72 nd Velouchi National Convention Save the Dates June 17-19, 2016

Transcript

1 ΣΟ ΒΔΛ ΤΥΙ Recognized in Rome as one of the best publications of philanthropic organizations ΜΔΓΑΛΟΣΑΤΡΟ ΣΟΤ ΩΣΗΡΟ * ΜΔΣΑΛΛΙΟ ΑΓΙΟΤ ΠΑΤΛΟΤ * ΒΡΑΒΔΙΟ ΑΚΑΓΗΜΙΑ ΑΘΗΝΩΝ * ΓΙΠΛΩΜΑ ΚΟΙΝΩΝΙΚΗ ΠΡΟΝΟΙΑ ΓΙΓΛΩΗ ΔKΓΟΗ ΣΗ ΔΝΩΗ ΔΤΡΤΣΑΝΩΝ ΑΜΔΡΙΚΗ «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» ΑΠΟ ΣΟ 1947 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY * Volume #71 * Issue #299 * OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 * velouchi@bellsouth.net * 72 nd Velouchi National Convention Save the Dates June 17-19, 2016 Hyatt Regency Greenville 220 N Main St * Greenville, South Carolina Plan to have an exciting 3-Day Weekend Getaway at an award-winning hotel offering a refreshing blend of Southern Hospitality and modern, urban convenience. A dynamic retreat center, where you can relax, dine, meet, and play.

2 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» Σξηκεληαία Έθδνζε ηεο Ένωζης Δσρσηάνων Αμερικής 121 Greenwich Road #212 * Charlotte, NC Tel.: (704) * Fax: (704) Velouchi@bellsouth.net * ΔΚΓΟΣΗ/ΤΝΣΑΚΣΗ Διεπζέξηνο Κ. Πεξνύιαο * ΤΜΒΟΤΛΔΤΣΙΚΗ ΔΠΙΣΡΟΠΗ Διεπζεξία Νηθνπνύινπ νθία Καδάθνπ * Όιγα Κνληνλίθα * ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP $ Chapter Dues Members At-large: $45.00 BOARD OF TRUSTEES EXECUTIVE BOARD President: Laura Nixon 1 st Vice President: James Chulkas 2 nd Vice President: Bobby Tsiabassis 1 st Secretary: Sophia Kazakos 2 nd Secretary: Mary Ann Contogiannis 1 st Treasurer: James Kastriches 2 nd Treasurer: Peter Spero BOARD MEMBERS Andrew Kampiziones Chapter # 1 Panagia Prousiotissa* Florence, SC George Anagnostopoulos Chapter # 2 Markos Botsaris Fayetteville, NC John Kortesis Chapter # 3 O Platanos Winston Salem, NC Nick Apostolopoulos Chapter # 4 O Elatos Charlotte, NC Jim Paliouras Chapter # 5 To Kleithi Bur/GBO/Chapel Hill Gus Barlas Chapter # 6 Athanasios Karpenisiotis Asheville, NC Dr. James F. Kotsianas Chapter # 7 Sotira Knoxville, TN Dr. Paul Dallas Chapter # 8 Megdova Roanoke, VA George Giannopoulos Chapter # 9 Kefalovriso Greenville, SC Chriss Poulos Chapter # 10 Itia Washington, DC Constantinos Kalevas Chapter # 11 Liontari Hampton Roads, VA Evangelos Moutogiannis Chapter # 12 Roumeli New Haven, CT Thomas Skordas Chapter # 14 Agia Triatha Richmond, VA George Serpanos Chapter # 15 To Psilo Nero Seattle, WA Spiros Kardambikis Chapter # 16 O Katsantonis New Castle, PA James Caras Chapter # 17 O Aetos Atlanta, GA Angeliki Lloyd Chapter #18 O Agios Taxiarhis Camp Hill, PA Joy Dascalakis Daughters of Evrytania STANDING COMMITTEES IN U.S.A COMMITTEES SCHOLARSHIP: Jimmy N. Kontos (Co-Chair), Sophia Kazakos (Co-Chair), Vicki Kappas- Keriazes, Tom Skenteris, Larry Peroulas, Dr. James Kotsianas, Bobby Tsiabassis, Hristos Dallas, Maria Peslis. 2. CONSTITUTION AND BY LAWS: Bobby Ziogas (Chair), Stavros Trastelis, Theo Nixon, Dr. Paul Dallas, Dr. Jim Kotsianas, Ted Kazakos, John Demos. 3. PRESS & INFORMATION: Sophia Kazakos (Chair), Valerie Garilas (Vice Chair), all Chapter Correspondents. 4. MEMBERSHIP-SUBSCRIPTION: Jim Chulkas (Chair). All Chapter Presidents. 5. GRIEVANCES AND DISPUTES: Kostas Kazakos (Chair), Tom Nixon (Vice Chair), Bill Skenteris, John Peslis, Dr. Mary Ann Contogiannis. 6. PROPERTY & ASSETS: James Cavalaris (Chair), Jimmie Pourlos (Vice Chair), Tom Skenteris, James Kastriches, Nick Bakatsias (Charlotte), Executive Committee. 7. PREPARATION OF ANNUAL CONVENTIONS COMMITTEE: Jimmy Chulkas (Chair), Nick Demas, Jim Canavos, John Makkas, Nick Skenteris, James Lalas. 8. YOUTH: Valerie Garilas (Chair), Ntina Pappas (Co-Chair), Katie Chulkas, Jimmy Fragakis, Dr. Takie Hondros (Advisor). 9. MUTUAL INTEREST AND ALTRUISM: The Executive Board Members. 10. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: The Executive Committee consists of the 7 elected officers of the Association: The President, the Vice-President and Second Vice-President, the Secretary and Second Secretary, and the Treasurer and Second Treasurer. 11. ADVISORY TO THE BOARD: John G. Peslis (Chair). All Velouchi Past Presidents. 12. NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Stavros Trastelis (Chair), John G. Peslis, Nick Apostolopoulos, James Caras, Jim Tasios, Gus Hodges, Dr. Steve Hodges. 13. REPRESENTATIVES IN GREECE: Dr. Ioannis Yfantopoulos (Chair), Kostas Avrambos (Vice Chair), Pantelis Vlahos (Vice-Chair). 14. FINANCIAL ADVISORY: Dr. James Kotsianas (Chair), Dr. Steve Hodges (Co-Chair), George Kroustalis, Tommy Pappas, Jimmy Koutsokalis. 15. NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS: Jim Tasios (Chair), Larry Peroulas (Vice Chair), Kostas Kazakos, Tom Skenteris, Helen Paliouras, John Peslis, James N. Chulkas, Bess Dimos. 16. INFORMATION/TECHNOLOGY/COMMUNICATION: Jimmy Georgiou (Chair), Panagiotis Steele, Jimmy Kontos, Larry Peroulas, Dr. Ioannis Yfantopoulos (Athens-Greece). 17. PUBLIC RELATIONS: The seven members of the Executive Board. 18. CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS: Tom Nixon (Chair, Tasos Hasapis (Vice Chair), George Dais, Velouchi Board of Trustees. 19. EDITORIAL BOARD: Larry Peroulas (Chair/Editor), John G. Peslis, Jimmy N. Kontos, Olga Kleto, Sophia Kazakos. 20. AUDITING COMMITTEE: Tommy Pappas (Chair), Arthur Pappas, Tom Nixon, George Retsios, Kostas Kazakos. 21. RAFFLE: Tom Nixon (Chair), George Katergaris (Vice Chair), Danny Ziozios, James Kastriches (Treasurer), Tom Skenteris, John Peslis, Mike Pistiolis, Chapter Presidents. AD HOC COMMITTEES IN U.S.A EDUCATION & CULTURE: Larry Peroulas (Chair), Dr. Ioannis Yfantopoulos (Vice Chair), Jim Tasios, Stavros Trastelis. REPRESENTATIVES TO GREEK/AMERICAN ORGANIZATIONS IN THE US: Executive Board Members. CHAPTER VISITATIONS: The Executive Board Members and all Velouchi Past Presidents. CONVENTION ADVISORY: Sophia Kazakos (Chair), Tom Skenteris, Dr. Paul Dallas, Executive EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TASK FORCE: Bobby Ziogas (Chair), Sophia Kazakos, Dr. Paul Dallas, George Dais, Dr. Mary Ann Contogiannis, Laura Nixon, Jimmy Chulkas. COMMITTEES IN GREECE SCHOLARSHIPS IN ATHENS: Dr. Ioannis Yfantopoulos (Chair), Panagiotis K. Vlahos (Vice Chair), Christos Giannakopoulos (Secretary), Kostas Abrambos, Vasilios Trihias, Pantelis Vlahos, Epamenontas Tsiampokalos, Evangelos Niavis, Theofanis Saxonis. SCHOLARSHIPS IN KARPENISSI: Pantelis Vlahos (Chair), Kostas Kostopoulos (Director of Koinoniki Pronoia), Lambros Karanikas (Vice Chair), Ioannis Economides (Secretary), Vasilios Trihias. BOARD REPRESENTATIVES TO THE KARPENISI GEROKOMEIO: Christos G. Armagos, Pantelis Vlahos. EVRYTANIAN FOUNDATION BOARD Nick Apostolopoulos, Chairman ( ) * Jim Tasios, Vice Chairman ( ) Chris Karageorge, Secretary ( ) * Tommy Pappas, Treasurer ( ) Jimmy Christodoulias ( ) * James Caras ( ) * George Retsios ( )

3 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 3 PRESIDENT S MESSAGE prolific and fruitful projects, such as $5,600 towards Children with Special Needs, three projects they hold on an annual basis and $2,500 donations divided among 8 charities. For us to have a new Membership Directory in the coming year, it would be imperative for our chapters to take their membership rolls and check on any recent change of addresses, include an address if one is available, and have one of the members, maybe a woman who would be more familiar with the wife's name, include the names of the wives next to the member's name. You are urged to start this as soon as possible, so we can have an updated directory. Having begun to better understand all the machinery of keeping this organization's operations running smoothly, I have to honor and congratulate all the long time workers who have kept it running smoothly and with everybody's help we will realize a stronger, significant and more thriving Evrytanian Association! With patriotic regards Laura Nixon President Dear Fellow Evrytanians and Friends, On behalf of the Board of Trustees, please accept our best wishes for a wonderful, happy and healthy New Year The Association is very proud to have with us a new webmaster, Kosta S. Housiadas, who will not only set up, update and improve the website, but he will also be willing to instruct our secretary, Larry Peroulas, in updating it himself as items of inclusion, alterations and modification come up. Members should be able to see the changes in a month or so. Last month I had the pleasure of meeting with some of the members of the Atlanta "Aetos" chapter. With president Bess Dimos and a few of their officers and members, they seemed to be very energized and willing to help out the Association in any way they can, working first on the Association goals that were initially set up, and helping to improve their own chapter. They mentioned all the projects they sponsor and potluck dinner meetings they host. Next, I had the opportunity to celebrate with the Fayetteville chapter their annual Christmas party. Their Board invites all the National past presidents each year, and this year as we listened to the treasurer's report, it was inspiring to hear all their very

4 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 4 ΜΗΝΤΜΑ ΠΡΟΔΓΡΟΤ Αγαπεηά Μέιε, Φίιεο θαη Φίινη, Eθ κέξνπο ηνπ Γηνηθεηηθνύ πκβνπιίνπ, δερηείηε ηηο θαιύηεξεο επρέο καο γηα κηα Καιή Υξνληά γεκάηε κε πγεία, επηπρία θαη πξνθνπή. Ωο ζύιινγνο, είκαζηε πνιύ ππεξήθαλνη πνπ ζπλεξγαδόκαζηε ηώξα κε ηνλ θ. Κώζηα Υνπζηάδα, έλαλ Δπξπηάλα επαγγεικαηία κε κεγάιε εκεηξία ζην ζρεδηαζκό θαη ηελ θαηαζθεπή ηζηνζειίδσλ, ν νπνίνο όρη κόλν ζα ζρεδηάζεη θαη ζα βειηηώζεη ηε λέα ηζηνζειίδα αιιά θαη ζα ελεκεξώζεη, ζηα θεληξηθά καο γξαθεία, ηνλ Λεπηέξε Πεξνύια πσο ν ίδηνο πιένλ ζα κπνξεί λα ρεηξίδεηαη, λα αλαλεώλεη θαη λα αλαβαζκίδεη ηνλ λέν καο δηθηπαθό ηόπν. Πνιύ ζύληνκα ζα έρνπκε όινη ηελ επθαηξία λα δνύκε ηηο αιιαγέο απηέο. Σνλ πεξαζκέλν κήλα είρα ηελ ραξά λα ζπλαληεζώ κε θάπνηα από ηα κέιε ηνπ Σκήκαηόο καο «Αεηόο» ζηελ Αηιάληα. Η πξόεδξνο ηνπ Σκήκαηνο, Bess Dimos, θαη ηα κέιε ηνπ Γ.. είλαη ηδηαίηεξα ζπλεηδεηνπνηεκέλα άηνκα θαη πνιύ πξόζπκα λα βνεζήζνπλ ηελ Έλσζε λα πξαγκαηνπνηήζεη ηνπο θύξηνπο ζηόρνπο ηεο γηα ηνπο νπνίνπο ηδξύζεθε αιιά θαη λα αλαπηύμνπλ πεξαηηέξσ ηηο δξαζηεξηόηεηεο ηνπ δηθνύ ηνπο Σκήκαηνο. Δπίζεο, κε ελεκέξσζαλ γηα ηα έξγα πνπ έρνπλ πξνγξακκαηίζεη θαη ρξεκαηνδνηνύλ θαζώο θαη ηηο επηηπρείο ζπλεδξηάζεηο θαη εθδειώζεηο κεηά δείπλνπ πνπ νξγαλώλνπλ. ηε ζπλέρεηα, είρα ηελ επθαηξία λα αληαπνθξηζώ κε ραξά ζηελ πξόζθιεζε ηνπ Σκήκαηόο καο ζην Fayetteville, NC θαη λα παξεπξεζώ ζην ζαπκάζην Υξηζηνπγελληάηηθν πάξηη πνπ νξγαλώλνπλ κε επηηπρία θάζε ρξόλν θαη ζην νπνίνλ θαινύληαη θαη όινη νη πξώελ πξόεδξνη ηεο Έλσζεο. ηελ εηήζηα έθζεζή ηνπ ν Σακίαο ηνπ Σκήκαηνο, αλαθέξζεθε ζην παξαγσγηθό θαη θαξπνθόξν έξγν πνπ επηηεινύλ ηα κέιε ηνπ θαη ηδηαίηεξα ζηε θηιαλζξσπηθή πξνζθνξά ηνπο όπσο $5.600 πξνο ην ζεάξεζην Πξόγξακκα ηεο Έλσζεο «Παηδηά κε Δηδηθέο Αλάγθεο», $2.500 δσξεέο πνπ θαηαλέκνληαη ζε 8 θηιαλζξσπηθά ηδξύκαηα θαζώο θαη ζε άιια εηήζηα ζεκαληηθά έξγα. Γηα ηε δεκηνπξγία ελόο λένπ θαη απαξαίηεηνπ θαηαιόγνπ όισλ ησλ κειώλ ηεο Έλσζήο καο, θαζίζηαηαη επηηαθηηθή ε αλάγθε γηα ηα 18 Σκήκαηά καο λ αλαιάβνπλ ηελ πξσηνβνπιία λα ειέγμνπλ ηηο ιίζηεο ησλ κειώλ ηνπο, λα θάλνπλ ηηο απαξαίηεηε αιιαγέο ζε δηπζύλζεηο θαη αξηζκνύο ηειεθώλνπ θαη λα θαηαρσξίζνπλ επίζεο θαη δηεπζύλζεηο ειεθηξνληθνύ ηαρπδξνκείνπ ( addresses), έηζη ώζηε λα αλαβαζκίζνπκε ηελ επηθνηλσλία κεηαμύ καο ζ έλαλ θόζκν πνπ αιιάδεη κε ηόζν γξήγνξνπο ξπζκνύο. Θα ήηαλ επίζεο πνιύ ρξήζηκν λ αλαθέξεηαη θαη ην όλνκα ηεο/ηνπ ζπδύγνπ ηνπ κέινπο. Απεπζύλσ έθθιεζε λα μεθηλήζνπκε απηή ηε δηαδηθαζία ην ζπληνκόηεξν, έηζη ώζηε ν λένο απηόο θαηάινγνο λα γίλεη πξαγκαηηθόηεηα ην Έρνληαο αξρίζεη ηώξα λα θαηαλνώ θαιύηεξα όινπο ηνπο κεραληζκνύο δξάζεσλ θαη έξγσλ γηα ηε δηαηήξεζε, αλάπηπμε θαη νκαιή ιεηηνπξγία ηεο Έλσζήο καο, απνλέκσ ηηκέο θαη ζπγραξεηήξηα ζε όινπο θαη όιεο πνπ γηα πνιιά ρξόληα ζπκβάιινπλ ζηελ ζπλερή νκαιή ιεηηνπξγία ηεο. Δίκαη ζίγνπξε πσο κε ηε βνήζεηα όισλ καο ζα δεκηνπξγήζνπκε κηα πνιύ ζεκαληηθή, πην ηζρπξή θαη αθκάδνπζα Έλσζε Δπξπηάλσλ Ακεξηθήο «Σν Βεινύρη»! Με παηριφηικούς ταιρεηιζμούς, Δλεσθερία Νικοπούλοσ Save the Date SUNDAY, MARCH 13, 2015 Join us at the 3 rd Velouchi Board of Trustees Meeting GREENVILLE, SC

5 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 5 ==ΘΤΓΑΣΔΡΔ ΔΤΡΤΣΑΝΙΑ== President s Message Dearest Evrytanians, Happy New Year to you all; I hope that 2016 brings you all many blessings! My family returned November 28th from our trip to Greece. Alexandra and I had never been, and Demetri had not visited in over 20 years. It was a phenomenal trip for all of us. We went first to Karpenisi and stayed in a wonderful small hotel called the Selestina. While in Karpenisi, I met with Penny Raptis to deliver the checks for the ladies in need of dental work. Ms. Raptis expressed the appreciation of the ladies and the criticality of their needs. She personally evaluates the women requesting assistance so that we can be sure that the funds go to those who are truly needy. From that visit I went to the Education office and met with Georgia Katsanou. We had checks for several village schools in Everytania that educate 43 children. Ms. Katsanou explained to us how great the needs are in the area, and how many of the children lack even the very basics. While $100per student isn t a lot of money for most of us, it will make a large difference to these small schools who struggle to provide a good education to these children. I left these visits very humbled and grateful for the opportunity to share the love and generosity of the Daughters of Evrytania with these wonderful people. We drove directly from these meetings to the Monastery at Proussos. We stepped out of the car in a gentle rain and were greeted with the wondrous sounds of chanting from the Priests holding services. We were almost the only people visiting and the experience was truly spiritual. As our family lit candles and prayed for our friends and family, I was overcome with gratitude. I am blessed to have this opportunity to work with each and every one of you. That work continued the day after our return from Greece when the Daughters met in Winston Salem. We discussed the need for us to modernize our records and communication so Elizabeth Contogiannis, Zoe Michaels, and I are going to start creating electronic records of all the paper records and reports that we have. We welcome any assistance that anyone would like to offer. We have a lot to do but we feel it s the first step in improving our communication with all our members. That being said, if you are reading this but aren t a member, please contact me at Joy.Dascalakis@volvo.com so that we can get you signed up. We need your time and talents to continue our good works. We are also planning our meeting and an activity for the Convention in Greenville. Please mark your calendars for June th, 2016 to join us! Thank you! Joy Dascalakis Daughters of Evrytania President

6 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 6 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #1 Panagia Prousiotissa FLORENCE, SC ΒΑΠΣΙΔΙ John William Doulaveris was baptized on October 18, 2015 at The Transfiguration of Our Savior Greek Orthodox Church in Florence, SC. The officiating priest was Fr. Athanasios Haros, and the Godmother of the child is Miss Constance Gabriel. John is the third son of William and Tiffany Doulaveris of Florence, SC. William and Tiffany have two other sons, Steven (8), and Luke (5). John is the grandson of Steven & Helen Doulaveris and of Spero & Kaleen Kanos, of Florence, South Carolina. Veronica is also the granddaughter of Tommy and Christina Cholkas and Maria Tassios and the late Bill Tassios. She was baptized in to the Greek Orthodox Church of our community in Florence, SC August 16 th. Her proud nouno and nouna are Tommy and Jenny Mourounas of Florence, SC. A luncheon followed the baptismal at the Country Club of South Carolina. We congratulate the parents of Veronica Vasia, as well as, her spiritual parents, Tommy and Jenny, and wish that they live long years to see her even as a bride. WEDDING CHAPTER #2 «Markos Botsaris» FAYETTEVILLE, NC ==Τησ κ. Μαρίασ Κουτςοποφλου== Έλα κεγάιν «ΔΤΥΑΡΙΣΩ» θαη πνιιά ζπγραξεηήξηα ζε όια εθείλα ηα κέιε ηεο θνηλόηεηάο καο πνπ κε ηελ εξγαηηθόηεηά ηνπο, ηελ αληδηνηέιεηα θαη ηελ αγάπε ηνπο, ζπλεηέιεζαλ ζηελ επηηπρή δηεμαγσγή ηνπ εηήζηνπ Διιεληθνύ Φεζηηβάι ζηηο αξρέο επηεκβξίνπ, ηνπ Γηεζλνύο Φεζηηβάι, ην νπνίν δηνξγαλώλεη ε πόιε ηνπ Φέηηβηιι ζηηο 27 επηεκβξίνπ θαη ηέινο ζηελ εηήζηα μαθνπζηή θαη πεληαλόζηηκε καθαξνλάδα καο ζηηο 18 ηνπ Ννέκβξε. Δύρνκαη λα γίλνπλ έλα θσηεηλό παξάδεηγκα γηα όινπο εκάο ηνπο ππόινηπνπο. ΒΑΠΣΙH Veronica Vasia Tassios is the daughter of George and Vickie Tassios. She is the baby sister to Christina Maria, On October 31st Panagiotis George Gioldasis, the son of George and Agathoula Gioldasis and Megan Player Beasley, the daughter of Wes Beasley and Lil Merritt, both from Florence, South Carolina were married at the Transfiguration Of Our Savior Greek Orthodox Church in Florence, South Carolina. After which, a reception took place at the Florence Country Club. The couple honeymooned in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. They reside in Florence, South Carolina where Pete owns and operates two wine and liquor stores, and Megan is the Branch Manager of Investment Services for CB&T Financial Services ηηο 27 επηεκβξίνπ 2015, ακέζσο κεηά ηε Θεία Λεηηνπξγία, βαπηίζζεθε ην ηξηζραξηησκέλν αγνξάθη ηνπ Κσλ/λνπ θαη Κσλ/λαο Φξαγθάθε. Οη αλάδνρνη ηνπ κπζηεξίνπ, Παλαγηώηεο θαη Αγγειηθή (Sunshine) θεληέξε, έδσζαλ ζην λενθώηηζην ην όλνκα Θσκάο. Ο κηθξόο Θσκάο είλαη εγγνλάθη ηνπ Θσκά θαη Μαξίλαο Φξαγθάθε από ηελ ελνξία καο θαη επίζεο εγγνλάθη ηνπ αείκλεζηνπ Ισάλλε θαη Μαξίθαο Γαιιή από ην Γνπίλζηνλ άιεκ ηεο Β. Καξνιίλαο.

7 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 7 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #2 FAYETTEVILLE, NC ΓΑΜΟ πξώηνλ γηα ηελ αγάπε ηνπ πξνο ηελ Έλσζή καο θαη ηελ εζεινληηθή ηνπ πξνζθνξά θαη δεύηεξνλ γηα ην λεαξό ηεο ειηθίαο ηνπ πνπ πξέπεη λα γίλεη παξάδεηγκα πξνο κίκεζε γηα όινπο ηνπο λένπο καο. Θεξκά ζπγραξεηήξηα ζην Γεξάζηκν αιιά θαη ζηνπο γνλείο ηνπ Γεώξγην θαη Διέλε Αλαγλσζηνπνύινπ Σε ζαπκάζηα απηή εθδήισζε ηίκεζαλ κε ηελ παξνπζία ηνπο ε πξόεδξνο ηεο Έλσζεο θπξία Laura Nixon κε ηνλ ζύδπγό ηεο Σom, ν θ. Διεπζ. Πεξνύιαο, ν θ. Tommy Pappas κε ηε ζύδπγό ηνπ Lucy, ν πξόεδξνο ηνπ ηκήκαηνο Kiwanis Club ηνπ Fayetteville, Mr. Jim Thornton θαη ε ζύδπγόο ηνπ. ηηο 3 Οθησβξίνπ 2015 ηειέζζεθαλ νη γάκνη ηεο Ισάλλαο Υαζάπε (θόξεο ηνπ Γεκεηξίνπ θαη Διέλεο Υαζάπε) θαη ηνπ Roger Johnson. Κνπκπάξνη ηεο σξαίαο θαη ζεκλήο απηήο ηειεηήο ήηαλ νη λνλνί ηεο Ισάλλαο, η αδέιθηα Απόζηνινο θαη Μαξία Καηζάλνπ. Μεηά ην κπζηήξην αθνινύζεζε γιέληη κε ειιεληθή θαη μέλε κνπζηθή, κε λόζηηκα θαγεηά θαη γιπθά. Να δήζνπλ νη λεόλπκθνη θαη λα έρνπλ «Βίνλ Αλζόζπαξηνλ» θαη θαινύο απνγόλνπο. ==ΤΛΛΤΠΗΣΗΡΙΑ== Δθθξάδνπκε ηα ζεξκά καο ζπιιππεηήξηα ζηνπο Σάζζν θαη Γεκήηξε Υαζάπε γηα ην ζάλαην ηνπ αδειθνύ ηνπο, Ισάλλε Υαζάπε, ζην Κηβέξη Αξγνιίδαο ζηελ Διιάδα. Ο θ. Σάζνο Υαζάπεο ππεξέηεζε κε επηηπρία θαη σο πξόεδξνο ηνπ ηνπηθνύ καο Σκήκαηνο. Αο είλαη αησλία ε κλήκε ηνπ Ισάλλε θαη ειαθξύ ην ρώκα πνπ ηνλ ζθεπάδεη. ΥΡΙΣΟΤΓΔΝΝΙΑΣΙΚΟ ΓΔΙΠΝΟ ηηο 6 Γεθεκβξίνπ 2015, ζην εζηηαηόξην Chris s Steak House, ζπγθεληξώζεθαλ ηα κέιε θαη θίινη ηνπ ηνπηθνύ Σκήκαηνο κε ηηο νηθνγέλεηέο ηνπο γηα λα γηνξηάζνπλ, όπσο ζπλεζίδνπλ θάζε ρξόλν, ηνλ εξρνκό ησλ Υξηζηνπγελληάηηθσλ ενξηώλ. Ήηαλ κηα δεζηή βξαδηά θαη ηδηαίηεξα ενξηαζηηθή. Σν βξαβείν «Ο Καιιίηεξνο Βεινπρηώηεο ηεο Υξνληάο» έιαβε ν λεαξόο Γεξάζηκνο Αλαγλσζηόπνπινο από ηνλ πεξζηλό ληθεηή Διεπζέξην Παπαζπύξνπ. ηνλ Γεξάζηκν αμίδνπλ δηπιά ζεξκά ζπγραξεηήξηα,

8 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 8 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #2 - FAYETTEVILLE, NC CHAPTER #3 «Ο Πιάηαλνο» * WINSTON-SALEM, NC ==Τεο Αιεμάλδξαο Σθπινδήκνπ== ΓΔΝΝΗΔΙ Θερμά σγταρηηήρια ζηοσς: 20 Νοεμβρίοσ 2015 Η μεγαλύηερη Μακαρονάδα ηοσ Κόζμοσ ζηο Φέιηβιλ ηης Β. Καρολίνας Νία & Γηάλλε Καδάθν γηα ηελ γέλλεζε ηεο θόξεο ηνπο Μαίξεο Δβειηλ Παξαζθεπήο. Πεξήθαλνη παππνύδεο θαη γηαγηάδεο είλαη νη Κώζηαο & Μαξία Υαληδεθσζηόπνπινπ, Αλδξέαο θαη ε αείκλεζηε Βαζηιηθή Καδάθνπ. Μαξία θαη Βίθησξ Βαιεληίλν γηα ηελ γέλλεζε ηεο θόξεο ηνπο Υξηζηηάλλαο Αγγειηθήο. Πεξήθαλνη παππνύδεο θαη γηαγηάδεο είλαη νη Κώζηαο θαη νύια Μπαιαηζηά. ππξηδνύια θαη εξαθείκ Μπαιαηζά γηα ηελ γέλλεζε ηνπ γηνπ ηνπο Ισάλλε. Πεξήθαλνη παππνύδεο θαη γηαγηάδεο είλαη νη Γηάλλεο θαη Πελειηά Μπαιαηζά θαη Ισάλλεο θαη Φαλή Καηζίθε από ην Harrisburg, PA. Να ζαο δήζνπλ ηα λενγέλλεηα! ΑΡΡΑΒΩΝΑ πγραξεηήξηα ζηνλ Γεώξγην Λεινύδε θαη Λίλα Φσζηήξα γηα ηνλ αξξαβώλα ηνπο. Ο Γηώξγνο είλαη γηνο ηεο Γηνλπζίαο θαη ηνπ αείκλεζηνπ Αζαλάζηνπ Λεινύδε θαη ε Λίλα είλαη θόξε ηεο Αγγειηθήο & Αλδξέα Φσζηήξα από ηελ Διιάδα. Ο γάκνο ηνπο ζα γίλεη ην θαινθαίξη ζηελ Διιάδα. Καλά Σηέθανα! ΓΑΜΟ πγραξεηήξηα ζηελ Μαξία Π. ηξαβνκύηε θαη ζηνλ Λάκπξν Σζίπξα γηα ην γάκν ηνπο ζηηο 23 Απγνύζηνπ ζηελ Διιάδα. Κνπκπάξνη παξέζηεζαλ ε Υξπζνβαιάληνπ Μπαζηνύλε θαη ν Ισάλλεο Φνύθαο. Να δήζεηε! ΤΛΛΤΠΗΣΗΡΙΑ ηνλ Αξηζηείδε Διεθάληε, Φώθε Καξαγηώξγν, Αξγπξώ & Νηίλν Ράπηε, Γηώξγν Διεθάληε, Νίθν & Δπθξνζύλε ακαξά θαη ζηηο νηθνγέλεηέο ηνπο γηα ηνλ ζάλαην ηεο Δηξήλεο Διεθάληε. Ο Κύξηνο λα αλαπαύζεη ηελ ςπρή ηεο θαη παξεγνξήζεη ηελ νηθνγέλεηά ηεο.

9 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 9 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #3 WINSTON-SALEM, NC ==OBITUARY== James K. Nicopoulos July 23, December 11, 2015 CHAPTER #4 «Ο Έιαηνο» CHARLOTTE, NC ==Τεο θ. Ιωάλλαο Καηεξγάξε== ==OBITUARY== Lula Fellos Pappas in death by her brother, Steve Fellos and her sister, Katina Laskaris. She is survived by her sons, George Pappas and his wife, Peggy of Cornelius, NC and Peter N. Pappas and his wife, Eve of Charlotte; grandchildren, Chad Pappas, John Burns and his wife, Stephanie, Jeff Burns and his wife, Mallory, Bree Basham and her husband, Mike, and Lauren Walker and her husband, Chris; five greatgrandchildren, Nathan Gianelli, Samantha and Jacob Burns, Maggie Ann Burns, and Cate Walker; and a sister, Jeannie Gallins and her husband Johnny of Winston-Salem, NC; and many nieces and nephews ==OBITUARΤ== Nikolaos Evangelos Politis Jimmy K. Nicopoulos, 79, of High Point, NC, (known as Jimmy), passed away suddenly at his home on Friday, December 11, He went home to be an angel with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was born to his late beloved parents, Konstandinos Dimitrios Nicopoulos and Xrisanthi Haralambos Kotsionis, on July 23, 1936, in Kalesmeno, Evrytania. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Maria Nicopoulos, and three daughters, Christina Prentzas of High Point, Penelope Kaliviotis and husband, Sotirios, Cathy Liaskonis and husband John, of Winston-Salem. He is also survived by six dear grandchildren, Litsa Prentzas, Lena and Johnny Kaliviotis, and Vasili, Ritsa, Demetri Liaskonis. He came to America in 1955 on the ship "Queen Frederica". He was 19 years old and was looking to begin a new life and to find the American dream. Jimmy returned to Greece in 1962 and in 1963 married the love of his life Maria Ballas from Marathia, Evrytania, Greece. They returned to America and opened their first restaurant in downtown High Point called the Nugget House. They operated Steve's Pizza House, later to become Jimmy's Pizza House, on Main Street in Jimmy and Maria were lifetime restauranteurs in High Point, operating Betty's White House, and creating the well known seafood restaurants Skipper's Seafood and Sanabel's Seafood, both which are still popular today. His love for the High Point City was reciprocated by the community and he was honored on June 18, 2006, by the city's proclaiming that day as "James K. Nicopoulos Day". Jimmy also loved the Greek community of his roots and he served as parish council president and board member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church for many years. Lula Fellos Pappas passed away peacefully on December 14, 2015, at the age of 93, surrounded by family. In passing, she is reunited with her beloved husband, Nicholas George Pappas. Lula was born in Volos, Greece on June 4, 1922, the daughter of the late Peter Fellos and Helene Mavrika Fellos. Her family moved to the United States when she was a small child. Lula graduated from Central High School and Kings Business College. It was during afternoon Greek School that Lula would meet her future husband, Nick Pappas, who she would marry in 1944, just before he shipped off overseas to serve in the US Army. Lula was a life-long member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral where she taught Sunday School for many years. Along with her husband, she was actively involved in countless ways in the Holy Trinity community. Lula was a long-time officer and member of Daughters of Penelope. She was president and long time treasurer of the Daughters of Evrytania, and a charter member of the Ladies Philoptochos where she served for 73 years. In 2005, she was awarded the Archangel Michael Honor by Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta for her faithful service, tireless efforts and heartfelt dedication to her faith. Lula worked side-by-side with her husband in their restaurants and would later do the same with both of her sons. She remained active in the restaurant business until she was 89 years old. Her zest for life and welcoming spirit were readily apparent to everyone she encountered. She will be missed by her countless friends, particularly her many friends at Park Lanes where she bowled and worked for many years alongside her sons. In addition to her husband and parents, Lula was preceded Mr. Nikolaos Politis, 83, of Charlotte, NC passed away peacefully on November 8th, 2015, surrounded by his family after a long illness. He was born on April 15, 1932, at the village of Agia Vlaherna, Greece, the youngest of six children to the late Evangelos and Gianoula Liapis Politis He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maria Katsanos Politis; his children, son Deacon George N. Politis, his wife Koula and their children Maria G. and Nikolaos; his son Jimmy Politis, his wife Mahi and their children, Maria D., Nikolaos D. and Alexandra; his daughter Ioanna Politis and her son George Kakouras. He served in the Greek army for two and a half years. He immigrated with his family to the United States on January 21st, 1970, in Charlotte, NC. He retired from the restaurant and the construction business. Some of his favorite hobbies were, hunting, fishing and he enjoyed spending time in his garden. He was a devout Christian and a member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. A man of integrity and strong faith. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved everyone and he was loved by everyone.

10 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 10 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #4 * CHARLOTTE, NC ==Τεο θ. Ιωάλλαο Καηεξγάξε== ΓΑΜΟ Mr. John A. Polites and Mr. Pete Politis Saint Nektarios Icon ηηο 7 Ννεκβξίνπ 2015 ζην άξινη ηεο Β. Καξνιίλαο, κε πνιινύο ζπγγελείο θαη θίινπο θαη κε θνπκπάξν ηνλ Θαλάζε Νηθνιόπνπιν, έγηλαλ νη γάκνη ηνπ Γηώξγνπ νρσξίηε θαη ηεο Καιπδώλαο Γαιαηά. Ο Γηώξγνο είλαη γηόο ηνπ Παλαγηώηε θαη ηεο Άλλαο νρσξίηε θαη ε Καιπδώλα είλαη θόξε ηνπ Θσκά θαη ηεο Γήκεηξαο Γαιαηά. Μεηά ην κπζηήξην ηνπ γάκνπ αθνινύζεζε κηα σξαηόηαηε δεμίσζε ζηελ κεγάιε αίζνπζα εθδειώζεσλ ηνπ θνηλνηηθνύ θέληξνπ ηνπ Καζεδξηθνύ Νανύ Αγίαο Σξηάδνο κε πινύζηα θαγεηά, ειιεληθή κνπζηθή θαη ρνξό. Μεηά ην γακήιην ηαμίδη ηνπο ζηελ Απζηξαιία, ν Γηώξγνο θαη ε Καιηδώλα εγθαηαζηάζεθαλ ζην άξινη. Σνπο επρόκαζηε «Βίον Ανθόζπαρηον» θαη θαινύο απνγόλνπο. Panagia Prousiotissa Chapel at Elatos Park After a church service and workshop they had at the Panagia Prousiotissa Chapel, St. Nektarios parishioners donated a beautiful icon of St. Nektarios to the chapel. The icon was presented to Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy and Angie Kastriches by the couple Dr. & Mrs. Dennis and Kabee Kokenes. Charlotte Chapter Christmas Party A snopshot of several Velouchi Charlotte Chapter members during their annual Christmas gathering at the Elatos Park facilities.

11 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 11 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #4 CHARLOTTE, NC Christmas Party at the Elatos Park Μηθξή ήηαλ ε πξνζέιεπζε ησλ κειώλ ηνπ ηνπηθνύ καο Σκήκαηνο απηή ηε ρξνληά ζηελ εηήζηα εθδήισζε κεηά δείπλνπ πνπ πξαγκαηνπνηήζεθε ηελ Κπξηαθή, 13 Γεθεκβξίνπ ζηελ αίζνπζα εθδειώζεσλ ηνπ παξεθθιεζίνπ καο «Παλαγία Πξνπζηώηηζζα» ζην Πάξθν Έιαηνο. Ο πξόεδξνο ηνπ Σκήκαηνο, θ. Σνκ Νίμνλ, εθθξάδεη θαη πάιη ηηο ζεξκόηαηεο επραξηζηίεο ηνπ ζην δεύγνο Κώζηα θαη ίληη Υνιέβα γηα ηελ δσξεά πξνζθνξά ηνπ ζαπκάζηνπ δείπλνπ θαζώο θαη ζηηο θπξίεο ησλ Θπγαηέξσλ Δπξπηαλίαο γηα ηα γεπζηηθόηαηα ειιεληθά γιπθίζκαηα. MEMBERSHIP DUES - Dispelling a Myth We would like to take this opportunity to dispel the misconception that senior citizens are exempt from paying their annual dues to the Association and their local chapter. After researching, we found no past decisions or by-laws stating senior citizens are exempt from paying Association dues. Therefore, anyone wishing to be in good standing may pay their annual Evrytanian Association dues regardless of age. Bobby Tsiabassis Velouchi Second Vice President

12 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 12 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #4 CHARLOTTE, NC== OBITUARΤ== Xenophon P. Karras Xenophon P. Karras, 76, died Thursday, December 10, He was born in 1939 in Paparousi, Evrytainias, Greece. Xenophon came to Charlotte, NC in 1956 where he attended and graduated from Central High School. He was a business owner, enjoyed life and loved his family, spending time with each and every one. He was preceded in death by his parents, Panagiotis Nikolaou Karagounis and Virginia Dimitropoulos Karagounis as well his siblings, Virginia Haliandros, Athanasios, Sophoklis, Antigoni and Georgios Karagounis. Mr. Karras is survived by his daughter, Virginia Karras and her husband, Scott Suddreth; grandchildren, Christina and Xena Balaouras, Nia and Xenophon Suddreth, Caleb, Bryson and Andrew Suddreth; brother, Nick Karras and his wife Dafni; sisters, Eleni Toufekias and her husband, Nick and Maria Kostopoulos and her husband, Eleftherios; and many nieces and nephews.

13 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 13 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #6 Athanasios Karpenisiotis ASHEVILLE, NC ==OBITUARΤ== Angelo Pappas Angelo was a loving and dedicated husband, father, Papou (grandfather) and friend to all that knew him. He served on many boards and was a faithful member of his church and is the current recipient of the Archangel Michael Award. Velouchi Scholarship Applications 2016 Eligible for scholarships are Evrytanian Association members' children of the US or Canada, who will be attending Canadian or US Universities/Colleges for the academic year Parents or students must be of Evrytanian descent and members in good standing of the Association for minimum 3 years prior to application for scholarship, including the year in which application is submitted. Applications Deadline: May 1, or call * velouchi@bellsouth.net Evangelos Athanasios Papadopoulos, 96, died on Saturday October 31, 2015 at this home. His wife Mary Vlahos Pappas was by his side. Angelo was born in Fidakia Evrytania, Greece on November 12, 1919 to the late Athanasios and Maria Kaltsunis Papadopoulos. He is also preceded in death by two brothers, three sisters and his granddaughter, Katy Anne. Angelo migrated to America in 1938 where he worked in New York. He worked his way to Williamson, WV and Columbia, SC until he finally settled in Asheville in 1954 where he opened Grace Restaurant in North Asheville. In 1955 he married his loving and devoted wife Mary Vlahos. Together they opened Land O'Sky Restaurant in Biltmore and ran the business for 20 years. He is survived by his wife Mary, three children, Arthur (Laurie), Litsa (Ted), Penny (Steve) and his grandchildren, Helene (Ken), Dean, Evan, Maria, Sara, Stephanie and Davis, as well as two great grandchildren, Cameron and Connor.

14 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 14 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER#7 Sotira KNOXVILLE, TN ENGAGEMENT Dr. and Mrs James F. Kotsianas are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter Sperry to Dr. James Wheeler, of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Sperry and James are both graduates of the University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, where they received their doctorate degrees. A May 2016 wedding is planned. Καιά ζηέθαλα! 2016 PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

15 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 15 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #8 Megdova * ROANOKE, VA October is breast cancer awareness month. Vasilea Karageorge '18 is researching the disease Roanoke sophomore s breast cancer research published in scientific journal of Roanoke College By Sharon Nanz As a sophomore, Vasilea Karageorge '18 is already an experienced researcher at the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute in Roanoke. Along with several colleagues there, she recently published a scholarly article in Scientific Reports that Outlines how their team used cutting-edge technology to identify the structure of BRCA1 gene mutations, which are linked to 25% of all breast cancers. Breast cancer has fascinated me from a very young age. I know many women close to me who have had breast cancer We may not have found a cure yet, but we have definitely made progress and are closer than ever have been. Vasilea Karageorge '18 Karageorge, who is from Roanoke, has been with the Research Institute for three years, working under the mentorship of Institute professor Dr. Deborah Kelly and in collaboration with a team of doctors, scholars, and graduate students. She first applied to the Institute as a high school junior for a science project when she attended the Roanoke Valley Governor's School for Science and Technology. "A Molecular Toolkit to Visualize Native Protein Assemblies in the Context of Human Disease," the "Scientific Reports" article that Karageorge co-authored, discusses how the team tested a brand-new molecular imaging technique while researching mutated BRCA1 genes. The novel microchip technology and imaging methods they used are superior to current gene decoding processes, which are challenging, lengthy, and less accurate. The work of Karageorge and her colleagues resulted in new information about the gene mutations, which also are implicated in ovarian cancer. "This finding is critical in understanding how mutations in the BRCA1 gene can lead to cancer," Karageorge said. "If we can understand why this mutation leads to cancer, we can, in the long run, determine more efficient ways to combat it." "Breast cancer has fascinated me from a very young age," Karageorge said. "I know many women close to me who have had breast cancer... We may not have found a cure yet, but we have definitely made progress and are closer than we ever have been." Karageorge, who plans to double-major in biology and business administration and attend medical school, has presented her work all over the state and in Philadelphia. In addition to her research duties, she oversees two or three graduate students each semester, teaching them about the Institute's lab equipment and methods. The above is a reprint of an article appearing in the Roanoke College News Magazine on October 28, Vasilea is the daughter of Roanoke Chapter members Chris and Ourania Karageorge and the grandaughter of Olympia Karageorge and the late Steve Karageorge. The Roanoke Chapter is very proud of Vasilea's accompishments. BIRTH Nick & Jan Kappas of Washington DC are pleased to announce the birth of their second child Sofia on October 26, The proud grandparents are Chris & Maria Kappas of Blacksburg, and Paul & Diana LaRoque of Nashville, TN. Congratulations to all. ENGAGEMENT Aristidis Ziogas and Christina Kyriazis became engaged on Thanksgiving Day, in Amsterdam, Holland. The proud parents are Bobby & Ruby Ziogas of Roanoke, and Leonidas & Anna Kyriazis of Charlotte, NC. Congratulations to all and best wishes for their wedding.

16 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 16 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #9 Kefalovrisso GREENVILLE, SC BIRTH OXI Day Luncheon & Joint meeting for the Convention On October 25, 2015, our Greenville Chapter organized the OXI Day celebration with luncheon. We also held a joint meeting for the month of November with the Daughters of Evrytania. We had lively discussions for the upcoming national convention to be held in Greenville, SC the weekend of of June. We look forward to its success. Lifetime Achievement Award Awarded to Mr. George Giannopoulos Jim and Renee Canavos welcomed a beautiful daughter on November 11 along with big brother Niko, big sister Maggie, and grandparent Eleftheria and the late Nestor Canavos. Να ζαο δήζεη ην λενγέλλεην! WEDDING On Sunday, December 13, 2015, the Velouchi and Daughters of Evrytania of Greenville held their Christmas party. During this event, the Velouchi Chapter 9, honored George Giannopoulos with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of devoted service and dedication to the Evrytanian Association of America. We thank him for his hard work and untiring efforts and wish him many more years. AXIOS! Congratulations Congratulations to Mary Koutroulias, this year's recipient of the Metropolis of Atlanta Archangel Michael Award. Best Wishes for a Happy and prosperous New Year Tiffany Zangas, daughter of Mr and Mrs Tommy Zangas, married Stelio Paraskevas in August. Koumbaro is Mr Jimmy Makkas. Congratulations to the happy couple! 2016 Θερμές Ευχές για Καλή Χρονιά, με Αγάπη, Υγεία και Ελπίδα

17 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 17 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== Velouchi Chapter 9 Kefalovriso in Greenville, SC is the host for the Velouchi 2016 National Convention ranks in the Top 10 Cities to live in the United States. From athletic tournaments and excursions during the day to exciting nightlife and the latest Greek music and dancing at night, we promise satisfaction and kefi for everyone. Come join family and friends for a weekend of fun as we celebrate our Evrytanian heritage here in America. Velouchi Chapter 9 Kefalovrisso wishes you a very Happy New Year and looks forward to welcoming you to our fair city of Greenville, S.C., on June 17-19, 2016, and hopes you make every effort to join us as we host the 2016 Evrytanian Association Convention. Respectfully yours, James N. Chulkas Velouchi Chapter 9 President Dear Fellow Evrytanes, It is my pleasure to announce that Velouchi Chapter 9 Kefalovriso will host the 2016 Evrytanian Association Convention in Greenville, S.C., during the weekend of June 17-19, Preparations are underway to make this our best convention yet. The Convention Committee has developed many ideas to please all age groups of our proud association with special emphasis being placed on the entertainment of our youth. We are planning a full weekend of activities for the young and not so young to enjoy. Greenville, S.C. is an exciting city in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains midway between Charlotte and Atlanta. Our award winning downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere of restaurants, shops, museums, parks, theaters and night life, and boasts a beautiful cascading waterfall running right under Main Street through the center of town which can be viewed from the graceful pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the falls. Along with Greenville s forward thinking business community featuring BMW s American manufacturing plant for its X series SUVs and Michelin s North American Headquarters, it is no wonder Greenville

18 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 18 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #13 Evrytania - CHICAGO, IL By Maria Fountas, Youth Committee Member C hapter 13 EVRYTANIA hosted its first Annual Christmas Party at Kiddie Kingdom in Niles., IL. We had over 45 children. Families joined us to celebrate, play games and enjoy a nice meal. The purpose of this gathering was to bring together families of shared Evritanian roots. It was particularly great because parents of the children bonded over how they remembered participating in these Christmas celebrations and receiving gifts from Santa when they were kids. Building this strong sense of community for parents and children is our goal as leaders of the association and are proud to say that--with the help of members and families--we have been doing great thus far. Ο πξόεδνο ηνπ Τκήκαηνο ζην Σηθάγν, θ. Γεκήηξηνο Κνπξθνπβήο, εύρεηαη, εθ κέξνπο ηνπ Γ.Σ. θαη όιωλ ηωλ κειώλ ηνπ Τκήκαηνο, Χξόληα Πνιιά ζε όια ηα κέιε ηεο Έλωζεο θαη Καιή Χξνληά κε πγεία θαη επηπρία. Δπίζεο, εθθξάδεη ηα ζπγραξεηήξηά ηνπ θαη ηηο ζεξκέο ηνπ επραξηζηίεο ζηε Μαξία Φνύληα θαη ζε όια ηα κέιε ηεο Δπηηξνπήο Νενιαίαο γηα ηελ άξηηα πξνεηνηκαζία θαη εμαηξεηηθή επηηπρία ηεο Χξηζηνπγελληάηηθεο γηνξηήο ηνπ Τκήκαηνο.

19 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 19 ==ΝΔΑ ΑΠΟ ΣΑ ΣΜΗΜΑΣΑ== CHAPTER #17 Ο Αεηός ATLANTA, GA (By Golfo Vastakis) ==OBITUARΤ== Nikolaos S. Vastakis Nikolaos Sotirios Vastakis, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Atlanta, Georgia on Thursday, October 1, He was born in Kastania, Evrytanias, Greece to Sotirios and Eleni Vastakis. He served in the Greek Airforce. He was married to Georgia Baches (Bakatsias) on July 7, 1957 in Athens, Greece. They came to the United States soon after and settled in Augusta, Georgia before moving to Atlanta. He worked as a printer with Allen's Printing Company, but after becoming allergic to the inks, he followed the path of many immigrants and started a long career in the restaurant industry. He joined many fellow Greeks in working at places like the Camelia Garden Restaurant and others before managing many of the Zesto's Snack Shop locations for many years. He then became the manager of Athens Pizza House on Clairmont Road before venturing out and opening Colossus Pizza with his brotherin law Howard Lucas in In 1992, he opened Papa Nick's Greek Pizza and Restaurant with his two sons. At all of these restaurants along the way, he worked tirelessly and with integrity and honesty, giving his all. He touched so many people, customers, and employees alike. Countless workers in the restaurants thought of Nick as a father, with many still calling him "Pops" years later. He was a lifetime member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, serving his church and community. He was a member of AHEPA, The Evrytanian Association of America, Danaos Society, Agia Ekaterini in Atlanta, and Kastaniotis and Agia Paraskevi in Greece. In what little free time he had, he was always helping at the old Hellenic Center on Chesire Bridge Rd, where he could be found either cooking in the kitchen or coaching out on the ballfields. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sotirios and Eleni Vastakis, and brothers Ioanni, Panagioti, and Manoli of Athens Greece. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Georgia Baches Vastakis, and their children, Presvytera Elaine Stratis (Father Anthony) of Knoxville, TN, Golfo Vastakis Odenwelder (Jerry), Steve Vastakis (Janet), and Frank Vastakis(Litsa). Also surviving are his sister, Vasiliki Lekakos of Athens, Greece, and sisters in law Pauline Giannakopoulos (Pete) and Martha Lucas; eight grandchildren: Nick and Stavros Stratis, Yeoryia and Kassiani Vastakis, Niko and Martha Odenwelder, and Nicholas and Alexander Vastakis; numerous godchildren, nieces, and nephews in US and Greece. Funeral services were held at 3:00 pm Saturday, October 3, at the Annunciation Cathedral of Atlanta, with Fr. Paul Kaplanis, Fr. Christos Mars and Fr. Anthony Stratis officiating. Burial followed at Floral Hills Memory Gardens. Pot-luck dinner meeting Our Chapter held a delicious and productive pot-luck dinner meeting on November 1 st. Details from our Panagia Prousiotissa August luncheon were presented. It was also noted that we were one of the sponsors for the Best of the New York Film Festival in Atlanta, we donated meals to the Cathedral s College Outreach program and are always supportive of the Greek School programs. Upcoming events in January include the sponsoring of the Cathedral s Golden Group luncheon as well as serving coffee after Sunday Liturgies for the entire month. BIRTH ηηο 8 επηεκβξίνπ, 2015, ν Μαλώιεο θαη ε Σαζία Κππξαίνπ (θαη ε κεγάιεο αδεξθέο Αγγειηθή θαη Θεκειίλα) θαισζνξίζαλε έλα αγνξάθη 3,23 θηιά, ηνλ Μηράιε. Η Σαζία είλαη ε θόξε ηεο Αγγειηθήο Αγξαθηώηε από ην Erie, PA θαη ν Μαλώιεο είλαη ν γηόο ηνπ Μηράιε θαη ηεο Θέκδνο Κππξαίνπ από ηε Smyrna, GA. On September 8th, Manolis and Tasia Kipreos (and big sisters Angeliki and Themelina) welcomed a baby boy - Michael, born a healthy 7 lbs 1 oz. Tasia is the daughter of Angeliki Agrafiotis of Erie, PA and Manolis is the son of Michael and Themis Kipreos of Smyrna, GA. 72 ο ΔΣΗΙΟ ΤΝΔΓΡΙΟ ΣΟΤ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙΟΤ 72 ND VELOUCHI ANNUAL CONVENTION Save the dates and join us for an unforgettable weekend GREENVILLE, SC JUNE 17-19, 2016

20 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2015 VELOUCHI 20 ===NEWS FROM CHAPTERS=== CHAPTER #18 O Agios Taxiarhis CAMP HILL, PA Annual Holiday/Vasilopita Agios Taxiarhis Chapter #18 President Tom Paparoidamis is pictured with the beautiful slate icon of the Panangia that will be raffled off at our annual Holiday/Vasilopita dinner in January. Proceeds will go to our Chapter Scholarship Fund. THE EVRYTANIAN FOUNDATION of the EVRYTANIAN ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA 2015 Raffle Winners Congratulations to the winners of the 2015 Raffle of the Evrytanian Foundation. Grand Prize (Ticket # 037): $2, Mr. Constantine Panourgias, NY 2 nd Prize (Ticket #006): 1, Mr. & Mrs. V. Patsios Water Town, MA 3 rd Prize (Ticket #577): $ Peter Burlos, Charlotte, NC 183 raffle tickets were sold at 50/each. Many thanks to everyone who purchased raffle tickets. We very much appreciate your support helping those in great need. Ννκηθόο ζύκβνπινο ηνπ Γήκνπ Καξπελεζίνπ, ηνπ Θεξαπεπηεξίνπ Υξνλίσλ Παζήζεσλ Ν. Δπξπηαλίαο (Γεξνθνκείν) θαη πιεξεμνύζηα δηθεγόξνο ηεο Σξάπεδαο Δξγαζίαο - EUROBANK ERGASIAS A.E. Δθπιήξσζε ππνζέζεσλ πνπ ζρεηίδνληαη κε: Γηαρείξηζε πεξηνπζίαο, δηόξζωζε, έιεγρν θαη ηαθηνπνίεζε ηωλ πεξηνπζηαθώλ ζηνηρείωλ ζηελ Διιάδα Ταθηνπνίεζε θνξνινγηθώλ ππνρξεώζεωλ θαη εθπξνζώπεζε πειαηώλ ζε δηθαζηήξηα ζε όιε ηελ Διιάδα Γηόξζωζε ζθαικάηωλ θηεκαηνινγίνπ θαη παξάζηαζε ζε αγνξέο θαη πωιήζεηο ζε όιε ηελ Διιάδα

21 ΟΚΣΩΒΡΙΟ-ΓΔΚΔΜΒΡΙΟ 2015 «ΣΟ ΒΔΛΟΤΥΙ» 21 Velouchi Lifetime Members Commission Bronze Statue in Messolonghi The Entrance Gate of the Garden of Heroes of Messolonghi The beautiful, about 20 feet tall, bronze statue of Freedom that stands today in front of the Entrance Gate of the Garden of Heroes of the Iera Poli (Sacred City) of Messolonghi is just one of the many generous donations and outstanding services and projects that Mr. & Mrs. Jim and Helen Tasios of Winston- Salem, NC have provided so far to the Greek and American communities. This gorgeous sculpture is the creative work of the well-known Greek-Cypriot artist, Mr. Nikos Kotziamanis, who resides and works in London, England. Night photos of the bronze statue of Freedom. Pictured here is the artist Mr. Nikolaos Kontziamanis with his wife Veronica. Mr. & Mrs. Jim and Helen Tasios are lifetime members and strong financial supporters of the philanthropic goals of the Evrytanian Association of America Velouchi. Mr. Jim Tasios is currently serving as Vice President of the Velouchi s Evrytanian Foundation. Every year on the Saturday of Lazarus and Palm Sunday, the Iera Poli of Messolonghi and the whole nation honors the big sacrifice of the heroic Exodus of Messolonghi; the Greek State is represented by high-ranking officials and foreign countries by their ambassadors. In 2015, Mr. Kostas Kazakos (past Velouchi President), accompanied by his wife and other Velouchi members, traveled to Messolonghi on Palm Sunday to represent the sponsors of the Statue of Freedom, Mr. & Mrs. Jim Tasios, and made a speech on their behalf honoring all those who sacrificed their lives for freedom and inspiring people for freedom and peace around the world. The wellknown poet and academic Nikeforus Vretakos said: Everyone from around the nation must fervently and wholeheartedly congregate around Messolonghi with faith. The statue of Freedom, financed by Mr. & Mrs. Jim & Helen Tasios, took about 3 years to be built Remembering the Heroic Exodus of Messolonghi Messolonghi revolted on May 20, Messolonghi was a major stronghold of the Greek rebels and played an important role in the Greek War of Independence, being the seat of the Senate of Western Continental Greece. Its inhabitants were successfully resisting all sieges by Ottoman forces for the next four years. The final siege started on April 15, 1825 by Reşid Mehmed Pasha whose army numbered 30,000 men and was later reinforced by another 10,000 men led by Ibrahim Pasha, son of Muhammad Ali Pasha of Egypt. After a year of relentless enemy attacks and facing starvation, the people of Messolonghi decided to leave the beleaguered city in the "Exodus of its Guards" (The Sortie) on the night of April 10, At the time, there were 10,500 people in Messolonghi, 3,500 of those were armed. Very few people survived the Ottoman pincer movement after the betrayal of their plan. Perhaps Messolonghi fell but her history stands high and illuminates hearts throughout the ages of the free man. In the ensuing years, the town of Messolonghi produced 5 famous Prime Ministers, many people of history, many poets, artists and scientists, architects and literately men. It developed as tourist attraction being a town symbolizing freedom and a place where there were many memorials in the Garden of Heroes. The famous British poet and philhellene Lord Byron, who supported the Greek struggle for independence, died in Messolonghi in He is commemorated by a cenotaph containing his heart and a statue built by Mr. Kontziamanis is located in the town. Today, the Entrance Gate remains intact and so does part of the fortification of the Free Besieged which was rebuilt by King Otho (Βαζηιεύο Όζσλ). Past the gate, there is the Garden of Heroes where several famous, and some anonymous heroes who fought during the Heroic Sortie are buried. Also, our Evrytanian hero, Markos Botsaris, who fought and died for our independence in Kefalovrysso, Evrytania, is buried here in the Garden of Heroes. Mr. Kontziamanis has also built the statue of Markos Botsaris that was financed by Mr. & Mrs Jim & Helen Tasios to honor our Evrytanian hero. This magnificent statue is located in the National War Museum in Athens. The Garden of Heroes is the equivalent of the Elysian Fields for modern Greece. Outside the main gate, there is a sign which has the following written on it: Every Free Man is a Citizen of Messolonghi We are very proud of our members, Mr. & Mrs. Jim & Helen Tasios. We deeply appreciate their significant financial contributions, strong commitment, faith, love and great interest in such historic, religious and educational outstanding projects. Their life is a shining example for others to follow.