Update | AHEPA Supreme Convention in Cyprus Kicks Off!

 

American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association

July 23, 2024

Contact: AHEPA Headquarters Phone: 202.232.6300 E-mail: ahepa@ahepa.org

The Order of AHEPA proudly kicked off the 2024 Supreme Convention in Larnaca, Cyprus! On the eve of our opening ceremonies, July 21, the AHEPA Board of Trustees hosted a Welcome Reception on the Radisson Beach Lawn. During the reception, Supreme President Savas C. Tsivicos was honored to award Lieutenant General Georgios Tsitsikostas, chief of the Cypriot National Guard, with the AHEPA Military Service medal, and U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, with the

George C. Marshall Award for excellence in Diplomatic Service. Both of these individuals exemplify the best of the Hellenic spirit in executing their jobs, both supporting freedom and human rights for the people of Cyprus. On Monday, July 22, AHEPA held it's official Opening Ceremonies at the Marios Tokos Municipal Garden Theatre in Limassol. This reception, coordinated by the Deputy Ministry of Culture, honored the church of Cyprus for its near 2,000-year commitment to its principles and teachings. Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides gave a welcome address and noted the importance of an organization like AHEPA being 102 years old and continuing to do such tremendous amounts of community service across the globe.

Photos: Dimitrios Panagos

Supreme President Tsivicos presented his opening remarks, challenging all gathered to stand up and be counted in support of Cyprus and its freedom. Additional speakers for the event included His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America and His Beatitude Archbishop Georgios of New Justiniana and All Cyprus, both who were presented with awards that evening. His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros received the 2024 AHEPA Freedom Award, and AHEPA announced a new scholarship for Holy Cross seminarians. AHEPA presented His Beatitude Archbishop Georgios with the Archbishop Iakovos Humanitarian Award for his exemplary service to the people of Cyprus.

Photos: Dimitrios Panagos

The evening's master of ceremonies was AHEPA Board of Trustees Chairman Nicholas A. Karacostas, PSP, and welcoming comments were offered by AHEPA family members including Daughters of Penelope Grand President Marianthi Treppiedi. The evening's highlight was a classical concert in the historic open air theater that highlighted the 50-year occupation of Cyprus. In this moving instrumental extravaganza, the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra and "Aris" Limassol Choir musicians honored those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Photo: PIOCy

Tuesday marked the beginning of the AHEPA convention excursions. In conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism, AHEPA provided tours for convention guests to showcase area historic sites, churches and wineries. The first day of meetings went smoothly, and reports were given to AHEPA members and delegates. Financial reports, auditor reports, and officer reports were all accepted as well, and everything is set in order to conduct elections for new officers! Last, but certainly not least, the AHEPA Convention Golf Tournament began at the Aphrodite Hills Golf Club PGA National Course in Paphos! We'll update you with winners later this week!

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