WHITESTONE, NY – The Andreas T. Stamboulidis Parthenon AHEPA Chapter 495 held its latest monthly meeting on November 10 virtually via GoToMeeting due to restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last three monthly meetings were held in person, following all COVID-19 protocols and guidance. The chapter usually holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of the month at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Whitestone, NY.

Recently, the chapter made a $1,000 donation to the Malan Syndrome Foundation. Malan Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by a change in the Nuclear Factor One X (NFIX) gene. The disorder produces numerous debilitating effects and is characterized by overgrowth, an unusual facial phenotype, intellectual disability, and behavioral problems.

As is their annual custom, the chapter donated turkeys and boxes of canned vegetables and other goods to their local Philoptochos Society which will distribute them to families that have requested and require assistance this year. In addition, the chapter annually commemorates the name day of the founder of the chapter, Andreas T. Stamboulidis. There is usually an Artoclasia in the church, followed by a reception in the church hall on the Sunday closest to the November 30th Name Day. In light of the pandemic, the chapter discussed alternate arrangements to commemorate the occasion. The chapter was established on March 12, 1981 and will be celebrating their 40th anniversary this coming March.

In attendance at the virtual meeting were District 6 Secretary Chris Pappis and District 6

Treasurer Petros Ragoussis. This is the home chapter of Past District 6 Governor Ted Stamas who also attended the meeting. The 2020-2021 chapter officers are President Petros Ragoussis, Vice Presidents Antonios Samartzis and Aristides Papadakos, Secretary Hristos Arniotis, and Treasurer Mike Katsandonis.

AHEPA, founded in 1922, is the largest and oldest grassroots association of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes with more than 400 chapters across the United States, Canada, and Europe. AHEPA’s mission is to promote the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism.