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 |   2006 Greek Independence Parade
April 2, 2006 - Greektown, MI OPA! Yia sas! Congratulations to the thousands of supporters that joined in on the Greek Independence Day Festivities. The Hellenes of Detroit really made an impression on their city and state. Both of Michigan's US Senators, Carl Levin, and Debbie Stabenow were in attendance. Also among the dignitaries were Grand Marshall, Chris Tomaras, Chicago, Illinois, Vice President of SAE, Hellenes Abroad, and Circuit Court Judges, Gregory Bill and Vonda Evans. Representing the City of Detroit was Councilpersons, Martha Reeves and Monica Conyers. Robert Constan, City Councilman, represented Dearborn Heights and Sherry Stefanes, was there as Trustee of Bloomfield Township. The Honorable James Kandrevas, 29th District Court Judge (Southgate) and son Andrew Kandrevas, who is running for Third Circuit Court Judge, were also among the visiting dignitaries. Senator Stabenow expressed, "How glad I am to be back, and be a part of this wonderful celebration. My husband, Tom Athens, is of Greek descent so it means even more to me." Chris Tomaras stated that the event was a must for him and that he was honored to serve as this year's Grand Marshall. "SAE is for all of the Greeks of the Diaspora and I am so glad to have been invited to share in this exciting event." His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas greeted each marcher at the head of the parade, granting his special blessing on their organizations and churches. This was Detroit's Greek American Community's opportunity to make a statement. "The TV coverage announcing the event was truly gratifying," said, Joanne DeRonne, publicity coordinator, who was aglow with the excellent coverage. Richard Mayk was the Master of Ceremonies and he graciously managed the speakers and announcements. Parade organizers, George Reganis and Tom Christy welcomed the crowd and were greeted with a round of applause from the gathered throng. Obviously, one of the largest attendances in many years, they thanked the entire committee for their hours of planning and commitment to the success of the event. The planning for next year's event begins next week and the group meets monthly in order to prepare for the one-day event. The glow of solidarity and pride were viewed on the faces of all in attendance. From the smallest child to the oldest visitor, the pride of their Hellenic heritage could be seen and felt. It is not often that so many of us join together to share in our common ancestry, but for one day a year, we all remember that we are Greek-Americans and proud of it. If only the feeling could last past just one day. The Greek American Community must unite. It is just not about a parade. It is about electing Greek American Politicians and Judges to represent us. It is about attending events, that let the community know that as Greek-Americans we are not only proud of our heritage, but we are also willing to protect and perpetuate it. We are excited and willing to spend our time and invest our hard earned dollars to assure that our culture and contribution are not overlooked. When so many are eager to vie for our time and talents, we must remain focused. We must be at the concerts, we must be at the lectures, and we must contribute to our churches, our Greek Schools, our Metropolis. If we do not participate, if we do not commit, we will lose the one thing that we value most, our Hellenic Heritage. The next generation is dependant on us. Gone are Yiayia and Papou, we are all they have left to defend the legacy our forefathers so cherished. Our events page lists so many activities, so many opportunities to participate. Come join us. Keep the spirit of this day alive, nurture this gift and the reward will be 10,000 fold. Malista! |  |
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