Malista Articles

Hellenic Bar Association of Detroit

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:25:00 +0000

The Hellenic Bar Associaition held its first meeting of the year at the newly acquired Hellenic Museum in Detroit on Thursday, January 23, 2010. Attendance and enthusiasm for the project are in high gear. The group can't wait to get started. The museum is going to be fantastic. See photos at http://www.malista.com in the photo gallery. The mansion has wonderful potential and is just waiting for the Greek Community to step up and embrace her. Looking forward to working together to make this a reality.

First Annual Gabby Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:32:00 +0000

Historic Gathering of Greek Americans in Chicago for First Gabby AwardsShining Night that Honored "Greek America's Best and Brightest" at a Hollywood-style Awards Show and After Party

(June 19, 2009 - Chicago, IL) In an evening that will go down in history as the single largest gathering of talented and successful Greek Americans ever assembled in the same room together, over 1200 people descended upon the Windy City from all corners of the country and world for the first Gabby Awards--together to celebrate "Greek America's Best and Brightest Stars.

"The event, which attracted people from 28 states and three foreign countries was sold out with a wait list exceeding 600 people hoping to get in to the "event of our generation," as several participants called it.

The nomination process 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.

Eight awards were handed out, along with one Lifetime Achievement award at an event that opened with an emotionally charged awards show at a historic Chicago Theater and closed with an explosive after party that included song and dance well into the early hours of the following morning. The event opened with Glykeria, one of Greece's biggest-selling female vocalists, singing an emotional song called that told of the trials and tribulations of immigrants leaving the mother country for new lands. In the background, a specially-produced video rolled on a giant screen that showed rare archival footage and images relevant to the song, including a stunning 4-second clip of Greek immigrants crossing themselves and kissing the ground with the Statue of Liberty in the background.

"There wasn't a dry eye in the theater," noted Melina Kanakaredes, who served the event as the Honorary Co-Chair, along with internationally acclaimed fashion designer John Varvatos, both of whom addressed the crowd and spoke of their dedication to the Greek America Foundation, the charity hosting the event.

What followed was a well-orchestrated show, complete with laughing and crying, exciting graphic elements and various multi-media on screen that made one feel that they were at a Hollywood awards show, led by Chicago's own Emmy Award winning television newscaster Anna Davlantes from NBC5.

Selected to present the awards were individuals with a relevance to the category that they were presenting. These people--who traveled from throughout the United States and the world to participate, added their own personal stories to their opening remarks that further enhanced the event. The winners received a precious statuette, designed and made by hand by Greek jewelry designer Konstantino, made of gold, silver and precious stones with rich symbolism of ancient, Byzantine and modern Greek elements.

The Business & Entrepreneurism Award was won by Boston-based businessman George Sakellaris, known as the leader of the "Green revolution" in this country. His company, Ameresco, is the largest independent provider of renewable energy solutions in the country. This award was presented by Dennis Malamatinas, Chief Executive Officer of Marfin Investment Group of Greece, who recalled his days as a student at the University of Chicago many years earlier.

The Arts & Culture Award was won by Harry Mark Petrakis, the Indiana-based author of dozens of books, including "Shepherd of the Shadows," the recent sequel to a popular 1970s book about the Greek Revolution of 1821. This award was presented by New York native Kalomira Sarantis, winner of Greece's "Fame Story" reality talent show and finalist in the 2008 Eurovision Song Competition. In his acceptance remarks, the octogenarian made the audience laugh, reminding them that "too much praise during one's life leaves little for one's eulogy.

"Jim Gianopulos--Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fox Films presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to Oscar winning actress Olympia Dukakis. In an emotional speech, which recalled the struggles of her parents to raise her in a working class, Greek neighborhood of Lowell, Massachusetts, the actress cried openly while she thanked her parents for their sacrifices.

The Athletics Award was won by ultramarathon man endurance runner and best-selling author Dean Karnazes who bolted to the stage in his tuxedo and running shoes to share his inspirational story about how he became an ultramarathon man and one of Time Magazine's Top 100 most important people in the world. This award was presented by U.S. Olympian and national champion diver Christina Loukas.

The Education and Academia Award was given posthumously to the late Dr. Constantine Papadakis, who transformed Drexel University in Philadelphia into a global leader in research and education. That award was presented by Dr. David Horner, President of the American College of Greece and was accepted by Maria Papadakis on behalf of her late father.

On hand to accept the award for the Promotion of Hellenism was Carlos Picon, Curator in Charge at the famed Greek Galleries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, which showcase one of the world's most important collections of Greek antiquities and welcome millions of people annually. This award was presented by Oscar winning filmmaker and HBO President Kary Antholis.

Replicating a moment from their recent film "My Life in Ruins" Nia Vardalos joined Greek actor Alexis Georgoulis on stage with a flower in hand, to present the Performing Arts Award to television actress Melina Kanakaredes, who was overcome with emotion when speaking about the importance of receiving an award that was bestowed upon her by her own people.

Brothers Mike and Tom from the politically connected Manatos family of Washington DC presented the Politics Award to hometown favorite Alexi Giannoulias. The Illinois State Treasurer and the rising star of U.S. politics received a rousing round of applause as he was introduced as a potential candidate for the United States Senate.

Gregory Pappas, Gabby Awards founder and publisher of Greek America Magazine, the host of the event, presented the Philanthropy Award, the final award of the evening, to Pittsburgh billionaire businessman John Rangos, whose philanthropic outreach approaches $100 million to dozens of universities, institutions, hospitals and research centers throughout the nation. On hand to accept the award on his behalf were his grandchildren Nicholas and Virginia Rangos. It was a symbolic moment of the passing of the torch from one generation to the next.The awards show included interesting sponsor messages and vivid images throughout the evening on a giant screen that served as the show's backdrop. Video spots included messages from Chicago 2016, the organization hoping to win the 2016 Summer Games and the American College of Greece. The Costa Navarino resort, which offered all Gabby Awards guests a certificate worth one free room night, also gave attendees a glimpse into the new resort in southwestern Greece that they are opening next year. See photos from the Awards.

The awards show closed with a montage of Hollywood films that featured Greek song and dance including Never on a Sunday and Zorba the Greek on the giant screen, followed by a ten-minute sing-along with Glykeria and Kostas Karafotis, with a video montage in the background produced by the Greek National Tourist Organization and the Greek Ministry of Tourism, which featured stunning imagery of Greece while the two singers and the crowd of 1200 people sang traditional songs in anticipation of the After Party that would follow next door in the Hilton Hotel Grand Ballroom. Immediately after the awards show, there was a Hollywood style Red Carpet walk, where all of the evening's winners and celebrities were interviewed by local, national and international media, while hundreds of on-lookers flashed camera phones and screamed for their favorite celebrities. All of Chicago's local news networks, as well as national outlets from New York and Los Angeles, and several channels from Greece covered the event. See photos from the Red Carpet here.

Cocktails and appetizers followed in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton, which included a station featuring Bon Appétit Magazine chef of the year Michael Psilakis from New York City, who dished out some unique appetizers, while onlookers and fans snapped photos of him. A silent auction kept people busy, bidding on items like Hollywood set visits with Melina Kanakaredes, jewelry by Konstantino and luxurious hotel packages that were donated by Starwood Hotels in Greece.Dinner was served in the lavishly decorated International Ballroom and was followed by an explosive performance by Glykeria and Kostas Karafotis, who kept the crowd on their feet all night long.

See photos from the After Party here.Dozens of celebrities and VIPs who attended the event mingled with the crowd and snapped photos with fans in one of the most celebratory and festive environments ever experienced by people, including a moment that captured everyone's attention when Fox Films CEO Jim Gianopulos jumped on stage to share a zeibekiko dance with actress Melina Kanakaredes, while Glykeria serenaded them with her soulful voice.Proceeds from the Gabby Awards will benefit the Greek America Foundation's newly established Hellenic Legacy Fund, an endowment fund that will sponsor scholarships for students to study abroad in Greece. For more information about our charity or to donate via our secure donation site, click here.See our updated webpage with photos and highlights from the "event of our lifetime". Also, visit our Shutterfly webpage to see hundreds more photos from the Awards Show, the Red Carpet and the After Party.

HELLENIC HERITAGE AWARDS

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:18:00 +0000

The Hellenic Heritage Awards was hosted for the second year by the Greek Independence Day Parade Committee. His Eminence Archbishop Dimitrios, Grand Marshall for this year's event, commended the awardees for their contribution to their community. Recipients included: Alex Alexopoulos, Kay Resh, Nicholas T. George, Dr. Eleftherios Botsaris, and Dr. Denny Stavros. The photo attached includes last years recipients Penny Voudoukis, Lou Vlahantones, Dr. Theodore Pantos and Spiro Theros.

The Awards recognize those individuals who are senior members of the community and have achieved exemplary distinction in laying the foundation of their faith and culture as they immigrated and assimilated into our society. The honorees will join Archbishop Demetrios and Metropolitan Nicholas at Sunday’s Parade. They will be joined by dignitaries, including representatives of Federal, State and Local Government, and the Consulate of Greece in Chicago.

A highlight of the evening was the performance of the unit of “Evzones” and “Amalies” from the region of Eprios and the city of Arta. Under the direction of Kostandinos Demitriou, the group added much to the event. Also performing from the Detroit area were the Kyklos Society for the Performing Arts, and the Omega Dancers from St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Troy, MI. Music was provided by the Levendes and Oneiro.

Pictures are available in our photo gallary.

Malista!

GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY AT THE WHITEHOUSE

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 10:52:00 +0000

Basil Simon, President of the Democratic Party of Michigan's Hellenic Caucus, shared his photos with malista.com when he participated with Greek American dignitaries from all over America who were invited to participate with President Obama and Vice President, Joe Biden at a White House reception in Washington on March 25, 2009. View his photos in our gallery.

Photo gallery also includes photos from Daughters of Penelope Grand President Barbara Stavis Wolf who also attended the event.

Malista!

Michael Psilakis Cooks at the White House Today

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 23:45:00 +0000

Check this out. Greek Chef, Michael Psilakis, from Anthos Restaurant in New York, visits the Whitehouse in honor of Greek Independence Day! Thanks to Katina Petrou of Ann Arbor, MI for sharing this article from the New York Times with malista.com readers.

Sounds like an outstanding menu...

"Among the dishes he’ll be serving are raw mezze of tuna with feta dust and pickled raw and dehydrated watermelon; open goat mossaka; braised snails with rabbit confit; trahana (pebble size pasta) in a rabbit jus with dehydrated halloumi cheese; roast octopus with pickled morel mushrooms, baby fennel and leeks." more...

Opa!

GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY: A NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION OF GREEK AND AMERICAN

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 23:38:00 +0000

For Immediate Release

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

The American people join Hellenes today in commemorating the 188th anniversary of Greece's independence. As we celebrate the establishment of the Hellenic Republic, we honor the historic contributions of Greeks and Greek-Americans.

Americans celebrated the cause of Greek independence during the new nation's earliest years. In 1824, summarizing support for the Greek struggle among the American people, then-Representative Henry Clay declared, "That it is felt with the deepest intensity, expressed in almost every possible form, and that it increases with every new day and passing hour." His words are echoed today as Americans celebrate the anniversary of this struggle for independence.

The relationship between Greece and the United States owes much to the vision of democracy and liberty forged in Greece. In constructing a modern democratic framework, our Nation's founders drew upon the immutable principles of the ancient Greeks. All who cherish the ideal of democratic governance are beneficiaries of the Greek legacy.

From the literary classics taught in our children's classrooms to the gleaming monuments of our Nation's capital, Greek cultural traditions have also found a home in the United States. In classrooms across the country, many of our students still immerse themselves in the epics of Homer, the dramas of Sophocles, and the philosophical innovations of Plato and Aristotle. Among the Greek-influenced structures in Washington, D.C., our Nation's Capitol Building draws upon the architectural legacy of the ancient Greeks.

In recent history, Greece and the United States have stood together to meet the challenges of our times. Greeks and Americans fought for common causes over the course of the 20th century and continue to collaborate in this century, including through membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

The strength of the bond between Greece and the United States is exemplified by the Greek-American community, which enriches our Nation with its cultural heritage and helps maintain the living relationship between our countries.

On the anniversary of Greece's independence, we celebrate this friendship and look forward to realizing our common goals and aspirations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 25, 2009, as "Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy." I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

BARACK OBAMA

Malista!

Oklahoma Musical -Walled Lake Northern-Constantine Novotny

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:18:00 +0000

I had the opportunity to watch Contstantine perform as Curly in Walled Lake High School's Oklahoma and his voice was phenomenal! Congratulations to the Novotny Family. Everyone enjoy...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7ACb78hEgg

Malista!

WSU GREEK AMERICAN ALUMNI REUNION

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 16:36:00 +0000

W.S.U. Greek-American graduates, we are planning a reunion Memorial day weekend of 2009. Please contact any known graduates to communicate this information, and e-mail us your e-mail address and telephone number and how many persons plan to attend and any suggestions or recommendations you may have since we are still at the planning stages. As soon as we receive more specific information from the International Banquet Center in Detroit, we will communicate it to you.

Contact: Dimitri Pallas M.D. 248-596-9668

CHAMBER MUSIC RECITAL - FEATURING KYPROS MARKOU AND ROBERT CONWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:54:00 +0000

Kypros Markou, Violin and Robert Conway, Piano, will present a chamber Music Recital on Sunday March 8 at 3:00 p.m.

The Recital will take place in the Schaver Music Recital Hall at 480 W. Hancock, Old Main Building, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI

The program will feature Dvorak’s delightful Sonatina in G, filled with Bohemian rhythms and melodies, and Beethoven’s well known “spring” Sonata, also a very melodic work.

The recital is free and open to the public.

Kypros Markou is Professor and Director of Orchestra at Wayne State University. He is also the Music Director of the Dearborn Symphony Orchestra. Robert Conway is Professor of Piano at Wayne State University; he is also the pianist for the Detroit Symphony.

Malista!

MICHAEL DAFINGAS - MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 20:45:00 +0000

Michael Dafingas fell asleep in the Lord on February 24, 2009 while in the loving arms of his family. His heart failed and he left very peacefully.

Mr. Dafingas was born in the village of Melisotopos in Northern Greece and lived in Thessaloniki. He traveled, lived and worked in Australia and Canada. Mr. Dafingas visited the Detroit area and ultimately settled here when he met his wife, Chrisoula. He worked for Chrysler Corporation.

Known for his witty sense of humor and fun personality, Mr. Dafingas entertained countless Metropolitan Detroit Greeks with his jokes and stories while on trips or at dinners, dances or festivals. For several years he served as president of the Pan Macedonian Association Aristotelis Chapter and chaired countless dinner dances and fundraisers. His pride for his homeland, Thessaloniki in particular, was immeasurable.

The church and his family, however, were the cornerstone and foundation of his life. Visiting the Holy Land with Father Kavadas and meeting His Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew was “a dream come true” for Mr. Dafingas. Until mobility issues in recent years limited his ability to attend church, Mr. Dafingas was there every Sunday with his family. His faith played a major role in his life. His daily prayer and veneration of the icons in the iconostasis at their home left a lasting impression on his two daughters. As a result, both families are now living the same way as Mr. Dafingas did---with Christ at the center of their lives.

Mr. Dafingas is survived by his wife of 48 years, Chrisoula; daughters Anastasia (Christ) Pitses and Roula (Tony) Lipinski; grandchildren Eleni, Chrisoula, Michael and Nicholas; sister Evdokia (John) Andony of Australia; brother-in-law Costas Renieris; and many nieces and nephews in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Greece.

The family kindly requests that memorial contributions go directly to the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church for the Fire Restoration Fund. Mr. Dafingas will be missed. May his memory be eternal.

MAIDS OF ATHENA DATE AUCTION A SUCCESS!

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 03:21:00 +0000

On February 13, all of the Maids of Athena Chapters in District 10 came together to host their 4th annual Date Auction. The event, which has earned the District national recognition, has raised money for various charities over the past four years. This year, their efforts benefited the fight against breast cancer through the Karmanos Cancer Center.

Overall, the evening was extremely successful. The event was well attended by youth from the both the local area and around the country. Even the Grand Vice President, Sia Zois, was in attendance. The great majority of the kids being auctioned off went for more than $100 each. The DJs Chille and Dennis kept a fun, and energetic atmosphere going until the end of the night.

The Maids are selling a fantastic new t-shirt. See it on http://www.malista.com/

Maria Tecos

Malista!

INDEPENDANCE DAY PARADE UPDATE

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 15:37:00 +0000

Archbishop Demetrios of America has accepted the Parade Committees invitation to be Grand Marshall. He will attend the Heritage Award Dinner/Celebration Saturday, March 28, 2009 at the Royalty House and offer Sunday's Doxology and oversee our Parade festivities, on March 29, 2009.

This is truly an honor for Detroit area Greek Americans and we look forward to an overwhelming attendance at this years parade events. More information on detroit.greekparades.com.

Nominate volunteers to receive coveted American Heritage Award, now in its second year.

The Hellenic Heritage Award is given in recognition of the diligent and successful endeavors in promoting the values of Greek civilization, Orthodox Faith, Hellenic Culture and heritage over many years in our region. Hellenic Heritage Award recipients will be recognized at an award banquet on March 28, 2009.In addition, recipients will accompany the Grand Marshal as Honorary Marshals at this year’s Detroit Greek Independence parade. Nomination now available at detroit.greekparades.com

See you at the parade.

Malista!

AHEPA CHAPTER MEETS WITH CONGRESSMAN GARY PETERS

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:47:00 +0000

Peter J. Parks, President, Alpha/Bloomfield Ahepa Chapter recently contributed to malista the attached photos and information regarding political advocacy efforts that are ongoing in the Greek American Community.

On Saturday, January 24, 2009, along with several other Ahepans and our wives, I had an opportunity to meet with first term U.S. Congressman, Gary Peters, from Michigan's 9th Congressional District. Over a wonderful dinner, we had an opportunity to speak with Congressman Peters about a number of issues of concern to Greeks and Greek-Americans, including the Visa-waiver program, the issue over the name "Macedonia", Cyprus, the Patriarchate, etc.
We also informed Congressman Peters that, at the national level, Ahepa maintains a "scorecard" relative to the voting record of each senator and congressman on issues of importance to Greece and to Greek-Americans. In discussing this issue we emphasized that his predecessor, Joe Knollenberg actually had a decent voting record on such issues.

All in all I think the dinner meeting was beneficial. We provided Mr. Peters with a number of print-outs and position papers. He expressed his sincere gratitude for our support during his election campaign and his intention to educate himself on these issues. We concluded the evening by agreeing to keep in close contact with Congressaman Peters' office and with the expressed intention to invite Mr. Peters to an upcoming Greek social function (i.e. the St. Nicholas Opa Fest) and/or to a speaking engagement to the local Greek community and/or our metropolitan Detroit Ahepa and Daughters of Penelope Chapters.

Malista!

Thamyris Chapter Donates to Liggett Breast Center

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:49:00 +0000

Representatives from the Grosse Pointe Chapter of the Daughters of Penelope presented La Juana Fuller, manager of the Liggett Breast Center, with a $5,000 donation.

This donation is from the proceeds of the Daughters’ annual fundraiser, “Festival of Tables,” held on October 26,2008 at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial. Guests for the first viewing were invited to peruse thirty tables decorated with themed displays ranging from “Baking for a Cure, designed by LaJuana Fuller in honor of breast cancer awareness to “Holiday Travel” by Bernadine Sherwood. Guests received goodie bags supplied by the Liggett Center and shopped the Gift Boutique that included items from Joan Whitman Interiors, Chaundy Art Gallery, Jacobson’s Alumni, Two Sisters Gourmet, Jewelry by Alexis, and PB and J Boutique. Guests for the second viewing bid on silent auction items, enjoyed dinner and watched a fashion show by Detroit Fashion Pages.

Event chair Natalie Simon presented the check to Ms. Fuller. Chapter President Sandy Moisides and Bernadine Sherwood, director of the Van Elslander Cancer Center, were on hand for the presentation. Ms. Simon stated that the group was thrilled with the attendance and success of this year’s event and added, “It’s about making a difference in the community and the lives of women. We know that this contribution will help women with special needs go through cancer diagnoses and treatment.”

The Daughters of Penelope, the women’s affiliate of the AHEPA organization headquartered in Washington, DC, is a leader in philanthropic, educational and cultural activities with local chapters in the United States, Canada, and Greece.

Young Living with Angel Brock

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:34:00 +0000

Add LIFE to your years, not just years to your life! Through Young Living, longevity and abundance are no longer a dream, but a reality. Enjoy the information on this site. I would be happy to assist you in any way. Click on "Contact" to get in touch with me. Thank you!

Angel has some wonderful recommendations on her site. Check it out! I especially like the roll on pepperment product, great for relieving headaches naturally.

"We honor our stewardship to champion nature's living energy, essential oils, by fostering a community of healing and discovery, while inspiring individuals to wellness, purpose and abundance."
www.youngliving.org/angelbrock

Malista!

New Baby in the Karpathios Family

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:45:00 +0000

New Baby in the Karpathios Family

Born to Angie and George Bourkoulas
on January 15th, 9:35am, weighing 7lbs. 7 ounces.

Big sister Elene

And the proud grandparents are: Anastasia and George Karpathios and Helen and Kosta Bourkoulas

Congratulations to all of you.

Malista!

Twist Girl Friends Enjoy Special Times

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:37:00 +0000

(As seen in the Freep)

Special birthdays: Annette Novotny, front row left, Harriett Bills and Louise Holt and back row left, Kleo Evans, Joann Kefalas, Elaine Moundros and Christine Korona have been friends since high school. Here they meet for dinner to celebrate their birthdays. (Kleo Evans)

Parade Committee Meets

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 21:06:00 +0000

On January 22, 2009 Independance Day Parade committee members met and shared in the age honored tradition of cutting the Vasilopita. Members are in the planning stages for this years Parade and are looking forward another success. Committee Chair, George Reganis, advises that Evzones and Amalias from Greece will be joining us at this years parade.

"We are looking forward to large turn out and total community support in making this parade one of our best ever."

This is must attend event for all Greek American's so mark your calendars for March 29, 2009 and plan to join in the fun. The official websitehttp://detroit.greekparades.com/has all of the details.

Malista!

Beyond the Rainbow - The Judy Garland Story

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 21:28:00 +0000

Malista was able to attend the opening night at the Meadowbrook Theatre for "Beyond the Rainbow" The Judy Garland Story by William Randall Beard, starring Kimberly Vanbiesbrouck as Judy Garland at Carnegie Hall and Andrea Mellos as Young Judy Garland. The cast who played multiple roles included: Chris Korte, Milica Govich, and Seth Amadei. The production was charged with drama and wonder. The musical score is vast and Ms. Vanbiesbrouck as Judy at Carnegie Hall does an amazing impersonation of the tragic star. Her performance of such memorable classics made famous by Ms. Garland was flawless and included, Swanee, Zing, Went the Strings of My Heart, the Trolley Song, and Me and My Gal, to name a few. Of Course, Somewhere Over the Rainbow brought the house to their feet, and the closing encore, San Framsico was a highlight well worth waiting for. Ms. Mellos was a wonderful supporting star and her poigniant rendering of young Judy was vivid and tugged on the strings of the audience's hearts. The duets performed by Ms. Vanbiesbrouck and Ms. Mellos were exceptional and allowed the audience to actually feel the flashback sequences.

The show will continue through February 7, 2009. Ticket are available online and at the Meadowbrook box office.

Help ERIC CHOLACK (IRAKLIS TSOLAKIS) get appointed Wayne County Circuit Court Judge

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:44:00 +0000

As many of you know, our own Eric Cholack (Greek: Ηρακλής
Τσωλάκης) is under serious consideration to be appointed to an
open judgeship on the Wayne County Circuit Court.

Eric has long been active in the Greek community. He has served
several terms on the board of the Hellenic Bar Association and on the
parish council of Sts. Constantine and Helen, where he is also a
Sunday School teacher.

Eric has both the mind and the temperament to make an
excellent judge. If you want to know more, his résumé is below.

One of the factors that the governor's office considers when choosing
judges is their public support. If you'd like to help Eric get
appointed, please drop an e-mail in support to the following:

1) stokesj@michigan.gov (Governor's Appointments Director Jim Stokes)
2) liedels@michigan.gov (Governor's Legal Counsel Steve Liedel)
3) ltgovcherry@michigan.gov (Lieutenant Governor John Cherry)

Please feel free to forward this to anyone who can help.

-Tom Christy

_________________________________________________________

Eric W. Cholack

Applicant for Judicial Appointment—Wayne County Circuit Court

Highlights

Experience in all three subject areas covered by Circuit Court: civil, criminal and family.

Almost six years as an assistant prosecuting attorney; conducted over 50 jury trials and hundreds of bench trials.

Almost twelve years practicing law in the civil arena.

Concentrated on family law matters during semester of law school working for legal aid bureau; served on Board of Directors of First Step (domestic violence shelter and agency).

Has developed strong, patient listening skills by mediating over 100 cases for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Adjunct professor at Wayne State University, University of Detroit-Mercy and Cooley Law Schools.

Served eight years on State Bar of Michigan Character & Fitness District Committee.

Led Hellenic Bar Association to successful year as President in 1998-99.

Elected twice to Parish Council at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Westland. ________________________________________________________________________________________

Did you know that Comedian Tina Fey is Greek American?

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 18:53:00 +0000

Bio below is an excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tina_Fey another successful "Greek Girl"

Fey was born in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia, the daughter of Zenobia "Jeanne" (née Xenakes), a brokerage employee, and Donald Fey, a university grant proposal-writer.[6] Fey's father is of German and Scottish ancestry and her mother of Greek ancestryFey was exposed to comedy early. She recalls:
“
I remember my parents sneaking me in to see Young Frankenstein. We would also watch Saturday Night Live, or Monty Python, or old Marx Brothers movies. My dad would let us stay up late to watch The Honeymooners. We were not allowed to watch The Flintstones though: my dad hated it because it ripped off The Honeymooners. I actually have a very low level of Flintstones knowledge for someone my age.
”
She also grew up watching SCTV and includes Catherine O'Hara among her role models. Fey attended Cardington Elementary School and Beverly Hills Middle School in Upper Darby. By middle school, she knew she was interested in comedy, even doing an independent-study project on the subject in eighth grade. She graduated from Upper Darby High School in 1988. Personal life
Fey is married to Jeff Richmond, a composer on SNL. They met at Chicago's Second City and dated for seven years before marrying in a Greek Orthodox ceremony on June 3, 2001. They have a daughter, Alice Zenobia Richmond, who was born on September 10, 2005, in New York City, where they reside.

Paras Pumkins Rock the Vote

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 14:19:00 +0000

I hope you enjoy my pumpkins as much as I enjoyed creating them. This year was more fun than ever. This file should be easier to view. So here this is what was featured for 2008:

At Peter's Columbus Academy - David Beckham - 162 lbs.

At our home - "Our Swing State Decides ... GO VOTE."

Brutus Buckeye - 219 lbs.

Barack Obama - 285 lbs.

John McCain - 290 lbs.

At the residence of Ohio's Governor Strickland "

Professor Pumpkinstein - 718 lbs. Cooking up biofuels for Ohio

Donated by Joe Gerchy and Lisa Gerchy for Ashville, OH

Pumpkins rock,Jeanette Paras

Submitted by Toni Mellos

Additional Pumkins can be found in the www.malista.com photo gallery

Kyklos Society for the Performing Arts

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 03:41:00 +0000

The Kyklos Society for the Performing Arts held their annual fundraiser this year on October 18, 2008 at the Royalty House. It was another evening of delightful entertainment. Malista has added new photos to our gallery. Follow the attached link for photos. Enjoy! Malista! http://picasaweb.google.com/ekeras1/KyklosSocietyForThePerformingArts2008#

Latest Release by Author Stathis Orphanos

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 03:13:00 +0000

Below is information regarding a new book of Stathis Orphanos' photographs (preface by Gore Vidal) relating to verse by Greece's greatest modern poets, Constantine Cavafy.

A Stathis Orphanos biography is available at his webite www.orphanos.com where his portraits of Greek celebrities (Mercouri, Elytis, Tsarouchis, Cacoyannis, etc.) can also be viewed in the "Great Greeks Gallery."

All the best,

Bart Rugo
Assistant to Stathis Orphanos

MY CAVAFY, CHANCE ENCOUNTERS

Photographs by Stathis Orphanos (www.orphanos.com)
Poetry by Constantine Cavafy
Translations by Evangelos Sachperoglou
Preface by Gore Vidal

A deluxe edition, issued hardbound, 15x12 inches, and priced at $65.

Available through the publishers at sylvanos@aol.com. or locally (Los Angeles) at Borders at Sunset & Vine, Skylight Books on Vermont, or, in West Hollywood, at A Different Light on Santa Monica Boulevard.

SYLVESTER & ORPHANOS
2484 Cheremoya Avenue
Hollywood, CA 90068-3070

(323) 461-7896

Los Angles publishers SYLVESTER & ORPHANOS, who previously specialized in literary limited-edition press books, printed and bound by hand, are introducing a new line of art and photography books. Their previous authors included Paul Bowles, John Cheever, Graham Greene, Christopher Isherwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Philip Roth, William Styron, John Updike, Tennessee Williams, Nobel laureates Nadine Gordimer, V.S. Naipaul, Odysseus Elytis, and many others.

Their first art book, TSAROUCHIS, THE FACE OF MODERN GREECE, was issued several years ago in a large illustrated folio with tributes to Greece's greatest modern artist, Yannis Tsarouchis, by twenty-five major international figures in the arts, including David Hockney, James Merrill, Sir Stephen Spender, John Updike, the photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson, Horst, Constantine Manos, and a full array of esteemed Greek authors, composers and artists - Mercouri, Elytis, Ritsos, Theodorakis, Hadjidaks, Xarhakos, Vangelis, Gavras, Cacoyannis, Dassin, Fassianos, Galanos, and others. The book was published in a limited edition, signed by all the contributors. Book designed by Yannis Tsarouchis. All cover art (for an outer case and two inner folios) was printed by serigraph. One folio contains all the texts and signed colophons and the other contains 36 mounted color prints.

Pylos Restaurant - New Year's Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Malista.com) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 02:55:00 +0000

Join us at PYLOS for a New Year's Eve Four Course Tasting Menu (Prix Fixe: $ 75.00) created by PYLOS Consulting Chef and Author, Diane Kochilas on Wednesday, 31 of December 2008 (Seating starts at 9:30 p.m.)http://www.pylosrestaurant.com/pylos_newyear_2008.pdf

New Year's in Greece is a major celebration. Luck plays into the night's festivities, with friends gathering together to play cards and to break the traditional New Year's bread, Vassilopita, which always has a coin--for good luck--inserted into it. Whoever gets the wedge with the coin ensures his luck for the coming year. It's also a time of feasting. On New Year's Eve friends often get together, either at home or out, for a festive meal, and on New Year's day, the feast day of St. Basil, families get together for a long, traditional midafternoon meal. At PYLOS, we are celebrating New Year's Eve in the traditional way, with great food and great wines to match, in an atmosphere that brims with Greek hospitality and all the warmth of home. Best wishes and Happy Holidays from all of us at PYLOS!

We would also like to inform you that our restaurant is opened on Christmas Eve (24 December 2008), but closed on Christmas Day (25 December 2008). The restaurant is opened for dinner on New Year's Day (1st January 2009).PYLOS Rustic Greek Home Cooking128 East 7th Street (between 1st Avenue & Avenue A)New York, NY 10009USATel: (212) 473-0220Fax: (212) 473-6433http://www.pylosrestaurant.com

info@pylosrestaurant.com