PENNSAUKEN, NJ – The Federation of Hellenic-American Societies of Philadelphia and the Greater Delaware Valley kicked off the New Year with their annual Vasilopita meeting on January 17. The yearly tradition has continued to be held at and hosted by the Pan Icarian Brotherhood of America ‘Atheras’ Chapter at their ‘house’ located in Pennsauken, NJ.

The meeting began with the prayer, blessing and cutting of the vasilopita. The wonderful food and warm hospitality of the Pan Icarian Brotherhood ‘Atheras’ Chapter was enjoyed and appreciated by the member organizations of the Federation.

The meeting continued with President Georgia Chletcos announcing the 2023 Eleftheria Medal recipient, Greek Ambassador to the United States Alexandra Papadopoulou. President Chletcos said: “Ambassador Papadopoulou has had an honorable long career in diplomatic service, and it is our honor to recognize her with the highest honor given by our Federation. The award and dignitaries dinner will be held on Saturday April 1, at 5 PM at the Adelphia Restaurant in Deptford, NJ.”

The meeting continued with Vice President and parade co-chair Harry Karapalides, Esq. outlining many of the details for the 2023 Greek independence celebration. The flag raising ceremony will take place on March 31, 1 PM, at City Hall in Philadelphia. Plans are underway to secure the Presidential Guard of Greece to participate in the celebrations of the 202nd Anniversary of Greek Independence in Philadelphia. The highlight of the weekend will be the Greek Independence Parade on Sunday, April 2. This year’s parade theme will highlight Asia Minor. The after-parade reception will be held immediately following the parade at the Sheraton Hotel’s Liberty Ballroom, 201 N. 17th Street in Philadelphia, PA. The reception will include community dance groups and special presentations. The parade committee is working very hard to present a celebration that will honor and commemorate Greek Independence while creating events that the entire Greek community will have an opportunity to participate in.

The first parade meeting will be held at St. Demetrios Church in Upper Darby, PA, on Wednesday, February 1, 7 PM. The community is invited to come and learn about all the details and volunteer for the many committees needed to produce this event. The next general assembly meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 21, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Media, PA. All delegates, members of the churches and organizations are invited to participate.