ASTORIA – The Federation of Dodecanese Societies USA held its Taverna Night and cutting of the Vasilopita at Nick Andriotis Hall in Astoria on January 12. Archimandrite Nektarios Papazafiropoulos, Dean of St. Demetrios Cathedral, presided over the blessing and the cutting of the Vasilopita noting the great turnout at the event and especially the number of young people in attendance. Federation President Maria Marangos, Kalymnos, gave the welcoming remarks, wishing all the best for a Happy New Year, and thanking all those in attendance.

Fr. Papazafiropoulos wished everyone a Happy New Year and congratulated the Federation for another successful event, once again bringing together all ages, like a family, and wished continued progress for all, not only the societies but all the families as well. Following the blessing of the Vasilopita, and the traditional pieces for Jesus, St. Basil the Great, and the church, a piece was cut for each of the member societies.

Attendees then enjoyed a buffet dinner, live music and dancing, and a raffle. The prizes included $500 for the first prize, $200 for the second and third prizes, as well as gift certificates for Tiles by Kia, Kyma Restaurant, and Bareburger.

Among those present were Vice President Nikos Kartalis, Rhodes; Assistant Secretary and former youth President Zoe Pilios, Symi; former Vice President John Sakellis, Kos; former President Theologos Tiliakos, Patmos; Second Vice President Andreas Goustas, Tilos; Timoleon Kokkinos, Nisyros; and Demosthenes Triantafillou, The National Herald’s 2018 Educator of the Year. The Federation’s Secretary Adamantia Mari, Treasurer Evdokia Koullias, and Assistance Treasurer Stacy Figetakis were also in attendance.

The live music was performed by the talented musicians John Themelis, Savvas Perselis, and Andreas Goustas, who kept everyone dancing well into the night.