This past weekend, many descended on Fort Lee , NJ for District 5’s convention. The convention was a centennial celebration convention for AHEPA Alexander Hamilton Chapter 54 of Paramus, NJ. Convention chair Dennis Koukounaras, Chapter 54 President Paul Adams and outgoing District Governor John Kontolios led the local chapter effort in this historic North Jersey town at the base of the George Washington Bridge. The selection of Fort Lee as the site of this centennial celebration also paid homage to the Fort Lee Sons of Pericles, once a chapter of the Junior order with over 200 members on an annual basis.
The Supreme Lodge was well represented by Supreme President Tsivicos, Supreme Governor Dean Moskos, Supreme Counselor Demetrios Kirkiles and National Sons Advisor Ted Vittas. The incoming District Governor Louis Stefanou, a former Son of Pericles from the heyday of the Junior Order, was nominated in a heartfelt speech by Cherry Hill Chapter member Nick Horiates, a former SOP District Governor. Along with Ted Vittas, these three brothers paid homage to the area and the Sons of Pericles’ rich past, bright future and upcoming Centennial.
The highlight was of course the presence of Supreme President Savas Tsivicos. With the assistance of the Supreme Officers he presented AHEPA Heroes Medals recognizing outstanding national service to Lee Millas, Jim Knicos, Asteris Fanikos, Dean Solomos, Vasso Chrysanthou, Phil Vogis, Constantine Mikelis, Jim Rozanitis, Stathi Karadonis and Steve Marmarou. With the outgoing district lodge by his side, the Supreme President presented the district’s Ahepan of the Year award to Anastasius Efstratiades, Esq. as the district also recognized this brother’s outstanding contributions to the Journey to Greece program.
The Supreme President looks forward with the assistance of all members to further advancing the endowment for Journey to Greece to secure the future of this program for the upcoming generations, ensuring our youth continue to promote Hellenism. He looks forward to seeing each of us in Disney World this coming July.
