CLOSTER, NJ – The well-attended Greek Independence Day Celebration in Closter, NJ, took place on March 25, beginning with the Flag Raising Ceremony at Ruckman Park in Closter. The National Anthems were sung by talented opera singer Olga Xanthopoulou who is a Closter resident and vocal teacher at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Theologian in Tenafly, NJ.

The celebration also included traditional Greek dances and a reception with appetizers at Locale Ristorante following the program. Closter Mayor John C. Glidden gave the welcoming remarks and presented a proclamation for Greek Independence Day. The celebration was organized by Greek-American Borough of Closter Councilmember Anna Maroules and Locale Ristorante owner Raul Mazon.

Closter resident Mary Karas raised the flag during the ceremony. She is a Bergen County Hellenic Women’s Club Board Member who has served as President and Co-President of the organization for over 25 years.

The Hellenic Women’s Club is a social, cultural and philanthropic organization that plans various events and makes donations to many charities including Ronald McDonald House New York, St. Michael’s Home for the Elderly, St. Basil Academy, a children’s fund in Ukraine, local food pantries, among others.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 25 of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Theologian of Tenafly, NJ, also participated in the event.

Fr. Gregory Gilbert, presiding priest of the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. John the Theologian in Tenafly, also participated in the event, giving a blessing and sharing his best wishes to all those celebrating.

Teacher Anna Lilikas was the keynote speaker and discussed the history and significance of March 25th.

Tenafly Mayor Mark Zinna also attended the event and shared his greetings and best wishes for Greek Independence Day.