Oli Mazi 2013

oli
13
mazi
Your guide to faith" dance" and
fellowship for FDF ()%#
FDF Goes
Global
Visitors from
Brazil & Cyprus
!
In Memoriam
Donald K' Hiatt
%%
Metropolis of
SF Youth
Ministries
Summer Camp"
Oratorical Festival" and
more!
%&
Schedules
Weekend"
Competition" &
Workshop
#$
contents
management team
Christine Alexopoulos
Managing Director
Message from #His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios
Alex Schwenke
Director of Operations
Message from #HIs Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos
Ven Stathopoulos
Registration
Inspire!
#Fr! Gary Kyriacou
)
Welcome
FDF Board of Trustees & Management Team
*
Welcome to International Guests
Neolea of Sao Paulo$ Brazil
Giorgos Alexandrakis Dance Studio
+
Alexandra Guirgus
Registration
Evangelia Gryparis
Registration
Zoe Kaplanis
Registration
Alexandra Scuro
Events
Danielle Doumak
Events
Special Award Recipients
((
Maro Tsigarida
Events
Metropolis of San Francisco Youth & Young Adult Ministries
Paul Gikas
(+
Samantha Demetriou
Events
Connecting to Our Church%s Youth
Fr! Jason Roll
(.
Anysia Dumont
Workshops
Rising to the Challenge: Southern California GOYA Retreat
(/
Vaso Rahimzadeh
Workshops
&'() St! John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival
(,
Voula Kolios
Director of Competition
Love One Another
Metropolis Summer Camp at St! Nicholas Ranch
(-
Anthony John
Competition
Workshops &'()
Anysia Dumont & Vaso Rahimzadeh
&(
Christine Karambelas
Competition
Bringing the Village to You: Musician Biographies
&&
Metropolis of San Francisco Philoptochos: Beacons of Faith$
Hope$ and Love
Jeannie Ranglas
&)
The Best Summer of Your Life
Christina Loridas
&*
Vasili Dikeakos
Competition
Spotlight on Diakonia
Aristoforoi & Mikra Ftera$ Holy Trinity San Francisco
&+
George Mitsopoulos
Director of Security
Judge Biographies
&/
Manoli Rodarakis
Director of Logistics
Lessons for Life: Greek Dance$ FDF$ & Skills for Success
Aris Yortzidis
)'
John Zoumberakis
Logistics
Weekend$ Competition$ & Workshop Schedules
)*
George Plumis
Competition
Katherine Dikeakos
Competition
Krstina Plumis
Competition
Oli Mazi is the publication of this dynamic ministry to inform its stakeholders of news and updates
related to the program and its annual event! Please visit us on the web at: www!yourfdf!org
,
-
Metropolis Initiates Strategic Planning Process
In Memoriam: Donald K! Hiatt
Anne Gani Sirota
Maria Vorgias
Events
The Greek Orthodox Folk Dance & Choral Festival Ministry is dedicated$ through Orthodox
Christian Fellowship and committed leadership$ to promoting$ encouraging and perpetuating the
Orthodox faith$ Greek heritage and culture among individuals$ families and communities by
expressing it through folk dance$ folk art$ music and language!
(
&
Paul Mantas
Logistics
Spero Mantas
Logistics
Yianni Magoulias
Logistics
Taki Vathis
Meals
board of trustees
His Eminence
Metropolitan
Gerasimos
Executive Chairman
Fr! Gary Kyriacou
Chairman
Spiro Beckas
Vice"Chairman
Michael Syrengelas
Finance
John Boudouvas
Marketing
Katia Boudouvas
Operations
Christa Barbas
Judge Coordinator
George Demos
Endowment
Vickie Demos
Scholarships
Eleni Beckas
Secretary & Vendors
Kathy Loukatos"Meck
Choral
John Buzas
Legal Consultant
Fr! John Hondros
Liturgics
Fr! Christos Kanakis
Diakonia Projects
Fr! Bob Fox
Symposia
Paul Gikas
Youth Director
Nick Metrakos
VIP Liaison
Oli Mazi Editor
Message from His
Eminence Archbishop
Demetrios of America
Message from His Eminence
Metropolitan Gerasimos of
San Francisco
February 14, 2013
!Holy Father Auxentius of the Mountain
February 14, 2013
!Holy Father Auxentius of the Mountain
Your Eminence and Beloved Brother in Christ,
Beloved Faithful in the Lord,
It is with particular joy that I extend to you my greetings and heartfelt best wishes as you gather for
the 2013 Greek Orthodox Folk Dance and Choral Festival of the Metropolis of San Francisco.
“Good actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others.”
Each dance group serves as a symbol of the vibrancy of the youth of the blessed Metropolis of San
Francisco and a metaphor for the growth and advancement of Orthodoxy across the oecumene.
These words from the renowned Greek philosopher Plato illustrate the core of this year’s FDF
theme: Inspire. FDF has inspired generations of commitment to our faith and culture. The diakonia
of our youth has inspired the desire to serve others. The youth of our church are an inspiration for the
future.
I hope and pray that the steps in the dancers’ lives reflect always true strength in faith and proclaim
the victorious message of salvation rooted in the living reality of the Resurrection of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ.
With my best wishes for a memorable Dance Festival and my prayers that God grant you many more
years of being united in love and fellowship, and connected through celebration and song in the
shared journey of our precious faith and culture, I remain,
With love and esteem in Christ,
Plato
The 37th Annual Folk Dance and Choral Festival in Anaheim, California promises to be an
inspirational weekend where we will celebrate the achievements of each and every dancer and singer
who have demonstrated their commitment and love for FDF. People from around the globe have
come to be a part of this exceptional ministry and I know that you will welcome them with Christian
love. As you enjoy this weekend of faith, dance and fellowship, please keep these words of Saint
Paul close to your heart: “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in
word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity,” I Timothy 4:12.
I know this weekend will be filled with the abundant blessings of Our Lord, and that the bonds of
friendship and Christian fellowship amongst all those gathered will be strengthened by the love of
Jesus Christ. May you always be inspired to serve the Lord with joy and may your commitment to
the Orthodox faith and Hellenic culture always emulate His love!
With Love in Christ,
! DEMETRIOS
Archbishop of America
!Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco
!
"
Inspire!
welcome
Fr# Gary Kyriacou$ FDF Chairman
Board of Trustees & Management Team
Inspiration is all around us# We can be
inspired by a painting$ sunset$ song$
sermon$ book or movie#
We use
inspiration for motivation to study$
compete$ or to get us through di%cult
situations# Inspiration can come from our
faith and from other people# We all draw
on di&erent sources of inspiration and
sometimes$ by the grace of God$ we are an
inspiration to others around us#
In the etymology of the
word 'inspire$( we )nd a
link to the word spirit# In
Lat i n s p i r i t i s b e tte r
understood as 'to breathe
life into( or 'to animate(#
We chose the theme
inspire for this year*s
G re e k O rt h o d o x Fo l k
Dance and Choral Festival$
so each of you$ whether
director$ dancer$ or
spectator$ might take a
moment to consider what
animates or breathes life
into you?
Inspiration can have impressive cumulative
e&ects# Last year$ Long Beach directors Olivia &
Nick Varonos and Christina Batsakis of Mikra
Asteria provided inspiration by encouraging a
very special performance and a very special
young lady# Christa Demos privately coached
and prepared Evi Mentzelos to perform at FDF#
As most of us take our physical coordination
for granted$ Evi struggles to walk$ yet she
moved many to tears with her joyful
performance#
E v i *s
determination and participation
inspired the crowd because
Christa and her directors were
determined to inspire Evi#
Again$ inspiration comes from
experiences away from the
stage# St# Spyridon in San Diego
found itself one dancer short as
George Terris was sidelined with
a cancer diagnosis# Even with
his diagnosis$ George persisted
Then God formed man out of dust and attended FDF# He inspired
from the ground, and breathed in his
face the breath of life; and man his community and they inspired
us as they proudly displayed
became a living soul. Genesis 2:7
their custom made$ 'Live Strong
Be Strong Be George Strong( t+shirts#
FDF is a great source of inspiration to
many of us: both the memorable
performances in costume under the lights$
and in the relationships and connections
we make with each other o& the stage#
Last year*s Advanced Senior Final Suite by
the Minoans stirred the crowd$ and
Oakland*s Anemos troupe*s performance
of Tsetsos has excited many audiences#
This weekend moves us beyond our normal
routines and encourages us to look beyond
ourselves# As we begin another amazing and
memorable FDF weekend$ let*s be open to
inspiration and to each other# Once inspiration
starts ,owing$ there*s no telling how far it will
reach or where it will go#
How will you be
inspired and how will you inspire others?
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San
Francisco Folk Dance & Choral Festival is the
largest event for Orthodox Christian youth in
the US#- This ministry is so awesome and
unique it brings participants from all across
the globe to share in the experience with
those of us from the West Coast#- With over
" . . . p e o p l e e v e ry y e a r $ s t u n n i n g
performances$ even better fellowship$ and
beautiful worship$ FDF is simply: inspiring#
We are so thrilled to welcome all of you back
to the Hilton Anaheim for FDF ".!/#- We have
some exciting events planned for this year#
Thursday night we*ll hear from
Paralympian Matt Stutzman who will share his inspirational story# - Friday night we*ll all
be inspired by the diverse talents of our youth at Greeks Got Talent#- Saturday night
we*re bringing the village to you as we welcome Kostas Mitsis$ the band Eptasimo$ and
Marianthi Lioudaki for an amazing panigiri#- Sunday we*ll pray together$ cheer on our
top+notch Advanced Senior dancers$ and then dance the night away#- Not only do we
have amazing events lined up for this year$ but we are even more excited to welcome
our brothers and sisters from Cyprus and Brazil#- They have come all the way to the US
to sing$ dance$ and pray with us at FDF#- If you see them this weekend make sure to say
hello and welcome them with our famous Metropolis of San Francisco hospitality#
It may not surprise you to learn that this weekend takes a long time to plan#- In fact$ as
soon as we leave this year*s event$ FDF ".!0 planning will begin on February !1#- We
love this ministry and more importantly we love each and every participant#- From the
cute munchkins in Division III$ to our more seasoned dancers in Advanced Senior; from
the clergy who pray for us$ to the parents who support their local dance ministries; you
all are truly amazing#
Simply$ we want to thank you#- Thank you for coming to FDF ".!/#- Thank you for your
love for this ministry#- Thank you for being our inspiration#
With Love in Christ$
Your FDF ".!/ Board of Trustees & Management Team
Let*s )nd out together!
/
0
Sejam muito
bem-vindos!
!"#$%
&'()"*+!
Alexandrakis Dance Studio
Larnaca$ Cyprus
Neolea
Sao Paulo$ Brazil
The Metropolis of San Francisco and FDF are very pleased to
have with us this year His Eminence Metropolitan Tarasios
of Buenos Aires and South America and one of his dance
groups from the Greek Orthodox community of Sao
Paulo$ Brazil# The group is simply known as Neolea of
Sao Paulo and will dance on the evening of Greeks Got
Talent# We are sure this will be a very colorful and
entertaining performance so we look forward to seeing
you all there!
Metropolitan Tarasios has realized the importance for
the Greek Orthodox youth and young adults in his
Metropolis to connect with other youth and young
adults in other parts of the Diaspora# His Eminence
has brought Neolea of Sao Paulo to FDF this year be
a part of the faith$ dance and fellowship that FDF
o&ers everyone who attends# As His Eminence and
Neolea of Sao Paulo have traveled 4$!/! miles to be
with us as FDF this year$ we know that everyone will
welcome them with open arms and make them feel a
part of the FDF family!
The dance studio of Giorgos Alexandrakis was
founded in "../#- It is located in Psevdas$ a village
in the province of Larnaca in Cyprus#- The dance
teacher of the dance studio is Giorgos
Alexandrakis#- He was born in the occupied
village Galini Morfou on April !$ !120#- He always
loved dance and from the age of 3 he attended
in dance courses until )nally becoming dance
teacher himself#He frequently attendsdi&erent educational courses and seminars for
Greek and Cypriot traditional dances inside
and outside of Cyprus#- He works- closely- with
culture groups and community councils#
- Our Dance studio consists - !.. members#They start from the age of 4 5 2. where they
are taught Greek and Cypriot traditional
dances#
Our Dance studio has attended
di&erent festivals in northern and southern
Greece#- Our Studio also participates in annual
festivals and events on the island of Cyprus# - - - ---
Neolea of Sao Paulo was founded in !142 and since
then$ their goal has been to gather youth from the
community and philhellenes to represent Greece and to
perpetuate the Greek tradition through dance and song
from all parts of Greece#
At this year*s FDF$ Neolea of Sao Paulo will perform dances
and songs from the island of Lesvos# With sounds and steps
they will make the colors of Mytilene come alive# Neolea of
Sao Paulo hope you enjoy their performance and they
wholeheartedly thank FDF for its hospitality and for the
opportunity to participate at FDF this year!
His Eminence Metropolitan Tarasios of Buenos Aires was born in
Gary$ Indiana and grew up in San Antonio$ Texas# He is a graduate of
both Hellenic College and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of
Theology# His Eminence became the )rst American to serve at the
Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople in !11.$
His All Holiness
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew ordained him to the Holy Priesthood on
May "2$ year in 8rgup 9Prokopi: in Cappadocia$ the )rst ordination to take place
there in eighty years$ and to the Holy Episcopacy on June /$ year$ the Feast of
Pentecost# He was enthroned in the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition of the
Theotokos in Buenos Aires on July !0$ "..!# His Eminence speaks English$ Greek$ Spanish$
Italian$ French and Portuguese#
7
This year through our friend Mrs# Eleni Havadjia
we were introduced to the FDF committee#
Because of our- enthusiasm- and interest$ we were
invited to attend this years celebrations# With the
help of Fr# Kyriacou and the )loxenia of Bob and
Helen Kyriacou everything was made possible# - Our dance group is made up of !/ dancers:
George Alexandrakis /1$ Matthaios Morfou ""$ E6ychia
Onisiforou "0$ Nickos Savva !2$ Charoulla Georgiou !7$ Maria
Pa)ti ".$ Flora Vorka !3$ Marina Vorka !4$ Georgiou Stelios !1$
Ilia Sofoullis !1$ Mathaios Giasoumi !4$ Chrystalla Georgiou !3$
Socrates Alexandrakis 1
We are very proud to be able to attend this years festivities with all of
you# We would also like to thank our sponsors that helped this dream come
true for this group which might otherwise have not been possible# Thank you
to -Farmer Boys Restaurants $ City-Council- of Psevdas$-Metropolis-of Trimithoudos$
Ergo Energy Ltd#$ Basilikou$-Query Latouros Pyrga#-
4
Metropolis initiates
strategic planning process
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco embarked on the challenging and visionary process of
formulating a Strategic Plan during the summer of ".!"# The results of this e&ort will provide the Metropolis
with a road map to ensure that it is not only proceeding methodically with its work$ but that the Metropolis is
being proactive in developing meaningful programs and ministries for the spiritual$ educational$ and social
edi)cation of its faithful#
A committee of 7. clergy and lay people representing the diverse regions of the Metropolis gathered twice for
intensive planning retreats# At the initial two+day retreat in Phoenix$ AZ$ the committee began with an
analysis of the Strengths$ Weaknesses$ Opportunities and Threats facing the Metropolis$ followed by the
identi)cation and articulation of the Core Values which are guiding the
overall work of the Metropolis: Christ+centered; Active participation in
sacramental life; Education; Integrity$ transparency and accountability;
Stewardship; Outreach and evangelism; Inclusiveness and engagement;
Courage; Communications using all media; Financial responsibility; and
Minister to all generations and strengthen our families and
relationships#
Welcome to the 37th Annual Folk Dance and Choral Festival!
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.”
These Core Values then led to the development of a Vision Statement
for the Metropolis$ and a6er thorough and extensive analysis$ prayerful
re,ection and consensus+driven discussions$ the Strategic Planning
Committee unanimously embraced the following 'SWEEPing( Vision:
Philippians 4:4
May you always be inspired to serve the Lord with joy
and may your commitment to the Orthodox faith and
Hellenic culture always emulate His love!
With Love in Christ,
!Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco
;
;
;
;
;
Metropolis of San Francisco Vision
We will grow the Orthodox Christian Church in the
Western United States through
Christ+centered:
;
Stewardship
;
Worship
;
Education
;
Evangelism
;
Philanthropic Outreach
Using the Core Values once again as a guide$ the following Task Forces
were formed and have been actively working on their plans for program
development and implementation# These Task Forces are: Specialized
Ministries<Wellness; Stewardship; Philanthropic Outreach; Mission and
Evangelism; Youth; Education; Finances; Liturgical Life;
Communications; Parish Organization and Development; and
Metropolis Organization and Development#
At the January ".!/ two+day retreat in San Francisco$ CA$ each Task
Force provided an in+depth presentation on their respective Strategic
Objectives with speci)c action plans and timelines for implementation#
A presentation on the Strategic Plan will be the focus of the Metropolis
Clergy+Laity Assembly on February "7 5 "4$ ".!/ at Saint Nicholas
Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap$ CA# Following this presentation
and obtaining feedback from the Assembly$ the )nal plan will be
dra6ed$ and implementation will begin later this year#
God has given us the stewardship responsibility over the Greek
Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco# The Metropolis looks forward to
the full realization and implementation of this plan# There is no end to
what we can achieve if we work together for God*s greater glory#
3
#r. James & Virginia Ka$in"
Metropolitan Anthony Humanitarian Award Recipients
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is
pleased to honor Dr# James and Virginia Kallins as the
".!/ recipients of the Metropolitan Anthony
Humanitarian Award# Being lifelong stewards and
servants of the church$ the Kallins* have demonstrated
their love for Jesus Christ through their generosity$
philanthropy and commitment to providing for the
needs of others#
Dr# Kallins was born in Arcadia$ Greece and came to
Chicago to pursue his medical education# He worked in
Obstetrics and Gynecology$ along with Surgery and
Pathology# Dr# Kallins also taught Ob+Gyn at the
University of Illinois for one year# He met Virginia
Mannos$ a native of Chicago$ whom he married in !172#
Virginia$ who earned a Master*s Degree in Psychology$
taught Junior High School and continued studying
toward her Ph#D# until she and her husband relocated to
southern California in !173#
Dr# Kallins had a long and successful career as a medical
professional$ practicing from !171 until his retirement in
!112# He and Virginia started their family in California$
raising three successful children: Barbara Kallins Matty$
an attorney; Dr# George Kallins$ a physician; and Nicholas$ an attorney who tragically passed
away in "...# Dr# and Mrs# Kallins are proud grandparents to Anastasia and Evgenia Matty 5
daughters of Dr# David and Barbara Matty; and Dimitri$ Nicholas and Eston Kallins 5 sons of Dr#
George and Bettina Kallins#
As stewards of Saint Sophia Cathedral in Los Angeles; Assumption in Long Beach; and Saint
George in Downey$ the Kallins* are always generous supporters of the church# Virginia worked
closely with other parents at Saint Sophia Cathedral when her children were younger to
rejuvenate the GOYA ministry to provide a place for them to learn and grow in their faith and
heritage# Dr# Kallins was a member of the Cathedral*s Parish Council# He also founded the Greek
Orthodox Memorial Foundation$ the Hellenic Medical and Dental Society$ and the Alpha Beta
Club 9Greek School: in Downey#
The Kallins* have also been ardent supporters of the Metropolis$ Archdiocese and Ecumenical
Patriarchate# As an Archon in the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle$ Dr# Kallins has served as a
Regional Archon Commander for the Metropolis$ coordinating several events to heighten the
awareness of the struggle for religious freedom by our Mother Church# He has also served on the
Metropolis and Archdiocesan Councils$ and as the Supreme President of the Pan+Arcadian
1
Federation# Dr# and Mrs# Kallins are also members of Leadership !..# The ministry of Saint
Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center was especially blessed by the generosity of the Kallins family
in more recent years as they donated two full+size basketball courts which have added many
opportunities for expanded sports programs# In addition$ the family has generously supported
the development of the Greek Village Immersion Camp 5 To Elliniko Horio 5 at Saint Nicholas
Ranch since its inception in ".!.#
'James and Virginia Kallins exemplify stewardship as they have devoted many years in service to
the Church# They have also passed down to their children and grandchildren the importance of
giving to others$ and this example is more powerful than words$ for it demonstrates their faith in
action$( stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco# 'They are most deserving
of the Metropolitan Anthony Humanitarian Award and we congratulate them on this honor#(
!hil Economopoulo"
".!/ Elios Society Award of Excellence Recipient
Phil Economopoulos$ the ".!/ recipient of the Elios Society*s 'Award
of Excellence$(- is the leader of the Economopoulos Advisory Group#
Phil was a co+founder in !13" of Hoefer & Arnett$ Inc# and served in
numerous executive roles$ including President# A6er Hoefer & Arnett
Inc# merged with Howe Barnes in "..4$ Phil served on the board of
Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett#
The Economopoulos Advisory Group was formed a6er Raymond
James acquired Howe Barnes Hoefer & Arnett in ".!!# Phil began his
career as a stock and bond broker at Dean Witter in San Francisco in
!121 a6er graduating from Stanford University with a degree in
Economics# A6er more than /. years$ Phil*s disciplined approach to
investing and client relationship management has produced an
enviable record of client loyalty#
Phil is also very active in his Greek community having served as advisor$ board member$ and
supporter of several non+pro)t organizations including Leadership !..$ the Patriarch Athenagoras
Orthodox Institute 9PAOI:$ SF Metropolis Council$ and the Bishop Anthony Student Aid
Endowment Fund$ among others# He has served on the Elios Society Board for !4 years and is
currently the organization*s Treasurer#
'The Elios Society salutes Phil Economopoulos as he deservingly is honored during this year*s
FDF$( said Anthony Saris$ President of the Elios Society# 'Phil embodies a commitment to both
our Orthodox faith and Hellenism$ and his lifelong acts of service are sincerely appreciated and
worthy of emulation# AXIOS!(
A native of Concord$ New Hampshire$ Phil and his wife Nancy have two sons$ Johnny and Jason$
who reside in the San Francisco Bay Area#
!.
donald keith hiatt
1921-2012
in memoriam
face# Even when having some di%culties with walking he would get up to dance couple of steps# What an
honor to have met an individual of such high character and
eminence#(
In !130$ Don and Ellie led the 'Oli Mazi( tour of FDF dancers to
Greece$ where they performed in various parts of Greece$ including
Metropolitan Anthony*svillage of Avgeniki$ Crete #
Anne Gani Sirota$ Dance Judge
Don and Ellie Hiatt received the FDF Humanitarian award in !134
and were inducted into the FDF Hall of Fame in !111# In addition$ in
!11.$ Metropolitan Anthony 9of blessed memory: awarded Don and
Ellie Hiatt the Medal of Saint- Paul$ the highest honor given by the
Archdiocese to lay people who have served the Church$ an award
rarely given to a non+Orthodox#
'In one*s life$ you can consider yourself fortunate to have a person
with Don Hiatt*s qualities in your life# In !130 at FDF$ he made me
feel very welcomed$ and that feeling never le6 me for the next "7
years# May he rest in peace#( Dena Stamos$ long time director$ Board
of Trustees member$ and costume judge remembers Don#
Donald K# Hiatt$ one of the FDF founders and long time judge
coordinator and member of the Board of Trustees$ passed away in
Ventura$ CA on April "2$ ".!"#
Donald K# Hiatt was born on February 2$ !1"! in Oakland$ CA to Ira and
Amy 9Knight: Hiatt# Don entered the United States Air Force in !10"
and served in Italy and North Africa during Word War II$ being
honorably discharged in !107#
He worked for the State Compensation Insurance Fund from !17! until !13/$ when he retired# Don married his
high school sweetheart$ Ellie Peseau$ and together they shared the lifelong avocation of learning and teaching
Greek and Balkan dance$ as well as leading many dance tours to those regions# They traveled widely and
volunteered in numerous civic$ social and cultural activities$ including polling places at every election$ and at St#
Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church in San Diego$ St# Constantine and Helen
Greek Orthodox Church in Cardi&#
In the mid+!12.*s$ Don and Ellie met Peter Preovolos$ youth advisor at St#
Spyridon$ and shortly therea6er$ FDF was born++and the rest is history# Don
and Ellie became judge coordinators and remained in that position for "7
years$ until they retired from FDF in "...# They continued to remain active
at St# Spyridon for many years a6er that#
As judge coordinators$ Don and Ellie served as advisors to the FDF Council and
then as members of the FDF Board of Trustees$ representing the judges# They
selected$ trained$ and nurtured numerous Greek dance devotees to become
FDF judges# Don and Ellie worked tirelessly behind the scenes in the days
before FDF to prepare for the weekend# In the days before electronic registration$ they entered all the dance
group information for the judges* score sheets manually$ and prepared all the scoring sheets for the judges# They
were also the editors of Oli Mazi#
Spending many a sleepless FDF weekend$ they gathered and sorted information for the judges$ helped to enter
scores$ )rst manually$ then electronically; chaired judges* meeting and took care of the judges in numerous ways# '
Within the nexus of time+driven anxiety$ I would become calm with Don*s 9and Ellie*s: presence$( remembers Mary
Coros$ FDF dance judge for over ". years# 'Since !131$ one of the )nest personages I ever worked with at FDF#(
They continued working a6er the FDF weekend$ typing and sending out the judges* comments$ and )elding
phone calls and requests from directors for information and feedback#
Dr# Nikos Stefanidis$ FDF dance judge re,ects on his friendship with Don$ ' I will always remember Don for his
zest for life$ his kindness$ and his love of Greek dancing# The sound of Greek music would put a wide smile on his
!!
I had the opportunity and privilege to travel to Greece with Don and
Ellie in the summer of !11/# We spent three weeks together$ dancing$ visiting friends$ sightseeing$ and
enjoying each other*s company# Don and Ellie were just wonderful to be with! With their knowledge of
Greece and their travel experiences$ travel with them was indeed a privilege and an honor and made the trip
especially rewarding# Don and Ellie loved Greece$ Greek dancing$ and all things Greek! They cherished their
time spent there and in the Greek community and made life long friends through their involvement at FDF
and with the Greek churches#
I remained friends with Don and Ellie long a6er they retired from FDF and visited them in San Diego and then
Ventura several times in the years that followed# They were and Ellie continues to
be always gracious$ kind$ warm and loving friends who hold a special place in my
heart#
Don Hiatt was a sel,ess$ humble and giving person$ and full of life and love# He
was a dedicated and committed member of FDF and one of its greatest assets# His
life$ with his wife Ellie always at his side$ was devoted to service in multiple other
areas$ including hosting foreign exchange students$ working at the polls on
election day$ and taking care of his grandchildren and great+grandchildren# Don
will be missed# May his memory be eternal#
Don is survived by his wife of 42 years$ Ellie; children: Kris Plasch 9Al: of Ventura$
Randy Hiatt 9Lisa: of Irvine and Dan Hiatt 9Denise Blake: of San Diego# His
grandchildren are Jason Plasch 9Rachel: and Julie Crenshaw 9Doug:$ both of
Ventura# Don and Ellie also have six great+grandchildren#
May Their Memories Be Eternal
".!/: Fr# Demetrius Dogias
".!": -Fr# James Diavatis
".!": Donald K# Hiatt
".!": Fr# E# Anthony Tomaras
".!": Fr# John Asimacopoulos
".!" Mary Vouras
".!!: Fr# Anthony Moschonas
".!!:Fr# Theophilos Theophilos
".!!: Panos Angels
".!. Athan Karras
".!. Dennis Boxell
".!. Maria Kalmantis
"..1 Rhonda- 'Elenis(- Gadinas$
"..1 John Gianakopoulos
"..1 Dimitri Simvoulakis
"..2 Father Efstathios Mylonas
"..4 Tasia Tsobanoudis
"..4 Jivko Bebelekov
"..0 =His Eminence
Metropolitan Anthony of
Blessed Memory
"..0 Anthony Forakis
".." John Papadoupoulos
".." Hariklia Frangos
"..! Kathy Trapp
"... Anna Efstathiou
"... Vilma Matchette
"... Jim Papangellin
!111 Elizabeth Angelis
!111 Fisher Theodore Harper
!111 Ian Joseph Harper
!111 Katherine Velthoen
!113 John P# Angel
!113 Sonia Spachis
!112 Kim Efstathiou
!112 Paul Ginis !117 Fr# Leonidas C# Contos
!110 Nick Varvitsiotis
!110 Soula Kunelis
!110 Manolis Abazis
!11/ Jim Markus
!11/ Chris Tasulis
!11/ Father A# Homer Demopulos
!11" Spiro Pathos
!11" Katerina Perivoliotis
!133 Bill Angeles
!133 Ted Petrides
!134 Dora Stratou
!13. Christos Papadimitrakis
!131 Chris Tsantilas!121 Cynthia Anderson
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Ministering to our youth and young adults has never been more challenging# Our youth today are
so busy between school$ sports$ and extracurricular activities and of course$ dance practice! Our ".+
somethings are busy trying to establish themselves$ whether in college or working# And our /.+
somethings may be readjusting the plans they made for themselves in their ".*s because of the
economic realities of the past few years# With the increased complexities of life for our youth and
young adults$ it has never been more important for them to have rock+solid understanding of and
faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ# For this reason the Metropolis O%ce of Youth and Young
Adult Ministries is working hard to expand its ministries$ programs and resources for youth workers#
We are all living and working in the mobile age$ and the Metropolis O%ce of Youth and Young
Adult Ministries is committed to building up its presence on the internet# These sites serve as a
uni)ed place to connect our youth$ young adults$ clergy$ youth+workers and parents throughout
our very geographically diverse Metropolis and will be a place for all to share their ideas# So please
check out these sites!
www#gosfyouth#org 5 NEW! Check out the new Youth and Young Adult Ministry website which
will aim to keep everyone informed of all Metropolis and Regional ministries and upcoming events
taking place throughout the year!
The Metropolis also has 7 new Facebook pages to help connect us and keep everyone informed of
events throughout the Metropolis!
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco GOYA
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Young Adults
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Summer Camp
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Oratorical Festival
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Youth Workers
For more information about the O%ce of Youth and Young Adult Ministries$ please contact:
Paul Gikas$ Director
O%ce of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
0!7 3!0 !!34
pgikas@sanfran#goarch#org
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The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese National Department of Youth and Young Adult Ministries is
working on an important assignment#
To keep up with the changing times and changing
technology we have been restructuring our department and looking at ways to re+energize our
nation*s Orthodox youth and young adults#
Our new Department Mission is an important one: to strengthen the relationship between God and
the Greek Orthodox youth and young adults through supportive Christ+centered resources aimed to
sustain youth leaders as well as Orthodox individuals# In other words$ the Department is a resource
for the youth and young adults of our Church$ youth workers$ clergy and parents#
Many people say our youth and young adults are 'the future of our Church#( I have taken it a step
beyond and declared that our youth and young adults are the 'now( of our church# The time for
our youth and young adults to practice Christianity$ to get involved in our Church and community is
now#
Our youth and young adults live in challenging times# Between homework$ a6er school activities$
sports$ GOYA gatherings and dance practice$ our teens are busier than ever# Our young adults are
immersed in college studies or building careers and keeping up with busy social lives# We are all
very busy# Besides attending church services regularly$ how do we )nd the time for our Church and
for God? How do we stay connected to our Church? How do we grow in our faith?
In the coming months$ the National Department will be launching new programs aimed to connect
our children$ teens$ young adults and parents to the Church in relevant and exciting ways#
In addition$ the Department is in the initial planning phase of a National Young Adult Conference#
The Conference will be held July ".!0 in Philadelphia and will precede the National Clergy Laity
Congress# The event is open to young adults ages !3+/.# The theme is 'Generation NOW( and will
focus on maintaining our faith in college$ careers and getting involved in our parishes and our
communities now#
P l ea s e c o n n e c t w i t h u s b y f o l l o w i n g u s o n Fa c e b o o k 9 w w w# f a c e b o o k # c o m <
GOAyouthandyoungadults:$ Twitter and Instagram to stay informed of the new programs starting
soon# Visit www#goarch#org<listserv to join our listserv and receive weekly youth and young adult+
related sermons$ articles and announcements#
!4
rising to the challenge
Southern California GOYA Retreat
The ".!/ Metropolis Southern California GOYA Retreat will take place March !7 5 !2 at the Valley
Trails Camp in Castaic$ CA# The retreat will be led by Fr# Haralambos Fox 9Saints Constantine and
Helen$ Lancaster: and Paul Gikas 9Director$ Metropolis Youth and Young Adult Ministries:#
During this retreat$ participants 92th+!"th grades: will compare the challenges faced on the high
ropes course and zip line with those we encounter during Great Lent and in life! We will worship$
discuss$ explore and have a lot of fun together!
Retreat activities include a high+ropes course$ zip line and team+building games# The price is >!"7
and includes two nights lodging$ all meals and activities#
Drop+o& and registration will be on Friday$ March !7$ between 4:.. 5 3:.. p#m# at the Valley Trails
Camp# Pick+up will be on Sunday$ February "4 between !!:.. a#m# 5 !":.. p#m#
For more information$ please contact Paul Gikas$ Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries$
pgikas@sanfran#goarch#org$ 0!7+3!0+!!34
2013 oratorical festival
The Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival$ started by the
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Religious
Education in !13/$ is an incredible opportunity for our Greek
Orthodox children and teenagers to think about$ research$
write and speak publicly about their faith# We all know that
public speaking is a valuable skill# Through this Festival$ the
Church provides a supportive and nurturing environment for
our young people to become con)dent public speakers and
simultaneously be given the opportunity to learn about their
faith!
Last year the Metropolis Oratorical Festival winners were
Susanna Silva from St# Basil Church in San Jose$ CA for the
Junior Division 9Grades 2 5 1: and Arianna Aram from Sts#
Constantine and Helen Church in Cardi&+by+the+Sea$ CA for
Senior Division 9Grades !. 5 !":# A6er the Metropolis Festival
both Susanna and Arianna participated in the National
Oratorical Festival in Bethesda$ MD where the speakers and
their families were treated to a private tour of our nation*s
Capital during the weekend#
This year His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos has asked all communities in the Metropolis to
establish this ministry in their yearly calendars# As a Church we are deeply concerned about the
religious education of our young people# The Oratorical Festival provides this opportunity par
excellence# Each and every community should embrace the Festival for the bene)t of our youth
and provide them with this challenging opportunity to proclaim their faith in the public arena!
This year*s Metropolis Festival will take place on Saturday$ April ".$ ".!/ at Saint Nicholas Ranch
and Retreat Center#
!2
!3
love one another
summer camp 2013
Metropolis of San Francisco Summer Camp at St# Nicholas Ranch
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is proud to announce the //rd year of its Summer Camp at
Saint Nicholas Ranch# For over three decades$ thousands of youth from all over the Metropolis have
attended summer camp at the Ranch# For many$ camp is one of the greatest experiences of their lives and
end up attending every summer from the time they are in third grade until they graduate from high school#
A6er this$ many return to camp as counselors to give back to the ministry that gave them so much growing
up!
Words really cannot express what an incredible experience summer camp can be# Imagine for a moment
waking up in the morning with all of your friends$ giving thanks to God as a group for a peaceful night and
asking Him to bless the coming day# You then have a fresh country+style breakfast followed by activities like
sports$ Orthodox life discussions$ swimming$ arts and cra6s$ archery and canoeing all day long$ only taking a
break for lunch# At the end of the day you give thanks to God for such a blessed day# You have a delicious
dinner and then participate in evening activities like a camp )re$ a 'Night with God($ skits or star+gazing#
You end the evening with an inspirational story of a Saint of our Church and then a group discussion in your
cabin talking about all of the wonderful things you experienced during the day# The week culminates with
the Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life+Giving Spring# All of this takes place away
from home and far from the pressures of school$ society and everyday life# It takes place in loving embrace
of the Church and in such a heavenly location in the Sierra Mountains of California# During this time you
meet other campers$ counselors$ priests from di&erent parts of the Metropolis# With a week like this$ it*s no
wonder that camp is such a life+transforming experience for all who attend!
The theme for camp this summer will be the directive of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to his disciples in
John !/:/0 5 /7 to 'Love One Another(# This year the Camp Director will be Mr# Paul Gikas$ Director of the
Metropolis O%ce of Youth and Young Adult Ministries# The Program Director will be Mr# Jacob Saylor$
Youth Director of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco$ CA#
The dates for the Metropolis Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch in ".!/ are: ------------------------; Session I: ;
July 2 5 !/
---------------------; Session II:;
July !0 5 ".
---------------------; Session III:--; July "! 5 "2
---------------------; Session IV: -; July "3 5 August /
Price: >0"7 5 Early registration 9March !7 5 April /.:
>007 5 Normal registration 9May ! 5 May /.:
>047 5 Late registration 9June ! 5 June /.:
A >"7 discount is o&ered for each additional child in the same family#
Online registration will be available beginning March !7th at www#sanfran#goarch#org#
For more information$ visit the Metropolis booth and speak to a Summer Camp representative$ or contact
Jacob Saylor at saylorjt@gmail#com#
!1
".
counselors needed!
bringing the village to you
musician biographies
Are you a young adult 9age !1 or older or have completed your )rst year of college: looking for a rewarding
and meaningful way to spend part of your summer? Have you ever thought of being a camp counselor? One
of the most ful)lling experiences you can have is working with the youth of our Church at camp where you
will be a positive Orthodox role model for them and help them grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ# As
a camp counselor you can make a di&erence in the lives of our young people while growing in myriad of ways
yourself# -
kostas mitsis
Kostas was born in !127$ Munich Germany# In !124 he moved to Greece in the area of
Preveza$ Epirus$ where his parents have their roots# Kostas grew up in a farm life
environment with the customs of traditional farm family life$ where traditional dance
and music held a signi)cant place in his everyday life# He studied Agriculture in the
Aristoteleio University of Thessaloniki$ and did post graduate studies at the University
of Ioannina#
'Elliniko Horio( + 'Greek Village(
The Greek Village Camp will be held June "! 5 "1$ ".!/# As this program is a Greek language and cultural
immersion program$ pro)ciency in Greek is preferred# If interested$ please visit the Metropolis booth in the
exhibition hall and speak to a Greek Village representative$ or contact Paul Gikas at
pgikas@sanfran#goarch#org#
Due to his continuous studies on Greek tradition he sings songs from most of the areas
of Greece# Kostas collaborates with some of the most important musicians of our
generation such as Petro Loukas Chalkias$ Nikos Filippidis$ Alexandros Arcadopoulos$
Kostas Verdis$ Kyriakos Gouventas at various festivals and glendia in Greece and
abroad#
Summer Camp at Saint Nicholas Ranch ------------------------Summer Camp dates this year are: Counselor Orientation: July " 5 4; Session I: July 2 5 !/; Session II: July !0 5
".; Session III: July "! 5 "2; Session IV: July "3 5 August /# Preference will be given to applicants who can
commit for all four sessions but you can apply for individual weeks as well# If interested$ please come to the
Metropolis booth and speak to a Summer Camp representative# A6er FDF$ please contact Jacob Saylor at
saylorjt@gmail#com#
eptasimo
workshops 2013
Anysia Dumont & Vaso Rahimzadeh$ Management Team
What do action heroes have in common with Church Fathers? How does our faith )t into a world
of technology and entertainment? Who were 'The Real Empresses of Constantinople(? Why is
confession important for Orthodox Christians?
This year FDF is excited to feature some of our most unique workshops ever and the twelve
talented workshop leaders behind them# We o&er workshops for elementary$ middle school$ and
high school students$ as well as young adult and parent workshops# Due to the success of the
parents* workshops last year$ we are eager to turn this endeavor into an FDF tradition# While we
would like to remind our readers that workshops are mandatory for all participants$ the goal of
FDF workshops is to inspire and strengthen our faith in the spirit of fellowship# As high school
workshop leader Jacob Saylor 9Youth Director at Holy Trinity$ SF: aptly expressed: 'FDF*s greatest
joy is that we are drawn together by our faith to celebrate our culture# This year*s workshops will
continue this beautiful tradition# I know that they will inspire the FDF ".!/ participants to deepen
their understanding of their Orthodox faith#(
FDF would like to sincerely thank all of our workshop presenters# How will the ".!/ workshops
inspire you? Check out the workshop schedule on page _ and the FDF
Facebook page for more information!
"!
He has released " CD*s along with the books 'Periigisi sto Dimotiko Tragoudi( 9Volume
A & B :# Each disc includes !! )rstly published old songs from Epirus# The /rd CD of the
series is ready and will be published soon# He has performed on the Greek State
Television 9ERT: several times# Most recently at the television show 'To Alati tis Gis(
and also on two broadcasts of 'O Topos kai to Tragoudi tou#(
The band 'Eptasimo( was created in !117 by Vangelis Papanastasiou 9clarinet:$
Vangelis Sarantidis 9violin:$ Iakovos Iliades 9lute: and Lazaros Akrivopoulos
9percussion:# The musical journey of the band has been based on rich musical
life experiences and theoretical training with European music theory and
Byzantine music#
The group is a%liated with various organizations in Greece and abroad# The
most memorable moments of this musical voyage include the participation in
the celebrations of the Olympic Games 'Athens "..0($ two television shows on
NBC in order to view the Olympic Games$ and 'Memory( of the Pan+Hellenic
Union Refugee Societies 9Athens Concert Hall "..4:#
The band members take part in teaching music at various educational
institutions and provide research and recording material for literature and
various CDs# The 'Eptasimo( CD$ featuring Kostas Mitsis$ is their most recent masterpiece produced by Universal
Music Greece# This publication is an anthology of the most popular folk songs from various regions of Greece#
marianthi lioudaki
Marianthi was born in !130 in Athens# Marianthi studied Philosophy and Psychology at
The University of Athens# Her involvement with singing began in ".." as a member of
the orchestra 'Nastra**$ in the cultural center of the Municipality of Heraklion$ with
artistic repertoire# Her true love for traditional+folk music was found when she was
introduced to Smirneiko$ to rebetiko and dimotiko songs# She began her singing in
shops$ taverns and music halls$ with talented musicians of the generation# She also took
voice lessons with outstanding teachers like Mirka Gementzaki and even took piano
lessons with Yiota Karagianni# In August "..1 she attended a seminar on 'Turkish Folk
Song** by Mercan Erzincan$ in the musical workshop 'Labyrinth( by Ross Daily# In the last
four years she has also been involved with traditional dances as well by participating in a
singing and dancing team taught by Stepheno Ganotis called 'Ta Perperouna#( Since her
career has begun$ she has also collaborated with Yianni Lempesi$ Panagiotis Lalezas$ the
band Eptasimo and many others#
""
The best summer of your life
metropolis of san francisco philoptochos
beacons of faith, hope, and love
Jeannie Ranglas$ Metropolis Philoptochos President
'And now abide faith$ hope$ love$ these three; but the greatest of these is love#(
I Corinthians /;!/
The Ladies Philoptochos Society of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco is a dynamic ministry
with 74 chapters and over 0$... members who are devoted stewards of the Church# Our Philoptochos sisters
have especially committed themselves to serving others$ and placing as a priority the health$ welfare$ safety
and comfort of those in need$ and supporting the overall vision of the Metropolis of San Francisco under the
inspired leadership of His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco#
The challenges of our economy in more recent years have only further enhanced the work of Philoptochos$
as the people in our parishes$ our civic communities$ and across the globe have struggled for the basic
necessities of life# Philoptochos has been at the forefront of these e&orts and the Metropolis of San Francisco
has been a dominant source of support$ restoring faith$ providing hope$ and sharing love#
The New Year brings with it great hope and promise$ as our ministry ,ourishes$ guided by the love of Jesus
Christ and His examples of humility$ sacri)ce$ mercy and grace# Our dedication to Kids ?n* Cancer$ Camp
Agape ministry is further strengthened by the hope that it o&ers families of children that are a@icted with
cancer# The )ve summer camps$ throughout the Metropolis$ provide opportunities for enjoyment and lasting
friendships for those less fortunate than us# The kindness and caring that surrounds our camp families o&ers
an ideal environment for therapy and healing# In addition$ we fund two oncology transportation programs
o&ered by Emilio Nares Foundation$ Ride With Emilio that facilitate receiving vital medical treatments# In
late ".!"$ one of young campers$ Lorena$ lost her battle to leukemia# She is not the )rst camper we have lost$
and sadly$ she will not be the last# While we were all deeply saddened by her passing$ I will never forget her
bright spirit at camp this past summer$ when she shared with us that it was the best time she ever had# We
will treasure those words for they are a source of strength to continue this program and make a tangible
di&erence in the lives of these children#
Through his incredible vision$ His Eminence Metropolitan Anthony$ of blessed memory$ founded the Bishop
Anthony Philoptochos Student Aid Endowment Fund$ which has been a beacon of hope for our seminarians
from the Metropolis of San Francisco# For more than "7 years we have endeavored to support the
seminarians and students from our Metropolis$ by contributing over >! million towards minimizing their
debt when they graduate# This e&ort is made possible by the commitment from each Philoptochos Chapter$
as well as the Light the Path A Christmas Luncheon$ which raises substantial funds for our seminarians# In
addition$ Plant a Seed$ Grow Our Faith is a grass roots attempt to raise funds$ awareness and support through
the sale of basil seed packets# It is our honor and privilege to be able to ease the )nancial burden of our
seminarians as they prepare to devote their lives to serving the Lord in our Church#
With faith$ hope and love$ we will endeavor to be a guiding light for others# We remain steadfast in our
e&orts and I am certain that the Lord will shower our work with His blessings$ for all that we o&er is for Him
and His Glory!
"/
Christina Loridas$ Ionian Village Sta& ".!"
The sun peaks slowly over the tiny white chapel$ gently breathing life into a gray morning$ slowly giving
warmth to all it touches# I close my eyes and allow it to scorch my skin$ kissing my soul# I drink in the smell
of the sweet IV air$ a mix of peace$ of hope# Of His presence# A touch of oregano and sea breeze$ of olive
trees blowing so6ly in the wind#
I relish in the quiet$ for soon I know I will hear the scamper of feet$ coming in all directions# Old Navy ,ip
,ops and Adidas shoes will cover the small area outside our chapel and the beautiful sound of young voices
will carry so6ly through the air$ down towards the kitchen$ where Kyria So)a is preparing our morning
meal$ made always with love# Voices chanting the morning Orthros$ heads bent gently over little blue
hymn books in preparation for the day ahead#
No$ the quiet won*t last# Because today we are headed to Kalavrita and Mega Spilaio to see an icon of the
Panagia$ made with mere tree sap centuries before# Where we will go to the church of the Kimisis Tis
Theotokou to hear a ninety+year+old priest speak of the Greek massacre which occurred in that very village
years before# Where we will learn a hymn whose lovely melody will bring our camp together each evening
as we gather before bed# Or perhaps today we )nd ourselves on Aegina$ venerating Agios Nektarios$ the
saint*s footsteps heard with one ear pressed gently against his grave$ which encases mere relics# Maybe the
ferry will carry us across beautiful blue waters to the island of Zakynthos$ to the patron saint of forgiveness
and of Ionian Village itself$ Agios Dionysios# Today could be the day we board the buses and traverse the
dusty roads for our two+day venture on Kerkyra$ to attend liturgy at the church of Agios Spyridon$ tucked
away on a side street amongst tiny shops )lled with preserved sweets in bright colored bottles# No matter
where we go$ we will go together# Always a family$ always as one#
And each day$ I learn something more# That the life bestowed upon us is the most valuable possession we
own# That each day is one more to live to the fullest$ yet another chance to love until we feel we can burst#
That our ability to live and to love is our thanks to our Him# That our Lord is the reason we breathe and
with every breath He wants us to live His words# Simply to love#
I begin to see our dear campers with bright smiles and happy eyes$ as they too realize this# As they )nd
peace$ and slowly )nd their beating hearts )lled with life once more# As they cease to feel pain$ confusion$
fear# As they venture past the rocks$ feet cut and blistered$ souls tired# As they continue on bended knees
towards the light# As they begin to feel our Lord guiding them# Yes$ today was wonderful but wait until
tomorrow# You*ll see$ I tell them#
The sun is slowly setting; the cross atop the chapel becoming less illuminated as the light gradually
vanishes# The brightness of the tiny church is dimming# Wait until tomorrow$ it whispers$ you*ll see#
I already know$ I reply back#
spotlight on diakonia
holy trinity
san francisco, ca
The dancers from the two
groups Aristoforoi and Mikra Ftera
have been busy this past year serving
their communities and honoring the call of
Matthew "7# - From helping those in their own
Aristoforoi & Mikra Ftera Dance Groups
backyard to others across borders$ these young people are
shining examples of Christian service and stewardship# This
year they participated in 0 outstanding Diakonia projects# -Read on
to )nd out more!
Thanksgiving Meals on Wheels
In this project dance group members
along with other youth and young adults
volunteered for San Francisco Meals on Wheels
program# - Through this service they delivered free
meals and hugs to shut+ins and those in need# -Most
of the people served lived in low+income urban areas
of San Francisco who were truly in need!
Trinity Project
In their own backyard$ dancers carried out a variety
of monthly projects on the campus of their church#These 'labors of love( included cleaning up debris$
painting$ and clearing out wooded areas# Through
these projects the dancers learned how they could
play a hands+on+role in helping their own church#
Project Mexico
Dancers along with other youth and young adults
participated in Project Mexico ".!" at St# Innocent
Orphanage 9Rosarita$ Mexico:# - There they built a
home for a single+parent family in great need$
engaged the boys at the orphanage$ and worshipped
with the sta&# -They are planning to return again this
June#
Help+Portrait
In December Holy Trinity hosted a Help+Portrait
clinic# - A- community+led event for the greater SF
area$ we were able to give people who couldn*t
otherwise a&ord them$ same+day$ professional$
framed portraits of themselves and their families+
for free$ no strings attached$ while also providing
food and distributing clothing for those same
participating families#
"7
judge biographies
DANCE JUDGES
Konstantine $Dean% Avdalas has been dancing and directing at FDF for &' years( )His passion and love for Greek
folklore has grown over this time leading him to develop excellent skills as a dancer* director* choreographer*
and researcher( )His main areas of folkloric research and interest include Epiros* Sarakatsan villages* and Megalo
Monastiri +refugees residing in Neo Monastiri* Domokou* Thessalia,( ) Speci-cally he has performed
groundbreaking work with the Albanian border villages of Northern Epiros and the customs of the
Dodekaimerou in Neo Monastiri( His knowledge of Greek folklore encompasses dances* songs* customs* and
even costuming( )Over the time has been involved in FDF he has amassed a vast collection of -eld research and
music from all areas of Greece( ) In !'..* he served as a judge at the HDF in the Metropolis of Atlanta( ) His
greatest source of inspiration and drive for Greek dance excellence are his mother and father +may his memory
be eternal,(
Dean resides in San Francisco* CA where he owns his own business( ) When not dancing* Dean coaches
basketball at his home parish of Holy Trinity( )He is very excited and enthusiastic about being asked to serve as
a judge at FDF !'.& and is looking forward to a weekend of faith* dance* and fellowship(
So-a Efstratiou/Nicolaou has been dancing from childhood and has) directed several dance troupes in her !0/
year dance career( She has been attending FDF since .1## and started her dance and director calling at the St(
Nicholas parish in) San Jose* California() So-a spent 0 years in Greece where she was a dance member of the
Lyngistes Dance Troupe lead by Yiannis) and Ira Konstantinou() During her years abroad* she attended several
dance seminars and numerous cultural gatherings and events( Through this dance journey* she developed a
deep understanding*)true inspiration and passion for the Greek heritage through dance( This experience gave
her the opportunity to obtain extensive)knowledge in many dance regions of Greece()So-a has studied in great
detail the dance* music* customs* traditions and dress of Western Macedonian giving heaving emphasis on the
region of Florina()Her article* $A Journey Through Agios Germanos% which)tells the story of)her journey through
the Florinan highlands*)was published in the Oli Mazi newspaper()Other regions of research* interest and study
include Epirus* Eastern Macedonia and Vlach dances* traditions and culture() )Her)devotion and love for Greek
dance continues to guide her study today(
Joe Kaloyanides Graziosi has done extensive research on regional dance in Greece and among Greek
communities in the U(S( He has taught throughout the world for community groups and at major folk dance
camps* including the Balkan Music and Dance Workshops since .1#!( He was a co/founder of New York2s Greek
American Folklore Society +GAFS, along with its director* Paul Ginis* where he taught throughout the decade
of the #'s( Joe has taught and introduced people to Greek dance in Taiwan* Canada* Brazil* Switzerland*
Germany* the Netherlands and England( Earlier this year he returned from Japan* marking his !'th year
anniversary teaching tour there( He has served as judge and advisor for the west coast Greek Orthodox Folk
Dance Festival +FDF, since .1#3* and judge and advisor for the southern states Hellenic Dance Festival +HDF,
for the past # years( He is* along with Ahmet Luleci* co/founder of the annual World Music & Dance Camp*
now in Iroquois Springs* NY( Joe produces CD compilations of hard to -nd regional folk dance music(
Larry Halfhill has !' years of FDF experience as a dancer* director and choreographer() He became a
competition dance judge in !''4 as a way to contribute back to FDF and bring a di5erent perspective to the
judging process() Larry2s Greek roots derive on his mother2s side from Arcadia() His broad/based dance
experience over a period of &' years spans regions and borders() Current areas of special interest include Crete*
Anatoliki Romilia* Macedonia* the Peloponnese and Megara( Larry lives in Seal Beach* California with wife
Bessie Nicolaou Halfhill* a former FDF dancer and director* and children Thanasi* Maria* and Leonidas() He is an
active member of St( John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Anaheim() Larry attended the University of
Southern California* where he earned BS and MS degrees in engineering and an MBA(
Dimitrios Kontogiannis has been involved in traditional Greek dance since the age of .!( He danced with
several groups while growing up in Greece* and participated in European dance tours( It was also at a young
age that he developed a keen interest in researching the historical dances* songs* and customs of traditional
Greek culture( A6er moving to Canada* Dimitris began teaching Greek dance classes to both children and
!"
adults( He is now the director of the Zefyros Hellenic Dance Society* and has also taught at a number of seminars in
Canada and the United States( He has produced two theatrical presentations +Greece is Dancing +!''',* and Ole
Opa +!''0,,* and his group appears regularly at local Greek festivals* and many other community events( Dimitris
continues to be active in researching traditional Greek dance; he has also become very interested in costume
research and reproduction( In both his research and his teaching* Dimitris is dedicated to doing his part to preserve
traditional dances from all regions of Greece( This will be his -rst year as a judge at FDF(
Kiki Papadimitriou of Atlanta* Georgia was born and raised in Karyaes Lakonia Greece( A6er moving and becoming
established in the United States in Atlanta* GA 7 Kiki joined Troupe Hellas in the #'s( Through years of dance*
costume and song education* attending workshops* traveling and conducting research in Greece* Kiki has developed
a solid* working knowledge of Hellenic Dance and Folklore with a specialty in costumes( She has been directing
dance groups of all ages since the 1's and continues to instruct for her parish dance group( Her judging experience
began in the Metropolis of Atlanta for the Hellenic Dance Festival program( There she gained experience as a
costume and dance judge alongside instructors such as Joe Graziosi* John Lulias* Dr( Mary Coros* Aris Yortzidis*
Demetri Tashie and more( She has judged at HDF many times / as a costume and dance judge / since its inception in
!'''( She has judged at other competitions around the United States including: FDF in New Jersey diocese !''0*
!''4 +dance8costume,* FDF in California !''0* !''4* !''# +costume, and AGDC +America2s Greek Dance
Competition !''1 +dance 8costume,(
Dr( Christos Papakostas recently landed a job position as a lecturer at the University of Athens on the subject of
Greek Traditional Dance( He is a scholar* master dance teacher and percussionist( For the past !' years* he has
served as a folklorist* choreographer* dance instructor* and percussion instructor for multiple performing groups( He
served as artistic director of Lykion Ellinidon Dramas +Macedonia, and in several folk dance groups in Karditsa and
Larisa +Thessaly,; Komotini +Thrace, and Ioannina+Ipiros,( Christos is well known in Hellenic circles in U(S(A(*
Canada and Europe and has taught at dance seminars in Belgium* France* and the U(K( On his -rst U(S( teaching
tour in spring !'.!* he taught to great acclaim in the Midwest and East Coast( He has undergraduate degrees in
physical education and sport science with specialty in Greek traditional dance; his dissertation focused on dances of
the Roma +gypsy, community of northern Greece( He has published and presented numerous studies on Greek
dance* music* folklore and anthropology; has taught at multiple universities in Epirus* Thessaly and Crete( This is
his second time participating as a judge at FDF(
Robbi Shulman as been involved in the world of Greek dance for over &0 years() She was introduced to and fell in
love with the heart and soul and parea of Greek dance and music at the Intersection* the folk dance caf9 opened by
Athan Karras in the .14's( She performed with the Intersection Greek Dancers and was an original member of the
Panegiri Dancers* directed by Nikos Varvitsiotis and co/directed by George Nickols* performing at festivals in
Pasadena and Redondo Beach long before those communities were sending dance groups to FDF() Robbi directed
dance groups at St( Katherine2s in Redondo Beach for eight years and has judged the competition at FDF on and o5
since .11#( She has travelled to Greece and has participated in workshops with a special interest in the regions of
Pontos* Thrace and Macedonia* along with Kalymnos* thanks to Louise Bilman( Robbi has continued to teach Greek
dance at Kypseli Dance Center and at Caf9 Asteria Greek Dance Club in West Los Angeles where* along with Anne
Sirota* she is actively involved in perpetuating interest in Greek dance and culture(
Anne Gani Sirota was born in the Greek community in Alexandria* Egypt* where her grandparents immigrated in the
early !'th century from Epirus( Anne has studied* performed* and taught Greek dance for over 3' years( She was
assistant director and lead dancer of the Ellas Dance Theater* directed by Charlie Kyriacou for four years* as well as a
member of several other Los Angeles performing companies including the Intersection Greek Dancers* Panegiri*
directed by Nikos Varvitsiotis* and O Pontos* directed by Nikos Savvidis( Anne travels to Greece o6en and has
concentrated her studies of Greek dance on Pontian and Macedonian villages in Northern Greece* attending
festivals* weddings* seminars* classes and performances in Greece and the United States( She presented a paper on
$A Wedding in Florina% at the International Organization of Folk Arts +IOFA, in !''' and has written several
articles for Oli Mazi( She consults frequently with dance groups and has taught Greek dancing classes at Kypseli
Greek Dance Center in Pasadena as well as Pierce and Santa Monica Community Colleges( Anne is one of the
founders and leaders of the Caf9 Asteria Greek Dance Club in Los Angeles* and on the Board of Kypseli Greek Dance
Center where we teach* dance and disseminate traditional Greek dance( Anne has been an FDF judge continuously
since .1## and an HDF judge for several years( Anne is currently a member of the FDF Board of Trustees as a judge
consultant(
Bessie Stavropoulos has been involved in FDF for !': years either as a dancer* director or both( Born and raised in
Las Vegas* Nevada* she -rst attended FDF in .1#" as a dancer from St( John the Baptist( In .11&* she began directing
!#
at the age of %& and one year later' her group was the (rst primary group to ever win sweepstakes in FDF history)
She continued dancing and directing well into her college years but stepped away for a short period to complete
her degree) Upon returning to the dance scene' she received the Division I * Director+s Award in !$$#) She
became the head director of her community and was directing as many as four groups at a time) Bessie has
attended many seminars throughout the United States' Canada and Greece) For four consecutive summers from
!$$,*!$%$' she studied dance in Greece which included attending seminars taught by some of Greece+s (nest
instructors' touring Thrace and Macedonia and learning the many traditions and dances of her father+s region of
Preveza' Ipiros) With the help and support of the St) John+s Dance Ministry' Bessie organized the Horepse Dance
Seminar in Las Vegas in !$$,' !$$-' !$$" and !$%! where they featured top instructors and musicians from all
over Greece and the United States) She directed the Las Vegas groups through !$%$ then moved on to become a
dance judge in !$%%) This will be her third year on the judges+ panel) Currently living in Greece' she continues to
attend various dance seminars and participates in the local traditions)
Nikolaos Stefanidis was born in Chios' Greece and though he did not dance that much as a youngster' he did pay
undivided attention to the dances performed by elders in his native island of Chios) His love of dancing was not
put into action until he saw a performance by the Terpsichoreans in Philadelphia in %",. celebrating the country+s
bicentennial) He remained an active dancer until August of %"-# when he le/ the east coast to pursue graduate
studies in Los Angeles) He stumbled upon the Panygiri dance group while they were performing at the Greek
festival in Arcadia that very summer' and attended practices as time allowed) His (rst involvement with FDF was
when he was invited to dance Chios dances for a memorial to Manoli Abazis in San Francisco) Nikos is a
psychologist in Los Angeles' working with homeless and troubled teens) He was the recipient of the !$$Humanitarian Award) 0Nikos has taught dances from Chios at Kypseli' and consults with various groups in the
Los Angeles area) Nikos has been an FDF judge since !$$.)
Aris Yortzidis has been involved with FDF for !1 years as a dancer' director' and member of the FDF Board of
Trustees) 0 He began dancing in his home parish of St) George in Downey' CA in %"-! and also performed with
groups from the St) Anthony parish in Pasadena' CA and the Assumption parish in Long Beach' CA) 0In %""& and
until his departure from Southern California in !$$$' Aris directed groups at St) George' Downey' CA; Sts)
Constantine and Helen' Cardi2*by*the*Sea' CA; and St) Katherine' Redondo Beach' CA) In %"".' Aris received an
FDF Scholarship that provided him the opportunity to research the dances of Serres; the dances and traditions of
his father+s village of Chrysochorafa 3Gagauzika4' Serres; the dances of the Vlachs of Serres; and the dances of
Pontos in Serres' Katerini 3where his mother is from4' and Thessaloniki)
COSTUME JUDGES
Ava Angeletopoulos has been involved with FDF for nearly #$ years) Her involvement progressed over the years
from dancer' director' and program director for both St) Nicholas Church in Northridge and St) Sophia Cathedral
in Los Angeles) Ava eventually became more involved in the management of FDF including serving as a member
of the Board of Trustees and the Managing Director of FDF in %"",) She attended numerous dance and costume
symposia throughout the United States and Greece) Her experiences help foster a passion for teaching both
dance and making traditional costumes) Ava is responsible for making multiple intricate costumes that have won
numerous costume awards) Through this involved process' Ava developed an extensive knowledge of traditional
costume techniques including textiles' embroidery' the manufacturing of trims and cording' regional pattern
techniques' machine and hand sewing' along with the complex methods of properly worn headdresses) Her
passionate commitment to maintaining the rich cultural traditions is evident in her expression and sharing of her
extensive knowledge throughout the years)
Bertha Angels (rst got involved in FDF in %"-# as an observer and her involvement progressed over the years as
her children embraced Greek Folk dancing) Through this involvement Bertha developed a passion for costumes
that has led to years of continued research and learning) Bertha has been fortunate to be part of several
communities in the Los Angeles area) Currently' she is an active member of Saint Sophia Cathedral)0Over the years
she+s done extensive research and made costumes from every region of Greece in support of multiple
communities) In the course of researching costumes' Bertha has gained extensive exposure in materials' pattern
making' embroidery' crocheting trim and detailed sewing in an e2ort to preserve the rich authentic Greek
traditions of costume making)
!"
Renee Cleary taught Greek Dance at Fullerton College and was a member of a performing Greek Dance Group for
thirteen years' seven as the director)0 She has traveled widely through Greece' collecting and researching both
costumes and dances)0 She observed both professional and amateur dance groups and village festivals)0 Renee has
been involved continuously for over #& years with Greek dance workshops 3over &$4' festivals' consultations and as
a teacher of Greek dancing)0 She (rst participated in FDF in %"-% and has been a costume or dance judge every year
since %"-&)0
0
Irene Peros is a native of Modesto' California) She has been dancing since a very young age) Her pride and love for
her Greek heritage have encouraged her to study Greek dance' costumes' and to help teach and share her
knowledge and experience with people of diverse backgrounds) Her formal involvement in Greek folklore began in
%"-1 when she was instrumental in forming' dancing and directing the Patriotes of Modesto) From %"-1 to %"""'
she directed' assisted or danced in %$ di2erent dance groups in Modesto) She was also involved with the
coordination' research and production of %% award*winning costumes) Irene also chaired # very successful FDF
Symposia held in Modesto) Irene has been a costume judge since !$$%)
CHORAL JUDGES
Pini5 Dovalis Benetatos holds a Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance from CSULB and a Master+s Degree in Piano
Performance from USC) Following the completion of the Master+s Degree' she continued post*graduate studies
focusing on solo and duo*piano repertoire and concerti) Pinio has held sta2 positions in the dance and music
departments at CSULB' CSUF' UCLA' California Institute of the Arts' and teaching positions at Orange Coast College
and Kids+ College at Cypress College) Mrs) Benetatos is an active member of Music Teachers Association of
California' Music Teachers National Association' CAPMT' American Guild of Organists' and the National Guild of
Piano Teachers) She is Music Director6Organist of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Long Beach and also
maintains a busy teaching schedule at her private music studio in Cypress where she and her husband' Harry
reside) Pinio greatly enjoys her position as pianist and vocal coach for Meritage Vocal Arts Ensemble based in
Orange County' California)
Athena Mertes currently resides in Las Vegas' NV where she is the choir director at St) John the Baptist Greek
Orthodox Church) She received her Master of Music degree in vocal performance and Bachelor of Music degree in
music education from UNLV) Athena teaches middle school choir' and is an active performer of concert and opera
repertoire) In addition to her success as an opera and concert performer' Athena has earned numerous awards for
her performances' such as the Metropolitan Opera National Council Encouragement Award' winner of the Greek
Women+s University Club National Competition' the National Association of Teachers of Singing Artist Award' %st
place in the Dean Allen Scholarship Competition' Classical Singer Convention AFE winner' (nalist in the Hennings*
Fischer Young Artist Competition and %st place in the National Association of Teachers of Singing 3NATS4
competition)
Christopher Yokas has been the organist at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral for the past #1 years)0 Aside
from his many music activities and responsibilities at Saint Sophia including assistant director of music' Chris was
the organist for the %"-. Clergy laity Congress in Dallas' Texas' the %""% National GOYAL Conference in Los
Angeles' the %""& Mid*Eastern Choir Federation Conference in Ambridge' Pennsylvania' the %"", Patriarchal Divine
Liturgy in Los Angeles' and several San Francisco Metropolis Church Musician Conferences from %"-# to present)0
He was the principal organist for the three major services of the !$$! Clergy*Laity Congress held in Los Angeles'
California and was recently the organist for the !$%! Clergy*Laity Congress in Phoenix' Arizona) He served as a
choral judge at the !$$"' !$%% and !$%!0Metropolis of San Francisco Folk Dance and Choral Festivals) In February
%"",' Chris received the national Forum Patriarch Athenagoras I Award for Distinguished Service to the Metropolis
of San Francisco) Chris resides in Burbank' California with his wife' Eleni)
#$
Lessons for life
greek dance, fdf, and skills for success
Aris Yortzidis$ Dance Judge
There is an important message in this article++ the skills one develops as a
result of FDF 9dance director$ management team member$ dance board
member$ Board of Trustee member$ judge: are directly transferable to
professional life# I also believe that the skills one develops or hones as a
working professional are directly transferable to activities revolving around
FDF 9and more broadly$ to activities outside of professional life:# The
opportunities to learn new or hone existing skill can be found in just about
everything we do#
Aris with his wife Anna and their
daughter Asimina#
For some of you$ this message will sound profound# Others will say$ 'I
knew this already#( Either way$ I wanted to write it down with the goal of
making sure the message is passed on# Why? Not because I am some
expert on the matter# I simply believe we have a responsibility to cultivate
members of our community$ particularly our younger members$ and use
every avenue available to turn them into successful individuals#
In recounting my own journey$ I realize I was very myopic when I was
youngerAmy view of the world was that being involved in extracurricular
activities was good for college applications 9shows you are well rounded$ etc:#
It was about just being involved in these activities$ not skill sets gained from them# Sure$ you can say implicit in this
statement is that the skill sets gained through these and other activities makes one a well+rounded individual# That is
not what I was thinking# It would not be until I started applying to graduate school that I started to understand the
importance of everything I had done in my past and what I was doing in the present like dance and work#
The graduate school programs in International A&airs I applied to placed a premium on practical$ real world
experiences and the skills sets obtained through those experiences# I thought this would be a daunting taskAbesides
my bachelor*s degree in International Studies$ what skills did I have to make graduate programs consider me a good
candidate for their program? As it turns out$ while I did not have speci)c experience 9e#g#$ performing international
work:$ I did have the skill set that could be applied from my Greek dance and FDF experiences#
How did I acquire these skills?
;
•Being a part of the FDF Board of Trustees and the Management Team that manages the entire FDF weekend
;
9over !.. dance and choral groups and associated activities:# 9Leadership$ Communications$ Interpersonal$
;
Con,ict Management<Problem Solving$ Financial Management:
;
•Being a Greek dance director which required traveling to Greece$ conferences$ researching individually with
;
other experts# 9Leadership$ Communications$ Interpersonal$ Research:
;
•Being part of dance board that ran the dance programs at parishes in the southern California area#
;
9Leadership$ Communications$ Interpersonal$ Con,ict Management<Problem Solving$ Financial Management:
;
•I also must give credit to working at the 'magazi($ a brief stint at a dotcom$ and interning at the Orange
;
County courthouses conducting alternative dispute resolution<mediations 9Leadership$ Communications$
;
Interpersonal$ Con,ict Management<Problem Solving$ Financial Management:
It worked# I was accepted into The George Washington University Elliott School of International A&airs# During
graduate school$ I started my career in the federal government doing entry level project management work for
attorneys working alternative dispute resolution 9mediations$ etc: issues# I had the dispute resolution<mediation<
negotiation skill but I was hired for my other skills 9and my boss would openly tell senior leadership about my Greek
dance experiences and my family background in running successful businesses:#
/!
In negotiating an international agreement$ it is about preparation 9like an FDF suite:# To prepare$ I borrowed from
the director<researcher playbook# You have to do your homework 9aka research: on the subject matter and
e&ectively communicate a great many thingsAfrom administrative points to your speci)c positions to your co+
negotiator# When negotiations would get rough and we would come to an impasse$ that is where interpersonal and
con,ict management skills came into play# Typically$ the negotiating teams would have social functions a6er
negotiations where we would get together in a di&erent setting 9e#g#$ a restaurant:# If I was the lead negotiator$ I
would ask my counterpart to meet earlier at the restaurant to have a less formal talk# Many issues 9sometimes the
most contentious issues: would be resolved in these sessions# I equate this to learning dance in a formal workshop
and then going to the village to watch villagers dance# Workshops are useful 9just like the formal negotiating
sessions: but you learn and achieve di&erent knowledge<goals in the village setting 9the informal restaurant setting
with your co+negotiator:#
I mentioned at the start of this article that skills one develops or hones as a working professional are directly
transferable to activities revolving around FDF too# I know the skills I have developed and acquired the last !" years
have helped me be a better dance director$ instructor$ and judge# It is not so much that I actually obtained more
skills+++it is the practical application of many of the skills in di&erent ways that has had countless bene)ts# Here are
just a few that deserve mention:
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
•Advanced analytic skills# Research requires analysis but as a director<research$ I had not developed a very
good analytic eye# I o&er that my analytic skill set was good# It got better with training and by the on the
job experience# It has been in my current and previous job where I have obtained these skills# In my current
job$ I have to defend investment proposals that may eventually make it into the budget# Doing so$ I had to
team with experts to understand )nancial )gures$ technology$ previous experiences$ potential outcomes$
implications of all those outcomes$ and synthesize them 9most of the time$ quickly: to make
recommendations to my leadership#
;
;
;
;
;
;
•Adaptability# I went from working international issues to performing budget functions at work# Very
di&erent functional skill sets# I am asked periodically to perform other jobs even though they are not in my
job jar# Working in a dynamic workplace has been tremendously bene)cial to my ability to adapt# Being
able to support di&erent priorities successfully for me has been a challenge 9and for those who know$ you
know whyAI have !. balls in the air at one time and it takes a signi)cant amount of energy to keep all of
them alo6:# Now I can do it$ no problem# I apply this all the time in Greek dance#
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
For example$ my wife and I just started a new dance program 9and here is my shameless plug for the
Byzantio Greek Dance and Cultural Arts Program at St# Katherine Greek Orthodox Church$ in Falls Church$
VA just outside Washington$ DC:# So we both have been part of strong dance programs in our respective
communities# We know how to help run them# Starting a program in a community where Greek dance has
not been strong requires both Anna and I to adapt 5 to make dancers 9and parents: what to commit to the
program$ be sales people to raise money when you are competing with institutions very well engrained in
the community$ and of course$ all while trying to work and raise a one year old# Yes$ you use all those skills
and adapt#
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
;
•Time Management# Working full time$ raising a one year old$ starting a new dance program$ and having a
life is no easy feat# Managing time wisely is challenging but achievable so long as you have a system# I not
only manage my day$ I manage my time in individual meetings and sessions#
You will laugh$ but I plan what I am going to do in the hour I have with the four and )ve year olds that I
teach# I know what I want out of that practice# At workshops$ if I am told I have two hours to teach$ I plan
accordingly# It does not work every time$ but as long as you are prepared$ adaptable$ and organized 9see
below:$ things have a funny way of working themselves out#
•New organizational skills# With so many moving parts in my life$ this is a necessity# With an organized
house and o%ce$ I am much more e&ective# For me$ the phrase-*a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind*
is actually true#
Bottom lineAit is a two way street# Everything we learn is cumulative and applicable across our professional and
personal activities; knowing this sooner rather than later will allow us to help our younger generations succeed not
only in Greek dance related and professional activities$ but in life#
/"
!"#"#$"!%&'()*!($"+),"-(
#".!)/)+%.0&(0&.1)&2(
Best wishes for a
successful event!
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Balboa A
La Jolla Coronado
Balboa B
Palos Verdes
Fourth Floor
Balboa C
Lido C
Manhattan Redondo
Concourse
Level
Huntington
Laguna
Capistrano
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14
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2
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A
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B
C
Mezzanine
Offices
4
11
Mezzanine
Level
10
Third Floor
9
8
5
7
6
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Green Room
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Ballroom
Level
Pacific Ballroom
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California Ballroom
Second Floor
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13
Avalon
PreReception
Room
5
6
7
Lower Level
Catalina Rooms
3
1
Lobby Level
4
2
!#
San
Clemente Oceanside
competition schedule
competition schedule
workshop schedule
inside back cover