What is popular in America for March 25 Greek Independence Day programs? Greek bows for girls and women.
This past summer, I went shopping at Sotiris Mantzouranis fabric store at the corner of Kolokotronis Square, Tripoli, Greece. My mission was to buy materials to create Greek independence day bows. “they use blue and white ribbons,” said owner Sotiris. “I have two types of miniature, embroidered flags you can glue on the bows.”
In our Queens, we created bows with glued flags in center. We then glued them on barrettes. Fashionable and admired by all, or other was to buy ready-made bows from Etsy. Nothing on Amazon.
If you have family or friends visiting Greece, asked them to go shopping in a fabric store for blue-and-white ribbons and 1 to 2 inch embroidered flags. A creative fun project for all to enjoy.
“Our citizens are dedicated to the trades, professions, and sciences. We are your supporters in Greece and Overseas. The Arcadians remain loyal to the traditions and sacrifices of our Nation on behalf of the Christian Faith and for the freedom of our country,” –1 Andreas Lykourentzos, former Deputy Prime Minister of Education.
These are the roots of Educator/Administrator Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis. He was honored Saturday, February 10th afternoon at Terrace on the Park, Flushing, NY by the Greek American Teacher Federation, and its associations. International Greek Language Day is celebrated annually coinciding with the commemoration National Poet Dionysios Solomos, author of Greek national anthem. A luncheon followed. The event was hosted by President Stella Kokolis Of the Greek American Teachers Federation, President Vasiliki Filiotis of the Hellenic Paideia organization, and affiliate organizations.
“Dr. Koularmanis’ achievements in Greek education are especially noteworthy,” said Dr. John Spiridakis, St. John’s University full professor of Interim Department of Education Chair, TESOL Graduate and Bilingual Education programs. “He has dedicated his life and work to promoting and improving Greek schooling across the USA. His educational research has contributed to the body of knowledge in this area. He is an esteemed colleague and friend.
Dr. Koularmanis family is from Tripolis, Greece. The leaders of the following Arcadian organizations attended: President Angeliki Vournas of Pan Arcadian Federation of America (PFA); Christos Vournas Pan Arcadian Federation of America Eastern District Governor (PFA E.D.); Dimitris Filios, Journalist/Public Relations consultant and Board member of “Geros tou Morea” chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation and Dr. John G. Siolas, Board member of “Geros tou Morea” chapter, member of Council of Education and former President of the GOA Council of Education under Archbishop Iakovos.
”Dr. Koularmanis was a member of the Arcadian Youth, said Angeliki Vournas, PFA President and Chis Vournas, PFA E. D. Governor. “His leadership and enthusiasm for the Hellenic Culture were well noticed! He excelled in education and earned a Doctorate degree. He served, with distinction, the Greek Paideia! For all his service and accomplishments, we, as Arcadians, are very Proud of Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis! AXIOS!” Mr. Demetrios Filios and Dr. John G. Siolas said “Dr. Koularmanis dedicated over 20 years of service to St. Demetrios Cathedral school system, which raised and created academic excellence. He has continued these high standards.”
PanArcadian Federation of America supporting their patrioti
I have worked personally with the Department of Education of the Greek Orthodox Church since 1974 as a Greek language educator. The 2024 Department of Education has undergone a complete makeover. “We have communicated and worked with the metropolises of the United States,” explained Dr. Koularmanis. “We have united the education curriculum of Greek schools. A curriculum for teaching Greek as a Heritage language has been created. Monthly virtual seminars are scheduled. Educators are able to share their views online with professors.”
We now have a new online adult language program free,” he said. “People of diverse backgrounds and geographic locations will have the opportunity to reconnect with their roots. They will learn Greek. We have outstanding instructors, who will encourage active student participation and learning. We helped over 100 communities receive free technology hardware from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.”
“We helped schools transition to online learning, with free online resource materials,” he revealed. “Our Department with the Center for Lifelong Learning at the Democritus University of Thrace offers a certification program for educators in the teaching of Greek as a Heritage language. A $600,000 grant in 2021 by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) supports: Greek education programs; expansion of its offerings to students, and teacher professional development. The Niarchos Foundation is always helping the Greek parochial schools. Everything we do is free, at no cost to the community.”
“In addition, we have assisted in the support of the Cathedral School and rebuilding of the transfiguration Church in Corona. Archbishop Elpidophoros appointed me president of the community, that I grew up. We created a new children’s book “Oi Rizes Mou” (Our Roots) in Greek on Culture and traditions. It will be available in English Spring 2024.”
“Dr. Koularmanis supervises our 25 Archdiocesan Day Schools and more than 500 Afternoon Schools spread across the country,” said Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas, former President of the High Council of Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. “Dr Koularmanis has shaped the minds and hearts of our children. He has preserved our rich cultural heritage and language. The Honoree has served all our communities in immeasurable ways. He is dedicated to expanding the resources that represent the roots of the diaspora in America. He helped create a Greek heritage curriculum, virtual seminars, supporting the establishment of a Hellenic Education Fund, 200th !821 Greek Revolution Anniversary and Hagia Sophia Cathedral project and other cooperative efforts.” His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros continues to be the inspiration and force behind these remarkable Greek Orthodox Church education expansion programs.
“The Greek language transcends its role as a mere means of communication,” he said. “It is a treasure chest that unfolds the narrative of our culture, history, and philosophical ideas. It forms a bridge to the great scholars, poets, and philosophers whose influence shaped Western civilization. By nurturing the flame of the Greek language, we safeguard a fragment of our identity—an unbreakable link to a past that fortifies our present and future.”
Dr. Koularmanis is probably the foremost American born, educator and administrator that has New York City public school and Greek parochial school education of his generation. Dr. Koularmanis received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education from Queens College, CUNY, in 1992. He returned to Queens College where he earned his Master’s Degree in Secondary Education in 1996. After several years of teaching, he pursued his Administrative Certification from Queens College, which he obtained in 1999. In 2016, Dr. Koularmanis received his Doctorate degree in Education from St. John’s University. He holds multiple licenses in various areas of education in several states.
Dr Koularmanis is married to Mary Foukas. They have 2 sons, Demetrios and Ioannis. For further information, contact Dr. Koularmanis at akoularmanis@goarch.org.
President Stella Kokolis presenting award to Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs, Education Department for Hellenic Diaspora,
International Greek Language Day was established February 9th, 2017, to coincide with the anniversary of national ethnic poet, Dionysios Solomos, author of the Greek National anthem. President Mrs. Stella Kokolis of the Greek American Teachers Federation and affiliate organizations celebrated Greek Language Day, Saturday February 10th afternoon at Terrace on the Park, Flushing, NY. 100 people attended. A luncheon followed after the event. Prominent members of the News media, Greek government and Consulate, education leaders of the northeastern states, , business, parochial schools and Greek American organizations attended. attended.
Honoree Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis, Director of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Church of America
The following organizations and leaders hosted the culture event: President Stella Kokolis, Greek American Teachers Federation; President Vasiliki Filiotis and Georgia Filiotis Of Hellenic Paideia of America; and Office of Education Attache of the Office of the Consulate General of NY. Affiliate chapters involved included: President Merope Kyriakou, Greek Teachers Association Prometheus; Mrs. Elei Pylarinos, Alumni Association of St. Basil’s Teachers Academy; and President Demi Savopoulos, of the Hellenic American Educators Association/UFT.
Honoree Philanthropist Anastasios Vasilakos with Mrs. Stella Kokolis’ family,
The program consisted of: Prayer, Rev. Gregory Stamkopoulos; Program Master of Ceremonies Presentation, Leonidas Papoulias; Greetings, President Stella Kokolis and ; Greeting. Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor at the Consulate General of Greece in New York; Eleni Griva, the University of Western Macedonia; Student poetry presentation, Plato Academy, instructor Katerina Mpliatza, and Dimitrios & Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School, Brooklyn; Presentation of Honorees, Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis, Director of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Church of America; Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs, Education Department for Hellenic Diaspora, Philanthropist Anastasios Vasilakos; Program closing and Luncheon. Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis representative awarded citations to the honorees. This is an incomplete list. For more information, contact Stella Kokolis on Facebook.
Honorees with program organizers and prominent leaders.
“ His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros objectives are to preserve Greek education, “ said Rev. Stamkopoulos in his opening address. “The basis of Western Civilization in the United States of America is Greece. Through reorganization, assistance from donors, new education methods to deal with an American born youth, we will keep our schools strong.”
Students of Plato Academy and Holy Cross School, instructor Katerina Mpliatza,(left) with Mrs. Stella Kokolis, Master of Ceremonies Leonidas Papoulias (3rd from left) with Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs (4th from left)
The Theme is ‘The Hellenic Language, a legendary language that endures to this day’’, explained President Kokolis. “It remains the language of critical thinking. Greek continues as an inspiration for educated people around the world.” Greek is a language spoken for 3,500 years,” said Ms. Pechlivanidi. “It is written the same way with the same alphabet. Greek influence over the entire world. “
Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Papoulias in his presentation explained “ Mrs. Stella Kokolis is recognized locally, nationally, and internationally as a prominent community leader, educator, and humanitarian. She has received numerous awards for her professional, charitable, and political work by major organizations and political leaders both in the United States and abroad.”
Mr. Papoulias stated “Educator, founder of societies to promote education, political activist, supporter of the Greek Orthodox Church, she is a 2023 legend. Generous, always helping all persons and causes, the educator is there for everyone. She has never wavered in her support of Greek language, culture, and Greek Orthodoxy.” Mrs. Kokolis funds community projects anonymously.
Secretary-General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, John Chrysoulakis, virtually said “Greek stands for Dialogue, Diplomacy, Democracy. These three Greek words beginning with the letter “D” have a global meaning: Diaspora. From ancient Greece to today, the word diaspora has remained almost unchanged. It means the spreading of seeds and journey of Hellenism’s values across the globe. Diaspora, is a precious us, extending worldwide, narrating its own history in Greek. that extends to the end of the world and narrates its own history,”
Dr. Griva of the University of Western Macedonia said virtually ”that the Greek language developed scientific theories, philosophical thoughts, and literature of the Western World’s languages. Greek is not a dead language. It influences European languages.”
Students from the Plato Academy and Holy Cross Dimitrios & Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School, Brooklyn inspired us with poetry. Plato Academy instructor Katerina Mpliatza supervised the student presentation.
“I am sending you excellent Greek teachers,” said honoree Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs, Education for Hellenic Diaspora. “International Greek Language Day honors our heritage. Greek is a treasure. It unlocks stories, traditions, and our roots.”
Dr. Koularmanis family is from Tripolis, Greece. The leaders of the following Arcadian organizations attended: President Angeliki Vournas of Pan Arcadian Federation of America (PFA); Christos Vournas Pan Arcadian Federation of America Eastern District Governor; Dimitris Filios, Journalist/Public Relations consultant and Board member of “Geros tou Morea” chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation and Dr. John G. Siolas, Board member of “Geros tou Morea” chapter and member of High Council of Education of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
Honoree philanthropist Anastasios Vasilakos is a supporter of the Plato Academy in Brooklyn, NY. He is lowkey. He supports education projects anonymously.
Dr. Ioanna Lekkakou , Dean of the Greek Drpartment of the Odyssey School, Wilmington, Delaware shared her education philosophy. “Greek enhances a student’s learning of Math, Science, discussing ideas and comparing cultures.” For more information, email ioanna.lekkakou@odyssey.k12.de.us.
Photo1 -Honorees with program organizers and prominent leaders.
Photo2- President Stella Kokolis presenting award to Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs, Education Department for Hellenic Diaspora,
Photo3- Honoree Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis, Director of Greek Education of the Greek Orthodox Church of America;
Photo4- Honoree Philanthropist Anastasios Vasilakos with Mrs. Stella Kokolis’ family,
Photo5- Students of Plato Academy and Holy Cross School, instructor Katerina Mpliatza,(left) with Mrs. Stella Kokolis, Master of Ceremonies Leonidas Papoulias (3rd from left) with Mr. Panagiotis Passas, Director General for International and European Affairs (4th from left)
“Reaching a 100th birthday is like breaking a sports record that has stood for decades. It is a remarkable feat in life”1
A special Fellowship for Yn. Yefkin Megherian, the wife of the late Rev.Vardan Megherian, was held at Holy Martyrs Armenian Church, Bayside, on Sunday, February 4th. The accomplished sculptor was honored on her 100th birthday, in the church hall after services. Two hundred and fifty people attended. A luncheon was served in her honor.
“Taleen and Zarmi Megherian thanked all. Ms. Taleen narrated an outstanding PowerPoint program of Yn Yefkin Megherian life and achievements. Her sculptures are in churches, galleries, and international museums. The honoree’s parents and grandparents were Armenian Orthodox priests.
“Reaching a 100th birthday is like breaking a sports record that has stood for decades. It is a remarkable feat in life”1
A special Fellowship for Yn. Yefkin Megherian, the wife of the late Rev.Vardan Megherian, was held at Holy Martyrs Armenian Church, Bayside, on Sunday, February 4th. The accomplished sculptor was honored on her 100th birthday, in the church hall after services. Two hundred and fifty people attended. A luncheon was served in her honor.
Ruthann Turekian Drewitz spearheaded the centennial celebration. She is an internationally famous opera singer who sang Armenian and opera masterpieces. Her piani9s was Nevart Zeromian.
Past and present Sunday School Superintendents Lynn Jamie, Beatrice Babian and Lara M. Ciamician gave testimonies for the honoree’s legacy. “Yv. Yefkin is an inspiration to our Armenian children. Her heart filled with love inspired us in Sunday School. Thousands have passed through the Holy Martyr’s Church Sunday School for 68 years.” This is an incomplete list. For more information, contact Father Abraham Malkhasyan on Facebook.
Taleen and Zarmi Megherian thanked all. Ms. Taleen narrated an outstanding PowerPoint program of Yn Yefkin Megherian life and achievements. Her sculptures are in churches, galleries, and international museums. The honoree’s parents and grandparents were Armenian Orthodox priests.
“Peace, Hope and Patience are Yv. Yefkin’s traits,” said Rev. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan. “She was the first pillar of the church’s Sunday School. We are all inspired through a beautiful human being. I am blessed for having this beautiful person inspiring me as a priest. We move forward, positively for the future.”
We attended the Armenian/English service. Inspiring! A banner of the Panagia (Virgin Mary) was hanging by the altar, an eastern Orthodox tradition. A large stained glass window of a Roman general with a sword grabbed my attention. Over the general’s head were Armenian crosses with a priest and Roman soldiers by his side. His hand aggressively pointed upwards to the cross, urging his troops to fight. This was St. Vardan.
Who exactly was St. Vardan? He was known as Vardan Mamikonian.”The Persian attempt to impose Zoroastrianism on the Armenians provoked a rebellion, which ended when Vardan and his companions were slain at the Battle of Avarayr. Despite their victory the battle prompted the Persians to renounce their plans to convert Armenia by force, securing religious freedom for Armenian Christians.2
After the death of his father, he became the head of the Mamikonian noble family.] In 420, he went to Constantinople with Mesrop Mashtots and was appointed stratelates (general) of Byzantine Armenia by Theodosius II. In 422, he returned to Vagharshapat, then went to Ctesiphon, where Sasanian king Bahram V recognized him as sparapet of the Kingdom of Armenia; the office of sparapet, the supreme commander of the Armenian armed forces, was held hereditarily by the Mamikonian family.[4] Vardan retained this title after the abolition of the Kingdom of Armenia in 428.3
Why should the West care about the legacy of Armenia, a landlocked country in the Armenian Highlands of West Asia? “For something like five hundred years, Armenians played an important role in the political, military, and administrative life of the Eastern Roman/Byzantine Empire. They served as soldiers and officers, as administrators and emperors. In the early part of this period during the seventh and eighth centuries, when the empire was fighting for its very existence, they contributed greatly to turning back its enemies. But particularly great was their role in the ninth and tenth centuries when as soldiers and officers, administrators, and emperors they dominated the social, military, and political life of the empire and were largely responsible for its greatness.
So dominant indeed was their role during this period that one may refer to the Byzantine empire of these two centuries as Graeco-Armenian; ‘Graeco’, because as always, its civilization was Greek, ‘Armenian’, because the element which directed its destinies and provided the greater part of the forces for its defense was largely Armenian or of Armenian origin. It was a role, moreover, of world-wide historical significance for it was during this period that the empire achieved its greatest success, when its armies triumphed everywhere, its missionaries spread the gospel and with-it civilization among the southeastern Slavs, and its scholars resurrected Greek antiquity, thus making possible the preservation of its literature.
Herein lies perhaps the most important part of the legacy of the Armenians to civilization. But while all this may be true, the point should be made and made with emphasis that the Armenians in Byzantium who furnished it with its leadership were thoroughly integrated into its political and military life, identified themselves with its interest and adopted the principal features of its culture. In brief, like many other elements of different racial origins, as, for instance, Saracens, Slavs, and Turks, who had a similar experience, they became Byzantines.”5 Ivan Aivazovsky, the greatest Marine artist in history, knew this and incorporated themes, looking toward the civilization of Constantinople. Attending the Armenian Orthodox church services and Yn Yefkin Megherian 100th Birthday was a unique experience.
Special appreciation for their assistance: Rev. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan, Holy Martyrs Armenian Church priest, and Carol Anastasian, community activist.
Photo1 – Yn. Yefkin Megherian (sitting) with Father Abraham Malkhasyan and Zarmi Megherian.
Photo2- 250 people attended.
Photo3- YN Mrs. Megherian with past and present Sunday School superintendents, students, clergy, community at cutting of her cake.
Photo4- Yn, Megherian (sitting), with Father Abraham Malkhasyan and YN Malkhasyan (4th and 3rd from left) Zarmi Megherian (5th from left) and parish council members.
Greek Learning includes a culture and a language which has an unbroken oral tradition of more than 3500 years. The Three Hierarchs, Basil the Great of Caesarea, Gregory the Theologian of Nazianzus, and John Chrysostom combined Greek philosophy and Christian faith in the early years of the Christian Roman Empire.
They believed in Greek Classics, Mathematics and Science. They used the Greek language to spread their message in the Greek speaking world of Europe, Africa, and Asia. This continued in the Eastern Roman Byzantine Empire, the Greek Orthodox Church during the 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire, till our present time in 2024.
Legendary Greek American educator Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas, President of the High Council for Greek Education in the USA was honored at the Three Hierarchs Feast on Tuesday morning religious January 30th, at the Greek Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral at 337 East 74th Street. New York, NY 10021. The religious service/Vasilopita (Cutting of New Year’s Bread) was performed by His Eminence, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.
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She served as the first President of the High Council for Greek Education in the US from January 30, 2020, till January 30, 2024, by the request of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. The presidency office is for a two year term. An exception was made for legendary educator/administrator/writer Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas. She is a speaker on Greek culture and education at public events, radio, and television Greek programs.
Mrs. Kromidas was mistress of ceremonies of a memorable student program that included the following schools: The Cathedral School of the Holy Trinity, NYC; Greek American Institute (GAI), Bronx; A. Fantis School, Brooklyn; Dimitrios & Georgia Kaloidis Parochial School (DGK), Brooklyn; St. Demetrios Cathedral School, Astoria; and the William Spyropoulos Day School, Flushing. The students read selections on the meaning of Greek Letters. Greetings were delivered by Director o0f the Department of Greek Education Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis and prominent speakers. For more information, contact https://www.facebook.com/goarch.
“You are our youth, inspiring us to promote Greek Letters, the basis of our ethnic identity,” said President Kromidas to the audience of students. “You give us strength to continue our mission. We are preparing you for your journey as the best citizens in the world. You will become better than us. I thank the educators and parents who work together to continue the success of Greek education.” The underpaid educators, who do not have the economic advantages of the NYC public schools, have created a superior education system through their dedication and unselfish support of the parents and the Greek Orthodox Church of America.
“The great Byzantium, however, is undoubtedly the Orthodox church,” said Lars Brownworth in his groundbreaking podcasts “Lost To The West: The Forgotten Byzantine Empire That Rescued Western Civilization.” “Pressed into service by the forces of nationalism in the 19th and 20th century, the church provided a cultural repository Greek linking the people of the former Empire with the glorious epochs of the past. Today the Byzantine Eagle flutters proudly from the flags of nations, from Albania to Montenegro and though each state has its local version of the church, the heritage all bear is Byzantine.”
“Mrs. Kromidas is one of the most prominent educators in the United States,” said His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros. That is why I asked her to be the first president of the high Council of Greek education in America. She has done so well. You are an example of kindness and goodness, a person who radiates love and goodness for our culture. Thank you for your work. Rev. Vasileios Tsourlis is her successor as President of the High Council of Greek Education in America.”
In a personal interview, Mrs. Kromidas explained “the wonderful chapter of the Supreme Council’s unstoppable struggle for Greek Letters and our culture was completed! ,” said President Kromidas in an interview. “In this unique journey we shared our joys, our anxieties, our challenges and our reflections on the preservation and promotion of our language and our culture. It was an honor to preside over the Council, whose members are authorities in the academic, educational, priestly, and business worlds. I will forever be grateful for their support and encouragement.
What were our accomplishments? They included: Greek language seminars on techniques and curriculum virtual and in person; for Greek language teaching as a Greek heritage language; all our projects were a cooperative effort with the Department of Greek education of the Greek Orthodox archdiocese; the books my roots in Greek were published and will in English within a few weeks; series of seminars with many professors from Greece from leading university’s; celebration of 200 years of the Greek revolution and Hagia Sofia Cathedral; supporting the establishment of a The Hellenic Education Fund to benefit the Greek Archdiocese school; meeting educators, community leaders and pastors across the United States through the Internet during the pandemic and after: many other projects.
Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas is embarking on a new chapter of her educational career. Aristotle, Alexander the Great’s teacher, said “Those who educate children well are more to be honored than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well.”
The CathedralSchool (an accredited institution of learning offering grades N-6), had their first virtual Town Hall Meeting of 2024. They are celebrating the school’s 75th anniversary.
All photos by Despina Siolas, MD./Ph.D.
Dr. Despina Siolas (center) with Father Gilbert and Principal Merope Kyriacou
Giving back is an opportunity to support your favorite cause. A small donation can make a significant difference in someone’s life. The community showed unanimous support in the 4th Annual pancreatic fund raising event to conquer cancer for the Dr. Despina Siolas” laboratory. at H.S. hockey Eagles vs Vikings game on Monday, January 9th, 2024. game was held at Staten Island Skating Pavilion in Charleston at 3080 Arthur Hill Rd. Over three hundred people attended. A fabulous raffle of multiple prizes was offered as part of the fund raising effort. St. Peter’s and St. Joseph by-the-Sea hooked up in a CHSAA A division all-Island battle with the Vikings prevailing 7-2. Despina Siolas MD/Ph. D at Weill Cornell Medicine attended.
The fourth annual game has been renamed the Michael Manna Memorial Game. “Michael Manna was very big in hockey on Staten Island growing up and his son, Evan, was my captain and leading scorer when his dad passed away (last year),” explained St. Peter’s long-time varsity hockey coach Eddie Blackburn, who beat the odds and survived a bout with the disease himself. “We are also honoring Ralph Postiglione, a survivor of pancreatic cancer, as our guest of honor. His sons, Vinny, and Brian, are also my assistant coaches.”1
Ed Blackburn, event organizer, and patient of Dr. Siolas is one of the few people to survive Stage IV pancreatic cancer. He is back to coaching varsity hockey at St. Peters High School, Staten Island. He has a mission: to give back to society. He is honoring Dr. Siolas who administered a personalized medical treatment combination of immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
Volunteers
”She was my Oncologist at NYU during my chemo and she saved my life,” said a proud Blackburn. The coach is in his 20th season at St. Peters High School. Coach Blackburn is an inspiration to the youth he coaches.
Volunteers went door-to-door, asking local businesses, families, and friends to donate. Exceptional gift baskets were created. Mrs. Linda Blackburn and her friends, Dorothy Triano, Karina Liantonio, and Karen Rello of Staten Island created the raffle. A 50/50 cash raffle was held.
“This is a unique event that recognizes the hardships and celebrates the triumphs of pancreatic cancer patients and survivors,” said Dr. Siolas. “I am honored to be a special guest at this event which draws together members of the Staten Island community towards a common goal- curing cancer. I will continue to work tirelessly to advocate for ALL cancer patients and make progress towards a cure.”
Dr. Siolas is a graduate of the MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program at Stony Brook University School of Medicine/Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. She is an alumnus of St. John’s University, Benjamin Cardozo High School, and William Spyropoulos Day School of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, Bayside, NY.
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer related death in the United States. The diagnosis and therapy of pancreatic cancer is challenging due to often unrecognizable symptoms and late-stage diagnosis. For more information, contact. “St. Peter’s Eagles Hockey Club” and donations mailed to Coach Blackburn at 40 Maine Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314.
- Coach Ed Blackburn (3rd from left), Blackburn family (1st, 2nd from left) and Dr. Siolas (right).
His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; received Reverend Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan, Pastor of the Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America (New York). All photos by permission of Fr. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan.
On December 18, 2023, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; received Reverend Fr. Abraham Malkhasyan, Pastor of the Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America (New York), who received the doctoral degree from Fordham University in the USA.
His Holiness, as a token of appreciation, granted a beautiful Pectoral Cross.to Fr. Dr. Malkhasyan
With the blessings of His Holiness Karekin II, Father Abraham continued his studies at the Department of Religion and Religious Studies of Fordham University, defending his doctoral thesis on the topic “Understanding Disaffiliation in the Armenian Church: A Study of Older and Younger Millennials. Fr. Abraham is also teaches at St. John’s University in New York as a professor of Theology.
Fr. Abraham presenting his doctoral work to His Holiness
Presenting his doctoral work to His Holiness, Father Abraham emphasized that the purpose of the work is to identify the current challenges, as a result of which young families find it difficult to participate in church life, and to find ways to overcome them.
The Catholicos of All Armenians reflected with satisfaction about the academic achievement of Father Abraham, emphasizing that this work is an important contribution in the field of pastoral theology and an opportunity for the clergy to familiarize themselves with the issues related to youth.
Fr. Abraham with professors and college students, Etchmiadzin, Armenia.
The Armenian Pontiff noted with joy that the clergymen are engaged in scientific activities in parallel with the pastoral service, enriching their knowledge for the benefit of the spiritual service. At the meeting, His Holiness, as a token of appreciation, granted a beautiful Pectoral Cross. At the conclusion, the Reverend Father presented His Holiness his thesis work and the doctoral diploma.
Fr. Abrham visiting and blessing the graves of fallen Armenian heroes
A wonderful Christmas program was presented Sunday, January 7th in the church hall. For information, contact Lara Ciamcian on Facebook.
Fr. Dr. Abraham at Holy See Etchmiadzin, Armenia.
”THE CURRENT STAGE OF THE DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION IN THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA” is a book co-authored by sociologist Armen Khachikyan, historian Mikayel Malkhasyan, and Fr. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan. The publication highlights the Republic of Armenia’s demographic policy, historical demographic trends, the impact of the 2020 Artsakh War, the coronavirus pandemic, and other factors on demographic processes. The trend of birth and death rates is analyzed, as well as the impact of migration and population distribution system on the demographic situation. Visit Fr. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan on Facebook.
Why should Greek Americans learn about the Armenian contribution to their history? The nation played a unique contribution to Eastern Orthodoxy and Hellenism. Few people know that they carried a lantern of light in the Byzantine Empire throughout its history.
The Byzantine Empire was multi-cultural. Nations and races were united under the Greek language, civilization, and Orthodox faith, calling themselves ROMANS. “Due to centuries of foreign domination, much of Armenian history has been neglected and suppressed,” according to” https://peopleofar.wordpress.com/2011/10/24/armenians-of-byzantium-part-1/.
“As such much of the influence Armenians had on the Byzantine Empire has been swept under the rug by the Ottomans and later the Soviets. Nevertheless, the contributions of Armenian people to the Byzantine Empire have been more than significant. As the historian P. Charanis (1959) says: “The important role played in the history of Byzantium by that talented minority, the Armenians, has been generally unrecognized.” Even though Armenia was only in part a vassal of Byzantium, many Armenians became successful in the Byzantine Empire. From bishops, architects, important military figures and even Emperors, Armenians were represented in all walks of Byzantine life. In fact, one out of five Byzantine emperors and empresses were ethnically full or in part Armenian.”
“The best example of this is Emperor Heraclius, whose father was Armenian and Mother Cappadocian. Emperor Heraclius began the Heraclean dynasty (610-717 A.D.).,” according tohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Armenia .The Akathistos Hymn sung during Orthodox Lent commemorates his victory and saving of Constantinople with the help of Our Lady, Virgin Mary.
Basil, “The Bulgar Slayer “became one of the strongest Byzantine emperors, winning territory in the Balkans, Mesopotamia, Armenia, and Georgia,” according tohttps://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Basil+II+The+Bulgar-Slayer. “He was noted for his victory (1014) in the war with Bulgaria, which ended with his blinding all the soldiers in the defeated Bulgarian army. He increased his domestic authority by attacking the landed interests of the military aristocracy and of the church.” He was of Armenian descent.
The Armenian military power, to some scholars, was the basis of the stability and longevity of Byzantium. A strong army was needed. Armenia was the source. “From the 5th century forwards, the Armenians were regarded as the main constituent of the Byzantine army,” states https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Armenia.
In the article, “Armenia, Byzantium, and the Byzantine Armenians” (https://www.looys.net/byz_arm.html), “another example of the impact of Armenians within the Byzantine Empire is the Great Church known as Hagia Sophia. As Rummel explains, ‘After the great earthquake of October 25, A.D. 989, which ruined the great dome of Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine emperor Basil II asked for the Armenian architect Trdat (or Tiridates), creator of the great churches of Ani and Agine, to repair the dome. The magnitude of the destruction in the church caused reconstruction to last six years. The church was re-opened on May 13, 994.’ The magnificent, reconstructed dome designed by Trdat in the tenth century remains aloft the “Great Church” to this day.” We must not only remember the 100 year genocide, but the unique contribution of Armenians as carriers of the Greek language, civilization, and Eastern Orthodoxy.1
All photos by permission of Fr. Dr. Abraham Malkhasyan.
Scenes from Rev. Dr. Abrham Malkhasyan’s historic visit
Recognition of an outstanding scholar and educators was the highlight of the ’2024 Annual Cutting of the Vasilopita’. President Stella Kokolis, of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, with assistance by President Vasiliki Filiotis of Hellenic Paideia of America and member Georgia Filiotis, motivated the community to attend the Friday evening, January 12th, at the Hellenic Cultural Center on 27-09 Crescent Street, Astoria. Greek Americans from Connecticut, New York City and Long Island attended. Panagiotis Theologitis of St. Demetrios H.S. in Astoria was honored scholar. President Kokolis donated Mediterranean buffet dinner enjoyed by the participants. The community enjoyed communicating and exchanging views on the progress of their churches and schools in this FREE social.
Speakers Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor at the Consulate General of Greece in New York; President Stella Kokolis, Rev. Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Assistant Director, Department of Greek Education Database Administrator, Department of Information Technology; Rev. Gerasimos Ballas, Sts. Constantine and Helen Church and Director of the Hellenic Cultural Center Director Alexandros.
The program consisted of the following speakers: Rev. Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Assistant Director, Department of Greek Education Database Administrator, Department of Information Technology; Rev. Gerasimos Ballas, Sts. Constantine and Helen Church,
Jackson Heights, NY; Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor at the Consulate General of Greece in New York; President Demi Savopoulos, of the Hellenic American Educators Association/UFT, and Eleni Pylarinou, Council of St. Basil’s Academy graduates, Garisson, NY.;
Prominent persons in attendance: Dr. George Melikokis, Vice President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America; Dr. John G. Siolas, of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America High Council for Greek Education in the U.S.; Ms. Pandora Spelios: Maria Carvellas, of the community of St. Irene Chrysovalantou in Astoria with friends;
Mrs. Rita Syntillas, and educators of St. Demetrios H.S. and Sts. Catherine and George School, Astoria; Ms. Amalia Bournias, architect/education community advocate and Mrs. Bournias Mr. Gavalas and others. For a complete list of all who attended, contact https://www.facebook.com/stella.kokolis.7.
President Kokolis explained she “has encouraged Greek language and culture with every archbishop from His Eminence Archbishop Iakovos, The Archbishops of America have planted seeds of Greek culture worldwide. Archbishop Elpidophoros love of children makes him stand out.”
Mrs. Pandora Spelios, who attends every event, said “I enjoy participating in culture events. We see old friends, educators and reconnect.” Honored educator Eleni Pylarinos took trains from the Bronx to attend the Astoria event. “We must make a special effort to support our teacher organizations,” she explained.
Panagiotis Theologitis of St. Demetrios H.S. in Astoria was honored scholar.
“I am dedicated and loyal in keeping Greek alive,” said Dr. Melikokis. “Greek must not be lost to the generation of my grandchildren.” Dr. Melikokis is a legendary principal of several Greek parochial schools in New York City. His enthusiasm and dedication are extrarordinary. He drove 11/2 hours from Connecticut.
Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor at the Consulate General of Greece in New York, explained “ the Greek Consulate sends you the best teachers. The old pioneers are important. Their foundation is appreciated.”
President Demi Savopoulos, of the Hellenic American Educators Association/UFT, took three buses to show her support of the 200th Anniversary of the Greek Revolution. She said “ our devotion to the Hellenic principles and ideals is exceptional. We are passing the torch of Hellenism to our next generation.”
“The Education Fund supported by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros will encourage the growth of Greek education, Said Re. Fr. Gregory Stamkopoulos. “The Fund will enhance the vitality of Greek Education in our national community.”
“I am currently on the School Board of the Cathedral School, NYC. And President of Sts. Constantine and Helen Church in Jackson Heights,” explained President Amalia Bournias. “Children are learning about their Greek Orthodox religion, Greek language, culture, and history. Our schools are expanding.”
Mrs. Rita Syntilas is teaching at St. Demetrios’ H.S. for over 45 years. She is a legend. Generations of students and parents admire Mrs. Syntillas. She aided her late husband, Dennis Syntillas in creating Athens Square in Astoria. She continues to motivate and inspire Greek-American youth at. St. Demetrios H.S. School. All enjoyed reconnection and networking.
The Byzantine inheritance is alive in Greek Orthodoxy with the cutting of the Vasilopita. On January 1st we observe a tradition, both in our churches and in our homes, which has been handed down since the fourth century. It is the baking and cutting of the sweet bread (or cake) known as the Vasilopita (Βασιλόπιτα), named after St Basil the Great. He was made Bishop of Cappadocia in Caesarea and was the first to establish orphanages, hospitals, and age-care homes. This all began in the Byzantine Empire that lasted over one thousand years.
During a catastrophic depression, the emperor put an excessive tax on the people of Caesarea. To avoid prison, the people had to hand over whatever they had: coins and jewelry. St Basil, on learning of this injustice, came to his people’s defense. The emperor repented of his deed and instructed the tax collectors to hand over all the wealth to St Basil.
Faced with the dilemma of not knowing who contributed what, St Basil returned each person their valuables by having them baked into a huge ‘pita.’ After the Divine Liturgy, he blessed the pita, and each person’s slice miraculously contained the money or jewels they had contributed.1
The 2024 Vasilopita succeeded. People networked. Old friendships were rekindled. No one asked for donations. Everyone just enjoyed being together in the New Year.
Photo 1- Speakers Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor at the Consulate General of Greece in New York; President Stella Kokolis, Rev. Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Assistant Director, Department of Greek Education Database Administrator, Department of Information Technology; Rev. Gerasimos Ballas, Sts. Constantine and Helen Church and Director of the Hellenic Cultural Center Director Alexandros.
Photo 2- 2024 Vasilopita
Photo3 – Panagiotis Theologitis of St. Demetrios H.S. in Astoria was honored scholar.
“Those who educate children well are more to be honored than they who produce them; for these only gave them life, those the art of living well.”1 – Aristotle.
Educator, founder of societies to promote education, political activist, supporter of the Greek Orthodox Church, she is a 2023 legend. Generous, always helping all persons and causes, the educator is there for everyone. She has never wavered in her support of Greek language, culture, and Greek Orthodoxy. Always a supporter of Hermes Expo International, a leading Trade Show and Exhibition, she has brought Greek Americans in buses, paying for all expenses. Mrs. Stella Kokolis of Brooklyn and Southampton, New York is an admirable person, recognized by the Greek government for her unique efforts in promoting Hellenism overseas.
Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (left to right), Dr. George Tsioulias, Mrs. Stella Kokolis, and Dr. George Liakeas., Conference, Astoria, 2019
Stella Kokolis has used heart in all of instruction since the late 1960’s her unique education experience from New York City, America and global community was celebrated October 14th, 2012, at the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Hellenic News of America (HNA) newspaper at the Concordville Inn-Best Western Hotel & Conference Center in Concordville, Pennsylvania. A packed audience attended from states on the northeastern seaboard. Stella Kokolis is recognized locally, nationally, and internationally as a prominent community leader, educator, and humanitarian. She has received numerous awards for her professional, charitable, and political work by major organizations and political leaders both in the United States and abroad.
Leonidas P. Raptakis, Senator from Rhode Island, with Mrs. Kokolis, January conference 2023.
Mrs. Kokolis is president of the President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America. She was the co-founder and former president of the Prometheus Greek Teachers Association. In 2009, the educator was named “Greek Teacher of the Year 2009” by The National Herald newspaper in New York. Senator Marty Golden honored Mrs. Kokolis, for her work as educator, founder, and President of the Hellenic American Teachers Federation. She was a former member of Community Board 10, representing Central Harlem in New York City.
Prominent NYC Greek Consulate, religious and education leaders, January 2023.
Ms. Vasiliki (Vasia) Filiotis, President of the Hellenic Paideia of America said “Mrs. Kokolis expanded the growth of the Greek language, culture, and religion internationally. We wish her good health and strength to continue her exceptional work. She has been given the distinct honor as ‘Mother of the Hellenic Education in America.’ Axia! (Worthy!).
The late Mr. Theodore Spyropoulos in a letter congratulated “Mrs. Kokolis for her political activism in forming the Federation of Hellenic American Teachers. Her voice is forceful in saving educators without pensions and medical benefits. The Federation of Hellenic American Educators under the auspices of SAE-USA (World Council For Hellenes Abroad) Region and the Greek Embassy in Washington, D.C. presented the annual events of Greek Culture and Education” at the Capitol, in Washington, D.D. because of Mrs. Kokolis.
Mr. Timoleon Kokkinos, co-founder of the Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” said “Mrs. Stella Kokolis is perpetuating the Hellenic language and culture among our grade school and college students. She is teaching, reaching out and motivating Greek American children, as one who understands the school systems they attend, their culture, traditions, and habits.” In addition, she has acted as a community liaison with Parents and families in inspiring youth to learn Greek language and culture. Mrs. Kokolis has sponsored scholarships, culture activities such as theater, dance, music, and visits to Greece to help Greek students retain their Greek heritage.
Mrs. Kokolis with Mrs. Vasiliki Filiotis, main collaborator of her education events.
A historic zoom program encompassing Greek education and culture from five continents was presented May 8t afternoon for four hours, uninterrupted. Once in a lifetime Greek educator banded together to show ancient Greek, Byzantine, and modern Greek heritage to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Greece’s Independence in 1821. The Federation of Greek Teachers of America, Office of Greek Education of the Holy Archdiocese of America, and other organizations on Saturday, May 8th Presented a program entitled on the afternoon of Saturday, May 8, 2021.
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Dr. John G. Siolas said, “I have worked with Mrs. Kokolis since the 1970’s. She is an exceptionally kind person without a mean bone in her body. No one can ever stay angry with Mrs. Kokolis. She is a great compromiser, negotiating and settling education disagreements. Her generosity is legendary. When someone needs funding for a project or a scholarship for a student, Mrs. Kokolis gives money from her own pocket. Her pleasant smile, enthusiasm and sincerity are unique. The educator is one of the giants of our time in the field of bilingual education of the global community. She is a role model for all to follow.”
The President of the Federation of Greek Teachers of America, Stella Kokolis, was honored by the Secretary-General for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, John Chrysoulakis, on behalf of the General Secretariat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for her invaluable contribution to the Greek language education and Greek Hellenism, awarding her the Hellenic American Women’s Council (HAWC) award, in the context of a conference organized by the HAWC in Spetses for the 200 years since the beginning of the Independence Struggle.
In his speech, which took place at the Anargyreio and Korgialenio School of Spetses, General Secretary Chrysoulakis described as “commendable and invaluable” the work of Stella Kokolis, as well as “substantial and active” the role she has played in the events of Greek language education in the USA “without deviating even for a moment from the fundamental principles of the Greek tradition, which she followed throughout her course as a teacher”.
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Consul General Boura, Mrs. Kokolis and His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios , 2008
Mr. Haviaras, Mrs. Kokolis with Mrs. Vasiliki Filiotis..
An honorary virtual event held in memory of Ioannis Giannopoulos, an Arcadian of the Peloponnese and founder of the first Greek school in America, was held on Sunday, March 13th. 2021 at 1 pm. The Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America sponsored the event to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence. Mrs. Stella Kokolis President of Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, galvanized Greeks internationally to create this unique memorial in St. Augustine, Florida.
The unveiling of the John Giannopoulos (Juan Genopoly) bust took place in the Garden of Educators, St. Augustine, Florida on Saturday, March 7th, 2020. Greek sculptor Dimitris Talaganis from Arcadia, Peloponnese, created the work of art. Over two hundred people were present. Mrs. Stella Kokolis has worked on this exceptional project for three years with the assistance of the Federation of Hellenic-American Educators, Pan Arcadian Association with chapter Geros Tou Morea chapter of New York and donors from across the United States. Ms. Elaine Fraser, CEO, and owner of the “Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse,” was moved with tears by this historic event. Her grandfather, the former late Senator Walter B. Fraser, who was also Mayor of St. Augustine, Florida, labored to preserve the ‘Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse” and archaeological sites in St. Augustine.
An honorary virtual event held in memory of Ioannis Giannopoulos, an Arcadian of the Peloponnese and founder of the first Greek school in America, was held on Sunday, March 13th. 2021 at 1 pm. The Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America sponsored the event to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of Greek Independence. Mrs. Stella Kokolis President of Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, galvanized Greeks internationally to create this unique memorial in St. Augustine, Florida. Mrs. Meropi Kyriakou, President of Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” was moderator of a program with clergy, international leaders, and educators.
Mrs. Stella Kokolis explained he was a “young man who came to this great country in the late years of 17th hundreds and his first thought was to build a school. This school is the only wooden school in the U.S.A that is still in existence.”
2023 marks the return of socializing in life. Seeing being, exchanging ideas made the education event held by three Greek education societies. Mrs. Stella Kokolis President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America, President Vasiliki Filiotis of the Hellenic Paideia of America and President Meropi Kyriakou of Greek Teachers Association “Prometheus” held a book, awards presentation and dinner on Sunday afternoon, March 12th at Terrace of the Park Landmark, Flushing Meadows, NY. Greek Revolution hero “James Williams” book was presented by zoom from Greece by Dr. K, Rethemniotakis. The event was free. Greece’s Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs granted awards to outstanding Greek Americans. They were recognized and honored by Deputy Minister of Education and Religious Affairs Zeta Makris for their unique contribution to Greek language and culture and transmission of the Greek Orthodox tradition in America. They were recognized in a virtual presentation on February 12, 2023. These awards were given in person on March 12th.
“Let us reflect on the admirable work that the teachers have devoted to their students through the decades,” she said. “With courage and perseverance, let us continue to kindle the light of Hellenic education. I commend His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros for his education budget. He is one of the finest intellectuals of our time. For over 50 years, I have funded books, seminars events on Greek Language and culture with Hellenic Paideia President Filiotis and network. Honoree Dr. John G. Siolas has been working with me on education projects for 50 years till 2023.” Mrs. Stella Kokolis is one of a kind. We are all fortunate we have had 50 years of her dedicated education work in the United States and globally.
What do I remember about a vacation? Breakfast in a hotel. The Anaktorikon Boutique Hotel in the Provincial city of Tripolis, Greece makes it a home cooked cuisine experience. The owner Alexandros and his gracious staff take personal interest in creating deserts on the premises. They listen to the comments of the vacationers. They go beyond the degree of hospitality to please everyone. I haven’t seen such graciousness anywhere. In provincial cities, the hotels want everyone to give them positive recommendations.
Breakfast
The hotels in Tripoli are all excellent. The Anaktorikon Hotel site says: “If you are going on a business trip, the comfortable and discreet spaces of the Anaktorikon Boutique Hotel are ideal for resting after your demanding schedule. … Especially if you are traveling with children, the Palace Boutique Hotel will be an amazing memory of luxury and fairytale stay, as even the building looks like it was taken from the pages of a book!”
I enjoyed the Ravani made with yogurt. Their Ravani was different from mine with 6 eggs. They use 2 eggs, Try this recipe and modify egg amounts.
Ravani
350gr / 2 cups fine semolina flour
150gr / 1 ¼ cup plain flour
150gr / ⅔ cup butter at room temperature
170gr / ¾ cup sugar
4 eggs
200gr / ¾ cup yogurt
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
lemon zest
Syrup Ingredients
750ml / 3 cups water
720gr / 3 ½ cups sugar
½ lemon
Instructions
For the syrup, add water and sugar to a pot with lemon. When the water starts boiling, boil for 1 minute then turn off the heat and set aside to cool down.
Add the sugar and butter to a big bowl. beat
Add the eggs yogurt, lemon zest and vanilla extract to a bowl.
mix the flour, semolina flour, baking soda and baking powder. Add.
Spread the batter in an ovenproof dish of your liking. Bake for 45 minutes in a preheated oven to 180°C/350°F.
When you take out the ravani, pour the syrup while it’s still hot. Leave the cake.
“Our hotel is located in the historic center of Tripoli, just opposite the Town Hall, in the main street of the city,” said the hotel website. The Anaktorikon Hotel is an architectural emblem of Tripoli, a true gem with elegant, upscale luxury. For more information on recipes and the hotel, visit https://www.anaktorikon.gr/en/
Greece 2024 has a middle class work force with persons having multiple jobs. Everything has changed. Today’s Greek businesspersonhas 2-3 jobs, working more than five days.
Kostas Makarounis of Tripolis, Arcadia, a provincial city in the Peloponnese is an energetic radio announcer/personality. He works public radio Tripolis 91.5; Lotto Agency at Malliris-Makarounis and Daily New Arcadian News. He is seen on multiple internet sites announcing the news.
Lotto business
Lotto store
His Lotto business is thriving. “One of my customers won 10,000 euros,” he said. He is a father of two sons with a businessperson wife. His parents Panagiota “Pitsa” Gerou Makarounis, a retired educator and Christos, retired municipal worker, are supportive of his professionalism. From information I gathered this past summer, it is harder for youth to acquire the pensions of their parents. The stereotype of modern Greeks taking naps and not working hard is false. Life is difficult. Parents and grandparents support their youth.
Kostas (center) with Dr. John G. Siolas (left) and Pitsa Gerou Makarounis (left) Soccer is the national sport of Greece. Kosta covers multiple soccer events, meeting with soccer personalities. Visit his bilingual site at https://www.facebook.com/kostas.makarounis
Mr. & Mrs. Kosta Makarounis- facebook
Kosta has a second business operating a lotto business. One of his clients won 10,000 euros ($10,300 approximate).
I was mesmerized by my vivacious grandmother, a 5 foot 4 inches brunette with olive complexion and blue eyes as light as the Aegean Sea. She was different from the other Greek Yiayias (grandmothers). She was an independent, businesswoman, with cosmopolitan clothes, She played rebetica, told fortunes by reading cards and from Greek coffee. “I am different,” she would say. “I am a Chiotisa/Mikrasiatisa. We had homes in Kato Panagia and a summer home.”
“My father and brothers were sea captains with their own boats,” she explained. “My brothers were all over six feet tall with black hair and black mustaches. They were involved in trading cottons and Turkish goods from Asia Minor to Chios. They would breach the blockade of the French and English against the Ottoman Turks to transport goods to Greece. All the trading was accomplished at night. In addition, they were involved in fishing in the best parts of Asia Minor. During one night of running the blockade, my 16 year old brother was killed by the European powers. My Mother never got over this and died young, leaving me an orphan to be raised by my sister, Maria Loura.” These were my Greek roots: a turbulent past, full of excitement and drama.
Because of the betrayal of the Greek armed forces that resulted in the Asia Minor Catastrophe, our family distrusted the government of their origin. All their patritotism manifested itself in perpetuating Greek Orthodoxy, building churches and Greek schools in New York City and Long Island.
His mother, Amalia (Emily) Markotsis Antokas said “we were the educated, merchant class that lived on the coast, not the inland farmers. The first
wedding I went to when I immigrated to the U.S. was Despina Pappas’s and Kostas Kazanas’ daughters weddings. Only patriotes who were relatives were invited. Our women were involved in weaving carpets and trapestries that were sold in Europe. The Tsemelites believed in helping people. My grandfather, Captain George Markotsis was a captain in a network of captains all related by blood. They transported products from Kato Panagia to Tseme. They didn’t live in Tseme. No one lived in Tseme City. They went there for schools, colleges, business and trade.” Their life was similar to ours in New York City of 2008. We work in New York City, but live in Astoria and Bayside in the borough of Queens.
Despina Pappas nephew, Panayiotis Markopoulos, explained that “everyone lived around the Chios City Fortress (Frourio) or Sinikismos. They were given houses during refugee influx of 1914. Our relatives did not want to be farmers. They wanted to go back to their ancestral homes in Kato Panagia. They stayed in the Fortress and watched their lands across the way in Turkey. There were great fishing spots in Turkey and not in Chios. My uncles were tough captains who sailed in all weather, never afraid of storms. Katopanagia was to Tseme what Bayside is to New York City. Our family and the Gagas family had winter homes in Kato Panagia. They all had second, summer homes in Erythrae. When I lived in Chios, I was a sailor in the Minoan Lines. The owner’s wife was my first cousin.”
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Official records were destroyed in the 1914 and 1922 persecutions of Asia Minor. My grandmother said she was born in the Greek island of Moschonisi, opposite the island of Mytilini (Lesvos). Her baptismal certificate showed she was baptized in 1898 in the Greek Archdiocese of Moschonisi to Panagiotis Gagas and Zafiria Brousaly. Her marriage certificate indicates that she married Christos Dimitris Papantonakis (Pappas when he immigrated through Elis Island customs) on August 15, 1917 by the monk Neofytos from the neighborhood of the Frourio (Fortress), one year after their expulsion from Tseme. These are the only documents that showed the history of Despina G. Pappas past.
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In 2008, we are now third and fourth generation Greek-Americans. Many are not Greek-Orthodox. Greek is no longer spoken in our homes. Our only link to being Greek is our name. I decided to retrace our roots in Turkey, beginning with my maternal grandmother, Despina Gagas Pappas (Papantonakis). Recently, through Sunset Tours of Chios and the guide Ali Papazoglou, we visited Kato Panagia and saw Greek stucco homes empty since 1922. They are now properties of the Turkish government. They show an air of once being aristocratic. The neighborhoods appeared like Southampton, Greenport and Mattituck, Long Island. Fertile rolling fields bordering the sea. We did not mingle with the community and stayed in the coach bus. When I returned to Chios City, Argyro of Sunset Tours, purchased the books Mika Asia Explorer and Stefanides Chios and Smyrni travel guide. In these Modern Greek books, I pieced together the rich history of the areas. In order to understand the truth, one must be knowledgeable in Modern Greek sources. There does not exist in English any in depth history of these communities and their life style.
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“”The beauty of Smyrna was not the houses or streets. The beauty of Smyrna was us, the Greeks, the Romans, the Smyrneoi….. The beauty of the Greeks was not the locations or the marbles. It was the bravery (Leventia) they had in their souls,” said author Angela Papazoglou. Tseme was a province in the state of Smyrna. The municipality of Tseme had komopoli (small cities) such as Kato Panagia. Erythrae was a town. Today, Tseme is known as Cesme Belediyesi, an important seaport and vacation spot in Turkey. Tseme means Krini in Greek and fountain in English. It was a city of fountains. Tseme has daily departures from Chios. It has a medieval fortress. A declining tourism is causing a crisis in the economy.
Erythrae is a peninsula opposite Chios. It is part of the state of Smyrna. It has an excellent highway system that travels north to South and west to Smyrna. When the Hellenic communities existed one hundred years ago, the population was numerous, making its towns such as Kato Panagia small cities. Prosperity and a high standard of living was the average life of a Greek family. The cultivation of masticha trees and growth of goat and sheep herding is encouraged by the government. Beautiful beaches, olive groves are present. It is no longer a major player in international trade or as a strong national mercantile power, as it was under the Hellenic communities. A predominant middle class that supports a fine quality of life is non-existent.
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In ancient times, the capital of the peninsula was Erythrae. The first name given to the area was Perama by Chios. In the 14th century, it came into the hands of the Genoese. Under the Ottoman occupation, it became known as Tseme. After 1774, the Greek population increased. Persecutions by Turkish Albanians on the Greek mainland forced Greeks from the Peloponnese and other parts of Greece to settle in Tseme province. The Erythraeans asked and created a new archdiocese in Western Erythrae with headquarters in Tseme. The efforts for the creation of the Dioceses of Krinis and Erythraeas were accomplished by Gregory the 5th, Patriarch of Constantinople and the Metropolitan of Ephesus, Dionisios Kalliarhis in the late 18th century. These two church leaders played a historic role in having western Erythrae become a part of the Metropolis of Ephesus, as it was in the early Christian period. After 1821, displaced Moslems from the Peloponnese immigrated to Tseme.
The mercantile fleet of Tseme played a major role in the export and import life of the Ottoman Turks. The grapes of Erythrae were exported. The symbol of Tseme then and now is the medieval fortress, known as Cesme Kalesi Ve Muzesi, which has an archaeological museum. It was built in the 14th century by the Genoese, who also controlled Chios. The museum has archeological finds from Erythrae as well as artifacts from shipwrecks of the 1770 battle of Tseme. St. Charalambos, the metropolitan cathedral, was used as horse stables after the 1922 Catastrophe. Today, it is a civic center used for holidays and theatrical productions. St. Charalambos Cathedral was the place of worship of 10,000 Greeks prior to the first expulsion of 1914.
Tseme Cesme
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After the 1774 naval battle of Tseme of the Russo-Turkish War, the Greek population increased. The first immigration wave was from Crete, Peloponnese, Evia, Chios and Psara. Eighty percent of the population of Tseme after 1774 was Greek. The agricultural industry centered in vineyards, weaving, in particular rugs, olive groves, flowers and anise seed. The grapes of Erythrea were exported to Marseilles, France and Odessa, Russia. In the beginning of the 20th century, the demand for grapes declined, resulting in a switch to the cultivation of tobacco and wheat. The Greek immigration overseas began to Egypt, America and other areas of Asia Minor.
In addition to the Churches of St. Charalambos and Panagia tis Psarianis, the three other Greek churches were the Assumption, St. Panteleimon and St. Fotini. The city’s outskirts had 34 country chapels and two monasteries. The Tsemelites had a deep love for education, a trait mark of a middleclass society. In 1879, they established the “Krinaia Scholi” that first acted as a boy’s school. Later a girl’s school, kindergarten, elementary and high school was established. Societies and clubs were organized to concern itself with all issues related to promoting the quality of life in Tseme. By the beginning of the 20th century, the population reached ten thousand persons. The diocese of Krinis became the Metropolis of Krinis and Erythraeas from 1902-1922 with its headquarters in Tseme City. The Metropolis had a population of sixty thousand persons.
The beginning of the end began in 1914 with tension in Greek-Turkish relations. This was “O Megalos Diogmos” (The Great Persecution) that changed Greece forever. The Metropolis, according to Stefano Stefanides, “was orphaned. Many Tsemelites met their death and began the road of the refugee.” They returned in 1919 with the Greek army during the invasion of Asia Minor. By 1921, the Metropolis numbered ten thousand persons. In 1922, the survivors of the “Catastrophe” settled in Chios, Evia, Attica, Peloponnese, Thessaloniki and Kavala.
The loss of their Cathedral of St. Charalambos remained as a sorrow in the hearts of the refugees. In the 1970’s a replica was built in Chios by descendants of the refugees. Despina Pappas, at the time of her death in 1971, raised funds in Astoria, New York, for the St. Charalambos church rebuilding project. St. Charalambos in Tseme was built in the 18th century. In 1821, the church was blown up with all the parishioners in it by the Turkish military forces on their way to fortify Chios. Ten years later, only the ruins of St. Charalambos existed. Kapetan Nikolis, an excellent sea man, who commanded the respect of all including the Turks, went to Constantinople for a unique purpose: rebuild the Greek Orthodox churches of Tseme and Alatsata. He received a sultan’s decree from Kapoudan Pasha, Turkish Admiral and Governor of Erythrae and the Aegean Islands, for the rebuilding of small churches. Through intelligence and cunning, Kapetan Nikoli, was able to supercede the original small church designation. St. Charalambos was constructed to hold three thousand parishioners under a sultan’s decree.
Greek homes of KatoPangia
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Kato Panagia, modern Tsiftlik, has a second part of the city known as Pano (Upper) Kato Panagia behind the tourist houses. Beautiful beaches with a clear view of Chios can be seen. The town is located on the northern part of the Argenos peninsula known as Ak Burnu (Asprokabos in Greek). Stefanides states emphatically that the “sailors of Kato Panagia were famous mariners. They knew the straits of Chios. Few could compete with their knowledge of the seas. The women of Kato Panagia (Katopanagiousines) were famous in the vicinity of the Erythrae peninsula and Chios. They were known for their sweet words and housekeeping skills.”
Kato Panagia was a totally Greek settlement in the 1900’s with six thousand persons. The inhabitants were from Evia, Crete, the Dodecanese, Chios, Peloponnese and Thessaly. By 1921, there were only three thousand inhabitants, because of the “1914 Persecution”. The community had three churches dedicated to the Kimisis Tis Theotokou, St. Demetrios and St. Nicholas. The graveyard has a church called St. John the Baptist. During the 1900’s, the community had a boy’s and girl’s school. Its boundaries were that of a small city. Modern day Ciftlik does not resemble the same settlement of a prior century.
The main occupation was maritime. The Captains of Kato Panagia had a fleet of 30-40 sailing vessels that fished in the finest areas of the Aegean along the coast of western Asia Minor. They were excellent agrarians. According to Stefanides, “they worked as blacksmiths, silk industry workers, weavers, grocers, shoemakers, and small businessmen. After the 1922 disaster, the refugees settled in Kato Panagia of Ilias, Chios and Athens area. They continued working in the maritime trades. Their descendants own Minoan Lines that keep alive a synthesis of Chian and Erithraean seamanship.”
Few of the original Greek homes of Kato Panagia exist today. The Turkish construction industry and vacation building groups destroyed old homes. Affordable vacation housing for Turks and tourists were build. Stefanides claims, “if one rides around the neighborhood, one can see old regal homes, crosses over the doors, wooden marble columns and wooded windows that decorated Roman (as Greeks were known) homes.”
Their summer home residences were in Erythrae, modern day Ildir. It was known as Lithri in Byzantine times and was a small village. It has Byzantine and Greek ruins. The Greek history of the village appeared finished in the 13th century, when the diocese of Erythrae was transferred to Tseme. From the 17th century, the village was reestablished. In the 1900’s, there were 1535 persons. In 1921, one year before the Asia Minor catastrophe, the villagers numbered 1800 persons. The ethnic composition was Greek Erythraean, immigrants from Chios and Crete. Their church of Agios Charalambos is high on a hill next to the archaeological site of Erythrae. The 17th century church of Agia Matrona is on a nearby peak. “A boy’s school of 60 students and girl’s school of forty students operated in the town,” said Stefanides. “The merchant community of Lithri sent their best students overseas for advanced studies in Marseilles and Praque. The villagers were wealthy and had the means to send their youth overseas for study. They had many country chapels in the farm fields, where they cultivated cotton, wheat and tobacco, flowers, almond and olive trees, grape vineyards, ceramics and fishing industries. Their descendants are in Chios, Oinousses and Nea Erythrae in Attica.” The point that must be stressed is that the Aegean islanders had a constant movement of habitation and trade with Asia Minor. They built colonies and lived there for work purposes. They returned to their islands when work terminated.
A significant space is dedicated from the ancient city of Erythrae in the Izmir archaeological Museum. Findings from recent excavations include pottery, small offerings in bronze and ivory from 670-545 B.C. The ivory statues are of Cretan and Rhodian style. A Korean sculpture was found. It is one of the first examples of a large marble sculpture from Ancient times. Pausanias said Erythrae was built by Cretans and inhabited by Lycians, Carians and Pamphylians. The city was destroyed by the Persians after the mid 6th century B.C. It was ruled from 9th century B.C. by Athens. Graffiti on a bowl is from 6th century B.C. indicate the offerings belonged to the Temple of Athena Polis. The small lion figurines in bronze are from the first half of 6th century B.C.. They resemble the large Lion statue from Bayindir that is in the Stoneworks Museum of Izmir. The small findings are the earliest Ionian examples of a lion type, that served as models for Etruscan artists (early Italians). The artifacts are from a trench on top of the Erythrae Acropolis.
Herodotus states in his History that “the Temple of Athena Polias at Erythrae was famous in the ancient world for their legendary priestesses known as the Sibyls. “ According to Greek and Roman mythology, they were women bestowed with prophetic powers by the God Apollo. The Erythaean Sibyl was painted by Michaelangelo from 1508-12 in a fresco from the Sistine chapel, Vatican. The famous Sibyls were the Erythraean and the Cumaean Sibyl who presided over the Apollonian oracle at Cumae, a Greek colony located near Naples, Italy. The Erythraean Sibyl sold the Sibylline books to Tarquin, the last King of Rome, that were housed in the Temple of Jupiter on Capitoline Hill in Rome.
Greek civilization began in Asia Minor and spread west to mainland Greece and Italy. The Asia Minor refugees carried the burden of being “persons without a country.” Giorgos Seferis’ poetry reveals their pathos. A renewed interest in the past will surface more accomplishments of the Hellenic communities of Tseme province.
Escaping to the country during the holidays is a treat. The North Fork Country Club, Cutchogue, New York was in full holiday bloom. Christmas trees, Marines, and hanging crystal streamers decorated the holes trees and hanging crystal streamers decorated the rooms.
Barbara, Erica, and Andy Stype hosted a holiday luncheon. The view was the golf course. Impressive. The food was great. Multiple Christmas trees and decorations made the visitor feel they were in a wonderland. Enjoying the country and low key life of rural America is a special holiday experience.
Sybils, prophetists of ancient world from Erythraia
I decided to retrace our roots in Turkey, beginning with my maternal grandmother, Despina Gagas Pappas (Papantonakis). Recently, through Sunset Tours of Chios and the guide Ali Papazoglou, we visited Kato Panagia and saw Greek stucco homes empty since 1922. They are now properties of the Turkish government. They show an air of once being aristocratic. The neighborhoods appeared like Southampton, Greenport and Mattituck, Long Island. Fertile rolling fields bordering the sea. We did not mingle with the community and stayed in the coach bus. When I returned to Chios City, Argyro of Sunset Tours, purchased the books Mika Asia Explorer and Stefanides Chios and Smyrni travel guide. In these Modern Greek books, I pieced together the rich history of the areas. In order to understand the truth, one must be knowledgeable in Modern Greek sources. There does not exist in English any in depth history of these communities and their life style.
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Izmir Museum, from Erythraia
Tseme was a province in the state of Smyrna. The municipality of Tseme had komopoli (small cities) such as Kato Panagia. Erythrae was a town. Today, Tseme is known as Cesme Belediyesi, an important seaport and vacation spot in Turkey. Tseme means Krini in Greek and fountain in English. It was a city of fountains. Tseme has daily departures from Chios. It has a medieval fortress. A declining tourism is causing a crisis in the economy.
Erythrae is a peninsula opposite Chios. It is part of the state of Smyrna. It has an excellent highway system that travels north to South and west to Smyrna. When the Hellenic communities existed one hundred years ago, the population was numerous, making its towns such as Kato Panagia small cities. Prosperity and a high standard of living was the average life of a Greek family. The cultivation of masticha trees and growth of goat and sheep herding is encouraged by the government. Beautiful beaches, olive groves are present. It is no longer a major player in international trade or as a strong national mercantile power, as it was under the Hellenic communities. A predominant middle class that supports a fine quality of life is non-existent.
In ancient times, the capital of the peninsula was Erythrae. The first name given to the area was Perama by Chios. In the 14th century, it came into the hands of the Genoese. Under the Ottoman occupation, it became known as Tseme. After 1774, the Greek population increased. Persecutions by Turkish Albanians on the Greek mainland forced Greeks from the Peloponnese and other parts of Greece to settle in Tseme province. The Erythraeans asked and created a new archdiocese in Western Erythrae with headquarters in Tseme. The efforts for the creation of the Dioceses of Krinis and Erythraeas were accomplished by Gregory the 5th, Patriarch of Constantinople and the Metropolitan of Ephesus, Dionisios Kalliarhis in the late 18th century. These two church leaders played a historic role in having western Erythrae become a part of the Metropolis of Ephesus, as it was in the early Christian period. After 1821, displaced Moslems from the Peloponnese immigrated to Tseme.
The mercantile fleet of Tseme played a major role in the export and import life of the Ottoman Turks. The grapes of Erythrae were exported. The symbol of Tseme then and now is the medieval fortress, known as Cesme Kalesi Ve Muzesi, which has an archaeological museum. It was built in the 14th century by the Genoese, who also controlled Chios. The museum has archeological finds from Erythrae as well as artifacts from shipwrecks of the 1770 battle of Tseme. St. Charalambos, the metropolitan cathedral, was used as horse stables after the 1922 Catastrophe. Today, it is a civic center used for holidays and theatrical productions. St. Charalambos Cathedral was the place of worship of 10,000 Greeks prior to the first expulsion of 1914.
After the 1774 naval battle of Tseme of the Russo-Turkish War, the Greek population increased. The first immigration wave was from Crete, Peloponnese, Evia, Chios and Psara. Eighty percent of the population of Tseme after 1774 was Greek. The agricultural industry centered in vineyards, weaving, in particular rugs, olive groves, flowers and anise seed. The grapes of Erythrea were exported to Marseilles, France and Odessa, Russia. In the beginning of the 20th century, the demand for grapes declined, resulting in a switch to the cultivation of tobacco and wheat. The Greek immigration overseas began to Egypt, America and other areas of Asia Minor.
Grandparents Christos and Despina Pappas (Papantonakis)
In addition to the Churches of St. Charalambos and Panagia tis Psarianis, the three other Greek churches were the Assumption, St. Panteleimon and St. Fotini. The city’s outskirts had 34 country chapels and two monasteries. The Tsemelites had a deep love for education, a trait mark of a middleclass society. In 1879, they established the “Krinaia Scholi” that first acted as a boy’s school. Later a girl’s school, kindergarten, elementary and high school was established. Societies and clubs were organized to concern itself with all issues related to promoting the quality of life in Tseme. By the beginning of the 20th century, the population reached ten thousand persons. The diocese of Krinis became the Metropolis of Krinis and Erythraeas from 1902-1922 with its headquarters in Tseme City. The Metropolis had a population of sixty thousand persons.
Grandmother Despina Gagas Pappas baptismal certificate from the Diocese of Mosconisi
The beginning of the end began in 1914 with tension in Greek-Turkish relations. The Metropolis, according to Stefano Stefanides, “was orphaned. Many Tsemelites met their death and began the road of the refugee.” They returned in 1919 with the Greek army during the invasion of Asia Minor. By 1921, the Metropolis numbered ten thousand persons. In 1922, the survivors of the “Catastrophe” settled in Chios, Evia, Attica, Peloponnese, Thessaloniki and Kavala.
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The loss of their Cathedral of St. Charalambos remained as a sorrow in the hearts of the refugees. In the 1970’s a replica was built in Chios by descendants of the refugees. Despina Pappas, at the time of her death in 1971, raised funds in Astoria, New York, for the St. Charalambos church rebuilding project. St. Charalambos in Tseme was built in the 18th century. In 1821, the church was blown up with all the parishioners in it by the Turkish military forces on their way to fortify Chios. Ten years later, only the ruins of St. Charalambos existed. Kapetan Nikolis, an excellent sea man, who commanded the respect of all including the Turks, went to Constantinople for a unique purpose: rebuild the Greek Orthodox churches of Tseme and Alatsata. He received a sultan’s decree from Kapoudan Pasha, Turkish Admiral and Governor of Erythrae and the Aegean Islands, for the rebuilding of small churches. Through intelligence and cunning, Kapetan Nikoli, was able to supercede the original small church designation. St. Charalambos was constructed to hold three thousand parishioners under a sultan’s decree.
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Kato Panagia, modern Tsiftlik, has a second part of the city known as Pano (Upper) Kato Panagia behind the tourist houses. Beautiful beaches with a clear view of Chios can be seen. The town is located on the northern part of the Argenos peninsula known as Ak Burnu (Asprokabos in Greek). Stefanides states emphatically that the “sailors of Kato Panagia were famous mariners. They knew the straits of Chios. Few could compete with their knowledge of the seas. The women of Kato Panagia (Katopanagiousines) were famous in the vicinity of the Erythrae peninsula and Chios. They were known for their sweet words and housekeeping skills.”
Kato Panagia was a totally Greek settlement in the 1900’s with six thousand persons. The inhabitants were from Evia, Crete, the Dodecanese, Chios, Peloponnese and Thessaly. By 1921, there were only three thousand inhabitants, because of the “1914 Persecution”. The community had three churches dedicated to the Kimisis Tis Theotokou, St. Demetrios and St. Nicholas. The graveyard has a church called St. John the Baptist. During the 1900’s, the community had a boy’s and girl’s school. Its boundaries were that of a small city. Modern day Ciftlik does not resemble the same settlement of a prior century.
Chris and Despina Pappas marriage certificate n1915
The main occupation was maritime. The Captains of Kato Panagia had a fleet of 30-40 sailing vessels that fished in the finest areas of the Aegean along the coast of western Asia Minor. They were excellent agrarians. According to Stefanides, “they worked as blacksmiths, silk industry workers, weavers, grocers, shoemakers, and small businessmen. After the 1922 disaster, the refugees settled in Kato Panagia of Ilias, Chios and Athens area. They continued working in the maritime trades. Their descendants own Minoan Lines that keep alive a synthesis of Chian and Erithraean seamanship.”
Few of the original Greek homes of Kato Panagia exist today. The Turkish construction industry and vacation building groups destroyed old homes. Affordable vacation housing for Turks and tourists were build. Stefanides claims, “if one rides around the neighborhood, one can see old regal homes, crosses over the doors, wooden marble columns and wooded windows that decorated Roman (as Greeks were known) homes.”
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Greek homes of KatoPanagia
Their summer home residences were in Erythrae, modern day Ildir. It was known as Lithri in Byzantine times and was a small village. It has Byzantine and Greek ruins. The Greek history of the village appeared finished in the 13th century, when the diocese of Erythrae was transferred to Tseme. From the 17th century, the village was reestablished. In the 1900’s, there were 1535 persons. In 1921, one year before the Asia Minor catastrophe, the villagers numbered 1800 persons. The ethnic composition was Greek Erythraean, immigrants from Chios and Crete. Their church of Agios Charalambos is high on a hill next to the archaeological site of Erythrae. The 17th century church of Agia Matrona is on a nearby peak. “A boy’s school of 60 students and girl’s school of forty students operated in the town,” said Stefanides. “The merchant community of Lithri sent their best students overseas for advanced studies in Marseilles and Praque. The villagers were wealthy and had the means to send their youth overseas for study. They had many country chapels in the farm fields, where they cultivated cotton, wheat and tobacco, flowers, almond and olive trees, grape vineyards, ceramics and fishing industries. Their descendants are in Chios, Oinousses and Nea Erythrae in Attica.” The point that must be stressed is that the Aegean islanders had a constant movement of habitation and trade with Asia Minor. They built colonies and lived there for work purposes. They returned to their islands when work terminated.
A significant space is dedicated from the ancient city of Erythrae in the Izmir archaeological Museum. Findings from recent excavations include pottery, small offerings in bronze and ivory from 670-545 B.C. The ivory statues are of Cretan and Rhodian style. A Korean sculpture was found. It is one of the first examples of a large marble sculpture from Ancient times. Pausanias said Erythrae was built by Cretans and inhabited by Lycians, Carians and Pamphylians. The city was destroyed by the Persians after the mid 6th century B.C. It was ruled from 9th century B.C. by Athens. Graffiti on a bowl is from 6th century B.C. indicate the offerings belonged to the Temple of Athena Polis. The small lion figurines in bronze are from the first half of 6th century B.C.. They resemble the large Lion statue from Bayindir that is in the Stoneworks Museum of Izmir. The small findings are the earliest Ionian examples of a lion type, that served as models for Etruscan artists (early Italians). The artifacts are from a trench on top of the Erythrae Acropolis.
Herodotus states in his History that “the Temple of Athena Polias at Erythrae was famous in the ancient world for their legendary priestesses known as the Sibyls. “ According to Greek and Roman mythology, they were women bestowed with prophetic powers by the God Apollo. The Erythaean Sibyl was painted by Michaelangelo from 1508-12 in a fresco from the Sistine chapel, Vatican. The famous Sibyls were the Erythraean and the Cumaean Sibyl who presided over the Apollonian oracle at Cumae, a Greek colony located near Naples, Italy. The Erythraean Sibyl sold the Sibylline books to Tarquin, the last King of Rome, that were housed in the Temple of Jupiter on Capitoline Hill in Rome.
A renewed interest in the past will surface more accomplishments of the Hellenic communities of Tseme province.
The joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you, – John Greenleaf Whittier1
Customers were greeted warmly during the holiday season with a treat, hugs, and a holiday treat. John Vouvoudakis, owner of Townhouse Diner for 30 years, practices holiday generosity. “I want to be anonymous,” he said. “All I do is work. My Diner is my world. I am from the norther villages of Chios. We emigrated and settled in Whitestone, NY.
The Townhouse Diner is located at 696 2nd Ave. on the east side of New York City. “I know my customers by their first names,” he said. “I serve American and Greek cuisine.” A young man with special needs walked into his diner. John gave him a treat. He hugged an African American man, who is a regular customer, giving him a treat. Caring for young and old is part of John’s hospitality. He gives happiness to any stranger who comes. The Townhouse Diner gives hospitality to the neighborhood during the holiday season.
Father Vasilios Govits, founder of All Saints Monastery, Calverton, NY and former priest of Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, Mattituck, NY. passed away.
His funeral was held on Thursday, December 15th, at All Saints Greek Orthodox Monastery in Calverton, NY. He served as priest of the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church from 1996-1999. He previously served at the Port Jefferson Assumption Church before beginning his ministry in Mattituck. He officially retired on June 1, 1999. He went on to establish the All Saints Monastery in Calverton. His wife Christina was by his side, helping him in his ministry. On November 1, 2003, All Saints Greek Orthodox Monastery Stone Setting historic event enhanced Greek Orthodox presence in Eastern Long Island, N.Y. His ministry shaped Greek Orthodox Christianity in Eastern Long Island.
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November 1, 2003, All Saints Greek Orthodox Monastery Stone Setting historic event enhancing Greek Orthodox presence through Father Govits’ ministry. Photo by Catherine Tsounis
Where can New Yorkers visit a Pony Farm? The Little Red Barn at 353 Manor Lane, Jamesport, Long Island is a private North Fork farm where kids can enjoy ponies and farm animals. My attorney Frank Blangiardo of Blangiardo & Blangiardo law firm described a magical escape operated by his wife, Kate Nickles.
“What makes me happy? Being right here,” said Kate Nickles. “And I just love having the barn filled with children and just being out here with the horses and the animals. I’m living my dream right here…with my kids, my animals, my horses on this beautiful property.”1 The Little Red Barn was the carousel building in Greenport, L.I.
Make a reservation! Enjoy a trip close to nature and God.
Kate Nickles is the daughter of the late John Nickles Real Estate and political leader. Kate Nickles continues her late Father’s legacy of caring about the community through her unique pony/baby animal farm at “The Little Red Barn”. For more information, contact 631•566•1690, or kategnickles@gmail.com
In 2007, the Hellenic Times newspaper had its annual Gala. Despina Siolas, a medical student then, Mrs. Vasiliki Filiotis, This writer, Catherine Tsounis, and Mary and Jim Golding attended.
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St. Nicholas existed with historical proof. Internet articles try to claim he is a myth. Over 220 million Orthodox Christians believe in his existence. Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas” extraordinary generosity. St. Nicholas is not a legend, as AP News claims. Facts exist. Internet articles such as this must be examined carefully.1
St. Nicholas Shrine Church of Flushing. NY Vespers Feast Day was held on Tuesday evening, December 5th, 2023. New York clergy and residents attended. A reception followed in the Sarantakos Hall, The St. Nicholas Shrine Church clergy are Rev. Protopresbyter Paul Palesty and Rev. Presbyter Aristidis Garinis. The clergy, Parish council, Philoptohos and PTA are commended for an outstanding Feast Day Vespers and refreshments. The New York and New Jersey community participants saw many friends in a happy setting. Many saw acquaintances from the past, renewing old friendships. For information on the prominent clergy and community leaders who attended, contact https://www.facebook.com/stnicholasflushing.
Clergy of December 5th Vespers, St. Nicholas Shrine Church, Flushing.
The detailed investigation of the existence of St. Nicholas of Myra by international scientist Andreas George is the final word on the subject. “In the Footsteps of Saint Nicholas,” he details his existence. His scientific examination of sources and historical sites disproves the 1970’s action of the Vatican, demoting St. Nicholas as a major saint or characterization as a mythological figure. Mr. George’s says his goal is to “present reasonably, accurate historical information about his life. During my search for St. Nicholas, the bishop of Myra, who lived in the third-fourth centuries A.D., I tried to establish credibility in the face of conflicting information, distortion, and exaggeration.” The author visited places that influenced St. Nicholas’ character. His search through Greek documents in Byzantine Bari, Italy, Greece, Asia Minor and Cyprus reflects his scientific background for accuracy. He describes the evolution of St. Nicholas of Myra as Santa Claus, in its evolution in America, primarily in New York. His miracles are explained in detail. Relics of St. Nicholas were in several churches in New York.
Cantors at Vespers.
St. Nicholas’ ancestors were Greeks, descendants of Alexander the Great’s colonists or of Cretans. The author believes St. Nicholas’ ancestors were most likely from Crete, because of similar customs and traditions with the Greek island. Modern Greek sources on the Greek Cities of Asia Minor show that the Greek communities along the Asia Minor coast had up to 50 percent Cretans until the 1922 Catastrophe. Their dialect and customs were also similar to the Cretan culture. Mr. George’s research added information that St. Nicholas spent time in Cyprus through his visits to monasteries and study of Greek sources. His translations into English of these facts are invaluable to a serious reader. The author explains that the lack of written information on St. Nicholas comes from the following historical events: suppression of information by Julius the Apostate; destruction of church documents by the ninth century Iconoclastic movement, the Crusaders, Moslems, Arab pirates, and the Protestant Reformation.
I personally was fascinated by his portrayal of Bari, Italy as a Byzantine stronghold. In Modern Greek history books, the fall of Byzantine Bari to the Normans was a major catastrophe listed on every timeline. The relics of St. Nicholas were sent to Bari in the 11th century to save them from the Muslim invaders of Myra, Asia Minor. The history and the building of the Basilica of St. Nicholas of Bari give one a total view of this center of Byzantium in the west. The glory of Bari, unknown to many, makes chapter 6 and 7 of major interest to all whose ancestors were from this major trade center.
Relics of St. Nicholas
What did St. Nicholas look like? Unknown to many, the author describes the reconstruction of the saint’s bones in the 1950’s by Anatomy Professor L. Martino of the University of Bari and two doctors. Their scientific investigation showed the bones were of a man 1.67 meters (about five feet and six inches) tall with a broad forehead and large sunken eyes. This description is like the facial characteristics in Byzantine icons. Professor Martino explained the bones belonged to a Mediterranean, more likely a Greek from Asia Minor.2
Church of Saint Nicholas, Myra, Turkey, Wiki commons4
Mr. Andreas George is a scholar, having authored scientific papers on radioactivity and radiation exposure. His background as a scientific investigator and author makes this one of the finest books written on St. Nicholas of Myra. The book is available on Amazon.com.3 A movie about St. Nicholas will be produced in December 2024. Follow the page on https://www.facebook.com/NicholasOfMyraMovie?mibextid=LQQJ4d . St. Nicholas lives in the hearts of all. St. Nicholas Shrine Church attracts all people through the devotion of his memory.
The community joined together at Bayside Fields Flagpole to light the Christmas tree and Menorah, Saturday evening December 9th at 206 Street and 29th Avenue. A fun, free event that gave everyone smiles and laughter. Santa posed for photos with all ages. Free giveaways, a live DJ, free refreshments, and crafts were offered. The Marine Toys for Tots were donated by participants. The event was organized by the Northwest Bayside Civic Association (NBCA). A cooperation partnership with NBCA was with Common Point Queens Sam Field and Bay Terrace.
Lighting of Menorah
Deacon Bill Molloy, of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament HRC, blessed the Christmas tree. The blessing of the Menorah was made in a traditional Hebrew blessing. Peace and harmony were present.
Santa Claus
Prominent persons who attended included: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards; N.Y. Senator John Liu; Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein, a representative from Vickie Paladino’s office, prominent business, and civic leaders. The donors were the following: 3 Towns Café; All in 1 S.P.O.T Thera talk; Speech, Physical & Occupational Therapy Main Street Radiology; Patricia Powis; Little Neck Douglaston Youth Club & Common Point Queens Bay Terrace Center.
Political and civic leaders.
Volunteers were the following: Michael Madden; Carlos Liriano; Santa & Elf Susan Macinik and Joe Lanzetta; Jena Lanzetta NBCA President, Melissa Madden and NBCA members. For an updated list of volunteers, contact NBCA on Facebook.
“Its good to be in great company,” said QC Borough President Richards. “We as elected officials love representing N.Y.; in the new year. This year, I wish you all a happy holiday.”
“It has been a rough year on a lot of levels,” said NY Senator Liu. We had unexpected conflicts all over the world. This community holds it all together. Northwest Bayside Civic Association is the glue that holds all the families of this entire area.”
“I thank NBCA for all the work you do all year, for all the holidays,” said Assemblyman Braunstein. “You bring the community together. My 3 kids are here. They are having the time of their life. Thank you. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah.”
“Our civic organization enjoys gathering our neighbors together,” said NBCA President Jena Lanzetta.” I am really proud to be able to put on this event. All our neighbors can join together in the holiday spirit. Thank you for coming.”
“We are thankful for all of our sponsors and all our elected officials,” said NBCA secretary Melissa Madden. “The date turned out beautiful to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah. Enjoy the holiday season together with friends.”
Community Board 11 posted fabulous holiday events for Saturday, December 9th. The 6th Annual Douglaston Winter festival 2023 was the first event. Warm temperatures set a background that inspired people to come. The event was held at 235th Street and 41st Avenue, Douglaston Village Plaza. The ice-skating rink thrilled children. A DJ played the latest music. A Magician Show mesmerized children. A selfie snow globe stood out.
. Ice skating Ring
Vendors, schools, churches, community corporations, nonprofit organizations, and businesses had booths. Councilmember Vicki Paladino, Assemblyman Edward Braunstein, political and business leaders were present.
“ I come every year,” said Assemblyman Braunstein. “This is an opportunity for the community to get together and celebrate the holidays. Douglaston is a special place. It feels like a small community in a big city.” For further information visit Douglaston Local Development on Facebook.
The exhibition ‘Echoes of Asia Minor: Life, Catastrophe and Resilience’ opened on Tuesday, November 29th, at the NYC Greek Consulate at 69 E 79th St. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, with President Giannis Koutoulias of the Asia Minor Association of Egaleo “Nees Kydonies” & the Museum of Asia Minor Culture of Egaleo collaborated on this event.
“Many New Yorkers are descended from Asia Minor refugees,” said Consul General of Greece in New York, Konstantinos Konstantinou at a Tuesday, November 28th interview on Dimitri Filippides HellasFM program. “Americans must learn about their history: the uprooting of Greek civilization in Asia Minor, their coming to continental Greece and immigration to the USA. For 15 months I have been dreaming of this amazing exhibition about the Asia Minor Catastrophe that was shown in the Athens Benaki Museum. I am happy to make this project a reality.”
Greek welcome of army, Ephesus, Turkey– courtesy of War Museum, Tripolis, Greece
“We encourage schools and groups to come .” said Consular General Konstantinou. “The purpose of the exhibit is for youth to see and learn.” 2023 is the 100th anniversary of the Treaty of Lausanne that resulted in the population exchange of Greeks from their ancestral homeland in Asia Minor to Greece and immigration overseas to America. The Asia Minor refugees came during the first wave of immigration from 1900-1924. America opened its doors to the persecuted Christians of Western Anatolia.
President Koutoulias added “The Asia Minor Catastrophe is never covered in history books. 11/2 million Greeks from Asia Minor came to Greece. Their immigration changed the face of Greece. They were not welcomed and persecuted in many ways. They struggled in Greece with Greeks.”
“We are all Mikrasiates (Greeks of Asia Minor), explained journalist/radio anchor Dimitri Filippidis on his program. “We have friends and neighbors from Asia Minor. They are part of our Greek society.”
“What do Homer, Herodotus, Thales, Strabo, and Diogenes have in common? They all were born, not in what is now modern Greece, but rather in Asia Minor. The ancient Greeks of Asia Minor were crucial to the development of Western poetry, prose, history, medicine, philosophy, and science. Indeed, they were the first great thinkers of antiquity. Yet, many teachers do not convey to their students the remarkable Hellenic presence in Asia Minor and the magnificent contributions these Greeks made to the world. Nor do they tell of the horrible ending to the Greek presence in Asia Minor, through a decade of genocide that may have claimed as many as one million Greek lives”1
Why was Asia Minor, known in history as Ionia important in Ancient Greece? The HistoryDisclosure online page explains that “Ionia was a region in ancient Greece that played a significant role in the development of Greek culture and civilization. The Ionians were one of the four main tribes that inhabited Greece, and their influence can still be felt today in modern Western culture. It was an area rich in natural resources, including fertile soil, abundant timber, and valuable minerals. The region was also strategically located on the eastern edge of the Aegean Sea, making it an important center for trade and commerce.
View of Stadium, Ephesus, Turkey.
Ionia was also home to some of the most famous philosophers in ancient Greece. Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes were all from Miletus, a city located in Ionia. These philosophers were known for their contributions to early Greek science and philosophy. Ionia was also home to some of the most beautiful examples of ancient Greek art and architecture. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture to this day.
Library of Celsus, Ephesus, Turkey
The city-state of Athens is often credited with being the birthplace of democracy. However, many scholars argue that Ionia actually played a crucial role in the development of democratic ideals. The Ionian city-states were known for their democratic governments and were a model for other Greek city-states to follow. Ionia’s democratic ideals influenced the development of democracy in other Greek city-states. Overall, Ionia played a significant role in shaping the course of Western civilization as we know it today.”2
”The beauty of Smyrna was not the houses or streets. The beauty of Smyrna was us, the Greeks, the Romans, the Smyrneoi…. The beauty of the Greeks was not the locations or the marbles. It was the bravery (Leventia) they had in their souls,” said author Angela Papazoglou. Visit the NYC Greek Consulate exhibition to relive our roots.
Father Vasilios Govits, founder of All Saints Monastery, Calverton, NY and former priest of Transfiguration Church, Mattituck, NY. Passed away His funeral will be held on Thursday, December 15th, at All Saints Monastery. He served as priest of the Transfiguration of Christ Greek Orthodox Church from 1996-1999.
Enclosed are excerpts of articles from my book, Transfiguration of Christ Church, Mattituck, New York, chronicling his exceptional ministry.
November 1, 2003 All Saints Greek Orthodox Monastery Stone Setting historic event enhancing Greek Orthodox presence. Photo by Catherine Tsounis
How is the cheapest way to see the Kynouria, Peloponnesian coast? Buy a bus ticket from the Tripoli Ktel bus terminal or Kolokotronis main square. For about 15 euros a person, we had an hour and 15 minute ride along the Kynouria coast.
Paralio Astros (Greek: Παράλιο Άστρος) is a port serving the inland town of Astros, Arcadia, Greece. It is part of the municipality North Kynouria. Built on the northern part of the coast of Arcadia in the eastern Peloponnese1. It has incredible beaches and a harbor. Astros is a popular vacation spot for Tripoli residents and Greece. Less stress, try seeing the coast Of Astros by public bus. It will be an unbelievable experience.
A pony means happiness. “My Little Pony” are gentle, friendly play toys that have brought people closer to each other since 1983. In the minds of many Americans, these toys reflect friendship and community support. Inspiring, always helping people out, is the meaning of “My Little Pony”.
Where can New Yorkers visit a Pony Farm? The Little Red Barn at 353 Manor Lane, Jamesport, Long Island is a private North Fork farm where kids can enjoy ponies and farm animals. My attorney Frank Blangiardo of Blangiardo & Blangiardo law firm described a magical escape operated by his wife, Kate Nickles.
Kate Nickles
“What makes me happy? Being right here,” said Kate Nickles. “And I just love having the barn filled with children and just being out here with the horses and the animals. I’m living my dream right here…with my kids, my animals, my horses on this beautiful property.”1 The Little Red Barn was the carousel building in Greenport, L.I.
Petunia is a popular Pony. A 10 week old bunny was hugged by a 5 year old, who kissed, cuddled her as her own baby. A Pony Riding School is offered for children ages 4 and up.
An outstanding website at www.littleredbarnny.com says: “Equestrian Camp Ages 8 & Up! 1, 2 or 3 Days a week! Kids! Grandkids! Half Days or Full Days! Friend and Sibling Discounts! 2nd week half price! Referral discounts too! Exciting news! Our Baby Bunnies 🐰 were born a few weeks ago! Come see them! Bring your Princes & Princesses, all dressed up with a unicorn. With Friends in a Red Wagon or Beautiful buggy! In our Enchanted Forest Tree Background! Or with our Professional Backdrops by appointment!”2
Farm animal
Kate Nickles is the daughter of the late John Nickles Real Estate and political leader. The Greek American community of Greenport and Eastern L.I. viewed him as a supporter. John Nickles was the driving force of 2 acre zoning. I am honored to say John Nickles was a supporter of my Greek American community service and real estate dealings.
Farm grounds
Kate Nickles continues her late Father’s legacy of caring about the community through her unique pony/baby animal farm at “The Little Red Barn”. For more information, contact 631•566•1690, or kategnickles@gmail.com Bring Your Princes and Princesses All Dressed Up with a Unicorn! With Friends in a Red Wagon or Beautiful Buggy! In our Enchanted
The most magnificent structure in the world in the world is on top of the Acropolis. The ancient Greeks created an amazing, beautiful building, replicated across the world. Everyone who comes to Athens sees the dazzling white marble temple of the Parthenon.
I saw a different view in the summer of 2023. We had dinner with our friends Erica, Doris, and Dr. Ioli Christopoulou at the Acropolis Museum. The dinner was cosmopolitan.
European piano music was played non-stop. Our dinner included: stuffed vine leaves with rice and fresh herbs; grilled fillet gilt head breams with greens; Mediterranean salad; Penne with zucchini and spinach; stuffed eggplants and other gourmet dishes. The attraction was a panoramic view of the Parthenon. The digital image on the entire Acropolis museum building side was inspiring. An image of Athena battling the Giants was shown.
Dr. Ioli Christopoulou is the policy director of the Green Tank, a non-profit think tank aimed at promoting policy solutions for a sustainable future, which she co-founded in 2018. She believes “to change the world to make it more sustainable…it’s up to us.” She showed us a new world that is emerging. She has been appointed to represent 12 NGOs in the national Nature Committee in Greece, which reports to the Minster of Environment and Energy, and currently serves as its alternate chair. She has served as a member of the Board of “MEDASSET – The Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtle.” We enjoyed a wonderful conversation with this dedicated person.
The Parthenon is the finest temple of the Ancient World that continues to dazzle all. The Greeks had many Gods. But this temple was dedicated to one God: Athena Parthenon, the goddess of city and civilization. This view from the Acropolis Museum was unforgettable.
Photos:
Photo 1-3- Panoramic view of the Parthenon
Photo4- An image of Athena battling the Giants.
Photo5- Dr. Ioli Christopoulou
Photo6- Grilled fillet gilt head breams with greens
Archbishop Elpidophoros (6th from left) with education leaders.
The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America perpetuates the language, culture, and traditions of its Greek and Eastern Roman/Byzantine roots. From preschool to high school, the education system enforces where the children came from so they will not forget their roots. As long as the Greek Orthodox Church perpetuates the Greek language and traditions, this ancient people will not become extinct. The Greek civilization, which is the basis of Western civilization, is being transmitted to students of all backgrounds, whose parents want them to learn the culture of the world’s “First Democracy.”
Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Superintendent of St. Demetrios School, welcoming His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros
“Climate and Culture In Our Schools Today” was the theme of the Fifth Annual Conference of Greek Education. The conference was held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., held November 7th, 2023, at St. Demetrios Cathedral School, 30-03 30th Drive Astoria, NY. The sponsors were His Eminence, Archbishop Elpidophoros, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church of America, the Department of Greek Education under the leadership of Director Anastasios Koularmanis and Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas, President of the High Council for Greek Education in the U.S. Archbishop Elpidophoros gave an inspiring speech on Greek education.
Guest speakers Joseph Cantara, Director of Pedagogical Support-Brienza’s Academic Advantage, Dr. Eleni Griva, Vice Chancellor and Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of Western Macedonia, and Dr. Eleni Korosidou, Lecturer, and postdoctoral researcher at the same University delivered exceptional presentations. Dr. Griva and Dr. Korosidou Powerpoint presentations’ subject was “MODERN METHODS AND TECHNIQUES OF TEACHING THE GREEK LANGUAGE.” A discussion with questions and answers followed.
The Program consisted of the following: 9:00AM-9:30AM (Auditorium),Welcome: Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Superintendent of St. Demetrios School,Athina Filippous, Associate Director Greek Education Department, Keynote Address: Joseph Cantara: Director of Pedagogical Support-Brienza’s Academic Advantage; 9:45AM-10:45AM: Session 1, Effect Lesson Design and Planning with Zina Lloyd: Group A (Room 1), Designing Rigorous Activities for Students in ELA with Laura Stropoli: Group B (Room 2), New Guidelines for The State Science Test with Richard Tudda: Group C (Room 3), The Middle School Child in the School Community with Sandy Gross: Group D (Room 4) Effective, Questioning & Discussion Strategies with Charles Sperrazza: Group E (Room 5); 10:50AM -11:50AM: Session 2, Effect Lesson Design and Planning with Zina Lloyd: Group B (Room 2), Designing Rigorous Activities for Students in ELA with Laura Stropoli: Group A (Room 1), New Guidelines for The State Science Test with Richard Tudda: Group D (Room 4), The Middle School Child in The School Community with Sandy Gross: Group C (Room 3) Effective Questioning & Discussion Strategies with Charles Sperrazza: Group E (Room 5), 12:00 Noon-1:00 PM: Panel Discussion (Auditorium) on workshop questions.
“The education workshops introduce tools for diverse styles of learning for children,” said Father Gregory Stamkopoulos, Superintendent of St. Demetrios School. “We follow the spirit of Aristotle’s learning. The purpose of school is to develop and exercise students’ potential for reasoning, forming ethical character.” Father Gregory has been working behind the scenes for five years implementing Archbishop’s Elpidophoros policy of promoting Greek language across the United States. The conference’s success is part of his hard work.
Keynote speaker Joseph Cantara, Director of Pedagogical Support-Brienza’s Academic Advantage
“Students gain self-confidence along with skills and motivation to learn,” said Keynote speaker Joseph Cantara, Director of Pedagogical Support-Brienza’s Academic Advantage. “Social and emotional learning skills enhance academic achievement. Students are prepared for success in today’s world. Critical thinking and creative problem solving is the goal in an education environment. School represents how we think.” For more information, contact Brienza’s Academic advantage at 718 232-114 and www.brienza’s.com.
“Students are most important,” said Dr. Griva in her PowerPoint presentation. “Who they are and their interests are the main focus. Communication with children plays a role in learning techniques. Activities are important in Greek instruction. Toys play a role in teaching. Myths of Aesop appeal to children’s feelings. There must be active participation of children in discussing myths.” The Professor’s PowerPoint slides were excellent with links to sites.
Dr. Eleni Griva, Vice Chancellor and Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of Western Macedonia
Dr. Eleni Korosidou, collaborator of Dr. Griva, continued the PowerPoint presentations, by discussing Freytag’s Pyramid. Both professors used website links in their slides. I was impressed with Dr. Korosidou’s use of barcodes. I went home and called Apple and asked them to recommend scanning software for my iPhone. I checked out her sites of chatterpix.com and storyjumper.com.that have great internet ratings.
What is Freytag’s pyramid? Freytag’s Pyramid is a tool for mapping plot structure, which allows readers to visualize the key features of stories. Students whose experience with text is limited have internalized the pattern described by Freytag’s Pyramid through oral storytelling and television.1 Contact Dr. Grivas and Dr. Korisidou for a more accurate description of their PowerPoint concepts at https://gr.linkedin.com/in/eleni-griva-7379a736 and https://gr.linkedin.com/in/eleni-korosidou.
Ms. Giota Pechlivanidi, Acting Education Counselor of Educational Affairs of the Greek Education at the Consulate General of Greece in New York, said “we understand your efforts in teaching Greek. We will have seminars for educators online and in person.”
Dr. Eleni Korosidou, Lecturer, and postdoctoral researcher at University of Western Macedonia.
His Eminence, Archbishop Elpidophoros, came to show his support of the Greek Conference. The primate has been Archbishop of the United States of America for five years. He believes it is his mission to save Greek. The Archbishop has traveled all over the United States to meet with the middle class communities. He is trying to meet with parishioners by bringing the archdiocese close to them. The archbishop has a vision. Dynamic, progressive, open-minded approach, His Eminence is trying to hold Greek Orthodoxy in a high, positive position and holding on to the youth. “I get my support from you,” he said. “Together we will transmit Greek to the next generation. The merits of Greek Civilization are the basis of American Democracy.” A detailed translation of Archbishop Elpidophoros’ historic speech will be publicized in another article. An appreciation gift was presented to His Eminence by Prof. Dr. Griva and Dr. Korosidou of the Western Macedonian University.
“The Greek schools are an integral part of the Greek Orthodox Church,” said Director of the Department of Greek Education Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis. “Our schools keep Greek alive. Our language, culture and traditions will not perish. In today’s increasingly interconnected and diverse world, fostering a sense of cultural identity and promoting multilingualism is vital for the holistic development of our children. Encouraging children to learn the Greek language from an early age is a meaningful investment in their future.” Dr. Koularmanis was born and raised in New York City. He is a product of our American education system.
“The extraordinary presentations of Dr. Griva and Dr. Korosidou kept our attention,” said Mrs. Athena Tsokou Kromidas, President of the High Council for Greek Education in the U.S. “We wanted to hear more when it ended. I thank all persons who are attempting to transmit Greek to the next generation. We must continue to fight for the perpetuation of the Greek language. We see the pleasure in the children’s eyes, that they are able to speak Greek. The parents support Greek education curriculum. Special congratulations to you two educators.” Greek school educators do not have the salary all the services that public school teachers are given. They Have a unique a dedication, such as Mrs.Tsokou Kromidas that is where in today’s monetary society.
“It was a great idea to invite Dr. Griva to present strategies in teaching Greek as a second language,” said Mrs. Stella Kokolis President of the Federation of Hellenic American Educators and Cultural Associations of America. “ Dr. Grivas has travelled three continents spreading her teaching techniques in teaching English as a second language as well. Greece’s Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs granted awards to outstanding Greek Americans. They were recognized and honored by Deputy Minister of Education and Religious Affairs Zeta Makris for their unique contribution to Greek language and culture and transmission of the Greek Orthodox tradition in America. They were recognized in a virtual presentation on February 12, 2023. These awards were given in person on March 12th. I am giving certificates today to teachers who did not attend in March.”
“The November 6th conference is a noble attempt to present teaching strategies and bring Greek Educators together,” believes Prof Demosthenes Triantafillou. “I like to express my congratulations. They have a lot of hard work on their hands! The essence of Philosophy, my academic subject is the search for and telling of truth. I think you know that after all these years. If we need to improve Greek Education , all of us have the moral duty to report the truth and describe reality as it is!” Prof. Triantafillou is Director of the Office of Greek Education of the Metropolis of New Jersey.
Conference participants
What were the conclusions of some participants of the conference? Sophia Logothetis, spokesperson of the Northern New Jersey educators with ,Maria Soumilos, Fotoula Anastasopoulos, Marina Bollano and Rita Fitanidou of SS. Nicholas Constantine & Helen Church, Roseland, N.J. were impressed. “Educators were offered invaluable information to help them design modern teaching scenarios to meet the demand of the new generation of students,” Mrs. Logothetis. “The key speakers this year were Dr. Eleni Griva and Dr. Eleni Korosidou whose excellent presentations will hopefully serve as the model for effective lesson planning. The informative question and answer period allowed Greek language instructors to share real classroom experiences and exchange ideas with teachers from the surrounding communities and New Jersey.” Positive feedback for the 5th Annual Greek Educatiom Conference of the Greek Orthodox Church of America. Special appreciation to St. Demetrios School Assistant Principal Betsy Sideris and staff Stella Tsikis, Patricia and Daniela who prepared St. Demetrios Hall for the conference. Contact Director Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis at akoularmanis@goarch.org for more information.
“The heroic struggle of the Greek people to defend their liberties and their homes against the aggression of Germany after they had so signally defeated the Italian attempt at invasion has stirred the hearts and aroused the sympathy of the whole American people,” said Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the second greatest president in USA history. “Roosevelt’s statement came just months after the Italian invasion of October 28, 1940, when Benito Mussolini’s fascist forces attempted to invade Greece through Albania. Early that morning, Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas had faced a grim ultimatum from the Italian dictator — surrender, or face war. Metaxas defiant response — “no” — subsequently marked one of the most defining moments in WWII history.”1 The Greek nation was the only victorious nation in WWII against the unbeatable Fascist machine. Every Greek in America was elevated to a higher perception as unique.
In 2023 New York City, The Cathedral School of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese remembers the sacrifice of Greece, who refused to surrender to aggression. The program was entitled “The Sovereign Sun” poems and songs by Nobel Prize winner Odysseus Elytis. The event was held Friday, October 27th in the school auditorium. Honored guest was NY Consul General of Greece Konstantinos Konstantinou. V. Rev Archimandrite Chrysostomos Gilbert is Archdiocesan Cathedra Dean. The Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, at 319–337 East 74th Street on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in New York City, serves as the national cathedral of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, and episcopal seat of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America. Mrs. Merope Kyriacou is the Principal.
Principal Mrs. Merope Kyriacou (standing) addressing audience.
The program consisted of the following: US National Anthem, and Greek National Anthem School Choir, 2-6th grades; Greek National Anthem; Opening Remarks, Principal, Mrs. Meropi Kyriacou; Remarks, V. Rev. Archimandrite Chrysostomos Gilbert; The OXI (October 28th) Day Celebration speech, Mrs. Athanasia Filios and Mrs. Eli Itsanta; Remarks, School Board Chairman, Will Sakellaris, “The Sovereign Sun” songs, the Cathedral School Choir, 1-6 grades, Artistic Director, Theodore Alvanos; songs of The Sun, The Sovereign Sun, O Come you shores and come you seas, Plains of Thessaloniki, Menexis (Sweet Violet), I’ve never seen so strange or beautiful a land, There is nothing more a man may want and The Crazy Boat; Women’s Chorus, 4th grade, Narrator George Vergetis, 5th grade; The Sun, 5th and 6th grades; The Wind, 1st Grade; chorus, 2nd grade; The Winds, kindergarten; Sailors, preschooler; Closing remarks, NY Consul General of Greece Konstantinos Konstantinou.
V. Rev Archimandrite Chrysostomos Gilbert, NY Consul General of Greece Konstantinos Konstantinou and Fr Gregory Stamkopoulos
“Performances like these 6,000 miles away from Greece are more meaningful and way more emotional than the ones that take place in Greece, “ said Consul General Konstantinou. “ For this we have to congratulate the teachers, the principal, the students, and the staff. I would like to direct a message to the parents who are not of Greek descent. Why should you send your children to a school where Greek is spoken? This is a unique combination of two great nations between the most ancient democracy, the Greek Democracy, the cradle of civilization and the biggest democracy in the world, which is the USA. We should be all proud and very happy to send our kids here to the Cathedral School.”
With the passing of the WWII generation and baby boomers, Greece’s heroism in WWII is not remembered by many, except in our Greek American schools. A Field Marshal said “Regardless of what future historians shall say, what we can say now is that Greece gave Mussolini an unforgettable lesson, they were the motive for the revolution in Yugoslavia, they held the Germans in the mainland and Crete for six weeks, they upset the chronological order of all German High Command’s plans and thus brought a general reversal of the entire course of the war, and we won.”2 For this reason, the WEST must remember the courage, unity and resistance of the Greek nation on October 28, 1940 that saved all. The Cathedral School’s program is an inspiration during this time of upheaval in Europe and the Middle East.
Leonard Bernstein called her “the Bible of opera”. Her influence was so enduring that, in 2006, Opera News wrote of her: “Nearly thirty years after her death, she’s still the definition of the diva as artist—and still one of classical music’s best-selling vocalists.”1 Maria Callas, a New York City Greek American became the greatest opera singer of her time. Her 100th Anniversary of her birth is being celebrated in 2023. We were proud in Astoria that this great lady was born in New York city and was a Greek American.
On a 2017 Greece trip, I attended an exceptional exhibition titled ‘The Myth Lives On’, presented by the B & M Theocharakis Foundation, in Athens. Two hundred of her personal belongings were displayed including: theatre costumes, furs, jewelry, dresses, furniture, and handwritten letters and notes from friends and relatives. TV and movies portrayed her relationship with the richest man in the world at that time, shipowner Aristotle Onassis. She passed away in 1977 at the age of fifty-three.
Legendary interviewer Mike Wallace had one of his finest interviews with Maria Callas in February 1974. I was impressed with her answer about her personal life. Basically, she said, “I had a husband, a lover and that’s that…no more, I am now singing.”2 Her brilliant answers put Wallace on the defensive in his ’60 Minutes” show. Through the years, I remembered that exceptional interview.
The exhibit had photos of her high points in her career. Her gowns and shawls were impressive. An exhibit showed a signed menu from a party in Callas” honor by American gossip columnist Elsa Maxwell. At the Danielli Hotel in Venice, September 4, 1957. The date was a landmark in Callas” life. It was the first time she met Aristotle Onassis. She took particular care of this memento. Maxwell introduced Onassis and Callas to each other as “the two most famous living Greeks in the world.
A unique woman who died young. The phrase often heard was “There is only one Maria Callas.” She elevated the youth of my 1970’s generation because of her major accomplishments.
All photos by Catherine Tsounis
Photo2- Exhibit poster
Photo3- A famous Callas gown
Photo4- Scenes of her operas
Photo 5- Menu from the night she met Aristotle Onassis.
The rain on October 30th did not change the plans for the Bayside Little League’s annual 2023 Trunk Or Treat Halloween event. Thousands came to participate at the parking garage of the Bay Terrace Shopping Center in Bayside. Sponsors from northeastern Queens had trucks decorated with a DJ. A pumpkin patch was available for all who donated canned goods, This was a free event. Happy families with their children brightened the day. For more information visit Bayside Little League on Facebook.
80 degree temperatures attracted hundreds to the Halloween “Trunk or Treat” event of Northwest Bayside Civic Associations (NBCA) on Saturday, October 28th afternoon. The location was at 206 St. And 29 Ave. just outside Bayside Hills. A fun free happening with face painting, balloon artist, candy, live DJ, cash raffle and prizes for best costume and best decorated car. Many businesses were. Sponsors. NY State Senator John Liu attended. “The Association has a beautiful day,” he said. “Families with children are celebrating Halloween a couple of days earlier. It is all good spirits in the world nowadays.
Saima (2nd row, center), administrator at Dental Korner, with her family and friends enjoying “Trunk or Treat”.
NBCA administrators and friends Drew Elder (left to right),John Cronin treasurer and Melissa Madden secretary.
A Halloween trunk
NY State Senator John Liu (center) with NBCA members.
In the commercial center of Bell Blvd at Long Island Railroad station, children were enjoying games, arts and crafts. Finding a pumpkin in a festive patch was a highlight, with decorating it at a stand. Story telling, ping-pong, face painting, helium balloons,square dancing, jumping in a pumpkin playground were fun features.
The free Family Fun Day was held at 41st Ave. between Bell Blvd. and 213 St. On Sunday afternoon, October 22, 2023. The sponsor was the Bayside Village Business Improvement District (BID). Dr. Kandov of Bay View Orthodontics was a sponsor and held a fabulous free raffle to community.
Apple picking and pumpkin hunt searching at an orchard or farm was everyone’s favorite pastime. Bumper to bumper cars were seen on route 35A/Sound avenue for 4 days Saturday-Monday 0ctobet 7th – 9th. Harbes Farm in Mattituck had record breaking crowds. Urban and suburban families wanted their children to enjoy another way of life: rural, farm America.
As soon as beach weather ended in September, one mother said “We are going apple picking.” The crowds began at 10 am. In the Woodside Apple Orchards at 729 route 25, Aquebogue. A bag for $20 and searching for the perfect apple was what all children wanted. The many apples on the ground were harvested and created into apple cider at the orchards mill nearby. Sitting at a bench, eating a joy, old fashion donut with apple cider was a treat. An escape, watching children laugh created san enjoyable weekend for thousands of New Yorkers.
Photos By Catherine Tsounis. Scenes of Apple picking, farm and Apple cider stand off Woodside Apple Orchards.
The beauty of the beach is in the serene, clear blue waters of Greece. it is a healing experience that inspires. On the August 6th Feast Day of our church, The Transfiguration of Christ in Mattituck, NY, I experienced unique experience at Finikounda, Messinia. This was part of a bus trip that included Methoni and Pylos of Kapogiannis Travel agency. We saw the entire coastline of Messinia: cliffs and crystal beaches. We are fluent in Greek, that is a plus in getting to know the heart of the Greek soul.
Finikounda is a coastal village/resort area of Messinia in the southern Peloponnese. The village is built in a cove bay, just across the complex of Oinousses that is composed ofSapienza, Schiza and Agia Mariana islands. “Schiza Island is not allowed to have tourists, because it is a military base used for air drills,” said our guide/leader Kostoula. The name “Finikounda” is considered to be possibly due to the Phoenicians, who as naval people landed on the coast of Peloponnese and founded Finikounda at the present place of Anemomylos (Windmill).1
We decided to go to a beach at Terra & Mare restaurant. The lunch menu was tailored to everyone’s diet. A waiter told me “the cook does an excellent job.” At the conclusion of our swim and lunch, I asked to meet the cook and thank her personally. I met the Owners who we had an informative conversation.
“My name is Adriana Zorba Karvela,” said the owner’s wife, who is the mayor of Kalamata,” she said. “My daughter is a university student who manages our restaurant Terra & Mare. I am an educator of the German language. My origin is Preveza, Epirus. My husband, Panagiotis Karvelas’ family is from Chrisovitsi, Arcadia. Panagiotis Karvelas is the mayor of Pylos_Nestoros municipality.” The village was a center of Greek rebellion during the Greek Revolution of 1821. The revolutionary leader Theodoros Kolokotronis grew up in nearby Limpovisi.
Four years ago, I took a taxi trip to Monemvasia for 200 euros. In 2023, I had several bus trips of the southern Peloponnesian coastline, including more areas, for 20-25 euros a person at Kapogiannis Travel agency with guide Kostoula and bus driver Giorgos. A family member said “2023 was the best Greek trip I have had.” He is from Greece. Enjoy and socialize with Greeks at the beach and seaside restaurants.
The tale of the refugee describes the Greek Nation from the Fall of Constantinople till the 1821 Greek Revolution. “For a good man to leave his city, his rich fields and go a-begging is of all things the most miserable. Wandering with mother dear and aged father with little children and wedded wife. For hateful shall such an one be among all those to whom he be among, all those to whom he shall come in bondage, to want loathsome penury (poverty) and doth shame to his lineage and belie his noble beauty followed by all evil and dishonor,” – ancient Greek poet Tyrtaeus.1
The late Apostolia Papadopoulou.
Exile, a person without a country was the life of a Greek. But it was more bitter for the vast and less fortunate majority of Greeks from the conquered Byzantine Empire. Victor Davis Hanson, Classicist, military historian, and political commentator explained the horrific treatment of Greeks and Armenians who experienced genocide under Ottoman rule. “Greeks experienced from 1453 with the Fall of Constantinople, 400 years of Ottoman rule that ended in horrific treatment in Smyrna 1922,” he said.2
Dr. Isaak Papadopoulos, Assistant Professor of Pedagogy and Literacy Department of Early Childhood Education and Care at the International Hellenic University Thessaloniki, Alexander Campus in Sindos, related the amazing story of his late grandmother, Apostolia Papadopoulou, who passed away in October 2023. Mrs. Papadopoulou was “ a remarkable individual whose roots traced back to the rich cultural tapestry of Asia Minor. She passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy deeply intertwined with the heritage and traditions of her ancestors. Apostolia Papadopoulou was not only a guardian of her family’s cultural heritage, but also a beloved grandmother.” She inspired Dr. Isaak Papadopoulos to be a scholar, contributing to the perpetuation of the culture of the Greek community of Asia Minor/Western Anatolia. Grandparents inspire their grandchildren to remember their family’s roots.
Flooded Omorfohori, September 2023
“Her life’s work revolved around preserving the traditional way of life of the Asia Minor people,” explained Dr. Papadopoulos. “She did so from the heart of Omorfochori in Larissa, Greece. Apostolia Papadopoulou’s story is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the Greek people who, over the centuries, endured challenges and upheavals while preserving their unique cultural identity. Born to a family with roots in Asia Minor, Apostolia was deeply connected to a heritage that was rich in traditions, cuisine, music, and language. Her ancestors had once called Asia Minor home until the population exchange of 1923, when they were forced to leave their ancestral land and make Greece their new home.”
– Agios Giorgo, before the flood
“Apostolia’s life unfolded in the charming village of Omorfochori, nestled in the region of Larissa, Greece,” said Professor Papadopoulos. “Here, she dedicated herself to preserving the traditional way of life and customs of the Asia Minor people. Omorfochori became a haven for those who sought refuge from the turbulent times of the early 20th century. It was within this picturesque village that Apostolia’s unwavering commitment to her roots came to life.
She was a guardian of the traditional cuisine, cooking up recipes passed down through generations, ensuring that the flavors of Asia Minor were not lost to time. Her kitchen was a place where generations gathered to savor the culinary delights of her ancestors, sharing stories and bonding over the meals that connected them to their past. Apostolia Papadopoulou’s legacy extended beyond her preservation of cultural traditions.” Her grandson, Dr. Isaak Papadopoulos, inherited her passion for preserving their family’s heritage. Together, they continued to document and share the stories, songs, and recipes that had been passed down through the generations. Her dedication to preserving the traditions, flavors, and sounds of her ancestors ensured that the legacy of Asia Minor lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew her and the generations to come. Her life’s work in the charming village of Omorfochori in Larissa, Greece, serves as a shining example of the enduring power of cultural heritage and the profound impact one person can have in preserving it.
Sts. Raphael and Nicholas before the flood
They did not have cell phones, no welfare, food stamps, free lunches, medical care, or advocacy groups trying to help them. The Western Anatolia refugees were from the business, maritime and education communities, The 1922 refugees of the Greek Genocide of Asia Minor in Western Anatolia, were destroyed by Western Powers, who dismembered the Ottoman Empire by using ultra nationalistic groups. They came to Greece, traumatized with Greek Orthodox icons. “Unwelcomed,” said Scholar Efrosini Mancini of a Constantinople Family with Phanariot roots (Greek ruling class of Ottoman Empire). “No one wanted the 1923 refugees.” Called “”tourkospori” or “seeds of the Turks”, they came to Greece with their knowledge of Greek language, civilization, and Greek Orthodoxy.
I met Dr. Isaak from a workshop hosted by the Greek teachers Association “Prometheus”. His research shows the Asia Minor refugees built churches and schools, transforming their area. “My village was named “Nechali” as there were only some native people there when refugees from Asia Minor came,” explained Dr. Isaak. “They created a new village just next to Nechali and they renamed it ‘Omorfochori’, My great grandmother told me that when she came to Greece, she felt really sad. She was afraid because of the unknown. They came to Omorfochori. They were given a small building for a house and a cow. They tried to survive. They did it because they were very hard working.”
“Naturally, the refugees focused on two key factors: religion and education., explained Dr. Isaak. “The religious faith of the people of Asia Minor was great. There was a chapel in almost every house. They also showed great reverence during the holidays as most of them fasted, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays. Priests were also respected and loved like their parents. Respect for the elders was the main element then. The metropolis of the village was the church of Agios Athanasios… Agios Charalambos in Hassambali, Ascension Church on Mount Mopsio and the church of Agios Georgios, in the center of the present village.
Omorfohori, the village that Mrs. Apostolia Papadopoulou was destroyed at the end of her life in September 2023. Hurricane Daniel destroyed Magnesia, Karditsa, Larissa and Central Greece was s destroyed by rains, floods, and rising waters of the Pineios river. Palamas, Omorfohori and other villages have vanished under floods and mud. Dr. Papadopoulos believes “Though the Floodwaters have changed the landscape of our lives, they can never wash away the spirit of our community. We may be scattered, but we remain united in our hearts.”4
Consul General of Greece in New York Konstantinos Konstantinou, explained on October, 20, 2023 at radio host/journalist Dimitris Filippidis program that “an exhibition of the Asia Minor Catastrophe will be held from November through December. All that happened in Western Anatolia is part of the Greek nation’s history. This must be kept alive. Our youth must remember who and what we are. Grandchildren must learn about their grandparents lives and history in Asia Minor.who and what we are.
Mrs. Apostolia Papadopoulous’ legacy is in the hearts of the persons who enjoyed her culture stories with her Asia Minor cuisine. “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”- Pericles.
The timeless truth of Byzantine iconography gives hope to all who visit Meteora monasteries. Iconography is a visual history that replaces written documents that are lost in time. The majority of worshippers are Eastern Orthodox, who number 220 million Christians. They have suffered since the fall of the Easter Roman Byzantine Empire in 1453. Kapogiannis Travel Agency for a low price took over 45 persons in August 2023. A fire truck was at the entrance of St Stephen’s monastery.
I always marvel at the fresco of father/abbotSt Sisoes before the tomb of Alexander the Great. Even the powerful are conquered by Death. We all end in the same grave. The Greek inscription reads “Sisoes, the great Ascetic,before the tomb of Alexander, King of the Greeks, who was once covered in glory, astonished, he mourns for the vicissitudes of time and the transience of glory and tearfully declaims: The mere sight of you, tomb, dismays me and causes my heart to shed tears, as I contemplate the debt, we, all men owe. How can I possibly stand it? Oh Death! Who can evade you?” Perfect. Visit Meteora. #meteora #meteoragreece #meteoramonastery.
Kapogiannis Travel Agency made this unique trip in August 2023. Unique
The Holy Monastery of Varlaam is the second biggest monastery of Meteora. Located very close to Great Meteoro Monastery, it was founded in the mid 14th century by a monk named Varlaam.
Varlaam managed to climb on the cliff around 1350 and followed by a few other monks he was able to establish the monastery. Decades later in the early 15th century, after Varlaam died, the cliff was abandoned by the rest of the monks. The 14th-century chapel built by him and dedicated to the “Three Hierarchs” was almost turned into ruins.
In the early 16th century two brothers from Ioannina, the priest-monks Theophanes and Nectarios, the so-called Apsarades decided to reactivate the abandoned monastery of Varlaam. They settled on the cliff spending many years building a new chapel dedicated to “All Saints” in 1541.
The two brothers from Ioannina, Theophanes, and Nectarios are celebrated today as the two founders of the monastery of Varlaam. The Holy Monastery of Varlaam offers exceptional views to its visitors as well as a beautiful new museum where they exhibit many of the monastery’s valuable relics, art, and manuscripts.
The beautiful frescos in the monastery’s chapel of All Saints belong to the famous hagiographer of the 16th century Franco Catalano. The monastery has preserved the tower with the old pully system where you can see the net, used by the first monks to bring up people and provisions.
The visitors can also see a very large 16th-century oak barrel used for water storage over the previous centuries. The monastery of Varlaam has opened recently a brand new museum, where visitors can admire the excellence of religious painted icons – mostly contemporary to the Renaissance period – and precious holy vestments of the priests from the Byzantine period.1
I have come across war museums in many cities throughout Greece. The War Museum of Tripoli shows the sacrifice and bravery of their Arcadian troops from every village. The displays show the role of Arcadians and Greeks. It is now the 101st Anniversary of the Asia Minor Catastrophe.
Photo1- Greek Health officials of the VII Division vaccinating Turkish children
The official information states “After the end of World War I, Greece, as a victorious country, sent an army to Asia Minor. The dream of liberation of unredeemed brothers of the area seemed to be taking place for the time being. But soon the hopes were dashed. At the end of August 1922, the Turkish troops definitively defeated the Greek army. The defeat of the Greek expeditionary force resulted in its destruction of Asia Minor Hellenism and its uprooting from its lands, known as the Asia Minor Catastrophe.
Students and teachers of Greek Schools, Asia Minor.
With the Treaty of Sèvres (August 1920), which ended World War I, Greece annexes Western and Eastern Thrace and receives the order from the Entente (United Kingdom, France, and Russia) to command for five years Smyrna. After the lapse of five years, its inhabitants would decide whether it would unite with Greece. The Greek army immediately came to Pergamum and Aydini in clash with Turkish soldiers and rebels…”
Panagiotis Zafiriou Zafiropoulos of Theoktisto Gortinia Arcadia, of Plastiras regiment, received 3 medals of honor.
The War Museum handout explains “In November 1920 Venizelos lost the elections. Authority was taken over by his political opponents, who restored King Constantine to the throne, causing by their action the discontent of the English and the French.” The tour guide said the 1920 elections and ouster of Eleftherios Venizelos was the reason for the Greek defeat.
The terms of the Treaty of Sèvres caused the reaction of Turks. A civil war broke out inside the Ottoman Empire war between the followers of the Sultan and those of the officer.
Mustafa Kemal. Kemal, maintaining contacts with the Italians and French, from whose ports arms and ammunition were supplied, organized resistance against the Greek army. The situation in Asia Minor was gradually changing, as most Allies began to abandon the lands they occupied. But the Soviets also began to they support Kemal.” Basically, The Greek troops lost the support of the Major Powers. All these Powers, United Kingdon, France, Russia, and Italy and Germany caused the Asia Minor Catastrophe by deserting Greece.
Chrisostomos, Bishop of Smyrna, who was tortured by enraged mob.
The official handout said “in August 1922, the Turks of Kemal attacked the weakened Greek military forces. The defender line was broken and the Greek army was forced to retreat. Thousands of Greeks follow ed, fearing Turkish reprisals. At the end of August, the Turks entered Smyrna, set fire to the Greek and Armenian quarter of the city. Metropolitan Chrysostomos was handed over to the Muslim mob and killed. Unspeakable scenes of pain unfolded in the port, with a crowd of refugees who were struggling to get onto the ships to save themselves. Massacres of Christians and looting completed the destruction. It was the dramatic end of centuries of Greek presence in the region. After defeating them, Kemalists signed the Treaty of Lausanne in 1923. Greece evacuates North Thrace without fighting, which is ceded to Turkey and the Imbros and Tenedos islands. There is an exchange of populations. Greece successfully absorbs 1,500,000 refugees.” Facts are accurate.
Greek soldiers Easter at the front.
The historical photos are exceptional. A photo of Greek Health officials of the VII Division vaccinating Turkish children is unforgettable. This is never mentioned in mainstream history. Photographs show the Greeks of the coast of Asia Minor were an urban population, wearing Western attire and not traditional Greek folk clothing.
Photos showed the following: Calvary and Evzone military charges in 1921; Refugees waiting for the train; Students and teachers of Greek schools; 2nd group of kindergarten school of Usak 1921; Easter at the front; Commemorative photo of Giorgos Papanikolaou of Kalianou, Arcadias of the Afyon Kara Hisar front; Greek aviators in Asia Minor; Welcome of Greek army in Ephesus: Bandaging station for wounded of the 5th Division; “The Averoff”, “Kilkis”, and “Limnos” warships; Panagiotis Zafiriou Zafiropoulos of Theoktisto Gortinia Arcadia, of Plastiras regiment, received 3 medals of honor; Turkish sword, rifles, guns; Evzones resting after battle; 1921 Fallen war hero Periklis of Dimitriou from Tsarouhli village of Agaia; Arcadian war heroes; Students and teachers of Greek Schools; 2nd group kindergarten Usak 1921 and other memorable photos.
A photograph of the Bishop of Smyrna, Chrisostomos Kalafatis, personally autographed, is exceptional. He signed “to the foreign minister, the Honorable Mr. Dromidis from Smyrna, Chrisostomos, Bishop of Smyrna.”
In his memoirs Ambassador Morgenthau’s Story (1918) Henry Morgenthau wrote, “Acting under Germany’s prompting, Turkey now began to apply this principle of deportation to her Greek subjects in Asia Minor… This procedure against the Greeks not improperly aroused my indignation. I did not have the slightest suspicion at that time that the Germans had instigated these deportations……” The other Major Powers did not oppose the uprooting of Greeks from their ancestral lands. They were all in it together for their national interests. General Nikolaos Plastiras role in the peace settlement is not mentioned. He was a patriot, who put the interests of his country first.
Evangelia Serbou Katogoudi has a photograph of her grandfather Alexandros Koutouvides, son of Nikolaos, on her Facebook page. He was from Kato Panagia of Cesme. Her grandfather is shown as an urbanite in a fashionable suit. He was one of the many urbanites of the Western Anatolian coast. They were not peasants as shown in news photos. The Mikrasiatic Greeks had economic means. They went from riches to rags as refugees in Greece.
Alexander Koutouvides
Dr. John Siolas’ grandfather, Panagiotis, a farmer from Bodia (Palaiopyrgos), Arcadia, was a prisoner of war in Turkey for several months during the Asia Minor campaign. He was later released to the Greek military. He returned on boats to Greece. He always remembered the Greeks community left behind.
The Anatolian Greeks known as Asia Minor Greeks (Mikrasiates) lived in Anatolia B.C. till 1923, as a result of colonization to 1923, as a result of Greek colonization. Over 3,000 years of history ended. It was an advanced civilization that was the birthplace of coinage and first used coined money in trade. The War Museum of Tripoli remembers the Arcadian role in the Asia Minor campaign. “To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history?”
A Happy Celebration with laughter ringing in the Swan Club On The Harbor Saturday, September 8t afternoon. A Funtime celebrating at Talar’s BabyShower with games and music. Family and friend enjoyed a lavish luncheon with international pastries. The happy grandmother is international Armenian American beautician Madelene Najarian of International Haircutters beauty parlour
Union Turnpike Queens. Best Wishes to Talar and Mike Guzman on this happy occasion welcoming their baby
Amalia Bollanos has a natural talent in jewelry reations. Her displays excited the imagination of all at St. Paraskevi Festival of Greenlawn, LI, NY., the weekend of September 15-17th.
“I have been on Long Island for over 20 years, surrounded by my wonderful husband Peter and my beautiful daughter Athalia Theofania and my amazing family and friends,” she explained. “My journey began in September 2014 when I attended my first festival at Holy Trinity Church, Hicksville New York. It was a very overwhelming experience. Watching everyone’s enthusiasm, support, and love inspired me.”
Amalia Bollanos (3rd from left) with her loyal customers
Come and visit Amalia at Greek and local Festivals that are being held over the coming weeks. Visit Amalia Bollanos at Facebook.
The plains of Thessaly are the heartland of the farming industry. I saw a fertile area in the middle of August with a Kapogiannis tour. The Breadbasket of Greece. Livestock with soil that could grow anything. A wealthy area created by the farming community’s strong work ethic. A real PARADISE: fertile, affluent with villages that had two story modern homes with balconies. Queens, New York homes were inferior to what I saw in Thessaly August 2023.
A major percentage of the community are the descendants of Greek refugees from Westen Anatolia, Asia Minor of Cappadocia, Black Sea coast of the Pontos, Constantinople and Smyrna. Affluent families who lost wealth and communities during the “Population Exchange” of Greeks and Turkish people, finalized by the Major Powers in the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne. Many of the Greek refugees were given land in Thessaly. They created vibrant communities with churches and schools. They educated their children to become professionals, while others used modern techniques to farm their fertile soil.
This paradise, I witnessed in August 2023, was destroyed 3 weeks later by Hurricane Daniel. Magnesia, Karditsa, Larissa and Central Greece was s destroyed by rains, floods, and rising waters of the Pineios river. Palamas, Omorfohori and other villages have vanished under floods and mud. Dimitri Filippidis, radio anchor/international journalist on his September 7th show said, “this is the greatest disaster since the Asia Minor Catastrophe of 1922 that displaced the Greeks of Western Anatolia.”
Dr. Alexios Vardouniotis, Ent surgeon, in Tripoli, Arcadia, explained “in Thessaly there has been a disaster of Biblical proportions…casualties. Really sad especially after the wildfire destruction in the forest of Davia in Thrace (Evros border by Turkey).”
Our friend, educator Dr Isaak Papadopoulos, lives in Larissa. On Friday afternoon, September 7th, he reported that “the water from the river is approaching our house. Many villages have been destroyed. As of now, eight persons have died. We are on the second floor.” Rising water from Pineios river has stopped . They are able to leave the house, but the streets are flooded. His village of Omorfohori does not exist, covered by mud and floods. Dr. Papadopoulos’ family came from Cappadocia and Constantinople 100 years ago. His wife, Varvara, is a descendant of the Black Sea coast Pontians.
How would you feel if your family’s home in rural America vanished suddenly in water and mud? Livestock and animals are dead, all over the landscape, leading to possible diseases. Dr. Papadopoulos believes “Though the Floodwaters have changed the landscape of our lives, they can never wash away the spirit of our community. We may be scattered, but we remain united in our hearts.” Contact Dr. Isaak Papadopoulos on Facebook.
2023 Greece Fires of forests all over Greece, that I witnessed in July and August, “can lead to drought and floods.” The online site Earth Reminder for Everyone states “Together with their extensive root systems, trees act as a vast sponge soaking in the excess water. However, when a large number of trees are cut down, the root system is destroyed, and there is nothing to soak in the extra water, which flows freely, flooding the entire area. In simple words, Deforestation leads to decreased water holding capability of soil. This causes excessive water flow into the ground, resulting in floods.”1
Major corporations, many who have Greek and Greek Americans in top positions, must mobilize bring economic, food and pharmaceutical relief directly to the people of Thessaly without loans. It is time for the Diaspora Greeks to save their country, the roots of Western Civilization. Our Deepest Sympathy to the nation of Greece in this national tragedy: the loss of Central Greece to flooding.
All the flooded area photos were taken in Thessaly by Dr. Isaak Papadopoulos.
A Memorial was held Sunday, September 2nd at the Transfiguration of Christ Church in Mattituck, NY for the late Gerasimos (Jerry) Nicholas Ballas. His grandfather Rev Gerasimos Ballas with Rev Rev. Economos Father Andrew D. Cadieux performed the service. He was the grandson of Fr. Gerasimos Ballas and Presvitera Koula Ballas.
Rev. Ballas expanded the growth of Saints Anargyroi, Taxiarchis & GerasimosGreek Orthodox Church of Greenport, creating a vibrant community. Members of his Greenport parish attended the memorial in Mattituck. Our Deepest Sympathy on the passing away of 18 year old Gerasimos Nicholas.
Greek American Experience 
