensure its survives for future generations”.

The new Supreme President, who is a member of Chapter 69, Camden, N.J., also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the delegates for entrusting him to lead the Order into the start of the next decade.  He stated he is looking forward to working with the Brotherhood as “One AHEPA.”

Moreover, Horiates articulated an overarching goal of reinvigorating AHEPA’s base while continuing outreach to the community. In doing so, he has set the ambitious goal of increasing membership collectively between all four Orders of the AHEPA Family to 100,000.

The AHEPA Supreme Lodge is the international governing body of the organization.

The Executive Committee of the 2019-20 Supreme Lodge is comprised of: Canadian President Christos Argiriou, Winnipeg, Manitoba; Supreme Vice President Jimmy Kokotas, Brooklyn, N.Y.; Supreme Secretary James Stasios, Wilmington, N.C.; Supreme Treasurer Savas Tsivicos, Wayside, N.J.; and Supreme Counselor Louis G. Atsaves, Esq., Lake Forest, Ill.

During the exclusive interview he gave to The National Herald Horiates was asked how he felt about his election. “It is very humbling,” he said. “We love what the AHEPA represents, its values, its history, its family and the great list of things that AHEPA has done for Hellenism for 97 years, like the programs that has established. These days AHEPA continues its mission as is the case in Thessaloniki, the Greek Relief for Fires program, and the Odyssey Charter School in Delaware. Most recently we went to Capitol Hill and to the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity were His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros recognized AHEPA as defenders of Orthodoxy and Hellenism.”

Regarding the recent Convention he said “we had, combined, approximately five hundred delegates and about five thousand people here. The Order of AHEPA itself had 240 delegates and 40 observers representing 180 chapters.”

Asked what the Convention achieved, Horiates said, “The first and foremost thing was the rededication to rebuilding and improving upon membership, the goal of one hundred thousand members. Within three years we are going to have the centennial of AHEPA and the bicentennial of Greece. Now that the world recognizes that Turkey is not a reliable ally of the United States and with what is going on regarding Cyprus and Macedonia, with the Pontian Genocide not recognized by its perpetrators, we are awaking up as the Greeks of Diaspora and we are recruiting members among Hellenes and Philhellenes because if we don’t do it, who will do it? All of the Hellenes throughout the world [should] join AHEPA because we are the defenders of Hellenism. We will go to Capitol Hill and let the world know we are AHEPA. He must let the world know about all the wonderful programs and to let the world and its leaders know that we are the defenders of Hellenism.”

When he was asked about the new Archbishop, Elpidophoros, he said “The Archbishop was sent by God and will be with us every step of the way and more importantly we will be with him every step of the way to ignite the flame not only of Orthodoxy, but the flame that [unites] the Church and Greeks nationwide and in fact worldwide. The Order of AHEPA is one hundred present behind him, we accept him not only as the representative of the Ecumenical Patriarch, but we accept him as the representative of Hellenism and Orthodoxy.”

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ATHENS – Greece is well-known as a top destination for tourists from every corner of the globe and, of course, celebrities also enjoy spending their summers in the Greek isles and on some of the best beaches in the world. Among the celebrities, Greek-Canadian actress Nia Vardalos visited her friends Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson at their home on Antiparos.

“Greece I Love You,” she commented on her first selfie from her visit to the island, and later, she posted other photos with her friends.

Also, spending time in Greece this summer, Bono of U2 with his wife, their children, and friends, visited Hydra as their first destination. His visit, in fact, went viral on the internet when he posted a photo on his social media along with his loved ones outside of Leonard Cohen’s home.

The famous singer and his family then visited Mykonos.

Kendall Jenner spent her holidays in Mykonos as well. The model and member of the well-known reality-show family, Kardashian-Jenner, chose to visit the island of the winds yet again and filled her Instagram account with photos and videos of carefree moments with her friends.

Actor Matthew McConaughey is also in Greece again this summer and in particular on Antiparos.

Scott Eastwood (Clint Eastwood’s son) is spending a relaxing time in Mykonos with his girlfriend, as he said in a Twitter post.

Antiparos and Mykonos are not the only islands enchanting the famous. According to rodiaki.gr, the iconic English guitarist, singer and songwriter Eric Clapton is in Rhodes on holiday on the private yacht “Va Bene.”

The legendary artist and his guests are enjoying the beauty of the island of the Knights and its beaches.

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JULY 12-13
PRICE, UT – Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 61 S. 2nd Street in Price, holds its annual Greek Festival July 12-13, 11 AM-11PM, both days. Enjoy Greek food and pastries, vendors, church tours, traditional Greek coffee, bookstore, raffle, silent auction, bingo, 5k run, live Greek band and dancing. More information is available by phone: 435-637-0704 and online: www.agoc.ut.goarch.org.

JULY 12-14
REDONDO BEACH, CA – St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 722 Knob Hill in Redondo Beach holds its annual Greek Festival July 12-14. Enjoy Greek foods, pastries, church tours, raffle, marketplace, live Greek music and dancing, and games for the kids. Admission: $2, Seniors: $1, Kids Under 12: Free. Hours: Friday, July 12, 5-10 PM; Saturday, July 13, Noon-10 PM; and Sunday, July 14, Noon-9 PM. More information is available by phone: 310-540-2434 and online: www.sbgreekfestival.com.

MERRILLVILLE, IN – Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 8000 Madison Street in Merrillville, holds its annual Greek Festival July 12-14. Enjoy Greek foods, pastries, market, raffle, live Greek music and dancing. Hours: Friday, July 12, 5-11 PM; Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14, Noon-11 PM. More information is available by phone: 219-769-2481 and online: ssconstantineandhelen.org.

JULY 13-14
IPSWICH, MA – Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Church holds its annual Greek Festival July 13-14 at the Hellenic Center, 117 Country Road in Ipswich. Enjoy Greek foods, pastries, Baklava Sundaes, raffles, Greek and American music and dancing, Dance troupes, live music by Enosis, music mixed by DJ Charlie Pentikis. Admission is $5 and is valid for both days. Children under 10 are free. Plenty of free parking. Hours: Saturday, Jul. 13, 1-11 PM and Sunday, Jul. 14, 1-7 PM. More information is available by phone: 978-356-9730 and online: greekfestivalipswich.weebly.com.

JULY 15
SALEM, MA – The 27th Annual Nicholas J. Bouras Memorial Hellenic College Holy Cross Golf Classic takes place Monday, July 15 at the Kernwood Country Club, 1 Kernwood Street in Salem. The event begins with a gift and brunch followed by souvlaki and loukaniko served on the course, golf, hors d’oeuvres, complimentary cocktails, and a surf and turf dinner. Group and individual trophies will be awarded at the dinner along with raffle prizes. A $50,000 cash prize will be awarded for a hole-in-one. More information is available online: www.kernwood.org.

JULY 18-21
SCHERERVILLE, IN – St. George Hellenic Orthodox Church, 528 77th Avenue in Schererville, holds its annual Greek Festival July 18-21. Enjoy Greek foods, pastries, live Greek dancing and music. Free admission. Hours: Thursday, Jul. 18, 4-10 PM; Friday, Jul. 19, Saturday, Jul. 20, and Sunday, Jul. 21, Noon-10 PM. More information is available by phone: 219-322-6165 and online: stgeorgenwi.org/greek-fest.

JULY 19-21
NILES, IL – Holy Taxiarhai and Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 7373 North Caldwell Avenue in Niles, holds its annual Greek Festival July 19-21. Sample the scents, sounds and especially tastes of a Greek village festival. Enjoy homemade pastitso, moussaka, tyropita, spanakopita, Greek pastries and, of course, loukoumades. Entertainment includes live Greek music and an authentic Greek Dance Troupe. Kid’s Korner is a secure area where parents can bring their children to play and enjoy family friendly entertainment, face painting, crafts, a clown balloon artist, games and much more! Admission is free, donations are appreciated. Free parking. Hours: Friday, Jul. 19, 5 PM-Midnight; Saturday, Jul. 20 and Sunday, Jul. 21, 3 PM-Midnight. More information is available by phone: 847-647-8880 and online: biggreekfoodfestofniles.org.

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 additional 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.

JULY 25-28
MIDDLETOWN, OH – Saints Constantine and Helen Church, 2500 Grand Avenue in Middletown, holds its 52nd Annual Greek Festival July 25-28. Enjoy Greek foods, pastries, baklava sundaes, dancing, Greek jewelry, church tours, glass blowing, and cultural experiences. Live Greek music and dancing. Games for the kids. Hours: Thursday, Jul. 25, 5-8 PM; Friday, Jul. 26, 5-10 PM; Saturday, Jul. 27, 4-10 PM; and Sunday, Jul. 28, Noon-5 PM. Note: On Thursday, 5-8 PM, gyros and pastries are served to go only. Pre-order available for pastries online through July 22 for pickup during the festival. More information is available by phone: 513-422-2312 and online: middletowngreekfest.com.

JULY 26-28
CHICAGO, IL – St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2727 W. Winona Street in Chicago, holds its 70th Annual Greek Festival July 26-28. Enjoy Greek food and pastries, raffle, marketplace, live Greek band, music, and dancing. Hours: Friday, Jul. 26, 5-11 PM; Saturday, Jul. 27, 3-11 PM; and Sunday, Jul. 28, Noon-10 PM. More information is available by phone: 773-561-5992 and online: stdemetriosgreekfest.com.

NEWBURYPORT, MA – The Greek Food Festival at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 7 Harris Street in Newburyport, takes place July 26-28. Homemade Greek food and pastries; gyros, lamb shanks, chicken and lamb souvlakia, keftedes, spinach pie, pastitsio, moussaka, Greek salad. Rain or shine. Air-conditioned hall. Entertainment includes Greek music and dance. Hours: Friday, Jul. 26 and Saturday, Jul. 27, 11 AM-9 PM; and Sunday, Jul. 28, 11 AM-5 PM. More information is available by phone: 978-465-5757 and online: annunciation.ma.goarch.org.

OCEAN CITY, MD – St. George Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival July 26-28 at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 41st Street & Coastal Hwy Bayside in Ocean City. Enjoy authentic traditional Greek cuisine, all menu items are available for lunch or dinner times, dine in or carry out, including: baked lemon chicken, lamb shank, keftedes, dolmathes, spanakopita, tyropites, Greek salad, pastitsio, moussaka, baked veggies, and gyro. For dessert, real Greek coffee and Greek pastries, loukoumades and rice pudding. Entertainment: Live Greek band and authentic Greek dance performers. Air-conditioned hall, handicap access, ATM on site. Visa/Mastercard/Discover accepted for food and vendor purchases. Free admission and free parking. Hours: Friday, Jul. 26 and Saturday, Jul. 27, Noon-11 PM; and Sunday, Jul. 27, Noon-9 PM. More information is available by phone: 410-524-0990 and online: oceancitygreekfestival.com.

SIOUX CITY, IA – Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 900 6th Street in Sioux City, holds its annual Greek Festival July 26-28. Enjoy Greek foods like gyros, spanikopita, baklava, Greek music and dancing, gift shop with jewelry and clothes, and a Mediterranean grocery store. Hours: Friday, Jul. 26, 6-10 PM; Saturday, Jul. 27, 11 AM- 10 PM; and Sunday, Jul. 28, 11 AM-3 PM. More information is available by phone: 712-255-5559 and online: holytrinity.ia.goarch.org.

JULY 27-28
SANTA BARBARA, CA – St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival at Oak Park, 600 West Junipero Street in Santa Barbara, July 27-28, 11 AM-7 PM, both days. Enjoy delectable Greek festival favorites like gyros and moussaka, live Greek music and folk dancing, raffle, and vendors. Free admission and free parking. More information is available by phone: 805-683-4492 and online: santabarbaragreekfestival.org.

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CORERIS, MANUEL
SANTA ROSA, CA (from the Press Democrat, published on Jul. 3) – Manuel “Mike” Coreris June 30, 1948-June 27. Mike suffered from congestive heart failure for several years leading to kidney and liver failure. It is bittersweet that he was released from this life on the evening of June 27 surrounded by his family. Manuel “Mike” Gus Coreris was born in San Francisco into a 100% Greek family – both sets of grandparents emigrated from Greece. He is survived by his wife, Paddy Robotham Carrillo Coreris; sister, Luci (Jim) Selby; step-sons Adam (Nicole) Carrillo and Brandon (Blythe) Carrillo; grandchildren, Austin, Alyssa, Ashley, Tava, Aulin, Hailee, and Kaitlyn; nieces, Stefanie (John) Cromwell and their children, Gus and Gwendolyn, and Natalie (Mike) Weston; aunt, Beatrice Picras; cousins, Lucille (Tom) Lynn and their children, Nick and Jamie, and Tammi (Greg) Leggins and their children Justin and Nicole; numerous in-laws; and dear little Yorkie gem, Fiona May. Mike was predeceased by his parents Gus Manuel Coreris and Katherine Picras Coreris. Mike graduated from Lowell High School in San Francisco and the University of San Francisco. He proudly served with the San Francisco and Santa Rosa police departments and nearly 20 years with American Express. A 30+ year woodcarver with the Sonoma County Woodcarvers gave him much enjoyment as did the local Civil War Roundtable and volunteering with the Pacific Coast Air Museum. His Greek Orthodox heritage was very important to him as was using his warm bass voice to sing in the First Presbyterian Church choir and read scripture for the congregation. Precious, generous, gregarious, loving, funny, talented, smart, friendly, and sweet Mike will be greatly missed. A Celebration of the Life of Mike will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Rosa on Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 1 pm. Please consider donations to the following organizations in memory of Mike: First Presbyterian Church of Santa Rosa, 1550 Pacific Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95404; Memorial Hospice, 439 College Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401; or online to The American Heart Association.

KARAS, ANN
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (from the San Francisco Chronicle, published on Jul. 7) – On Friday, June 28, Ann Karas, who was a beloved sister, aunt, godmother, great aunt and friend, unexpectedly passed away. Ann was born in 1941 to John and Georgia Karas in Argos, Greece. The Karas family immigrated to the United States to San Francisco, CA in 1956. Ann worked in the insurance business for 40 years. Ann loved to belly dance and rarely missed an opportunity to showcase her talents at different venues or to put on her own shows. She also loved tending to her garden. She had the most beautiful flowers, figs, and a variety of fruit to share with her family and friends. Ann thoroughly enjoyed going to the gym for pilates and yoga. She was preceded in death by her father, mother, brothers Steven and Dimitrios, and sister, Anastasia. She is survived by her sister, Kathy and brothers Bill, Jim, Angie, and Chris; nieces: Gina and Joanna; and nephews Jon, Jimmy, and Jeremey and their nine children. In addition, she has numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins, in Greece, Australia, and the United States. The funeral service was held at Holy Trinity Church in San Francisco. Burial followed at Greek Orthodox Memorial Park, Colma.

KLIOSSIS, KLEOMENIS
ATLANTA, GA (from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, published on June 30) – Kleomenis Angelo Kliossis was born on January 2, 1926, in Koutsopodi, a village in Greece located near the city of Argos. Kleomenis was the 13th of 15 children born to Angelo D. Kliossis, and the 5th of 7 children born to Despina Kliossis. Although they were not wealthy in material goods, their house was filled with love, and they always had food on the table. Much of his adolescence occurred during the Italian, and then German, occupation of Greece, followed immediately by the Greek Civil War. He said that the horrors of a nation fighting itself were even worse than the horrors of foreign invaders. Although he loved Greece, he dreamed of making a new life in America. He arrived in the United States in 1951, and his brother Demetri found him employment in a restaurant in the Boston/Cape Cod area. However, he couldn’t stand the cold, and ultimately left for Atlanta in 1952, working in various restaurants before settling in at Camelia Garden. He learned much from the owners, John Tuntas and Angelo Nikas (who would later be his best man) and discovered a talent for the restaurant business. It was in Atlanta that Kleomenis first saw his beloved wife, the former Georgia V. Economy, when she performed in a play at Church. He knew immediately that he had to meet her. They were married on January 18, 1953, at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation in Atlanta, and life was good. They were soon parents to three children: Angelo, Victor, and Christina. In 1968, he partnered with Nick Bitzis and George Papadopoulos to buy the Majestic restaurant from the original owners. Together, Kleomenis and his partners turned the Majestic into an Atlanta landmark, driven in part by their tireless work ethic, skill in the kitchen, and joyful nature. He once lamented to his children that he did not have a college degree, to which they said: “Maybe not, but you funded six of them.” Kleomenis lived a life of eternal optimism, supported by his deep faith, love of family and community, and an uncompromising belief in an America where anyone willing to work hard can succeed. Our Lord took him on the morning of June 28. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife Georgia, his granddaughter Carolyn Kliossis, his brother-in-law John V. Economy, and all of his siblings. He is survived by three children: Angelo (Sherry) Kliossis, Victor Kliossis, and Christina (Victor) Polizos; six grandchildren: Kolin Kliossis, Georgea Polizos, Constantine (Andrea) Polizos, Lukia Kliossis, Nicholas (Martha) Kliossis, and Elliot Kliossis. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Nick V. Economy (Angela), his sister-in-law Jean Economy, sister-in-law Louisa Kliossis and many wonderful nieces and nephews. May his memory be eternal. The Funeral service was held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Atlanta, GA on July 2. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation.

KRIAL, NICHOLAS
ABERDEEN, MD (from the Baltimore Sun, published on Jul. 3) – Nicholas Pierros Krial, 92, of Aberdeen, MD, died June 26 at home surrounded by family. He was born December 25, 1926, in Areopolis, Laconia, Greece, a son of Pierros and Penelope Krialis, the youngest of 14 children. Nicholas served honorably in the Greek army from 1946-1949 during the Communist insurgency and again, from 1951-1952, as part of the Greek United Nations Contingent during the Korean War. Nicholas was also an alternate distance runner on the Greek Olympic team at the Helsinki Summer Olympics in 1952. He was married to the Karolyn Skegas, in Athens, Greece, on November 28, 1957, emigrated to America and settled in Aberdeen, Maryland. Nicholas served as a physicist at both the Aberdeen Proving Ground and Edgewood Arsenal for over 40 years. Nicholas participated in the American nuclear testing program, principally in Nevada. Nicholas devoted himself to his family, friends, and the Greek and Masonic communities. In 1978, he became a Worshipful Master, the highest rank in a Masonic lodge. Over the years, Nicholas served in many positions of the Worthington Chapter #30 of AHEPA, culminating in his being both District and National AHEPAN of the Year in 2008. His favorite interest was chairing the AHEPAN scholarship fund, a fund awarding college scholarships. Karolyn preceded him in death in 2014; his brother Nikita survived him, as well as many nieces and nephews in the United States and in Greece. Services honoring his life were held at Tarring-Cargo Funeral Home, P.A. Aberdeen, MD on Saturday July 6. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the AHEPA Worthington Chapter#30 Scholarship Fund, 211 Butler Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136, www.ahepa30.org.

VAKOUROS, DIMITRIOS
WINTHROP, MA (from The Boston Globe, published on Jul. 6) – Dimitrios Vakouros of Winthrop passed away on July 2, at the age of 94. Beloved husband of Hrisoula (Plevritis) Vakouros. Devoted father of Polytimi Vakouros of New York, NY. Born in Sparti, Greece, he was the cherished son of the late Paul and Polytimi (Adristakou) Vakouros. Dear brother of Christos Vakouros and his wife Eugenia of Winthrop and Theodore Vakouros and his wife Heido of Greece. He is also lovingly survived by several nieces, nephews, his brother-in-law, and sisters-in-law. His Funeral was held at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Donations in his memory can be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Lynn. For guestbook and directions, please visit our website at mauricekirbyfh.com Maurice W. Kirby Funeral Home Winthrop 617-846-0909.

VOYATZIS, CONSTANTINE
TORONTO, CANADA (from The Globe and Mail, published on June 29) – Constantine George Voyatzis “Dino” July 23, 1924-June 21. Dino Voyatzis was a man of incredible warmth, grace, and humility. He was known for his remarkably resilient and determined spirit, his love of cooking for friends and family, his hobbies of carpentry and photography and his keen interest in history and films. Dino passed away at Michael Garron Hospital on June 21, 2019 surrounded by his loved ones. A loving and devoted family man, Dino is survived by his wife of 67 years, Irene (Heggie) Voyatzis. Caring and supportive father to Timon (Colleen), Athena (Brian) and Paul (Estee) and his six grandchildren Gregory, Nicholas, Mia, Anna, Christian and Deanna. Born in Alexandria Egypt to Greek parents, and predeceased by his older brother Nicholas (Katie) and beloved uncle to George and Alex Voyatzis. Dino began his career as a Naval officer and Captain of a Minesweeper for the Royal Greek Navy in the 1940’s. He was once presented a medal from the King of Greece for winning the 100-meter dash in the Navy Games. He earned his Engineering Degree at St. Andrews University in Dundee Scotland, where he fell in love with art student Irene Heggie. Married in July 1952, they came to Canada to begin their life and family together. He had a long and rewarding engineering career with Ontario Hydro, saving his vacation time for nomadic camping trips through Canada and the United States until finally parking the tent trailer on a plot of land near Parry Sound to build the family cottage from scratch. Dino’s love and devotion to family and his beautiful wife Irene never wavered, even in her late stages of progressive dementia. He will always be lovingly missed by all those whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart & Stroke Foundation.

ZARKOS, GEORGE
CHICAGO, IL (published online, Jun. 19) – George S. Zarkos “Big Z”, born on February 12, 1937 in Stimanga, Corinth, Greece, to the late Spiro and the late Athanasia Zarkos, passed away at age 82 on June 18 in Chicago, Illinois. Beloved husband of Dena, nee Romas; Loving Father of Nancy (Tom) Stamatelos, Eleni (George) Moutidis and Spiro G. (Lili) Zarkos; Proud Grandfather of Zoe, Dena, Patricia, Anastasia, Dena, Alexia, and George; Dear Brother of Vaso (Andonis) Strigas, Elias (Ageliki) Zarkos; Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Restauranteur and Businessman. Family and Friends met at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago for Visitation on June 20 until the Funeral service begins. Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery, River Grove, Illinois.

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NEW YORK (AP) — On the anniversary of a 1977 blackout that left most of New York City without power, a massive power outage on a hot Saturday night in Manhattan preemptively brought the curtain down on Broadway shows and packed streets with people wielding cellphones as flashlights amid a cacophony of sirens and horns from stalled traffic.

Underground, the scene was similarly in disarray as the blackout affecting 73,000 customers for more than three hours hit the subway system. Con Edison CEO John McAvoy said a problem at a substation caused the 6:47 p.m. power failure, which stretched 30 blocks from Times Square to 72nd Street and Broadway and spread to Rockefeller Center. Electricity was restored to customers and businesses in midtown Manhattan and the Upper West Side by around midnight, according to a statement from the utility.

McAvoy said the exact cause of the blackout would not be known until an investigation is completed.

The outage affected the entire subway system, closing four Manhattan stations to the public — Columbus Circle, Rockefeller Center, Hudson Yards and Fifth Avenue at 53rd Street. But Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Maxwell Young said train operators were able to manually change the signals and bring at least one car into stations so passengers could disembark.

New York City’s Emergency Management Department said the A, C, D, E, F, M, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 trains had resumed running in both directions by around 2 a.m. Sunday, following service disruptions from the blackout. Multiple street lanes between the Hudson River and Fifth Avenue had also reopened by 1:30 a.m.

The temperature was in the low 80s as the sun set just before 8:30 p.m., treating those who had streamed into the street to one of the city’s famed “Manhattanhenge” sunsets. While hot, the temperature didn’t reach the highs of Manhattan in July, which often challenges the city’s power grid.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo praised emergency officials for their response to the blackout and said no injuries were reported, but called the outage “unacceptable.”

“You just can’t have a power outage of this magnitude in this city” Cuomo said. “It is too dangerous, the potential for public safety risk and chaos is too high, we just can’t have a system that does that, it’s that simple at the end of the day.”

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio was campaigning on the presidential trail in Iowa when the power outage struck. His press secretary, Freddi Goldstein, tweeted just before 10 p.m. that de Blasio cut short his Iowa visit and was headed back to the city.

The mayor commended New Yorkers for handling the blackout “with that trademark NYC grit and toughness” in a tweet.

For hours before the power flicked back on, doormen stood with flashlights in the darkened entrances of upscale apartment buildings along Central Park West, directing residents up flights of stairs, with all elevators out. Police and deployed troopers directed traffic at intersections, while people in the neighborhood known as Hell’s Kitchen took it upon themselves to direct traffic as stoplights and walking signals went dark.

In the theater district, marquees darkened just before evening performances were set to begin. Most Broadway musicals and plays canceled their Saturday evening shows, though some cast members staged impromptu performances in the street.

Jennifer Lopez’s concert at Madison Square Garden was cut short in the middle of her fourth song of the night, although officials at Penn Station below used backup generators to keep the lights on. Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts were all evacuated. Lopez later tweeted that she would reschedule the stop on her “It’s My Party” tour for Monday night at the same venue.

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Author, nutritionist, health and fitness coach, and TV host and Producer Yanna Darilis spoke with The National Herald about what it takes to be healthy shared some health and fitness secrets with its readers.

The National Herald: Thank you for sharing your knowledge with our readers Yanna!

Yanna Darilis: Thank you Catherina. It’s my pleasure to share some secrets about health! I would like to begin by saying, everyone is interested in their health, and most people actually know what is good for them, but they usually don’t apply it to their lifestyle.

TNH: What is the best diet?

YD: I don’t like to use the word diet in my vocabulary, I prefer to say the biggest part of being healthy is our lifestyle, and an important part of our lifestyle is how we eat. The best advice I have to give on a general note about food is that it is best to eat whatever is from nature. The least processed food is the healthiest. The earth has provided all the nutrients we need to survive and to heal our bodies. Your meals should be eaten 5-6 hours apart and contain lots of leafy green and mutli-colored vegetables, protein, such as organic meat, poultry, or wild caught fish, vegetarian sources, as well such as nuts and seeds such as hemp, almonds, quinoa, beans such as soy, edamame, lentils, and chick peas. Your meal should also contain complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, ancient grains such as spelt, amaranth, whole grains, and should include unsaturated fat. Fruits are also part of the complex carbohydrate group and should be eaten in order to obtain the fiber necessary to balance your glycemic index and avoid spikes in blood sugar. This is why when juicing it is important to have the pulp, so as not to drive up your sugar levels.

Hippocrates had a lot to say about this, as he pioneered that food is our medicine. Nature provided everything that we need to nourish us and heal us when necessary. Over the years, unfortunately, the way food has been manufactured and the way animals are raised has become a hazard to our health. Research has shown that over-processed food empty in calories and high in sugar is playing a major factor in the rise of obesity worldwide. The pesticides and other chemicals used in food production is also causing serious health issues. Therefore, when at the supermarket, chose organic produce, and organic, antibiotic, hormone-free, humanely grown animal products. What is also important is to try to eliminate sugar if possible, however, if you cannot, then really try to cut down on sugar! Sugar is the culprit in a plethora of health problems. Also, the biggest lie about dieting is to go low fat. Fat is an essential source of energy in the human body. Unsaturated fat is healthy and vital for our bodies. Do not be afraid of unsaturated fat, and keep in mind one of the healthiest diets in the world is the Mediterranean diet, and olive oil is a staple product and main component of that diet. So when in doubt about what to eat, keep it safe and chose nature. Thus, we need to be mindful about what we are eating today, and live by the phrase “Pan Metron Ariston” – all in good measure – which when applied to food, is quite important for energy balance.

A major issue to add to this topic is the obesity crisis that the world is suffering from; obesity levels are rising not only in adults, but also in children. The global figures show that 1.9 billion adults, which is 39% of the world, are overweight, and one in 10 humans are obese. These are highly alarming numbers, and what is more alarming is that they are rising. Being overweight and obese means there are a tremendous amount of health risks for diseases such as: Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and an array of orthopedic and arthritic problems. Let’s start getting healthy! Let’s start caring about our lives and our children’s lives.

TNH: What about the latest diet trends?

YD: The Paleo and Keto diets are the latest in diet trends. The Paleo eating lifestyle replicates what our ancient forefathers usually ate: mostly few grains, no processed food, nor any sugar. Higher protein, more fat, less carbohydrates. I personally follow this type of diet.

The Ketogenic diet is a great way to lose weight, and eliminate sugar, however, it needs dedication to be done correctly. The problem is, it is difficult to sustain this diet, and actually needs care. One must be careful when keeping your body in a constant Ketogenic state. This diet causes a metabolic shift, from over utilizing glucose to using fat as the energy source in our bodies.

They both have some similarities, and research has shown that both Paleo and Ketogenic diets result in lower-triglycerides, lower blood pressure, insulin, and blood sugar.

The Paleo diet in my opinion is a more wholesome approach, and does not include dairy and gluten, which may cause disruption of the intestines. Paleo also does not include artificial sweeteners, which have been proven to be difficult to metabolize and some are unhealthy. Please be aware that before engaging in any diet, it is always suggested to consult with your doctor first.

TNH: What is the most important thing to remember about how we eat?

YD: The most important thing to remember is how we feel after eating. If we feel tired, this might mean our body cannot metabolize something we ate, or that it was high in sugar content, therefore spiking our insulin levels. If we feel very bloated and have gas after we eat, it may mean our body cannot digest something very well. We have all the instincts to know what is good and not good for us, we just have to listen – be more aware of what messages our body is giving us. If we have a rash after we eat something, it means we are allergic to it. So become a detective when eating and learn what works and does not work for you. What is good for someone else might not be good for you, bio-individuality is key when it comes to food.

TNH: Why do some people like to eat so much?

YD: Mostly because many people equate food with emotions. Food triggers hormonal responses that include endorphins, which are the feel good hormones.

TNH: So what should we be eating?

YD: We all know what is good and bad for us, so let us begin by saying all products from nature in their natural state are healthy. Over-processed foods are not. Nutrient-dense foods provide nourishment to our body, empty calories high in sugar do not.

TNH: Does chocolate cause acne?

YD: If you are referring to Chocolate in its processed sweet bar form, then acne flares are usually due to the sugar and not the cacao. Cacao beans have not been linked to causing acne. Cacao beans are one of the world’s superfoods in its raw form, they are high in calcium, iron, and magnesium, assisting in mental clarity, energy, and support your immune system due to high antioxidant benefits. They have also been found to help fight depression.

TNH: Should we be eating dark chocolate regularly?

YD: Eating cacao beans (raw form of chocolate) is very beneficial due to the benefits mentioned, thus eating a few beans daily are very good for you. Eating dark chocolate in the processed form of a chocolate bar with sugar and milk is not suggested.

TNH: Should we fast?

YD: Fasting has been practiced throughout the ages and it is used for a variety of reasons, spiritual, religious, physical, and for weight loss, to name a few. Whatever the reason, fasting is extremely beneficial, when done correctly.

TNH: How often and for how long?

YD: This depends on the end goal.

TNH: What are the health benefits?

YD: Mental clarity, regeneration of cells, elimination of toxins, fat burn, to name a few.

TNH: Should we exercise when we fast?

YP: It depends on what type of fasting you are doing. It is usually better when engaged in intermittent fasting, and yes it is safe, if you don’t have health problems, and the best time to exercise when fasting is in the morning, although studies have shown if you can last to the end of the fast and exercise before you break the fast, this is the most beneficial.

TNH: Do we need to take vitamins when we fast?

YD: Again, this depends on what type of fast you are doing. Whether Intermittent or longer duration fasting, you can take vitamins if the vitamins do not contain sugar or wheat. Gel vitamins are usually better. If you are engaged in intermittent fasting, I suggest taking the vitamins after you break the fast. It is important to note that vitamins in general should be taken when there are deficiencies, however, it has been shown that we can receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals that we need through food.

CD: How often should we detox?

YD: Detoxing refers to cleansing the body of toxins from your major organs, but not only that. Full cleanses are generally suggested two times a year, even up to four times a year according to health enthusiasts.

TNH: How about exercise?

YD: Exercise is a very important part of our pathway to a healthier life. Again I will say, “Pan Metron Ariston”, nothing in excess. Back in time, people were healthier because they walked, did physical labor on their farms, ate less, and ate more natural food. So I suggest exercising a minimum of two times a week for at least 30-45 minutes, a full body workout that includes aerobic, resistance training, and flexibility exercises.

TNH: Running or walking?

YD: Walking and running are aerobic exercises with the difference being intensity levels. Both improve your cardiovascular health and result in a variety of benefits. Whether one is better than the other depends on your physical fitness level, your physical health, and your fitness-health goals. Running is a higher intensity exercise, and has benefits such as higher caloric burn; more muscles are being utilized, and runners experience the “runner’s high” due to the release of endorphins, thus giving you a feel good effect. However, there is higher stress on the body, and may have downsides such as long term overuse injuries. Walking is always what I call a “safe proof” exercise for the body. Walking has tremendous benefits, it is a lower intensity, but more sustainable exercise method, however if you are choosing walking as an exercise to improve your cardiovascular fitness and to burn off calories (stored energy), then you must increase your pace so that you are making an effort to increase your heart rate, while at the same time have a comfortable gait. So walking is wonderful all around, even to get you some “active meditation” to clear your mind.

TNH: Does exercise combat depression and anxiety?

YD: Absolutely, along with the release of endorphins, Dr. Miller of Harvard Medical school has found that exercise supports nerve cell growth in the hippocampus (a region of the brain which helps regulate your mood), thus improving nerve cell connections, and that in turn helps fight depression.

TNH: How many times a week should we exercise?

YD: A minimum of once a week for maintenance, for weight loss maximum of 5-6 days a week. It all depends on your goal and physical fitness capabilities and limitations.

TNH: How do we increase our BMR?

YD: Basal Metabolic Rate can be increased when you exercise; the more muscle your body has, the higher your metabolism.

TNH: What should our fat percentage be according to our sex, body type, and age group?

YD: This depends on individual measurements. If men exceed fat percentile 25%, and women 32%, they are considered obese. This chart can help you gauge the general facts of percentile averages:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_fat_percentage

TNH: Is fat percentage more important than weight?

YD: Muscle weighs more than fat so I suggest to never really worry so much about the scale. It is better to see how your clothes fit to understand weight loss.

In closing, I would like to add that an integral part of being healthy actually also begins from our mind. I believe we need to add philosophy into our life. The great teachers of antiquity, including our very own Hellene, Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, also believed that health begins with our thoughts. It may be a hard concept to grasp, so let me simplify. One of the main things that trigger health problems is stress. Stress begins from a situation or circumstances that bring you to a place of worry and overthinking. The way we all deal with our problems is different, however one thing is usually the same, worrying. Worrying leads to overthinking and sometimes our thoughts may lead to create more stress by worrying about things that don’t even exist!

Simply, stress increases our cortisol levels and in turn causes many other conditions to arise, especially when stress becomes chronic.

TNH: So what is a good way to deal with it?

YD: Well, everyone deals with stress differently and that determines how it may affect our health. The best way to deal with stress is to apply stress-free strategies to our lives. Meditation and deep breaths are important, along with stretching. Try to problem-solve situations, try to see situations in a different light, add some philosophy into your life, and try to understand that all situations are in our life for us to learn and grow from. Try to take the drama out and add logic and pragmatism. These are a few ways to turn stress and worrying away from yourself and to direct energy towards solving an issue or changing something you don’t like instead of worrying about it.

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CHICAGO – His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America was enthusiastically welcomed by the delegates of 97^th Supreme Convention of the Order of AHEPA in Chicago. The Archbishop was the main speaker at the Grand Banquet on Friday evening, July 5, when he praised AHEPA’s contribution to Hellenism and the Orthodox Church.

The text of the Archbishop’s speech follows:

“Beloved members of the AHEPA Family,

Greetings to all of you in the grace of God and in His boundless love that has been revealed to us by our Risen Lord. It is in this love that you and faithful across our Holy Archdiocese have welcomed me as Archbishop of America, a sacred calling and responsibility to God and to the Church. Filled with His love and strength, and inspired by His divine presence and guidance for the work that is before us, I have entered this blessed pastorate of the Archdiocese of America so that together we may offer a compassionate and powerful witness of our faith throughout this great land and support the witness of Orthodoxy around the world.

“It is also in the love of God that I convey to you the greetings and blessings of His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.  You are dearly loved by him as your support for the Church and the Ecumenical Patriarchate, your longstanding witness of philanthropy, your commitment to Hellenic ideals, and your service to those in need exemplify the exhortation of the Apostle Paul: ‘whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.’ (Philippians 4:8).  Your witness as the AHEPA family affirms that you not only think about these things, but you do these things!

My heart is filled with joy to address you on this wonderful event of the Grand Banquet of the AHEPA Supreme Convention. This is a blessed opportunity for fellowship in the bonds that we share through our faith, our legacy, and our service. It is also an opportunity to affirm the great potential we have before us.

The witness that you offer as the AHEPA family is a witness of love: love for your fellow human beings, love for one another, and love for God. It is a love that comes from the unlimited love that God has shown us. The Holy Apostle John writes, ‘we love, because He first loved us (I John 4:19)…It is the love that surpasses all knowledge (Ephesians 3:19)…It is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), that bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things’(I Corinthians 13:7).

“And as people of faith whose lives have been transformed by the power of love, we know that we can never be separated from the Source of this love: ‘For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor power, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.’ (Romans 8:38-39).

In your service as members of AHEPA and in our service to God as His Church, we know that this love is not limited by distance. This is why I can convey and you can receive the love and blessings of our spiritual father, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew.  We share this love with our brothers and sisters throughout this nation and around the world. It is the love that unites us in Christ. It is the love that guides and inspires us to address the needs of our youth, the elderly, the orphan and widow, and all who need physical and spiritual healing. It is the love that leads us in gratitude to offer all that we are and have as a witness of our faith and for the glory of God.

“In addition, we know that this love cannot be limited by any power that is contrary to the will of God. We gather for this banquet during the annual commemoration of the independence of this great nation of the United States of America. This holiday is a celebration of freedom, and it honors the value of this ideal in providing a social and political environment where people can flourish and explore the potential of their God-created, human ability. As heirs of a noble Hellenic heritage that has cherished freedom and as the children of our Greek forbearers who sacrificed for independence, we know the value of freedom. We know that freedom is inseparably connected to the love of our fellow human beings and our love of God. We affirm that we have been called to freedom so that through love we can be servants of one another (Galatians 5:13); and because for freedom Christ has set us free (Galatians 5:1), we are called to use this freedom, as you the AHEPA family do so admirably, so that others may experience this love.

“Within a few years both our Holy Archdiocese and the AHEPA family will celebrate centennial anniversaries in this nation of freedom and hope. These anniversary events are certainly times of remembrance. We will reflect on a century of faith and service. We will mark great accomplishments; honor the memory of so many who offered so much, and give thanks to God for His many blessings.  But we will also affirm that all that has been achieved has been through His love and the love we share. We will recognize that we are the benefactors of a legacy of love that has impacted innumerable lives.

“As we prepare for these commemorations, we share great joy in knowing that the Holy Archdiocese of America and the AHEPA family have worked together and shared this legacy. Over the past century, the members of AHEPA have supported the sacred ministry of the Church through the establishment and growth of our parishes, through the support and leadership offered in our national programs and initiatives, and through the unwavering support for our beloved Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The Church has continued to recognize in love and gratitude the vital work of AHEPA in education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, and in so many other areas of service, as well as in advancing Hellenic ideals which inspire and enliven our common humanity and enhance our witness of our Orthodox faith. My hope and prayer is that this relationship will not only continue in the love that we share and that it will bear much fruit, but that it will also become even stronger as we prepare and commit for the work that is before us. Together, we can and will accomplish tremendous things that will reveal our love for God and our love for each other. Through our shared efforts in ministry and service, many more will experience God’s transforming love. Together, we will honor the legacy of love that has been given to us by our forbearers, and we will bring honor and glory to God for the great and marvelous works that we will see.

May His blessings be upon you and the vital work and service of AHEPA and the AHEPA family.”

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WASHINGTON, DC – Andy Manatos was honored with the Venizelon Award at the national convention of the Pancretan Association of America on July 2 in Springfield, Massachusetts.

The Venizelon Award “is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary values, outstanding achievements and valuable contributions in the fields of government, politics, diplomacy or civil service and who through his/her words and deeds, is considered a friend of Greece and its people.”

Previous recipients of this award have included: former Prime Minister of Greece Constantine Mitsotakis, former President of Greece Karolos Papoulias, former Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyiannis, and former Governor of Massachusetts and nominee for President of the United States Michael Dukakis.

Previous awards Manatos has received include:

Lifetime Achievement Award at the Greek America Foundation’s Gabby Awards at Carnegie Hall in New York City (2017),

Lifetime Achievement Award by the Alpha Omega Council in Boston, MA (2016),

Outstanding Public Advocacy Award from the American Hellenic Educational and Progressive Association (AHEPA) (2013),

Service Award from The Smile of the Child Foundation in Athens, Greece (2013),

Medal of Saint Paul, the highest recognition of the Greek Orthodox Church of America (2008),

Ellis Island Medal of Honor from the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (1999), and the Battle of Crete Award from the Pancretan Association of America (1991).

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CHICAGO – The delegates of the Supreme Convention of the Daughters of Penelope (DOP) elected Celia Kachmarski, Grand President for the 2019-2020 administrative year. Elections were held July 5, at the 97th Annual AHEPA Supreme Convention, Chicago.

Grand President Celia Kachmarski, a 51-year Member of the Order, is a Calgary native and the first Canadian elected to lead the organization.

Membership: Initiated into Telemachus Chapter #69, Saskatoon, Sask. Transferred to Erato Chapter #295, Calgary, Alberta

Chapter Offices: Chapter President, 3 years Chapter VP, 3 years

Chapter Secretary, 10 years Chapter Marshall, 3 year

Committees Chaired: Entertainment, Convention, AHEPA Ball, Education, Bazaar, Chapter 50th Anniversary Celebration, and Penelope of the Year

District Offices:

District Governor, 4 years
Lt. Governor, 2 years
District Secretary-Treasurer, 10 years District Marshall, 2 year
District Advisor, Maids of Athena, 3 years District Advisor to the DOP, 4 years

Convention Offices: Convention Chairman 12 years, Vice-Chairman, Secretary

Committees Chaired: Scholarship, Budget, Penelope of the Year, Maids of Athena, and Legislation

Grand Lodge:

Grand Vice-President Canada 1984-88, 1993-94 Grand Governor Zone V 2016-17
Grand Secretary 2017-18
Grand Vice President 2018-19

Maids of Athena Advisory Board, 5 years

Supreme Convention: Convention Secretary 2014 Convention Vice-Chair 2015

Convention Chairman 2016 National Penelope of the Year 2016

Committees: Chairman of Canadian Affairs, Grievance, Penelope of the Year and Projects (2 years), Member of Legislation, Budget and Finance, Maids of Athena, Credentials, and Scholarship

DOP Foundation Inc. President (4 years) and Secretary (5 years)

AHEPA Family Charitable Foundation of Canada Secretary (13 years)

Other: Folk Arts Council
Puppets for Peace Board of Directors
Elections Committee, Hellenic Community of Calgary

Family: Married to Ron Kachmarski
One son, Sean, married and living in England with his family

2019-2020 Daughters of Penelope Grand Lodge

In addition to Grand President Kachmarski, the following individuals were elected to the Daughters of Penelope Grand Lodge:

Grand Vice President Kathy Bizoukas of Munster, IN;
Grand Secretary Georgette Boulegeris of Bedminster, NJ;
Grand Treasurer Marianthi Treppiedi of Spokane, WA;
Grand Governor Zone I Kathy Matrakas of Silver Spring, MD;

Grand Governor Zone II Charrie Regopoulos of Springsboro, OH;

Grand Governor Zone III Gretchen Holtsinger of Houston, TX ;

Grand Governor Zone IV Beverly Rose Kennedy of Modesto, CA;

Grand Governor Zone V Margaret Dritsas of Ottawa, Canada;

and Grand Advisor to the Maids of Athena Kathy Leles of Tracy, CA.

Congratulations also to AHEPA Supreme President George Horiates, Sons of Pericles Supreme President Paul Pavlakos, and Maids of Athena Grand President Theodora Ronstadt.

AHEPA Family Supreme Convention 2020

The 2020 Supreme Convention will convene the week of July 20 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Hotel in Orlando, FL.

Founded in San Francisco in 1929, the Daughters of Penelope is the first women’s organization of its kind established in the United States. It is an affiliate organization of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA).

The mission of the DOP is to promote the ancient Greek ideals of Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence.

For more information about the DOP, or any of its programs or projects, please visit www.daughtersofpenelope.org.

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LOS ANGELES – Greek-American TV personality Maria Menounos and members of her family appeared on Celebrity Family Feud on July 14. Celebrity Family Feud is a spin-off of the American game show Family Feud. The episodes feature teams of celebrities playing for charity.

Menounos’ team consisted of her husband Keven Undergaro, and three cousins, Nikki Daigel, Toula Menounos, and Peter Menounos. Maria’s father, Constantinos Menounos, was also present, but did not play. The family, wearing shirts that said “#BeattheGreeks, played for The Brain Trust.

Menounos and her family played against The Real co-host Jeannie Mai. Mai’s team consists of her mother Olivia and brothers Dennis and Daniel Mai, as well as her uncle Ted Pham. They played for Girls Inc.

Celebrity Family Feud is hosted by the popular stand-up comedian, actor, author and Emmy Award-winner Steve Harvey. The show returns for its fifth season this summer, as part of ABC’s expanded Summer Fun & Games.

The first round went to the Mai family, while the second and third round to the Menounos family for the win and a chance at the final, Fast Money round. Cousin Nikki went first and earned 154 points out of the needed 200 and Maria Menounos followed reaching 213 points with her answers, winning $25,000 for their charity, The Brain Trust.

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HAMPTONS, NY – The Kimisis tis Theotokou (Dormition of the Virgin Mary) Greek Festival once again brought a taste of Greece to the Hamptons. The four-day festival took place July 11-14 under perfect summer weather conditions which brought in attendees form near and far to enjoy the traditional food, music, and dancing.

The church grounds were bustling with people lining up for the classic Greek food and sweets, shopping from the vendors, music and various activities, the parish again succeeded in giving “Greek color” to the everyday life of the area. Greek and non-Greek vacationers had a delightful time.

The parish dance groups from the youngest children to the older ages performed the well-known Greek dances highlighting the cultural tradition of Greece.

“Thursday and Friday were really the most successful. Many Greeks and non-Greeks attended, including celebrities as many of our friends who are not Greek always make time to visit us. Trying our food and watching the Festival, they exclaim ‘how nice are the Greeks!’ For us, this is the most significant,” said the presiding priest of the community, Fr. Alexander Karloutos, in an interview with The National Herald.

According to Fr. Karloutsos, the president of the American Holocaust Museum, Howard M. Lorber, from the Greek-Jewish community of Thessaloniki, said that the Hampton Festival awakens “beautiful memories.”

“Howard Lorber is, among other things, a close friend of President Donald Trump. When he tasted our food, he turned to me and said that it reminded him of the genuine Greek food made by his grandmother from Thessaloniki. He tried moussaka, but also lamb on the spit and I liked both very much,” said Fr. Karloutsos.

Among those who attended this year’s Dormition of the Virgin Mary Hamptons Festival, were many well-known personalities of the Greek community such as John Catsimatidis and Mike Angeliadis.

“We are pioneers in the American community”

The Dormition of the Virgin Mary in the Hamptons organizes events throughout the year, but during the summer it has its two most important: The Festival, organized in July, and the Blue Dream Gala, which takes place in August every year. This year’s Blue Dream Gala is scheduled for August 24.

This is a fundraiser that does not address the “narrow circle” of the Greek community but is open to the wider American society, offering substantial financial assistance for important social causes.

This year, the money will be earmarked for the needs of erecting newer, more modern, facilities at Southampton Hospital, which serves the area. As noted in TNH, Fr. Karloutsos is a member of the donation committee, along with others including former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and American investor John Paulson.

“I like to see that our Church serves the American community around us. We are Greeks and we must be leaders, not just followers. Everyone now recognizes the central role of the Greek community in the Hamptons. It is an opportunity to promote our Greek heritage and remind us that as Greeks we are philanthropists and benefactors and we can serve the American community,” said Fr. Karloutsos.

Finally, Fr. Karloutsos praised the members of the Dormition community for their efforts and their significant financial contribution, both for the Festival and for the rest of the parish’s activities and contributions to society.

“We have a Greek school, programs for the elderly, but also efforts such as Love Michael, where autistic people are involved, and have the opportunity to learn cooking. From this activity, they are rewarded financially and feel they have a quality of life,” concluded Fr. Karloutsos.

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CONSTANTINOPLE – His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew in a statement on the extreme weather phenomena, which left seven people dead and many injured, in Halkidiki and northern Greece said that “the extreme weather phenomena remind us the reaction of nature as a result of the disrespectful human interference in it.”

He stressed that the Ecumenical Patriarchate had been fighting for the protection of the natural environment for decades because the consequences of its devastation affect the whole planet, adding that he is thinking about the families of the victims of the storms and that he is with them in spirit and prayer, and urged all to pray for the repose of the souls of the victims and recovery of the injured.”

The statement of the Ecumenical Patriarch has as follows:

“It was a shocking moment for the inhabitants of Halkidiki and northern Greece, and the Mother Church of Constantinople is spiritually and prayerfully close to the families of the victims and the injured. The Mother Church asks the Creator to heal their wounds and to protect this region and Greece from any danger and threat.

Extreme weather phenomena remind us not only of the power of nature, but also of its reaction as a result of the disrespectful human interference in it. The Ecumenical Patriarchate, for decades, has been struggling to protect the natural environment, which is our common house, and we must not destroy it, because the consequences affect not only the place where the natural ecosystem is destroyed but the whole planet.

“We call upon all people of good will to take action, in preserving the Creation and we urge everyone to pray for the repose of the souls of the victims and the recovery of the injured and to support, by all available means, our fellow humans who had countless repercussions and serious material damage.”

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LOWELL – Vasilios Tasiopoulos, 87, passed away Monday July 8 at the Wingate at Belvidere with his family by his side.

Vasilios was born on July 15, 1931 in Rodia, Greece a son of the late Evangelos and Maria (Klissaris) Tasiopoulos. He was the loving husband of fifty four years to the late Chrisanthe (Bandis) Tasiopoulos whom he lost on September 12, 2012.

Vasilios, after marrying his wife Chrisanthe, came to the United States in 1958 settling in the Acre section of Lowell. He first worked as a cobbler after arriving and later went to work for the Raytheon corporation for many years up until his retirement.

He was a member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Lowell and a member of the Pan Macedonian Society. Vasilios was most happy spending time with his family and enjoyed his many visits to his village in Greece.

Vasilios is survived by his daughter, Athena Tasiopoulos, two sons, Harry Tasiopoulos and his wife Erin, and Evan Tasiopoulos, a brother, Christos Tasiopoulos and his wife Despina, his four grandchildren, Alexander and Christian Tasiopoulos, James Tasiopoulos and Stephanie Nicholls and her husband Jonathan, and several nieces, nephews here and in Greece.

Relatives and friends gathered at the HOLY TRINITY GREEK. His Funeral Service was held on July 10 at Holy Trinity. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Manolis Family Foundation, Inc. 1067 Lakeview Avenue, Dracut, MA 01826.  For condolences or obituary, please go to www.laurinfuneralhome.com

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SAN FRANCISCO – The Metropolis of San Francisco will welcome Archbishop Elpidophoros in early September. The text of its news release follows:

“His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America will bless us with his visit to the Young Adult League Conference being held in Long Beach, California over Labor Day Weekend 2019. The event is organized by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco.

“Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco stated that ‘It is a great honor to have His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America attend and share his vision at the Metropolis of San Francisco Young Adult League Conference. These attendees are the emerging leaders of our Archdiocese and it will be a wonderful opportunity for them to receive the blessing of Archbishop Elpidophoros, who will also bring greetings from our Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate. This event will provide a weekend of fellowship, friendship, faith, and service, and with young adults from 22 states representing our Archdiocese so far, I am confident this weekend will be historic on many levels for the Church.’

“There is still time for young adults ages 18-35 to register for this event. Registration, hotel and workshop details are available on the conference website. Events include a presentation from Emmy Award winning actor Jonathan Jackson, inspirational workshops, daily worship, a community service project, beach party, Grand Banquet, and dinner aboard the Queen Mary.”

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NAPERVILLE, IL – In an environment characterized by slow growth but a low probability of near-term recession, the case remains strong for U.S. growth companies, according to Greek-American businessman and philanthropist John P. Calamos, Sr., founder, chairman and chief investment officer of Calamos Investments, in the firm’s July Economic Outlook.

Economic conditions outside the U.S., according to Calamos, have been more tepid, as trade issues between the U.S. and China have had a negative effect on global business.

“Reflecting our outlook that volatility will rise as the economy continues through its cycle, we believe investors will be served by strategies that provide risk-managed equity exposure, such as convertible securities,” said Calamos.

The full July Calamos Economic Outlook can be found at https://www.calamos.com/globalassets/media/documents/market-insights/2019/07/outlkcom_july_2019.pdf.

John P. Calamos, Sr. founded Calamos Investments in 1977. With origins as an institutional convertible bond manager, the firm has grown into a global asset management firm with major institutional and individual clients around the world. With 49 years of investment industry experience, Mr. Calamos has established research and investment processes centered around a team-based approach designed to deliver superior risk-adjusted performance over full market cycles. He is Chairman of the Calamos Investment Committee, which is charged with providing a top-down framework, maintaining oversight of risk and performance metrics, and evaluating investment process. Mr. Calamos is often quoted as an authority on risk-managed investment strategies, markets and the economy, and has authored two books on convertible securities. He is a frequent speaker at investment seminars and conferences around the world and appears regularly on leading news networks. He holds a BA in Economics and MBA in Finance, both from the Illinois Institute of Technology. After college graduation, he joined the United States Air Force where he served as a combat pilot during the Vietnam War and ultimately earned the rank of Major.

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