Panigyri of the Myrtidiotissa
The Kytherian Society of California
celebrated its 64th annual
Panigyri of the Myrtidiotissa at
Resurrection Greek Orthodox Church on
October 5, 2014
Following a wonderful service and Artoklasia by Fr. Michael Prevas, KSOCA members and friends met in the church hall for our annual Panigyri Luncheon.
Welcome & Opening Prayer
The event began with an Opening Prayer by Fr. Michael Prevas, followed by opening remarks and welcome by President Katherine Stathis.
Memorial donations were made in honor of those named above. A moment of silence was observed as their names were read aloud.
During their meal, members enjoyed watching videos of Kythera including I Love Kythera.com's "Kythera, 5 Years in 5 Mintues."
Appetizers & Lunch
Yianni Varelis and his crew prepared a wonderful array of delicious appetizers which included Yianni's famous Spanakopeta with his home made phillo.
Luncheon entrées included a choice of Greek Style Chicken with Olive Oil, Lemon, & Oregano, Greek Lamb Shank with Orzo, or Pasta Primavera.
Delicious galaktoboureko & baklava were served for dessert.
Members memorialized those who passed away this past year by offering a few words in their memory.
Sadly, only days prior to the luncheon, members learned of the passing of Stratis Theodorakakis, the Director of the Kythera Philharmonic Orchestra for over 60 years.
May their memory be eternal.
2014 Scholarship Recipient
President, Katherine Stathis presented the 2014 Scholarship award to Steven Nickolas. Steve is attending Gonzaga University, In Spokane, Washington, therefore he was unable to attend the luncheon.
Members watched a video recording Steven sent offering his gratitude and appreciation for the scholarship.
Steven is pursuring a degree in Civil Engineering.
2014 Honorary Kytherian
Vikki Vrettos Fraioli presented this year's Honorary Kytherian Award to Cathy Zamenes. Cathy attends the luncheon every year without fail and is always there willing to offer a helping hand.
Kythera News
John "Tasso" Conomos and Eve Cominos who recently returned from the isalnd, shared news from Kythera.
Kythera Municipal Library Maintenance Fund
Vikki discussed the Kythera Municipal Library Maintentance Fund, a fund being organized and maintained by the Kytherian Association of Austraila to help defray the costs of the ongoing daily supply needs of the library.
To date, the KSOCA has collected $2125 in donations for this fund.
Book Sales
Vikki also shared the availbility of two books for purchase through the KSOCA: James Prineas's - Kythera from the Air, and Kristina Williamson's - One Year on Kythera.
(If you were unable to attend the luncheon and are interested in purchasing a copy, email Vikki directly.)
Vikki also discussed the upcoming Kytheraismos Symposium to be held in Sydney, Austraila November 6-9, 2014. Vikki and Cynthia Cavalenes-Jarvis will be attending as representatives of the KSOCA and presenting as well.
Raffle & Auction
The Panigyri culminated with the KSOCA's notorious Raffle & Auction where everyone is a winner!
