KPHTH official publication of the pancretan association of america JUNE 2011 www.PANCRETAN.org Women of PAA rem emb er St. ete JunP e 24- Beach July 1 PAA’s Cretan Honey Bees 09.09.2047 pancretan association of america KPHTH www.pancretan.org official publication of the pancretan association of america NIKOS KATSANEVAKIS Editor in Chief - Business Manager Tel: 718-302-1100 / Fax: 718-233-2617 Email:[email protected] 30-48 82nd Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11370 GEORGE BITSIS Graphic Design Production - Photography pancretan association of america Headquarters: 32-33 31St Street, Astoria, NY 11106 OFFICERs OF PAA NATIONAL PRESIDENT: THEODORE MANOUSAKIS Tel. (703) 549-3700 • [email protected] FIRST VICE PRESIDENT: JOHN G. MANOS Tel. (630) 686-0600 • [email protected] SECOND VICE PRESIDENT: NICKOS KASTRINAKIS Tel. (917) 295-6596 • [email protected] THIRD VICE PRESIDENT: LEFTERIS DRAMITINOS Tel. (714) 606-5051 •[email protected] GENERAL SECRETARY: ERASMIA NOVOTNY 8530 Sharon Drive, White Lake, MI 48386 Tel. (248) 698-8580 • Fax: 248-698-8573 • [email protected] TREASURER: Dr. james saklas Tel. (202) 366-9254 • [email protected] WOMEN’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: MARIA STRATOUDAKIS Tel. (718) 357-6616 • [email protected] GENERAL SUPERVISOR: Tom lantzourakis Tel: (909) 614-1416 • [email protected] LEGAL ADVISOR: JAMES MAROPOULAKIS DENNEY, Esq. Tel. (330) 545-4250 • [email protected] AUDITOR GENERAL: MARIA MAKROPOULOS Tel. (732) 329-6254 • [email protected] PYA PRESIDENT: ELENI SOPASIS Tel. (631) 885-2132• [email protected] YOUTH SUPERVISOR EAST COAST: EMMANUEL SIFAKIS Tel. (401) 499-6770 • [email protected] YOUTH SUPERVISOR WEST COAST: GEORGE ZOUMBERAKIS Tel. (562) 659-2303 • [email protected] DISTRICT GOVERNORS District 1: DEMITRIS HATZIS Tel. (413) 734-8353 •[email protected] District 2: ZAHAROULA MARMATAKIS Tel. (732) 777-0104 • [email protected] District 3: STELIOS VITAKIS Tel. (216) 470-3323 • [email protected] District 4: NICK VERIKAKIS Tel. (419) 474-4287 • [email protected] District 5: GEORGE TSOUTSOUNAKIS Tel. (801) 244-8214• [email protected] District 6: STAMATIS ZOUMBERAKIS Tel. (562) 923-5750 • [email protected] District 7: JOHN DATSERIS Tel. (704) 795-0024 • [email protected] PAA FOUNDATION, INC.: stavros antonakakis Tel. (609) 929.6000 • [email protected] Culture & Education: takis psarakis Tel. (908) 256-6813 • [email protected] INVESTMENTS BOARD: Dr. MANUEL G. RUSSON Tel. (914) 738-4887 • [email protected] SCHOLARSHIP FUND: REMA MANOUSAKIS Tel. (703) 549-3700 • [email protected] INFORMATION/TECHNOLOGY: stacy marakis Tel. (312) 397-8602 • [email protected] PANCRETAN ENDOWMENT FUND: Dr. George papadantonakis Tel. (312) 932-0086 • [email protected] PHILANTHROPIC FUND: stavros antonakakis Tel. (609) 929.6000 • [email protected] STRATEGIC PLANNING: HELEN RANNEY Tel. (248) 626-5516 • [email protected] CRETAN ALUMNI NETWORK (CAN): stacy marakis Tel. (312) 397-8602 • [email protected] KPHTH (CRETE) | USPS 298-020 Published monthy except the combined issues of July/August and December/January for $20 per year by the: Pancretan Association of America (PAA) 30-48 82nd Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11370 Periodical Postage Paid at Flushing, NY and additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send Address Change to: KPHTH c/o PAA 8530 Sharon Dr. White Lake, MI 48386-3472 YEAR 82nd - NO 816 JUNE 2011 Email or mail your letters, photos, advertisement and news at : [email protected] KPHTH MAGAZINE PMB#387, 94-98 Nassau Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222 KPHTH official publication of the pancretan association of america JUNE 2011 www.PANCRETAN.org rem ember St. e JunPet e 24-JBeach uly 1 Women of PAA PAA’s Cretan Honey Bees contents περιεχόμενα COVER: Women of PAA: PAA’s Cretan Honey Bees President’s Message 04 Message From PAA President Theodore Manousakis Letters Γράμματα Letters from our members 07 From the District Νέα Περιφέρειας District III Leadership Conference Cover Story Εξώφυλλο PAA’s Cretan Honey Bees.... the Eight Inspirational Jewels of the PAA 08 10 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ 14 Τhoughts Σκέψεις 18 KPI KPI 19 Photos Φωτογραφίες 23 MΙΝΩΙΚΟ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΟ ΧΩΡΙΟ, ΑΤΣΙΠΟΠΟΥΛΟ Συμβάλετε στη Γέφυρα Αμερική-Κρήτη Through the eyes of a granddaughter Message From PYA President Eleni Sopasis & news from the youth Event photos Obituary Εις Μνήμη In Memory of Pearl Delis 25 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ 26 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ 28 ΠροφίλProfile 30 ChapterProfileΠροφίλΣυλλόγου 32 DonationsΔωρεές Andalucia-Crete report The Nikos Kazantzakis Museum Cretan American Association District VII Honoring Maria Kastrenakes Cretans of Greater Philadelphia “KNOSSOS” 34 CalendarΗμερολόγιο 34 Chapter NewsΝέα Συλλόγων 35 Events of PAA Chapters Νews From Our Local chapters Πάντα μου θα σε καρτερώ ζώντας γη πεθαμένη γιατί η γι’ αγάπη η μπιστικιά στα κόκκαλα ‘πομένει. Dead or alive, always for you I’ll wait, for love eternal in our bones remains, my mate. From “The Voice of the People” by Dr. Stylianos V. Spyridakis JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 3 President’sMessage The Women of PAA... The True Backbone of Our Cretan Community Dear fellow Cretans: In this issue of KPHTH, we are proud to recognize the role of the Cretan women in the PAA. It is something that has long been overdue. We have been remiss in recognizing the most important resource within our PAA family and community. There are eight women on the PAA board, and many other hard working individuals within the PAA. Since the beginning of our Association in America, Cretan women have played a pivotal role in our lives, not only as the matriarchs of the Cretan family but, by extension, as pillars of our community throughout. It would be difficult for me to describe the debt that we owe to the women that surround us everyday throughout our lives without sharing my own personal experience in the midst of all the women in my life. I lost my father soon after the Second World War when I was just five years old. My mother and my three sisters assumed the responsibility of raising me. Two of my sisters were only several years older than me. The third was a toddler of two. I had no brothers nor any male role models, only three sisters and my mother. My life would not have been the same without the incredible influence of the women in my family. Their attention to me as their only son and brother, their sensitivity to my needs, and their deep compassion, were all aspects that filled my life, and I shall forever be grateful to them. Even as young children when we quarreled and my sisters complained that my mother showed preference to her only son over the rest of her children, I always knew that they protected me and I always felt their deep love and compassion. Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to be surrounded by women. During the last two years as president, I had the privilege and honor of working with eight women on the PAA board. In retrospect, I can’t imagine that we could have accomplished so many objectives without their involvement and hard work. Their total availability, their ever presence, their focus and complete concentration, their dedication and conviction, and their ability to cut through mediocrity and “get to the real issue”, has been a true inspiration for me and the rest of the board. Please indulge me to mention each of them here although I know these few words do not properly reflect their contribution to our association; to do so properly would take volumes. Erasmia Novotny, PAA General Secretary, has been my proverbial “right hand” since day one. From sun-up to well beyond sun-set, Erasmia is busy on the phone, on her computer, on her cell. Although she has her family, her business, her personal obligations, Erasmia is always there for the PAA, available for anything that needs to be done and any problem that needs a solution. Without Erasmia, I would not have been able to maintain the bond that keeps the PAA together. Maria Stratoudakis, PAA Women’s Executive Director, has brought the PAA women’s chapters to new levels of communication. She has been the most visible of any PAA Women’s Executive Directors. Although she has a full time job, she has placed her PAA position as top priority, traveling the entire U.S. visiting her chapters, exploring new ideas, and promoting new initiatives for the women of today. Maria (Antonakakis) Makropoulos, PAA Auditor General, is as elegant as she is professional in her work and responsibilities of her position. When Maria takes on an assignment, she does the most thorough, accurate and complete job of anyone I know. Through Maria’s efforts, the PAA and the individual chapters are finally in compliance with the IRS tax regulations. Maria has made a real difference to the mission of our association. Eleni Sopasis, PYA President, is an example of enthusiasm and true leadership. Eleni and the youth have conducted the most successful PYA Conferences. Their efforts in fundraising and toy gathering for children’s philanthropic causes have been examples for all of us to follow. Through Eleni’s effort, our youth has been at the forefront with PYA Constitution / Bylaws changes. Under her leadership and sense of “community”, many initiatives to unite the Cretan youth have been implemented. Zaharoula Marmatakis, 2nd District Governor, is a tireless worker, admired for her tenacity and ability to get people going. She has organized chapter meetings of her District, participated and taken charge of projects such as the Christmas issue of 4 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 ΜήνυμαΠροέδρου Οι Γυναίκες της ΠΕΑ... Η Πραγματική Ραχοκοκαλιά της Κρητικής Κοινότητας Αγαπητοί φίλοι: Σε αυτό το τεύχος του KPHTH, υπερήφανα αναγνωρίζουμε το ρόλο των Κρήσσων γυναικών της ΠΕΑ. Είναι κάτι που έπρεπε να είχε γίνει από καιρό. Αμελήσαμε την αναγνώριση ενός από τους σημαντικότερους πόρους στην οικογένεια της Π.Ε.Α. και της Κρητικής κοινότητάς. Υπάρχουν οκτώ γυναίκες στο Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο της ΠΕΑ, και πολλά άλλα άτομα που εργάζονται σκληρά στο πλαίσιο της ΠΕΑ. Από την αρχή της δημιουργίας του οργανισμού μας στην Αμερική, οι Κρήσσες έχουν διαδραματίσει ηγετικό ρόλο στη ζωή μας, όχι μόνο ως πυλώνες της Κρητικής οικογένειας αλλά, κατ ‘επέκταση, ως πυλώνες ολόκληρης της κοινότητας μας. Θα ήταν δύσκολο για μένα να περιγράψω το χρέος που οφείλουμε στις γυναίκες που μας περιβάλλουν καθημερινά σε ολόκληρη τη ζωή μας χωρίς να συμπεριλάβω τις γυναίκες που είναι στο κέντρο της δικής μου ζωής. Έχασα τον πατέρα μου αμέσως μετά τον Δεύτερο Παγκόσμιο Πόλεμο, όταν ήμουν μόλις πέντε ετών. Η μητέρα μου και οι τρεις αδελφές μου, ανέλαβαν την ευθύνη να με μεγαλώσουν. Δύο από τις αδελφές μου ήταν μόνο μερικά χρόνια μεγαλύτερες μου. Η τρίτη ήταν δύο χρονών μωρό. Δεν είχα αδερφό, ούτε κάποιο αντρικό πρότυπο προς μίμηση, μόνο τρεις αδελφές και η μητέρα μου. Η ζωή μου δεν θα ήταν το ίδιο χωρίς την απίστευτη επιρροή των γυναικών στην οικογένειά μου. Η προσοχή τους σε μένα, καθώς ήμουν ο μόνος γιος και αδελφός τους, η ευαισθησία τους στις ανάγκες μου, και η βαθιά συμπόνια τους, ήταν όλα στοιχεία που γέμισαν τη ζωή μου, και θα είμαι για πάντα ευγνώμων σε αυτές. Ακόμα και όταν ήμασταν μικρά παιδιά και μάλωνα με τις αδελφές μου και αυτές παραπονιόταν στην μητέρα μου ότι δείχνει περισσότερη προτίμηση στο μοναχογιό της από τα υπόλοιπα παιδιά της, εγώ πάντα ήξερα ότι με προστάτευαν και ένιωθα πάντα τη βαθιά αγάπη και τη συμπόνια τους. Σε όλη μου τη ζωή, έχω την τύχη να περιβάλλομαι από γυναίκες. Κατά τη διάρκεια των τελευταίων δύο ετών ως πρόεδρος, είχα το προνόμιο και την τιμή να συνεργαστώ με οκτώ γυναίκες στο Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο της ΠΕA. Εκ των υστέρων, δεν μπορώ να φανταστώ ότι θα μπορούσαμε να είχαμε καταφέρει να υλοποιήσουμε τόσους πολλούς στόχους χωρίς τη συμμετοχή τους και τη σκληρή δουλειά τους. Η ανά πάσα στιγμή διαθεσιμότητα τους, η παρουσία τους, η εστίασή και πλήρη συγκέντρωση τους, η αφοσίωση και η πεποίθησή τους και η ικανότητά τους να παρακάμπτουν τις λεπτομέρειες και να εστιάζονται στην “ουσία” του πραγματικού ζητήματος, είναι για μένα και για το υπόλοιπο Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου μια πραγματική έμπνευση. Παρακαλώ επιτρέψτε μου να αναφέρω κάθε μία τους ξεχωριστά, μολονότι γνωρίζω αυτά τα λίγα λόγια δεν αντικατοπτρίζουν σωστά τη συμβολή τους στην οργάνωση μας. Για να γίνει σωστά θα έπαιρνε τόμους. Ερασμία Νοβότνυ, Γενική Γραμματέας της ΠΕΑ. Έχει παρομοιαστεί με το «δεξί χέρι» μου από την πρώτη μέρα. Από την ανατολή του ήλιου μέχρι αργά το βράδυ η Ερασμία είναι απασχολημένη στο τηλέφωνο, στον υπολογιστή της, στο κινητό της και εργάζεται για την ΠΕΑ. Αν και έχει την οικογένειά της, τις επιχειρήσεις της, τις προσωπικές υποχρεώσεις της, η Ερασμία είναι πάντα εκεί για την ΠΕΑ, διαθέσιμη για ό, τι χρειάζεται να γίνει, και για κάθε πρόβλημα που χρειάζεται λύση. Χωρίς την Ερασμία, δεν θα ήταν σε ήμουν σε θέση να διατηρήσω την ενότητα και τον δεσμό που κρατά την ΠΕΑ μαζί. Μαρία Στρατουδάκης, Εκτελεστική Διευθύντρια Γυναικών της ΠΕΑ. Η Μαρία έφερε τα γυναικεία τμήματα των συλλόγων της ΠΕΑ σε νέα επίπεδα επικοινωνίας. Είναι μία από τις πιο δραστήριες Εκτελεστικές Διευθύντριες Γυναικών της ΠΕΑ. Αν και έχει μια πλήρης απασχόλησης εργασία, έχει τοποθετήσει τη ΠΕΑ ως κορυφαία προτεραιότητα της, ταξιδεύοντας σε όλη την Αμερική και επισκέπτοντας συλλόγους, εξερευνώντας νέες ιδέες, καθώς και την προώθηση νέων πρωτοβουλιών για τις γυναίκες του σήμερα. Μαρία (Αντωνακάκη) Μακρόπουλος, Γενική Ελεγκτής της ΠΕΑ. Είναι τόσο κομψή όσο και επαγγελματίας στην δουλειά της και υπεύθυνη στης θέση της. Όταν μία δουλειά ανατίθεται στην Μαρία την κάνει όσο πιο εμπεριστατωμένα, ακριβή και πλήρη γίνεται. Μέσω των προσπαθειών της Μαρίας, η ΠΕΑ και οι επιμέρους σύλλογοι είναι σε πλήρη συμμόρφωση με τους φορολογικούς κανονισμούς της Αμερικανικής νομοθεσίας (IRS). Η Μαρία έχει κάνει μια πραγματική διαφορά στην αποστολή του οργανισμού μας. Ελένη Σωπασή, Πρόεδρος Νεολαία Παγκρητικής Ένωσης Αμερικής. Είναι η προσωποποίηση του ενθουσιασμού και της πραγματικής ηγεσίας. Η Ελένη και η νεολαία έχουν πραγματοποιήσει τα πιο επιτυχημένα Συνέδρια της ΠΝΑ. Οι προσπάθειές της στη συγκέντρωση χρημάτων και στη συγκέντρωση παιχνιδιών για φιλανθρωπικούς σκοπούς είναι παράδειγμα για όλους μας να ακολουθήσουν. Μέσα από την προσπάθεια της Ελένης, η νεολαία μας είναι στην πρώτη γραμμή του οργανισμού μας με δημιουργία Συντάγματος της ΠΝΑ και αλλαγές στο Καταστατικό. Υπό την καθοδήγησή της και την αίσθηση της συνεργασίας που την διακατέχει, πολλές πρωτοβουλίες για να ενωθεί περισσότερο η Κρητική νεολαία έχουν εφαρμοστεί. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 5 President’sMessage KPHTH, and has been there for any occasion or need. Zaharoula has been a true and loyal representative of her district. Rema Manousakis, Venizelion Scholarship Chair, for me, exemplifies the Cretan spirit of giving selflessly. More of a Cretan than many of us, I have often pondered who has more passion and love for Crete, Rema or me. She has somewhat made history in the PAA, being the first woman to serve on the board while her husband served as PAA president. She has been my sounding board, my editor, and my mentor. As Scholarship Chair, she has standardized her committee’s procedures, affected Constitutional changes, and ran the PAA scholarship program with professionalism. Helen (Vlastos) Ranney, Strategic Planning Committee Chair, has played a key role in my agenda as PAA president. When Helen assumed the responsibility of organizing the Leadership Conferences, I knew that the PAA was headed in the right direction. I just didn’t imagine what an effective job she was capable of doing and what incredible results she would achieve. When she also accepted the responsibility at the helm of gathering the information and assembling the long overdue Operations Manual, I knew that, with Helen’s organizational skills and knowhow, another of my goals would be easily achieved. Stacy Marakis, Information Technology (IT) Chair and Cretan Alumni Network (CAN) Chair, has played a key role in our association, not only in its present state, but also, and, more importantly, in the future needs of the PAA. She has assumed the IT responsibilities with the website, has created the bi-monthly PAA e-Newsletter, and keeps us informed of all new happenings. In an effort to bring back to the PAA those Cretans who have temporarily left, the 35-45 year olds, she has taken on the responsibility of organizing and energizing the Cretan Alumni Network (CAN). There are many other PAA women who, although not on the board, have contributed immensely to our association; among them Mary Vasilakis, Helene Semanderes, Tina Katsounakis, Diane Kounalakis, and many more throughout the country, too numerous to mention. I want to thank the women on my board and all the PAA women who have worked hard for the mission of our fine association. I feel proud to have had the privilege of serving along with them, side by side. They have enriched my life’s experience, have helped me do my job more effectively, and have taught me that we can accomplish much more if we show compassion toward our fellow man. Fraternally yours, Theodore Manousakis 6 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Ζαχαρούλα Μαρματάκη, Κυβερνήτης 2ας Περιφέρειας. Είναι μία ακούραστη εργάτρια, με αξιοθαύμαστη επιμονή και την ικανότητά της να εμπνέει τους συνεργάτες της. Έχει οργανώσει συναντήσεις Περιφέρειας και Ηγεσίας, έχει αναλάβει έργα, όπως την διαχείριση των διαφημίσεων της Χριστουγεννιάτικη έκδοση του περιοδικού KPHTH, και είναι πάντα πρόθυμη για κάθε περίσταση ή ανάγκη. Η Ζαχαρούλα είναι μια αληθινή και πιστή εκπρόσωπος της ΠΕΑ. Ρέμα Μανουσάκης, Πρόεδρος Υποτροφιών “Eλευθερίου Βενιζέλου”. Για μένα, αποτελεί το χαρακτηριστικό παράδειγμα του ανιδιοτελούς Κρητικού πνεύματος. Περισσότερο Κρητικιά από πολλούς από εμάς, πολλές φορές έχω αναρωτηθεί ποίος έχει περισσότερο πάθος και αγάπη για την Κρήτη, η Ρέμα ή εγώ. Έχει γράψει τη δική της ιστορία στην ΠΕΑ, καθώς είναι η πρώτη γυναίκα μέλος του Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου της ΠΕΑ, που ο σύζυγός της διετέλεσε πρόεδρος της ΠΕΑ. Είναι το αποκούμπι μου, ο συντάκτης μου, και ο μέντοράς μου. Ως Πρόεδρος των Υποτροφιών τυποποίησε τις διαδικασίες της επιτροπής της, συνέταξε συνταγματικές αλλαγές, και διεύθυνε το πρόγραμμα υποτροφιών της ΠΕΑ με επαγγελματισμό. Ελένη (Βλαστός) Ράννεϊ, Πρόεδρος Επιτροπής Στρατηγικού Σχεδιασμού. Η Ελένη έχει διαδραματίσει καθοριστικό ρόλο στην ατζέντα μου ως προέδρου της ΠΕΑ. Όταν ανέλαβε την ευθύνη της διοργάνωσης της Συνεδρίων Ηγεσία, ήξερα ότι η ΠΕΑ ήταν προς τη σωστή κατεύθυνση. Απλά δεν φαντάστηκα πόσο αποτελεσματική ήταν στην δουλειά της, και τι απίστευτα αποτελέσματα μπορούσε να επιτύχει. Όταν δέχτηκε επίσης την ευθύνη στο τιμόνι της συλλογής των πληροφοριών και τη σύνταξη του Εγχειρίδιου Λειτουργίας της ΠΕΑ, ήξερα ότι, με τις οργανωτικές δεξιότητες και τεχνογνωσία της Ελένης, ένας ακόμη από τους στόχους μου θα στεφόταν με επιτυχία εύκολα. Στέϊση Μαράκης, Διευθύντρια Τεχνολογίας και Πληροφοριών ΠΕΑ (IT) και Πρόεδρος του Κρητικού Δικτύου Αποφοίτων (CAN). Η Στέϊση έχει διαδραματίσει καθοριστικό ρόλο στον οργανισμό μας, όχι μόνο στην παρούσα κατάστασή του, αλλά επίσης, και το πιο σημαντικά, στις μελλοντικές ανάγκες της ΠΕΑ. Έχει αναλάβει τον τομέα Τεχνολογίας και Πληροφοριών της ΠΕΑ με ευθύνες την ιστοσελίδα, δημιούργησε το διμηνιαίο ηλεκτρονικό ενημερωτικό δελτίο (e-Newsletter), και μας κρατά ενήμερους για όλα τα νέα δρώμενα της ΠΕΑ. Σε μια προσπάθεια να φέρει πίσω στην ΠΕΑ τους Κρητικούς που την έχουν προσωρινά εγκαταλείψει, ηλικίας 35-45 ετών, έχει αναλάβει την ευθύνη της οργάνωσης και ενεργοποίησης του Κρητικού Δίκτυου Αποφοίτων (CAN). Υπάρχουν και πολλές άλλες γυναίκες στη ΠΕΑ οι οποίες, αν και δεν είναι στο Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο, έχουν συμβάλει πάρα πολύ στην οργάνωση μας. Μεταξύ των οποίων η Μαρία Βασιλάκη, Ελένη Σημαντήρη, Τίνα Κατσουνάκη, Νταϊάνα Κουναλάκη, και πολλές άλλες σε όλη τη χώρα, πάρα πολλές για να τις αναφέρουμε σε μερικές γραμμές. Θέλω να ευχαριστήσω τις γυναίκες στο Συμβούλιο μου και όλες τις γυναίκες της ΠΕΑ οι οποίες έχουν εργαστεί σκληρά για την αποστολή του οργανισμού μας. Νιώθω περήφανος που είχα το προνόμιο να υπηρετούμε μαζί τον ίδιο σκοπό. Έχουν εμπλουτίσει τις εμπειρίες της ζωής μου, με βοήθησαν να κάνω τη δουλειά μου πιο αποτελεσματικά, και με έχουν διδάξει ότι μπορούμε να επιτύχουμε πολύ περισσότερα εάν δείχνουμε συμπαράσταση προς τον συνάνθρωπό μας. Αδελφικά, Θεόδωρος Μανουσάκης Γράμματα Letters Αγαπητοί Κρήτες και Κρήσσες της Αμερικής Χριστός Ανέστη, ΠΕΑ μπορεί και πρέπει επιτέλους να αποκτήση την έδρα της εκεί που έχει αποφασιστεί. Πόσες φορές θα πρέπει να ψηφίσουμε για να γίνει κατανοητό ότι τα μέλη μας θέλουν να γίνει η έδρα στην Νέα Υόρκη, όχι για κανένα άλλο λόγο αλλά γιατί είναι το κέντρο του κόσμου, οι περισσότεροι οργανισμοί στην Νέα Υόρκη έχουν την έδρα τους και όλοι οι επίσημοι, όχι μόνο από την Ελλάδα αλλά και από τον κόσμο, πρώτα θα περάσουν από την Νέα Υόρκη και μετά θα επισκεφτούν οποιοδήποτε άλλο μέρος. Ξεφυλλίζοντας και διαβάζοντας τα νέα του αγαπητού περιοδικού μας ΚΡΗΤΗ, με μεγάλη έκπληξη και απογοήτευση, διαπίστωσα, ότι ο Πρόεδρος με άρθρο που προσυπογράφει, εμμέσως πλην σαφώς προσπαθεί την χρηματοδότηση της ανακαίνισης στο Maliotis Center στο Brookline, ΜΑ από την Παγκρητική. Ειλικρινά με εκπλήσσει η προσπάθεια που καταβάλει να ξοδευτούν $425,000.00 σε ένα αξιόλογο μεν, αλλά όχι ιδιοκτησίας της ΠΕΑ, το οποίο για να χρησιμοποιηθεί, θα πρέπει κάθε φορά να παίρνουν ειδική άδεια, αν θα είναι διαθέσιμο προς χρήση της ΠΕΑ. Σαν μέλος της ΠΕΑ, όπως και οι περισσότεροι Κρήτες της Αμερικής δεν θέλαμε να σπαταληθούν ξανά και να ζημιωθεί ξανά η οργάνωση μας με σοβαρά ποσά τα οποία στην ουσία δεν υπάρχουν. Όσο για τις δημοκρατικές διαδικασίες που αναφέρει ο κ. Πρόεδρος δεν είμαι και τόσο σίγουρος μια που ενώ προσυπογράφει το άρθρο δεν μας λέει επακριβώς αν το Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο της ΠΕΑ έλαβε συγκεκριμένη απόφαση και πια ήταν αυτή. Ευθύνη, πρωτίστως, για τον εκάστοτε Πρόεδρο, αλλά και για το Διοικητικό Συμβούλιο αφετέρου είναι να έχουν όραμα και διορατικότητα για το οικονομικό μέλλον της οργάνωσης μας. Καλά θα είναι να προλαμβάνουμε τα λάθη πριν γίνουν και προπάντων σε στιγμές που η παγκόσμια οικονομία είναι άσχημη, αλλά και τα οικονομικά των περισσοτέρων Συλλόγων μέλλων έχουν σοβαρά προβλήματα διαβίωσης. Τελειώνοντας θα ήθελα να ευχηθώ στους Κρήτες της Αμερικής και απανταχού, υγεία, ειρήνη, οικογενειακή και ατομική ευτυχία. Πιστεύω ότι είναι ο καταλληλότερος καιρός, λόγω του ότι είναι οι τιμές των ακινήτων σε μεγάλη πτώση και η Με τιμή Φώτης Φιωτοδημητράκης Πρώην Πρόεδρος Συλλόγου Κρητών ΝΥ Ομόνοια» Πρώην Γενικός Επόπτης ΠΕΑ δείτε... ακούστε... χαρείτε... Νιώστε Ελλάδα! Greek Elite Pack 02.03.2061 Απαιτείται συνδρομή στο International Basic package αξίας $10 ανά μήνα ή στο America’s Top package. $24.99 mo Όλες οι τιμές και τα πακέτα προγραμμάτων μπορεί να αλλάξουν χωρίς προειδοποίηση. Επιπρόσθετοι τοπικοί και πολιτειακοί φόροι μπορεί να μεταβάλουν την τελική τιμή. Τα προγράμματα είναι διαθέσιμα σε άτομα που διαμένουν σε οικίες μιας οικογένειας στις ηπειρωτικές πολιτείες των ΗΠΑ.Όλα τα προγράμματα του DISH Network και όλες οι υπηρεσίες που παρέχονται, υπόκεινται στους όρους του Promotional and Residential Customer Agreement το οποίο μπορούμε να σας αποστείλουμε εάν το ζητήσετε. Συσκευές και προγράμματα πωλούνται ξεχωριστά. Μια δεύτερη δορυφορική κεραία μπορεί να χρειάζεται για τη λήψη των διεθνών και Αμερικανικών προγραμμάτων. Όλες οι υπηρεσίες τα σήματα και τα λογότυπα ανήκουν στους αντίστοιχους ιδιοκτήτες τους. ©2011, DISH Network L.L.C. All rights reserved. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 7 District III Conference Weekend and Leadership Conference | May, 2011 By Toula Elefter, Recording Secretary The Cretan spirit is flourishing in Akron, Ohio. A full weekend of conference activities was hosted by the Akron Chapter. District III consists of the following Chapters: George Varouh Cretan Club of Cleveland; Knossos Cretan Club of Canton; Pancretan Association of Akron; Venizelos Cretan Club of Wheeling; Arkadi-Maleme of Pittsburgh; Manolakakis-Theodorakis of Youngstown-Warren; District III Youth; and Vianos Cretan Club of Columbus. Noula Kountis and Steve Elefter were the co-chairpersons for the District III Conference. In accordance with President Manousakis’ wish to increase communications between the PAA Board and members of the organization, a Leadership Conference was also scheduled in conjunction with the District III conference. Many representatives of the ten PAA chapters from District III kicked off the District III conference weekend during Welcome Night at Ahepa Hall on Friday, May 20. Members enjoyed live lyra entertainment by Mihalis Bakatsakis and Lukas Mandakakis. The District III Youth President, John Kopasakis led a meeting followed by the election of officers. Congratulations to the District III Youth Officers for 2011: John Kopasakis, President; Sophia Elefter, Vice President; Sophia Kopasakis, Secretary; and Yianni G. Detorakis, Treasurer. The meeting was well attended and with youth from the district. Congratulations! During the evening, the Akron Chapter served Gyros, pizza, mezedes, salad, and desserts. Thank you George Detorakis and committee for organizing a memorable Welcome Night as well as to Angelo Detorakis for preparing and serving delicious Gyros. In addition to entertainment from Crete, our very own District III talent performed. Jason Nicolacakis, Nikoli Semanderes, and Christo Semanderes played lyra and sang. In addition to Cretan music, Demetri Kountis (Akron PAA Chapter President) and Eleni Nikolaki (Cleveland) sang a variety of songs throughout the evening. Amazing 8 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 talent and passion for Cretan music was shared and enjoyed by all. Bravo Sas! On Saturday, May 21, the youth gathered at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation Multi-Cultural Hall for the Dance Workshop. Bob and Olga Markakis and their family traveled from Toronto, Canada, to teach and choreograph a performance for the conference. There were 62 dance workshop participants. Their children, Christos, Nikos, Kleanthi along with the following dance instructors enhanced three levels of performers (Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced): Jason Nicolacakis, George Ikonomakis, Stephanie Novotny, and Eleni Manos. Sas Efharistoume! While the participants and instructors of the Dance Workshop were practicing, the District III delegates met with our District III Governor, Stelios Vitakis. Many thanks to Kalliope Kamvouris, DellMarie Tsoras, Antha Poleondakis, Maria Vamvakis, and Lisa Catsoulakis for their diligence in sending postcards, letters, flyers, conference packages, and emails; creating delegate packages; and organizing the meeting. Many topics were discussed for the good of the Chapters and for District III. Congratulations to our newly elected District III officers: Stelios Vitakis, District III Governor; Kostas Bourbakis, Lieutenant Governor; Maria Vamvakis, Secretary; George J. Detorakis, Treasurer; and Noula Kountis, District III Youth Advisor. With little time to rest between the dance workshop and the District III Conference dinner, all gathered at the Church Hall for a family-style served menu consisting of chicken, beef tips, Greek style green beans, salad, and more. Dessert included kalitsounia prepared by Mrs. Lee Kipper. The xerotiganna served were prepared during the Akron Chapter’s first ever Xerotiganna Workshop the weekend before at Western Fruit Basket—thank you Koula and Angelo!! Father Jerry Hall gave the blessing and prayer. Eleni Nikolaki sang a beautiful song to welcome our dinner guests. From the District Νέα Περιφέρειας During dinner our very own Demetri Kountis sang a variety of beautiful Greek songs. Thank you Demetri and Eleni. Everyone in attendance enjoyed an amazing performance by the youth who participated in the 11th Annual District III Dance Workshop. Bob Markakis outstanding work shined through the dance group performance. Bravo to everyone—kai tou xronou! Loukoumades prepared by Demetri Manuselis were served throughout the evening, and at midnight vrasto and pilafi was served as well. Many thanks to Angelo Detorakis, Stavros Nikolaki, George Detorakis, and to Niko Pipilakis for serving the delicious traditional midnight meal. The hospitality continued during the early morning hours at the Kountis home where guests enjoyed soup and good fellowship. As stated in the PAA constitution, Article 8, the members and officers attended church on Sunday, May 22. A special memorial service to remember “H Maxi tis Kritis” followed by coffee hour at the church hall completed the District III Conference activities. Many thanks Cleo Manos and the ladies of the Akron Chapter who baked paximathia and koulourakia for Sunday. District III Leadership Conference This marks the 6th Leadership Conference held across the country to forge a new, stronger communication between the leaders of the local chapters and those of the National Board. District Governor Stelios Vitakis coordinated and kicked off the District III Leadership Conference on May 22 in Akron, Ohio. 17 chapter leaders, representing the District III chapters attended this conference to address issues affecting their members, share their success stories, and ask questions of our national leaders. In addition to President Manousakis, also there representing the board were 1st Vice President John Manos, General Secretary Erasmia Novotny, Scholarship Chair Rema Manousakis, District IV Governor Nick Verikakis, and Strategic Planning Chair Helen Ranney. Joining them were PAA Legal Advisor James Denney, who is also the Vice President of the Nikolakakis-Manolakis chapter, former PAA President Stavros Semanderes, and his wife, Helene, who serves on the KPHTH Editorial Board, and Mary Vasilakis, former Women’s Executive Director and former PEF Chair. President Manousakis outlined his goals of the meeting and expressed his appreciation to all the participants on taking an active role to share their ideas with him and the officers that attended. He took the opportunity to explain the financial status of the organization and how programs and operational expenses are funded. The President urged the chapter leaders to review upcoming recommendations that will be presented at the convention requesting approval for restructuring our dues. He also discussed how important they are in helping to bring cultural events to their cities. Following his comments, 1st Vice President Manos shared his personal history of the PAA and how it has played a vital role in his and his family’s life. He then moderated breakout groups of the participants who spent time sharing ideas with each other and with all of the attendees on how to increase chapter membership and participation. They also brainstormed ideas on how to generate more involvement from youth members. All of their ideas were collected and are being distributed to them and past district participants in hopes that they will be considered by chapters across the country to strengthen their clubs. Helen Ranney distributed a Reference Binder to each chapter and reviewed its contents which includes membership information, PAA program summaries, tips on holding meetings and event planning, and constitutions, among other things. The feedback from those in attendance was very positive and confirmed what we all felt since these conferences began: that open, honest, face-to-face communications is critical. Sharing ideas, clarifying information, and addressing the concerns of members pave the way for a stronger, healthier PAA. Thanks to Akron for hosting the District III Conference. Thanks to District Governor Vitakis for bringing his team together for the Leadership Conference. Thanks to Noula Kountis and Steve Elefter for coordinating the weekend events and the leadership meeting along with dozens of others responsible over the weekend and for making all the local arrangements. A special thanks to the District III chapter leaders for their attendance and participation! JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 9 Cover Story Eξώφυλλο PAA’s Cretan Honey Bees The Eight Inspirational Jewels of the PAA By Tina Padas-Mavroudis How are honeybees and the eight women on our PAA board alike? Let’s say that the PAA is quite similar to that of the Queen Bee in a beehive. Therefore each cell in the honeycomb is similar to the individual chapters. Take it one-quick wingspan further and we see that the eight ladies on the PAA board can be compared to the honeybees who serve and honor the Queen Bee.. Why is this true? This is true as they gather fragrant nectar from the flowering ideas of their own and of others, and diligently labor and bring them to fruition in the PAA. The sweetness of their efforts are done in good taste; without complaint or the mention of the word “sacrifice” emitting from their lips, even though they certainly make sacrifices on a daily basis in their commitment to their positions. Take note to the type of positive and passionate einterview responses forthcoming,(in protocol order)not only from one, but from each of these fine women… We begin with Erasmia (Vlastos) Novotny, from Michigan, the PAA’s General Secretary, whose responsibilities entail many intricate and extensive duties. She is also the PAA Archives Chair lady, collecting and organizing ar10 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 chives received from all parts of the U.S. Erasmia is the unappointed “problem-solver” and“resource-librarian” of the PAA. In addition, she is a member of several subcommittees. When asked, “How do you fit PAA into your daily lifestyle?” Erasmia responds thusly, “PAA IS my daily lifestyle. It took over, many years ago. Luckily, the economy went bad and I don’t feel bad putting my business second. For many years, juggling both of them full time was quite a challenge”. Furthermore, she informs us that; “The PAA has given me, from the time I was in the PYA, life-long friendships and extended family throughout the country. It is a joy to see the same benefits with my children, as a result from my involvement. Our father who was a founding PAA member had always said; “never forget who you are and where you came from.” PAA helped me understand this and live it”. Cover Story Eξώφυλλο Erasmia’s dreams for the PAA?..., “A permanent completed home for our Archives, (from national and chapter levels), of our chapters and where our former PAA Presidents portraits will line the walls and their archives stored as their legacy. A village in Crete from where we and our families can base ourselves, (Minoan Village) among friends and family from the US, a national hosting program throughout the country to accommodate visitors from other states or abroad,and a mentoring program to help our people establish themselves in their careers and professions.” In honeybee terms, Erasmia is the wax that protects and preserves the beehive. This beeswax simultaneously keeps the PAA flame aglow. Maria Stratoudakis, from New York, is the PAA Women’s Executive Director, and exemplifies the multitasked characteristics shared by these eight women. Maria currently works as a school aide within the Public School Administration Dept. of N.Y. She has played an active role in her women’s chapter, “Pasiphae” of Omonoia, since 1994. In addition, for the past 25 years, she has enjoyed being involved with her local Philoptochos and P.T.A. of St. Nicholas Church in Flushing, N.Y. Maria explains in her own words regarding her position in the PAA, “Besides my other responsibilities, my first priority is to keep the communication between the PAA board and the women’s chapters, coordinate any projects and propose goals for the future, help raise funds, and work on the archives committee. I believe in the saying, If there is a will, there is a way, which guided me to have the pleasant opportunity of visiting 7 of the 8 women’s chapters in the U.S., where we exchanged ideas and set forth goals for the future. This offers me the experience, first hand, to find at every corner of the U.S.A, a Crete away from Crete. I hope to reach my goal and look forward to meeting with the eighth chapter in the near future.” The interview concludes with Maria telling us how much a privilege and a joy it is to serve on the PAA board…“Every member of the PAA should be proud of our pioneers and our organization. We have to keep and pass our history and culture to our youth. My dream is to see a PAA- bigger and stronger into the next generation. I believe that we are following the right path.” It might be fitting to say that Maria Stratoudakis represents the honeybees’ task of gathering nectar from the many fragrant flowering plants. After all, how many mantinades are written describing a woman as zoumbouli, louloudi, viola, yiasemietc., etc.?! Maria Antonakakis Makropoulos, of New Jersey is the PAA Auditor General. This is how she describes her task, “The mission of the Auditor General is to help the PAA Board achieve its financial and operational objectives by conducting audit reviews that promote accountability and financial integrity and also by providing recommendations to improve operations and reduce costs.” Maria is an asset to our organization, coming to us with over 20 years of financial experience serving the banking and telecommunications industry, supporting Fortune 500 companies. She has held various management and officer positions. She lets us in on her daily life and says, “Being the mother of three young children and a full time professional, my days are very long…My husband has always been very supportive of my service at the local chapter level and shares my commitment to serve on the PAA Board. Organization is a key role, as is the understanding of non-profit organization guidelines. I work closely with the PAA Treasurer in addressing financial concerns, which are reviewed and analyzed at different times in the month. In addition, there is time spent preparing tax related information for IRS submissions during the year, and responding to questions that come from our chapters and assisting them with their non-profit financial inquiries. The PAA Board meetings & Leadership conferences are another great opportunity for the Board to establish trust and respect for the work of everyone involved and to put our finger on the pulse of the local Chapters’ needs, so that the PAA can better address them.” Maria acknowledges the benefits of the PAA by saying,“It is an honor and privilege to serve the PAA. My parents instilled in their children the responsibility and obligation of preserving and perpetuating our Hellenic heritage and faith and the PAA experience has offered me a chance to do this. I have had the opportunity to meet many great Cretan people in my PAA travels and am always impressed by their positive energy and zeal to work hard for their families and communities. I’m always inspired by their generous spirit and moved by their warm hospitality and abundant kindness. It is an extraordinary and rewarding experience. Being involved always afforded me the chance to influence decisions and affect the progress of the PAA.” Maria shares her dreams: “We are living in changing times and the dynamics of life are very different in this generation and forward. The PAA must be more inclusive and open to new ideas, while preserving the essence of our heritage and Cretan values. I would like to see more young women and men join the PAA. When we are involved, we have the unique opportunity to influence decisions and as a result positively affect the prosperity and future of the organization. Being closer to the dilemmas and concerns of the next generation, can offer important insight to programs needed to protect our values and our very existence. Having JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 11 Cover Story Eξώφυλλο young professionals assume leadership positions, offers them an extraordinary chance to share their talents, pay forward what they have received and also become great role models for others to follow.” Maria’s task of keeping a constant financial watch over the PAA is analogous to the ever-attentive five-eyed honeybee. Eleni Sopasis of New York is the PYA President. Her key role is overseeing 17 active youth chapters across the country by handling the PYA’s everyday tasks, representing the youth wherever and whenever necessary, and reporting all its activity to the PAA.This includes her innovative and informative monthly column in the KΡHTH magazine bringing us exciting accounts and pictures from the events and endeavors of our youth. As Eleni tells us, “Although I have set “on duty” and “off duty” hours during the week, on the weekend I am a full time Cretan!” “Words cannot describe the benefits I’ve received from being involved in the PAA, what I have learned, in addition to giving me the best years of my life,” she states enthusiastically. She concludes by sharing these poignant thoughts,“The dream I would love to see fulfilled is for the PAA, as a whole, to respect and acknowledge the youth more. Commend them for their love and dedication to a culture that may easily deteriorate as each generation continues. The more you criticize and argue with youth members, the faster they disappear.” Progress happens when we learn from our past and incorporate the new with the old. This can only happen if we take heed to what our youth has to say. When we respect our youth, congruently, we respect ourselves for what we have taught, instilled upon, and how we have nurtured them. Eleni holds the responsibility of keeping the young bees in order and maintaining an open “buzz” between the generations. Zaharoula Marmatakis of New Jersey is the District II Governor. The responsibilities of a District Governor may seem endless. Their main purpose is to serve as liaison, the connecting link, between PAA and the chapters of the District. The District Governor is required to participate in all PAA National Board teleconferences and Board Meetings and transmit to the Chapters all information received from PAA; inform PAA of any concerns that chapters may have; attend as many chapter events as possible; help the National Secretary with the collection of the dues from the chapters; help the 2nd VP collect ads for the Christmas Issue, help the Scholarship chair identify the eligibility of the scholarship recipients and distribute them when issued. As Zaharoula tells us,“The past two years fulfilling my many responsibilities 12 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 towards my district and PAA has been my first priority. I have devoted all my time to the district and the PAA. Thinking about all the hard work involved for the past two years and try to evaluate the outcome, I can assure you that I don’t regret anything, I enjoyed every minute of it.” Concerning the benefits of the PAA, Zaharoula enlightens us: “Even long before I was elected as District Governor, it was and is a way of living for my whole family... I’m quite fortunate to have my two sons sharing the same passion for our syllogos and PAA, as me. Our involvement with the organization has kept us very close as a family. We always go together to all the Cretan events and living in the most active area of PAA, from September to the end of June, every weekend, we always attend some type of Cretan function. That is truly wonderful! Attending the PAA National Conventions over the years we have had the pleasure to meet many wonderful people and have made many good and true friends. I’m extremely thankful to PAA for all that.” She continues, “My dream is for PAA to stay strong. I would like to see members to be active, offer as much as they can to the organization and encourage, by their example, other members to participate. We all have to CARE. It is a responsibility of ALL not a FEW, to preserve our culture for new generations. KPHTH is depending on us and we should never let it down. We must have respect for each other, mutual understanding, leave our personal pride aside and work together for our CRETAN PRIDE. Use constructive criticism, encourage, support, respect, understand and advise the youth.” Considering the vast size of the 2nd District(the largest district of the PAA with 18 active chapters it makes up 32% of the PAA) Zaharoula’s responsibilities become multiplied. Yet, she maintains a “mini-beehive” within the main hive and still makes time to write prolific mantinades, and create Cretan-themed decorations, sweets and favors for any event, on-call! Rema Manousakis of Washington, D. C. is the Venizelion Scholarship Chair. In addition, she serves as a member on the Editorial Board of KPHTH Magazine, as well as several other committees. She chairs the Scholarship Committee with flair and compassion, doing her utmost to ensure that each student candidate receives every consideration granted within the specifications and qualifications that merit a scholarship. “Besides my own involvement, my husband is the president of the association, Cover Story Eξώφυλλο which makes our involvement all encompassing; therefore, it has been a challenge, but a worthwhile one!” she says, emphatically. According to Rema, the PAA has contributed to her life by affording her friendships that will last a lifetime. Her dream for the PAA is, “that it will continue to prosper in this age of global assimilation. The PAA offers that “glue” in keeping people together with its philanthropic, cultural and educational programs that, hopefully, will see the PAA through this century and beyond!” As we know of the honeybees social skills, Rema sets a friendly and elegant example- the most necessary traits for any “First Lady”. Helen (Vlastos) Ranney from Michigan, chairs the Strategic Planning Committee, is a Trustee for the Pancretan Endowment Fund, a member on the KPHTH Editorial Board and locally, is a member and former officer of the Cretan Ladies Society of Detroit. Within Helen’s daily life style, she is fortunate to be retired and thusly able to dedicate more time to her PAA commitments. Much of those activities are handled via pre-scheduled teleconferences, which are also a blessing in disguise regarding time management, communication and paperwork. In Helen’s words, “The other work I do is based on just sitting down and doing what needs to be done. Being retired clearly affords me more time to dedicate to the projects I work on, even though there never seems to be enough hours in the day to get everything done! Some projects require the input or feedback of others which makes it more difficult to complete “my” work, but that comes with the territory.” Helen also remarks about her career skills,“The PAA has given me the opportunity to apply many of my past professional skills (such as strategic planning, sales, marketing, human resources, and corporate affairs) to strengthen our organization. It has put me in a small position providing input to decisions that are made and providing tools for other members to help them make a stronger impact on the success of the Association.” While Helen continues to provide for the PAA, she reflects on what she has gained and experienced in return, “the opportunity to travel across the country for meetings, workshops, conferences, and conventions that has given me the chance to meet some pretty amazing Cretans who are making a significant impact in their local communities!” In short and put in bee terms, Helen manages the “Royal Jelly” that is fed to our Queen Bee– the PAA. Helen reveals to us that,“…I would like to see my dream for PAA fulfilled one day, to evolve into an organization that is recognized to a level similar to that of AHEPA and other national cultural and philanthropic organizations: to one that provides enrichment to all people of Cretan descent.” Stacy Marakis of Chicago has two roles, as IT Chair, and CAN Chair. Stacy tells us how she fits responsibilities for the PAA within her daily life style and occupation, “It really keeps me busy, as I have two very active committees. Moreover, I work as a consultant, which is an extremely demanding career choice. The IT work has some responsibilities almost daily. As the Cretan Alumni Network was a newly formed committee, we needed to lay down a foundation, as it was ill defined. We started building and determined that our main objective was to communicate with past members, redeveloping interest in PAA again, and encouraging people to attend the convention this summer. We have three exciting “alumni” type events planned for the Convention and we are busy preparing for those.” The dream Stacy would like to see fulfilled is to see many of the past active PYA members return to the senior organization and take active leadership roles, either as Chairs to committees, or joining as active committee members. For the cultural events to serve more towards “Cretan American” needs. And finally, for the members of PAA to learn more about the rich culture and history of Crete, beyond the dancing.” “As for what I have personally gained from PAA, I have met many inspiring and interesting individuals. It has been very energizing and stimulating to see people from the past with a sparked interest to return and attend the convention,” says Stacy. She further enlightens us with these comments, “My consulting is in IT in the mid to large manufacturing companies. So, my work does not benefit from PAA at all...I am just technologically minded (not the common “girl” interests). I just get excited and stimulated to see things succeed and progress. Whatever I do, I try to put my 100+ percent into it. Such as when we started the e-Newsletter, it was amazing to see the overwhelming response. Communication helps bring people together. I remember Ted (Manousakis) attending a meeting or dance out west, and there was a big group that traveled from another state, because they found out about the event from the newsletter. Basically, I am given a task or a challenge, and I try to execute it.” Stacy sets a fine example of bringing a new swarm of bee intelligence to the PAA, a state-of-the-art savvy promise towards the future. All in all, we have read these individual women’s short bio’s and comments and notice that the similarities to the honeybee are complementary. As a matter of fact, honeybees are known to dance in a circle. Perchance, one day, as you socialize and join their dance, you will be pleasantly stung with inspiration to be a part of the swarm. The most famous Cretan Honey is made from “thymari” It is called thyme in English, pronounced, “time”. If we all give a little more time we will reap its sweet rewards. As beekeepers make every effort to preserve honeybees from extinction, let us not be observers but doers, to preserve our PAA. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 13 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ Συμβάλετε στη Γέφυρα Αμερική-Κρήτη Οι μονάδες χρονομεριστικής μίσθωσης του Μινωικού Πολιτιστικού Χωριού της ΠΕΑ στο Ατσιπόπουλο της Κρήτης. Αγαπητοί Κρητικοί και φίλοι μας: Με την ευλογία του Θεού και τη συμμετοχή σας, θα εξασφαλιστεί η μακροπρόθεσμη επιβίωση της ΚρητικήςΕλληνικής πολιτιστικής μας κληρονομιάς στην Αμερική. Προϋποθέτω ότι θα ανταποκριθούμε στην πρόκληση της δημιουργίας μιας γέφυρας που θα συνδέει εμάς και μελλοντικές γενιές Κρητικών της Αμερικής με τις ρίζες μας στην Κρήτη. Αυτή η γέφυρα δεν είναι άλλη από το Μινωικό Πολιτιστικό Χωριό της ΠΕΑ στο Ατσιπόλουλο της Κρήτης. Η ευκαιρία είναι εδώ και δεν πρέπει να τη χάσουμε. Τα επτά acres (περίπου 30 στρέμματα) γης που αποτιμήθηκε στα 1.200.000 Ευρώ είναι ένα δώρο από το Θεό μέσω της Εκκλησίας του Αγίου Ελευθερίου Ατσιποπούλου. Έχουν ολοκληρωθεί τα σχέδια για το μόνιμο σπίτι μας στην Κρήτη για τις επόμενες γενιές. Η οικοδομική βιομηχανία στην Κρήτη βρίσκεται σε ύφεση και οι τιμές είναι ιδιαίτερα ευνοϊκές για οικοδόμηση. Η οικονομική βοήθεια από το Ελληνικό Κράτος είναι πιθανή, με την ταυτόχρονη λαϊκή υποστήριξη από εσάς. Οι πρόγονοί μας, γονείς, παππούδες και γιαγιάδες ανταποκρίθηκαν πολλές φορές στις προκλήσεις της εποχής τους για να βοηθήσουν την Κρήτη σε πολύ δύσκολους καιρούς. Στη πιο δύσκολη φάση της μεγάλης ύφεσης (great 14 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 depression) συγκέντρωσαν $80.000 για την καταπολέμηση της φυματίωσης στην Κρήτη. Κατά το Δεύτερο Παγκόσμιο Πόλεμο, συγκέντρωσαν και έστειλαν στην Κρήτη πολλά ρούχα. Μετά τον πόλεμο συγκέντρωσαν περισσότερα από $300.000 για να βοηθήσουν στην ανέγερση νοσοκομείων στην Κρήτη. Το 1952, σε μία μόνο δεξίωση, συγκέντρωσαν περισσότερα από $90.000 για να εξασφαλίσουν προίκες για τα νεαρά ορφανά κορίτσια στην Κρήτη. Στα τέλη της δεκαετίας του 1970 συγκέντρωσαν περισσότερα από $250.000 για να βοηθήσουν στην ίδρυση του Πανεπιστημίου Κρήτης, ποσό που χρησιμοποιήθηκε για τη χρηματοδότηση των πρώτων Πανεπιστημιακών Εκδόσεων στην Ελλάδα. Τώρα είναι η δική μας σειρά να ανταποκριθούμε στις προκλήσεις των καιρών μας και να διατηρήσουμε την Κρητική-Ελληνική πολιτιστική μας κληρονομιά στην Αμερική, για μια καλύτερη Αμερική. Κάθε οικογένεια, κάθε Σωματείο και κάθε Κρητική επιχείρηση πρέπει να συμμετέχει, επενδύοντας έτσι στις μελλοντικές γενιές των Κρητικών-Αμερικανών. Το Μινωικό Πολιτιστικό Χωριό της ΠΑΕ θα γίνει μια κολυμβήθρα βαφτίσεως της ΚρητικήςΕλληνικής πολιτιστικής μας κληρονομιάς για τα παιδιά μας, τους φίλους μας και τους συνεργάτες μας για πολλές επόμενες γενιές. Η εγκατάσταση στην πανέμορφη Κρήτη Special Report Ρεπορτάζ δεν θα παρέχει μόνο μια ασφαλή σύνδεση με τις ρίζες μας, αλλά θα παράγει επίσης περισσότερα από $200.000 ετησίως για την ΠΕΑ, ποσό που μπορεί να χρησιμοποιηθεί για την προώθηση των πολιτιστικών και φιλανθρωπικών της επιδιώξεων. Με μια μικρή επένδυση από κάθε έναν μας, θα διασφαλίσουμε την επιβίωση της ΠΕΑ για το μέλλον, ώστε να συνεχίσει το εξαιρετικό έργο της να κάνει την Αμερική ένα καλύτερο μέρος για όλους μας. Σας ζητούμε να γίνετε κι εσείς ένας υποστηρικτής αυτού του ευγενούς έργου της ΠΕΑ. Η ώρα για δράση είναι τώρα - διαφορετικά θα χαθεί αυτή η ευκαιρία. Η προσφορά που παρουσιάζεται εδώ είναι χρήσιμη για εσάς και για την ΠΕΑ. Η τιμή βασίζεται στο προβλεπόμενο 2/5/2011. Η πρώτη αγοραστής χρονομεριστικής μίσθωσης (timeshare) Ερασμία Νοβότνυ με την μητέρα της Διαμάντω, τον αδερφό την Μιχάλη, τον Πρόεδρο της ΠΕΑ κ. Μανουσάκη και τον Πρώην Πρόεδρο της ΠΕΑ κόστος και είναι πολύ χαμηλότερη από την τιμή της αγοράς για παρόμοιες διευθετήσεις ακινήτων κ. Σημαντήρη. στην Κρήτη. Όταν ολοκληρωθεί αυτό το έργο, θα μπορείτε να απολαύσετε τις επισκέψεις σας στην Κρήτη και Τι προσφέρουμε; να εξασφαλίσετε επίσης ένα θερμό και φιλόξενο σπίτι για Προσφέρουμε την κράτηση για την αγορά μιας τις μελλοντικές γενιές των Κρητικών-Αμερικανών που δεν χρονομεριστικής μίσθωσης (timeshare) στο ξενοδοχείο της θα υπάρχει πια μια γιαγιά, μια θεία ή οποιονδήποτε στενό εγκατάστασης. Συγκεκριμένα, κάθε μονάδα χρονομεριστικής συγγενή να επισκεφτούν. μίσθωσης είναι μια σουίτα ενός υπνοδωματίου για μία Παρακαλούμε ανταποκριθείτε σε αυτήν την προσφορά εβδομάδα και για 20 συνεχόμενα χρόνια. Η τιμή για σήμερα και παροτρύνετε τους φίλους σας να συμμετάσχουν μια σουίτα αυτού του είδους είναι $8.000 με ετήσια στη δημιουργία αυτής της γέφυρας προς τις Κρητικέςχρέωση συντήρησης 300* Ευρώ. Η τιμή μιας σουίτας Ελληνικές ρίζες μας. δύο υπνοδωματίων θα είναι $20.000 με ετήσια χρέωση συντήρησης 500* Ευρώ. Το ξενοδοχείο έχει 32 σουίτες ενός υπνοδωματίου και 6 σουίτες δύο υπνοδωματίων. Η μονάδα έχει αξιολόγηση Πέντε Αστέρων, που περιλαμβάνει κρεβάτια μεγέθους King Size. Αυτή η προσφορά αφορά στην πώληση 500 μονάδων από τις οποίες οι 250 μονάδες θα Το Μινωικό Πολιτιστικό Χωριό της ΠΕΑ στο Ατσιπόπουλο περιλαμβάνουν την επιλογή μίσθωσης για διάστημα έως 60 της Κρήτης έχει προχωρήσει έως το στάδιο όπου απαιτεί ετών με μειωμένο πρόσθετο κόστος. πλέον την οικονομική σας συμμετοχή για να συνεχίσει. Η * Υπόκειται σε κατά περιόδους ρυθμίσεις βάσει του αποστολή αυτής της εγκατάστασης είναι η δημιουργία του πληθωρισμού μετά την έναρξη των εργασιών. δικού μας «σπιτιού» στην Κρήτη, το οποίο θα μπορούν να επισκέπτονται οι μελλοντικές οικογένειες των Κρητών της Πώς θα πραγματοποιούνται οι κρατήσεις; Αμερικής, όπου θα μπορούν με άνεση να διατηρούν την Για να κάνετε μια κράτηση, πρέπει να υπογράψετε επαφή τους με την πανέμορφη Κρήτη και την Ελληνικήμια σύμβαση με την PAA-MVI και να καταθέσετε μια Κρητική πολιτιστική μας κληρονομιά. προκαταβολή 20% (ή $1.600) για μια σουίτα ενός Η χορηγία της οικονομικής βοήθειας από την Ελληνική υπνοδωματίου ή $4.000 για μια σουίτα δύο υπνοδωματίων. Κυβέρνηση εκκρεμεί ακόμα, αλλά εμείς πρέπει να Η κατάθεση θα διατηρηθεί σε έναν τοκοφόρο λογαριασμό προχωρήσουμε, με τους δικούς μας πόρους. Η ανάπτυξη μεσεγγύησης (escrow) σε οικονομικό οργανισμό εγγυημένο και διαχείριση της πραγματικής επιχείρησης θα γίνει από από την FDIC. Η «κρίσιμη μάζα» για αυτό το έργο είναι η μια κερδοσκοπική θυγατρική της ΠΕΑ με ονομασία «PAAπώληση 500 μονάδων. Εάν δεν επιτευχθεί αυτή η «κρίσιμη Minoan Cultural Village, Inc.» (εις το εξής «PAA-MCV»). Η μάζα» έως το τέλος του Μαρτίου 2012, θα επιστραφεί ΠΕΑ θα διατηρεί την πλειοψηφία και το μερίδιο ελέγχου η προκαταβολή σας συν τους τόκους που θα έχουν της PAA-MCV. Επειδή αυτή η οντότητα δεν θα ιδρυθεί συσσωρευτεί έως τότε. έως ότου η επιχείρηση είναι σίγουρη, το Δ.Σ. της ΠΕΑ έχει αναθέσει στην «PAA-Minoan Village, Inc.» την ευθύνη Πώς μπορώ να κάνω μια κράτηση; της διεξαγωγής της «Πρώτης Προσφοράς» στα μέλη μας, Μπορείτε να κάνετε μια κράτηση στέλνοντάς μας για να προσδιορίσει το βαθμό της υποστήριξης. Η PAAτο απόκομμα αυτού του εντύπου. Θα σας στείλουμε τη MVI είναι μια οντότητα «501 (C)» που έχει σαν αποστολή σύμβαση που θα υπογράψετε και θα στείλετε σε μας με την προαγωγή της ανάπτυξης αυτού του κέντρου για τη την προκαταβολή του 20% σε εντολή «PAA-MVI». Μια διάδοση του Ελληνικού-Κρητικού πολιτισμού. ΠΡΩΤΗ ΠΡΟΣΦΟΡΑ! JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 15 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ εναλλακτική μέθοδος είναι να εκτυπώσετε τη σύμβαση από τον ιστότοπό μας PAAMCV.COM, να την υπογράψετε και να τη στείλετε σε εμάς με την προκαταβολή του 20%. Μπορείτε να ταχυδρομήσετε το επισυναπτόμενο απόκομμα, συμπεριλαμβάνοντας τις πληροφορίες που χρειαζόμαστε για να σας στείλουμε το πακέτο, ή να στείλετε με email την αίτησή σας στη διεύθυνση [email protected] με κοινοποίηση στη διεύθυνση [email protected] P FOUNTAIN ENTRY COURT MINOAN PALACE PLAYGROUND CENTRAL COURT P LOGGIA Μπορεί αυτή η προκαταβολή να αποτελεί φορολογική έκπτωση; Όχι! Ένας από τους POOL λόγους για το άνοιγμα ενός TENNIS ξεχωριστού τραπεζικού COURTS DAEDALUS VILLAGE λογαριασμού μεσεγγύησης (escrow) είναι να υπάρχει διαφάνεια και ξεκάθαρο ποσό της δωρεάς στην τιμή αγοράς του και μονοπάτι ελέγχου (audit trail). η PAA-MVI θα χρησιμοποιήσει το χρόνο για Αυτό προστατεύει την κατάσταση τη φιλοξενία θερινών προγραμμάτων για τους 501 (C) 3 της PAA-MVI. νέους μας. Η PAA-MVI θα αγοράσει η ίδια μερίδια χρονομεριστικής μίσθωσης για την υποστήριξη των θερινών εκπαιδευτικών Γιατί πρέπει να συμμετάσχω; προγραμμάτων για τους νέους μας και οποιεσδήποτε Αποτελεί μια καλή επένδυση για τη διατήρηση της δωρεές πραγματοποιηθούν για αυτό το σκοπό στην PAAεπαφής σας με την οικογένειά σας στην Κρήτη. Θα έχετε MVI θα είναι φορολογικά εκπιπτόμενες σύμφωνα με τους ένα άνετο μέρος για να μένετε, χωρίς να ανησυχείτε, για κανόνες του IRS. να συναντιέστε με τους φίλους σας, να απολαύσετε την Ποιος μπορεί να αγοράσει μερίδια σε αυτήν την προσφορά; Ελπίζουμε ότι τα μέλη μας και οι Σύλλογοι θα αγοράσουν τις 500 μονάδες αυτής της προσφοράς, αλλά καλωσορίζουμε και οποιονδήποτε φιλέλληνα. Μετά την πώληση των 500 μονάδων αυτής της προσφοράς, θα είμαστε έτοιμοι να αρχίσουμε. Τότε, θα ιδρυθεί η PAA-MCV και θα αναλάβει την ανάπτυξη. Η PAA-MCV θα καθορίσει τις τιμές των περαιτέρω προσφορών, που κατά πάσα πιθανότητα θα είναι σημαντικά υψηλότερες. Τι θα συμβεί εάν δεν πάμε στην Κρήτη για ορισμένα χρόνια; Με μια γραπτή κοινοποίηση μπορείτε να διαθέσετε για χρήση τη μονάδα σας στην εγκατάσταση σε μέλη της οικογενείας, φίλους ή πελάτες σας. Εναλλακτικά, εάν έχετε στείλει γραπτή κοινοποίηση ενός μήνα ή παραπάνω, δεν θα έχετε ευθύνη για τη χρέωση συντήρησης και η PAA-MCV θα νοικιάσει τη σουίτα σας. Τα έσοδα από την ενοικίαση θα χρησιμοποιηθούν κατά πρώτον για τη χρέωση συντήρησης και τα υπόλοιπα χρήματα θα μοιραστούν, με τον ιδιοκτήτη να λαμβάνει 75% του υπολοίπου. Μια άλλη επιλογή θα ήταν να κάνετε μια δωρεά του χρόνου ενοικίασης στην PAA-MVI, η οποία είναι μια οντότητα 501(C) 3. Θα λάβετε φορολογική απαλλαγή για το 16 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Κρήτη και να μάθετε περισσότερα για την πολιτιστική μας κληρονομιά. Αποτελεί μια καλή επένδυση για το μέλλον της ΠΕΑ επειδή τα πραγματοποιηθέντα κέρδη από τη λειτουργία αυτής της εγκατάστασης μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν για να βοηθήσουν τη νεολαία μας και άλλες ομάδες να επισκεφτούν την Κρήτη. Οι εγκαταστάσεις του Πανεπιστημίου Κρήτης που απέχουν λιγότερο από ένα μίλι μακριά, μας παρέχουν μια εξαιρετική ευκαιρία για τη διεξαγωγή εκπαιδευτικών και πολιτιστικών προγραμμάτων. Αποτελεί μια καλή οικονομική επένδυση επειδή η τιμή είναι πολύ πιο κάτω από τις τιμές της αγοράς και μπορείτε να μεταπωλήσετε το μερίδιο χρονομεριστικής μίσθωσης με κέρδος. Ο μόνος περιορισμός είναι ότι στην περίπτωση μιας τέτοιας πώλησης, πρέπει να δοθεί στην ΠΕΑ η πρώτη επιλογή άρνησης. Επίσης, «κλείνετε» τις τιμές του σήμερα για το μέλλον. Όλοι μας γνωρίζουμε ότι ο πληθωρισμός και μόνο θα προκαλέσει αυξήσεις στις τιμές της αγοράς. Αγοράζοντας τώρα, «κλειδώνετε» το κόστος των ταξιδιών σας για τα επόμενα 20 χρόνια σε τιμές χαμηλότερες από τις σημερινές. Τι είδους μεταφορικά μέσα θα είναι διαθέσιμα; Η εγκατάσταση θα έχει μια υπηρεσία με όχημα τύπου Van για τη μεταφορά των επισκεπτών στην πόλη και στις παραλίες του Ρεθύμνου. Θα υπάρχουν συμβάσεις με τοπικές εταιρείες ενοικίασης αυτοκινήτων για την παροχή ενοικιαζόμενων αυτοκινήτων στους επισκέπτες σε πολύ Special Report Ρεπορτάζ BATH BATH BEDROOM 4.93 m² 4.93 m² COMMON 20.51 m² BEDROOM COMMON 20.67 m² 18.38 m² 18.38 m² B9 B10 BEDROOM B11 20.86 m² HALL 16.11 m² COMMON 19.77 m² KITCHENETTE TYPICAL OF UNIT TYPE KITCHENETTE TYPICAL OF UNIT TYPE BEDROOM COMMON 20.67 m² 18.38 m² COMMON 42.84 m² HALL BATH BATH 3.93 m² 5.73 m² 5.31 m² BATH 4.93 m² καλές τιμές. Θα υπάρχουν συμβάσεις με τοπικές εταιρείες ταξί για επισπευσμένες υπηρεσίες στους επισκέπτες σε καλές τιμές. Ο/η ρεσεψιονίστ θα παρέχει κάθε αναγκαία βοήθεια για κάθε διευθέτηση. Ποιες είναι οι ευθύνες μου εάν προχωρήσει αυτό το έργο; Όταν αρχίσει αυτό το έργο, πρέπει να υπογράψετε μια σύμβαση πώλησης/αγοράς με τη διαχειριστική οντότητα της PAA-MCV. Τα δικηγορικά έξοδα, που υπολογίζονται σε 400 Ευρώ η λιγότερα, θα πληρωθούν από τον αγοραστή. Εκείνη τη στιγμή θα πρέπει να πληρώσετε την επόμενη δόση του 30% της τιμής. Η αρχική κατάθεση και τα νέα κεφάλαια θα διατεθούν για την κατασκευή του ξενοδοχείου. Όταν η κατασκευή ολοκληρωθεί σε σημαντικό βαθμό, θα καταβληθεί η επόμενη δόση του 25%. Όταν η εγκατάσταση είναι έτοιμη για λειτουργία, θα πρέπει να πληρωθεί το υπόλοιπο 25%. Μπορώ να αποκτήσω μίσθωση με διάρκεια άνω των 20 ετών; Ναι. Οι Ελληνικοί νόμοι επιτρέπουν μισθώσεις έως 60 έτη. Οι πρώτες 250 μονάδες που θα πωληθούν από αυτήν την προσφορά θα περιλαμβάνουν την επιλογή αίτησης για παράταση της μίσθωσης έως 60 χρόνια. Η παράταση θα ισχύει για περιόδους παράτασης των 10 ετών με σχετική αύξηση της τιμής $2.000 ανά υπνοδωμάτιο. Έτσι, για μια μίσθωση των 30 ετών, η συνολική τιμή θα είναι $10.000 για μια σουίτα με ένα υπνοδωμάτιο και $24.000 για σουίτα με δύο υπνοδωμάτια. Μπορούμε να κάνουμε κράτηση για την εβδομάδα των γιορτών των Χριστουγέννων ή του Πάσχα; Ναι. Μπορείτε να κάνετε κράτηση για οποιαδήποτε χρονική περίοδο θέλετε, με την προϋπόθεση ότι η σουίτα είναι διαθέσιμη και δεν έχει κρατηθεί ήδη. BEDROOM BEDROOM 15.16 m² 20.27 m² Κι αν κάνετε πιο ευνοϊκές προσφορές στο μέλλον; Αυτή η τιμή είναι σχεδιασμένη για να καλύπτει τα κόστη και κατά πάσα πιθανότητα δεν θα πραγματοποιηθεί οποιαδήποτε καλύτερη προσφορά στο μέλλον. Ωστόσο, εάν συμβεί αυτό, τότε θα παραταθεί η χρονική διάρκεια των μισθώσεων αυτής της προσφοράς χωρίς πρόσθετες χρεώσεις, ώστε να έχουν το ίδιο κόστος με τις νέες μισθώσεις. Τι θα συμβεί στο τέλος της σύμβασης μίσθωσης; Στο τέλος των περιόδου των 20 ετών και οποιασδήποτε παράτασής της, η μίσθωση θα λήξει και η μονάδα θα επιστρέψει στην PAA-MCV ή στην ΠΕΑ εάν δεν υπάρχουν άλλοι μέτοχοι. Τότε η PAA-MCV θα αποφασίσει για τους όρους της εκχώρησης παράτασης ή νέας σύμβασης μίσθωσης. Οι κάτοχοι των συμβάσεων που λήγουν θα έχουν την πρώτη επιλογή σε οποιεσδήποτε νέες συμβάσεις μίσθωσης και θα λάβουν επίσης τις πλέον ευνοϊκές τιμές. ΟΛΕΣ ΟΙ ΚΡΑΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΘΑ ΓΙΝΟΝΤΑΙ ΒΑΣΕΙ ΣΕΙΡΑΣ ΣΥΜΜΕΤΟΧΗΣ (FIRST COME - FIRST SERVED)!! Οι κρατήσεις βάσει της μίσθωσης θα είναι αριθμημένες σύμφωνα με την ημερομηνία που θα ληφθεί η προκαταβολή. Παρακαλούμε ταχυδρομήστε το επισυναπτόμενο απόκομμα, συμπεριλαμβάνοντας τις πληροφορίες που χρειαζόμαστε για να σας στείλουμε το πακέτο, ή στείλτε με email την αίτησή σας στη διεύθυνση [email protected] με κοινοποίηση στη διεύθυνση [email protected] Με αδελφικούς χαιρετισμούς, Σταύρος Σημαντήρης Πρόεδρος της PAA-MVI JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 17 Thoughts Σκέψεις Through the eyes of a granddaughter… By: Antonia Kay Perakis, Grade 3 My grandfather is Speros George Perakis (I call him “παππού” which means grandfather in Greek). He was born in 1918, on an island called Crete, in Greece. He grew up in a small village called “Lungatha”. My grandfather’s mother died giving birth to him. He grew up on a farm with his father and three brothers and one sister. He stopped going to school in the fifth grade to help support his family. On the farm he picked the olives from the olive trees, and used a machine to squeeze the oil out of the olives. He put the oil in jars and sold them at stores. He did this during the months of September thru February. The other months he took care of the animals on their farm. He worked on the farm until he was twenty-two years old. In October 1940, Greece was attacked by Italy and he went to war For his country. He fought in World War II for three years. During the war, Germany invaded the island Crete and he fought the Germans for another year. The Germans killed many people and destroyed the Greek farmlands, killed the animals and burned the olive trees. After World War II was over the United States allowed the Greeks to come to America. In 1948, at the age of thirty, he decided to come to America because he was hungry and every thing on his farm was destroyed. With little money in his pocket and some clothes in a bag he boarded the boat to America. He went to live with his sister and her husband in Springfield, Massachusetts. He didn’t speak English, so he worked at a factory. He worked there for five years and then was able to get his visa to become an American citizen. He worked a couple more years at the factory until he saved enough money to go back to Greece to find a wife. He went back in 1958 where he met and married my grandmother. Back then, men went back to their home countries to get married. A year later, he went back to America with my grandmother to begin their lives together. They had three children, one of them being my dad. My παππού worked two jobs to support his family. He painted houses during the day and worked in a factory at night until he retired at the age of sixty-five. Today, my παππού is ninety-two years old and is in good health and has a great memory. He speaks a little English and tells me stories about his childhood in Greece. I am very proud of him and everything he has accomplished in his life. He fought in a war, he came to America by himself where he didn’t speak the language and worked very hard to support his family and provide them with a better life. I am blessed to call him my παππού. ________________________________________________ The above essay was submitted for a third grade writing contest. Spero Perakis and his son, Stephen, are members of the Minos-Crete club of Springfield, MA. Antonia Perakis, Spero’s wife, Ruby Perakis, his daughter; and Mary Perakis, his daughter-in-law and club secretary, are all members of “Proodos.” Antonia is the daughter of Stephen and Mary. 18 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 March 12, 2011. Matheny Visit. The Philanthropic Committee of the Cretans’ Fraternity “The White Mountains”, organized two visits to the Matheny Hospital and Education Center. Matheny Medical and Educational Center is a special hospital and educational facility for children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities April 17, 2011. Palm Sunday Philanthropic and Fundraising Luncheon at “White Mountains” chapter New Jersey JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 23 Washington D.C. Board Meeting held at the Greek Embassy, May 14, 2011. RESOLUTIONS PASSED DURING THE MAY 13TH TELECONFERENCE 1. RESOLVED: That The PAA Board recommend to the General Assembly of the 42nd National PAA Convention to loan $10,000 to the Omonoia Chapter until December 31, 2011 with 5% interest. RESOLUTIONS PASSED AT THE WASHINGTON, D.C. MAY 16TH NATIONAL BOARD MEETING 1. RESOLVED: To Approve the appointment of a committee consisting of Dr. James Saklas, James Maropoulakis Denney and Nickos Kastrinakis, to meet with representatives of the Omonoia Chapter of New York for the purpose of advising, consulting, requesting/gathering information and assisting the chapter in any way possible to resolve it’s current financial difficulties. 2. RESOLVED: To rescind the previous resolution made at the May 13th Teleconference Board meeting whereby the PAA Board resolved to recommend to the General Assembly of the 42nd National PAA Convention to loan $10,000 to the Omonoia Chapter until December 31, 2011 with 5% interest. 3. RESOLVED: To accept the Vianos Chapter of Columbus, Ohio into the PAA in District III. 4. RESOLVED: To include the Archives Chair and/or Committee in any discussion regarding the Archives at the Maliotis Cultural Center. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 24 Obituary Εις Μνήμη In Memory of Pearl Delis On March 2nd of this year, the PAA lost one of its classiest first ladies. Beloved sister Pearl (Paraskevi) Pallios Delis fell asleep in the Lord with her loving family at her bedside. Pearl’s beloved husband was former national PAA president Nicholas Delis. Pearl was the daughter of Stelios and Athena Pallios. She was the oldest Pallios sibling, and sister to another former PAA national president, Gus S. Pallios also of blessed memory. Paraskevi was born in Helper (Carbon County), Utah in July 1917. Stelios and Athena, with all seven children on board, made the trek in a sorely cramped Model A Ford to Ceres, California, in 1935, seeking a better life. Inasmuch as the family was poor, the loving familial ties and dedication to God the family held nurtured Paraskevi and formed unbreakable bonds. This foundation of family and worship became the core of her essence for her own family in the future. Pearl was indeed a product of the depression, and therefore knew hard work and perseverance. Growing up in Modesto, she was able to find work in the local canneries, canning peaches and apricots and also stringing figs. Later, Pearl attended and graduated from Modesto Junior College and also attended Hills Business College in Berkeley, California. Pearl was one of the founding members of Modesto’s first Cretan youth club “Apogoni Tou Minos.” She held the position of the first secretary of the group. As she was sending out correspondence, it was her beautiful penmanship Nick Delis first noticed. He needed to meet the woman who wrote so beautifully. Nick was then the president of “Epimenides” chapter of San Francisco. It was his responsibility to swear in the newly elected officers of the local fledging organization. After meeting Pearl, Nick was overcome with emotion and love. In short time, he asked for Pearl’s hand in marriage; and was firmly accepted by Pearl’s parents. Nick and Pearl were married on September 4, 1938. In 1940 Pearl was one of the charter members in the founding of the “Ariadne” chapter of San Francisco. As we all know, behind every great man is a great woman. No truer words could be said in this case. Pearl, indeed, was a gem. She aided Nick in all his ventures. She toiled with him as they developed their farming business. Pearl was by his side at every step of his presidency. She was his right-hand. Pearl was Nick’s guiding light until his passing on September 9, 1989. Nick and Pearl were blessed with two wonderful children, Karen and Nicholas II. They instilled in their children the same values they were reared with – love and dedication to the family and caring for their fellow man, all while giving glory to God for the graces He bestowed upon them. Paraskevi was a classy lady until her death. She brought out the best in people, always with a kind word and always with a big, warm, beautiful smile. Her home was always open for family and guests. She was the “hostess with the mostest.” At 93, old age made Pearl physically fragile. However, it did nothing to diminish her mind. She was still as sharp as a tack until God took her last breath. She understood not only what transpired ages ago, but also with the full faculties of present life--people, places, politics, etc. She was a joy to visit. Our precious Greek Orthodox faith teaches us that Paraskevi is now in a place with no pain, no sorrow, and no suffering. She is reunited with her beloved husband, Nick, and five of her siblings--Gus, Penny (Simvoulakis), Lovey (Zolintakis), John, and Georgia (Grillos) who preceded her. Regardless of the fact she lived a long and beautiful life, Paraskevi still will be sorely missed by her family and by all who knew her. To her brother George (Sophie), her children Karen (Jim) Vandarakis, and Nicholas II (Stephanie),along with their respective spouses, to all her grandchildren and great grandchildren and the entire Pallios and Delis families, we express our silipitiria on the physical loss of Pearl. She is and always will be a legend who will never be forgotten. Eternal be her memory; Αιωνία η μνήμη αυτής. In Memory of Pearl Delis With our deepest sympathies to the Delis and Pallios families on the passing of Mrs. Pearl Delis, a true lady of class, character and love, who enriched our lives just knowing and visiting with us. Emanuel and Callie Elliott Past President P.A.A. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 25 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ Andalucia-Crete By Vagellio Psarakis The Pancretan Association of America made the most of the saying “music brings people together,” when it brought over a spectacular concert event that bridged the cultures of Andalucia, Spain, and Crete, Greece through music and dance. All of the performers were brilliant in their craft, and they flawlessly complimented each other. Not many would believe that Spanish music from Andalucia and Greek music from Crete can be combined to create a show that seamlessly intertwines elements from each culture. It was a perfect example of the interconnectedness of human kind. Though we may separate ourselves by ethnicity, it is important to note that 26 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 sometimes certain fundamentals that make a culture great in one’s eyes, can also be apparent in another. An open mind is a valuable possession because it can harbor amazing experiences. Everyone who attended “AndaluciaCrete” had an open mind that allowed them the pleasure of seeing two seemingly musically different cultures merge to create an exceptional, surprising, and passion-filled show. The opening number featured the two vocalists singing a capella; the Cretan sang a passionate “rizitiko” after the Spaniard sang a song in Spanish with similar musical qualities. Then with no instrumental background, the Cretan dancers came out and stomped their feet to “pentozali”, as the Flamenco dancer stomped with the beat to his own dance. The dancers from both countries shook hands. Soon after that, the traditional instruments from Andalucia and Crete created a prevailing melody that could captivate any audience. The Cretan lira so sweetly joined forces with the Spanish classical guitar as the flamenco dancers moved across the stage with power and eloquence. Then, with an easy transition, the lira began playing “sirto”, as the Spanish guitar coincided with the beat of the Cretan “laouto,” and the Cretan dancers appeared on stage dancing with grace and elegant pride. Both cultures were represented at the same time in perfect symphony, as the Spaniards danced flamenco and the Greeks danced “sirto” to the same music. The costumes that each dancer wore were authentic and beautifully crafted. For the first time, the female Cretan dancer presented a one of a kind traditional dress that was fit for a royal princess. The closing number was a passionate and energy-filled “malevisiotiko” in which again the dancers from both countries danced at the same time. Everybody’s heart was beating faster as they watched these professionals move across the stage in perfect harmony that one would not believe unless their own eyes saw the show. By the end of the concert, the audience was so enthusiastic about the performances that it showed its gratitude with a standing ovation that was followed by an encore. All the musicians and dancers gave their performance their absolute all. Hopefully one day the Pancretan Association of America will be able to bring this concert back to the USA so it can be shared with more people in more cities across the country. It truly is a one of a kind event that is not to be missed. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 27 Special Report Ρεπορτάζ The Nikos Kazantzakis Museum Nikos Kazantzakis and his work are inextricably bound up with Crete. The island gave birth to him, and he repaid the debt by making Crete a symbol of steely courage and pride. Crete also paid him one of the greatest honors deprived to many of his counterparts – a museum dedicated to his name, on his native soil, where “his ancestors were nurtured”. This was not provided by the state, as was its due, but by the insistence and indomitable tenacity of his compatriot, set designer Yiorgos Anemoyiannis. “I don’t envy Kazantzakis for finding a place to nestle,” an old Cretan once said, “I envy Anemoyiannis, for knowing how to build nests in high up branches!” And so it was that in Varvari (now Myrtia), Anemoyiannis’s efforts bore fruit, and the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum became fact in 1983. A space was created to act as an eloquent record of the author’s life and reflections. The initial core of the collections came into being through the special care of Yiorgos Anemoyiannis, together with the assistance of Helen Kazantzakis and large numbers of private individuals who believed in Anemoyiannis’s endeavor. In this way manuscripts and letters by Kazantzakis, personal effects and keepsakes from his travels, rare audiovisual material, and artworks inspired by his literary world, all found their own place in the museum. It was inaugurated on 27th July 1983 by Melina Mercouri, Culture Minister at the time, in the presence of Helen Kazantzakis. Also present were outstanding contributors to cultural life such as Odysseas Elytis and Antonis Samarakis, 28 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Το Μουσείο Νίκος Καζαντζάκης Απόλυτα δεμένος είναι ο Καζαντζάκης και το έργο του με την Κρήτη. Η Κρήτη τον γέννησε, και αυτός της το ανταπέδωσε, κάνοντάς τη σύμβολο λεβεντιάς και περηφάνιας. Η Κρήτη τού απέδωσε και μια από τις μεγαλύτερες τιμές, που στερούνται πολλοί ομόλογοί του∙ ένα Μουσείο αφιερωμένο σε αυτόν, στην πατρώα γη, εκεί που «τράφηκαν οι πρόγονοί του». Όχι από την Πολιτεία, ως όφειλε, μα από την επιμονή και το ακατάβλητο πείσμα του συντοπίτη του, σκηνογράφου Γιώργου Ανεμογιάννη. «Εγώ δε ζηλεύω τον Καζαντζάκη που βρήκε και κούρνιασε», είπε ένας γερο-Κρητικός, «εγώ ζηλεύω τον Ανεμογιάννη που κατέχει να χτίζει στ’ αψηλά κλαδιά φωλιές!» Εκεί, λοιπόν, στους Βαρβάρους (σήμερα Μυρτιά), απέδωσε καρπούς η προσπάθεια του Ανεμογιάννη και το Μουσείο Νίκου Καζαντζάκη έγινε γεγονός το 1983. Δημιουργήθηκε ένας χώρος, όπου με εύγλωττο τρόπο αποτυπώθηκε ο βίος και οι στοχασμοί του συγγραφέα. Ο πρώτος πυρήνας των συλλογών δημιουργήθηκε με την ιδιαίτερη φροντίδα του Γιώργου Ανεμογιάννη, αλλά και τη βοήθεια της Ελένης Ν. Καζαντζάκη και πλήθους ιδιωτών που πίστεψαν στην προσπάθεια του Ανεμογιάννη. Έτσι στο Μουσείο βρήκαν τη θέση τους χειρόγραφα του Καζαντζάκη και επιστολές, ημερολόγια και φωτογραφίες, αντικείμενα και ενθύμια των ταξιδιών του, μακέτες σκηνικών και κοστούμια από παραστάσεις των έργων του, σπάνιο οπτικοακουστικό υλικό, καθώς και έργα τέχνης εμπνευσμένα από τον λογοτεχνικό του κόσμο. as well as writers and artists from all four corners of the globe. The Museum set out on an important journey, its sole aim being to keep the author’s memory alive and promote his work. 2009 marked a second milestone in the Museum’s history. It was renovated from the ground up, to feature a new aesthetic approach and outlook, more recent Kazantzakis-related acquisitions and lesserhighlighted aspects of Nikos Kazantzakis’ life and work. The revamped museum bears the hallmark of talent and professionalism of its new creators; architects George Psomadakis and Maria Marinou, author and graphic designer Dimitris Kalokyris and literary scholar Litsa Hatzopoulou, as well as the affection and dedication of the museum staff, with unfailing respect for the author’s memory. Along with the building, new museum activities have also been inaugurated; a digital and physical library, educational programs, e-publications and print editions. At this new beginning, the museum aims to contribute even further to preserving and promoting the Cretan author’s work. Immediate plans include expanding activities beyond Greek borders. At present, it already participates in European projects to share experience and know-how with other museums abroad. In those terms the museum is planning to organize activities with Greeks abroad, so as to further expatriates’ interest in contemporary Greece and its literature through the viewpoint and work of Nikos Kazantzakis. Το εγκαινίασε στις 27 Ιουνίου 1983 η Μελίνα Μερκούρη, τότε Υπουργός Πολιτισμού, παρουσία της Ελένης Ν. Καζαντζάκη και βρέθηκαν εκεί δημιουργοί μεγάλου πνευματικού μεγέθους, όπως ο Οδυσσέας Ελύτης και ο Αντώνης Σαμαράκης, κι ακόμη άνθρωποι του λόγου και της τέχνης από κάθε γωνιά της γης. Το Μουσείο ξεκίνησε μια σπουδαία διαδρομή με μοναδικό σκοπό τη διατήρηση της μνήμης του συγγραφέα και την προώθηση του έργου του. Το 2009, αποτέλεσε τον δεύτερο σταθμό στην ιστορία του Μουσείου. Ανακαινίστηκε εκ βάθρων, παρουσιάζοντας, με μια νέα αισθητική και αντίληψη, νεότερα «καζαντζακικά» αποκτήματα και λιγότερο φωτισμένες πτυχές της ζωής και του έργου του Νίκου Καζαντζάκη. Το αναμορφωμένο Μουσείο σφραγίστηκε από το ταλέντο και τον επαγγελματισμό των νέων δημιουργών: των αρχιτεκτόνων Γιώργου Ψωμαδάκη και Μαρίας Μαρίνου, του συγγραφέα και γραφίστα Δημήτρη Καλοκύρη, της Δρος φιλολογίας Λίτσας Χατζοπούλου, αλλά και από την αγάπη και το μεράκι των ανθρώπων του Μουσείου, με σεβασμό πάντα στη μνήμη του συγγραφέα. Μαζί με το κτήριο εγκαινιάστηκαν και νέες δραστηριότητες του Μουσείου: η λειτουργία ψηφιακής και φυσικής Βιβλιοθήκης, τα εκπαιδευτικά προγράμματα, οι ηλεκτρονικές και έντυπες εκδόσεις. Σε αυτό το νέο του ξεκίνημα, το Μουσείο επιδιώκει να συμβάλει ακόμα περισσότερο στη διατήρηση και διάδοση του έργου του κρητικού συγγραφέα. Μέσα στα άμεσα σχέδιά του είναι να διευρύνει τις δράσεις του και εκτός συνόρων. Σήμερα ήδη συμμετέχει σε ευρωπαϊκά προγράμματα ανταλλαγής εμπειριών και τεχνογνωσίας με άλλα Μουσεία του εξωτερικού. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό το Μουσείο σχεδιάζει και την υλοποίηση κάποιων δράσεων σε συνεργασία με τους έλληνες του εξωτερικού, τονώνοντας έτσι το ενδιαφέρον της ομογένειας για τη νεότερη Ελλάδα και τη λογοτεχνία της μέσα από τη ματιά και το έργο του Νίκου Καζαντζάκη. JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 29 Profile Προφίλ Cretan American Association District VII Honoring Maria Kastrenakes The Cretan American Association of Miami proudly elects Mrs. Maria Kastrenakes to be honored and recognized by the PAA District VII for her contributions to our silogo, to the PAA and to the continuity of Cretan customs, culture and history. Mrs. Kastrenakes is one of our most revered silogo members and continues to be a tremendous driving force not only in our organization but in her community overall. Born in Anopoli, Sfakion, Chania, Crete, Mrs. Kastrenakes’ passion to perpetuate the customs, culture and history of Crete began with her personal experience on the island as a young girl. She was the fourth child of ten children born to Haritos and Anastasia Protopapadakis at a time when Crete was afflicted with war and was still recovering from foreign occupation. She recalls that in spite of these difficulties, life in her village was peaceful and pleasant as the years passed. As she entered her teen years, she quickly realized that the security she experienced growing up was a result of the pride and determination, which prevailed throughout the island in the face of adversity. Mrs. Kastrenakes understood very early on that this is the way of the Cretan people. In 1960 Mr. Dimitrios Kastrenakes brought his new bride to America and within two weeks of their arrival, introduced her to his friends from the Cretan American Association of Miami. It was such a joy for the young Mrs. Kastrenakes to learn that the Cretan people she encountered in the United States exhibited the same qualities as they did back home. This inspired her greatly to engage in the silogo and the church where she felt she could contribute whatever she could to help preserve the Greek Orthodox faith, the Greek language and the Cretan ways in this new country. Although the silogo in Miami was very new at that time, it was also filled with a great deal of experience. Founded in 1957 by her husband and a few of his fellow Cretans, the Miami Chapter was made up of retirees who relocated to Florida from all over the country. Each member had served in a silogo in other states to include New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio to name a few. The silogo president at the time was Mr. Kastrenakes’ son, George. He and Mrs. Kastrenakes were the youngest members of the silogo for many years and they benefitted greatly from the wealth of knowledge and experience of the older members. From day one, Mrs. Kastrenakes served with the ladies in charge of the silogo hospitality and welfare. She recalls fondly how Mrs. Frangakis and Mrs. Kartsonakis taught her silogo protocols and the by-laws; took her along on all welfare calls and inspired her to take on more leadership roles in the community. Fifty-one years later and Mrs. Kastrenakes continues to 30 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 serve as the hospitality and welfare chair and she’s still going strong! If you miss a meeting, be certain Kyria Maria will be calling to make sure you are well. If there is an engagement, wedding, birth or sadly, a death, we all know that Mrs. Kastrenakes will be there for us and we will be touched by the silogo through her. In the early years of the silogo, Mrs. Kastrenakes and the members met every last Thursday of the month to discuss silogo business and most importantly they met for fellowship. She rarely ever missed a meeting in her 51 years with the silogo and continues to attend regularly always ready to offer assistance wherever she can. In addition to her work as the hospitality and welfare chair, Mrs. Kastrenakes took on the role as a very active board member and served within this capacity for nearly 45 years. She held the office of Vice President for nearly every presidential term. In those years of office, Mrs. Kastrenakes chaired many projects, worked at every function and hosted PAA representatives and their programs. Although every president and board did great work, Mrs. Profile Προφίλ Kastrenakes highlighted a few projects she was proud to be a part of during her tenure as Vice President. One was during the presidency of Mr. Theodore Karachalias, Sr. where he along with Mrs. Irene Moforis and Mrs. Kastrenakes gathered over $11,000.00 in donations for a geriatric center in Chania. Another was during the presidency of Mr. Takis Stylianoudakis, where he, his daughter Elenie and Mrs. Kastrenakes collected donations that fully assisted a gentleman newly arrived from Crete and in dire need of medical aid. There was a huge effort lead by then president, Dimitrios Halivelakis where Mrs. Kastrenakes along with the board assisted Mr. Halivelakis spearhead on behalf of the PAA, a project that funded the creation and placement of a monument in Akrotiri, Crete of Spiro Kagiale who honors the cour- Miami silogo members and boardmembers gathered for a photo following the memorial service for Maxi tis Kritis (circ. 1980s). Standing (L to R): George Nikitakis, Harry Skoundridakis, Panagiotis Moforis, Michael Pitsoulakis, Theodori Karachalias, age and heroism of Cretan fighters during John Cheretis, Peter Stylianoudakis, John Petrakis, Akis Saridakis, John Pantelakis Seated (L to R), Maria Kastrenakes - Vice the revolutions and struggles for freedom. President, Lela Goumenis , Helen Frangakis Mrs. Kastrenakes is proud to have been a part of these events and honored to have tions she raised them with. The other is her association and served with such great leaders. contact with people through her work in the silogo and her Around 2003, Mrs. Kastrenakes stepped down from the work as hospitality and welfare chair. She values the friendboard in support of the silogo’s decision to open their arms ship and support of every president she had the honor to to the next generation of leaders. She was overjoyed to see work with and attributes the success of the silogo to the unithe children of her friends, raised in this country, upholding fied effort and dedication of every board she served on and the same traditions and values passed on to them by their to the people of the silogo at large. She proclaims her strong parents take their place on the silogo board. To her delight, conviction that the silogo is one family and our children will also on this new board were her daughters, Anastasia Kascontinue this tradition. trenakes-Merkel and Demitra Kastrenakes- Protopapadakis. Her advice to this next generation is to perpetuate the Mrs. Kastrenakes’ dedication extends beyond the Kritiko values and customs of our culture and faith. She is very Silogo to all Greek Orthodox Church communities throughproud to see the young people apply their education and out South Florida, and to her friends and most importantly talents toward this goal and she is confident that they will to her family. You will find her supporting all the churches be successful. They only need to remember the great honor either in worship or baking and volunteering for different bestowed upon them by virtue of their birth and association church events. You hear many couples comment how she as a generation of Cretan Americans. She also adds with a prepared her delicious Kserotygana for their wedding or grin, “I only ask that we continue to speak Greek as much as engagement and how she is always offering to help a family possible at our meetings, some English is fine too, but I very in their time of celebration as well as in their time of need. much hope the Greek continues!” In 1970, Mrs. Kastrenakes was widowed with the passMrs. Kastrenakes maintains that she will continue to serve ing of her beloved husband of ten years. She was left on as a member of the silogo and as the Welfare and Hospitalher own to raise their two daughters then nine and six. ity Chair as long as God gives her strength and as long as the She found strength, support and fellowship through her silogo offers her this honor. As for those of us who know her, faith and her work in the community and the silogo and we can only say that we are the ones who are honored to proudly raised her daughters in this environment. In those have Mrs. Kastrenakes as a part of our silogo family and most years she welcomed to her home from Crete, her brother, importantly as one of our silogo mentors and valued resource George Protopapadakis, her cousin Stelios Vailakis, nephew George Zouridakis and sisters, Stella Georgedakis and Katina for silogo protocol, by-laws and history. She holds the history Protopapadakis. Each of them, to include many other family and purpose of our silogo within her memories and with that, strives to inspire all of us to continue with this legacy just as members throughout the country, became involved in the she was once inspired many years ago. As many continue to Kritiko Silogo and PAA. attest on her behalf, Mrs. Kastrenakes is a lady of extreme One of her greatest accomplishments is her family ties, integrity, loyalty and is absolutely genuine. We look forward to her two daughters and six grandchildren whom continue to many more years of her service and friendship. serve the community and silogo as they maintain the tradiJUNE 2011 | KPHTH 31 ChapterProfile ΠροφίλΣυλλόγου CRETANS OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA “KNOSSOS” By John Pratsinakis -President Our Cretan society is only 22 years old. Established in 1989 with a vision to celebrate our Cretan culture, instill pride in our younger generation, and to reinforce higher education through scholarships. The first chapter meeting was held at the home of Father Emmanuel and Presvytera Maria Pratsinakis. The President and the Lieutenant Governor of the PAA at that time, George Vardakis and Manolis Velivasakis attended this important meeting. A decision was reached to form our chapter and the first board of directors installed, including President John Blazakis, Vice Presidents Lazaros Rassoulis and Nick Fanourgakis, Secretary Mary O’Donnel, Treasurer Steve Troullos and board members George Angelakis, Manny Coronis and George Zorbalas. The organization has flourished over the years with the following individuals having served as President: John Blazakis, Lazaros Rassoulis, George Angelakis, Demetrios Spanoudakis, Manolis Petrogiannis, Katerina 32 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Verganelakis, Stavros Antonakakis, and John Pratsinakis. Much like other chapters, our annual functions are headlined by our dinner dance. From our first dinner dance held in 1989, which was attended by over 700 people, our chapter established a tradition with high standards. This resulted in a reputation for high quality of food, service and entertainment. This included performances by well know and talented Cretan entertainers, Laika entertainers, and Cretan dancers. As a result of this foundation, this event has become a prominent affair in the area and continues to be attended by large audiences. Our chapter represents the tristate area including southern New Jersey, southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware. Dubbed the Delaware Valley, as the Delaware river runs through this area, our organization’s name was selected, the Cretans of Delaware Valley “KNOSSOS” Chapter and centrally located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, a suburb just a few miles east of Philadelphia. Our KNOSSOS chapter has several other annual traditions which are staples of our organization. We start off the year with a “vasilopita” cutting to usher in a new year. This celebration is concurrent to the first annual meeting, which sets the agenda for the entire year. In the spring, we celebrate with all Philadelphia area Hellenes by marching in the Philadelphia Greek Independence Day Parade. At the start of summer, we have our picnic, which gets everyone together just before vacation season. We end the year and celebrate the holiday season with a youth Christmas dinner celebration. In 1995, we formed our youth chapter, “TALOS”, encouraging our youth to participate in events. Our dance group was formed and flourished under the artistic direction of Roula Gianneas Vlazakis for many years. In 2008, Regina Petinos committed her talents to teach our youth for years to come. The dance group has performed every year at our dinner dances, at the ChapterProfile ΠροφίλΣυλλόγου Greek Independence Day celebration in Philadelphia, as well as at various affairs in different states. In 1997, under the leadership of Manny Coronis, our chapter established a youth scholarship program providing scholarships every year to our Cretan youth. In addition to our scholarship program, two memorial funds have been established in the name of Steven Troullos and John Blazakis, two of our deceased founders. In recent years, our chapter has celebrated several special events. On February 14, 2009, the chapter paid tribute to Lazaros Rassoulis by appointing him “Honorary President”. This well deserved chapter recognition was a result of decades of dedication. His leadership has set the high standards under which the chapter operates today. Lazaros has always been supported by his lovely wife, Georgia Rassoulis and their daughter Maria. This tribute was bestowed during our annual dinner dance at the St. Thomas Community Center, Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Left to Right: In November 2009, under the presidency of Stavros Antonakakis, the chapter celebrated its 20th Anniversary and honored the founders of the organization. The evening’s profits were donated to the American Cancer Society and the PAA Philanthropic Foundation for the commission of a bronze bust of the late Drexel President and beloved chapter member, Dr. Constantine Papadakis. The following summer of 2010, the Cretans dedicated the public square in the village of Meskla to Dr. Papadakis. At this ceremony, the PAA unveiled the bronze bust created by Philadelphia area sculptor and fellow Cretan Zenos Frudakis. KNOSSOS has also had special events with Drexel University’s Greek Studies Program including a memorial concert in honor of Dr. Papadakis featuring pianist with the same name and a lecture on the Mediterranean Diet. Today our chapter is a proud reflection of its past as the children of the original founders now serve on the board. The chapter currently has 13 board members and 120 members and welcomes continued growth with inclu- Current Officers Our current officers are: President John Pratsinakis; Executive Vice-President Anastasia Tsinetakes; Vice President South Jersey Adam Angelakis; Vice President Philadelphia George Venianakis; Treasurer George Chronakis; Corresponding Secretary Katerina Liviakis; Recording Secretary Caterina Verganelakis; Artistic Director Regina Petinos; Information Technology Michael Venianakis; Youth President Joseph Antonakakis; Youth Advisor Sophia Kanetos; Cultural Chair Nick Angelakis; Cultural Chair Tony Liviakis sive behaviors and collaboration with other Hellenic American organizations. The board is very active and maintains the traditions of the past, while adjusting to the needs of its members today. We have increased our visibility by creating a presence in cyberspace using our FACEBOOK and YouTube. What a wonderful avenue to communicate our cause and record our history Facebook: Cretans of Greater Philadelphia” Youtube: Talos Cretan Youth DV Our chapter’s future is bright. With the next generation starting to take ownership, there is no doubt that we are here to stay. That said, this will not be easy, but we need to make it easy. While there are many avenues tugging at our time schedule, Technology has made it easier than ever to stay in touch, work together, stay relevant, and continue to celebrate our 5000 years of history, tradition and culture. I would like to thank all our chapter members, those who have served on our chapter board of directors, our advisory board, our sponsors year after year, and the PAA for giving us the opportunity to tell our story. With Pride in our Cretan Heritage, John Pratsinakis - President JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 33 Donations May 16, 2011 - June 30, 2011 DONORS Stamus Cocole Emmanuel Elliott Epimenides Chapter AMOUNT COMMENTS TOTAL Scholarship Memorial Fund In Memory of Pearl Delis Scholarship Memorial Fund In Memory of Pearl Delis Scholarship Memorial Fund In Memory of Pearl Delis Calendar of Events JULY 2011 07/04/2011 $50.00 $200.00 $300.00 $550.00 North Royalton, OH “George Varouh” Club 4th of July Picnic Rae Elliot 330-425-7602 AUGUST 2011 08/16/2011 Detroit, MI Cretan Ladies Detroit Tigers Game Fundraiser Erasmia Novotny 248-807-0352 OCTOBER 2011 10/22/2011 Astoria, NY “OMONOIA” of NY Annual Dinner Dance Panagiotis Rodamis 917-299-7525 NOVEMBER 2011 11/05/2011 New Brunswick, NJ “White Mountains” Annual “Pilafi” Dance Panagiotis Psarakis 908-685-2148 11/12/2011 Astoria, NY “Pasiphae “70th Anniversary Dinner Dance Christina Diamantakis 516-767-2716 11/12/2011 Charlotte, NC “Psiloritis” of Carolina Dinner Dance Nikos Evgenitakis 704-442-2159 11/19/2011 Pittsburgh, PA “Arkadi-Maleme” Annual Dinner Dance Helene Semanderes 724-746-2878 JANUARY 2012 34 “Cretan Sisterhood” Annual Dinner Dance Koula Xenakis 347-312-3890 Πωλείται www.HellasFM.us online radio show Μοναδική Ευκαιρία. Οικόπεδο περίπου 1,700 τ.μ. στη περιοχή Καμισιανά Κισσάμου, 50 μέτρα από την θάλασσα. Τιμή 110,000 ευρώ Για περισσότερες πληροφορίες τηλεφωνήστε στο: (702) 375-0270 ή (702) 242-6811 Email: [email protected] The Garden of Iapetos because everything has 2 sides... has 2 sides... because everything For Sale GO ONLINE EVERY Tuesday 8pm-10pm Friday 2pm-4pm LIVELINE 718.707.3120 www.HellasFM.us only on www.HellasFM.us E.:[email protected] KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Unique Opportunity. Land of approximately 1.700 sq. m. in the region Kamisiana Kissamos 50 meters from the sea. Price 110.000 euros For more information call: (702) 375-0270 or (702) 242-6811 Email: [email protected] 02.03.2063 Brooklyn, NY 06.10.2056 The Garden of Iapetos 01/12/2012 chapternewsνέασυλλόγωνchapternewsνέασυλλόγων Astoria, New York Omonoia, Pasiphae, Labrys Η ΠΑΣΙΦΑΗ γιόρτασε την Πρωτομαγιά Την 1η Μαΐου μπήκε η άνοιξη για την Πασιφάη. Όμορφα λουλούδια που προσέφερε ο Πρόεδρος της Ὁμόνοιας» κ. Παναγιώτης Ροδάμης στόλισαν το Κρητικό Σπίτι στην Αστόρια για το Πρωτομαγιάτικο Γλέντι. Η Πρόεδρος Χριστίνα Διαμαντάκη μαζί με το Συμβούλιο ετοίμασαν ένα πολύ όμορφο μεσημέρι για να υποδεχτούν την άνοιξη. Μαζί μας ήταν ο 2ος Αντιπρόεδρος της Παγκρητικής κ. Νίκος Καστρινάκης και η Εκτελεστική Διευθύντρια των Γυναικείων Τμημάτων της Παγκρητικής κα. Μαρία Στρατουδάκη, Ο D.J. Ιάκωβος Σολανάκης μας διασκέδασε με την μουσική του. Επίσης χόρεψε και το μικρό χορευτικό της “ΟΜΟΝΟΙΑΣ”. Προσφέρθηκε ένα πολύ νόστιμο γεύμα, παραδοσιακό αρνί με πατάτες, που μας ετοίμασε Ο κ Νίκος Χαρτζουλάκης. Γευστικά Κρητικά καλιτσουνάκια και νόστιμα γλυκίσματα προσφέρθηκαν από τις γυναίκες της Πασιφάη. Ωραία καλάθια για το λαχνό μας επίσης ετοιμάσθηκαν από τις κυρίες του Συμβουλίου. Όλα τα έσοδα της ημέρας θα πάνε προς φιλανθρωπικούς σκοπούς. Όλοι περάσαμε πολύ ωραία και ευχαριστούμε όλους που παρευρεθήκαν. Εορτασμός Επετείου Μάχη της Κρήτης Την Κυριακή 22 Μαΐου εορτάστηκε στο Κρητικό Σπίτι η 70η επέτειος από την Μάχη της Κρήτης. Κύριος ομιλητής John, Anthony & Frank Fiotos We Proudly Support KPHTH Magazine. 0410..2058 KELLOGG’S DINER 518 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11211 T.: 718.782.4502 - F.: 718.782.0059 JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 35 chapternewsνέασυλλόγωνchapternewsνέασυλλόγων photo by: greeknewsonline.com ήταν ο Γραμματέας Περιφερειακού Συμβουλίου Κρήτης και πρώην Αντινομάρχης Χανίων κ. Κωνσταντίνος Γύπαρης. Την εκδήλωση τίμησαν με την παρουσία τους η Γενική πρόξενος της Ελλάδος κα. Άγη Μπαλτά, Η Γενική Πρόξενος της Κύπρου κα. Κούλα Σοφιανού, ο Προξενικός Στατιωτικός Ακόλουθος Συνταγματάρχης κ. Χρήστος Μεσαρετζίδης, ο Προξενικός Λιμενάρχης κ. Αργύρης Κεφάλας, ο Β’Αντιπρόεδρος της Παγκρητικής κ. Νίκος Καστρινάκης, η Εκτελεστική Διευθύντρια Γυναικείων τμημάτων κα Μαρία Στρατουδάκη, η γνωστή ηθοποιός κα Άννα Τσουκαλά, Πρόεδροι και αξιωματούχοι των Κρητικών Σωματείων της περιοχής και πλήθος κόσμου. Συγχαρητήρια Θερμά συγχαρητήρια στην Έρυκα Μανουσέλη κόρη του αγαπητού μέλους του Συλλόγου μας Μανούσου Μανουσέλη για την είσοδο της στο Πανεπιστήμιο Brown με ολική υποτροφία. Η Έρυκα ενώ έγινε δεκτή και από το Πανεπιστήμιο Harvard, τελικά την κέρδισε το τμήμα Διεθνών Σχἐσεων του Brown. Στην Έρυκα που μόλις αποφοίτησε με Διακρίσεις από το Hewitt Upper School ευχόμαστε να κάνει πραγματικότητα όλα τα όνειρα της. Στους γονείς ευχόμαστε να την δουν σύντομα και εις ανώτερα. Οι Πρόεδροι και τα Συμβούλια των Συλλόγων μας σας εύχονται Καλό Καλοκαίρι!!! Φώτης Φιωτοδημητράκης Αθηνά Μαραγκουδάκη Cleveland, Ohio George Varouh Cretan Club Condolences We are saddened to report the passing of a long-time member of our Cleveland Chapter, Ann (Nicolozakis) Sapou36 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 nakis, at the age of 80, of Columbus, Ohio. Ann and her late husband Michael were devoted members for many years. After having visited Crete, Michael Sapounakis passed away three years ago, having suffered a heart attack while at the airport in Athens awaiting their return to the United States. Ann was born in Fairpoint, Ohio and lived in Columbus, Ohio during her grownup years. She was the loving mother of Rose Ann Leisly and the precious grandmother of Anne (Muno) Driza. Before she died God blessed Ann with the birth of a great grandson, Anthony Driza. Three brothers and two sisters preceded Ann to eternal life. Five sisters survive, Goldie Gonakis and Helen Vitakis, both members of our Chapter and Judy of Chicago, Mary of Arkansas and Sophie. Ann’s funeral was sung at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Columbus with many friends and relatives in attendance. Memory eternal. Picnic Mark your calendars and join in the fun. Our annual traditional picnic will be held on Monday July 4th, 2011, from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm at St Sava’s Picnic Grove on Wallings Road in North Royalton. We invite all friends from near and far to attend this gala event. Future Plans For the first time in the history of the Cretan Association of Cleveland, plans are in the making to hold a Greek/Cretan Festival at our beautiful edifice, our very own Cretan Leshi. Chairperson Steve Nikolakis met with Cleveland council members and the Kamm’s Corners Association (Our Leshi is located in the Kamm’s Corners division of Cleveland.) and accomplished the task to allow this festival. West 168th Street, the location of our club, will be roped off and there will be plenty of scrumptious food and delicacies for all to enjoy and, of course, our traditional Greek dancing. The Hellenic Dance Group from St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church has been invited to perform. The dates are September 2nd and 3rd. Rae Elliott, KPHTH Correspondent Denver, Colorado Daughters of Crete Our congratulations to Alexandria Kounalis Melisaratos and Jerry Melisaratos on the birth of their son George Timothy Melisaratos. Born March 10, 2011. Alexandria is the daughter of Anthony and Sandy Kounalis of Denver, Colorado. Alexandria has been the Cretan Dance Instructor for the Youth of Denver for over 10 years. chapternewsνέασυλλόγωνchapternewsνέασυλλόγων Detroit, Michigan Cretan Ladies Society of Detroit “KPHTH” Congratulations to Amalia Stefanou, M.D., upon her completion of a 5 year surgical residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. She is off to Chicago, where she will continue with a one year fellowship. Then will return to the Detroit area to practice. Congratulations to Katherine Stefanou, who is completing her law degree from the Brooklyn Law School in New York. Amalia and Katherine are daughters of Joanne and Andreas Stefanou of Troy, Michigan. (Proud grandparents George Zacharias and the late Katherine [Demetriades].) Yiayia is watching over her three granddaughters which include sister, Kristina, who is a teacher at Novi High School in Michigan. Congratulations to all the Stefanou ladies and to their parents, Joanne and Andreas, for encouraging all their children to follow their dreams. Perastika to Joanne Stafanou who recently went to Crete and broke her leg walking the Farragi. Joanne’s mother, Katherine Papazacharioudakis, a former President of our chapter, walked the Farragi of Samaria in heels (thinking she was going for a “little volta” with some friends!). Two Farragi stories to pass down to the next generation! New Brunswick, New Jersey White Mountains Συγχαρητήρια σε όλους τους Απόφοιτους Ο σύλλογος μας είναι περήφανος για τις επιτυχίες σε κάθε επίπεδο όλων των μελών του. Είμαστε όμως ιδιαίτερα υπερήφανοι όταν βλέπομε τα παιδιά μας να προοδεύουν στην σχολική, πανεπιστημιακή και την επαγγελματική της καριέρα τους. Το διοικητικό συμβούλιο εκφράζοντας όλα τα μέλη, εύχεται σε όλα τα παιδιά, απόφοιτους Πανεπιστημίου/University, απόφοιτους High School/ Λυκείου όπως και σε όλα τα παιδιά που συνεχίζουν το σχολείο σε όλα τα επίπεδα, τα πιο θερμά συγχαρητήρια, καλή πρόοδο και καλή σταδιοδρομία στην ζωή τους! Εύχεται δε στους γονείς να τα δουν να γίνουν σπουδαίοι και σωστοί άνθρωποι στην ζωή τους. Η Φωτεινή Κάβαλος, αποφοίτησε από το Mt. Olive High School του New Jersey, με άριστη πρόοδο. Το ερχόμενο σχολικό έτος αρχίζει τις σπουδές της στο Montclair State University στο Μαθηματικό τμήμα. Η Φωτεινή είναι για αρκετά χρόνια έξοχη χορεύτρια του χορευτικού συγκροτήματος του συλλόγου μας ως επίσης είναι και μέλος του St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church GOYA group in Randolph, NJ. Στους γονείς της, κ. Γιώργο και κα. Άννα Κάβαλος όπως και σε όλη την οικογένειά τους, ευχόμαστε θερμά συγχαρητήρια και να την δουν να γίνει επιτυχημένος και σπουδαίος άνθρωπος στην ζωή της. Maria Exarchakis graduated from Monroe Township High School. Maria is very active in a variety of community affairs, but most importantly with The Smile Train, The Greek Children’s Fund, Autism Awareness, and Juvenile Diabetes organizations for which she was recognized with multiple awards. Maria was a member of the St. George Piscataway GOYA, a member of the Arkadi Cretan Youth, and a talented dancer with the White Mountain’s Cretan Dance Group, The Hellenic Dancers of NJ, and the St. George GOYA Dance Group. In the fall, Maria will be attending Towson University in Towson, Maryland where she’ll be pursuing a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology. To her parents, Mr. Dimitris and Mrs. Sophie Exarchakis, we extend our congratulations and we wish them to see her becoming a very successful person in her life. Ιωάννης Καντηλιεράκης, αποφοίτησε από το Edison High School του New Jersey, με άριστη πρόοδο. Το ερχόμενο σχολικό έτος αρχίζει τις σπουδές του στο Rutgers JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 37 chapternewsνέασυλλόγωνchapternewsνέασυλλόγων State University στο τμήμα του Biomedical Engineering. Ο Γιάννης είναι μέλος του συλλόγου νεολαίας «Αρκάδι», και για αρκετά χρόνια έξοχος χορευτής του χορευτικού συγκροτήματος του συλλόγου μας όπως και του St. George Piscataway GOYA χορευτικού. Στους γονείς του, κ. Σταμάτη και κα. Σούλα Καντηλιεράκη όπως και σε όλη την οικογένειά τους, ευχόμαστε θερμά συγχαρητήρια και να τον δουν να γίνει επιτυχημένος και σπουδαίος άνθρωπος στην ζωή του. είναι η κυρίες Nicolette and Alexandra Garthe για τις οποίες είμαστε σίγουροι ότι η Αναστασία θα έχει δύο σπουδαίους συντρόφους στη ζωή της. Ο πρόεδρος και το διοικητικό συμβούλιο του συλλόγου εύχονται ολόψυχα στην οικογένεια Καλογρίδη και την οικογένεια Αρχοντούλη η νεοφώτιστη Αναστασία να τους Ζήση και να την δουν να γίνει Σπουδαίος Άνθρωπος στη Ζωή της. Ευχόμαστε στις Νονές να είναι πάντα άξιες στη Ζωή τους.! Ο Μάρκος Καντηλιεράκης, αποφοίτησε από το J. P. Stevens High School του New Jersey. Ο Μάρκος είναι μέλος του συλλόγου νεολαίας «Αρκάδι», θαυμάσιος χορευτής του χορευτικού του συλλόγου μας ως επίσης και του χορευτικού του St. George Piscataway GOYA. Ο Μάρκος έχει το μεγάλο χάρισμα να έχει θαυμάσια φωνή την οποία και καλλιεργεί με μεγάλο πάθος για ένα λαμπρό καλλιτεχνικό μέλλον. Έχει πάρει πάρα πολλές διακρίσεις στον τομέα αυτό, με κορυφαία διάκριση το “NJ Governor’s Award” για το 2010 NJ AllState Chorus, που πείρε φέτος. Το ερχόμενο σχολικό έτος ο Μάρκος θα αρχίσει τις σπουδές του στο Westminster Choir College, Princeton NJ, as an Honors Student. Στους γονείς του, κ. Μάρκο και κα. Μαρία Καντηλιεράκη, όπως και σε όλη την οικογένειά τους, ευχόμαστε θερμά συγχαρητήρια και να τον δουν να γίνει επιτυχημένος και σπουδαίος άνθρωπος στην ζωή του. Ο σύλλογός μας στα πλαίσια ενημέρωσης των μελών του και γενικά της παροικίας, οργάνωσε στις 12 Απριλίου στο «Κρητικό Σπίτι», μια πολύ σημαντική ιατρική παρουσίαση που ήταν αφιερωμένη στην «Υγεία της Καρδιάς ». Η παρουσίαση/ομιλία έγινε στα Ελληνικά και Αγγλικά, από δύο αξιόλογους έλληνες γιατρούς, οι οποίοι έχουν διαπρέψει στον κλάδο της καρδιολογίας: ο Δρ. Ηλίας Ηλιάδης, MD, FACC, Associate Director Catch laboratories, Cooper University Hospital και ο Δρ. Απόστολος Βουντούρης, MD Cardiology/ Electrophysiology Assistant Professor, UMDNJ. Ήταν μια πάρα πολύ σπουδαία, επιτυχημένη και σπάνια παρουσίαση για την παροικία μας και γι’ αυτό είμαστε ευγνώμονες στους δύο γιατρούς που έκαναν το παν για να προσφέρουν με τον καλύτερο και κατανοητικό τρόπο τις πολύτιμες γνώσεις τους. Ο σύλλογος μας θα συνεχίσει την πρωτοβουλία ιατρικής ενημέρωσης των μελών/παροικίας με την συνεργασία καταξιωμένων ελλήνων γιατρών στην Αμερική. Βάφτιση Στις 12 Φεβρουαρίου, 2011, στο ναό του Αγίου Γεωργίου, Piscataway NJ, βαφτίστηκε ένα πανέμορφο κοριτσάκι, η Αναστασία Καλογρίδη. Μετά την τελετή του μυστηρίου έγινε ένα θαυμάσιο γλέντι στο πολυτελέστατο κέντρο Pines Manor όπου συγγενείς και φίλοι από Αμερική και Καναδά γιόρτασαν την είσοδο της Αναστασίας στην Ορθοδοξία. Η Αναστασία είναι η κόρη του κυρίου Γιάννη, τωρινού ταμεία του συλλόγου μας, και της κυρίας Κυριακής Καλογρίδη, και ο εγγονός του κυρίου Αντώνη και της κυρίας Άννας Καλογρίδη όπως και του κυρίου Δημήτρη και της κυρίας Αναστασίας Αρχοντούλη. Νονές της νεοφώτιστης Αναστασίας 38 KPHTH | JUNE 2011 Ιατρικό Σεμινάριο Philanthropic Initiatives The Philanthropic Committee of the Cretans’ Fraternity “The White Mountains”, organized two visits to the Matheny Hospital and Education Center. Matheny Medical and Educational Center is a special hospital and educational facility for children and adults with medically complex developmental disabilities. Despite their physical and mental challenges, the residents of Matheny are full of life and spirit, and to meet them is truly life-changing. During our April 10th visit, the dance group and youth members of our chapter offered musical entertainment, performed Cretan and other Greek dances and spent time with the residents. A check for $1000, raised by our children during the Christmas Kalanda season, was given to the director to assist with the needs of the center. Our very own Tatiana Manousakis, resident of Matheny and daughter of current PAA President Ted Manousakis, was very excited and proud about “Greek Day” at Matheny. Tatiana is a wonderful, vibrant and witty young lady who has captured all of our hearts. Many thanks to President Ted & Mrs. Rema Manousakis and their extended family for traveling up to N.J. to share in this very special visit and for matching our donation to the center. In continuing with the philanthropic mission, the com- chapternewsνέασυλλόγωνchapternewsνέασυλλόγων mittee also hosted several fundraisers during the months of March and April to raise funds for compatriots in need of medical financial support. The ladies of the White Mountains chapter baked & sold Lenten koulourakia, hosted a successful Loukoumades sale and raffle basket sale during the Sarakosti period. A Lenten Luncheon during Palm Sunday at the Kritiko Spiti was the final event hosted, with all food being donated by members and supporters. It was a wonderful family occasion that brought our “syllogo”and Greek community closer together in appreciation for all that we are blessed with. All proceeds were given to needy cancer patients. The month of April is now designated as Philanthropic fundraising month for our chapter. Παναγιώτης Ψαράκης San Francisco, California Epimenides/Ariadne On April 10, 2011, Epimenides/Ariadne participated in the annual Greek Independence Day Parade in San Francisco, representing the Cretans of Northern California. Many Hellenic groups led by his Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos and the president of the United Hellenic Societies ,Ted Loliotis, marched from 7Th and Market to the Civic Center. Glendi and festivities followed the parade in the Civic Auditorium. Our 6th annual Pascha Social was held on May 1, 2011, the Sunday after Easter, at the back yard of our president, Chris Daskalakis. Epimenides/Ariadne offered lamb, barbecue chicken, hot dogs, Cretan pilafi and salad. Our members shared their specialties. We were blessed with perfect bay area weather. The perfect weather and the many participants made this event exceptionally enjoyable. Our warm sympathies go to our members George and Ann Papadakis, Mike and Olga Papadakis. Spiro and Geogia Papadakis and Ted Xenakis for the death of their sister and sister in law, Elpida Pappis, on April 28, 2011. Our sympathies also go to her daughter Athena Stravrakaras and her family, who so admirably took care of her mother Elpida during Elpida’s last years of her life. May her memory be internal. Salt Lake City, Utah Daughters of Minos The Daughters of Minos held our Annual Mother’s Day Luncheon and Fashion Show on Saturday May 7, 2011. This event was held at the Salt Lake City Center Marriot. We had nearly 300 men, women and children attend this event. The fashion show was provided by Macy’s department store and the models included men, women and children from the Minotavros Youth Chapter, Daughters of Minos and our young children. We also honored Mrs. Elsie Sefandonakis as our Mother of The Year. Mrs. Sefandonakis has been very active in the Daughters of Minos and was the Secretary of the Cretan Juniors for many, many years. Congratulations! On June 1, 2, 3, 2011, we prepared dolmathes for our Annual Greek Festival. The Daughters of Minos have prepared dolmathes for the festival for over twenty-five years. This year we used 1,100 pounds of ground beef. The Daughters of Minos will also cook the dolmathes at the Greek Festival in September. On June 26, 2011 we held our Family Fun Night at the Prophet Elias Church Pavilion. Our Kri-Kri Cretan Dance Group made their debut. The Kri-Kri Cretan Dance Group represents the youngest children between first and third grade. Congratulations on a job well done! Finally, the Daughters of Minos is pleased to announce that we have established a Facebook page. Please visit our page under Daughters of Minos. We will be posting a variety of information, which will include meeting dates, news and events that were held. We would also like to thank everyone that has supported us this year. Their support is greatly appreciated. We also wish everyone a wonderful summer. To those traveling we would like to wish you all a happy, healthy and safe trip. MaryAnn Proestakis, Secretary Springfield, Massachusetts Minos - Crete Association Fifteen-year-old Eftihi Marnelakis delivered an inspiring message to members and friends at the Cretan club in Springfield, Mass. on May 22. His talk included a synopsis of the battle of Crete as well as a poem in Greek by Eftihios Makrimanolakis. After attending church services, the Minos-Crete chapter provided a luncheon at the club in commemoration of “Ti Maxi Tis Kphths.” JUNE 2011 | KPHTH 39 10.10.2048
© Copyright 2024 Paperzz