DEC/JAN 2017
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Says Entrepreneur, Philanthropist & Community Leader
JOHN SAKELLARIS: "If you forget where you came from, !" g n oi g re a ou y e er h w ow n k 't you don
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Should we stop talking A listing of gratitude politics and instead talk about I’ll always be grateful for a what we’re grateful for as we sister who has a heart as big as enter 2017? the world. She seems to I’m grateful—knock on endure for everybody. wood—and my late mother I will eternally be grateful to my would spit to ward off the evil wife, who put up with me, eye—for my health and hope while I practically grew that it can continue long up—and with her help hope to enough to let me see my continue the process. And who children start their own has always been a model for me families and the careers of of grace under pressure and their choice and be happy in eternal beauty. them. And be happy with the people they meet. People I’m always grateful the stalwart heroics who need people are the happiest people in of my compatriots infor this magazine: Dimitri the world. Rhompotis who fights like Ajax in the I’m grateful, as I sit here, and only a little trenches and wields a big panama hat and melancholy because I miss them, that I had cigar in lieu of Ajax’s big shield. And the parents and grandparents that I Kyprianos Bazenikas, our Diomedes, who had—whose stories I love to tell over and looks the best of us in a suit. over again. How my Papou Michalakis had I am grateful that Greece is still there, and humor so dry that people never suspected still beautiful, despite all it has gone he was teasing them: he once told me that through in its history, and all it will endure, the ice cream we were eating was so hot that I’m sure in the near future. It is eternally it burned his tongue—and I believed him. beautiful and its shimmering mirrors its And my Giagia Michalakis who raised me when I was an infant and was a surrogate shimmering soul. mother to me. And I am grateful to this country which I immigrated to when I was a kid, like many of I’m grateful for my father, who was a and which took me in, and my parents, complicated man, but a man of brilliance us, and many of my family, and did elect a black and huge achievement. He left his village man for president, twice—so this country is and went on to a PhD at Columbia—after not racist in its core, it has a bedrock of surviving five years on the front lines of a decent people. And somehow, I hope, all brutal civil war. And my mother was by his our political will be sifted out side the whole time and I will always and we willdifferences find our way out of this remember her - with little education - trying wilderness. America was, and must in her stoic way to teach herself English by going to classes at night at the local high continue to be, the great hope of the world. school in Chicago. Happy New Year.
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By Endy Zemenides
strategy στρατηγική
CULTURAL LITERACY AS A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION Most people reading this have probably made a resolution to better themselves in some way in 2017. We all have thought of how to make ourselves healthier, more efficient, happier. Those reading this magazine share an interest in Hellenism and the Greek-American community, but have we all considered how we can better contribute to Hellenism in 2017?
over what it means to be a Hellene in the diaspora. This could in fact be a divisive question. Does being a Hellene require a level of fluency with the Greek language? Does it require some tie to or advocacy on behalf of Greece? Does it require being Greek Orthodox?
Endy Zemenides is the Executive Director of the Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC), a national advocacy organization for the Greek American community. To learn more about HALC, visit www.hellenicleaders.com
at the University of Illinois at C h i c a g o . Professor Marinatos was asked the following question: “What is one thing we all must do to start preserving the essence of Hellenism?” Without hesitation, Professor Marinatos answered to an audience of mostly young parents and young professionals: “Become familiar with the texts of Herodotus and Thucydides, and pass their lessons onto the next generation.”
Our future as a diaspora may indeed depend on the answers to the above questions, but even coming up The New Year inevitably leads to some type of with these answers may be controversial. We can no reflection. Since the challenges faced by Hellenism longer characterize our community as one led by remain for 2017, it is high time for a great debate immigrants from Greece. The number of households speaking Greek is constantly decreasing. Attendance at Greek language schools is at historic lows. The Greek Orthodox Church is This is where we are lucky as Greek-Americans. These fundamental texts and others – Homer’s Iliad losing stewards. and Odyssey, Plato’s Republic, the various works of Establishing some common point of reference for Aristotle, the Greek tragedies – have all seeped into Greek Americans nationwide is as important as ever. our education as Americans. They appear in social Being united by Greek ethnicity at some point in our studies curricula in elementary school and in blood line is insufficient if our goal is a long-lasting English literature and world history courses in high community. That is why at HALC (Hellenic American school; they form the backbone of Philosophy 101 Leadership Council) we have embarked on a series and Great Books seminars in college; they are all a of national focus groups (both on-line and off-line) part of The Dictionary of Cultural Literacy: What to reveal a baseline cultural literacy that is shared by Every American Needs to Know. diverse groups of Greek-Americans. Following Professor Marinatos’ advice is easier than One of our most fascinating sessions featured ever. One doesn’t have to accept the challenge of Professor Nanno Marinatos, the head of the reading translations of Herodotus’ The Histories or Department of Classics and Mediterranean Studies Thucydides’ The Peloponnesian War without the guidance of a professor. Robert Strassler has produced the fantastic Landmark Ancient Histories series. In The Landmark Herodotus and The Landmark Thucydides readers get not only the translated text, but hundreds of maps, appendices that explain ancient Greek religion, customs, economy, ways of warfare, and margin notes that allow the reader to easily review the text. For those that find the 700+ pages in each Landmark History too daunting, fear not – historians and novelists have provided options that will do the trick for you. Professor Paul Cartledge of Cambridge University puts you down right in the midst of a Spartan phalanx with Thermopylae: the Battle that Changed the World and After Thermopylae: The Oath of Plataea and the End of the Graeco-Persian Wars. Cornell’s Barry Strauss leaves readers in awe of Themistocles and trireme warfare in The Battle of Salamis. Stephen Pressfield brings Herodotus to life in The Gates of Fire, a novel that will make you wish you were by Leonidas’ side at Thermopylae. Donald Kagan, Mary Renault and Stephen Pressfield (again) all make Thucydides more accessible as well.
In 2017 let us all resolve to embark on a new journey together, a journey to rediscover Hellenism. Let us start with Professor Marinatos’ simple suggestion; the books above and many more make it an easy enough task. For those who would like to take it to the next level, contact us at culturalliteracy@hellenicleaders.com to participate in our focus groups on Hellenism. 18
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017 STRATEGY
CAPE FEAR CHAPTER 408 Established December 14, 1961 50 Years Promoting Hellenic Values
Merry Chrismas ! 2017 wishes from the AHEPA family of Wilmington, North Carolina Health, Joy, Progress Nick Lazaridis
Bill Batuyios
Jim Stasios
President
Vice President
Secretary-Treasurer
AHEPA HOUSE, 109 North Kerr Avenue, Wilmington, North Carolina 28405
Everything Ready for the Leadership 100 Annual Conference
Dr. Anthony S. Papadimitriou, President of Alexander S. Onassis Benefit Foundation
James S. Chanos, Pioneering Investment Manager, Founder of Kynikos Associates LP
The 26th Annual Leadership 100 Conference will convene at the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Manalapan, Florida from February 9-12, 2017. The program speakers will feature Dr. Anthony S. Papadimitriou, President of the Onassis Foundation, which is a member of Leadership 100, and the pioneering investment manager, James S. Chanos, also a member. In addition, the Emmy Awardwinning actor, musician and author Jonathan Jackson will speak as well as perform with his brother, the actor and musician Richard Lee Jackson. The dynamic Director of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Youth & Young Adult
Jonathan Jackson, Emmy Award Winning Actor and Musician
Other events include a Wine Testing Reception hosted by Leadership 100 member Gus Kalaris, featuring the Axios and Kalaris wines, the Welcome Reception, the Hellenic Glendi and the concluding Grand Banquet, as well as Golf and Tennis Tournaments and Awards, and a Walk/Run. Elaine Cotronakis and Maria Behrakis will once again chair the youth program.
Steven Christoforou, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Earlier this fall, Chairman George S. Tsandikos announced that Leadership 100 has reached its decades-long goal of 1,000 memberships. “We are delighted to announce that Dr. Aristotle Michopoulos, Professor and Chairman of the Classics and the Greek Studies Department at Hellenic College in Brookline, Massachusetts, is our 1,000th member. He is one of 30 new members to join to date in 2016.”
The General Assembly will hear reports from the regular meetings of the Executive Committee and Tsandikos stated further: “We are truly grateful to the Board of Trustees. Also scheduled is the orientation great work of our Membership Committee, Chaired of new members and first-time attendees, and an by Ted Zampetis, the dedicated efforts of our Board of Trustees and our members, and the steadfast commitment of our Executive Director, Paulette Poulos, in reaching this historic goal. The fact that our 1,000th member is a professor at Hellenic College is of symbolic importance as Hellenic College/Holy Cross School of Theology has been a major recipient of our grants, especially including scholarships for seminarians. With such an increased membership, we will be able to expand our grants.” Dr. Michopoulos said, “I am proud to join this prestigious organization of Christian stewards, Hellenes and philHellenes who support the ministries of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and promote and advance Orthodoxy and Hellenism.”
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, Manalapan, Florida Ministries, Steven Christoforou, will speak at the Opening Forum. The traditional and inspirational Bible Study and Lecture of Archbishop Demetrios, Geron of America, will set the tone for the program and proceedings. 26
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017 NEWS & NOTES
According to Paulette Poulos, the members who have joined to date in 2016 come from seven Metropolises and the Direct Archdiocesan District. “On June 5th, we welcomed five new members from Icon/Obelisk presentation to new and fulfilled Zampetis’ home Metropolis of Detroit, including his members. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy will be two granddaughters as Junior Members, bringing to celebrated on Sunday at St. Mark Church in Boca seven the members of his family who belong to Raton. Leadership 100.”
Memories from the Arizona Conference
Dimitrios Ziozis and Dr. Neofytos Stefanides
Argyris and Ann Vassiliou, Bill Georgas, George Tsandikos
Michael, Nick and Dr. Elaine Bapis and Dr. Stilianos Efstratiadis
Stephanie and Thanasi Liakos, children Constantine and Margo Liakos, George and Margo Behrakis
Stephania Patsalis, Fran Karivalis, Paulette Poulos, Dina Theodosakis and Marissa Costidis
Kids of L100 members with Maria Behrakis
Yanni Sianis, George Pantelidis and Kostas Alexakis NEWS & NOTES DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017
27
Memories from the Arizona Conference
Athena Kalemkeridis and Elaine Cotronakis
Seated: Stella Pantelidis, Stephanie Pantelidis, Elizabeth Pantelidis, Antonia Bregianos and Vicky Palivos. Standing: Paul Bregianos, Peter Palivos and Peter Pantelidis
Drs. Peter and Neofitos Stephanides and a friend
Stephanie and Stella Pantelidis
Pavlos Yeroulanos, Mike Manatos, Eirini Yeroulanos, Peter Poulos and Nikos Trivoulidis
Byron Zanopoulo, a friend, Dr. Iakovos Koutras and Angelica Spanos
Athina Passiou
Chrystan Skefos and Angelique Roussalis
Drs. Tania Lingos and Andrew Webb, John and Tatiana Lingos Webb
Maria Pardalis with a friend
Youth and beauty in abundance
Franklin Sisson, Paul and Denise Skoutelas and Catherine Rafferty
Anna and Joseph Kokolakis
Dr. George and Despina Koulianos
James Pantelidis with band
28
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017 NEWS & NOTES
Says Entrepreneur, Philanthropist & Community Leader
by Athena Efter
JOHN SAKELLARIS:
The restaurant industry, which plays a big role in his philanthropic endeavors, is where Mr. Sakellaris got his start. Food and generosity go hand-in-hand. It’s pretty much the Greek standard for the expression of gratitude, kindness and philoxenia (or hospitality in English). Food is always the way to a person’s heart, so as a young man, with nothing but the shirt on his back, in a foreign country, where he didn’t know the language, it was only natural to find himself at the local diners, where food, At the Pan Gregorian Annual Gala in John Sakellaris' honor. From brotherhood, and community gave left, Mihali Papas (grandson), Evdoxia (daughter) Zoe (daughter), you a place to call home. It was there John Sakellaris, Vasilia Logothetis(daughter), Yanni that you ate your breakfast, lunch and Sakellaris-Logothetis (grandson), Manolis Logothetis (grandson) dinner with your extended Greek and Irene Sakellaris-Papas (daughter) family, even if they weren’t your This past November, at the 32nd Annual Pan cousins or brothers, but simply true-blue friends Gregorian Charity Ball, John Sakellaris, a you discovered on your journey. Sakellaris, like all restaurateur himself, a philanthropist, and new immigrants was willing to do whatever it takes community activist was honored for his to support himself. No job was beneath him or above philanthropic contributions to our community him. He started out as a dishwasher/busboy/waiter, through his political activism and tireless efforts to became a short-order cook, and eventually a head give back. This recognition came handy for a man chef, but a leader is a leader. He knew he had more to who left his native island of Carpathos with just a offer as a leader. He may not, at first, have seen pair of pants to start his own successful business and himself as that leader. As he so eloquently and become one of the founding members and a Board honestly put “the choice to work in restaurants was of Trustee of the P.G.E.I of America (Pan Gregorian not necessarily a choice, but born out of necessity, to Enterprises), a cooperative of restaurateurs that feed your family.” He married his childhood provides incentives to members by offering better sweetheart, Zoe, with whom he reconnected here in prices on products and services for their businesses. New jersey. She met him when he had nothing but that pair of pants, but stood by him every step of the John Sakellaris has not forgotten his humble roots. way. She, too, knew he had something of great value, As a young man from the village of the Greek as a human being, to offer to his family and his Dodecanese island of Karpathos, he came here at the community. A father of three daughters: Vasilia, age of 17, with a few pennies in his pockets, but he Irene, and Evdoxia. and three grandsons--Emanuel, knew, as a seaman in the Greek navy, it was either Yanni, and Mihali--family is important to Mr. sink or swim! He didn’t exactly swim to the shores of Sakellaris, but not just his immediate family, but our New Jersey, but he found a way to sail here, straight entire extended Greek family and the Greek into his American dream. He attributes his success, Orthodox Church which, in 2011, in recognition of as a businessman and entrepreneur, to the his services awarded him the high honor of Archon community that gave him a place at the dinner table, Offikion Ypommimatographos, a title bestowed and a reason to work when they hired him to clear upon him by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew. the breakfast table, which turned into the lunch and His induction into the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle coincided with that of then Republican Party dinner table. 34
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017 COVER STORY
Chairman Reince Priebus who was appointed Chief of Staff by President-Elect Donald Trump. His commitment to our community and issues affecting Greece and Cyprus, extended into his sojourn as Deputy Mayor of Jersey City, from 19851989, under the Mayor R. Cucci. His passion and determination to immerse himself in causes, where he could be an influential doer made a big difference. Jersey City, at that time, had a prevalent Greek presence. So how does a man who starts out washing dishes and flipping hamburgers, become appointed by the Jersey City Mayor to such a high honor? Is it because he learned the secrets of the restaurant trade, to eventually buy his own restaurant, and another, and very successfully, or is it because he never forgot where he came from? He attributes that honor to his devotion and belief in the Greek word philanthropia. To non-Greeks, that would be philanthropy, the golden word that defines our ethics and our ethos, and its unlimited value. His strong commitment and generosity to our community over the years became the reason people started turning to him and not to City Hall. PHOTO: DIMITRIOS PANAGOS
"If you forget where you came from, !" ng oi g e ar ou y re he w ow kn 't on d ou y
John Sakellaris during his induction into the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle with then Republican Party Chairman Reince Priebus who was later appointed Chief of Staff by President-Elect Donald Trump
Our chat was an honest and candid one. There was no pretense or boasting to be found in his words, but an honest story of who he was, where he came from, and why it’s important to never forget that. His success as a human being first is what matters to him. Mr. Sakellaris embodies that noble soul of a gentleman who reaches not just into his pocket, but straight into his heart, to give what he feels is his gift of gratitude for the success that he achieved. He also knew that, at the time, successful leadership means taking risks. As he put it, “Your other option, as a Greek immigrant, besides working in
Sakellaris’ guidance and the New Jersey Federation of Hellenic Societies were able to raise $150,000 dispersed over various charitable causes in Greece, among them being the Elpida Hospital, the first oncology hospital for children in Greece.
John & Zoe Sakellaris at the Pan Gregorian Annual Gala with Consul General of the Hellenic Republic Kostas Koutras
I’ve now learned to never underestimate the value of a good old fashioned all-American beef patty, followed by a slice of American apple pie at a great diner, where I can also find good old-fashioned Greek comfort food, like pasticchio (Greek lasagna) and moussaka. It’s a comfort and inspiration to know that the man who once flipped burgers and served them to us, has bigger fish to fry now. He’s planning the next charitable goal on the community menu - to bring you your child’s new classroom and your and your grandmother’s retirement home.
Sakellaris, for his service to the Greater Greek- Of course, I had to ask this very generous man the American Community, referring to his service as “a question that is on many people’s minds. Why “Pan testament to his commitment to Foundations”. In Gregorian”? What does that mean? That’s not a another letter, Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno Greek name, is it?” Good thing I asked. He also has a congratulates him for his “work ethic and passion” very generous sense of humor, which was followed that “have led him to become a true advocate for by one of those full belly laughs: “Now, you asked hardworking small business owners throughout the right question! Pan-Gregorian was a very big New Jersey”. His commitment to better the mistake. I wanted it to be Pan-Hellenic Fund, but communities he serves have been invaluable. He something happened at the time of incorporation was that small business owner starting out once too, and it didn’t work out that way, so the word only to make it his “big business” now to give back Gregorian, which is the name for the Armenian Orthodox religion remained”. Well, we may not be He recounted the story of a young, handsome and support you. united 100% in our ...orthodoxy, through some congressman of Italian-American descent who came all the way from southern New Jersey to northern New Jersey to campaign for governor. His cousin hailed from from the same Jersey parts as Mr. Sakellaris, so why not go to the diner and have a cup of coffee and chat with the locals? It’s a good thing he did. Mr. Sakellaris found in him a hope for the future he wanted to see built for his children and the community’s children. He shared a carmarderie with him. This young aspiring politician was a second-generation Italian with grandparents from Italy. He wanted to see him rise to the occasion of his goal, especially as this young politician was so deeply active and supportive of Greek issues and Greek-Cypriot issues, and who travelled to Greece many times. He saw in him an educated man who was full of passion, hope and determination to make a difference as a philhellene. In turn, this young Italian-American gentleman found a true Hellene in Metropolitan Evangelos of New Jersey, Tassos Efstratiades, then President of the Hellenic Federation of New John Sakellaris - a man who puts community, Jersey, members of the Board, George Siamboulis, President of Pangregorian New Jersey, and dignitaries offer education, and family above all else. John Sakellaris the Alexander the Great Award of Merit the Hellenic Federation's highest distinction This young Italian-American man was James Florio, who would become Governor of New Jersey. On that day, John Sakellaris channeled his own inner leader by supporting several politicians committed to Philhellenic causes. These politicians included Senator Bill Bradley, Senator Robert Menendez, Senator Paul Sarbanes, Congressman Bill Pascrell, the late U.S Representative Donald M. Payne and Florida State Representative Gus Bilirakis. But if you’re helping governors and senators, why stop there? He had presidential candidates to consider. In 1987, he joined the Michael Dukakis Presidential Committee and in 1992, the Paul Tsongas Presidential Committee, becoming one of their strongest supporters. In his letter addressing the P.G.E.I Fund of America Charitable Foundation 32nd Annual Charity Dinner Ball, Governor Chris Christie offers a special congratulatory message to the event honoree, John
Through the New Jersey chapter, Mr. Sakellaris has also been an instrumental force, over the years, in raising funds and soliciting support for various causes serving children, schools, and the elderly of our community. The P.G.E.I Charitable Foundation of which he is Chairman, has raised over two million dollars for the Greek Children’s Fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Cyprus Children’s Fund, W.T.C. Relief Fund – Victims of 9-11, Deborah Hospital – Heart and Lung Center. St. Basil’s Academy, and St. Michael’s Home for the Aged, and several other charities. Currently, he is working with the Metropolis of New Jersey to start a Greek parochial school system that educates students in our Hellenic values. Another big endeavor he mentioned is to start a retirement and nursing home for the elderly. In the meantime, the P.G.E.I. Charitable Foundation under Mr.
equally small or big mistake, but, as people universally we will can always be united through a Greek sense of philanthropy. And John Sakellaris knows that his first duty, as a Greek, is philanthropia! He left me with some very wise words that will always stay with me on my own journey and want to share with our readers: “If you forget where you came from, you don’t know where you are going. It’s important because you see people today – the poor – kids have no jobs in Greece. We remember those times. We lived them. We were there once too. We have to help people whenever we can. To remember is rooted in us because we lived that experience. Philanthropy came out of Greece and we have to believe in it.” As long as there are people like Mr. Sakellaris in this world, continuing to give and always remembering, we will too.
COVER STORY DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017
35
PHOTO: ETA PRESS
restaurants, was to work in a factory. The factory was good for the worker. You couldn’t easily open your own factory, but you could open your own restaurant eventually.” And that’s what he did. And then he opened another. The restaurant became a social place, where congressmen and politicians came to not only enjoy traditional Greek food, but also his talent on traditional plates of American fare, like scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast with endless refills of coffee, before starting their day.
John Calamos, Sr. Honored by Pan Arcadian Federation of America founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees at The National Hellenic Museum which was represented at the event by Trustee Aristotle P. Halikias, Tr ustee Dr. George Korkos, Trustee Konstantinos Armiros, Strategic Advisor Yanni Sianis, and Trustee and Interim President Dr. Laura Calamos. The first Arcadian societies were formed in John Calamos, Sr. is presented The Panagiotis Sekeris Award by His Grace urban centers to aid new immigrants, and in 1931 Demetrios, Bishop of Mokissos, Andreas Papantoniou, accompanied by the Pan Arcadian George Reveliotis, George Sourounis, and Konstantinos Kapogianis. Federation of America was PHOTO BY GANP/DIMITRIOS PANAGOS formed to promote John Calamos, Sr., was honored by the Pan Arcadian Hellenism among the first generations born to Federation of America. Their highest award was Arcadian immigrants. The father of Calamos, Peter conveyed at the group’s 73rd National Convention, Calamos, came to the United States during World War I, from a small village near Tripoli, Greece. organized this year by the Midwest District. Established in Chicago in 1960, the Pan Arcadian The Pan Arcadian Federation of America (PFA) is a Federation continues to support the work of the nationwide Greek-American organization whose General Panarcadian Hospital of Tripolis, along with members descend from the region of Arcadia in the p r o v i d i n g o t h e r Peloponnese, southern Greece. The fraternal non- p h i l a n t h r o p i c a n d profit is dedicated to the promotion of the ideals of educational outreach. Hellenism, the principles of Democracy, and the preservation of the Greek language and cultural Calamos has long been a supporter of a variety heritage. of Greek-American Calamos is the Founder, Chairman, and Global Chief o r g a n i z a t i o n s a n d Investment Officer of Naperville-based Calamos causes. In addition to Investments, a global asset manager (calamos.com). the National Hellenic The Federation presented him with the Panagiotis M u s e u m , h e i s a Sekeris Award, for his lifetime of philanthropic supporting member of contributions to the larger community. He is also co-
The Hellenic Initiative, the National Hellenic Society, and Leadership 100. Recently he was honored by the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, becoming an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for his stewardship of time, talent and John Calamos, Sr. treasure for the betterment of the Church, making an oath to defend the Orthodox Christian faith and tradition. Arcadians like Calamos share a great sense of pride, respect, and appreciation for their history and heritage, including a love of freedom and the desire to achieve greatness. Pan Arcardian Federation of America President Kostas Kapogianis and Convention Chairman, George Reveliotis also recognized Gregory Roumpos, the late Kostas P. Papantonious, and Dr. James G. Kallins, MD. with honors at the event.
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Merry Christmas & A ...Constructive New Year!
Michael Psaros with his wife Robin and son after receiving the Homeric Award from Chian Federation President John Kontolios. With ther are, Master of Ceremonies John Metaxas, Consul General of the Hellenic Republic Kostas Koutras along with members of the Chian Federation Board.
MICHAEL PSAROS RECEIVES HOMERIC AWARD Michael G. Psaros, a member of the Leadership 100 Board of Trustees and co-Founder and co-Managing Partner of KPS Capital Partners, LP, was honored with the 37th Homeric Award by the Chian Federation this past December, at the Hellenic Cultural Center of the Chian Federation in Astoria, New York.
Under Psaros, KPS investments are credited with saving tens of thousands of premium US industrial and manufacturing jobs. KPS portfolio companies have aggregate annual revenues of approximately $5 billion and operate approximately 100 manufacturing facilities in more than 20 countries, employing 40,000 associates, both directly and through joint ventures worldwide.
Psaros, who is a major philanthropist and advocate of Hellenic and Orthodox causes, was recently appointed Treasurer of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Council. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Rev. Robert Stephanopoulos, George Tsandikos, Archdiocesan Council. Psaros is an Chairman Leadership 100, Michael Psaros and Markos Marinakis Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Order of St. Andrew The Homeric Award, presented annually to distinguished individuals, advocates of human the Apostle and serves on the National Council of rights, democratic ideals and persons who have the Order. He is also a Founding Member of Faith: An excelled in furthering human knowledge, is one of Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism, a member of the Board of The Hellenic Initiative and serves on the Parish Council of the Church of Our Saviour in Rye, New York. Michael and his wife, Robin, are benefactors of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in New York and the Orthodox Church in Korea, Sierra Leone, Mexico and Peter & Aphrodite Skeadas Philip Christopher, President Jerusalem. In 2013, they created with Ambassador Vassilis Philippou of PSEKA, with Nikos Fillas The Robin and Michael Psaros Endowed Chair in Business the most prestigious awards presented by the Greek American Community. Among its recipients were Administration at Georgetown University’s former U.S. President Jimmy Carter; Constantine McDonough School of Business, where Psaros Karamanlis, President of Greece; Archbishop serves as Vice Chairman of the Executive Board of I a k o v o s ; S p e a k e r o f t h e U . S . H o u s e o f Advisors. He also serves on the Board of Advisors of Representatives Tip O’Neil, and Senators Paul the Georgetown University Center for Financial Sarbanes, Edward Kennedy, Olympia Snowe and Bill Markets and Policy. He received the BSBA in Finance from Georgetown University and attended Sophia Bradley. University in Tokyo, Japan.
Nikos and son Elias Fillas with members of their families and friends
Members of the youth
Psaros, who is of Chian origin, has received many awards and recognition, including the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Award for Excellence, the Humanitarian Award from the Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund, the Executive of the Year Award from the Hellenic American Bankers Association and the Inspiration Award from the Loukoumi Foundation. He also was NEO's cover in January 2015. The Chian Federation is a community-based, nonprofit organization composed of societies representing various parts of the Greek island of Chios. The mission of the Chian Federation is to help those in need and to promote Greek culture and language in the United States. At his acceptance speech Mr. Psaros pledged $100,000 in matching funds to support the Aegean Sea Islands, among the Chios, in order to cope with the influx of refugees and illegal immigrants.
Michael Psaros and John Kontolios with members of the Chian Federation dancing troupe 48
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2017 NEWS & NOTES
(L to R) Konstantinos Polykarpou, Leon Andris, Colonel Panagiotis Kavidopoulos, Mike Manatos
OXI Day in Washington: Honoring Veterans and Remembering Greece's Historic Courage
Lt. Col. George Vergidis and Col. Panagiotis Kavidopoulos Sean O'Keefe, former Administrator of NASA, introduced former Senator Ted Stevens, the American veteran who posthumously received the Greatest Generation Award. The late senator's wife, Catherine Stevens, accepted the award on his behalf. Previous recipients of this Award have included: former Senator, astronaut and American hero John Glenn (2015); former Congressman Ralph Hall (2014); the longest-serving Member of Congress John Dingell (2013); former Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Ben Gilman (2012); and former nominee for President of the United States and Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (2011).
Admiral Jim Stavridis and Jim Chanos
Peggy Sotirhos Nicholson and John Payiavlas On October 27, the Washington based OXI Day Foundation honored three distinguished World War II veterans - a Greek-American, a Greek, and an American - with the Greatest Generation Awards at a moving ceremony. This year, they also honored a Korean War veteran with the first annual Jaharis Service Award. While the ceremony usually takes place at the National World War II Memorial, this year, due to inclement weather, it was held on Capitol Hill in a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing room. 50
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Jim Chanos introduced Admiral Jim Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO Global Operations, who accepted the Greatest Generation Award on behalf of his father, Colonel George Stavridis. Previous recipients of this Award have included: James Moshovitis (2015); Nicholas J. Bouras and Sam Bouras (2014); Lt. Col. Christopher Mehiel (2013); Brig. Gen. Mike P. Cokinos (2012); and Andrew A. Athens (2011). Colonel Panagiotis Kavidopoulos, Defense AttachĂŠ, Embassy of Greece, introduced Dimitrios Itsios, the heroic Greek who posthumously received the Greatest Generation Award. Lieutenant Colonel George Vergidis accepted the award on behalf of the Itsios family. Previous recipients of this Award have included: General George Douratsos (2015); Admiral Ioannis Toumbas (2014); Lt. Gen. Konstantinos Korkas (2013); Antonios Kounalakis (2012); and Panagiotis Sakellaris (2011).
Sean O'Keefe and Catherine Stevens Peggy Sotirhos Nicholson, Executive Director of the Jaharis Family Foundation, introduced John Payiavlas, the first recipient of the Jaharis Service Award. Payiavlas, a Korean War veteran, was recognized for his dedicated service to his country and to the community in the spirit of Michael Jaharis. On October 28, the Foundation participated in a poignant wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The wreath was laid by Washington Oxi Day Foundation Executive Director Mike Manatos, the Greek Embassy's Defense AttachĂŠ Colonel Panagiotis Kavidopoulos, Foundation Treasurer Leon Andris and Cyprus Embassy Consul Konstantinos Polykarpou.
One Potato, Two Tomato, Three Potato…
United Brothers Fruit Markets Brings You More with Apples Galore
However, whether it is for an out- of-season vegetable or an imported rare exotic fruit, we work hard to keep the prices low, even if sometimes it takes a small bite out of our margins. Do you keep up with food trends? Two trends are going on now that are almost in opposite directions. You have people wanting produce, like apples that are not GMO, but they also might want the Dragon Fruit which is imported. To this extent, we keep a fairly good balance between localization and globalization. With so much change in the neighborhood, how does it feel to be a real landmark in Astoria? We perceive the term landmark with respect, but we strive to be an open-minded and customer- centric business that is aiming to develop a long-term relationship with our customers. I noticed a recent addition, the Apple House. What made apples such a popular selling point? Was this addition part of your expansion plan?
The New York Times calls it the “Parthenon of Produce”, but with its rustic charm, luscious orange tomatoes, purple pepper passion, fragrant green herbs, and red delicious empire apples, I call it NYC’s vegan-friendly backyard farmers’ market. Open 24 hours, seven days a week, United Bothers Fruit Markets, a fresh produce store located on the corner of 33rd Street and 30th Avenue, is the place where no two people alike, from hipsters to Greek Grandmas, shop for their fruits and veggies, even at 3 AM! I’ve been shopping there for years, and very loyally. It’s now December and those fragrant sprigs of rosemary and thyme I purchased in September are still going strong and aromatic in my freezer, saving me dollars and spicing up my winter stew. I interviewed its owner Tom Kourkoumelis, who shares with us below the secrets to his success:
supermarkets and local farmers’ markets The farm-to-store idea was floating around for quite cropping up? How do you respond to this new some time, and with the Apple House, we planted the seeds for that effort. We started with the apples standard of a healthier food culture? because it is an iconic yet indispensable fruit in our We do not feel that we compete with the everyday diet, if not in our culture. In the process, supermarkets because fresh produce is only a we aspire to make United Brothers a store where the portion of their business. Farmers’ Markets, on the customers will come to buy fresh, locally sourced other hand, are a growing trend, but they lack the produce, get a made-on-the-spot juice or smoothie, daily physical presence. Hence, with much of our turn their apples into apple juice to take home, or do produce in our store being locally sourced, in all of the above. We truly believe that a healthy essence, we are a 24-hours-seven-days a week lifestyle is a way of life. farmer’s market. How important is it to your business to support local and independent farmers? Almost 85 percent of the produce we carry comes from small independent farmers from Long Island, Upstate New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. United Brothers was one of the first, if not the first store in Astoria, that headed toward that direction. Our customers appreciate it knowing that when With the business moving forward, how do you buying local produce, they support local, family- think that your employees work to contribute to operated businesses. its success?
How did you begin selling produce? Was agriculture something you always had an interest in? I was familiar with the business of selling produce ever since I was a young boy, helping my father. The business in its initial steps was founded, as a collective effort, by myself and my brothers, Jerry and George, and two other brothers, Spiro and How do you respond to seasonal changes? Do Damianos Matafias, who joined us alongside. supply and demand make a difference in what you sell? Does it affect sales at all? How long have you been in Astoria? We relocated from Washington Heights to our Seasonal changes affect the prices, especially in a multi-ethnic city like New York where customers current location in 1978. desire tomatoes all year long, even though it is a You have one of the largest fruit and vegetable seasonal fruit. Many millennials, on the other hand, stores in Astoria. Do you find that competition to whom Astoria is home, are a cost-conscious group has increased with additional fruit stores, that also want the highest standard of food quality.
We approach our business based on teamwork because it is the only way to promote cooperation among the employees and to facilitate a strong sense of community. I noticed you have a .29 per pound area for produce that is still edible, but has to be eaten or cooked within a day or two. How do you manage the produce that doesn’t sell right away? Most people do not like fruits and vegetables that look very, very ripe. We thought a few years ago what if a discount section could help minimize any produce waste and, to our wonder, the section empties out by midday. Customers tell us about all the recipes and the various ways they use the produce, whether they make it into cakes, marmalades, hummus, etc. But for those with narrow financial means, I believe that we do offer them a great helping hand because with affordable prices, they have the option to eat healthily and economically. P HOTO S: ETA P RESS
Left to right: Nikitas Drakotos, President of HANAC, Lisa Keller Yakas, Saky Yakas, Man or the Year, Ben Yakas (son) Evangeline Douris, Chairman of HANAC
Left - Hercules Hanjis and friends
Left to right: George Venizelos, Constantine Maroulis, Evangeline Douris, Margo & John Catsimatidis
Libby and Mike Angeliades
Architect Saky Yakas Honored at HANAC Annual Gala The Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee (HANAC) honored architect Saky Yakas, AIA, at its 44th annual gala at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in New York City. Approximately 400 guests, including Vassilis Philippou, the Consul General of the Republic of Cyprus, Emmanuel Koubarakis, the Consul of Greece in New York, US Representative Carolyn Maloney, New York City Council Member Costas Constantinides, and New York State Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas attended the event, which began at 7:30pm with cocktails, followed by dinner and awards. Comedian Basile Katsikis was master of ceremonies, and the evening included a dance performance by children from various HANAC programs. 58
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This year’s recipient of the Man of the Year award was Saky Yakas, AIA, a partner at the New York Citybased SLCE Architects firm. According to a HANAC press release, Yakas was chosen because he “has been the partner-in-charge of numerous low income, special needs and senior housing, schools and institutional projects. His experience with the governmental funding and approval processes has helped initiate and develop numerous successful housing and mixed-use projects for multiple nonprofit organizations. In 2009, the George T. Douris Tower, the crown jewel of HANAC facilities, opened its doors to provide spacious, affordable housing to low income seniors. Serving as its design
Honoree Saky Yakas
by Cindy Klimek and managing architect, Saky was instrumental in the creation of a state-of-the-art senior housing facility that continues to serve as a standard.” Yakas, who is also a two-time cancer survivor, is currently helping to build two more senior living facilities for HANAC. The 2016 Volunteer of the Year award went to Eileen Baker, a longtime HANAC supporter. According to co-founder and Chairwoman Evangeline Douris, Baker was chosen because she “selflessly volunteers countless hours to the George T. Douris JVL Harmony Senior Center.” Ms. Baker also sits on the Center’s Advisory Council. P HOTO S: ETA P RESS
Entrepreneur & philanthropist Andy Zoitas with Dennis Yuelys, HANAC Board member and Steven Tsavaris, President Ponce de Leon Bank
The gala is a favorite of Chairwoman Douris, who says, “I like the positive response to the fundraising from the community and from our partners, and to HANAC’s commitment to improving the lives of people in need. I love the euphoria felt at the culmination of a successful event. And I absolutely adore creating the flower arrangements with my florist Louis from Avenue J Florists. I also love the venue, the Mandarin Oriental. HANAC was the first to hold an event there when it opened five years ago.”
Eileen Baker, Volunteer of the Year and Evangeline Douris
A rapidly-expanding organization means constant obstacles, but Douris says HANAC is up to the task. “The challenge, as always, is acquiring the necessary funding for existing and future programs. Through the years, HANAC has continuously accepted the challenges presented and responded. Whether assisting immigrants to acclimate to their new country, youngsters to explore their talent and accept new responsibilities, families to confront the problem of poverty, dysfunction, and drugs, or the elderly to enjoy their leisure time and sustain their health. But the challenge in the future will be the elderly. HANAC must continue to fulfill its commitment to developing affordable housing with services for the elderly who are of modest financial means. In November, groundbreaking of our fourth affordable senior housing development took place, scheduled to open in 2018. A fifth project is expected to open in 2019. In addition to housing, senior centers, and other services designed to serve the needs of the elderly, HANAC must address the high incidence of mental health issues among the elderly that are being brought to our attention. In response to that need, HANAC has submitted an application to the State Office of Mental Health for the establishment of a mental health clinic that will fill a vacuum in services for the community. Lastly, my initiative this year will be to interest young people to embrace HANAC in order to ensure that its mission continues. I am proud of the work we have done and look forward to meeting the challenges ahead of us,” she says.
HANAC was founded in 1972, with a contract from the New York City Human Resource Administration to provide assistance to Greek immigrants in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, NY. According to Douris, HANAC ’s mission was “to provide education, vocational training, and support services to enable everyone to reach their full potential.” Today, the organization is funded by City, State, and Federal agencies and offers a wide range of services to youth, the elderly, and immigrants for diverse and multi-ethnic communities across four boroughs. Adds Douris, “I believe the mission has not changed. The 45th annual gala will be held on Friday, October What has changed is HANAC’s extraordinary growth 27, 2017, though no word yet on who the Man of the from a very small grassroots organization into one of To learn more about HANAC, their website is the largest city-wide multi-faceted social service hanac.org Year or Volunteer of the Year will be. agency, serving 35,000 people a year.”
“Snob Duck” from handmade soaps r ue Tripolis conq the world! Vasilis Douros talks to NEO Magazine about starting a soap company in Greece and making it a runaway success in the middle of a financial crisis
by Kelly Fanarioti When successful people get asked how they accomplished something brilliant despite the hardships they faced they usually respond, “There is, no I can’t. There’s only, I want to.” This also seems to be the philosophy of 40-year-old Vasilis Douros, who started his own business in Tripolis in central Peloponnese just when the Greek economy was tanking. Greek companies always had to face a myriad of obstacles—but Vasili defied the odds with a product you never imagined would sell in a country with plummeting salaries and ballooning unemployment: a handmade soap called “Snob Duck.” And it’s not only flying off the shelves in Greece, but also being exported to Europe and America--so apparently he beat the odds.
about risk. “It all started with plain curiosity,” he tells NEO. “And when I first came up with the idea, I thought this was a way to use the remaindered olive oil from my family’s olive grove. So I did, and I was excited by the whole process, because I had the chance to tinker with many different materials and do whatever I wanted.”
advantages and disadvantages. One of its negative aspects is that I have no time to travel, visit expeditions, increase the number of my customers and meet the customers I already have. Personal contact and the pursuit of new market pathways are always necessary. On the other hand, I am the boss of myself and this is the dream of many working people.” The process
That was the start of a new professional journey for him, which he couldn’t even imagine years ago. Now he has orders from all over Greece, he exports his soap to New York, Cyprus, Germany and Spain, and he has willing suitors in famous multinational companies and interviews with the major media from all around the world, such as Monocle and The
Vasilis says the process of making handmade soap is simple and quick. What delays the process is maturation, which can take six to eight weeks.
“I use the cold method for my products. I use two bases. The first one includes the oils I use, like olive oil, coconut oil and almond oil, and the other one includes water and caustic soda. Sometimes I use fruit or Vasilis Douros, herb juices instead of water. When I founder of "Snob Duck" mix these materials I blend them handmade soaps slowly and ‘saponification’ starts. This means that, soda reacts with the oils and the soap begins to thicken, it becomes more viscous, like honey.” He then puts the mixture in molds and lets it sit a whole day, until it becomes solid. The next day, he cuts it into pieces and puts it on shelves to mature. Maturation is necessary because all the liquid substances must evaporate, so that the soap is ready for use. Recently, he launched something very innovative for Greece: the oneuse soap. This is thin bars of soap, melting on the body during a bath, and sold in a metallic box. As Vasilis told me, this is the first time something like this has appeared in Greece. Success
Wall Street Journal. And he did this in only five years What makes Vasili’s story remarkable is how a totally on his own and through only the buzz in boutique soap like this could attract so many loyal It began when he first learned about how the social media. customers, particularly in Greece, who could have women of a village in Tripolis used to make soaps chosen a soap a lot more economical. and decided to try it himself. Even though his own “Until now, I‘ve had no partners I do everything on background was in music and retail—though he did my own,” he says. “The soaps are totally handmade. “I know it’s a luxury nowadays, but luckily I have work for ski companies, so he knew something The ‘one man show,’ as I like to call it, has both many customers,” he says—with a grateful smile. In the Beginning
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Many of them, in fact, send him messages saying they As for the name Snob Duck: it was inspired by his haven’t used any other soap or shower gel since they stint living at the ski resort in Kalavryta. “I used to tried his. live next to a guest house with many ducks in the garden. Every morning when I left home to go to “Many people come in contact with me and this is work, they would follow me, but at the same time, also my own aim--as I always ask my customers about they didn’t let me go close to them. That’s how I got their opinion on my products. I want to receive the name. And, we also shouldn’t forget that ducks feedback and ask them what do they like and what are a symbol of cleanliness.” they don’t, because apart from the personal contact, which is a very important element, but difficult to “Of course there are difficulties, but…” find in our days, I also want to improve myself: to Having accomplished something special in times so know what people want and what they don’t.” tough, Vasilis seems the right person to ask for The success of Snob Duck soaps, both in Greece and advice, about young people who might have new abroad, is due to one man’s hard work, but also to ideas but are afraid to take the leap, or been discouraged by the high unemployment and his faith in the product and his own vision. difficulties the new generation in our country has to “Although it all started as an experiment, when I confront. decided to do it, I was persuaded that it would have success. Of course I don’t feel like a mentor, or like “The only thing I have to say is that there are indeed somebody who can give advice, but I was really many problems for a businessman in Greece. confident about myself and I believe that this was Endless bureaucracy, high taxation, and many other one of the most important factors that contributed obstacles for a person who wants to create something of his/her own, and it can easily to that success of the Snob Duck soaps.” disappoint them and make them give up. But are Another reason for the popularity of his products inactivity and nagging the solution to our problems? could be the quality of the materials he uses, which Of course, they’re not.” are 100% Greek. “My soaps contain what I also put on my kitchen table. I never use materials of inferior Working hard, being persistent and paying attention to quality are some of the “secrets” that can make a quality.” business plan viable and successful, he says. But also Including the packaging, which he supervises that he didn’t compromise, for example by himself, because he knows it’s the first thing his accepting the offer of an American multinational when he knew his product wasn’t ready for market. customers see.
“When you create something totally by hand and pay so much attention to quality and design you’re just not interested in selling just to make money. You have to keep the quality of the product high so people can trust you and keep on trusting you.” His future plans include increasing his workforce, so that he finally has time to travel, expand to new markets, and find new customers. “I believe that I’ll be able to move on to the next stage,” he says, with the same assurance that brought him this far. “I thank all those who trust in me and I promise to do my best so that my products remain of the highest quality, but at the same time affordable for everyone.”
FAITH Endowment Announces Summer 2017 Travel Grants to Ionian Village
For the tenth consecutive year, FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and Hellenism will award full and partial financial aid travel grants to qualifying campers participating in the 2017 Ionian Village summer camp program. “FAITH Travel Grants to Ionian Village” are primarily need-based financial aid awards; however, each applicant’s academic performance will also be weighed into the evaluation review process. Each year, Ionian Village participants travel across Greece and visit significant sites of Greek history, culture and the Greek Orthodox faith. At the end of each program, the campers return home with strengthened faith, lifelong friendships and an expanded appreciation for the Greek Orthodox Church and Hellenic culture. Mrs. Elaine Jaharis, a Founder of the FAITH Endowment, Ionian Village Alumna and Chair of the Committee spoke on behalf of the Founders of FAITH, “We are sincerely pleased to offer this transformative and spiritually enriching experience to young people who may not otherwise have the opportunity to connect to their Hellenic roots and Orthodox faith.” 62
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The application is now available at thefaithendowment.org/travelgra nt for participants of Session One and Session Two, ages 15-18. Completed applications must be received in the mail by the February 3, 2017 deadline. Full applicant criteria can be found at the link above. Applicants are encouraged to follow FAITH on Facebook (facebook.com/ faithendowment) for program updates and award notification timelines. Priority is given to high within the top of their graduating class. For more information about this and other programs, visit school seniors. thefaithendowment.org. In 2016, FAITH awarded 45 FAITH Travel Grants to Ionian Village to young people from FAITH: An Endowment for Orthodoxy and all metropolises across the United States who may Hellenism supports the development of innovative not otherwise have had the opportunity to travel to educational, cultural, and scholarship programs for young people that promote an understanding of the Greece. Orthodox faith, Hellenism, and the relationship of “FAITH supplied me with the grant that made the the two to America’s history and multicultural dream of Ionian Village attainable for me. I am so landscape. For more information, their phone thankful to have received such a blessing. Because of number is 212-644-6960. FAITH’s generosity, I was able to experience miracles, touch saints and make the best connections with my Greek Orthodox peers,” said Anna from Illinois, a 2016 FAITH Travel Grant to Ionian Village recipient. In addition to underwriting financial aid travel grants, FAITH sponsors the “FAITH Scholarships for Academic Excellence” program each year. This competitive meritbased scholarship series awards college scholarships to high school seniors ranked
“Ela Sto Trapezi Na Fame”: The Community Table & Charitable Faith at Aghia Paraskevi by Chris Salboudis funding and assistance for the dinners, which includes food and cooking supplies, cooking, food service once guests arrive, the purchase of sanitary supplies such as blankets, socks, toothpaste, etc.
The team of volunteers at Aghia Paraskevi
This is a truly vast undertaking and would be impossible to achieve without the kind donation of time, energy and good cheer of the many volunteers from each participating organization! “It is a wonderful partnership of many congregations within the community to assist those in need.” says Ministry Leader Demetra Doscas. “St. Paraskevi Greek Orthodox Church has been a member of the Huntington’s Interfaith Homeless Initiative since its inception. Volunteering time for the Homeless Ministry has been a truly rewarding experience. We hope one day to discontinue this ministry when homelessness no longer exists but until then, we will continue the Good Lord's commandment to love our brothers and sisters as ourselves by providing food, shelter and a listening ear to those in need.”
shacks in the woods to find those in need to bring them either here to St. Paraskevi or to one of the other locations hosting this daily effort. We offer them a hot meal and some good rest. We have volunteers buying all the things that are needed, cooking and helping to serve everyone. In the 21st century that’s not an easy thing to do. It’s not a day and age where we let strangers into our house easily. The best way to describe what we’re doing here is to think of the Good Samaritan gospel reading… or the reading in Matthew – you know it, ‘Whatsoever you do for the least of my brothers you did for me… when I was hungry you gave me food, and thirsty and needed clothes….’ You know, what those guys did 2000 years ago can be dangerous to try to do today, but it’s also the very basic thing we’re asked to do for others in need. It’s a good example to set for others also.”
A league of volunteers gather to help the homeless throughout the chilly winter months. Father Louis Nicholas, Gus Constantine, and Homeless Ministry Leaders Demetra Doscas and Anastasia Geotes of Aghia Paraskevi lead a group of volunteers in the All in all, the Huntington’s township of Huntington, Long Island to provide Interfaith Homeless Initiative is weekly lunches for the homeless. Aghia Paraskevi is proof to us that even in the hustle one of several Greek Orthodox Churches in the area and bustle of the twenty-first participating in Huntington’s Interfaith Homeless century people are able and Initiative. Over 30 churches, synagogues and willing to come together as community service organizations within the area G u s C o n s t a n t i n e , p r o u d witnesses and propagators of the participate in this program, taking alternate turns in grandfather of nine and author of Escaping Cyprus and Escaping miracle that this blessed holiday hosting and sponsoring a luncheon. Cyprus II: The Final Chapter, has season represents. Working together the team at Aghia The goal of this seasonal initiative is to ensure that held several positions in his nine Paraskevi instills and revitalizes the everyone in Huntington has warm bedding and years on the Parish Council at Aghia sense of hope, honor and basic shelter during the winter months, that they are able Paraskevi, including President. He to rest and be clean and – most of all – that no one and his wife Georgia are very strong supporters of human dignity in the hearts of those in need, the goes hungry. Every year from December through the program and do their best to pitch in as needed, best way Greeks know how… at the Common Table. March guests of every race, color, denomination, thereby setting a great example for their lovely etc. are welcome by a host of volunteers with a hot grandchildren and for many other members of the Want to pitch in? Contact Demetra Doscas and dinner; they are given shelter and a warm bed for the community. On January 26th Gus’ 11th and 12th Anastasia Geotes, the Homeless Ministry Leaders at evening and the next morning sent off with a hot grade students from the Sunday class will host a Aghia Paraskevi, at 631-261-7272. breakfast in their system as well as a bagged lunch to H.I.H.I. luncheon. enjoy later in the day. When asked what motivates For the proper safety of all guests and volunteers, the team of volunteers at Aghia individuals who are identified as needing assistance Paraskevi, Gus smiles and – whether they are homeless or hungry – are picked explains that no one is doing up at a central location and briefly screened prior to the work for the fame or the their arrival at the host site. The process is repeated glory, but simply because it is daily at different host sites so the duties and the right thing to do. He says responsibilities are shared by the various that even though the church participating institutions within the Huntington space is being renovated this year the church still maintains community. participation in this valuable This is St. Paraskevi’s 13th year participating in the effort. “We have lots of program; they host the dinner and overnight every volunteers for this program other Thursday from December 1st through the long and I’m glad to be a part of it.” winter months. Gus and Georgia Constantine, the he says, “People here have Philoptochos and GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth really teamed up – we’re one The luncheon set up for the homeless and the needy Association) Ministries of Aghia Paraskevi, and of many groups participating several of the Ministries within the church provide in the program – and go out to 64
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“Cinematic Plateau”: Film Scores by Tasso Zapanti In celebration of Black History month 2016, Tasso Zapanti released his score to the film ‘PROUD”. The movie, released in 2004 and starring Ossie Davis, Stephen Rea and Aidan Quinn, was written and directed by Mary Pat Kelly, who is also the author of the book “Proudly We Served”. It uncovers the true story of the first African Americans to serve in the navy’s front line during World War II
The live performance included five musicians – including guitarist extraordinaire Spiro Exaras - and five artists who painted in real time inspired by Tasso’s music. He also performed with an ensemble at a 2016 memorial for New York Islanders legendary coach, Al Arbour, in front of 1.000 Islanders fans.
The album includes music from two additional films scored by Tasso: “The Bronx War” written and directed by Joseph B. Vasquez (Hanging with the Homeboys), and “Black Cougar”, a super hero story written and directed by Silvio Disalvatore. All films are available on Netflix and DVD through Amazon.
Zapanti performed at a 2016 memorial for
Ta s s o h a s received an ASCAP-Gershwin award in composition presented by composer/conductor Morton Gould. He was an artist-in-residence at the Experimental Television center in Oswego New York and was included in Hollywood Reporter ’s “Who’s Who” in film and television composers.
The music on the album is a New York Islanders legendary coach, Al Arbour hybrid neo-classical, electroacoustic score composed, performed and produced by He has also written music for ABC’s news magazine Tasso Zapanti. Guest instrumentalists include Alex Foster Turning Point together with composer/guitarist Gary on clarinet and flute (leader of the Mingus Big Band and Lucas (Captain Beefheart). SNL house band), Ani Aznavoorian on cello, Sheila Horne on vocals (Parliament Funkadelic) and Joe Berger on CINEMATIC PLATEAU is available for digital download on electric guitar. Itunes & Amazon. It is also streaming on Pandora, Spotify and IHeart radio. Those interested can see a complete list His most recent live performances were at the 20th of his work on zapanti.com or you can find several music Anniversary ArtWalk /T.O.A.S.T, an annual art exhibit videos on YOUTUBE/TassoZapanti. collective by New York artists who live and work in TriBeCa.
Tasso Zapanti at John Varvatos' boutique
PHOTO: ANASTASSIOS MENTIS
BABIS TSERTOS REVIVED THE GREAT REMBETIKA SONGS IN A CAPTIVATING NEW YORK CITY CONCERT kanonaki and as a singer. She sung several AKTINA and CYPRECO in their endeavors of everlasting classics including the great hits by promoting the representative music of Greece”. Panagiotis Tountas, “Garsona” (The Waitress), “Lili I Skandaliara” (Lili the troublemaker). In his welcoming remarks Babis Tsertos thanked the audience and especially the organizers and Elena Maraoulleti, the concert’s Executive Producer for inviting him to perform in New York City and for their commitment to “always produce concerts which highlight the representative aspects of Greek music”. Greek legendary singer Babis Tsertos and his band revived the Great Rembetika of Greece (Greek blues) before a full house of guests this past November at the Kaye Playhouse theater in Manhattan during a captivating performance from the concert series, “Greek Music Journey” copresented by the non-profit cultural organizations, AKTINA Productions, Inc., and CYPRECO Of America, Inc. The concert which lasted for 2 ½ hours covered all three major eras of the rembetiko (rembetika plural), starting from 1922-1932, a period dominated by elements of the music of Smyrna, followed by 1932-1942, the classic period and 19421952 the period when the rembetiko was widespread and accepted. The repertoire included songs by all major legendary composers/singers of the rembetiko including Panagiotis Tountas, Marcos Vamvakaris, Vasilis Tsitsanis, Manolis Hiotis, rare songs which originated and were first recorded in the United States as well as “Archonto-rembetika” songs of Michalis Souyioul. Babis Tsertos who connected with the audience from the very start, kept everyone fully engaged throughout the performance. In between he also explained the origins of the songs presented. The crowd comprised by Greek Americans and members of the general audience, was singing and clapping along and there was also a lot of sit-dancing.
The Babis Tsertos band was comprised by the leading musicians, Kyriakos Gkouventas, violin/baglama, Dimitris Reppas, bouzouki/guitar/vocals, Ifighenia Ioannou, k a n o n a k i / v o c a l s a n d Ko s t a s Ts e k o u r a s , outi/guitar/vocals, all of whom displayed their talent as a group and individually. Ifighenia Ioannou, a young and upcoming musician/singer was very well received with her impressive performance on the 72
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This first collaboration with AKTINA and CYPRECO also marked Babis Tsertos’ debut performance in New York. In recognition of the many contributions of Babis Tsertos to Greek music and for participating in support of Greek Music Journey 2016, the artist was honored with “AKTINA’s Distinguished Artist Award”. This prestigious award is exclusively presented to GMJ participating artists with many years of contributions to Greek music and Mr. Tsertos is the third recipient. Previous recipients were, Lavrentis Machairitsas, Yiannis Kotsiras and Eleni Tsaligopoulou. Council Member Costa Constantinides also honored Mr. Tsertos with a Citation on behalf of the City of New York in recognition of her contributions to Greek music and for her participation to GMJ 2016 for the benefit of Greek Americans and of all New Yorkers. During his brief remarks, Council Member Constantinides congratulated Mrs. Maroulleti and the sponsoring non-profits of the concert, AKTINA and CYPRECO for this “successful concert production” and for their “ongoing commitment of bringing to New York unique artists and for presenting exceptional concerts which revive the rich musical inheritance of Greece”. Mr. Constantinides also c o n g r a t u l a t e d M r. Tsertos and his band for the “memorable concert dedicated to the rembetika”. In accepting the awards Mr. Tsertos, thanked Council Member Constantinides and AKTINA for the “exceptional honor” they bestowed upon him and urged all to “continue to support
From left, Council Member Costa Constantinides, Elena Maroulleti, President AKTINA & CYPRECO and Babis Tsertos
In her brief remarks Ms. Maroulleti thanked the participating artists, the audience for honoring with their presence, everyone who participated and contributed to this production, including all “dedicated volunteers of AKTINA and CYPRECO”, all companies and organizations who sponsored the concert and the Kaye Playhouse technical staff for the superb sound. As it was announced, the next two concerts from the series Greek Music Journey will be presented on April 21, 2017 with a new artist from Greece while on November 3, 2017 Lavrentis Machairitsas accompanied by his band and renowned artist Yiannis Zouganelis will be returning to New York for yet another one of a kind performance.
Aghia Sophia: Times, Templates & Foundations from Byzantium to Present Day by Chris Salboudis
Hellenic American Leadership Council (HALC) and the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, which monitor cultural and religious freedom issues in Turkey.”
The panelists: Mike Risko Savvas (Musician & Professor), Alexander Billinis (Author, The Eagle has Two Faces), Dean Sirigos ( Journalist), John Fotiadis (EMBCA VP, Architect), Vassilios Chrissochos (Choreographer, Composer, Director Porphyra), Lou Katsos (EMBCA President) and UNESCO Greece Representative Despina Afentouli
EMBCA’s Lou Katsos and John Fotiadis organized an amazing panel discussion entitled “Aghia Sophia: It’s History, Architecture and Cultural Contributions” at the 3 West Club in New York City on December 13th. The discussions on the architectural and cultural legacy of this historic edifice and the live musical performances by featured guest Mike Risko Savvas of Porphyra were very well received by those assembled. Lou Katsos opened the evening with an explanation of the mission and purpose of EMBCA’s Byzantium lecture series. EMBCA (the East Mediterranean Business Culture Alliance) is a New York-based organization of approximately 1,000 members established and directed by professionals and scholars from various fields to promote and support the East Mediterranean Community. EMBCA’s goals are to organize, promote and fund professional, educational and cultural programs and activities at the local and national levels. They are also open to collaborating with other organizations to help promote the growth and flourishing of our collective community. “This is just the first of several Byzantine-oriented events that EMBCA will have. We plan to host several other business and cultural events including activities in the food industry, shipping, and an event that will focus on the fall of Constantinople on May 29th.” When asked why the team at EMBCA identified Aghia Sophia as a keystone topic for this series of educational discussions, Lou explained, “Because the current history, especially with what’s going on now with the Turks… we’re faced with constant destabilization of the Hellenic nation – on our shores, in our space, we’ve faced very invasive elements thousands of times. This talk is meant to help counter the decision to turn Aghia Sophia – our space – back into a mosque, which goes against the recent past.” “The dome of Aghia Sophia represents two things: It’s a Cosmos represented in concrete, like the Parthenon, and it’s a canopy, providing coverage of the sacred altar.” says John Fotiadis, VP of EMBCA. In terms of the unique architecture and the “Why?!?” behind the numerous conversions that Aghia Sophia has suffered over the centuries, John Fotiadis presented a thorough overview of the architectural marvel we are currently fighting to preserve, and transported the audience through a historical outline of the transformations from a basilica to a mosque to a museum. His presentation also highlighted the many other more modern structures around the world that were heavily influenced by the sound architecture and aesthetic of the original basilica. 74
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The story of Byzantium – of the rich Hellenic culture cultivated in Medieval times through the brick and stone of architectural marvels like Aghia Sophia – is considered to be part of a longer philosophical and scientific legacy that can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. One of the featured panelists, Dean Sirigos, "The Voice" on many of the thoughtprovoking articles on Greek culture in several prominent publications both in the US and abroad, says he was honored to be a part of the event. When asked why Aghia Sophia is such a centripetal icon in Greek history and culture going back to the Byzantine Era, he says, “I called my contribution ‘Aghia Sophia: Neither an EMBCA President Lou Katsos Accident nor a Miracle’ to point out that this magnificent building was the product of a civilization that is underappreciated. The Late Antique period, for all its artistic achievements in giving birth to Byzantine art, etc. is not given credit for its intellectual and technological dynamism, and Aghia Sophia is proof of that. It is such an amazing building that in later centuries it was believed that the design was miraculously revealed to the builders by God.” In his talk, Dean pointed out that the roots of several of the early modern discoveries and inventions could be traced back to the work of Aristotle through references from such scholars as John Philoponos, Isaac Newton, and even Galileo. The designers of this magnificent edifice were part of a very vibrant urban culture on the verge of multiple industrial and scientific breakthroughs before the crippling plague of the 6th century and the invasions of the 7th century wreaked havoc on the economic foundations of the Eastern Roman Empire. His talk was full of anecdotes that informed and encouraged attendees to carry the torch for our history, our roots, and – quite literally in the case of Aghia Sophia – our foundations. “Regarding the Turkish government's rumblings about turning Aghia Sophia from a museum into a mosque, I don’t believe they will do that – they make a lot of money from admissions – but the Greek-American community must be vigilant. We should support and be in touch with organizations like the American Hellenic Institute (AHI), the Coordinated Effort of Hellenes, AHEPA, the
Alexander Billinis, author of the intriguing book The Eagle Has Two Faces: Journeys Through Byzantine Europe, discusses the visual and conceptual presence of a Byzantium in popular culture from the Silver Screen era to present day. His talk revealed that there is minimal representation – and what is available is crafted and distributed mainly through the vast network of the Turkish cinema industry. There is a visible absence of our community’s presence in films and in print; Alexander points to the fact that todays’ youth learn of ancient Greece and Rome in the majority of their classroom lectures and assigned readings, but little to nothing of the literature and culture of the Byzantine Era. The result is the possible warping of historical facts over time, the vilification of once heroes and the fading of values that were once held so close to heart. The solution he suggests is to bring the details of the Byzantine Era – both beauties and flaws – to the forefront of popular culture by building a presence in Hollywood and creating informative opportunities that will appeal to the masses as films like 300 have. The weight of this tasks will most likely fall on the shoulders of the vast Diaspora. “My own Diaspora origins derive from political and from economic factors….” Alexander mentions in his book, which then spans the vast regions of Eastern Europe including Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Italy and Greece (more specifically Athens and Pontos). This call to action was beautifully tied in to the years of creative effort put forth by Vassilios Chrissochos, Director of Porphyra and Composer of the first-ever Grecian Rock Opera, which was wildly successful in both Carnegie Hall (2015) and Lincoln Center (2016) as well as an off-broadway theatre (2016). In a prepanel interview, Vassilios, who has made an in-depth study of Hellenic and Byzantine history in addition to his progressive efforts in the music industry, says, “We are descendants of the Ancients, the Byzantine (Medieval) Greeks and the modern Greeks. It’s so important to learn and cherish your history and Orthodox Christian roots.” In line with this philosophy, Vassilios and the members of Porphyra, including Mike Risko Savvas, fuse the genres of classical Greek music and dance with modern rock to present the stories of Byzantium in a manner that will appeal to the masses and help educate today’s youth as well as the next generation. “The Porphyra project – the big project – integrates history, humor and the element of sexiness that make it attractive to our viewers and fans.” The EMBSCO Directors, panelists and performers were honored by UNESCO Greece with Certificates of Merit for their effort to bring central issues regarding Greek culture and society to the forefront of 21st-Century discussions. The call to action towards the preservation of our cultural legacy through the generation of music, literature, film and related educational projects and forums is clear. The heavy yolk of the responsibility falls to us, the members of the Diaspora, but through the continued efforts of institutions like EMBCA and its affiliates problems and major questions will be addressed as they were this evening, with a combination of knowledge, structure and creativity.
The panelists: Leonidas Marcantonatos (General Director, Greek Foreign Affairs Council & son of the Ambassador of Greece to Canada), Nicholas Anton (UN Program Coordinator for the Greek Orthodox Archdioceses), Professor Elizabeth Prodromou (Assoc. Professor at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University), and Drake Bekrakis (President, Marwick Group).
THE NATIONAL HELLENIC STUDENT ASSOCIATION'S BIANNUAL CONVENTION The National Hellenic Student Association (NHSA) of North America, Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, hosted their biannual convention in Boston this past November. NHSA succeeded in uniting over 150 students and young professionals from across the U.S., Canada, and Greece, with a shared interest to preserve the beloved Hellenic identity and culture which has survived through generations of tradition. Attendees traveled from near and far to learn, network, and bond. The weekend kicked off at the Hilton Back Bay where attendees arrived throughout the day to check-in. Participants had the opportunity to meet and network with each other during the welcome event at Boston University. Day 1 was concluded by an entertaining Greek Night co-hosted with Party Alliws at Serafina restaurant/bar featuring DJ Petros Dev from Athens. The conference was hosted at the Boston University Questrom School of Business Metcalf Trustee Center. NHSA President, Ms. Konstantina Panagiotopoulos, began the day introducing the collective conference theme of hope in her speech, “Hope” is the thing with feathers -. Opening remarks were also given by prominent members of the Hellenic community: Rev. Father Athanasios Nenes who represented Metropolitan Methodios of Boston; Hon. Ifigenia Kanara, Consul General of Greece in Boston; Mr. Miltiades Athanasopoulos, President, Federation of Hellenic American Societies of New England; Ms. Elpida Velmahos, President, Boston University Hellenic Association; and Ms. Kelly Polychroniou, Head of the Modern Greek Language Program at Boston University.
The conference transitioned to a discussion about the trials and tribulations of leadership with Mr. George Logothetis, Chairman and CEO of Libra Group, led by Mr. Konstantine Ouranitsas, NHSA Chairman. Speaking from personal experience, Mr. Logothetis had the room enthralled with his empowering words on leadership and humanitarianism. Mr. Logothetis inspired students to turn their hopes and goals into action and captivated the audience with his authority and insight. The final speaker of the day, Dr. George Velmahos, MD, PhD, Chief of Trauma, Massachusetts General Hospital, gave an in-depth presentation of his account of the Boston Marathon Bombing aftermath, focusing on the importance of preparation, collaboration, and leadership. From left, Drake Behrakis, President, Marwick Group, Konstantine Ouranitsas, Chairman, National Hellenic Student Association of North America, and Christos Marafatsos, President, Blue Sky Capital and Donald Trump's Greek American liaison.
“Greece’s Security Environment: Old and New Opportunities and Threats.” NHSA Vice President, Alexander Thomopulos, moderated the panel, composed of Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou, Associate Professor, Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University; Mr. Drake Behrakis, President, Marwick Group; Mr. Nicholas Anton, UN Program Coordinator, Greek Orthodox Archdiocese; and Mr. Leonidas Marcantonatos, General Director, Greek Foreign Affairs Council. Panelists gave their expertise on the Migration Crisis, Human Rights Conference emcee, Ms. Andriana Mitrakos, Violations, Greece and Europe’s Security, and introduced the first panel discussion titled, Religious Freedom. 82
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During lunch, donated by Saloniki Greek restaurant, students participated in casual networking sessions and engaged with representatives from the Libra Group, Boston University Greek Studies, and the American College of Thessaloniki, who provided information on extracurricular initiatives in which students can engage. The conference concluded with two interactive workshops. The first workshop, focusing on community activism, was led by Mr. Christos Marafatsos, President of Blue Sky Capital, and Ms. Vasiliki Mitrakos, Director of Operations, NHSA. The second workshop, led by Ms. Tamika Tompoulidis, Lecturer, Univ. of Kentucky, and Mr. Konstantine Ouranitsas, Chairman, NHSA, provided interactive activities with attendees regarding networking and career building. The conference concluded with closing remarks by NHSA Vice President, Alexander Thomopulos.
Attendees had the rest of the evening to explore Boston’s historic sites. Saturday concluded with a Greek Night at 49 Social, co-hosted with Party Alliws, featuring an encore performance by DJ Petros Dev. On Sunday, NHSA took attendees to the Museum of Science where participants explored the exhibits and shared lunch, concluding the weekend and exchanging contact information to keep in touch. “The convention was an astounding success and drew the largest number of student and young professional participants to date. Attendees had very positive feedback, emphasizing how proud to be Greek, the weekend left them. We look forward to continuing to create these professional, educational, and social platforms; and expanding our reach to provide greater opportunities for the Hellenic community,” Konstantina Panagiotopoulos, NHSA President. Dr. George Velmhos also reflected on his experience at the Convention: “It is always refreshing to see young people who are concerned about their fellow human beings and do not hesitate to commit time and energy in making things better. The conference, which was impeccably organized, spread hope to those who need it and pride to those who attended it.” After a successful weekend, the NHSA Executive Board would like to thank participants for joining in a socially energized, educationally enriching, and network expanding convention. NHSA would also like to thank our sponsors including the Libra Group, KPS Capital Partners, Alpha Omega Council, and Plastic Molding Manufacturing for supporting our organization and mission to unite the Greek and Cypriot diaspora. Furthermore, the Executive Board’s gratitude goes to supporters including Archbishop Demetrios of America and Metropolitan Methodios of Boston as well as the Greek and Cypriot Embassies and Consulates of the US and Canada. With the generous support of the Hellenic community, NHSA is able to provide opportunities to students and young professionals to grow into the future leaders of our community. For additional information on the Boston Convention, membership, sponsorship, etc. their website is nhsaofamerica.org
Ms. Wafa Goussous, director at the Middle East Council of Churches Orthodox Initiative with the patriarch during his visit
Patriarch Theophilos III visiting the camps and offering gifts
The Orthodox Initiative at the Refugee Camps in Jordan by Wafa Goussous* A request from Patriarch Theophilos III, Patriarch of the Holy city Jerusalem all Palestine and Jordan was sent to us from Jerusalem expressing his wish to visit the Syrian refugees at the borders, Albadia Al shamalia (Northern Badia) where hundreds of Syrian refugees are living in scattered camps. His Beatitude follows our work closely and wanted to check on the refugee’s conditions in this cold winter and to congratulate them on the occasion of Al Mawled Al nabawee al-shareef (the birthday of the Islamic prophet Muhammad which is celebrated just like we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ) and Christmas.
Upon his arrival the children of the camp sung their best songs to the patriarch and the delegation as a way of greeting and appreciating his visit. The men stood in line to shake hands with the guests as a sign of respect and appreciation. One man was standing offering Arabic coffee and the women were present too. Tents were empty, all people were out in reception of the guests. This is an Arab Syrian tradition of telling the guest how much they value the visit .Flash back, when the Magi saw the Star, followed it and offered their gifts to new born Christ. 84
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His Beatitude asked us to be part of the distribution, this time we brought to children winter boots, hats and scarves, knowing that the weather conditions in this part of the kingdom are very cold and windy and these items must be delivered as soon as possible. In addition, we have distributed food parcels that contained 17 food items designed by the refugees themselves, as they have requested food that can give them more energy like candy, chocolate and cookies. Lollipops were offered to every child.
disability. She was born without hair on her head but we must work to compensate by helping her to live a normal life.
Patriarch Theophilos during an interview at a near by cafe called upon the peoples of the world to step in and be the modern Magi. The international community must contribute more to help Jordan in carrying the burden. “A stranger and you received me, hungry and you gave me food, naked and you clothed me.” The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has Basma a young girl, who was born with no hair on been applying Mathew 25 since 1948. her head, came dressed with a new hat and a red * Wafa Goussous is Director at the Middle East Council of Churches Orthodox Initiative, a nongovernmental organization helping the refugees of the Syrian crisis.
dress for the occasion, but to our surprise this time she looked so tiny, she had lost so much weight and was not speaking to us. Looking around at most of the children we all noticed that they did not look healthy. I carried Basma like she was a feather in my arms. We are determined to make a difference in this camp. Basma is just like any other girl in the world and she has the right to eat well and receive all that she needs to grow up without any disease or
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: e e r c e D l a y o R By l Have a Beauatrif! u New Ye I'm humbled (as you can see from the picture) by the outpouring of your support this time around! What you are holding is the biggest issue EVER in NEO's 11 and a half years of history! I want to thank you on behalf of our team that gets better and bigger every year, and to assure you that your money won't end up to a Mercedes Benz dealer (I like Bentleys) but will be spent wisely as always in order to make your favorite publication as sharp a Mercedes, AMG preferably! This past year with the addition of new writers we have enriched NEO's content and we have inaugurated a series of articles that showcase successful entrepreneurial undertakings in the crisis stricken Greece. And more is yet to come, sooner rather than later. Thanks to your generosity, my space is eaten up with ads so, in conclusion I am grateful for your help and I wish to each and every one of you a Happy, Prosperous and full of creative challenges New Year! dondemetrio@neomagazine.com
by Demetrios Rhompotis
“Hey Greek, you got that old Chevy outside?” by Dino Pavlou It was one night back in the mid-70s, around Christmas time, and as always Jimmy Weston’s supper club in New York City was crowded. Customers were enjoying the music of Tommy Furtado’s band and Tommy himself singing Christmas carols. We had the place decorated for the holidays and the snowy weather outside added to the festive spirit of the season.
I asked our captain George Pappas to take charge while I was gone and the three of us walked outside, where Sinatra’s limo was waiting. He told his driver to wait there and we got into my Chevy. It was bittercold, snowing heavily, and everything was covered with snow—although driving is not a problem on the streets of New York City: the snow melts fast from the steam coming out the subway grates. “Where we going?” I asked.
“You see Frank,” he said, “you’re not as famous as you think you are. No one even recognized you here.” “If you were as hungry and cold as they are, you wouldn’t recognize me, either,” Frank said. We stayed and ate with these poor guys putting away the pizza faster than Carmela could make it and it was a magical night: only Sinatra couldn’t hold back the tears.
“Uptown,” Jilly said. So finally Jilly stood up. “It’s time to go now,” he We drove uptown on Park Avenue until said. we reached Harlem, and made a beeline for First Avenue between 117th and 118th Streets, to Patsy’s Pizzeria. It was then I realized that it wasn’t a good idea to arrive there in a limo in the wee hours. I parked in front of the place and went in with Sinatra and Jilly. We were greeted by Carmela, the owner, and a one-hundred percent amazing Italian woman. When she saw Frank, she rushed to him with open arms.
Frank Sinatra
Before midnight, Frank Sinatra walked in with his best friend and trusted companion, Jilly Rizzo. This wasn’t a surprise: it was expected, because when Sinatra was in town he would always stop by for a night cap before calling it a night. After warm greetings and a hug, I escorted Sinatra and Jilly to Sinatra’s favorite table, number seventeen. It was a round corner table near my desk, where I could keep an eye on things, and we always kept it reserved for Sinatra while he was in town. Later. after a few drinks, Sinatra decided to have pizza at his favorite joint. “Hey Greek, you got that old Chevy outside?” he asked me. “Yes, it’s outside,” I said. He stood up, peeled off a couple hundred dollar bills from his wad, and gave it to the waiter. “Greek, you just got yourself drafted,” he said. “Let’s go.” 98
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Dino Pavlou with his grandson
“Frankie, sweetheart, it’s good to see We got up, and Frank pulled out his wad of hundreds you!” and gave it to Carmela: all of it, without counting it. “What the hell, it’s Christmas,” he said. “Keep the She threw her arms around him and pizza coming through Christmas, darling,” he told gave him a big hug--but when she Carmella. “I’ll send you more money, and keep pulled away Sinatra’s overcoat was everything under wraps.” He started towards the now white with flour from her apron. door, with me and Jilly following, when the first two Embarrassed, Carmela started talking guys he had called in now walked over to him. fast in Italian-as though cursing herself-while trying to brush off “Thank you Mr. Sinatra,” they said, “and have a Sinatra’s coat. Merry Christmas.” Don’t worry about that darling,” Sinatra said. “Just “Come back here tomorrow,” he said, “and there’ll make us your delicious pizza.” be more pizza. Stay off the junk and have yourselves a Merry Christmas.” Carmela rushed away--and soon came back with a hot pie. As we started to eat, Sinatra looked out of As we got into the car, the men came out and started the window and saw two homeless guys staring at shouting. “Thank you, Mr. Sinatra! Merry Christmas! us. They looked cold and very hungry. He waved Merry Christmas!” them in and he ordered pizza for them. Soon more guys showed--and soon the place was packed with Afterwards, it was quiet as we drove back to Jimmy Sinatra’s impromptu and ravenous guests—and he Weston’s. Jilly and tried to make conversation, but ordered pizza for all of them. Sinatra was silent. Only one time he spoke: “Have you guys ever been hungry and cold?” Meanwhile, Jilly and I finished our slices, but Sinatra had only taken one bite of his: his eyes were tearing “I have,” I said. up from watching these poor hungry guys gobbling down the hot, steaming slices as fast as they could. Many Christmases have come and gone since then. That got Jilly’s attention. He tried to make a joke to But that Christmas night was special and I was very divert Sinatra’s attention. fortunate to be a part of it.