November/December «Φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, Ἑτοιμάσατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου» (Ματθ. Γ:3)

Transcript

1 November/December 2015 Page 1 «Φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, Ἑτοιμάσατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου» (Ματθ. Γ:3) A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRIEST In This Issue Priest s Message Stewardship 99th Dinner Dance Philoptochos News GOYA News PTO News Greek School News Sunday School News Our Faith Announcements Happy Thanksgiving Merry Christmas Dear Faithful of our beloved St. George, Our nation and the world continues to be on a heightened state of alert with all this terrorism we hear every day in the news. Many people are confused and frightened. In my younger years when I played sports, I remember my coach teaching us the greatest defense is a good offense. While this has great meaning in sports, it can also have meaning for us in faith. What is that we have to fear? Our biggest fear is our separation from God, which is sin, which is darkness, which is loneliness. As American citizens or those of us fortunate to live in this great country, we are afraid because we cannot move about with a feeling that we are safe and secure. How do we turn that feat into a form which deflects the evil of the world? The answer is right before us. It is up to us to be connected to God. This connection to God is our freedom from fear. Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits. Awake to righteousness, and do not sin (Cor. 15:33-34). I call to mind a part of a psalm that is recited during the Divine Liturgy. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer. We should all take this psalm and copy it and put it in a prominent place in our hearts. If the Lord is with us, then who can be against us? Let us all dear brethren come to understand that our greatest defense is our faith in God. This defense is then our offence when we confront difficult times and the evil of the world. In closing, let me share with you a part of a verse from St. Paul s letter to the Corinthians. Watch, stand fast in the faith, be strong, be brave. Let all that you do, be done with love (Cor. 16:13-14). With paternal love, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Pastrikos Αγαπητοί πιστοί του Αγίου Γεωργίου, Το έθνος μας και ο κόσμος εν γένει συνεχίζει να είναι σε καθεστώς επιφυλακής με όλες αυτές τις τρομοκρατικές ενέργειες που ακούμε καθημερινά. Πολύς κόσμος είναι φοβισμένος και συγχυσμένος. Στα νεότερά μου χρόνια, όταν έπαιρνα μέρος σε αθλήματα, θυμάμαι ότι ο προπονητής μας, μας έλεγε ότι η καλύτερη άμυνα είναι η επίθεση. Αυτό το σκεπτικό μπορεί κάλλιστα να εφαρμοστεί και στην πίστη. Τι είναι αυτό που φοβόμαστε; Ο μεγαλύτερος φόβος μας είναι η αποξἐνωση από το Θεό, η αμαρτία, το σκοτάδι, η μοναξιά. Ως Αμερικανοί πολίτες, ή ως πολίτες που έχουμε την τύχη να ζούμε σε αυτή τη σπουδαία χώρα, φοβόμαστε γιατί δε μπορούμε να ζούμε καθημερινά χωρίς το συναίσθημα ότι είμαστε ασφαλείς. Πώς μπορούμε να μετατρέψουμε αυτό το φόβο που αντανακλά το κακό στον κόσμο; Από εμάς εξαρτάται να συνδεθούμε με το Θεό. Μόνο έτσι θα ελευθερωθούμε από το φόβο. Μην απατάστε: «Το κακό διαφθείρει το καλό». Να είστε ενάρετοι και να μην αμαρτάνετε (Προς Κορ. 15:33-34). Σας υπενθυμίζω έναν ψαλμό: «Ο Κύριός μου είναι ο βράχος μου, το φρούριό μου και ο ποιμένας μου». Ας έχουμε αυτό τον ψαλμό στις καρδιές μας. Εάν έχουμε το Θεό στο πλάι μας, ποιος μπορεί να σταθεί εχθρός μας; Ας κατανοήσουμε όλοι ότι η καλύτερη άμυνά μας είναι η πίστη μας στο Θεό. Αυτή η άμυνα είναι η επίθεση που μπορούμε να κάνουμε ενάντια σε δύσκολους καιρούς και στο κακό. Κλείνοντας, θα μοιραστώ μαζί μας μία φράση από την επιστολή του Απ. Παύλου προς τους Κορινθίους: «Παρακολουθείστε, παραμείνετε πιστοί, μείνετε δυνατοί, μείνετε γενναίοι. Ο,τι πράττετε, να το κάνετε με αγάπη». Με πατρική αγάπη, Πατήρ Νικόλαος Παστρικός

2 Page 2 November/December 2015 ST. GEORGE GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑ ΑΓΙΟΥ ΓΕΩΡΓΙΟΥ Parish Ministries Reverend Father Nicholas Pastrikos, Priest Parish Council President George Zalokostas Vice President / Administration Lampros Ε. Bourodimos Vice President / Operations George Athanasopoulos Secretary Dimitra Bairaktaris Treasurer TBA Comptroller Peter Combates Members Demetrios Anastasatos Constantine Apostolakis Thomas Kalanekos Nicholas Koumarianos John Mellos John Millas Jerry Moschonas Perry Petsanas Mona Sarafoglu Dean Solomos The Voice of St. George Published bi-monthly by the St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1101 River Rd, Piscataway, NJ Tel.: Fax: sggoc@optonline.net Editor in Chief: Alexandra Avgitidis Committee Members: Katina Kehayas, Katerina Makridaki-Rompos. Periodical postage paid at Kilmer, NJ 08817, Permit # 379. The Voice of St. George is produced entirely in-house. Past issues can be found on the internet at Subscription is free for the members of St. George Greek Orthodox Church. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to St. George GOC, 1101 River Road, Piscataway, NJ Philoptochos Society - St. Barbara Virginia Theokas, President Maggie Stavrianidis, Vice President Eleni Andronikou, Rec. Secretary Kanella Anastasatos, Cor. Secretary Georgia Kouridakis, Treasurer Evangelia Manolakis, Asst. Treasurer Cantors and Choir Dimitrios Fousteris, Director Sunday School Lemonia Malahias Miko, Paul Stevens, Maggie Stavrianidis Greek School Panos Georgopoulos, Superintendent Toula Karamarkos, Principal Sofia Amaxopoulos, Teacher Katerina Kourti, Teacher Angeliki Papasavas, Teacher Chrisoula Plias, Teacher JOY/HOPE & Love & Faith Christina Heiden, Anna Lorino Church Organizations Church Committees GET INVOLVED Parent Teacher Organization Helen Sirimis, President Maria Petrou, Co-Vice President Maria-Regina Caputo - Co-Vice President Irene Drakopoulos, Treasurer Maria Kavouras, Secretary GOYA Nicollette Polos, Co-President Yiannis Apostolakis, Co-President Alexis Mangafas, Vice President Anastasia Kantilierakis, Corresp. Secr. Jason Stavrianidis, Rec. Secretary Gerasimos Georgopoulos, Treasurer Kristina Doninger, Historian GOYA Advisors Fotini Mangafas, Head Advisor Chrisoula DeLaurentis, Aliki Doninger, Evie Georgopoulos, Sandy Kalogridis, George Kostis, Rita Polos, Peter Sirimis, Effie Vlahos We need your help! Sign Up, Make a Difference, Have Fun! Call the Church Office Annual St. George Dinner Dance Bookmobile Capital Improvements Choir Elections Events/Fund Raising Greek Festival Greek Independence Day Parade Greek School Historic Committee House & Grounds To Our St. George Parishioners Insurance Library Memorial Fund Parking Rutgers New Parking Lot Public Relations Religious Artifacts Stewardship Sunday School Technology Services Voice of St. George The above ministries are the lifeblood of our parish and perform many activities to promote the growth of our church. Your participation in these organizations makes our community more spiritually complete.

3 November/December 2015 Page 3 ECCLESIASTICAL SCHEDULE OF SERVICES Matins 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Weekday Services 9 a.m. NOVEMBER Sunday 1 Saints Kosmas & Damian Sunday 8 Synaxis of the Archangels Sunday 15 8 th Sunday of Luke Saturday 21 Entry of the Theotokos Sunday 22 9 th Sunday of Luke Wednesday 25 Saint Catherine Sunday th Sunday of Luke Monday 30 Saint Andrew ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣΤΙΚΟ ΕΟΡΤΟΛΟΓΙΟ Όρθρος 9:00 π.μ. Θεία Λειτουργία 10:00 π.μ. Καθημερινές ώρες 9 π.μ. ΝΟΕΜΒΡΙΟΣ Κυριακή 1 Κοσμά & Δαμιανού των Ανάργυρων Κυριακή 8 Σύναξις Ταξιαρχών Μιχαήλ καί Γαβριήλ Κυριακή 15 Η Κυριακή του Λουκά Σάββατο 21 Εσόδια της Θεοτόκου Κυριακή 22 Θ Κυριακή Λουκά Τετάρτη 25 Αγίας Αικατερίνης Κυριακή 29 ΙΓ Κυριακή Λουκά Δευτέρα 30 Αγίου Ανδρέα Friday 4 Sunday 6 Saturday 12 Sunday 13 Sunday 20 Thursday 24 Friday 25 DECEMBER Saint Barbara Saint Nicholas Saint Spyridon 11 th Sunday of Luke Sunday before the Nativity of Christ Christmas Eve Nativity of Christ ΔΕΚΕΜΒΡΙΟΣ Παρασκευή 4 Αγίας Βαρβάρας Κυριακή 6 Αγίου Νικολάου Σάββατο 12 Αγίου Σπυρίδωνος Κυριακή 13 ΙΑ Κυριακή Λουκά Κυριακή 20 Κυριακή προ της Χριστού Γεννήσεως Πέμπτη 24 Παραμονή Χριστουγέννων Παρασκευή 25 Η Γέννησις του Χριστού Κυριακή 27 Αγίου Στεφάνου ST. GEORGE MEMORIAL FUND All donations to the Memorial Fund are greatly appreciated. As we all know, we have a beautiful Memorial Tree located in the Memorial Room of the Community Center. Anyone wishing to purchase a leaf ($350), a dove ($2,000), or a stone ($1,500) in memory of a loved one, May their memory be eternal, please contact either John Stroumtsos or Fr. Nick Pastrikos by calling the church office Baptisms OUR PARISH OUR PEOPLE Weddings August 30 October 4 Αθηνά Daugther of Maria & Michael Anthony Flores Godparent: Kyriaki Apostolakis Λουκάς Son of Niki & Arthur Brachowski Godparents: Nikolaos Kostopoulos & Christina Lavin September 13 Dimitri Giannios & Melissa Lauren Knez Koumbaroi: Vasiliki & Christos Andreadis September 27 Emmanuel Rodoussakis & Stephanie Pereira Koumbaros: Alexandros Trastelis October 11 September 15 September 30 October 15 Theodore Adamos & Maria Nikki Banis Koumbaroi: Chris & Maroulla Dallas Funerals May Their Memory Be Eternal Despina T. Danas George M. Boulegeris Thomas C. Alexander

4 Page 4 November/December 2015 ALTAR BOY GROUPS FORMED The Altar Boy groups for have been formed, but not closed! If your son would like to serve in the Altar and he is 10 years old or older, please let Fr. Nicholas know as soon as possible. Altar boys are required to be in the Altar on the Sundays that they are scheduled, no later than 10:10 a.m. All Captains are asked to be in the Altar a little earlier, by 10:00 a.m. to make sure that everything is ready to and to set instructions from Fr. Nicholas as to what will be happening for that day. As always, the appropriate dress code for all Altar boys that are serving, without exception is recommended: dress shirt, tie, dress socks and dress shoes. No one will be admitted in the Altar with a polo shirt, jeans, sneakers or boat shoes. All Altar boys, if they are not serving in the Altar, are required to be in Sunday School. This rule will be strictly adhered to, because attendance will be taken every Sunday for All Altar Boys. GROUP A Gerasimos Georgopoulos (Captain) Louis Kavouras (Captain) Dean Stavrianidis George DeLaurentis Seraphim Sirimis Demitri Hirshman Iacovos Georgiou Andreas Hadjiloucas GROUP B Jason Stavrianidis (Captain) Philip Catanzaro (Captain) Dino Zalokostas Vasilios Petrou Kyriakos Sirimis Demetrios Kontos Yianni Petrakis Julius Bourodimos Evangelos Kambitsis Andreas Apostolakis GROUP C Yianni Apostolakis (Captain) Christopher Henriquez (Captain) George Gianoukakis Konstantino Hantsoulis Apostolos Petsanas Nicholas Kehayas Gabriel Sirimis George Bizos Tasos Chronis GROUP D Konstantine Lyssikatos (Captain) George Wadsworth (Captain) Nicholas Koutsoubis Demetrios Gad Michael Gianoukakis Antonis Kalogridis Demetri Kalogridis John Kavouras Alexander Wadsworth ALTAR BOYS SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2015 Sunday, November 1 Group B Sunday, December 6 Group C Sunday, November 8 Group C Sunday, December 13 Group D Sunday, November 15 Group D Sunday, December 20 Group A Sunday, November 22 Group A Thursday, December 24 Group B (Christmas Eve) Sunday, November 29 Group B Friday, December 25 Group C (Christmas Day) Sunday, December 27 Group D

5 November/December 2015 Page 5 STEWARDSHIP Dear Faithful, Jesus said unto him Thou shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind (Matthew 22:37). God said it; Jesus reiterated it: Thou shalt love the Lord your God with all your heart. Thus, he binds us to Himself in the totality of out being. Everything comes under allegiance to Him, including what we do with our possessions. When we recognize this we will also recognize that what counts in our giving is not our share in the budget of the church, but God s share of our income. Systematic, proportionate giving is the only suitable way to do this. From this basis, let us worship the Lord with our love offerings. WHAT IS STEWARDSHIP ALL ABOUT? Our Stewardship program is a way for us as Orthodox Christians of St. George in Piscataway to meet our Church s obligations with responsibility, dignity and equity. Our Stewardship program is the only way to participate totally in the work and mission of the Church. Our Stewardship program is the only way through which the support of our Church becomes a matter of conscience instead of coercion. STEWARDSHIP REQUIREMENTS Any person can give any amount for Stewardship. However, to be considered a member in good standing, to participate in the sacraments of Baptism or Wedding, and to have one vote in the General Assembly, the following minimums must be met: $350 for single adult or husband and wife (age 18-64): one vote (if both the husband and wife pay $350); ($700 total, both can vote) $250 for a married senior couple (Age 65+): one vote (if both the husband and wife pay $200); ($400 total, both can vote) $200 for single senior and college student (age 18-24, must show proof of attending college full time) Greater than the required contributions: those who have been blessed financially, should consider a greater contribution. Our Stewardship program is the only way that considers the support of the Church as a personal obligation and a matter of commitment. Our Stewardship program is the only way our Church is able to meet the needs of its faithful now and in the future based purely on Christian principles. At the core of any stewardship program, are the Stewards of the Church. A good steward is neither a miser nor a spendthrift. A good stewards is not one who economizes but one who is a good manager of what has been entrusted to him. If we believe that we come into this world with nothing and leave this world with nothing then we must admit that all we have ruing our lifetime belongs to someone else. That someone is God - to whom belongs everything. We have only been entrusted with it to manage it here on earth to the best of our ability. A closer look at the parable of the talents tells us very clearly that a good manager and a good steward will earn both success on earth and favor with God. As members of our beloved St. George, we have, by our own choice, undertaken a responsibility to become managers or stewards of this Church and parish. That is, to love it, to care for it, to be concerned about it, to support it and promote its Christian work and mission. How well we accomplish these acts of Stewardship will determine our success as Christian Stewards. In order to successfully manage the spiritual and material aspects of this parish, we have to give of our time, our talents, and our material wealth. There is nothing else we can give. We must give enough of all these to assure the smooth operation of the parish, so the spiritual, educational, cultural, social and philanthropic needs of our parish are met. Please keep this article in mind when contemplating in becoming a Steward for May God bless you and yours with abundant health and spiritual prosperity for many years to come. Rev. Fr. Nicholas Pasrikos ΑΠΑΙΤΗΣΕΙΣ ΕΚΟΥΣΙΑΣ ΕΙΣΦΟΡΑΣ Ο καθένας μπορεί να προσφέρει ό,τι μπορεί. Όμως, για να θεωρηθείτε κανονικό μέλος, να μπορείτε να πάρετε μέρος στα Mυστήρια της Βάπτισης και του Γάμου και να έχετε δικαίωμα μίας ψήφου στην Γενική Συνέλευση, απαιτούνται οι κάτωθι ελάχιστες εισφορές: $350 ανά ανύπαντρο άτομο ή οικογένεια (18-64 ετών): μία ψήφος (εάν ο σύζυγος και η σύζυγος πληρώσουν $350 έκαστος (σύνολο $700) ψηφίζουν και οι δύο) $250 ανά ηλικιωμένο ζευγάρι (άνω των 65 ετών): μία ψήφος (εάν ο σύζυγος και η σύζυγος πληρώσουν $200 έκαστος (σύνολο $400), ψηφίζουν και οι δύο) $200 για μόνους ηλικιωμένους και φοιτητές (18-24 ετών, πρέπει να αποδείξουν ότι είναι φοιτητές): μία ψήφος Πέραν του καθορισμένου ποσού: όσοι έχουν ευλογηθεί με οικονομική ευχέρεια, θα πρέπει να προσφέρουν περισσότερο από ό,τι καθορίζεται ανωτέρω.

6 Page 6 November/December 2015 JOY & HOPE - LOVE & FAITH NEWS We are looking forward to a great year with Joy & Hope, as well as Love & Faith. To accommodate all of our young parishioners, and make it easier for families who have children of mixed ages, we have decided to run these programs together. All children up to 6 th grade will fit into this program. If you have older ones who want to join, we always welcome them to come and help with the activities. November 6 th Welcome: Join us at the church for question and answers about our religion. Later we will make a thanksgiving craft and play some games. Please bring a can of food to donate. Dec 13 th Christmas Celebration: Communion Breakfast In conjunction with the PTO celebration, please join us for breakfast, a craft and a surprise visit. Jan 8 th It s a Playdate! Get away from winter blues and meet up with some of your friends from the church. Location TBD (Tentative idea: Bounce Factory, Imagine That Museum, Roller Skating). Feb 5 th Share some Love: Come bake and decorate cookies for Valentine s day that will be shared with the local nursing home. March 19 th - Spring is coming. Join us for a fun day at the park and mini golfing. (TBD based on weather) Colonial Park - mini golf and park playdate April 17 th - Join us after church where Father Nick will tell the children about the Easter Holiday and Traditions. After we will decorate Easter eggs and there may even be a surprise visit. May 13 th - Church Cleanup and Plantings June (Date TBD) End of Year Picnic A formal evite will be send out before each program confirming the details. If you have not received an about this program, please reach out to Christen Heiden at spiro1478@gmail.com to be added to the distribution list. If you have any questions, please reach out to Christen Heiden at spiro1478@gmail.com (908) or Anna Lorino anna_lemberis@hotmail.com (732) U.S. ARMED FORCES As part of the 100th anniversary of our community the St. George Greek Orthodox Church is seeking to recognize and honor past/present people from our community who served in the U.S. armed forces. If you are among those, or are aware of anyone, please contact: Manny Manioudakis emanioudakis@verizon.net Phone: St. George Church Office sggoc@optonline.net Phone: RUTGERS PARKING SEASON Τα παιγνίδια ποδοσφαίρου του πανεπιστημίου Rutgers έχουν ήδη ξεκινήσει, και πάλι προσφέρουμε χώρο για στάθμευση αυτοκινήτων. Το επόμενο παιχνίδι είναι 14 Νοεμβρίου Χρειαζόμαστε εθελοντές για να βοηθήσουν για το παρκάρισμα των αυτοκινήτων. Έστω και μία ώρα από το χρόνο σας θα βοηθήσει το έργο μας και την Εκκλησία μας πάρα πολύ! Τηλεφωνήστε στο γραφείο της εκκλησίας στο για να δηλώσετε συμμετοχή. The Rutgers football season has already started and the next game of the season will be on Saturday, November 14, 2015, and again we will be parking cars in our lot. We need everyone to volunteer to help us park cars. Even if you come and help for an hour, this will help our mission and Church very much. Please call the Church Office at to register.

7 November/December 2015 Page 7 99TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER DANCE On October 17, 2015 we had our 99th Anniversary Dinner Dance at the AHEPA Hall of our Church and it was a great success! From the decorations, to the food, the music and excellent organization, everything went smoothly and our Honorees Mr. & Mrs. Kostas Hantsoulis had a great time! We are honored to have parishioners like Mrs. Vivi and Mr. Kostas in our Church, and we wish all the best to them and their beautiful family! Congratulations!!!

8 Page 8 November/December 2015 LADIES PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY ST. BARBARA The fall season is upon us, bringing with it the beauty of the changing leaves, cool weather and busy preparations for the holidays. Our first Philoptochos meeting was held on Tuesday evening, September 22 nd at 6 p.m. We fulfilled our National and Metropolis obligations as well as satisfying other appeals asked of us. Our next meeting was held on Saturday, October 17th at 11 a.m. in the Memorial Room. On Saturday, October 3rd, together with the Daughters of Penelope, and despite the inclement weather, 21 ladies and one gentleman travelled to The Holy Protection Monastery, Agia Skepi, in White Haven, PA. It was a wonderful, spiritual and enlightening experience for us all, especially for many who had never been there. The nuns gave us a tour and explanation of the beautiful church and icons and grounds and prepared a delicious lunch for us. We hopefully will take another trip to the Monastery in the spring. Collection for the Community Christmas Card will continue to take place after church in the AHEPA Hall until the end of November. We will be taking orders and selling spanakopites and baklava, which will be homemade by our ladies. Also, Christmas bread and Vasilopites will be sold in December. On Friday, December 4th we will be honoring our patron saint, Saint Barbara, with a Liturgy and Artoklasia. On Sunday, December 6th we will enjoy the annual Saint Barbara luncheon after Liturgy at a restaurant, with details to follow. The year 2016 is a very special and important milestone for our Saint George community. The 100 year celebration of our beloved Saint George Greek Orthodox Church will begin with many exciting activities and celebrations. The annual Vasilopita Celebration will be held on Sunday, January 10, 2016 with a luncheon held in the AHEPA Hall. This year we will be honored with the presence of the children of Saint Basil Academy joining us for this beautiful tradition. All proceeds will benefit and help the wonderful children of the academy. Please plan to join us in making this a truly special and memorable afternoon. We invite all the ladies of our community who are not yet members of our Philoptochos Society to join us. Our next meetings are scheduled for Saturday, November 21st at 11 a.m. and Wednesday, December 9th at 6 p.m. Hope to see you there! The Ladies Philoptochos Society invites you to attend ST. BARBARA S LUNCHEON Sunday, December 6, 2015 Έχει έρθει το φθινόπωρο, και ο Σύλλογός μας ετοιμάζει πολλές δραστηριότητες για όλους εσάς. Αρχικώς, η περισυλλογή δωρεών για την κοινοτική κάρτα θα συνεχιστεί μέχρι το τέλος Νοεμβρίου στην αίθουσα ΑΧΕΠΑ. Επίσης θα λαμβάνουμε παραγγελίες και θα πουλάμε χειροποίητες σπανακόπιτες και μπακλαβά. Επιπλέον, θα πουλάμε βασιλόπιτες και τσουρέκια τον Δεκέμβριο. Την Παρασκευή, 4 Δεκεμβρίου θα τιμήσουμε την προστάτιδά μας Αγία Βαρβάρα, με λειτουργία και αρτοκλασία. Την Κυριακή 6 Δεκεμβρίου, θα απολαύσουμε το ετήσιο γεύμα μας για την Αγία Βαρβάρα σε εστιατόριο που θα σας ανακοινώσουμε λίαν συντόμως. Το 2016 θα γιορτάσουμε την 100η επέτειο του αγαπημένου μας Αγίου Γεωργίου, και θα ξεκινήσουμε αυτή την εορταστική χρονιά στις 10 Ιανουαρίου με ένα γεύμα στην αίθουσα ΑΧΕΠΑ. Φέτος θα έχουμε την τιμή να παρευρεθούν τα παιδιά της Ακαδημίας του Αγίου Βασιλείου. Όλα τα έσοδα θα δοθούν για να βοηθήσουν αυτά τα θαυμάσια παιδιά. Όσες κυρίες δεν έχετε ακόμα γραφτεί ως μέλη, μπορείτε να το κάνετε και τώρα. Είστε όλες ευπρόσδεκτες! Σας περιμένουμε στην επόμενη συνάντησή μας το Σάββατο 21 Νοεμβρίου στις 11π.μ. ή την Τετάρτη 9 Δεκεμβρίου στις 6 μ.μ. BAKLAVA AND SPANAKOPITA SALE November 21st and 22nd Place your orders early! Koula Athanasopoulos, or Niky Gerondelis, Christmas Bread sold Dec. 19 & 20 Vasilopites sold December 27 V A S I L O P I T A C E L E B R A T I O N Following the Divine Liturgy on January 10, 2016, the annual luncheon and cutting of the Vasilopita will take place in the AHEPA Hall. We will be honored with the presence of the children of Saint Basil Academy. Let us all attend this traditional event as a family and make it a special and beautiful day for the children of the academy. You may also make a donation by mailing a check payable to: Saint Barbara Philoptochos Society with a notation Vasilopita. Mail to: Saint Barbara Philoptochos Society - Vasilopita 1101 River Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854

9 November/December 2015 Page 9 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD 2015 Dear St. George Parishioners: We are rapidly approaching that time of the year when the Philoptochos will prepare the St. George Community Christmas Card which will be mailed to ever y member of our par ish and which will carr y our holiday greetings to all our parishioners. This Community Christmas Card becomes possible through your donations. However, not only does your donation extend holiday greetings to all but, more importantly, it is used for the much needed assistance to the needy of our community. Your contribution truly represents the Christian spirit of helping those in need. And so we ask you, once again, to give your donation to the Needy Cases Fund. In so doing, you will be helping those in need and you will be assuring that your name will be included on the Community Christmas Card. You may give your donation by filling in the for m below and br inging it to the church or by mailing it to PHILOPTOCHOS, c/o St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1101 River Road, Piscataway, NJ Please make checks payable to the ST. GEORGE NEEDY CASES FUND. To assure that your name is included on the Christmas Card, your contribution must be received no later than November 22, The names of contributors received after November 23rd will be listed in the January church bulletin. In addition, if you are employed by a company that participates in a Gift Matching Program, please bring the necessary forms so we may benefit from this program. Obtain a gift matching form from your personnel office, complete the employee s section and bring the form to us. We ll do the rest. Thank you and God Bless you always, NEEDY FUND COMMITTEE Detach and return the form below with your donation no later than Sunday, November 22, ============ ========================================================================== I would like to participate in the ST. GEORGE NEEDY CASES FUND. Enclosed you will find my donation for $. Please list my name on the Christmas Card as follows: Name: Address: Telephone Number: PARTICIPATE IN THE UNITED WAY PROGRAM! It s that time of the year when corporate management will be asking their employees to participate in the 2015/2016 United Way program. Consequently, since our parishioners are participants in that program, we ask that they and their many friends consider our St. George Needy Cases Fund be earmarked for their contribution. In the past sever al years the St. Geor ge Needy Cases Fund has benefited dramatically and this has allowed the Philoptochos to assist those in need. The Ladies Philoptochos Society extends its appreciation and thanks to our many St. George parishioners who have taken the initiative to arrange for their United Way deductions to be sent to the St. George Needy Cases Fund. We are most grateful to all for their continued support. Remember to direct your United Way donation to the St. George Needy Cases Fund United Way Reference Number

10 Page 10 November/December 2015 G.O.Y.A. GREEK ORTHODOX YOUTH ASSOCIATION The start of a new year can be pretty hectic, especially with school and G.O.Y.A. But as a dedicated group of kids, we seem to make it work. Though the year just began, we have already had events, with more events to come! On Sunday, September 13 th we had our first day back as Goyans. Following church services we had the Installation of Officers for the upcoming year as well as an Artoklasia. We held our 1 st Goya Mtg and welcomed new and existing goyans and their families. On September 19th, 12 of our GOYAns attended St. Basil s Academy Walk-A-Thon. It was a beautiful day to have a walk especially for such a good cause! Despite the fact that it was freezing cold on September 27th, four of our very own GOYAns dove for the cross at Asbury Park. Though our church didn t receive the cross this year, congratulations to our Sr. Girl Diver (Nicolette Polos), Sr. Boy Diver (Konstantine Lyssikatos), Jr. Girl Diver (Angela Polos), and Jr. Boy Diver (Dean Stavrianidis) for representing St. George. On October 11th was the Mr. & Miss GOYA Pageant. Representing our church were Nicolette Polos and Gerasimos Georgopoulos! Gerasimos won 1st Place Mr. GOYA 2015 and Nicole won 4th Place Miss GOYA Congratulations to both! Our GOYA will be hosting a religious retreat called Hallelujah Night. All GOYAns are welcomed to join us on October 30th. During Hallelujah Night, we will have church services, watch a movie and will also host a speaker. This is a lock-in event where we will also begin our Big Brother - Big Sister Program. The Big Brother - Big Sister Program is something new that we have started. It will help the newer/ younger GOYAns make friends, participate in all our events and ask questions whenever they need help. Due to inclement weather, our Gyro Sale Fundraiser was rescheduled to Sunday, November 1st. All GOYAns are welcome to help make and sell gyros. We encourage everyone to come and help support the GOYA after church services! Towards the end of November, we will be having our annual Taverna Night. It will be held on November 21st at our church. Respectfully Submitted, Kristina Doninger, Historian

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12 Page 12 November/December 2015 P.T.O. PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION Dear Parents, We would like to remind you, the PTO is a parent volunteer organization that supports the school by organizing volunteers for various programs and by providing financial assistance through fundraising for enrichment programs and other items not available through school funds. As the parent/guardian of a St. George student, you are asked to support the PTO by attending the meetings to be announced by Upcoming Events: Bake Sale November 8th after Divine Liturgy in the Ahepa Hall. Please stop by and purchase a delicious dessert. Also if you would like to bake and donate for bake sale please contact the PTO at stgpto@optonline.net. Christmas Communion Breakfast and Christmas Tree Lighting December 13th after Divine Liturgy in the AHEPA hall. If you would like to volunteer to assist for this event we need help in photographing families, aiding the children with the crafts, fruit juice and paper goods donation, setting up and serving food. The children will be decorating a tree and there will be a surprise guest as well. We welcome all families to attend this event. Please consider volunteering your time and talent to the PTO. If each St George family volunteered for one event or activity it would spread the work load of this wonderful organization and make it more manageable, enjoyable and successful for everyone. New ideas and suggestions are always welcome! Teach your children by example - be involved! We can't do it without you! PTO Executive Board Officers: Helen Sirimis, President Maria Regina Caputo, Co-Vice President Maria Kavouras, Secretary Irene Drakopoulos, Treasurer PTO address: stgpto@optonline.net Thank You!! St. George PTO PTO Christmas Communion Breakfast and Christmas Tree Decoration The St. George PTO invites you to a morning of joy with our families. Please join us in the AHEPA Hall for our annual lighting of the tree and breakfast on Sunday, December 13, 2015 following the Divine Liturgy. Join us for a festive morning featuring: The PTO will help all the children decorate the St. George Christmas Tree. Join us to make decorations for our Christmas Tree as well as other holiday crafts with Joy and Hope, Love and Faith. Professional photographer will be available to take your pictures. Part of the proceeds will go to PTO. Also the PTO will be collecting unwrapped new toys or $5 gift cards for under privileged families in the area. A special surprise guest for all the children!

13 November/December 2015 Page 13 SUNDAY SCHOOL Dear Parents and Members of our St. George Community, On behalf of Father Nicholas and the Catechism staff, we would like to thank you for your support in providing an Orthodox Christian foundation of faith and values to our children. We are very proud of our Catechism program, and our volunteer staff. We want to express our deep gratitude to all our staff members for their efforts, dedication and perseverance. The curriculum we follow each Sunday was developed by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Department of Religious Education. It is accompanied with participation in our Divine Liturgy and liturgical Father Nicholas with Mrs. Meropi Martini (lead teacher of 10-12th grade class) hymnology, and involvement in charity projects that are organized throughout the year. I would like to present you our Catechism staff. You will note that we are in need of teacher assistants. If you are interested in volunteering your time or talents, you Photograph of our students from the 10-12th grades with Father Nicholas and George P. Father Nick received a beautiful Pittsburg Steelers blanket made by these loving students!! may us at lmalahias@yahoo.com or speak to any one of us on Sunday morning. Please know that you do not have to be a teacher nor have an expertise in our Orthodox faith; you just need a loving heart, a love for God and a love of children. Respectfully in Christ St. George Catechism Staff Cradle Responsible Open First Grade Mary Christodoulou Marigoula Keller Assistants Evangelia Makropoulos Sofia Feggulis Fifth Grade Maria Petrou Georgia Papanastasiou Assistant Jason Stavrianidis 10 th, 11 th and 12 th Peter Combates Meropi Martini Nursery : Chrisoula Kalogridis Anna Kalogridakis Assistant Syndie Vaskopoulos (Nursery/Pre- K) Pre-Kindergarten Naomi Bourodimos Helen Sirimis Assistant Open Kindergarten Georgia Lambros Lea Petsanias Assistant Ellie Patsakou Second Grade Georgia Preite Zoe Makropoulos Louisa Sirimis Third Grade Irene Rompos Evangelia Kontos Assistants Nicolette Garthe Kyra Sirimis Fourth Grades Sandy Kalogridis Eleni Apostolakis Assistant Nicolette Polos Sixth Grade Maggie Stavrianidis Theodore Vaskopoulos Assistant Open Seventh Grade Maria Boyiadjis Athinoula Bizos Assistant Open Eighth and Ninth Grades Maria Demos Maggie Stavrianidis Lemonia Malahias Miko Assistant Open Music Teacher Louise Lambros Support Staff Overall Administrator Paul Stevens Treasurer Georgia Peterson Administration Ted Lambros Georgia Peterson Safety Peter Sirimis Scholarships Malvina Wilkins Mary Boulageris Georgia Peterson Maria Regina Caputo

14 Page 14 November/December 2015 ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΟ ΣΧΟΛΕΙΟ GREEK SCHOOL Αγαπητοί Γονείς, Καλωσορίσατε και φέτος στο σχολείο μας. Ευχόμαστε σε όλα τα παιδιά καλή σχολική χρονιά και καλή πρόοδο. Τα μαθήματα του Ελληνικού Σχολείου άρχισαν στις 14 Σεπτεμβρίου. Την ημέρα αυτή, ο πάτερ Νικόλαος έκανε αγιασμό για τα παιδιά, τις δασκάλες και τους γονείς και αφού μίλησε για την σημασία του Ελληνικού σχολείου και των ελληνικών γραμμάτων και φώτισε όλους τους παρευρισκόμενους, στην συνέχεια αγίασε όλες τις τάξεις του σχολείου. Παρ όλο που τα μαθήματα έχουν αρχίσει, υπάρχει καιρός ακόμη να γράψετε τα παιδιά σας στο σχολείο μας και να τους δώσετε την ευκαιρία να μάθουν την ωραία ελληνική μας γλώσσα, τα ήθη, τα έθιμα, την ένδοξη Ιστορία και τον πολιτισμό της Ελλάδας. Θα χαρούμε πάρα πολύ έστω και λίγο αργά να δούμε αυτά τα παιδιά στο σχολείο μας. Το σχολείο λειτουργεί από Δευτέρα έως Παρασκευή από τις 4:30 μ.μ μέχρι τις 6:30 μ.μ και οι μαθητές κάθε τάξης παρακολουθούν μαθήματα μόνον μια μέρα την εβδομάδα. Επίσης το σχολείο μας λειτουργεί κάθε Τετάρτη από 6:30 μ.μ μέχρι 8:30 μ.μ για τα Regents. Εφέτος το βραβείο από την Αρχιεπισκοπή για τα Regents το πήρε ο Γιώργος Μπίζος. Του ευχόμαστε συγχαρητήρια και εις Ανώτερα. Τώρα ετοιμαζόμαστε να γιορτάσουμε την 28η Οκτωβρίου και την γιορτή του Αγίου Δημητρίου με σχετικά μαθήματα, εργασίες και απαγγελίες ποιημάτων από μαθητές και μαθήτριες στην εκκλησία μας μετά την Θεία Λειτουργία. Θα θέλαμε να ευχαριστήσουμε όλους τους γονείς, που με κόπους και θυσίες φέρνουν τα παιδιά τους στο σχολείο για την ωραία συνεργασία που έχουμε μαζί τους. Επίσης, θα θέλαμε να ευχαριστήσουμε τις ακούραστες κυρίες του P.T.O που μας είχαν έτοιμο όλο το υλικό του σχολείου. Ευχόμαστε και πάλι σε όλα τα παιδιά υγεία και καλή πρόοδο στην καινούργια σχολική χρονιά. Με τον ερχομό της γιορτής των Ευχαριστιών και των Χριστουγέννων, σας ευχόμαστε να περάσετε αυτές τις μεγάλες γιορτές με υγεία, χαρά και ευτυχία. Με εκτίμηση, Οι Δασκάλες του Ελληνικού Σχολείου Dear Parents, Welcome to the new school year! We wish everyone a productive and successful school year. Classes in our Greek School began on September 14. On this day, Father Nicholas blessed the children, the teachers and the parents and after he talked about the importance of Greek School and Greek letters, he blessed all the classrooms. Although classes have already started, there is still time to enroll your children in our Greek School and give them the opportunity to learn the Greek language, traditions, customs and the glorious history of Greece. We will be happy to see them enrolled in our school. Classes are held in our school Monday to Friday from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The students of each grade attend class only once a week. Please, note that every Wednesday from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Prep class is held for the Regents Exam. This year s winner of the Archdiocese Regents award is George Bizos. We congratulate him for his success and wish him the best in his future endeavors. We would like to take the opportunity to thank all the parents for the time and effort to bring their children to school and for their cooperation. Furthermore, we would like to express our gratitude to the members of the P.T.O for providing us with the necessary school supplies. Once again, we wish all our children every success for the new school year. With the coming of Thanksgiving and Christmas, we wish everyone to enjoy these great Holidays with Health, Joy and Happiness. Sincerely, The of the Greek School

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16 Page 16 November/December 2015 We have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship Him. (Matthew 2:2) OUR FAITH Η ΘΡΗΣΚΕΙΑ ΜΑΣ With these words the Magi explained to the bewildered people of Jerusalem their burning desire to know where the newborn King was to be found. From afar, across desert and mountain, they came, not at the bidding of a prophet, not in response to Scripture, not in obedience to a dream or ecstatic vision. It was a single star that brought them, leading them westward from palaces of glory to a humble stable in Bethlehem of Judea. Thus began in Bethlehem the reunification of the human race. Age-old divisions melt away under the light of the Star of Bethlehem. Rich and poor come together in worship, educated and illiterate, young and old, male and female, Jews and Gentiles, saints and sinners, angels and humans and even beasts of the field. All creation pauses to bask in the joy of the moment, to bow down and worship the incarnate Son of God. Brothers and Sisters in Christ we are called to be the Christmas star. We, who have basked in the healing rays of the sun of Righteousness, who have tasted the joy of His Kingdom we are called to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14), leading those around us to the knowledge of our Incarnate Lord. Ours is the task of pointing our fellow men to Jesus Christ. Quietly, patiently, like that bright star of old, we endeavor to bring together people of every nation and race and station to the manger of Bethlehem, where the Newborn Savior, is waiting to give light to those in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:7-9). May the light, the peace and the joy of Christmas be with homes and families today, and in the dawning New Year, and always as you worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE At the District Convention this past June, our Chapter, Tethys #229, was again voted BEST LARGE CHAPTER in our District. Congratulations to all our Sisters who worked very hard and a heartfelt Thank you! Also, Congratulations to Sister Evangeline Emanuel who was selected as Penelope of the Year.. This year the Daughters of Penelope will be selling commemorative ornaments celebrating the 100 th anniversary of our beloved St. George community. Look for our display! SAVE THE DATE: Friday, December 4, 2015 for our SURPRISE EVENT. More information will follow

17 November/December 2015 Page 17 THANKSGIVING Before we know it, Thanksgiving will be here. Before time gets the best of us, let us make some reflection and preparation for this important day. Since childhood, we have trained to say thank you when something is given to us or done to us. Though it is meant to come from our hearts, it often becomes a mechanical response: very empty of meaning and sincerity. Let us all be careful of this in life and on Thanksgiving Day in particular. Let us make Thanksgiving Day truly a day upon which we give thanks. It is not "turkey day" as many call it. Let us be sure to keep thankfulness in Thanksgiving Day and make it a day in which we will echo the words of Psalm 67, "that God has been gracious and thusly is due a hymn of thanksgiving. I would like to wish all of my St. George faithful a very blessed Thanksgiving Day. Let us take the time and meditate on the Greatness of our Lord and Savior and Praise Him, for His Gift of Love and His many blessings. May we keep in mind those who are poor and less fortunate and express our love and concern for them through our benevolent actions. Πριν το καταλάβουμε έφθασε κι αυτή η όμορφη ημέρα. Ας ετοιμαστούμε λοιπόν. Από μικρά παιδιά μας μαθαίνουν να λέμε «ευχαριστώ» όταν μας δίνουν κάτι. Και παρ όλο που πρέπει να έρχεται από καρδιάς, τις περισσότερες φορές το ευχαριστώ έρχεται αυτόματα, χωρίς αίσθημα. Ας δώσουμε σημασία σ αυτήν την σπουδαία ημέρα. Δεν είναι «ημέρα της γαλοπούλας» όπως πολλοί την αποκαλούν, είναι ημέρα που στο μυαλό μας πρέπει να φέρνει τον 67 ον ψαλμό που λέγει: «Ο Θεός είναι αγαθός και του πρέπουν ύμνοι και ευχαριστίες». Εύχομαι σε όλους τους πιστούς του Αγίου Γεωργίου «Καλή Ημέρα των Ευχαριστιών». Ας προσευχηθούμε στον Μεγάλο Θεό και Σωτήρα μας και ας Τον δοξάζουμε για το δώρο της αγάπης και για όλες τις ευλογίες Του. Ας μην ξεχνάμε τους φτωχούς και δυστυχισμένους που χρειάζονται την βοήθεια μας. CHRISTMAS The Giving of Gifts is an important part of our observance of the Nativity of our Lord. One of the main hymns of the Church for this great Feast Day which is sung during Vespers, deals with this exact matter of gift giving. It says, "What shall we bring you O Christ when you were born and put on this earth for our sakes. For each creature created by you has brought you forth their thanks; the Angels with their songs, the Heavens with the stars, the Magi their gifts, the Shepherds their Wonder, the Earth a cave, the wilderness the Manger. But we, the Virgin Mother. These same sentiments are also expressed in the icon of the Nativity. The Angelic choir proclaims glory to God and peace to men of good will. The Heavens open to let a star pierce the darkness of earth and point its fingers of light to the Newborn King, the Shepherds wonder at the miracle that has come to pass, the Earth offers the Cave, a bleak wound in the land symbolizing the sin that engulfs mankind, the Wilderness offers its refuse where man can come and feed on the Bread of Life... But we? Well, Humanity offers the Mother, flesh of our flesh, bone of our bone, the one full grace and faith, the Handmaiden of God who accepts His will and becomes the Temple for the Only-Begotten Son of God. To all this the icon adds the presence of Joseph who will care for the child. In the center of the icon is the Christ-Child, born in a type of tomb, wrapped in swaddling clothes that are not unlike the garments of burial. Yes, even in birth we are reminded of the destiny that awaits the Lord: to die that we might live. Soon, my friends, we will be celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many gifts will be given as an expression of our love and affection. Acting in the same spirit, it is only fitting and proper to remember Christ, whose birthday we celebrate on Christmas Day. Our Church, the house of God, is our Home as well as our spiritual refuge where we receive His Heavenly Blessings in ample abundance at every Divine Liturgy. Please remember to set aside a gift for your church during this very important Holiday, and send it whenever you can. Our Lord will bless you ABUNDANTLY FOR IT!!! ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ

18 Page 18 November/December 2015 Thanksgiving Day Liturgy on Thursday, November 26th Dear Faithful, Thursday, November 26th, Thanksgiving, is a day especially set aside to thank our most gracious and generous Lord for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us as a Nation. God has blessed us with a wondrous country, to which we should be very appreciative and thankful for. And for us Greeks and our background, we should be grateful and very thankful for the many blessings and opportunities God has given us here in America, knowing fully well that none of these opportunities would have been possible for us if we were still living in Greece. And so again, we will be celebrating a Divine Liturgy on Thanksgiving Day, beginning with a 9:00 a.m. orthros and 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy, to praise God and to give Him our heartfelt thanks for what He has done for us. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National Shrine The St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National Shrine being built at the World Trade Center will be a house of worship for the Greek Orthodox Community and a place of prayer and solace for all people. As part of a national initiative to support St. Nicholas, Philoptochos is asking for a $100 donation from each member, or any amount higher or lower that you are able to give, to collectively support our chapter goal of $10, Philoptochos board members will begin to reach out to members individually, and we of course welcome and encourage donations from non-members. Please ask a member of the Philoptochos to learn more.

19 THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT November/December 2015 Page 19 TRACK SIDE LIMO & TAXI Serving all of Somerset & Middlesex Counties, NJ Low Rates - 24 hr Service Van Service for Large Groups Special Rates for Airports We Go Anywhere GEORGE ATHANASOPOULOS AND ANDREAS ATHANASOPOULOS Call: Toll Free All major Credit Cards Accepted David Basile S M I L E 540 Bound Brook Rd Middlesex, NJ, Call: (732) Rt 27, Ste 101 Kendall Park, NJ, Call: (732) Dr. Kosmas Kasimatis 900 Easton Avenue, Suite 31 Somerset, New Jersey (732) Allstate Insurance Company

20 Page 20 November/December Non-Profit Org U.S. POSTAGE Paid New Brunswick, N.J. Permit No. 379 S A I N T G E O R G E G R E E K O R T H O D O X C H U R C H 1101 River Road Piscataway, NJ ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Phone: sggoc@optonline.net WE RE IN COLOR ON THE WEB! STGEORGEPISCATAWAY.ORG Have a Wonderful Holiday Season Καλές Γιορτές We keep trying to improve The Voice of St. George and we welcome your comments and suggestions. We cannot do it without your help. Our is voicestgeorge@optonline.net. The Voice is produced entirely by volunteers but, still, we are responsible and apologize for any omissions, delays, and imperfections associated with this and any other issue. Please help us make the next one better. Συνεχίζουμε τις προσπάθειες μας για συνεχή βελτίωση του δελτίου μας. Προτάσεις και υποδείξεις, για το πως να κάνουμε αυτό το δελτίο πιο χρήσιμο είναι πάντα ευπρόσδεκτες. Το δελτίο αυτό είναι μεν αποτέλεσμα εθελοντικής εργασίας, είμαστε όμως υπεύθυνοι και ζητούμε συγγνώμη για όποιες καθυστερήσεις, παραλείψεις, ή λάθη αναπόφευκτα γίνονται. Ζητούμε την κατανόηση σας και την βοήθεια σας να κάνουμε το επόμενο τεύχος καλύτερο. Το ηλεκτρονικό μας ταχυδρομείο είναι voicestgeorge@optonline.net. If you want your business and/or professional skills to be seen by hundreds of families in your area as well as online at our Church website, don t wait: Call now at and place your advertisement! The rates apply for both paper and online advertisement! ADVERTISE WITH US sggoc@optonline.net PRICE LIST 2015 BUSINESS CARD: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ /4 OF A PAGE: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ /2 OF A PAGE: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ FULL PAGE: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $ ISSUES CONTRACT: $1,350.00