Detroit Organizations Raise Funds to Reforest Greece

Hundreds of Trees Donated To Reforest Greece
by Contributing Writer Elena Kerasiotis

So many of us take what we have for granted, family, friends, home and country, but when these precious possessions are placed in peril, the best in all of us emerges. Realizing that the things we cherish most must be protected, hundreds of local area Greek-Americans and friends, joined together at the International Banquet and Conference Center (IBCC) on Friday, November 2, 2007, to share in an evening of entertainment and generosity to benefit the Greek Wild Fires Relief Fund, "Plant Your Roots in Greece."

A sprig of pine, placed on each table, was a simple but powerful reminder to those gathered of the loss Greece has suffered due to devastating wild fires this summer. Inhaling the gentle pine fragrance, while watching a moving presentation designed by Mario Mihas, touched the hearts of those who so willingly had given to the event. The evening's organizers and underwriters, the American Hellenic Congress (AHC), Detroit PBS, UBS/ Mr. & Mrs. William Vlahoulis, the IBCC, Mr. & Mrs. Ted Gatsaros, Veras Communications, Pavlo, his band, the Apollos, the Levendes, World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) the Pan-Macedonian Association, Pan-Ikarian Association, Pancretan "Pseloretes," Aracadian Brotherhood, Epirotic Society, Greek-Caucas of Michigan, Chios Society of Detroit, AHEPA and the Daughters of Penelope, Association of Steroladites, Pan-Thisvian Society of Michigan, Pan-Laconians, the Hellenic Student Association, the National League of Cypriots, and the Messinian Association, certainly got this one right. A display, lovingly prepared and designed by the Hellenic Student Association and the Vasilis Vouharas Family, effectively retold the story in photographic and artistic images. Guests traveled from as far as North Carolina, Ann Arbor, Windsor and Toronto to be a part of this momentous event.

Emcee, William Vlahoulis, opened the program and along with Athanasios Vrettas, introduced the audience, to the mission of the AHC, which is a collaboration of all area Greek American Organizations. Dr. Dimitrios Pallas, President of the organization, recapped the group's revitalized mission to provide quality performances, lecturers, movies and non-partisan support of all Hellenic and phil-hellenic political candidates. He emphasized the importance of providing relevant information vital to retaining our Hellenic heritage both in America and abroad. The Hellenes of the diaspora, when united, can make a powerful statement.

Excitement filled the room as guests awaited the premier appearance of internationally acclaimed guitarist, Pavlo, and they were not disappointed. He lifted the group to their feet. A fabulous, guitar and bouzouki solo showcased the depth of talent being offered to reforest the mountains and homeland of Greece. With melodic vocals and harmonies, Pavlo mesmerized the audience with his soulful repertoire. Special thanks to the entire group, Veras Communications, and PBS Detroit, for working so hard to bring this dynamic young artist to the Detroit area.

Yes, hundreds of trees were purchased, and in return a symbolic "little-tree" was given to acknowledge the contribution made by each and every guest at the event. The Greeks seem to always have a phrase that can summarize the power that unity can bring, "Tree by tree, bean by bean, the bag is filled." And for those who attended this stellar event the bag overflowed. More importantly though, it's not always about the amount in the tray, but what the effort represents. For you see, it is our responsibility to do our share, the size of the donation is not what it is all about, it is truly about standing up for what you believe. As the progeny of Greece, a gift was bestowed on all of us; the gift of homeland, the gift of identity, the gift of a legacy rich with history, the gift of knowing that every Greek has been blessed with "philotimo." To all of those who dug deep into their hearts and pockets to make this event a success, we commend you and thank you, your statement was heard loud and clear. Zhto Ellas!

Malista!