Sep 2009 issue
Transcription
Sep 2009 issue
INSIDE Journalist tells of his time in Iranian Jail page 4 Jim Gianopulos and Nia Vardalos at the LAGFF page 9 W E S T E R N G R E E K A M E R I C A N N E W S M O N T H LY V O L . X X X V, N O . 9 Students’ journey to the Ecumenical Patriarchate SEPTEMBER 2009 2 Hellenic Journal September 2009 S a n F r a n c i s c o ’s On l y Gre e k Food Fe st iv a l Founded in 1975 Board of Directors • Fanis Economidis, President • John Gumas, Vice President • Ted Laliotis, Secretary • Anthony T. Saris, CPA, Treasurer • Kenneth Frangadakis, D.D.S. • George M. Marcus • Steve Padis • Gary M. Vrionis Managing Editor • Frosene Phillips Advisory Editorial Board • Rev. John Bakas, Dean, St. Sophia Cathedral • Robert Bruce, Community Newspapers, Editor Emeritus • George Korkos, M.D. • Markos Tsakopoulos-Kounalakis, Journalist • Virginia Lagiss, Educator • Mort Levine, Community Newspapers, Publisher • Professor Pan Yotopoulos The Hellenic Journal Founder and Publisher, the late Frank Agnost Athens Correspondents • Greg Mazarakis • Alekos Rigas U.S. Correspondents • Theodora Dracopoulos Argue • Athan Karras • Mavis Manus Special Correspondents •Athan Bezaitis • Ceil Koplos • Dena Kouremetis • Virginia Lagiss • Willard Manus • Terry Phillips Greek Language Advisor • Elena Vlahu Art Director • Tula Asselanis Advertising • Yvonne Banis • Teresa Basham • Angie Leventis Administrative Director • Joanna Phillips THE HELLENIC JOURNAL is published monthly for $40 per year by the Western Hellenic Journal, Inc., a non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation, 99 Shotwell Street San Francisco, CA 94103 Western Hellenic Journal, Inc. © 2009 All rights reserved. Contact Info & Address Changes The Hellenic Journal, 455 Canyon Del Rey Road, PMB 305 Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940-5705 Tel: 831-899-3699 • Fax: 831-899-3799 Web: www.hellenicjournal.org Email: [email protected] Deadlines Editorial Submissions and Advertising Space Reservations & Copy Due: First of every month for the next month, i.e., 9/1/09 for October. The Hellenic Journal cannot assume responsibility for unsolicited items. The HJ does not necessarily agree with the opinions expressed herein nor is it to be held responsible for facts as presented by authors and/or advertisers. Friday, September 25 11 am – 10 pm Saturday, September 26 11 am – 10 pm Sunday, September 27 12 noon – 9 pm Annunciation Cathedral 245 Valencia between Duboce and 14th Streets Valet Parking Available Traditional Greek Delicacies • Live Greek Music & Dancing Wine Tasting • Cultural Exhibits • Raffle and More 10% off Business Lunch, Friday, September 25 Tickets and Information: 415-864-8000 • www.annunciation.org Bring the complimentary admission ticket below for FREE entrance into the Food Festival. S a n F r a n c i s c o ’s O n l y G r e e k F o o d F e s t i v a l Annunciation Cathedral 245 Valencia between Duboce and 14th Streets Valet Parking Available Friday, September 25 Saturday, September 26 Sunday, September 27 11 am – 10 pm 11 am – 10 pm 12 noon – 9 pm Traditional Greek Delicacies Live Greek Music & Dancing Wine Tasting, Cultural Exhibits, Raffle and More! Complimentary Admission Ticket Tickets and Information: 415-864-8000 www.annunciation.org September 2009 Hellenic Journal 3 contents Accused of spying. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Letter from the Editor Accused Journalist, Journey to Greece, HJ Online Time National Hellenic Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dear Readers: Journey to Greece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Frosene Phillips Last month the HJ reported the release of Greek journalist Iason Athanasiadis from Evin prison in Editor Iran. Athanasiadis had been in the country covering the elections when he was detained at the airport and then arrested. He was in prison for 21 days. This month, he shares his story on page 4. Last month AHEPA’s Journey to Greece program, along with support from the National Hellenic Society, afforded 70 students the opportunity to visit such venues as Thessaloniki, Sunion and even the Ecumenical Patriarchate (cover photo) in Istanbul, Turkey, for example. A daily blog was maintained by a student correspondent and photos uploaded to document their journey. For the complete story, see page 10. Thanks to your ongoing support (page 5), the HJ plans to expand to an online version where readers can easily access their Greekrelated news as well as enjoy unique features only available online starting October 1. The HJ has partnered with Nektarios Tradas and his team from Artworx for this exciting project. More details to follow next month! And the winner is . . . Anna Vissi appears in L.A.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 page 8 News from Greece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Orthodox News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Greek Festivals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 FDF Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Did You Say Dance?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 NHS hosts its annual Renaissance Weekend page 9 Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Southern California Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Northwest and Pacific Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Business Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 On the cover: Dancing in the family page 11 AHEPA’S 2009 Journey to Greece program included a visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul, Turkey. PHOTO BY JOSEPH SKARZENSKI PRINTING PRINTING stationery ::: collateral ::: brochures newsletters ::: directories ::: adbooks posters ::: signage ::: catalogs ::: books direct mail campaigns ::: event programs trade show displays MULTIMEDIA MULTIMEDIA commercial photography ::: video production audio design and production ::: presentations Nektarios Tradas Owner, Creative Director DESIGN DESIGN & MARKETING print design ::: ads ::: website development business identity ::: specialty projects trade show graphics and exhibits 858.292.6070 www.getartworx.com 4 Hellenic Journal September 2009 Accused of spying: journalist Iason Athanasiadis tells of his time in Iranian jail For 18 days, journalist Iason Athanasiadis was held in Iran’s feared Evin prison, accused of spying for Britain. Now for the first time he can tell his story. T he slap across my jaw from behind me made my ears sting red with anger and embarrassment. I was being punished for daring to glance around the room where I was being questioned – accused of being a spy for Britain. A few days earlier I had been brought, blindfolded, to the heart of Evin Prison, to begin what my captors believed would be the simple process of establishing my interrogation for us.” mouth curling to reveal a flash of gold fillings, and eyes fixed at me in In fact my background is more complex. Born in Greece white anger. to historian parents who met at “Didn’t I tell you never to turn Oxford University – my father around?” he snapped. “Now turn English, my mother Greek – my away from me.” childhood was spent surrounded by My first interrogator was like the paraphernalia of the East. I am that. Sometimes his carefully a citizen of both Greece and Britain, cultivated voice oozed false but have spent little time in the UK. sympathy. Occasionally, his At university I studied Arabic solicitousness appeared downright and Middle Eastern Studies, then sarcastic. When I refused to reveal worked in Egypt, Syria and Yemen the names of my Iranian contacts, as a journalist – before moving to he assured me that they need not Iran in 2004, to study for an MA. fear. “They are fellow Iranian I was there in 2005 when citizens like myself, Mr Iason,” he Iason Athanasiadis purred. “Why would I ever hurt my Mahmoud Ahmadinejad swept “You won’t be traveling tonight.” from nowhere to win the own flesh and blood?” At other times he flew into blind presidency, and I returned to Tehran Two of his colleagues quickly appeared. One flashed me rages, prodding me a threatening grin as he aggressively in the My guards’ violent response shook my hand; the other back while making a point - perhaps produced screams of pain which just regarded me with contempt. “Where are we about the perfidy of resounded around the terminal, going?” I demanded. They supporters of MirHossein Mousavi, the but at least my detention had been had no arrest warrant. “For a long talk,” the first man presidential candidate noticed. crooned. who is still disputing Disappearing into the the outcome of the clutches of the intelligence ministry in June as an accredited journalist election. was not a desirable prospect. I had He may have been angry because to watch him apparently sweep the to get word out of my arrest. I one of his female relatives had been 2009 election again. dropped on to the floor, hung on struck by a stone during the rioting. Tehran was a city on edge on tight to my camera and laptop bags election day, and in the days that Or perhaps he was simply angry followed smoke and teargas mingled and began shouting that I was a because I represented the West. Greek journalist being placed under with cloud from the unseasonally “You think you’re treated so arrest. stormy weather. But the following badly,” he snapped at me, “but My guards’ violent response – Wednesday I had to leave, with just what is our treatment in London hours to spare on my seven day visa. putting me into a neck hold while or Heathrow? Every time in that they hauled me off, punching all Just past passport control came the airport it is four or five hours moment that every reporter dreads. Freelance journalist Iason Athanasiadis in “Please follow me,” said a man IASON ATHANASIADIS Tehran. continued on page 5 wearing a brown shirt and jacket. Photo by Mohammad Khairkhah/upi guilt. I was told to sit down, and keep facing the bare wall in front of me, before my blindfold was removed. On a sheet of official notepaper I was to scribble answers to my interrogator’s questions. What had I been doing in the days since the disputed Iranian election? Who were my contacts? Who had I interviewed and what had they told me? When he stepped outside to talk to intelligence ministry colleagues, I briefly craned my neck to see whether the interrogation suite was equipped with a camera. It was a mistake: quick as a flash the official was back, and I was being punished for my disobedience. My face still smarting, I whirled round to confront him. It was a visceral reaction and the only time in a week of almost daily interrogations that I stared straight into the face of one of my captors. What I saw was not reassuring. A scruffy whiteflecked beard, a contemptuous Lolonis Winery’s Greek Heritage Vineyards are going on their 90th year! 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But the moment he left, the atmosphere changed – and I found myself arrested again. Before the officials could take my telephone this time, I called Mr Garilidis, who was furious. I had to spend a further night in a jail cell at the airport, followed by more negotiations next day – until I was finally safely on board an Iran Air flight to Dubai. As I accepted a plasticwrapped rose from a headscarfed stewardess, I wondered if I would ever dare to return to Tehran. That was what my interrogators had asked me, too – but my ambivalent answer had disappointed them. “You shouldn’t be so negative about your experience,” the senior interrogator said. ? be on the cover of Since 1975 the Hellenic Journal has been the voice that keeps the Hellenic spirit alive in the western communities. Being a non-profit organization, the HJ is not unlike other quality organizations such as the Ballet, Symphony and Public Broadcasting Stations, which depend heavily on financial pledges from the community at-large. In a similar manner, the HJ is seeking pledges and financial support from our community. Become a donor today and receive your next year’s subscription and your name on the cover of our October Issue. q Aesop $60 - $99 q Plato $100 - $199 q Homer $200 - $499 q Aristotle $500 - $999 q Socrates $1,000 + q Amount ______________ To insure the inclusion of your name in the October 2009 Hellenic Journal, please submit your donation by Friday, September 4, 2009. Please mail, fax or email your donation with this entire form to: Western Hellenic Journal, Inc. 455 Canyon Del Rey Rd. #305 Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940-5705 Phone: 831-899-3699 Fax: 831-899-3799 Email: [email protected] Please print your name as you would like it to appear on the cover: Name__________________________________________ Address________________________________________ Golden Gate Boys Choir and Bellringers Wide repertoire, vocal skills, and knowledge of music theory • Performances locally, nationally, and internationally • Largest collection of handbells and chimes on the West Coast Fine Greek Restaurant 422 Tyler Street Monterey • CA • 93940 (831) 655-8108 Petros Mungridis www.epsilonrestaurant.com State ___________________ Zip ___________________ Phone (_________) ______________________________ Email__________________________________________ 1988 OLDEN ATE BOYS CHOIR The Boys learn: teamwork, independence, leadership, self-esteem, prioritizing, responsible decision making, and how to present themselves in public with grace and dignity. Convenient Rehearsal Locations in San Francisco, Oakland, Alameda or Hayward • Local Summer Music Camp • Annual Appearances at Ascension Cathedral and Greek Dinner Nights at Summer Music Camp We invite you to come to one of our Concerts or Rehearsals to see what the choir is all about! For more information view our web page at: www.ggbc.org or phone us at: 510-887-4311 We accept (check one): q Visa q Master Card q American Express Credit Card No. _ ________________________________ Exp. Date ______________________________________ Billing Zip Code__________________________________ Please charge my card $_ _________________________ The HJ is a 501 c3 non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by the law. ! Currently holding auditions to apply for membership for ages 7 and older with unchanged voices City_ __________________________________________ ! the way – produced screams of pain which resounded around the terminal, but at least my detention had been noticed. I was driven straight to Evin Prison, the bête noire of liberal Iranian dissidents. Its current guests include pro-Mousavi politicians, intellectuals, activists and a growing number of journalists. But I was the first non-Iranian journalist taken there in living memory. In arresting me, the Iranians had broken through a psychological barrier. Soon afterwards they would pick up a 23 year-old French teacher, also accusing her of espionage. Old Mercedes buses trundled through the metal gates, carrying tired and bloodied protesters who had been beaten and then arrested. But I was not destined for their overcrowded cells. Instead, I was blindfolded before being taken into a windowless building: Evin’s notorious Section 209, the part of the prison wholly controlled by the Intelligence Ministry. My questioning over the next three weeks was haphazard: my interrogators seemed puzzled by me and my grasp of Farsi, and wholly ignorant of my activities during the three years I had lived, with official blessing, in Iran. Gradually their questions became less specific and more philosophical – and, as the violence against me ceased, time became my greatest enemy. In a cell which remained brightly lit 24 hours a day, I was allowed no reading material, no radio and no other kind of distraction – except a well-thumbed copy of the Koran. Inside it I discovered an aphorism written in Arabic: “Shackled in chains without guilt; except a tendency towards the fields of jihad.” On the wall, the same hand had written: “I seek recourse in Allah from idiots and stupidity.” Eventually, as my interrogators conceded that perhaps I was not, after all, a spy, I was moved to one of Evin’s prisoner processing centres. Rows of blindfolded men sat cross-legged in corridors, some facing the wall, as officials dashed in and out of offices or pulled prisoners out for questioning. I saw men in the communal showers, heard the hubbub of voices from interrogation rooms and noted the doorways of officials’ carpeted rooms, a jumble of slippers and sandals. Intelligence officers pored over surveillance photos from the demonstrations, trying to identify repeat offenders. Then, late on July 5, the door of my cell clicked open. Three jailers stood there. “It’s over,” one of them said. Exhilarated, I kissed all three before being led, blindfolded again, past rows of my fellow inmates’ cell and through the administrative section – to be handed back my clothes, my 5 6 Hellenic Journal September 2009 news from greece athens news agency Vaccination of entire population in Greece The entire population in Greece will be inoculated at state expense, including illegal immigrants, the government announced after a meeting of the inter-ministerial committee on the new flu virus A/H1N1 chaired by prime minister Costas Karamanlis. Health minister Dimitris Avramopoulos and government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros made the announcement in statements to the press after the meeting. Avramopoulos announced that, on the prime minister’s orders, the entire population in the country, in other words all the citizens and residents, including those who are illegally in Greece, will be vaccinated, with the entire expense carried by the state. He noted that the number of vaccines to be procured by Greece will be approximately 24 million. He also said that Greece will be among the first countries to procure the vaccine, adding that vaccination will begin immediately upon formal approval by the EU. The minister explained that vaccination cannot be made obligatory by law, and therefore applications for inoculation will need to be filled out. He added that population groups would be prioritized for vaccination, ARIS EXPORT beginning with medical and nursing staff. During the meeting, Avramopoulos presented to the prime minister and the committee members the updated National Plan on the new flu, stressing that Greece had acted immediately as soon as the global pandemic broke out. “Our way of life must not change,” he said, before outlining the main aspects of the National Plan, which is updated regularly in accordance with the development of the global pandemic, and stressed that the government will not conceal information or figures. “The cultivation of panic and irresponsible politicking observed a short while ago on the new flu undermines the country’s health security and productive process,” Avramopoulos warned, adding that, even at this time, it was positive that the main opposition party (PASOK) was now acting in a spirit of understanding and cooperation. Avramopoulos further announced that there will be hirings of additional doctors and nursing staff, while 100 more intensive care units (ICUs) will be set up. Replying to relevant questions, Avramopoulos said that there are currently four serious cases of the new flu in Greece, and noted that 95 percent of all the cases thus far have recovered completely. “The government and state machine are on alert on a 24-hour basis,” he stressed. The minister further noted the fourdigit telephone hotline “1135” that has been set up to provide information to the public. cooperate within the framework of international treaties and that Greece fully respects human rights and individual freedoms. Antonaros dismissed as “fiction” press speculation on a likely meeting in the United States between the PM and his Turkish counterpart. PM accepts Obama invitation for US visit The government spokesman stated that Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis has accepted an invitation by US President Barack Obama to visit the United States, an invitation made during their bilateral meeting in Strasbourg recently. The spokesman added that details for such meetings are being decided via diplomatic channels. Spokesman Evangelos Antonaros made the comment when asked whether the prime minister will make a formal visit to the United States, where a decision will be made on Greece’s inclusion in the visa waiver program offered by America. Regarding the personal data of the Greek citizens and whether they will be placed at the disposal of the US agencies, Antonaros stressed that Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis made detailed observations on the issue while in Corfu last month. He stated that countries 33 New Private Colleges Licensed to Operate The Education Ministry in Greece gave thumbs up for the operation of about 33 new private colleges in major Greek cities, including Athens, Thessaloniki, Larissa and Herakleion. In autumn, Greece will fall in line with an EU directive and recognize working rights to graduates of private colleges that cooperate with EU universities. Academics and university students expressed their objections. Of the 39 colleges licensed to operate, five have contracts with American universities and eight do not cooperate with any foreign university. This means that the diplomas the above colleges issue will not give working rights to their graduates, since they are not covered by the EU directive. We ship household goods & autos in 20 & 40 ft. containers or small shipments. We sell a Full Line of Electrical Appliances 220 Volt/50 Hz Worldwide Shipping of Household Goods, Personal Effects and Appliances • Multisystem T.V., VCR, DVD • Camcorder • Refrigerator • Washer • Dryer • Dishwasher • Oven • Small Appliances ARIS EXPORT “The Specialists in Appliances for Use in Greece” FROM MILE IRPORT E N A O AND OAKL 1453 Doolittle Drive, San Leandro CA 94577 (510) 636-4646 • Fax: (510) 636-4640 Web Site: www.aris220v.com • E-Mail: [email protected] Tel: (510) 636-4646 Program for Energy Efficient Houses To promote energy conservation the Development Ministry has announced a 400 million euros program to make homes more energy efficient. The program will start on November, 1 and will include all buildings whose building permit was issued prior to July, 1979 provided that 50% of an apartment complex is for residential use. The cost of renovation work in buildings whose objective value is up to 1.500 per square meter will be subsidized from 305 to 50% while tax incentives will be announced for all other buildings. The program which mounts to 400 million euros and covers 13 regions of Greece will be funded by ESPA 2007-2013 and will also mobilize resources totaling 1 billion euros in the construction field to enforce viable development. Greece is the first EU member state to make use of structural funds revised regulations allowing such actions. The program will last two years and will finance either directly or through tax incentives insulation projects, replacement of oil burner with an energy efficient one or gas system or a system using renewable energy sources. Mr. Hatzidakis said that materialization of the program would mean energy savings of up to 70% and all benefits from saving money on energy costs and greener lifestyle. The program is planned to start on November 1, to allow a 3- month period to brief people and competent services. invites Cretans “Omonoia” of Orange County ALL fellow Greek-Americans and interested individuals to join our Club The club is open to all interested people with an interest in the Greek culture. We enjoy monthly get together, along with traditional music, foods, dancing, and culture education. We have a strong support for our youth and cultural events throughout the year. For further information please contact: Cretans “Omonoia” of Orange County 4750 Blue Mountain Drive, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 (714) 970-0199 September 2009 Hellenic Journal 7 orthodox news President and CEO of Trinity Children’s Foundation of America Announces Retirement Colton, CA— After 25 years of service, Fr. Tom P. Avramis announced his retirement in July as the President and CEO of Trinity Children’s Foundation of America, as well as the President of Trinity Youth Services, ACTS for Children and Triad Family Services. Father Tom began his career with the agencies as a board member in 1984 before becoming the Chief Operating Officer, then the Chief Executive Officer, and later became President. When Fr. Tom assumed the CEO position in 1995, Trinity operated numerous programs for children throughout California. During Fr. Tom’s tenure as CEO Trinity expanded and operated programs in seven states (California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Colorado and South Carolina), quadrupling in size and serving 1300 children per day. Throughout his career, he has displayed an intense dedication to caring for and healing children who have been damaged by the scourge of child abuse, neglect and abandonment. Fr. Tom was born in Tucson, Arizona. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminology from the University of Arizona, a Master of Psychology Degree from California State University, East Bay, and received a Master of Divinity Degree, with Distinction from Holy Cross College in Brookline, Massachusetts. While at the Agency’s helm, Fr. Tom represented Trinity on the boards and committees of state and national organizations concerned with the care of children who suffer from the trauma of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as, neglect and abandonment. As a member of the Elios Society, a board member of the Metropolis Council of San Francisco and a board member of FOCUS North America, Fr. Tom will continue to be an active advocate for the welfare of children and society as a whole. Fr. Tom Avramis PHOTO COURTESY OF TCF John Hatzidakis Ted Learakos Kostas Hatzidakis “Financing Homes to Hamburgerstands” Since 1984 Supporting Greeks and Greek Americans All Across North America 1401 N. Tustin Avenue, Suite 155 • Santa Ana, California 92705 (714) 547-3444 • [email protected] Father Thomas J. Zaferes appointed as Proistamenos at Ascension Cathedral in Oakland His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos has announced the appointment of Rev. Father Thomas J. Zaferes as the new Proistamenos of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension in Oakland, California. Father Tom’s first Divine Liturgy in Oakland will be on Sunday, September 13, 2009. “Father Athanasios ‘Tom’ Zaferes is a dedicated servant of the Lord who has demonstrated tremendous leadership throughout his ministry. I am certain that the faithful in Oakland will embrace him with love and respect as he joins them as their spiritual father,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco. For the past 12 years, Father Tom served as proistamenos at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in Syracuse, NY. With over 600 steward families, this is a very active parish where Father Tom led two Bible Study programs each week, a Men’s Study Group, and coordinated a Sunday Night Lecture Series featuring local Orthodox Clergy. The youth ministry at the parish included GOYA, JOY, Sunday School, Greek School, and an OCF chapter at Syracuse University. “I am excited to be returning to the west coast and am humbled to be following during which time the parish tripled in size from 36 to 115 in the footsteps of Father Paris, steward families. Father Tom’s who had a remarkable ministry ministry began in the Metropolis in Oakland for so many years. of San Francisco in the summer The Parish Council and I share the vision and desire to continue of 1983 at Saint Nicholas in Northridge, California. While accomplishing the work of the at Saint Nicholas, Father Tom Church, bringing people closer worked with the GOYA, dance to Christ and ultimately to groups, youth basketball league, salvation in Him,” stated Father YAL, taught religion in the Tom. “I am especially blessed to parochial school, and supervised be serving under His Eminence building maintenance, in Metropolitan Gerasimos, whom addition to his liturgical and I met when I first arrived at the Seminary. He was always a joyful sacramental responsibilities. Father Tom graduated from person, who we turned to for Holy Cross guidance School of and insight Theology in on our path 1983, after to the Holy completing his Priesthood. undergraduate I know studies in that I can 1978 with a continue Composite to rely Bachelor of upon His Arts Degree Eminence in Political as a Science and spiritual Theology father and from Hanover mentor as I College in begin this Rev. Father Thomas J. Zaferes southeastern new chapter Indiana. He is blessed with in my ministry.” a talented and loving wife, Just prior to moving to Presvytera Julie (Hourdakis), Syracuse in 1991, Father Tom who is a registered nurse, led a mission to Ghana where his team constructed a residence and also has a Bachelor of Arts degree from California and offices for the church in State University – Northridge the capital city of Accra. Upon in Religious Studies. Father his return, he continued his Tom and Presvytera Julie ministry at the parish of Saint have four children – Demetri, Sophia in San Antonio, Texas, Katerina, and twins Melissa and which was blessed with over 50 Christopher. Father Tom is an converts in a three-year period. amateur photographer, football Father Tom also served at fan, and enjoys reading novels Annunciation Greek Orthodox and biographies. Church in Chattanooga, TN, We are your local advisor. Our main focus is to provide Legal and Tax advice to Greek Americans who have property, or other matters in Greece. We are unconditionally committed to help our clients to become aware of their Rights and Obligations in Greece and to protect their interests through a long and trusted relationship. We specialize on: LEGAL ADVICE, ESTATE PLANNING ADVICE, REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS, INHERITANCE, TAX PLANNING ADVICE, IMMIGRATION SERVICES Please call us for a COMPLIMENTARY consultation. …work with people who love what they do Law-Tax in Greece Consulting, Inc. 50 W. San Fernando Street, Suite 900 San Jose, CA 95113 Email: [email protected] Tel: 408 918 5388 Fax: 408 998 2102 www.lawtaxingreece.com 8 Hellenic Journal September 2009 community 13. GABBY AWARDS DEBUT IN CHICAGO O ver 1200 people descended upon the windy city of Chicago from throughout the country and abroad for the first Gabby Awards to celebrate “Greek America’s Best and Brightest Stars.” Likened to the “People’s Choice Awards,” the Gabby’s began with an 85-member academy of nominators whose votes resulted in the top five in each category and followed with a voting-enabled website which logged over 100,000 votes – the results of which were counted and tabulated by an independent auditing firm. Gabby Awards went to Boston-based businessman George Sakellaris (Business & Entrepreneurism); Indiana-based author Harry Mark Petrakis (Arts & Culture); ultra-marathon man and best-selling author Dean Karnazes (Athletics); Drexel University’s Constantine Papadakis (Education and Academia Award) given posthumously and accepted by his daughter Maria Papadakis; Curator in Charge Carlos Picon accepted for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City (Promotion of Hellenism); actress Melina Kanakaredes (Performing Arts) who also served the event as the Honorary Co-Chair, along with acclaimed fashion designer John Varvatos; Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias (Politics). Oscar winning actress Olympia Dukakis received a Lifetime Achievement Award. Gregory Pappas, Gabby Awards founder and publisher of Greek American Magazine, the host of the event, presented the Philanthropy Award to Pittsburgh businessman John Rangos. The award was accepted by his grandchildren Nicholas and Virginia Rangos. The awards program was followed by dinner and a performance by Greece’s Glykeria and Kostas Karafotis at the Hilton where celebrities and guests danced into the night. Proceeds to benefit the Greek American Foundation’s Hellenic Legacy Fund. For more details, visit gabbyawards.com. 12. 1. Virginia and Nicholas Rangos 2. Carlos Picon on the Red Carpet 3. Melina Kanakaredes 4. Harry Mark Petrakis 5. Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias 6. Anna Davlantes and Jane Monzures 7. Glykeria opens the Awards Show 8. Kostas Karafotis 9. Dean Karnazes 10. Maria Papadakis 11. George Sakellaris and Olympia Dukakis on the Red Carpet 12. Nia Vardalos & Alexi Georgoulis 13. Kalomira Sarantis and Gabby Producer Gregory Pappas at the After Party 11. 10. PHOTOS BY CHRIS SAVAS/SOFIA SPENTZAS 9. 7. 8. 5. 1. 3. 4. 2. Orthodox Bookstore & Gift Shop ✝ Anastasia Kalivas 800 N. Glendale Avenue Glendale, CA 91206 Phone (818) 551–0544 • Fax (818) 551–9297 www.lifegivingspring.com • Hours: Tues–Sat 9-6 6. Artists Call to Hellenic International Artists’ Foundation CELEBRATING OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE For upcoming shows, contact: Michael Genung, Executive Director P.O. Box 303, Fair Oaks, CA 95628 916.342.2971 • 888.439.9998 [email protected] September 2009 Hellenic Journal community Renaissance Weekend: NHS gathers in West Palm Beach PALM BEACH, Fla. – Florida Gov. Charlie Crist received a warm welcome from more than 150 fellow Greek Americans attending the National Hellenic Society’s Renaissance Weekend at the Mara- Lago Club. The 1. governor spoke about his Greek background and how his heritage shaped his values, and then met the attendees. The guests enjoyed a gala banquet and live Greek “glendi” dance. The National Hellenic Society (NHS) celebrated Greek heritage at the Palm Beach Ritz Carlton with panel discussions on Hellenism and Media, moderated by Vicki Liviakis, anchor for KRON 4 television in San Francisco. The panel included Dr. Angelyn Balodimas-Bartolomei, a leading sociologist who presented her findings on modern Greek Americans, Nicholas Gage, the awardwinning author of “Eleni,” and Frosene Phillips, editor of The Hellenic Journal and a columnist in San Francisco/Bay Area newspapers. Several guests attended a political panel moderated by Endy Zemenides, a prominent attorney and political consultant from Chicago, former Congressman Mike Bilirakis (R-Fla.), Congesswoman Dina Titus (DNev.) and Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias. Dr. Lou Markos wowed 1.Dr. Angelyn BalodimasBartolomei, Frosene Phillips, Nicholas Gage, Moderator Vicki Liviakis 2. Dr. Louis Markos, Classics Professor 3. Comedian Basil Katsikis 4. Art Dimopoulos and NHS Executive Director Timothy Maniatis 5. Mr. & Mrs. John Calamos 6. Dr. & Mrs. George Korkos 7. Roberta Economidis and Alexandria Marcus 8. Angelo Tsakopoulos and Vicki Liviakis 9. George Marcus, Florida Governor Charlie Crist, Theofanis Economidis, Paul Sagotis 10. Christina Padis and Jeanette Saris PHOTOS BY CHRIS SAVAS 8. 2. 4. Los Angeles Greek Film Festival announces Orpheus Award Winners T he 3rd annual Los Angeles Greek Film Festival (LAGFF) announced its award winners with GUINNESS directed by Alexis Kardaras as the winner of the Orpheus Award for Best Feature. Dimitris Athiridis’ T FOR TROUBLE AND THE SELF ADMIRATION SOCIETY was selected as Best Documentary and Nikias Chryssos’ THE GRANDFATHER as Best Short Film. Special Jury Commendations were given to Constantina Voulgaris’ VALSSE SENTIMENTALE in the feature category, Adam Schmedes’ CHAMELEON BEACH in the documentary category and Stefan Georgiou’s WE CALL HER DAISY in the short film category. The Audience Award went to James Chressanthis’ NO SUBTITLES NECESSARY: LASZLO & VILMOS. The LAGFF showcases new films from Greece, Cyprus and filmmakers of Greek descent worldwide. The festival enjoyed enthusiastic audience attendance and full theatres throughout its four-day run, with screenings held at the Egyptian Theatre. 1. Penelope Spheeris, Marcos Holevas, Angeliki Giannakopoulos, Sid Ganis 2. No Subtitles Necessary Panel with Sharon Stone and Director 2. 9. 10. Eva Sogotis Realtor 1440 Chapin Avenue, Suite 200 • Burlingame, CA 94010 Direct: 650.931.2953 • Cell: 650.302.8291 • Fax: 650.931.2099 [email protected] • www.evasogotis.com Servicing your Real Estate needs in San Francisco and the Peninsula. 5. 3. Renaissance Weekend guests with his tour-de-force presentation entitled “The Heirs of Athens” – tracing modern day democracy to its roots in ancient Greece, drawing particular attention to Hellenism’s relevancy and vibrancy as mirrored in NHS modern life, continued on page 19 6. 7. 9 “My top priority is to provide all my clients with expertise, superior service, quality and dedication, so I can always meet their needs and continuously surpass their expectations.” Eva Sogotis, Realtor 1. James Chressanthis 3. Fox Studios CEO Jim Gianopulos and Greek actress Mimi Denisi 4. Corinna Tsopei, Dean of St. Sophia Cathedral Fr. John Bakas, Margarita Mavromichalis 5. LAGFF Founders Angeliki Giannkopoulos and Ersi Danou 3. 4. 5. We Don’t Work for an Insurance Company We Work for You! • Homes • Condos • Renters • Earthquake • Flood • All Businesses • Restaurants • Commercial email: [email protected] • Life • Medical Serving California Since 1956 Over $11,000,000 In Claims Paid CDI 0585599 • Autos 200 Valley Drive, Suite 20, Brisbane 94005 Fax 415/467-9605 VERREOS Insurance Agency 800-464-1397 10 Hellenic Journal September 2009 Fourth Annual AHEPA Journey to Greece Program Successfully Underway National Hellenic Society Sponsorship Will Expand Program’s Academic Curriculum 70 Students Participate from 35 Universities PHOTO BY JOSEPH SKARZENSKI WASHINGTON, DC - In its fourth year, the AHEPA Journey to Greece Program, in cooperation with the University of Indianapolis, Athens Campus, is off to another successful start, completing the first of two sessions; and will expand to include additional venues of study thanks to a $13,000 sponsorship provided by the National Hellenic Society (NHS), announced Supreme President Nicholas A. Karacostas. “We are thrilled and grateful to the National Hellenic Society for its generous sponsorship of the AHEPA Journey to Greece Program,” said Karacostas. “The sponsorship is a testament to the program’s credibility and ability to provide young scholars with fully transferable college credits while gaining the experience of lifetime abroad. It is also an excellent example of collaboration within the American Hellenic community to benefit the youth.” “The National Hellenic Society’s collaboration with AHEPA serves as a blueprint for Greek American organizations working together to achieve common objectives benefiting the next generation,” wrote Fanis Economidis, chair, NHS’s Program Committee to Journey to Greece Program Director Dr. James F. Dimitriou. According to Dr. Dimitriou, the generosity of NHS allowed students to expand their Las Vegas’ 3rd Annual Greek Folk Dance Seminar St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church 20, 21, and 22, 2009 November Stimulating and unique material will be taught by our talented instructors Featuring Kyriakos Moisidis from Thessaloniki He will present exciting material from very distinctive areas exclusively for this seminar. (The Second Instructor will be announced at a later date.) Instruction throughout the entire weeked. Saturday evening, Nov. 21st - Glendi with LIVE music so you can dance and sing the night away! More information will be available soon Contact the church at: 702-221-8245 or check the church website for updates, www.vegasgreekorthodox.com. If you know anyone that has attended the past two years, you’ll know you won’t want to miss it! educational horizons as the curriculum included study at venues such as the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Thessaloniki, Meteroa, and Sounion. For example, students learned firsthand about the impact and relevance of Byzantium, and also had the opportunity to meet with His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, because of NHS’ sponsorship. The 2009 Journey to Greece Program had two sessions. The first one commenced July 5 and concluded July 18. The second session commenced July 20 and concluded August 12. The 2009 Program had 70 student participants representing 35 universities from 14 states and Canada. In the four years since the program was resurrected under Dr. Dimitriou students have represented 51 universities from 27 states and Canada. “The success of the AHEPA Journey to Greece Program is due to organizations such as the AHEPA Educational Foundation, NHS, The Next Generation Initiative, and of course, the University of Indianapolis-Athens Campus, all coming together to work toward a common goal,” said Dr. Dimitriou. Follow the Journey to Greece Program online at www.ahepa.org/ journey, or visit the blog, http:// journeytogreece2009.wordpress. com, being written by Joseph Skarzenski, a Next Generation Initiative-sponsored Student Correspondent of the Journey to Greece Program. The National Hellenic Society The National Hellenic Society celebrates Hellenic heritage by sponsoring and organizing 31st ANNUAL CONTRA COSTA Greek Food & Wine Festival SEPT. 11 u 12 u 13 Fri. 5-11 p.m., Sat. Noon-11 p.m., Sun. Noon-8 p.m. 1955 Kirker Pass Road, Concord (925) 676-6967 Come Be Greek For A Day u Authentic Greek Food & Wine u Greek Dancing u Pastries made by the Yiayias u A Children’s Area u Featuring Live Music by Mediterranean Soul www.ccgreekfest.com Free admission with ad programs and activities that promote and preserve the values and ideals of our Hellenic culture thereby enriching our community and nation. For more information, visit www. nationalhellenicsociety.org. The University of IndianapolisAthens Campus The University of Indianapolis, Athens Campus was charted in 1989, with the purpose of offering a quality American education experience. Since its inception, the University has grown to become one of the leaders in higher education in Greece. As well as its 39 bachelor’s degrees and 11 master’s degrees the UIndy Athens offers the Odyssey in Athens semester study abroad program. UIndy Athens also partners with AHEPA to offer the Journey to Greece Program and many other institutions in the US and other countries to create special study abroad experiences for students. For more information, visit www. uindy.gr. The Next Generation Initiative The Next Generation Initiative is an independent, nonprofit educational foundation committed to helping today’s students become tomorrow’s leaders by helping the young men and women of the next generation gain the skills and experience their careers will demand – and the global perspective that future leadership will require – through internships which match young leaders in their fields of interest. For more information, visit www.hellenext. org. spotlight Anemos of Oakland By Giuliana Harris A nemos of Ascension Cathedral in Oakland, CA always has people talking about how great they are. Their Pontic and Tsestos have been a hit. When the announcer calls out ANEMOS, the crowd goes wild. Applause hits, feet stomp, and cheering fill the room. Anemos is no stranger to winning; they have won Sweepstakes four times. For brothers Nick (18) and Stavro Victor (16), dancing has been a huge part of their lives. They first won sweepstakes at the young ages of 11 and 9. Dancing keeps Nick and Stavro in their culture and faith and they have created life long friendships. Kefi shined through the boys as they spoke of their dance group. They both say that aside from performing, the social aspect is a highlight of the weekend. “The glendi’s are definitely one of my favorite parts,” said Nick. “Yeah me too, seeing all of our friends!” said Stavro. Their favorite memory was winning Sweepstakes for the first time. Demitra (13), their younger sister dances for Astrape. This year, Astrape placed third in Advanced Juniors. At FDF, not only do the dancers and singers support each other, they have their family’s support The legendary Anemos Yiayias. too. Brothers, Sisters, Theos, Left to right: Effie “Kefi” Makris, Lyn McIntyre (Kosta & Stefan Theas, Cousins, Papous, Makris), Demitra Victor (Nick, Stavro Nounas, and Nounos come & Demitra Victor) and Demetra Sargetis (Alex & Lefteris Sargetis to cheer their family on. and Nick, Stavro & Demitra Victor). But you cannot forget the PHOTO BY GEORGE MYLORDOS YiaYias! At the Opening while you’re up can you get me Ceremonies, His Eminence some nero, parakalo?” Metropolitan Gerasimos said he Family members… make sure shared a flight with Effie Makris, you come out and support FDF YiaYia of Kosta and Stefan Makris. His Eminence quoted her as “FDF’s 2010, January 14-18. For additional info: www.yourfdf.org Cheerleader.” She was at every ________________ performance waving her pompoms. Sunday night while Thanos Petrelis Giuliana Harris is the HJ’s FDF was singing, Effie got on stage and youth correspondent. started dancing with him! The Anemos YiaYias had every meal together and I had the privilege to eat with them one night. They recounted the day’s events, inserting Greek in the conversation “Simbethera, Thanos theletai nafati?” Petrelis and Effie Makris “Simbethera, September 2009 Hellenic Journal Festival Season Continues 2009 Greek Festivals Each month the Hellenic Journal will identify which Greek American community is presenting a festival to its larger community. To list your festival, call 831899-3699, fax 831-899-3799, or email [email protected]. CALIFORNIA Annunciation Church Sacramento • September 4, 5 & 6 916-443-2033 annunciationsac.org Belmont Greek Festival Church of the Holy Cross September 5, 6 & 7 650-591-4447 goholycross.org/Festival St. George – Bakersfield September 11 & 12 661-325-8694 • forministry.com/ USCAGOARCSGG5 St. Basil 5oth Anniversary Greek Festival - Stockton September 11, 12 & 13 209-478-7564 • gosaintbasil.org LA Greek Fest 2009 Saint Sophia Cathedral Los Angeles September 11, 12 & 13 323-737-2424 • lagreekfest.com Santa Cruz Festival Prophet Elias September 11, 12 & 13 831-429-6500 Greek Festival by the Sea Assumption of the Virgin Long Beach September 5, 6 & 7 562-494-8929 • Assumptionlb.org Contra Costa Greek Festival St. Demetrios – Concord September 11, 12 & 13 925-676-6967 stdemetrios.ca.goarch.org Monterey Bay Greek Festival St. John the Baptist – Salinas September 5, 6 & 7 831-424-4434 montereybaygreekfestival.com Sts. Constantine & Helen Annual Greek Festival Cardiff-By-The-Sea FESTIVAL SEASON continued on page 13 11 12 Hellenic Journal September 2009 did you say dance? By Athan Karras Oompah! Oompah! Pause! It’s Polka time, No Grammy’s for me! T he National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences has recently announced it was eliminating the Best Polka category from the Grammy Awards. This prestigious organization is now beginning to level its award to some industry hipsters as they have become the voice of selecting what is considered to be the “it” in music reaching out to a global domination of trends for the forthcoming generations. By deciding that it can no longer continue to recognize music with a strong association to a dance form, indicates a lack of tolerance for music that distinctly represents an ethnic culture still appreciated and remains a vital cultural force. It also deigns to signal that ethnic forms will slowly be eased out of any representation in such award contests. The current musical commercial proponents are dominating this prestigious award to further their interests that are ignoring the musical trends of yesteryear, which provided an inspiration for generations. Music has become an integral part of our lives and is incorporated in almost every activity of life. No longer is it restricted for entertainment. Each generation has dug its heels to secure their legendary musical traditions with colorful diversity. The masterful classical music, which has moved us for generations, continues throughout the centuries of musical giants such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach to name a few, all who resorted to traditional music as their source. Popular music was also resourcefully influenced by traditional ballads and popular folk dances transitioned to rhythmic renditions in its time. By taking a brief look at the popular rage of the 20’s, followed by the rise of jazz, ready to ease our social unrest, and with the emergence of the Big Bands which paved the way for Sinatra’s magic, etc., the Beatles, Elvis and just recently the enormous global outreach of a Michael Jackson, King of Pop, have brought a whirlwind of musical wonderment. The Jackson moonwalk shuffle/spin, still entices fans until the next “Pied Piper” emerges. The magical musical “elixir” is a necessary diet for man to feel being reborn, reunited with one’s spirit. To hum, sing or dance, a realm of that other world we long for and momentarily depart from the dire reality we face daily. As dancers, we move at an inspired moment with musicians helping us “set up shop” so we can continue dancing. Today the dance resources and disciplines available have us spinning on magical dance floors treading our joy and excitement with grace, flair, and an ethnic abandon. Momentarily, we become influences we ought to subscribe. Musical traditions have been the hallmark of all cultures with esteemed values, experiences we carried as an emblem necklace with constant vigilance. We have proudly marched step by step with dances that are inspired aspirations for our lives. Here is proof again that how for so many years the Grammy Committee has always tried to show some courtesy to the great variety that has made them into musical giants. Now with their award shows they feel the necessity to eliminate from its category the best polka album. Has the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences become the solitary institution that will guide the tastes and the cultural musical influences of the nation as being only those they consider are the hit tunes of the hip-hop generation and the various other new genres that teenagers have become enamored of? This is the condition of placing on such scales of considerations for these award shows that are driven by the likes of what is the best seller. We owe a great debt to the music industry with its aggressive policy of recording music from everything under the sun. Much of the music of the past would have been The magical musical “elixir” is a necessary diet for man to feel being reborn, reunited with one’s spirit. instant gods or heroes, or look-alike Gene Kellys, Fred Astaires or Ginger Rogers. Now the only time we can dream of such fantasies by watching the dance contests on PBS or annual contests for the thrill – the experience of living that joy is now a visual dance-therapy session. Everything seems to be geared to the inevitable view of seeing dance and all its accompanying fascination. The music industry and its moguls control the vast variety of musical styles and forms worldwide. They are bent on dictating which cultural L a s Ve g a s G r e e k Fo o d Fe s t i v a l Only $20. 00 a ticke t! 2010 Mercedes Benz C-300 SPORT SEDAN Located at and Sponsored by WIN THIS BRAND NEW St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church 5300 S. El Camino Road Las Vegas, NV 89118 www.lasvegasgreekfestival.com Festival Dates & Times September 17-20, 2009 Thursday, September 17 5 pm – 10 pm Friday, September 18 3 pm – 11 pm Saturday, September 19 noon – 11 pm Sunday, September 20 noon – 10 pm Drawing September 20 at 9 p.m. Winners Need Not Be Present. Tickets on sale at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church. Mail orders & credit cards accepted. Thank you for supporting our Fundraising Festival. 2 Live Greek s Band Call: 702/889-6376 for more information 4 Days of Fun • Another Reason to Come to Las Vegas 10 Acres to Explore — Outdoor Entertainment, and Much More • Complete Greek Dinners • A La Carte Specialties • Greek Wine, Beer & Beverages • Delicious Greek Pastry • Expanded Kids Fun Park • Kaffenion; Freshly Served Frappes • Shopping • Greek Folk Dancers • Tour Our Magnificent Church lost forever, but now we have such recordings which exist in libraries and various archives. We can find almost anything these days thanks to the Internet as well. But disavowing the “polka” category from the awards is like a slap in the face for a musical form that has existed for ages. The ¾ time signature which became the pinnacle of the waltz, the mazurka and other dances, although Johan Strauss would not be too proud to compose music to polka time tunes. This could mark the beginning of turning our backs to folk music, disregarding its value and the significant role it has played and still plays in the world of music. Unfortunately this is happening all over the world, reinforced by an industry which appears to be guided solely by what sells, not by what the fundamental musical traditions are which ought to be addressed and recognized. Not long ago I was looking for recorded ballroom dance music but unfortunately since the 40’s and 50’s very little have been produced. It would seem respectably ok not to be able to find such music readily available, but to consider it extinct merely because it isn’t a hot seller is like wiping out a cultural expression from the face of the earth. I have had similar experiences, searching for music referenced from various islands and provinces of Greece. Understandably the music stores can only stock their shelves with music that sells, which is how it is. Music of the world’s cultures ought to have some esteemed recognizable merit where such institutions can archive and promote them. The rules and guidelines for those seeking professional careers in music can only be enriched with the traditions of the past. The musical idioms of certain cultures still have certain elements to offer to the musical world and to worldwide audiences. An instructional DVD of basic Greek Dances taught by Athan Karras is available. For more information contact Xasapiko@ prodigy.net. Email Athan Karras at [email protected] September 2009 Hellenic Journal 13 calendar Arts, Events, Lectures & Entertainment FESTIVAL SEASON continued from page 11 September 12 & 13 760-942-0920 stsconstantinehelen.com St. Anthony’s Greek Festival Pasadena • September 18, 19 & 20 626-449-6943 • saint-anthonys.org Saints Constantine and Helen Lancaster • September 19 & 20 661-945-1212 saintsconstantineandhelen.org 44th Annual Greek Festival Annunciation – Modesto September 19 & 20 209-522-7694 • goannunciation.org Napa-Solano Greek Community Sts. Constantine & Helen-Vallejo September 19 & 20 • 707-642-6916 home.pacbell.net/stscandh/ St. Nectarios Greek Festival Covina • September 25, 26 & 27 626-967-5524 saintnectariosbrotherhoodmission.org A Taste of Greece Annunciation - San Francisco September 25, 26 & 27 415-864-8000 annunciation.org A Taste of Greece, St. Paul – Irvine September 25, 26 & 27 949-733-2366 • irvinegreekfest.com A Weekend In Greece St. Katherine - Elk Grove September 26 & 27 916-683-3443 • saintkatherine.org NEVADA Las Vegas Greek Food Festival St. John the Baptist September 17, 18, 19 & 20 702-248-3896 lasvegasgreekfestival.com UTAH Salt Lake City Greek Festival Prophet Elias and Holy Trinity Cathedral • September 10, 11, 12, & 13 • 801-328-9681 • gocslc.org WASHINGTON Holy Trinity Church Spokane • September 24, 25 & 26 509-328-9310 holytrinityspokane.org/festival.html St. Demetrios Church Seattle • September 25, 26 & 27 206-325-4347 • seattlegreekfestival.com September 9 • Wednesday San Francisco, CA BAGABA Networking Social. The Bay Area Greek American Business Association will host a networking social at the Owl Tree, 601 Post Street, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. No host bar, hors d’oeuvres hosted by the Association. All members and guests invited. Membership to the Association is only $75 per year, sign up at the event; $5 members, $10 non-members. Ample street and paid parking available. BART nearby. For further info, visit bagaba. org. dancing, nature walks, field trips to the Monastery of the Theotokos the Life Giving Spring, the giant Sequoias and other local attractions, campfires and songs, cooking classes, arts and crafts, the ever-famous talent show, stimulating lectures, and much more. All rooms come with a private bath, air-conditioning and heating, and twin beds. All the lodge rooms, dining and classrooms are located together on level ground. All meals are included in the registration fee. For more information or to register, call 559-338-2103 or email info@ stnicholasranch.org. October 25 • Sunday Oakland, CA September 21-25 Monday-Friday Dunlap, CA organization established in honor of the late educator George Daskarolis, is supporting a group of students to successfully complete their K-12 education and continue on to a university. A fundraising event will be held in the Paris Center at Ascension Cathedral, 4700 Lincoln Avenue in the Oakland hills. Make a donation or join the festivities. For more details, visit gdmef.org or interact with the GDF on Facebook. October 29 • Thursday San Francisco, CA Top Dos and Don’ts for Lawyers. The Hellenic Law Society will host an evening with the Honorable George V. Spanos at the historic John’s Grill in downtown San Francisco. Judge Spanos, who serves on the Contra Costa Superior Court, will share his insights from the bench. For more information call 415-2428830 or visit helleniclaw.org. Coming Soon... GDF Fundraiser-Auction. The George Daskarolis Foundation (GDF), an educational non-profit Fr. Thomas J. Paris Senior Camp. Join the seniors from around the Metropolis of Superstar ANNA VISSI will perform SF at the Fr. Thomas J. on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the L.A. Paris Senior Camp held Greek Fest held on the grounds of St. Sophia Cathedral. Vissi at St. Nicholas Ranch. The celebrates Greek culture with the 5-day/4-night Senior Week Los Angeles community, the same program includes food, city she recorded half of her 25th studio album, Apagorevmeno (Sony Greece). The album has gone Platinum and continues to flourish in sales throughout her current Greek tour. Anna Vissi has been a player in the music industry since 1973. Although her popularity holds strongest in Europe, Vissi has cracked the American charts with her 2005 single, “Call Me.” Continuing her conquest of the U.S., she will return to Los Angeles in the fall to work on her upcoming International release. For more details, visit lagreekfest.org. NAPA – SOLANO GREEK COMMUNITY presents Greek Fcoming oodsoon... Festival! F A October 2, 3 & 4 Free Admission! Friday: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Come Feast Sunday: 12 p.m.-7 p.m. Dance With Come Feast And Dance With Us! • Authentic Greek Food! • Live Greek M Authentic Greek Food! • Live Greek Music! • Dancing! Dancing! • Entertainment! • Entertainme Featuring: Experience the Flavors of Greece Greek Festival 2009 Saturday, Sept. 19 • 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 • 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Greek Community Center 1244 Alabama Street, Vallejo (Near Tennessee & Amador) Come join us at our church and bring your appetite! Save M Pre-Sale Avail Come joinShopping! us at our Expanded Vendors for Great church and bring your appetite! Event Located at: Call for info! Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church of Castro Valley FREE ADMISSION Fabulous food and pastries Dancing to Live Music Greek Deli Children’s Fun Zone Church Tours For more information, please call (707) 642-6916. Proceeds to benefit Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church Even 20104 Cas 20104 Center Street, Castro Valley Call 510-581-8950 for info or visit us at www.festival.cvresurrection.org Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church of Castro Valley 880 C 238 14 Hellenic Journal September 2009 southern california notes By Mavis Manus John Vassiliou C amel was the mode of travel in the 1850’s and that’s how my great grandfather (on my mother’s side) traveled between his home town of Kayseri and Odessa. He grew tobacco in Kayseri in the stunningly exotic district of Cappadocia, and set up a home and tobacco factory in Odessa, Russia. I was told that the Prodromos name (my mother’s family name) could still be deciphered on the walls of the factory as late as the 70’s.” The speaker is John Vassiliou, now living in Los Angeles and recalling his dramatic family history. “During the Bolshevik Revolution my great grandmother and her children survived by moving back to Kayseri but the rest of the family were either imprisoned or killed by the Russians because of their class. “My great-uncle, Paul Avram, came to America first. When he landed in New York the Greek community advised him to go to North Carolina as they said Southerners had very few restaurants,” said Vassiliou. It was good advice; on arrival he opened one on Main Street. The building is still standing. Paul holds the distinction of not only selling the first hot dogs and hamburgers in Winston-Salem back in the ‘20s, but also of owning the first movie theater. In Greek family style, he then brought over his brother Cosmos and his two brothers-in-law, one being Vassiliou’s grandfather, George Prodromos. The two brothers settled into his business. His grandfather, a shoemaker by trade, actually stood out front and repaired shoes. One day a banker came by and was so impressed with his work that he set him up in a store that he ran for over 20 years. Gradually, over the next five years they brought their families to the U.S. Vassiliou’s mother, Alexandra Prodromos, had vivid memories of sailing from Athens on the maiden voyage of The Edison in 1928, entering Ellis Island and then riding the dusty train south to North Carolina. Vassiliou’s father’s family is from the village of Anoria on the island of Euboa. His grandfather John Vassiliou had his own ship and traded with England before WWII, so it was natural for his father Bill and his brothers to work on merchant ships. But WWII was a dangerous time for merchant ships which were constantly under attack by the Germans, Temecula Greek Festival Live music by SYNTHESIS Food and Greek Pastries • Wine • Dancers • Shops • Arts • Crafts • Gifts Temecula Community Center 30875 Rancho Vista Rd., Temecula, CA 92591 For more information, call 951-296-6207 or [email protected] St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Festival Location Close By Wineries, Old Town and 20 Hotels to stay at so he jumped ship in New York and found work in the restaurant of the Waldorf Astoria. Uncle Sam eventually ‘invited’ him to join the Army where he served as a cook in the Philippines and in Panama. After the war he was stationed at Fort Ord in Greensboro, NC. The Greek church in nearby WinstonSalem sponsored a Valentine’s Day Dance for all the Greek soldiers. John Vassiliou’s grandmother (center) Katina Vassiliou’s passport photo That’s where he met from August, 1928 with the Edison, the ship she sailed to America on. Pictured: Left to right are Vassiliou’s aunts, Fevronia and Angelina and his Vassiliou’s mother. mother Alexandra. It was love at first PHOTO COURTESY OF J. VASSILIOU sight. “My dad died Vassiliou, moved to Los when I was two,” says No camel, train, or ship for Angeles in 1984 from Florida Vassiliou, “so I only knew him him, though. He drives a Ford after he got a job offer from a through the love in my mother’s Escape. management company, but after heart, which she carried to her 19 years the digital downloading grave.” ■■■ eventually ended the music Vassiliou grew up in business, as he knew it. Greensboro and graduated In a difficult and changing Vassilou is the Production from Page High School, but economy, people have to Manager at the Music Center he considers that his real think creatively and Helene and makes multi-tasking seem education came from actual K. Liatsos, foreseeing a major like child play. “I have different work experience. “I have been shift in the workplace, started job descriptions at the Music involved in music since Jr. up her Business Management Center: one is to organize the High school, at first playing company in 1987 in an effort production for about 40 shows bass guitar in bands and later to help small businesses be a year.” He meets with the working for recording artists.” more organized and work producer and/or conductor and He spent almost all of his adult more efficiently. In addition to helps them determine the best life in the music business. consulting services, she focused way to present their show. He He and his wife, Ann Crews in on home-based businesses prepares a labor budget and in the early 90’s and wrote a schedules the workers. Then course on How to Start and on show day he makes sure Operate Your Own HomeOctober the event runs smoothly, stays Based Business. “I took it to 3rd and within the budget and starts and local colleges and have been 4th, 2009 ends on time. teaching throughout Los Angeles His second responsibility is and environs ever since.” She Saturday to oversee all of the commercial expanded the course to create 11 am - 9 pm shoots at the Music Center. “We a nationwide, online program Sunday have some movie and TV shows that reaches the USA, Canada, 11 am - 8 pm that film scenes at the different Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. theaters here and we do many “Two years ago I embarked on commercials and photo shoots,” another project,” she added, “I he said. produced a DVD (How to Start What free time he has and Operate Your Own Homehe plays couch guitar and Based Business), which is selling works out at the gym twice a on my website and through week; most Saturdays he gets Amazon.com. This will soon be together with a group of friends distributed in bookstores and to play basketball. He also office supply stores.” volunteers with his Homeowners Born in Lamia, Greece and Association and with his church. raised in New York City, Liatsos’ Admission $2 His favorite hangout goes back Free Parking to his first love – concerts at SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NOTES continued on page 15 McCabe’s Music Store. September 2009 Hellenic Journal SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NOTES continued from page 14 first love was theater and at the age of 11 appeared in an Off-Broadway play. Theatrical studies and experience followed in New York; in Los Angeles, the Greek community has enjoyed her performances in both English and Greek plays over the past 15 years. “I have worked from home for two decades,” said Liatsos, “and the most rewarding aspect of my business is helping others do the same. My position on the current economic trend is – I refuse to participate! There is never a recession of ideas, creativity or initiative. My philosophy is “business as usual” – once you understand that business cycles go up and down, you are already a winner. “Most people know how to provide a service or make a product, but they don’t know how to manage their business, and that is where I come in – to help them put together their business so it works right and is positioned for growth.” But she warns, “A problem when you work out of your home is maintaining the balance between home life and work life. I emphasize this to all my clients because, enjoying life is genetic to my Greek blood!” Organizations such as Women for Hire and Entrepreneur Magazine have engaged her to speak on the subject of Entrepreneurship and Home-Based Business. Pierce College and West L.A. College invited her to teach a one-day seminar on these subjects. In 2004, she was the recipient of the Home Based Business Advocate Award by the Small Business Administration of Los Angeles. No one will be surprised to learn that Liatsos has an impressive list of projects on her ‘To Do’ list, such as creating an E-commerce program on her website for additional business and management products and services, translating the DVD into Spanish, and licensing her business to other entrepreneurs wishing to teach others how to work at home. “How to Start and Operate Your Own Home Based Business” – Online Course, DVD and Business Management Services available through Home Office Management Experts www.thehome-office.com. Email Mavis Manus at [email protected] Makras Real Estate 1193 Church Street, San Francisco, California 94114 (415) 282-8400 Fax (415) 282-8594 Serving San Francisco and the Peninsula since 1976 Residential & Commercial Sales Property Management Elaine Passaris • Nick Kontonis • Victor Makras • Christopher Christoforidis FAMILY OWNED & PROUDLY CARED FOR GOUR AT SINCE ZAG ED M AGAZMET INE RAT 1948 OWNER CHRYS CHRYS WELCOMES YOU TO: “ELLHNIKO PANTAPOLEION” C & K IMPORTING CO. L.A.’s OLDEST & ONLY “ELLHNIKO” GREEK STORE! AND “PAPA CRISTO’S” “AWARD-WINNING” GREEK GRILL RECOGNIZED FOR ITS FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE, DELICIOUS HOMEMADE FOOD WITH “REAL GREEK INGREDIENTS!” FOR DINNER, CATERING OR PARTIES WITH “FOOD LIKE YOUR MOTHER COOKED IT” CALL: (323) 737-2970 2771 W. PICO BLVD. LOS ANGELES, CA 90006 WWW.PAPACRISTOS.COM 15 16 Hellenic Journal September 2009 northwest and pacific notes By Theodora Dracopoulos Argue HELLENIC STUDIES NEWS A pledge by the Drs. Nick and Nancy Vidalakis to fund a Professorship in Hellenic Studies at the University of Washington (UW) was fulfilled this summer. The complete title is The Drs. Nick and Nancy Vidalakis Family Professorship of Culture, Excellence, and Spirituality in Hellenic Studies. SAVE THE DATES On November 1, Seattle’s AHEPA is sponsoring an evening performance of Euripides’ “Trojan Women” given by a troop of women from Greece at UW in Seattle. Also save the late afternoon of November 21 for “A Founders’ Celebration” and mini-auction for the Hellenic Studies Program at UW. See next month’s column for more information on both events. KUALA LAMPUR Datuk (Sir) Nicholas S. Zefferys, President of the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce was appointed to the newly created National Economic Advisory Council (NEAC) by Prime Minister Najib Razak. Nick Zefferys is the only foreigner on the ninemember council established to move the country to a higher economic plateau. He also is second in ranking to the chairman of PEMUDAH, a Special Taskforce to Facilitate Business. He has served three Prime Ministers in helping Malaysia to achieve its national goals. Nick and Marlene Zefferys lived in Seattle for many years prior to moving to Malaysia. people honored this year received an Orthodox prayer book. Some 250 youth have participated as readers. EPISTLE PROGRAM CITED Since 1997 under the leadership of parishioner Arthur Saridakis, teenagers at Seattle’s St. Demetrios Church have taken part each week in the Divine Liturgy as readers of the Epistle in Biblical and Modern Greek and in English.. Teenagers also have participated at Salutations services and read the Epistle in Greek, English, and Arabic at Pascha. Fr. Photios Dumont, Proistamenos of St. Demetrios, extolled the young people for their confidence and enthusiastically commended their instructor for his dedication. Each of the 30 young YOUTH ACTIVITIES Nineteen youth and some parents at Holy Transfiguration Church in Anchorage made a pilgrimage to Kodiak Island and Spruce Island this summer, traveling by the Alaska Ferry System. Activities included a boat trip to Spruce Island to see where St. Herman of Alaska lived and ministered to the natives for many years. The youth additionally were enriched spiritually by activities at St. Innocent Academy and Seattle’s 2009 St. Demetrios Church Epistle Reader Program participants: (Front Row): Sara Fecadu, William Hubbell, Nicholas Pagonis, Stephanie Sampson, Eleftheria Contoravdis, Stavroula Tsantilas, Instructor Arthur Saridakis, Fr. Photios Dumont, Ershad Oweis, Sophia Mallouk, Theodora Teodosiadis, Katherine Vassiliou, John Dumont; (Back Row) Teresa Moroseos, Reader and Altar Boy Coordinator Chris Makris, Athan Dumont, Deacon Spyridon (“Perry”) Angelos, Anna Teodosiadis, Kyriakos Moroseos, Baidar Oweis, Thanasis Teodosiadis, Demetri Dalas. Not Pictured: Stavroula Athans, Eleni Lagos, Vicky Tourikis, Shaden Oweis, Narissa Paskovskis, Samir Karoufeh, Vasilis Dikeakos, Alex Varkalakis. Opa! Demetrios Theodoropoulos, CLTC, LUTCF Registered Representative offering Securities through NYLIFE Securities, LLC • Member FINRA/SIPC a Licensed Insurance Agency To learn more about products & services contact Theodoropoulos Financial & Insurance Services Bay Bridge Office 5980 Horton St., Suite 500, Emeryville, CA 94608 510-205-5433 TF I East Bay Office 6210 Stoneridge Mall Rd., Suite 100, Pleasanton, CA 94588 925-847-4600 office • 925-847-4605 facsimile 510-205-5433 cellular • [email protected] E S TAT E C O N S E R VAT I O N BUSINESS CONTINUITY EXECUTIVE BENEFIT PLANS RETIREMENT PLANNING C H A R I TA B L E G I V I N G California Insurance License #0B95408 Theodoropoulos Financial & Insurance Services is not owned or operated by NYLIFE Securities, LLC or its affliates Member of the newly created National Economic Advisory Council of Malaysia, Datuk Nick Zefferys, previously a longtime resident of Seattle. PHOTO BY PRESTIGE PHOTO St. Herman of Alaska Seminary, both in Kodiak. HAWAII OUTREACH Fr. John Hondros from St. John the Baptist Church in Las Vegas, NV, celebrated the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, July 26, at the Tsanaklidis chapel on Maui for the Orthodox faithful there. The next Saturday Liturgy on Maui will be September 12. Orthodox of ALL jurisdictions – Greek, Antiochian, Serbian, OCA, Bulgarian, etc., – are welcome. Please email [email protected]. org or call 808-521-7220 with names and contact information. ORTHODOX BOY SCOUT ADVENTURE Seattle’s Pan-Orthodox Boy Scout Troop #67 won a place NW PACIFIC NOTES continued on page 17 School Hellenic of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Classes in Modern Greek for children, teens, and adults of all levels of proficiency are being formed at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (986 Chapman Street, San Jose, CA 95126), starting in September 2009 with open enrollment throughout the year. For further information, please contact: [email protected] Tel. 408-243-0507 (School Office) Tel. 408-246-2770 (Church Office) September 2009 Hellenic Journal NW PACIFIC NOTES continued from page 16 in a lottery to go camping at the 137,400 Emanuel square-acre Dimitri Volakis with Philmont Boy one of his Scout Ranch in photographs the northwest at his booth at the corner of Bellevue (WA) New Mexico. Arts Fair. Every summer, 20,000 Boy Scouts from the U.S. and some foreign countries come to that wilderness with its rugged terrain and wild animals. Scouts on the 11-day, 85 mile heavy backpacking trek were Gabe Buzatu, Athan Dumont, Michael Howe, Chris Kouldukis, Robin Pflager, Alex Praggastis, Nick Prekeges, Alex Shipilova, and Matthew Sineev. The adults were all from Assumption Church in Seattle: William Howe, Father Dean Kouldukis, Chris Praggastis, James Prekeges, and Group Leader John Prekeges. On the seventh day of the hike, Fr. Dean Kouldukis celebrated the first Orthodox Divine Liturgy ever at Philmont Ranch on a rock altar on a remote trail. Back in Albuquerque, the group enjoyed an Albuquerque Isotopes baseball game and a visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. 70TH ANNIVERSARY Congratulations to The Church of the Assumption in Seattle on its 70th anniversary. The community came into being on August 15, 1939. The occasion was marked by the annual luncheon sponsored by the Philoptochos for the parish feast day. PACIFIC NORTHWEST TOUR On August 7, 8, 9, and 10, Cappella Romana, the renowned choral group, traveled to and performed for four days straight in the Pacific Northwest from Portland to Seattle to Salt Spring Island, BC, to Vancouver, BC. Once again, Director Alexander Lingas, with his vast knowledge of Byzantine and Orthodox musicology, came up with a fascinating program. Estonian composer Arvo Part has set many Eastern Orthodox hymns to music. Patterned on an Orthodox service of supplication (Paraklesis), Cappella Romana offered a selection of Part’s English and Slavonic works including a Triodion. Following the chorale’s debut at MusicFest Vancouver in 2003, the ensemble returned to the festival this year, with an additional performance on nearby Salt Spring Island. VOLAKIS EXHIBITS Photographer and private art dealer Emanuel Dimitri Volakis exhibited his black and white photographs at the annual summer Bellevue (WA) Arts Fair. His Volakis Gallery in Napa, CA, represents emerging talent and established artists in the fields of photography, painting, sculpture, mixed media, and installation work. His own art has an appreciation of the ancient, often depicting sculptures in Europe that are based on the human form of classical Greece. Samos and Kastoria are his ancestral places. In 1960, his Greek-born mother met his Greek-American father, who was stationed in Paris. They settled in Denver and later moved to the Bay Area. Emanuel was introduced to photography and given his first camera by his father, a military aerial photographer. Email Theodora Argue at [email protected] Real Estate or Construction Problems? LAW OFFICES OF PETER J. ZOURAS Focus on REAL ESTATE and CONSTRUCTION LAW, including Purchase/Sales, Exchanges, Leasing, Property Disputes, Construction Contracts and Disputes, Liens, Defects, Earth Movement, and Water Damage. Representing Buyers/ Sellers, Owners, Contractors and Developers. GENERAL BUSINESS LAW, including Contracts, Purchase/Sales, Business Disputes, and Corporate Formation. Results Oriented • 20+ Years Experience 177 Post Street, San Francisco, CA • 415-974-1800 Fr. Dean Kouldukis of Assumption Church in Seattle celebrating DIvine Liturgy with Seattle’s Orthodox Boy Scout Troop #67 in the rugged Philmont Boy Scout Ranch in New Mexico. IT’S GREEK TO ME I M P O R T S John & Parthena Kanelos 510 531-3997 • Oakland, California Greek Music and Videos Custom Made Bridal Veils, Candles, Favors, Stefana, and Stefanothekes Baptismal Accessories and Clothing including Lambades and Martirica “You know, the Greeks invented real estate!” Serving Los Angeles and Orange County 17 18 Hellenic Journal September 2009 business directory ACCOUNTING GEORGIA PETRAKOS, CPA Daoro Zydel & Holland LLP 135 Main Street, 9th Floor San Francisco, CA 94105 Ph: 415-655-6241 • Email: [email protected] Law-Tax in Greece Consulting, Inc. Katerina Kampitsi The Knight Ridder Building 50 W. San Fernando Street, Suite 900 San Jose, CA 95113 Ph: 408-918-5388 • Fax: 408-998-2102 40 Kalavryton Str. 187 57 Keratsini, Piraeus, Greece Ph: (30) 210 400 7919 Fax: (30) 210 400 7710 [email protected] • [email protected] www.law-tax.gr YIDRGOS TAGARAS, CPA Tax Services, Film, Property Matters, Wills, Start Up Business Bookkeeping, Licence. Legal Advice with Associate Lawyer Yidrgos Tagaras Greek Orthodox Memorial Park Mausoleum or ground burial services provided. Church services available on our grounds. Protected by Endowment Care Trust Funds. The only Greek Orthodox Memorial Park in the United States, offering consecrated burial lots, dedicated to serving the Eastern Orthodox Faith. 1325 Calumet Ave Los Angeles, CA 90026 Ph:(626) 379 6671 • Ph: (30) 694 422 7096 [email protected] ADVERTISING/MARKETING GUMAS ADVERTISING John Gumas 99 Shotwell Street San Francisco, California 94103 Ph: 415-621-7575 • Fax: 415-255-8804 Email: [email protected] www.gumas.com ARCHITECTS CJK DESIGN GROUP Christ J. Kamages, AIA 594 Howard St., Suite 401 San Francisco, CA 94105 Ph: 415-495-7626 • Fax: 415-495-2788 Email: [email protected] www.CJKDesign.com JOHN N SCOURKES ARCHITECT John N. Scourkes, AIA PO Box 52090 Pacific Grove, CA 93950 Ph: 831-757-7803 • Fax: 831-757-1201 Email: [email protected] John thodos/aia architect John Thodos N.E. 7th and Mission Streets P.O. Box 7048 Carmel, CA 93921 Ph: 831-624-0866 • Fax: 831-624-8704 Email: [email protected] www.Thodosaia.com ATTORNEY DIMITRAKOS LAW OFFICES AN INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM “…with dignity and respect for those we love.” Admitted in CA & Greece 111 Deerwood Rd., Ste 385 San Ramon, CA 94583 Specializing in Greek Law (real estate, title searches, inheritance, tax, citizenship etc.), CA Probate & Estate Planning (Wills/ Trusts), E.U. Law & U.S. Immigration and Nationality Law. Ph: 925-552-9610 Offices in CA & Greece Kyriacos Tsircou, Esq. Steve Doukas, Manager Phone: (650) 755-6939 Fax: (650) 755-6109 P.O. Box 333 • 1148 El Camino Real • Colma, CA 94014 Specializing in intellectual property matters, particularly in the area of patent law. TSIRCOU LAW, P.C. 655 N. Central Avenue, 17th Floor Glendale, CA 91203 323-660-9916 Email: [email protected] www.tsircoulaw.com Law & Tax Services (See Accounting) LAW OFFICES OF PETER J. ZOURAS D Peter J. Zouras, Attorney at Law 20+ years experience in Construction & Real Estate Law, and assisting businesses. 177 Post Street, Suite 550 San Francisco, CA 94108 Ph: 415-982-2848 • Fax: 415-677-8529 Email: [email protected] BAPTISMS & WEDDINGS uggan’s Funeral Service The Duggan Welch Family William “Bill” and Steve Welch, the fourth and fifth generation Funeral Directors serving San Francisco and the bay area Greek Community. Our friendly, family oriented staff are here to assist you in your time of need. We are minutes away from The Annunciation Cathedral and offer many Pre Arrangement Plans. 3434 17th Street near Valencia San Francisco, California 94110 Phone: 415-431-4900 • Fax: 415-861-9866 California Funeral Establish License FD44 California Funeral Directors Licenses FDR 394-FDR 395 Eleni’s Favors & Gifts Eleni’s Favors & Gifts Specializing in Weddings & Christenings Eleni Taptelis 116 El Camino Real San Carlos, CA 94070 Ph: 650-631-8900 • Fax: 650-631-8910 Email: [email protected] www.elenisfavors.com GREEK IMPORTS Elias Tsiknis 6524 Mission Street Daly City, CA 94014 Ph: 650-994-3322 • Fax: 650-994-3323 E-mail: [email protected] www.greekimportsinc.com IT’S GREEK TO ME Wedding, Baptism, Music & Video John and Parthena Kanelos 4061 Barner Avenue Oakland, CA 94602 Ph: 510-531-3997 • Fax: 510-531-6980 BOOKS & GIFTS THE LIFE-GIVING SPRING BOOKSTORE Anastasia Kalivas 800 N. Glendale Ave. Glendale, CA 91206 Ph: 818-551-0544 • Fax: 818-551-9297 Email: [email protected] www.lifegivingspring.com mercial Construction Bill Baladakis Ballas 1575 Francisco Blvd East San Rafael, CA. 94901-5503 S.F. / North Bay: 415-460-1575 South Bay: 650-299-9400 www.plathco.com GREEK STORES/MARKETS & DELI’S C&K IMPORTING Chrys Chrys 2771 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, California 90006 Ph: 323-737-2970 • Fax: 323-737-3571 Email: [email protected] www.papacristo.com GREEK IMPORTS Elias Tsiknis 6524 Mission Street Daly City, CA 94014 Ph: 650-994-3322 • Fax: 650-994-3323 E-mail: [email protected] www.greekimportsinc.com GREEKSHOPS.COM VRIONIS & SON Greece...delivered to your door with just a click 2665 30th Street, Suite 103 Santa Monica, California 90405 Ph: 310-581-5059 • Fax: 310-581-4290 Email: [email protected] www.greekshops.com Design & MULTIMEDIA Savas Deligiorgis 2365 Mission Street San Franciso, California 94110 Ph: 415-282-2237 • Fax: 415-282-4250 Email: [email protected] COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE, MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT Gary M. Vrionis 4115 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Ste 250 Danville, California 94506 Ph: 925-736-9300 Fax: 925-736-9316 HELLENIC AMERICAN IMPORTS ARTWORX GREEK WINES ENTERTAINMENT Outstanding Greek Wine Selection Dan Marshall 2526 A Santa Clara Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 Ph: 510-769-9463 • Fax: 510-769-9443 Email: [email protected] www.duvinfinewines.com Providing integrated Graphic Design, Multimedia, Web and Printing Services to Greek Communities for almost a decade. Nektarios Tradas Owner, Art Director Ph: 858-292-6070 www.getartworx.com Vital Sounds (DJAlex) du vin fine wines GREEK IMPORTS Alexander Mallas Post Office Box 444 Belmont, CA 94002-0444 Ph: 650-591-1010 • Fax: 650-345-4742 Email: [email protected] www.vitalsounds.net Elias Tsiknis 6524 Mission Street Daly City, California 94014 Ph: 650-994-3322 • Fax: 650-994-3323 Email: [email protected] www.greekimportsinc.com Greek/World Music for Festivals, Weddings, Baptisms, Private Parties, Special Events Christos Sarantakis 707-939-9063 • www.medsoul.com Email: [email protected] Savas Deligiorgis 2365 Mission Street San Francisco, California 94110 Ph: 415-282-2237 • Fax: 415-282-4250 Email: [email protected] COAST FUNDING GROUP, INC. Nick P. Diafos, Licensed Agent ** Specializing in the Self-Employed Health • Life • Disability Seattle, Washington Ph: 425-749-0238 • Fax: 425-223-5090 [email protected] MEDITERRANEAN SOUL FINANCING “Financing Homes to Hamburgerstands” Since 1984 John Hatzidakis Ted Learakos Kostas Hatzidakis 1401 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 155 Santa Ana, California 92705 Ph: 714-547-3444 Email: [email protected] General Contracting Plath & Company, Inc. Custom Home Building, Renovation & Remodeling, Historic Restoration and Com- INSURANCE HEALTH INSURANCE SPECIALIST NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE Demetrios Theodoropoulos, Agent Bay Bridge Office 5890 Horton St., Suite 500 Emeryville, California 94608 Ph: 925-847-4600 • Fax: 925-847-4605 Cell: 510-205-5433 Email: [email protected] VERREOS INSURANCE AGENCY Tony Verreos Value Star Gold Certified 200 Valley Drive Suite 20 Brisbane, California 94005 Ph: 800-464-1397 • Fax: 415-467-9605 Email: [email protected] GREER FAMILY MORTUARY JEWELERS Serving the Greek Orthodox Community Your trusted source for providing Meaningful Ceremonies and outstanding service through our dedicated staff HELLENIC AMERICAN IMPORTS JEWELRY PLUS FD1408 Please visit our web site at www.greerfuneralhome.com 2694 Blanding Avenue Alameda Ph: 510-865-3755 Fax: 510-865-1327 Email: [email protected] Steve Padis Email: [email protected] Web: www.padisgems.com San Francisco Jewelry Center 101 Utah Street Suite 201 San Francisco, California 94103 Ph: 415-626-8288 • Fax: 415-431-4896 JEWELRY PLUS Steve Padis San Francisco Gift Center 888 Brannan Street Suite 165 San Francisco, California 94103 September 2009 Hellenic Journal Ph: 415-861-2325 • Fax: 415-861-2376 Steve’s Special Selection San Francisco Gift Center 888 Brannan Street Suite 126 San Francisco, California 94103 Ph: 415-861-5388 • Fax: 415-861-1459 Jewelry Gallery Byzantium Exquisitely handcrafted heirloom quality crosses and jewelry designed in the Early Christian, Byzantine and Slavic aesthetic tradition. • Ph: 800-798-6173 www.gallerybyzantium.com MEMORIAL PARK GREEK ORTHODOX MEMORIAL PARK Steve Doukas 1148 El Camino Real Colma, CA 94014 Ph: 650-755-6939 • Fax: 650-755-6109 MORTUARY Chapel of the Highlands Personalized care for over 50 years Paul Larson & Jim Pappas El Camino Real at Millwood Drive Millbrae, California Ph: 650-588-5116 www.chapelofthehighlands.com Duggan’s Funeral Service Your Host: Savas Deligiorgis 2365 Mission Street, San Franciso, CA 94110 Ph: 415-282-2237 Email: [email protected] REAL ESTATE MAKRAS REAL ESTATE Victor G. Makras 1193 Church Street San Francisco, California 94114 Ph: 415-282-8400 • Fax: 415-282-8594 Eva Sogotis Realtor Servicing your Real Estate needs in San Francisco and the Peninsula Alain Pinel Realtors 1440 Chapin Avenue, Suite 200 Burlingame, CA 94010 Ph: 650.931.2953 • Fax: 650.931.2099 Cell: 650.302.8291 Email: [email protected] www.evasogotis.com Jimmy Spathos Realtor / Notary Commercial and Residential Real Estate in Los Angeles and Orange Counties 8635 Florence Avenue Suite 101 Downey, CA 90240 Ph: 562-861-7257 • Fax: 562-861-0285 Cell: 562-400-2148 www.jimmyspathos.com The Duggan Welch Family Our friendly, family-oriented staff are here to assist you in your time of need. We are minutes away from the Annunciation Cathedral, 245 Valencia St. S.F. 3434 17th Street near Valencia San Francisco, CA 94110 Ph. 415-431-4900 • Fax: 415-861-9866 A Real Estate Lending Company For All Your Real Estate Needs Taso Manitsas, Owner/Broker 4340 Redwood Hwy, Suite A33 San Rafael, CA. 94903 Ph: 415-472-4572 • Fax: 415-472-4575 Email: [email protected] Duggan's Serra Mortuary RESTAURANTS Free Funeral Preplanning Appointments in one of our three locations or your home. 500 Westlake Avenue Daly City, CA 94014 Ph: 650-756-4500 • 415-587-4500 Fax: 650-755-4834 www.duggansserra.com Greer Family Mortuary Serving the Greek Orthodox Community 2694 Blanding Avenue Alameda, CA 94501 Ph: 510-865-3755 Fax: 510-865-1327 [email protected] PHOTOGRAPHY/ VIDEOGRAPHY PETRAKOS FILMS Kostas Petrakos San Carlos, California Ph: 650-585-1015 Email: [email protected] www.petrakosfilms.com printing & Publishing ARTWORX Providing integrated Graphic Design, Multimedia, Web and Printing Services to Greek Communities for almost a decade. Nektarios Tradas Owner, Art Director Ph: 858-292-6070 • www.getartworx.com RADIO HELLENIC AMERICAN BROADCAST PRIMARY MORTGAGE epsilon Fine Greek Restaurant Petros Mungridis 422 Tyler Street, Monterey, CA 93940 Ph: 831-655-8108 www.epsilonrestaruant.com Papa Cristo’s Authentic Greek Taverna Since 1948 Chrys Chrys 2771 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006 Ph: 323-737-2970 SHIPPING/APPLIANCES ARIS EXPORT CO., INC. Isaac Kotev 1453 Doolittle Drive San Leandro, CA 94577 Ph: 510-636-4646 • Fax: 510-636-4640 Email: [email protected] www.aris220v.com TELEVISION GREEK TV Your Host: Dimitri Carapanos 3653 Walnut Street Lafayette, California 94549 Ph: 925-858-3334 www.greektv.com TRAVEL Aster Travel Agency The Greek Travel Agency Discount air, cruises & tours Tim Zaracotas 1961 Ocean Avenue "Our Family Serving Yours" Madeline, Bill, Maureen & Dan, The Bud Duggan Family and the Staff of Duggan’s Serra Mortuary, Daly City 500 Westlake Avenue, Daly City 650.756.4500 415.587.4500 The Duggan Family Proudly Serving the Greek Community Since 1903 Less than 5 minutes from the Greek Orthodox Cemetery (Not affiliated with Duggan’s Welch, 17th Street, SF) FREE BROCHURE Preplanning, Traditional Services Please visit our website at: www.duggansserra.com NHS continued from page 9 including domestic and foreign affairs. Basile, the comedian, brought down the house in the opening reception, and despite the pounding rain and thunder a large contingent of golfers made it through 18 holes of the award-winning Trump International Golf Course. Renaissance Weekend attendees included, actor John Aniston, George Behrakis of Gainesborough Investments and publisher of The Hellenic Voice, John Calamos of Calamos Investments, Charles Cotros, former Sysco Foods executive, Evangeline Gouletas, Skyline Properties, the Very Rev. Alex Karloutsos of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, C. Dean Metropoulos, former Pinnacle Foods executive, George Marcus of Marcus & Millichap/Essex Properties, Peter J. Pappas of PJ Mechanical, George Stamas of Kirkland & Ellis, Tony Thomopoulos, former ABC Network and United Artists Studio executive, Angelo Tsakopoulos of AKT Development, Kyriakos Tsakopoulos of KT Communities, John Vlahakis of Earth Friendly Products, Stephanie Vlahakis, executive director of the National Hellenic Museum, and many other luminaries and their families. The NHS’ mission is to preserve Greek heritage in the United States. NHS will undertake several projects helping to preserve heritage – the Virtual Village Club Project will facilitate online social, business and professional networking for young Greek American professionals and will serve as a valuable resource for accessing business, professional, cultural and academic information. NHS is also sponsoring scholarships for first-time young visitors to Greece (NHS Birthright Greece) in hopes of instilling a sense of identity through exceptional educational and cultural programs (see page 10). For additional information about the National Hellenic Society, contact Executive Director Timothy Maniatis at 301-941-1961 or [email protected] or visit nationalhellenicsociety.org. San Francisco, California 94127 Ph: 415-334-5957 Fax: 415-334-3552 VENTURE CAPITAL Prima capital group, inc. Do you have a bright idea that can become a real business? Or are you a Greek Angel who is willing to venture in bright ideas? Can we talk? Elias D. Argyropoulos–President/CEO Nick Gorenc–Financial Consultant 1230 Coast Village Circle, Ste. EMontecito, California 93108 Ph: 805-969-1370 or 800-600-8599 Fax: 805-565-0557 Email: [email protected] $300,000 to $10,000,000 wINERIES Lolonis Winery Greek Heritage Vineyards going on their 90th year Certified Organically Grown and Unfiltered Join Our Wine Club and Receive 25% off Retail www.Lolonis.com Advertise in the HJ Business Directory for $30 per issue. Call the Hellenic Journal 831899-3699 or info@hellenicjournal. org. Deadline is the first of the previous month, i.e. August 1st for September. Hellenic Connection Hellenic Events, Restaurants, Businesses & Organizations. For a comprehensive list of what’s happening on the Greek scene in your town and around the globe, visit Hellenikozmo.com and tonypresents.com. Fanari Academy of Greek Education, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit Greek language program, is accepting applications for teaching positions for 2009-2010. Also needed is a Computer & Greek language instructor: Applicants must hold a degree in computer science or related field and speak Greek fluently. This position is designed to enhance teaching Greek with the integration of computers. The school is located at the campus of Rainbow Montessori in Sunnyvale. Qualified candidates should be fluent in Greek and have a university degree. Please register online www.fanariacademy.org or contact us by e-mail at [email protected]. 19 HARRY W. GREER, RALPH H. GREER, FREDA GREER & VALERIE C. GREER ARE NOT ASSOCIATED WITH OR AFFILIATED WITH: GREER Family Mortuary in Alameda, CA Grant Miller John Cox Mortuary in Oakland, CA. Both mortuaries are OWNED by Funeral Service Consolidator CARRIAGE SERVICES, a Houston, Texas Based Corporation Any Questions May Be Directed to Harry W. Greer Home: (510) 522-5188 • Cell: (510)368-3892 Email: [email protected] Member Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Ascension in Oakland We are proud to feature the following designers: Tacori, Scott Kay, Scott Kay Sterling, Michele Watches, Verragio, Simon G., A. Jaffe, Ritani, Precision Set, Christopher Designs, Jeff Cooper, Memoire, Christian Bauer, ArtCarved Goldman, Spark, Natalie K., Diana, Benchmark, Calla Collection, Michael Bondanza, Tycoon, Visit Our Showrooms Jean-Francois Albert, Charles Garnier, Michael B., Furrer Jacot & Fendi Watches SAN FRANCISCO JEWELRY CENTER SAN FRANCISCO GIFT CENTER STEVE’S SPECIAL SELECTION 101 Utah Street 888 Brannan Street San Francisco Gift Center Suite 201 Suite 165 Suite 126 San Francisco, CA San Francisco, CA San Francisco, CA 415-626-8288 415-861-2325 415-861-5388 San Francisco Bay Area 1-888-500-GEMS www.padisgems.com