BOSTON.- The 22nd annual parade of Boston for the Independence of Greece was canceled due to weather conditions early on the morning of April 4, including snow, cold and wind.

Snow high winds and low temperatures forced the organizers the Federation of the Hellenic American Societies of New England to cancel the parade in consultation with the City and Police Authorities
Bill Kafkas chairman of the Public Relations Committee of the Federation told TNH that “it was a painful decision to cancel the parade after all the preparations and efforts, but it had to be done for safety reasons because of strong winds in Boston and the cold temperatures.”
On Sunday morning a doxology was offered at the Annunciation Cathedral of Boston for the Independence of Greece
On Saturday evening at the annual gala dinner in Newton Marriot the Federation honored with the “Freedom Award” Dr. Maria Koulmanda prominent researcher and professor at Harvard.

ASTORIA – The youth of Greek America was seen in abundance at the convention of the International Hellenic Society (IHS) in Astoria.
Established in 1983 as a New York-based organization, IHS has become a global not-for-profit entity, thanks to the efforts of its leaders: President Constantine Gurlakis, Vice President Margarita Skourlis, and Executive Board Member Annoula Dritsas.
With a passion for the Greek- and Cypriot-American communities, these three have created three scholarships – two for current undergraduate and graduate students for tuition, and one for alumni seeking to repay education loans. Other notable Board Members include: Gary Ahladianakis, Chariclia Amanatidis, Basil Boziotis, Paraskevi Lilikas-Mamounas, George Moukas, Maria Nathenas, Jimmy Panagiotou, and Thanasis Petridis.

IHS’ recent Alumni Chapter provides an opportunity for mentoring a new generation of students, and the opportunity for the latter secure jobs and internships.

The April 8-10 Convention began with a Greek Night at Central Next Door, followed by the IHS Dinner at SVL Bar.

IHS members marched in the Greek Parade on Fifth Avenue on the 10th.

The next major event is a scholarship dinner in the fall. Details to follow.

There was a Parade afterparty at Central Lounge.

IHS accepts donations and seeks more volunteers. More information is available at intercollegiatehellenicsociety@gmail.com.

ATHENS – A delegation of the Order of AHEPA led by Supreme President John Galanis and including Daughters of Penelope Grand President Connie Pilallis, Supreme Vice President Andrew Zachariades, Executive Director Basil Mossaides, as well as several governors of Greek AHEPA chapters, was in Athens on May 12 for the occasion of a presentation of the book 1900 at the Grand Ceremonies Hall of the Hellenic Armed Officer’s Club, an event organized by AHEPA Hellas.
Written by Panagiotis Tripontikas and Stefanos Milesis, 1900 is a naval and historical story that brings to light the efforts of a generation of Navy men attempting to carry out a voyage in the year 1900: the crossing of the Atlantic Ocean aboard the “Navarchos Miaoulis,” a Hellenic Navy ship unsuitable for transoceanic missions.

It was an educational mission, led by Pavlos Kountouriotis, who commanded 215 sailors on board. Running on sails and charcoal, the ship sailed into the ports of New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, with thousands of enthusiastic Greek-Americans waving Greek flags in support. The success of the transatlantic voyage and enthusiastic reception boosted the morale of the Greeks, who had suffered a defeat in the 1897 Greco-Turkish War.
At the time, most Greeks who had settled in the United States had emigrated from Turkey, and the sight of a ship bearing the Greek flag filled them with particular pride.

It is not a captain’s journal, the authors say, but rather an adventurous, touching portrayal of a journey which glorified the Hellenic Navy on both sides of the Atlantic.

The book was presented to an audience of several Parliament Members, dozens of officers of the Hellenic Navy and other branches of the military and mayors of the areas of Greece from which the 215 sailors hailed.
AHEPA Hellas Governor Giorgos Plokamakis, along with members of the U.S. delegation, spoke about the book, which depicts the Miaoulis’ voyage as representing a nation searching for the moral strength to stand on its own feet, to be uplifted.

And Kountouriotis managed to achieve just that, against all odds. He was congratulated by American officers and in Greece, and a few years later, Prime Minister Eleftherios Venizelos appointed him Fleet Captain, achieving more glorious victorious as such.

When the Miaoulis arrived in New York, it was greeted by President William McKinley and New York City Mayor Robert Van Wyck. The Greek newspaper Atlantis printed regular updates about the ship’s voyage in the States.

Governor Plokamakis honored Supreme President Galanis and Grand President Pilallis they, in turn, honoured two descendants of those sailors and 91-year-old Thanasis Savvakis, engineer of the Greek destroyer “Adrias,” and a granddaughter of Macedonian Fighter Pavlos Melas.

NEW YORK. The Hellenic American Bankers Association (HABA), honoured Dr. Maria Vassalou, Partner and Portfolio Manager at Perella Weinberg Partners, as its 2016 Executive of the Year on Wednesday June 8th at the Union League Club on Park Avenue.

The event coincided with the historic occasion of the designation of Hillary Clinton as the first female presidential nominee for the Democratic Party.  It was also the first time HABA honored a woman in its 34 years of action.

In attendance at the award presentation, besides HABA President Demetri Papacostas, were former HABA president Costas Kellas, John Catsimatidis and James Orphanides, HABA Vice President Fanny Trataros, as well as the 2015 Executive of the Year honoree Michael Tadross.

Dr. Vassalou’s speech was very moving, as she spoke in depth about her family’s flight from Constantinople in 1964, and their relocation to Athens, where her father to the best of his efforts succeeded in inspiring his children by way of his example, passing on to them the determination and passion in whatever they do, and resilience.

In an exclusive interview for The National Herald, Dr. Vassalou expressed her emotions on being honored as Executive of the Year. «I am grateful,” she stated, “to the Bankers Association as well as to everyone who honored me with their presence.” In response to our comment that her reference to the living example of her father is an important lesson for the younger generation, members of which were present at the ceremony, Dr. Vassalou stated, “We the Greeks have great strength within us and we have been through a lot as a country and as a nation, and we have always managed to overcome the hardships, and now the country is once again going through a difficult period and we must draw examples from history and from the teachings of our fathers and grandfathers in order to overcome the difficulties and to build a better future for the children of Greece.”

The Greek community of Utah celebrated the construction of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, the first Greek Orthodox church in the state, built 111 years ago at 439 W. 400 South in Salt Lake City. A $7,000 loan for the construction was secured by the community, and the church was dedicated on October 29, 1905, according to the late Constantine Skedros author of a history of the Greek Orthodox community in the Salt Lake Valley.

NEW YORK. The Alexander the Great Awards ceremony was a moving event which spread the message of the importance of maintaining the Greek language and cultural heritage, as well as philanthropy and the attraction of the younger generation. The recipients of the Award were Dr. Spiro Spireas, founder, chairman and CEO of Sigmapharm Laboratories, an emerging specialty pharmaceutical company operating out of Bensalem, PA, the President of Pan Gregorian Enterprises of New Jersey George Siamboulis, and philhellene President of the New Jersey Senate Senator Stephen Sweeney.

The award ceremony took place on Sunday during the 6^th Annual Awards Banquet of the Hellenic Federation of New Jersey at “The Graycliff” which is located at 122 Moonachie Ave, Moonachie, NJ.

Next Generation Initiative Advisory Board chairman Nikitas Tampakis mentioned the efforts on behalf of the Federation in order to approach the younger generation, and he pointed out that there are seven student unions active in the Federation which marched together united in the Greek Independence Day parade. He also noted that this year, for the first time, scholarships amounting to ten thousand dollars were awarded to Maria Xarhakis, Maria-Eleni Nikolaidou, Ilias Pappas and Andreas Savvas.

Head of the organizational committee Panos Stavrianidis referred to the visions of the founders of the Federation and stressed that they have achieved a great many things in seven years and that each year the presence of the organized Greek-American community of New Jersey is strengthened at the Fifth Avenue parade.

Consul General to Greece Konstantinos Koutras called upon the expatriates to observe a minute of silence for the victims of the Orlando Florida massacre. He then referred to the role of the Federation and the Greek-American community and noted that it is obligated to honor its roots and to promote the Greek language and religion which are the main components of the Greek character.

In reference to the honorees, he noted that two are businessmen and philanthropists who are gracious and humble and that they have undertaken significant initiatives for the Greek American community in America.

“The new generation should look up to these men as their role models,” Dr. Koutras stated while simultaneously congratulating President of the New Jersey Senate Senator Stephen Sweeney.

Philhellene U.S. Representative Frank Pallone was called to present Senator Sweeney’s difficult job and he stressed that he works hard to bridge the differences.

He also mentioned the contacts they had made the previous week in Washington DC on national issues and their meeting with Secretary of State John Kerry.

President of the Hellenic Federation of New Jersey Savas Tsivicos expressed his satisfaction on the banquet attendance as well as gratitude for the sponsors of the event and noted that the proceeds will be contributed to the fund for the building purchase, to the Scholarship Fund, to the Metropolis camps, as well as the rebuilding of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in New York City.

Pan Gregorian president George Siamboulis noted that it has been seven years since the establishment of the Federation and that everyone struggles together to keep the flame of Hellenism and Orthodoxy burning.

Furthermore, he referred to the Pan Gregorian and stressed that the founding and success of the Pan Gregorian proves that “Greeks flourish when they are united.”

Senator Sweeney spoke about his relationship with the Greek-American community and his recent visit to the Metropolis of New Jersey, and pointed out that the community has offered so much to the state of New Jersey. In addition, he expressed his gratitude for the Alexander the Great Award and noted that it decorates his office.

Federation president Savas Tsivicos noted that they were honoured by the presence of the publisher-editor of the National Herald Antonis H. Diamataris and invited him to present the award to Dr. Spiros Spireas.

In reference to the National Herald, he pointed out that it is the only and largest Greek newspaper outside of Greece, and that it recently celebrated the 101^st anniversary of its founding.

Dr. Spireas thanked the representatives of the Trenton community, the executives of Sigmapharm Laboratories as well as his wife, Dr. Amalia Spireas and his childen Sotiri and Mary, who shared his anxieties and sleepless nights when he took his first steps in creating his pharmaceutical company.

He also stressed that it is not only important to succeed, but also to share with the community and to support Greek education and the Church.

He spoke in awe of his late parents and pointed out the obligation of the expatriate community to honor the first generation of Greek immigrants who endured hardships and paved the way for the next generations to succeed.

He called upon the Greek-American community to continue their struggle for the language, the religion, the “filotimo” and all the elements which compose the Greek identity and that we must try to pass it on to the younger generations

Metropolitan Evangelos responded to Dr. Spireas’ appeal and pointed out the significance of passing on language, faith and cultural heritage. Addressing the younger generation, he stressed that instead of saying that they are of Greek descent, they should say that they are Greeks, second, third and fourth generation.

In regards to the awards, he mentioned that they are dedicated to Alexander the Great and reminded everyone of the obligation to fight for Macedonia to remain Greek.

Lastly, he called upon the Greek-Americans to request that the US government withdraw the recognition of FYROM with its constitutional name.

By Anthe Mitrakos
CHICAGO, IL – The PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation (PHSF) awarded a total of 44 scholars during its annual gala held this year at the Ritz Carlton June 18, raising over $500,000 for the non-profit.

Attended by some 500 supporters, the sold out event paid tribute to the PHSF’s late founder, Chris P. Tomaras, who passed away last October just shy of his 78^th birthday.

An impressive total of $267,500 merit and need-based scholarships were awarded that night to some of the most exceptional Greek-American undergraduates in the nation.

Hosted by the energetic Mistress of Ceremonies and on-air personality Kiki Vale, the theme of the evening was “Preserving the Legacy” in memory of Tomaras and his continuous commitment to helping deserving students continue their studies, as well as backing numerous Hellenism-related activities and projects.

After PHSF Trustee and Secretary Athan Tom Sotos introduced a memorial film about the founder and his life, Executive Director Yanni Valsamas took the stage to reflect on the foundation’s future.

“The Foundation is alive and well and we will continue the success our founder achieved and excel in our mission to promote education and Hellenism in America,” he said.

Vaslsamas’ speech was then followed by remarks from Chairman of the Academic Committee Dr. Constantine Georgakis, who presented scholarship awards to each recipient in the company of Chairman of the Board of Directors Robert A. Buhler.

The 2016 Paradigm Award went to Calamos Investments Chief Executive Officer John S. Koudounis, who delivered an inspiring speech touching on his life, education and career as a Greek-American.

Following Koudounis was PHSF Chairman Buhler, who delivered a moving speech reflecting Tomaras’ wishes for the continuation of the foundation’s efforts. Even while in the hospital battling illness, Tomaras kept his focus on the future of the PHSF, Buhler noted.

“His hair was perfectly combed, his eyebrows perfectly combed, he was working on a legal tablet making some notes…after insisting on asking about my family, he began a very formal business meeting and got into great detail about his love and dreams for the foundation,” Buhler said.  “I was amazed watching a man with very limited time and severe medical conditions brilliantly conduct this important meeting. He then leaned forward and with a look of seriousness and care he said ‘I have no children of my own. The PanHellenic is my only child. You must take good care of her.’ Trying to compose myself, and in an attempt to lighten the mood I said ‘Chris, we will make sure she gets into a good college, and maybe she’ll even qualify for a scholarship,’” he said. “We then both laughed, and cried,” he added.

With mixed feelings, the crowd listened attentively to Tomaras’ aspirations and final words for the foundation and all involved.

“We are all here tonight helping to maintain Chris’ dream,” Buhler said, and briefly outlined how the organization plans to grow through alumni relations and co-branding partnerships.

“It’s a big statement to Chris that everyone is here tonight,” he said. “They knew it was a legacy event and they’re really honoring it.”

Dinner for the night was accompanied by entertainment from the Chris Sarlas Orchestra, a special presentation by 2016 Georgia S. Mitchell Music & Arts Scholarship recipient Thomas Dean Bravos, followed by very lively Greek dance music by guest performer John Panopoulos, which got the crowd off their seats.

A raffle that night awarded cash prizes of $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 to lucky recipients Ernest Stavropoulos, Soterios Frentzas and Georgia Litsos.

Esteemed gala attendees included His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos of Chicago, Consul General of Greece Polixeni Petropoulos, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, President of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago Mariyana T. Spyropoulos, Dean of the School of Humanities and Sciences at Stanford University Dr. Richard Saller, and former Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of C. Dean Metropoulos & Co, Dean Metropoulos.

“This is a great event for young Greek-Americans and one of the best events because it promotes education, our culture and our community,” said Joseph Adams, a medical student at Midwestern University.

Dedicated to promoting education and leadership, the PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that recognizes and honors exceptional undergraduate students of Hellenic descent, supporting their efforts with significant monetary awards based on academic merit and financial need.

More information is available at panhellenicscholarships.org.

The Greek Jews have a long history going back over 2,300 years to the time of Alexander the Great. They arrived in Ioannina, according to folk belief, when a group swam ashore escaping a Roman slave ship in the year 70. The Greek-speaking Romaniote Jewish community was well-established in Greece when the Jews of Spain, the Sephardim, were expelled in 1492, many moving to Greece to escape the Spanish Inquisition. Kehila Kedosha Janina on Broome Street on the Lower East Side is the last remaining Romaniote synagogue in the Western Hemisphere and was named after Ioannina where the Jewish community thrived for many years. The synagogue with its brick facade decorated with the Ten Commandments and stained glass with the Star of David is also a New York City landmark.

Greek Jews began immigrating to the US in the early 1900’s, like most immigrants, in search of a better life for their children and to escape the turmoil in the Balkans at the time. When the congregation was first founded in 1906, there were hundreds of synagogues on the Lower East Side for Ashkenazi Yiddish-speaking Jews and Sephardic Spanish-speaking Jews. The property at 280 Broome Street was purchased to establish a synagogue for the Romaniote Jews to preserve their unique culture and traditions, customs, liturgy, and language. The synagogue opened in 1927, and was dedicated by Rabbi David de Sola Pool, the esteemed leader of Congregation Shearith Israel, the Spanish and Portuguese synagogue on Central Park West and the oldest Jewish congregation in the US.

Today, though the number of members of the congregation is not known exactly since there is no paid membership, the mailing list for Kehila Kedosha Janina includes 3,000 addresses in the US and 500 abroad. There are enough in attendance to hold services in Hebrew each week on every Shabbat and on the major Jewish holidays. The synagogue is open to the public on Sundays from 11am to 4pm and by appointment for tours. The Museum includes a library, an art gallery, the first Holocaust Memorial to Greek Jews in America, and extensive resources about the Romaniote experience. The restored lower level includes the Dr. Ada Finifter Communal Room and Education Center modeled after a traditional Greek cafe.

Marcia Haddad Ikonomopoulos has served as the Museum Director of Kehila Kedosha Janina since 2004 and is on the Board of Trustees of the Synagogue and Museum. She hosts a kosher Greek lunch, tours of the synagogue, and annual trips to Greece for those interested in visiting the places where the Jewish community once thrived, but as she noted in an interview, 87% of Greek Jews perished in the Holocaust. Of those who survived, many emigrated to Israel or the US. Only about 50 returned to Ioannina. The community continues to this day with a generous contribution from Kehila Kedosha Janina, Ikonomopoulos told the Wall Street Journal. The profits from their trips to Greece are also used to help Greek Jews, especially in those communities devastated by the Holocaust.

The incredible resources available at Kehila Kedosha Janina are helping many reconnect with their family history and providing valuable information for anyone interested in Greece and Greek history though the experience of the Romaniote community. As noted on the Kehila Kedosha Janina website, the Jews of Greece constitute the longest continuous Jewish presence in the European Diaspora. Archeologists have unearthed early synagogues and Jewish artifacts in the ancient Agora of Athens, in Thessaloniki, Delos, Crete, Rhodes, and Thessaly. Many descendants are interested in traveling to Greece to learn more about their family history and the place their ancestors called home for more than two millennia.

Current exhibitions at the museum include Memories which features rare photographs, traditional garments, and religious articles the immigrants brought with them to America along with their memories of the Old World. The synagogue’s Torah Arc, the cabinet where the Torah scrolls are kept, includes a Torah written in Romaniote script. As Ikonomopoulos told the Wall Street Journal, “There are only three in the world. It’s in the traditional Romaniote style of writing. Elongations tell when to pau

NORWICH, CT – The Rose of New England Chapter 110, Order of AHEPA of Norwich, celebrating its 90^th anniversary, held its Annual Awards Banquet on June 28 at the Pappas Community Center at AHEPA 110 Apartments. Seventy-five Ahepans and guests attended the banquet to witness the awarding of cash grants to area nonprofit organizations.  The Norwich chapter presented $6,500 in grants to the following organizations:  Norwich Free Academy Greek Studies Program, Three Rivers Community College, Backus Hospital Outreach Program, Betasaida/Katie Blair House, Otis Library, ARC of New London County, AHEPA Yankee News, Paideia Society at the University of Connecticut, Martin House, the Three Tenants Associations of AHEPA Apartments and The Center for Hospice Care of Norwich.

Norwich also installed it’s new officers for the year as follows: President – Peter Argiros; Vice-President – George Grossomanides; Treasurer – Dr. John Grossomanides;  and Secretary – Peter Patsouris.

The Chapter has created a compendium edition commemorating its 90-year history. The AHEPA History Book Committee is comprised of John Louziotis, George Maistrelis,  Peter J. Hominski, Peter Pappas, CPA, Ernest Pool, Cleon George and Tony Petros.

The Committee asks that each Chapter member purchase one spread the word to friends and relatives. There are 500 books to sell.

The Norwich AHEPA will donate all the proceeds from the book sales to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church of Norwich.

BOSTON— The AHEPA 94th Supreme Convention is successfully underway at the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV until Saturday, July 30. About 1,500 Greek-Americans, including the Sons of Pericles, Daughters of Penelope, and Maids of Athena, will participate in the meetings and festivities.
In a telephone interview with the outgoing Supreme President John Galanis from the Convention in las Vegas, he said that “everything goes well here, the turnout is good and we are having a very good and productive Convention.”
Galanis told TNH that he is not going to seek reelection for a second term and said that Andreas Zachariadis will succeed him in the Presidency.
Galanis will inform the participants at the Convention “about the activities of this past year, the Cyprus issue, and the visit to Greece, Cyprus, the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople, and Israel.”
He emphasized the importance and the appreciation that AHEPA enjoys everywhere within the United States and abroad. He said that “in my trips within the United States, Canada, Greece, Cyprus people speak with great appreciation and love for AHEPA. I have to tell you that they are treating me very well not because it is me, but because of the excellent work my predecessors and AHEPA have done.”
Galanis noted, “One of the important issues is to fulfill our promise of collecting $1million for the construction of St. Nicholas Church in New York,” and he added “we should be there in a big way.”
He also said that “AHEPA is doing very well. We are going to initiate one hundred new members in New York at the Manhattan chapter. We are speaking about the young generation, young professionals. The same thing will happen in Chicago also.” He continued, “People have the desire to get involved in the Greek issues.” He observed, that “the New England area is strong, also Texas, Florida, the South, but the Midwest needs some strengthening. AHEPA mirrors in a way the Greek Community.”
Speaking about Greece and AHEPA, Galanis said “In Greece, and generally in Europe, there is a thirst and interest about our Organization, we have fifty chapters in Greece. I was attending a book signing ceremony in Greece and people from Peloponnese approached me, asking me how we can also organize an AHEPA chapter in Peloponnese.”
Asked about the right to vote in Greece by the Hellenes of the Diaspora that was discussed with State officials during his visit to Greece in May, Galanis said that “we met with the president of the Greek Parliament who told me the issue was in discussion (at that time) but there were some issues as to how and where the vote would be done. I also remember that Prime Minister Tsipras mentioned that the issue was important. My message to them was do it because it is going to be good for Greece.” When we told Galanis that it was not included in the law that was passed last week he said, “From what I understand, they postponed it because there are some issues that have to be dealt with.”

LAS VEGAS, NV – The delegates of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), the leading association for the nation’s American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, elected Andrew C. Zachariades of Brick, NJ as their supreme president at the 94th Annual Supreme Convention in Las Vegas, NV.

Zachariades ran unopposed in elections that were held July 28. The formal installation ceremonies were held on July 29.

“It is an honor and privilege to be elected supreme president,” Zachariades said. “I’m sincerely grateful to the convention delegates who placed their support and trust in me to lead this vibrant, venerable, and unique organization.”

He added, “This is a critical year on many fronts. Elections in the United States will provide us with an opportunity to work with a new administration and Congress in 2017. Greece continues to deal with a gripping economic crisis amid an unprecedented migratory crisis; and in Cyprus, challenging issues such as property, territory and security need to be addressed as settlement talks proceed. In addition, the need for community service around the world is ceaseless and the promotion of Hellenic ideals and our Hellenic heritage will always be priorities for AHEPA. I am excited to work with our seasoned Supreme Lodge and our membership to address these challenges and keep AHEPA on the steady path set forth by my predecessors in a spirit true to our mission.”

Zachariades is a 25-year member of Hudson Chapter 108, Jersey City, NJ. He has served AHEPA in numerous leadership positions including most recently as supreme vice president. Among his responsibilities as supreme president, Zachariades is also the chief executive officer and principal spokesperson of the entire AHEPA domain, which includes the United States, Canada, and chapters in Europe.

In addition to his responsibilities, the supreme president has dedicated himself to the Fifth District AHEPA Cancer Research Foundation, which has raised nearly $1.5 million for cancer research. During his eight-year chairmanship of the foundation, grants were provided to several industry leading organizations such as: Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Weill Medical College Cornell University, and Fox Chase Cancer Center. In 2008, Zachariades was awarded the District Five Ahepan of the Year.

Zachariades is an executive-level financial accountant for most of his career where he has overseen complex transactions and billions of dollars in real estate development. For the past 15 years, he has served as the CFO and Controller of FBE Limited LLC, a privately held investment firm located on Wall Street in New York City. He is a graduate of Rutgers University where he earned a degree in Managerial Accounting. He also earned an advanced degree in Financial Accounting from the New York Institute of Finance. Zachariades has distinguished himself in his field and is an esteemed member of the Hellenic American Bankers Association. Always looking to give back, Andrew is a frequent lecturer at the Graduate School of Business at William Paterson University, which is part of the New Jersey State University system.

Zachariades and his wife, Antoinette, are members of Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church, Jersey City, NJ, and have three children. Andrew also currently serves as vice president of the Cyprus Children’s Fund, which was founded in 1974 to support the educational pursuits of eager, hard-working and dedicated students after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. To honor his many accomplishments, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese awarded Zachariades with the Medal of the Order of Saint Paul in 2000.

Election of AHEPA Leadership for 2016-2017.

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

The 2016-17 Supreme Lodge is comprised of: Canadian President Bill Bakalis, Kitchener, Ontario; Supreme Vice President George E. Loucas, Esq., Cleveland, OH; Supreme Secretary Carl R. Hollister, Mason, OH; Supreme Treasurer James Kokotas, Brooklyn; Supreme Counselor George G. Horiates, Esq., Moorestown, NJ; Supreme Athletic Director Louis G. Atsaves, Lake Forest, IL; and Sons of Pericles National Advisor Sandy Papadopoulos, Atlanta, GA.

The eight Supreme Governors are:  Region I: Gus Paras; Region II: Anthony Drakos; Region III: Chris Diamantoukis; Region IV: Jack Isaac; Region V: George L. Kalantzis; Region VI: Donald Vanover: Timothy Joannides; Region VIII: George Booras; and Region X: Nicholas C. Papadopoulos.

Elected to positions on the Board of Trustees were: Cos Marandos, who was re-elected, and Elias Tskerides. Craig Clawson was re-elected to the Board of Auditors.

The organizations that comprise the AHEPA Family also held elections. Jan Spanos, Sacramento, CA, was elected Daughters of Penelope Grand President; Nikolas Apostolou, Wyckoff, NJ, was elected Sons of Pericles Supreme President; and Tria Charnas, North Royalton, OH, was elected Maids of Athena Grand President.

Friday’s Installation Ceremony of newly-elected officers officially concluded the 94th AHEPA Supreme Convention, which began Monday, July 25.

The 2017 Supreme Convention will convene July 24 to 30 at Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, FL.

LOS ANGELES, CA – At their annual dinner dance, the Cretans of Southern California (CSC) honored Alex Gus one of their longest serving members and paid tribute to the Arkadi Holocaust.

The event took place at St. Anthony’s church in Pasadena and featured a Cretan music group that was brought here directly from Crete, delicious Cretan food, skilled dancers, and lots of fun.

CSC President Thanasis Lantzourakis presented the historical tribute on the 150th anniversary of the Arkadi Holocaust. In 1866 after two hundred years of brutal Ottoman rule, the Christians of Crete decided to react and formed the Cretan revolutionary committee. The decision was to seek Unification with Greece and to stop recognizing the Turkish rule. The monastery of Arkadi in Rethymnon became the heart of the revolution and the Turkish ruler Ishmail Pasha sent a letter requesting that the revolutionary forces surrender upon his arrival. Their answer was similar to the one Leonida’s sent to the invading Persians, We Prefer War.

The battle was hugely uneven as of the 964 people inside the monastery only 325 were men trained to fight against fifteen thousand Ottomans with heavy artillery. Once the Turks got inside the monastery the Cretans decided to sacrifice themselves and inspire others. They blew up the gunpowder room and the explosion killed most of the Christians and at least 1,500 Turks died. Three years later, in 1869, a new rebellion broke out and this time Crete was liberated vindicating the Arkadi sacrifice.

CSC honored Gus for his almost 60 years of contributions. CSC was formed in October, 1950 and Gus joined in 1957. The idea of an association took shape during a social gathering at the Joe Metzidis’ family home. Metzidis and George Skandale were instrumental in the formation of the association and it has been active ever since. They joined the Pan Cretan Association in 1956. The chapter awarded its own scholarships in addition of participating in all of the philanthropic fundraisers of the PAA. Gus’ history with the organization is an interesting one since he is not born Cretan but he married into the Cretan family.
“I was injected with the Cretan culture. I was humbled by their warmth and inclusiveness and I consider them family,” Gus told TNH. They liked him so much that they had to change the bylaws so he could be able to serve on the board. Alex has served two terms as President and was the recording secretary for 11 years. Gus’ family left Greece in 1939 after Hitler had invaded Poland and came to America. “At age 12, I remember collecting money for the Greek Aid wearing proudly my foustanela,” he said. He was also part of the team that campaigned to bring the PAA National convention to California and finally hosting it for the first time in Anaheim in 1990. Chaired by George Skandale and Mike Stavros, it was proclaimed “as one of the best ever” and it is one of the highlights in the club’s history. New SCCA President Thanasis Lantzourakis and the new board that consists of George Zoumberakis Vice President, Corresponding Secretary Helen Skandale, Recording Secretary Bobby Zoumberakis, and Treasurer Mike Sapon have big ambitions for the new year. Lantzourakis who had served for many years in different capacities in the PAA told TNH that he and the new board want to increase membership by 25% by approaching young families who are of Cretan descend, and by adopting Nikos Kazantzakis’ belief, who said that “whoever sets foot on this island senses a mysterious force branching warmly through their veins, I believe once we approach them it will reignite the dormant spark in their hearts as many have passionate memories from visiting the island, a lot of them as exchange students.”

With involvement from Cretans Omonoia, Orange County “we want to establish Cretan dance groups from an early age to high school age students. Other goals are sponsorship of local and national programs that promote Cretan and Greek culture and to reestablish the local scholarship program.”
Now, the focus will be on the Christmas dinner that the chapter hosts with the Cretans Omonoia of Orange County, on December 11 at St. John in Anaheim, CA.

More information is available on the Facebook page Socalcretans.

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ASTORIA – The Chian Federation honored Michael Psaros with the 37th Annual Homeric Award for his dedication to philanthropy, Hellenism, and Orthodoxy. The award ceremony was held at the Hellenic Cultural Center of the Chian Federation in Astoria on Dec. 2. Psaros, an emerging leader of our Greek-American community, is a co-Founder and co-Managing Partner of KPS Capital Partners, LP, and a member of its Investment Committee. KPS is the manager of KPS Special Situations Funds, a family of private equity funds with approximately $5.6 billion of assets under management, focused on making controlling equity investments in companies across a diverse range of manufacturing industries. Psaros is a faithful Churchman, philanthropist, a true Hellene, and a proud American. The Chian Federation honored him with the Homeric Award because he is also a proud son of Chios. Psaros told The National Herald, “When I was called by the Chian Federation and asked to participate in this ceremony, at first I was hesitant because my grandmother Eugenia from Chios always told me to avoid glory. I like to think that I am a humble person, but as it was explained to me that the funds raised will go to worthy causes, I accepted this honor with great humility and with enthusiasm.” Psaros is the Treasurer of the Holy Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America. He is an Archon, and a founding member of FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism. Psaros serves on the Board of Trustees of The Leadership 100, and on his Parish Council. He has received numerous awards for his work in the Greek-American Community. Along with his wife Robin, he is a great supporter of US/Hellenic and Orthodox causes.

Among those attending the event were Master of Ceremonies journalist John Metaxas, Consul General of Greece in New York Konstantinos Koutras and his wife, Consul General of Cyprus in New York Vasilis Philippou and his wife, Chian Federation President John Kontolios, Chair of the 37th Homeric Award Nicholas Poulis, Co-Chair Markos Marinakis, Dr. Peter Michalos, President and CEO of American Network Solutions, LLC Philip Christopher, President of the Leadership 100 George Tsandikos, President of the Federation of Hellenic Societies Petros Galatoulas, New York State Senator Tony Avella, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Livanos, Father Robert Stephanopoulos, Publisher-Editor of the National Herald Antonis H. Diamataris and his wife Evangelia, and many proud Chians and fellow Greeks showing support for the efforts of the Chian Federation and honoree Psaros.

Archimandrite Nektarios Papazafiropoulos, Dean of Saint Demetrios Cathedral in Astoria gave the invocation and Constantina Tsouklidis sang the National Anthems of the US and Greece. Chair of the event Poulis welcomed all in attendance as did co-chair Marinakis. Senator Avella presented a proclamation from the State of New York to Psaros in honor of his achievements, noting that New York needs some of his help in terms of job creation.

Traditional dances were performed by the dance group of the Women’s Auxilairy of the Chian Federation. The dancers entered holding candles and singing a traditional folk song. They wore the traditional costume of Chios and impressed the guests with their skill.

President and CEO of American Network Solutions, LLC and director of the Cyprus-US Chamber of Commerce Philip Christopher spoke about his long association with the Chian Federation, and praised their efforts for Cyprus, noting that unfortunately since 1974, Cyprus is “still divided and still occupied.” He exhorted all those present to unite all the Greek and Cypriot organizations to “fight together for Cyprus and for Greece and Hellenism.”

Dr. Michalos delivered the keynote address, praising Psaros for his humanitarian efforts and noted Psaros’ many achievements and awards, highlighting his dedication to faith, family, and Hellenism. Psaros then noted how when asked who should introduce him at the award ceremony, Dr. Michalos was his choice, calling him “a brilliant doctor, a special person” and “a true Renaissance man.”

Psaros who spoke in English and a few words in Greek said, “It is with great humility, respect, and reverence that I accept the 2016 Homeric Award.”

He spoke eloquently about his family, including his Theo Niko who told him, “There is no higher honor than being recognized by your own people,” and about his late grandparents who were so influential in his life, especially Yiayia Evyenia. Psaros said, “Even though my Yiayia only completed the third grade, she may be the best writer I have ever encountered. She wrote in lyrical poetry, not prose. She wrote many speeches I delivered as a young man. She is watching us this evening from heaven.” He noted that she taught him how to speak in public and her home in West Virginia was donated to the Weirton Christian Center and “she continues to help the poor and less fortunate through the house that she loved.”

Psaros also spoke about his pride in being a Chiote, about the value system he was raised with as a member of the Hellenic community, and about the Orthodox faith and Hellenism. He observed that, “there is no such thing as Hellenism without Orthodoxy.”

Psaros continued, “Chios, Mytilene, and Kos are ground zero for one of the world’s worst refugee crisis” and that Greece is under threat from Turkey, but it is not the first time. He listed the historical events that have tested Greece over hundreds of years and still Greece with an enduring spirit survives, but more needs to be done. Psaros called on all those present to unite their efforts behind the leadership of Andy and Mike Manatos in Washington, DC.

Announcing that for the funds raised by the Chian Federation in the US and Canada, Psaros and wife Robin will donate up to $100,000 in matching funds received a standing ovation from the audience. As an Archon, he asked for all to pray for His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew, and noted the installation of the Justinian cross atop the dome of St. Nicholas Church and National Shrine at the World Trade Center which took place on November 28. He said, “I ask everyone to energize their communities regarding St. Nicholas… an American National Shrine, our National Shrine, constructed in a sacred place where 3,000 people were murdered by Islamic terrorists.” Psaros observed that, “experts say it will be the most visited Church in the US and possibly in the hemisphere,” and while millions have been raised, more funds are needed. He concluded his remarks with thanks and blessings, “May the patron saint of our island Ayia Markella send her blessings to all of you and your families. I hope everyone has a blessed Christmas and New Year. Xronia polla.”

Following is the full speech of Michael Psaros:

Reverend Clergy,

Your excellencies,

Esteemed members of Chian Federation,

Family, Friends and Colleagues,

My family and I thank you for attending this evening’s event.

It is with great humility, respect and reverence that I accept the 2016 Homeric Award.
Upon hearing that I was to receive the Homeric Award, my Theo Niko said to me “there is no higher honor than being recognized by your own people.” He is right. This is a very important moment in my life. This is very personal. Everyone in this room is family, and you have decided to honor me, a member of your family.

Tonight, I dedicate this this prestigious Homeric Award to the people of Chios. To the people, the DEMOS, who deserve this recognition much more than me.

Tonight, I dedicate this Award to my grandparents of blessed memory, Harilaos Loufakis and Evyenia Gailas Loufakis, who immigrated from XIOS in the early 1930s. I can assure you when they left OLYMPOI nine decades ago, they could have never dreamed that their grandson would be standing in New York City being honored by their own people.

I never knew my grandfather who fell asleep in the Lord before I was born, but my YiaYia raised me. Along with my father’s father, my mother’s mother, stands as one of the two giants in my life.

Even though my YiaYia only completed the third grade, she may be the best writer I have ever encountered. She wrote in lyrical poetry not prose. She wrote many speeches that I delivered as a young man. She is watching us this evening from heaven. And trust me, she will send me a sign critiquing my speech, and offering suggestions on how to improve my delivery. I learned how to speak in public by standing in front of her International Harvester refrigerator, and being drilled over and over on what professionals would call spacing, breathing, elocution and diction.

Whether it was a heroic poem for the 25^th of March, practicing to offer the ASPILE or the KEHTOSEMEN, or just a regular speech for school, her standards for her grandson were exacting.

Her house in my hometown of Weirton, West Virginia, was donated to the Weirton Christian Center, where it was christened “Evgeniya’s House of Hope”. To this day, she continues to help the poor and less fortunate through the house that she loved.

But what matters most to me, is that my Yiayia’s love for me was the most unconditional I have never known or will I ever know.

May the Memory of my Grandparents be Eternal.

I would like to introduce my wife Robin. Robin is my angel. My conscience. My rock. She keeps me grounded. She is everything that beautiful and good in my life. We have three children: Alexandra, Leo, who is present this evening, and Marina. Leo, every Greek father is proud of his son. But I want you to know, you are already a better man at 17 years old than I will ever be.

I would like to introduce my cousin Harry Harilaos Dematatis, who along with my brother, is named after our grandfather from Chios, Harilaos. I would like to also introduce Harry’s daughter and my God-daughter Ioanna and his son, Alexander.

I thank Archon Peter and Aphrodite Skeadas for attending tonight. They are pillars of our community, and true aspirational and inspirational role models for all us on how to live a righteous life.

I thank my brother and sisters in Christ who are here from the Church of Our Savior in Rye. I love you, respect you and count on you all, more than you will ever know.

Let me start by saying – I burst with pride to say I am a XIOTE.

I would like to share a story with you: we have been to XIOS as a family many times. The first time was in my late twenties when Robin and I were newlyweds.  When we landed on the island, I had one of the most intense, unique and moving experiences of my life. To this day, I believe I was touched by the Holy Spirit. When we landed, while still on the plane, I was overcome with a feeling that I cannot describe. I knew that I had come home. My soul knew.  I cried. I was shaking. And I was right – I was home. How else do you explain such an overwhelming mental, emotional and very physical reaction to touching the soil for the first time?

On a return trip, I experienced one of the greatest days of my life. My family, accompanied by my parents, went to OLYMPOI. My Mother’s grandfather, Father Stamatis, served as the parish priest in the village generations ago. How can I describe the emotion of watching my children, my mother’s grandchildren, enter the old Church where my Mother’s grandfather was the Priest? It was overwhelming.

Why do I burst with pride to say I am a XIOTE? I will explain:

I am who I am today, and to the extent I have had any success, it is because my family raised me with a fundamental understanding that I am an American of Hellenic Descent. This has grounded me. This has provided me with confidence.  This has provided me with dignity.  I know exactly where I am from. The island, the village, the house. I have a sense of place, and that is powerful.
I am who I am today, and to the extent I have had any success, it is because my family raised me with a value system, with the traditions and respect resident in every Greek family, along with accompanying obligations and expectations.   I carry that value system with me every day.  I understood from a young age, that my actions reflect not only on me and family, but on our entire Hellenic Community.

I am who I am today, and to the extent I have had any success, it is because my family raised me our Orthodox Church. I want to be very clear about something, in my opinion, there is no such thing as Hellenism without Orthodoxy.  I can only view Hellenism through the glorious prism of our Church. You cannot separate the two.
My grandparents came to this country with a dream. They understood the possibilities for their family presented by America.

I am who I am today, and to the extent I have had any success, it is because I have also received the great blessing and privilege of being an American. America is and always will be the land of opportunity, a shining city on the hill, a beacon of hope for the world, and has me blessed me with every opportunity to fulfill my dreams.

We gather here tonight at a critical time in Greece’s history.

Greece has experienced an unprecedented financial catastrophe, and its people have suffered under an inhuman, irrational and dogmatic Troica-imposed austerity regime that has destroyed a country, destroyed communities, and caused great injury to families.  Despite everything however, the people, the DEMOS, still maintain the hope and dreams for a better tomorrow. No amount of austerity will ever crush the Greek spirit, sense of destiny, and will to overcome.

Greece is confronted with an epic and unprecedented refugee crisis. This crisis, directly resulting from the failure of the Obama Administration in Syria, has placed an existential burden on the island of Chios and its people. Chios, Mytilene and Kos are ground zero for one of the world’s worst refugee crisis. The humanitarian crisis is beyond the island or the country’s ability to cope.

While the world has watched, the world has done nothing. While Europe has watched, Europe has done nothing. How could the U.S., the EU and NATO have not demanded the Turks seal their border five years ago?

Greece and Chios are confronted by a new Sultan in Constantinople. This absolute dictator has released real criminals from his prisons, in order to make room for over 50,000 journalists, political opponents, judges, teachers, clerics, military personnel and civil servants. This Sultan has suspended all freedoms. This Sultan has absolute control over the second largest military inside NATO.  This Sultan is doing everything he can to turn HAGIA SOPPHIA into a mosque, thereby revealing his hand that he intends to use his dictatorial powers to abandon all pretense of the Turkish Republic being a Republic and a secular state.

Most ominously, in a moment of recent lunacy, he suggested the repudiation of the Treaty of Lausanne, signed on July 24, 1923, which created the modern borders of Turkey. As a result of the Treaty of Lausanne, Modern Turkey gave up claims to the remainder of the Ottoman Empire, and in return, the Allies recognized Turkish sovereignty within its new borders.

In September 2016, the Sultan said and I quote: “They threatened us with Sevres in 1920 and persuaded us to accept Lausanne in 1923. Some tried to deceive us by presenting Lausanne as a victory. At Lausanne, we gave away the (Greek) islands that you could shout across to.”

This is terrifying. He is questioning the Greece’s sovereignty of Chios, Lesvos, Lemnos, Samos and Nikaria.  To this Mr. Sultan, we say “OXI”.

Further, this week, according to the Times of London, the Sultan is threatening to grant 3,000 refugees a day safe passage through Turkey. Where are they going to arrive? Chios, Lesvos and Kos. The silence from Europe has been deafening.

This is unfortunately not the first time Greece and XIOS have been threatened.

We endured 400 years of enslavement and bondage by the Ottoman Turks. For 400 years we successfully fought to maintain our identity, our customs, our culture, our language, and our religion. In 1822, the Turks killed or enslaved over 100,000 men women and children on Chios, substantially all of the population. The survivors lived because they hid in caves.  “The Massacre of Chios”, as it is known, was immortalized by the painter Delacroix, whose paintings of the massacre are resident in every great museum in Europe. We survived the Balkan Wars, WWI, WWII including the horrific German occupation, Civil Wars and the Cold War.

We will survive today’s events too.

Ladies and Gentlemen, now is the time for us to rally in support of XIOS and Greece. And I am not talking about waving flags in our Church halls. That does absolutely nothing.

Rather, I suggest we act concretely:

First, Washington, D.C.  may be the only leverage we have to check the forces confronting Greece today. I am exhorting our entire Diaspora, our Hellenic American Community, and each of our respective Hellenic and Orthodox Organizations, to finally coordinate our respective political and lobbying activities in Washington. To speak with one voice. We all have an identical agenda. We have the same heart. We have the same soul. We need to unite to coordinate our efforts to ensure the new Administration protects the territorial and national integrity of Greece and Cyprus. I have great confidence in our ability to do so. Andy and Mike Manatos are our two angels in Washington, D.C. We should merge all of various efforts behind their leadership.

Second, we need the North American Xian and Greek community to send meaningful assistance to XIOS, especially medical supplies and pharmaceuticals. This was just done for Lesvos. My brother, Nick Livanos, present this evening with his wife Lorena, hosted an event that his restaurant, Moderne Barne, in Armonk that raised $60,000 for Lesvos. In total, this was part of a $250,000 contribution that funded a shipment of medical supplies to Lesvos.

I commend the XIAN Federation for its efforts since 2012 to respond to the economic plight of XIANS due to the financial catastrophe.  The Metropolis of Chios, under his Eminence Metropolitan Markos, began a soup kitchen, to help provide meals to the poor.  This soup kitchen feeds almost 700 people a day including pensioners, the unemployed, and kids that go to school hungry.  In addition, the XIAN Federation has purchased pharmaceuticals for the poor and supplies to the hospital that is short of basic, clean sheets and towels and medical supplies. The XIAN Federation has provided funding so that the hospital could purchase CAT SCAN equipment and equipment for cardiograms and mammograms.

The XIAN FEDERATION’S goal from the beginning of the relief effort was to raise and send $5,000 per month to XIOS.  To date, the Federation has raised $180,000.  The money is wired the Metropolis’ Philoptochos account and the Federation works directly with the Philoptochos and the Metropolis to distribute the funds.  The Federation has three of its own people on the ground directing efforts.

More must be done.

Robin and I will match any funds raised by the Xian Federation in the U.S. and Canada, dollar for dollar, up to $100,000, and believe me we will do more, specifically for medical supplies and pharmaceuticals. We have hundreds of Xian Chapters throughout the Churches in the Archdiocese. Dr. Peter’s advice and council will be critical. Let’s get moving. Embros!

I would like to conclude with a few exhortations:

First, whether it has been in my professional or personal life, I believe in leading by example.  Words are powerful, but nothing speaks louder than actions. I ask you to support and embrace our Church and the Holy Archdiocese. We live in an increasingly secular country, where this is a war against organized religion and faith of any kind.  As XIOTES, I exhort you to lead through your actions, to be living Icons, to be true examples of our faith and to thus inspire others. Get involved, volunteer, contribute.

As an Archon, Ostiarios, of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, and a member of the Executive Board of the Order of St. Andrew, first called of the Apostles, it is incumbent on me to ask you, and your communities to pray for His All Holiness, Bartholomew, Archbishop of Constantinople and New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch, who is now under siege from many forces. His All Holiness just celebrated the 25^th anniversary of his enthronement. We, as XIOTES must act as vocal advocates of our Mother Church in the in Washington and in our statehouses.
Finally, this past Monday, an Orthodox Justinian Cross was placed on the dome of the new St. Nicholas that will tower over Ground Zero forever. For Robin and me, the blessing of laying one of the cornerstones of the Church was one of the most transcendent and humbling experiences of our life.  I ask every one of you to energize communities regarding that St. Nicholas.  St. Nicholas is an American National Shrine, our National Shrine, constructed in a sacred place where 3,000 people were murdered by terrorists. This is not just another Church in New York. Experts believe that St. Nicholas may become the most visited Church in the U.S. As members of our community, I ask that you take a leadership role in ensuring we raise the capital required to construct and endow St. Nicholas. While we have raised almost $40 million, much more is required.
Thank you for spending time with me this evening.

Thank you for honoring me with the Homeric Award.

May the patron Saint of our Island, Ayia Markella, send her blessings to all of you and your families.

I hope everyone has a blessed Christmas and New Year.

Xrponia Polla

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RYE, NY – The James Plevritis-Joseph C. Keane New Rochelle AHEPA Chapter No. 405 in its annual Initiation/Luncheon, the chapter’s signature event, honored AHEPA Brother, Nikitas Drakotos for his outstanding contribution to Hellenism, at the Westchester Country Club in Rye, NY on Saturday December 3. AHEPA Supreme President Andrew Zachariades assisted by numerous members of the Supreme and District Lodges, participated in the honors and tribute.

Keynote speaker, Supreme President Zachariades gave an inspiring address on his recent journey to Greece with President Obama and his visit with senior leaders of the European Union to the more than 200 guests attending the luncheon. “It’s interesting to note,” Zachariades stated, “AHEPA was the only Hellenic organization invited to attend these festivities in Greece.”

Luncheon event Chairman James Zafiros in his introduction of Brother Nikitas Drakotos said, “Brother Drakotos’ Hellenistic journey is beyond impressive. Certainly, he has a very inspiring resume, but the man behind it, is what this tribute is all about. Perhaps no other Hellene of recent memory has lifted Hellenism to a higher level in so many organizations.

Drakotos’ inspiring approach to Hellenism includes the Presidency of Hanac and St. Michaels, membership in the Archon National Council and the Leadership 100, and he is a recipient of the highly coveted Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the Archangel Michael and St. Spyridon Awards.”

“No stage is big enough for you, Brother Nikitas, and New York is the Nation’s biggest stage. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere,” Zafiros concluded.

Drakotos received a five-minute standing ovation from the guests and Ahepans who attended. The word “Axios” was repeated by everyone.

Drakotos’ response was humble gratitude to the large number of Ahepans and guests, many who came from distances outside the Metropolitan area, from Albany, New Jersey, and Connecticut to honor him. He attributed his success in America to his early years in Greece which gave him the courage and determination to come to America and build a successful journey.

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WASHINGTON, DC – The American Hellenic Institute Foundation (AHIF) has released its eighth volume of its policy journal. The online journal is available gratis at AHIF Policy Journal website, https://ahiworld.org/AHIFpolicyjournal/.

The policy journal of the American Hellenic Institute is a forum for commentary and scholarship on issues of vital importance to Greek Americans. In his introduction to the current issue, Editor Dan Georgakas writes of the pressing foreign policy issues facing the United States, Greece, and Cyprus.

Georgakas stated, “A new administration has arrived in Washington during a perilous time in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey is rapidly moving toward a dictatorial government while simultaneously questioning legally established borders. The challenges remain: the intransigence of an authoritarian Turkey, the continuing refugee crisis, the political quagmires in Syria and Iraq, the possibility of a Kurdish state, the persecution of non-Muslims in much of the Arab world, and jihadists able to mount terrorist actions in the West as well as in the Middle East.”

The issue’s first section is titled, “The Crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean.” Six essays discuss the crisis from a variety of perspectives. The five essays that follow take on broader issues that concern Greek America. In the “Emerging Voices of Greek America” section, young scholars and activists discuss the refugee crisis in Greece, gay rights in Greece, and the Pontian and Armenian genocides. Our two book reviews address the economic crisis in Greece and the some of the roots of the Cyprus conflict.

Here is a list of the articles.

The Crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean
Setting the Record Straight on Turkey by Nick Larigakis
Turkey’s Non-European Perspective by Karolos Gadis
On the Centenary of the Greek Genocide by Hannibal Travis
Turkish Aggression: US Interests, and the Need for Stability in the Eastern Mediterranean by Constantine G. Hatzidimitriou
The Persecution of Christians in the Middle East by Alon Ben-Meir
The Forgotten Genocide of the Greeks of Asia Minor by George Mavropoulos
Feature Essays
Germany’s Wartime Occupation Loan: A Legal View by Nicholas Karambelas
Setting the Record Straight on “Macedonia” by Georgea Polizos
From Plato to NATO: 2,500 Years of Democracy and The End of History by Despina Lalaki
Immigration of Jews from Ioannina to the United States by Marcia Haddad Ikonomopoulos
Defending and Advancing Hellenic Values and Interests by Leonidas Petrakis
Emerging Voices of Greek America
Greece’s Other Crisis: The Rise of the Refugee Crisis and the Decline of European Political Unity by Michael Boosalis and Chris Kennard
Are All Greeks Really Equal Before the Law? by Ruth-Helen Vassilas
To Recognize or Not? The Politics of the Pontian and Armenian Genocides by Melina Dunham

Book reviews:
James K. Galbraith’s Welcome to the Poisoned Chalice: The Destruction of Greece and the Future of Europe, reviewed by Peter Bratsis
Andreas Constandinos’ The Cyprus Crisis: Examining the Role of the British and American Governments During 1974, reviewed by Chris Deliso.

The AHIF Policy Journal invites authors to submit articles on recent policy and historical developments that affect US relations with Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Southeastern Europe, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Authors are encouraged to submit completed articles to Yola Pakhchanian via email at: yolap@ahiworld.org
Submission guidelines and publishing information are available online at: http://ahiworld.org/AHIFpolicyjournal/author-guidelines/ or following the link from the AHI website at www.AHIworld.org.

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SCHERERVILLE, IN – AHEPA continues to provide scholarships for deserving students across the country. Among the many offered by the historic organization and its various chapters, the National AHEPA Scholarships, the AHEPA-DOP District 12 Scholarships, and the Peter J. Economos Memorial Scholarship are all currently accepting applications. Check the guidelines below and the individual websites and local AHEPA chapters for more details.

National AHEPA Scholarships

AHEPA’s commitment to education has been well documented throughout its history. Over $4 million is endowed at the local, district, and national levels toward the scholarships, and a half-million dollars is awarded annually. Thousands of young men and women have benefited as recipients of AHEPA scholarships at these various levels. The AHEPA National 2017 educational scholarship application is now available.

The applications deadline is March 31, 2017. Any application postmarked after March 31, 2017 will not be considered. More information on the guidelines and access to the scholarship application is available online at www.ahepa.org/Education-Scholarships.htm.

AHEPA Athletics also issues Scholar-Athlete Scholarships. More information on the guidelines and access to the Nomination Form for the AHEPA Scholar-Athlete Scholarship is available online at www.ahepa.org/AHEPA-Athletics/forms/AHEPA.current.SCHOLAR-ATHLETE%20APPLICATION.pdf.

AHEPA-DOP District 12 Scholarship

The AHEPA-Daughters of Penelope District No. 12 Foundation, Inc. provides opportunities to pursue higher education, to share cross-cultural experiences, and promote philanthropic programs.

The Foundation encourages the development of civic responsibility and individual excellence, promotes and encourages American values of family, participatory democracy, and free enterprise.
The AHEPA-DOP District 12 Foundation has posted the 2017 rules, eligibility, and scholarship application on the foundation website at www.ahepadopfoundation.org/uploads/2017_Foundation_Scholarship_Application___Rules.pdf.

AHEPA-DOP District 12 Foundation will be offering five $1,500 dollar scholarships for the year 2017, three (3) High School graduating senior awards and two (2) College undergraduate awards. The deadline for returned application is Saturday, April 1st, 2017. All applications postmarked after this date will be disqualified.

Peter J. Economos Memorial Scholarship

The 2017 application for the Peter J. Economos Memorial Scholarship is now available. This scholarship is provided by Order of AHEPA Chapter #260 (Chicago, Illinois) in District 13.
A) All applicants must:

1) Be a high school senior who is graduating or has graduated in 2017 and is pursuing or will pursue a post-secondary education by attending a vocational, trade or technical school, or a college or university,

OR

2) Be an undergraduate student who is currently enrolled in a post-secondary course of education by attending a vocational, trade or technical school, or a college or university.

B) Satisfy one of the following conditions:

1) Must be a current or former participant in the Junior Olympics,

OR

2) The applicant, or a parent of the applicant, must be a member in good standing of the 13′ District (Illinois and Wisconsin) Ahepa family (Order of Ahepa, Daughters of Penelope, Sons of Pericles or Maids of Athena),

OR

3) The applicant, or a parent of the applicant, must be a member in good standing of a Greek Orthodox Parish within the Metropolis of Chicago (please contact your parish priest for this determination).

C) Complete, sign and return the personal information portion of this application (Sections II-IX) to Mr. Nicholas P. Bobis, whose address appears above, by the deadline date of Monday, May 8, 2017.
More information on the guidelines and application is available online at http://petereconomosscholarship.com/PeterEconomosScholarshipApplication.pdf.

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WASHINGTON, DC – The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) celebrated its 42nd anniversary with its annual Hellenic Heritage Achievement and National Public Service Awards Dinner at the Capital Hilton in Washington, DC on March 12.

Three hundred guests filled the ballroom to honor four notable Greek Americans whose acceptance speeches reflected their humility and their devotion to Hellenism and excellence.

Dr. Van Coufoudakis- professor and academic leader, and Paul Glastris- journalist and publisher, received the Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award. Coufoudakis was lauded “for his academic achievements, domestically and internationally and for his fervent advocacy the rule of law regarding U.S. relations with Greece and Cyprus.” Glastris was honored “in recognition of his enduring commitment to a free press.”

The Hellenic Heritage Achievement Award was presented to Dennis Mehiel, industrialist and social entrepreneur, “for his business, philanthropic and civic achievements,” and Dr. George Korkos, surgeon and entrepreneur, “for this lifelong commitment and leadership in medicine and activism in the Greek American community.”

Greetings were offered by AHI’s president Nick Larigakis and AHI Foundation president Constantine Galanis.

Broadcaster Larry Michael, the longtime voice of the Washington Redskins, was introduced as the Emcee by James H. Lagos, treasurer of the American Hellenic Institute Foundation. Sophia Pelekasis sang spirited renditions of the Greek and American national anthems and Father Konstantinos Pavlakos offered the benediction invocations.

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Los Angeles, CA – The National Hellenic Student Association (NHSA) of North America, Inc., hosted their first bi-annual convention on the West Coast in Los Angeles, CA, March 10-12, 2017.

In L.A., NHSA united over 85 students and young professionals from across the U.S., Canada, and Greece for a day-long conference exploring the work of Hellenes in the fields of art and innovation. Attendees also spent time networking and bonding over several NHSA sponsored activities during the weekend convention.

The convention kicked off on Friday, March 10, at The L.A. Hotel Downtown where the NHSA Executive Board greeted attendees arriving throughout the day to check-in. Participants later had the opportunity to meet and network with each other during the welcome dinner at the St. Sophia Cathedral Huffington Center with food provided by local Greek restaurant Papa Cristo’s Greek Grill & Catering.

Friday socializing continued with an entertaining Greek Night featuring the impressive DJ Gus Sverkos.

The following morning, attendees enjoyed breakfast at the beautiful campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) before the conference began. Opening remarks were offered by NHSA President, Mr. Alexander Thomopulos, who introduced the conference theme of Art and Innovation and spoke about the importance of serving one’s community and pursuing excellence even in anonymity.

Dr. David Schaberg, dean of the College of Humanities at UCLA, welcomed attendees to Los Angeles, followed by warm regards from V. Rev. Fr. John Bakas of St. Sophia Cathedral; Hon. Gregory Karahalios, consul general of Greece in L.A.; Mr. Andreas Kyprianides, honorary consul general of Cyprus in L.A.; Dr. Jim Dimitriou, past supreme president, AHEPA; and Gov. Michael Dukakis, former governor of Massachusetts and visiting professor, UCLA.

As a reminder to the audience about the importance of civic engagement, Dukakis said, “I want to see you guys deeply and actively involved in the political life in this country, and don’t let anyone tell you ‘you can’t do it.’” Ms. Konstantina Panagiotopoulos, NHSA vice president and conference emcee, followed with an introduction of the guest speakers. Dr. Yiannis Yortsos, dean of the Viterbi School of Engineering, USC, moderated the Innovation and Entrepreneurship panel that included Mr. Peter Polydor, CEO of Ergo Capital; Mr. Michalis Raptis, software engineer at Google L.A.; and Ms. Eirini Schlosser, founder of Chuz. In response to students’ questions about finding success in one’s field, Mr. Polydor emphasized that “talent always follows opportunity,” while reflecting on his personal experience.

After the panel discussion, attendees enjoyed lunch on the campus pavilion provided by Good Greek Grill. Following lunch, Ms. Katerina Zacharia, professor of Classics and Architecture, Loyola Marymount University, presented her research in classics and discussed the evolution of the arts from ancient Greece through today, and the pivotal role that language has played in its portrayal and documentation through time, before moderating the Arts panel.

Ms. Anna Giannotis, a writer and director, followed with a brief viewing of her documentary for the Greek Heritage Society of Southern California that highlights the assimilation of Greek diaspora community in California. 1 The conference continued with a screening of the 2015 film Worlds Apart, where many attendees had the unique opportunity to view the movie for the first time. After the screening, the Director of Worlds Apart, Mr. Christoforos Papakaliatis, and Musical Composer, Mr. Kostas Christides, had an engaging Q&A with participants about the making of the movie and its social, cultural, and artistic influence. When asked what parting advice he would like to give to the audience, Mr. Papakaliatis said, “believe in what you really want.

Of course take advice, listen, read, and look, but always go with your instincts.” Upon concluding the day-long conference, buses escorted the attendees to the Griffith Observatory to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking L.A. sunset before heading back to The L.A. Hotel Downtown. Saturday continued with DJ Gus Sverkos making a second appearance at Joseph’s of Hollywood, co-hosted with Good Greek Grill.

On Sunday, NHSA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization,  sponsored a visit to the Getty Villa to see the beautiful gardens, private collection of artifacts and replica architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. The final stop before returning to the hotel was at In-N-Out Burger, a local favorite, where everyone enjoyed lunch and exchanged contacts to keep in touch.

“Our first convention on the West-Coast was an astounding success and we are proud to have brought such influential people in their respective fields in contact with students and young professionals,” said NHSA President Alexander Thomopulos. “NHSA received encouraging and enthusiastic feedback, and we look forward to maintaining a presence while inspiring the local HSAs and young Hellenes to become more active, which in turn would promote the Hellenic community at large.”

The NHSA Executive Board would like to thank our participants who traveled from near and far, as well as the special guests, speakers, mentors, and sponsors for continuously supporting our organization in our mission to unite the Hellenic and Cypriot diaspora through educational, professional and social platforms.

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NEW YORK – On May 13, Orthodox Christians celebrated 25 years of global philanthropic outreach by International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), the official humanitarian agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, at a reception held in the Chiotes Hall of the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New York.

Local volunteers, led by event chair Marina A. Belessis-Casoria, organized the reception. Among those in attendance were Fr. John Vlahos, Dean of the Archdiocesan Cathedral, and members of the IOCC Board including Charles J. Hinkaty, and IOCC Development Officer Louis Zagami, both of whom spoke eloquently at the event about the organization’s life-saving humanitarian interventions as an expression of the Orthodox faith. There are an estimated 800,000 Orthodox faithful who live in the Tri-State area.

The second-annual fundraising event featured wine and hors d’oeuvres and a short film presentation followed by a Q&A session with Zagami.

Hinkaty began his remarks by saying Christ is Risen in different languages to which those in attendance replied Truly He is Risen, demonstrating the variety of nationalities present. He noted the efforts in various countries including the farming cooperative in Northern Greece and programs to feed those affected by the economic crisis.

The film highlighted IOCC’s worldwide efforts through the eyes of volunteers like Natasa Samardzic who was a teenager during the wars in the former Yugoslavia and was among the many people helped by IOCC at that time. Coming to the US as a refugee and settling in Chicago, Samadzic noted how the organization makes a difference in people’s lives. She now volunteers for the IOCC, helping others in need.

The Q&A session provided answers and clarification to many in attendance about how IOCC delivers its aid and how everyone can volunteer and support the ongoing efforts in a variety of ways. Zagami noted that “an average of 92 cents on every dollar donated has gone directly to assisting the people IOCC serves. On average, every dollar given has helped us secure $7 in support from public and private institutional sources.”

He observed that IOCC is a top rated charity with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest and most-utilized independent evaluator of charities. This is the highest ranking that a charity can receive for its sound business practices, including financial accountability and transparency.

IOCC was formed by the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA), the predecessor to the modern-day Assembly, in 1992 along with lay leaders Mr. Charles R. Ajalat, Mr. Andrew A. Athens, and Mr. John G. Rangos, Sr. IOCC is also grateful for the faithful support of honorary board members Mr. George M. Marcus and the late Dr. George J. Farha, who both played essential roles in ensuring its growth and continued service over the last 25 years.

IOCC united the efforts of Orthodox Christians in response to the historic upheaval caused by the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the wars in the former Yugoslavia, which displaced 2.5 million people. Since then, IOCC has provided more than $600 million in humanitarian assistance to vulnerable people in more than 60 countries.

IOCC was created in 1992 in response to the collapse of the Soviet Union and to support innocent people caught in the crosshairs of war in former Yugoslavia, which is represented by the silver anniversary’s theme: “Inspired by Faith, Driven by Purpose.”

Today, IOCC is one of the only US-based humanitarian organizations operating on the ground in Syria and also implements programs in Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Greece to support refugees. In addition, IOCC’s Give for Greece program provides assistance to Greek families whose livelihoods have been devastated by the ongoing financial crisis through food aid and job-creation programs in the agricultural sector. Elsewhere, IOCC is building schools in Haiti, helping the people of Ethiopia to combat podoconiosis and provide mobility for disabled persons, and supporting economic development programs in places like Kosovo and Gaza.

Mark D. Stavropoulos is IOCC’s Chairman of the Board, who leads a diverse group of philanthropists and community leaders, all of whom represent IOCC’s pan-Orthodox constituencies. He commented on IOCC’s silver anniversary: “It has been my deep privilege to serve alongside my fellow Board Members, IOCC’s dedicated staff across the globe, our exceptional partners in the Orthodox Church, and our partner organizations to help those in need. We take care to select projects that are able to achieve the longest-possible impact amongst the highest-number of beneficiaries. And though our programs are meant to provide for others, our inspiring beneficiaries provide the entire IOCC team with immeasurable love, hope, and wisdom that keeps us humble in our work.”

More information is available at www.iocc.org.

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WASHINGTON, DC – The American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (Order of AHEPA), the leading association of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Marshall Plan in a statement issued by Supreme President Andrew C. Zachariades:

“This week, 70 years ago, Secretary of State George C. Marshall called for a U.S. economic aid program to restore the economic infrastructure of postwar Europe that would be known as the Marshall Plan. Marshall’s generous $706 million aid program to Greece helped bring economic and social recovery and prosperity after World War II and the Greek Civil War.

“In appreciation and in honor of a great American solider, statesman, humanitarian, and Philhellene, AHEPA erected the George C. Marshall Statue on the grounds of the U.S. Embassy in Athens in October 2000. The statue is a fitting monument to the strength and endurance of the U.S.-Greece relationship. The American Hellenic community is grateful to George C. Marshall and to all those who helped to make his vision for humanitarian aid for Europe, and especially Greece, a reality.”

At the October 12, 2000 dedication of the Marshall Statue, then-Supreme President Johnny N. Economy said: “I find it interesting that we are honoring a warrior who could have taken the route of ‘to the victor goes the spoils’ but who instead embraced the Hellenic principles of philanthropy and philoxenia to help the world recover from the terrible years of war. In dedicating the statue tonight we should pause and understand that our commitment to the things George Marshall has done should not end here. Perhaps we should recommit ourselves to those Hellenic principles of philanthropy and philoxenia in our everyday lives.”

In his remarks, then-U.S. Ambassador to Greece R. Nicholas Burns commented that Marshall was the American who did the most good for Greece and the Greek people in the twentieth century.

“The powerful memory of our shared past, over 180 years of history, unites us here this evening,” Ambassador Burns said. “As we look to that past there is no event more important, more compelling, and more decisive for both of our peoples than the Marshall Plan and its lasting impact on Greece.”

Through the AHEPA Centennial Foundation, Inc., the AHEPA family raised $110,000 to complete the Marshall Statue.

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Founded in 1922 in Atlanta, Georgia, on the principles that undergirded its fight for civil rights and against discrimination, bigotry, and hatred felt at the hands of the Ku Klux Klan, AHEPA is the largest and oldest grassroots association of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes with more than 400 chapters across the United States, Canada, and Europe.

AHEPA’s mission is to promote the ancient Greek ideals of Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family and Individual Excellence through community service and volunteerism.

For more information, please visit www.ahepa.org.

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