The National Herald:newsletter

'Mazi' with our Sponsors November 6, 2025 ☀️ Good Morning, Mazi Readers! Greece is moving full speed ahead, with record tourism revenues, major infrastructure investments, and fresh momentum in energy and defense. Across the Atlantic, Greek-American leaders are being recognized for their achievements while communities from Tallahassee to Astoria keep Hellenic culture alive through festivals, art, and philanthropy. And in true Greek spirit, stories of kindness and unity, from free meals in Syosset to OXI Day tributes on stage, remind us that generosity and pride in our heritage are what bind us together. This edition is made possible thanks to our sponsors: North Shore Farms, Limani Restaurant, Divani Collection Hotels, Kofinas Fertility Group, Sand Castle, Parklane Resort & Spa Limassol and of course, Ethnikos Kirikas / The National Herald. Respectfully, Eraklis A. Diamataris ECONOMIC ESPRESSO 💶 Tourism Revenues Surge Past €40B as New Fees Boost Greece’s Coffers Global and U.S. Market Pulse We're Soaring: Greece’s tourism income is on track to surpass €40 billion in 2025, driven by record arrivals and new levies such as the climate resilience and cruise passenger fees. The government says the measures will help fund local infrastructure, though questions remain over how roughly €370 million in collected revenues will be distributed. CROSS-ATLANTIC CURRENTS 🤝 PM Mitsotakis Welcomes New U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle Insights from Greece, Cyprus and America ­ A Warm Welcome: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis received newly appointed US Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle at the Maximos Mansion, highlighting that Greek-American relations are at a “historic high.” The two discussed expanding cooperation in energy, technology, and investment, with Mitsotakis emphasizing Greece’s strategic role in regional stability and Guilfoyle calling it an honor to serve in the “cradle of democracy.” 🇻🇦 Pope Leo XIV’s Historic Visit to Turkey and the Phanar Insights from Greece, Cyprus and America ­ Revelations: Pope Leo XIV’s late-November trip to Turkey will mark both the Thronal Feast of St. Andrew and the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea. The National Herald exclusively reveals that the visit, complete with meetings with President Erdoğan, Patriarch Bartholomew, and a detailed multi-day itinerary across Ankara, Istanbul, and Nicaea, is an official state visit, underscoring its diplomatic and ecclesiastical significance. Sand Castle The perfect Cinderella setting for your big day Discover Long Island’s premier venue for life’s most memorable celebrations. From breathtaking gardens to exquisite ballrooms, Sand Castle offers the perfect blend of tradition, elegance, and personalized service for weddings, galas, and special events. ­ Start Planning Today HELLENIC HORIZONS 🔬 Dr. Pannie Trifillis Honored as Cyprus’ Scientist of the Year Greek & American Business Highlights Axia!: Dr. Pannie Trifillis received the Scientist/Academic Award at the Madame Figaro Cyprus Women of the Year Awards for her pioneering work developing treatments for rare diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. In her remarks, she dedicated the honor to patients and families “whose strength and positivity inspire me every single day.” ⚖️ Eunice G. Buhler Recognized Among America’s Top Young Lawyers Greek & American Business Highlights NextGen: Chicago-born Greek-American attorney Eunice G. Buhler has been named one of the top 40 young lawyers in the U.S. by the American Bar Association and one of Illinois’ top 40 lawyers by the Chicago Law Bulletin. Now General Counsel at tech giant G2, Buhler credits her success to her Hellenic roots, family values, and a lifelong dedication to learning and community service. 🎨 Vasilis Marmatakis Keeps Lanthimos’ Posters Wonderfully Weird Greek & American Business Highlights An Acquired Taste: Greek designer Vasilis Marmatakis, the creative mind behind Yorgos Lanthimos’ iconic movie posters since Dogtooth (2009), was profiled by The New York Times for his surreal and thought-provoking work. From The Lobster to Poor Things and now Bugonia, Marmatakis said he strives to “visualize a profound aspect of the film without explaining it,” capturing Lanthimos’ dark, witty, and visually stunning worlds with a uniquely Greek touch. 🎤 Eurovision Star Klavdia Shines on Times Square Billboard Greek & American Business Highlights ­ Empire City: Greek singer and Eurovision finalist Klavdia Papadopoulou made her Spotify debut in dazzling fashion, appearing on a Times Square billboard as part of the platform’s global EQUAL campaign. The 23-year-old artist, now Spotify’s EQUAL ambassador for Greece, celebrates the milestone while her hit single Sintrimmia surpasses 50 million streams and her debut album Asteromata continues to gain international attention. 🥙 Platia Greek Kitchen Serves Hope with Free Meals Greek & American Business Highlights ­ More of This Please: Platia Greek Kitchen in Syosset, NY, is offering free meals daily from 11:30 AM to 4 PM to anyone facing food insecurity amid the government shutdown and SNAP benefit cuts. With a message of compassion and unity, the restaurant reminds its neighbors that no one in their community should go hungry. COMMUNITY NEWS 🏅 Chian Federation Honors Michael Kratsios with Homeric Award Diaspora in Focus A Heartwarming Ceremony: The Chian Federation recognized Michael Kratsios, former White House Chief Technology Officer, with the prestigious Homeric Award at its annual gala in Astoria. Surrounded by family, dignitaries, and community leaders, Kratsios reflected on his Chian roots, Orthodox faith, and commitment to innovation, leadership, and service guided by the spirit of philotimo. 🏆 Taso Pardalis Honored as Hellene of the Year Diaspora in Focus Axios!: At the Hellenic Bar Association Foundation’s 75th Annual Scholarship Ball in Illinois, Taso Pardalis received the Hellene of the Year Award for his professional excellence and service to the Hellenic community. The HALC Vice Chairman and New York attorney was recognized alongside other leaders in a celebration that also awarded scholarships to promising law students of Greek descent. 🌟 Gabriella Sartzis Wins Settlement Against St. Basil Academy Diaspora in Focus ­ Victory: Gabriella Sartzis, a mother of three, reached a court settlement after months of battling an eviction from St. Basil Academy in Garrison, New York. The agreement grants her family financial assistance and time to relocate, closing a tense chapter marked by safety concerns and community outcry. 🌉 Fotios Stravoravdis Builds Bridges Between Greece and the Diaspora Diaspora in Focus ­ THI/TNH Takeover: New York–based international development consultant Fotios Stravoravdis is using his role with The Hellenic Initiative to connect Greeks abroad with those back home. A proud advocate for mentorship and education, he aims to help empower the next generation through knowledge-sharing, cultural pride, and a shared vision for Greece’s future. 🍎 Brooklyn Leaders Urge Congress to Restore SNAP Amid Shutdown Diaspora in Focus ­ Help Is Needed: State Senator Andrew Gounardes and fellow officials gathered in Bay Ridge to call on Congress to reopen the federal government and restore funding for the SNAP program. With benefits for 42 million Americans set to expire, the coalition warned that millions, including nearly 1.8 million New Yorkers, face food insecurity due to political gridlock. 📜 Honoring Greek Language Excellence in New York Diaspora in Focus ­ Proficiency: The Consulate General of Greece in New York held two heartfelt ceremonies at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, celebrating students who earned Certificates of Greek Proficiency. The events highlighted the enduring power of the Greek language to unite generations and preserve cultural identity across the Diaspora. 🏆 United Hellenic Voters of America Honor Excellence at Annual Gala Diaspora in Focus Tribute to Service: The United Hellenic Voters of America hosted their annual Awards Gala in Des Plaines, Illinois, recognizing civic and business leaders for their service and impact. Majority Leader Robyn Gabel was named 2025 Person of the Year, while Distinguished Greek-American Awards honored figures like Tassos Chronopoulos for advancing Hellenic values and leadership across generations. 🇬🇷 Honoring the Spirit of ‘OXI’ Diaspora in Focus Pride & Patriotism: Students of the St. Demetrios Jamaica Greek Afternoon School marked ‘OXI’ Day with poems, songs, and tributes celebrating Greece’s defiance on October 28, 1940. In a message shared with The National Herald, Dr. Polyvia Parara of the University of Maryland reflected on the same historic day, describing it as a lasting symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the Hellenic spirit’s devotion to freedom. FOOD & CULTURE 🎸 Mick Jagger Rocks Up in Chania for a Quiet Tour Tastes and Traditions Explored Rock Meets Ruins: Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger visited Chania, Crete, touring the ancient sites of Archea Eleftherna and Kastelli Hill before dining at a local taverna. When asked about the Parthenon Marbles, Jagger declined to take a stance, keeping his visit low-key while exploring the island’s rich history. 🍩 Greek Donut Day Delights Across New York Tastes and Traditions Explored Glaze Craze: Four Greek-owned favorites are serving up everything from classic glazed to golden loukoumades this National Donut Day. From Brooklyn’s iconic Peter Pan and Mikes Donut Shop to Astoria’s Serano Bakery and Gold N Honey, each brings a sweet taste of Hellenic tradition to New York’s donut scene. ☕ A Taste of Greece at Baby Blues Luncheonette Tastes and Traditions Explored Eva Explores: In Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Greek-Australian co-owner Costa Damaskos and partner Jake Marsiglia are redefining the classic diner with a Hellenic twist at Baby Blues Luncheonette. Blending Greek, American, and Australian flavors, the cozy spot serves dishes like halloumi-topped eggs, baklava banana bread, and a perfect frappe, all made with imported Greek ingredients and a generous dose of filoxenia. 🎃 Sweet & Savory Delights: Cooking with Pumpkin and Roasted Squash Tastes and Traditions Explored Recipes of the Week: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, roasted squash and pumpkin shine in both cozy breakfasts and hearty salads. Try fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes with Olive Oil, spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and Greek honey, or a simple Roasted Squash drizzled with olive oil and lemon. For something savory, toss Roasted Squash Salad with radicchio, walnuts, and Dodoni feta for a Mediterranean flavor that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. 📚 ‘My Greek Girls’ Celebrates Greece’s Real-Life Heroines Tastes and Traditions Explored ­ Book of the Week: Maria Socratous’ My Greek Girls, Charismatic Heroines of the Greek World spotlights the extraordinary women who shaped Greek history - from Empress Theodora and Bouboulina to Melina Mercouri and Aliki Vouyouglaki. Blending art, history, and storytelling, Socratous honors the courage, brilliance, and resilience of these figures across centuries, offering readers an intimate journey through the lives of Greece’s most captivating heroines. 🐐 Who’s Your Greek-American G.O.A.T.? Tastes and Traditions Explored Reader's Choice: TNH is crowdsourcing the Top 20 Greek-American athletes from a slate of 50 nominees, and bragging rights are on the line. Make your picks and pitch your No. 1 in 200 words for a shot at a feature in the Nov. 15 special section. ECONOMY & SOCIETY 🏳️ Three Brothers Surrender in Deadly Crete Vendetta Case Snapshots of Change Fatal Family Feud: Three brothers linked to a violent shootout in Vorizia, Crete, that left two dead and four injured have turned themselves in to authorities. Police say the confrontation stemmed from a house bombing and believe more suspects, including a hospitalized sibling and cousin, may be connected to the ongoing feud. 🪰 Drought and Fruit Fly Slash Greece’s Olive Oil Output Snapshots of Change ­ Low Yields, High Heat: Greece’s olive oil production is expected to drop below 200,000 tons in 2025 due to persistent drought and infestations of the olive fruit fly, according to Olive Oil Times. Producers from regions including Messenia, Laconia, Crete, and Chalkidiki report yields cut by as much as half, with experts warning of lower quality oils as rising temperatures and dry conditions strain the country’s groves. 🚰 Greece Unveils €2.5B Plan to Combat Water Shortages Snapshots of Change Water Wake-Up: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a €2.5 billion program to safeguard Greece’s water supply amid worsening drought conditions, warning that Attica faces a “very serious” risk without swift action. The plan includes diverting rivers to the Evinos Reservoir, drilling new wells, building a major desalination plant, and funding 151 island water projects to strengthen long-term sustainability. 🦠 Infectious Diseases Surge Nearly 47% in Greece Snapshots of Change Flu, Fevers & Flies: Greece saw a 46.9% rise in infectious diseases in 2024, totaling 6,134 cases, according to ELSTAT. Flu cases nearly doubled, whooping cough spiked from 12 to 440, and West Nile virus rose 36%, while only tuberculosis saw a decline as health authorities warned of seasonal and climate-linked outbreaks. 🪖 Greece to Introduce Voluntary Conscription for Women in 2026 Snapshots of Change Women in Uniform: Defense Minister Nikos Dendias announced that Greece will begin voluntary conscription for women in 2026, forming a unit of 100–150 recruits. The initiative aims to boost women’s participation in the Armed Forces, currently at 17%, and foster a culture of full gender integration in national defense. 🏢 Defense Ministry Unveils New Bioclimatic Façade in Athens Snapshots of Change Going Green: Greece’s Ministry of National Defense revealed its newly redesigned bioclimatic façade on Mesogeion Avenue, blending modern architecture with sustainability. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Defense Minister Nikos Dendias attended the event, where Dendias announced an upcoming design competition for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and Mitsotakis highlighted the country’s €28 billion, 12-year Armed Forces modernization program. 📉 Cyprus Jobless Rate Falls to 4.9%, Among EU’s Lowest Snapshots of Change ­ Werk: Cyprus’ unemployment dropped to 4.9% in September, ranking it among the five lowest in the EU and below the bloc’s 6% average, according to Eurostat. Despite the progress, youth unemployment remains high at 17.2%, surpassing the EU average of 14.8%. ✈️ Turkey Moves for Eurofighters as Greece Expands Rafale Fleet Snapshots of Change ­ Arms Race: Despite ongoing diplomatic calm, Greece and Turkey continue bolstering their air forces in a quiet arms race over the Aegean. Turkey’s $11 billion deal for 20 Eurofighter Typhoons has prompted Athens to pursue more advanced Rafales, aiming to preserve its technological edge as both nations modernize for the decades ahead. 📮 Greek Post Chief Resigns as 204 Branch Closures Proceed Snapshots of Change Return to Sender?: Hellenic Post CEO Grigoris Sklikas’ resignation will not halt the government’s plan to close 204 post offices nationwide, spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed. Despite backlash from local communities and lawmakers, officials say the cost-cutting reform is essential to modernize ELTA, expand digital services, and keep the postal system financially viable. ⚓ Violent Attacks Linked to Customs Fraud Rock Piraeus Port Snapshots of Change ­ Dark Tides: Amid warnings from EU prosecutors about organized crime at COSCO-controlled Piraeus Port, a customs officer and broker were brutally assaulted following major fraud investigations. Authorities suspect the attacks are reprisals tied to a smuggling network that evaded EU duties by mislabeling Chinese imports, with one victim reportedly targeted after breaking ranks with the criminal group. 🔫 Man Acquitted in Journalist’s Murder Killed in Arachova Hit Snapshots of Change Silenced: Yannis Lalas, recently cleared in the 2021 assassination of reporter Giorgos Karaivaz, was gunned down with a Kalashnikov in a hotel room in Arachova. Police suspect a contract killing tied to underworld rivalries, noting Lalas had survived a previous ambush in 2025 and was long linked to organized crime circles. 🚸 Psychiatrists Warn of Alarming Rise in Youth Violence Snapshots of Change Violence Goes Viral: Greek psychiatrists are urging a shift toward prevention after police reported growing youth violence, including organized attacks filmed for social media. Experts link the surge to inequality, insecurity, and digital pressures, with new seminars launching Nov. 8 to address adolescent aggression and promote mental resilience. 🚫 Workplace Harassment Cases in Greece Surge Sharply Snapshots of Change Workplace Woes: Complaints of workplace harassment in Greece jumped from 151 in 2022 to 3,018 in 2024, according to the Labor Inspectorate. Most incidents involved psychological or verbal abuse between colleagues, while officials said stronger protections and mediation processes have helped resolve nearly a third of cases without court action. TRAVEL & CONNECTIVITY 🇮🇶 Aegean Airlines to Launch Direct Athens–Baghdad Flights Expanding Horizons Flight Path: Starting December 16, Aegean Airlines will begin direct flights from Athens to Baghdad, becoming the first European carrier to do so, Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis announced during his visit to Iraq. The move aims to strengthen economic and cultural ties as Iraq’s improving security and infrastructure, bolstered by a $764 million airport upgrade, attract renewed international engagement. 🏝️ Hotel Boom Threatens Milos’ Natural Beauty, Group Warns Expanding Horizons ­ Concrete on Milos: The Environmental and Cultural Heritage Society (ELLET) has sounded the alarm over unchecked hotel construction on Milos, saying it’s causing “irreversible damage” to the island’s landscape. With more than 50 hotels in development, ELLET accused the Environment Ministry of inaction and urged an immediate halt to new projects until proper urban plans are in place. 💰 Cyprus Tourism Breaks Records with €2.47B in Revenue Expanding Horizons ­ Cashing In: Tourism in Cyprus hit historic highs in 2025, with revenues reaching €2.47 billion in the first eight months - a 16.5% jump from last year. August alone brought in €581.8 million as arrivals surged to 602,000, led by visitors from the U.K., Israel, and Poland, with hotels maintaining over 80% occupancy well into the fall. 🚘 GOINGS-ON: NOVEMBER 6TH - 16TH Spotlighting some upcoming community events: NEW LONDON, CT – Saint Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church hosts its annual Greek Festival (November 5-7)NEW YORK, NY — The acclaimed Greek-American TV host, six-time Emmy Nominee and author, Debbie Matenopoulos, is coming to New York for a one-night-only evening of Mediterranean hospitality at Limani in Rockefeller Center where she will showcase her latest book, Greek.ish. (November 6) TAMPA, FL – St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church hosts its 45th Greek Festival (November 7-8) UPPER DARBY, PA – St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church hosts its annual Greek Wine and Food Festival (November 7-9) ASTORIA, NY – After two and a half years of development, the Greek Cultural Center and the Garret Theatre's world premiere, ‘Dead Things’, written by Haley Schwartz and directed by Jack Dryden, tells the story of literary icon Mary Shelley (author of Frankenstein), who, “like every woman in the 1800s, wants a bright and beautiful and wild life. (Thru November 9th) NEW YORK, NY – The St. Eleftherios Philoptochos Society invites its members and all the Greek-American community to their Annual Luncheon immediately following the Divine Liturgy in the Church Hall. Food, wine, homemade sweets and coffee will be served (November 9) NEW YORK, NY – The Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce (HACC) hosts its 73rd Annual Person of the Year Gala honoring Dr. John Coustas, President and CEO, Danaos Corporation, at Cipriani Wall Street. The black tie event features a special guest performance by Anna Vissi. (November 14) TUCSON, AZ – St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church hosts its annual Greek Festival (November 14) LOS ANGELES, CA – The lecture ‘Between the Minoans and the Mycenaeans: Craft Technologies in the Second Millennium BC Aegean’ takes place at UCLA’s Royce Hall, hosted by the UCLA Stavros Niarchos Foundation Center for the Study of Hellenic Culture in collaboration with The J. Paul Getty Museum and held in conjunction with the exhibition ‘The Kingdom of Pylos: Warrior-Princes of Mycenaean Greece’ (November 15) ASTORIA, NY – The Greek Cultural Center presents ‘Remembering the Polytechnic Uprising in 1973' (November 15) ASTORIA, NY – The Greek Cultural Center in Astoria presents a rare and Magical Karagiozis performance ‘The Magician’ (November 16) ­ 🕰️ THIS WEEK IN GREEK HISTORY ­ November 8, 1866 ­ On this day, the Arkadi Holocaust occurred during the Cretan Revolution against Ottoman rule. Over 900 Greeks, mostly women and children, sought refuge in Arkadi Monastery. Rather than surrender, the Cretans ignited gunpowder, sacrificing themselves. The event became a symbol of Cretan resistance and drew worldwide attention. ­ ­ November 11, 1990 ­ On this day, Alexis Minotis, acclaimed Greek actor and director, passed away. Born in Chania, on the island of Crete, he gained international fame for his performances in ancient Greek tragedies and films like Hitchcock’s Notorious. Married to Katina Paxinou, he helped found Greece’s National Theatre and revived classical drama worldwide. ­ ­ November 12, 1953 ­ On this day, Vasilis Karras, beloved Greek singer and songwriter of laïkó music, was born in Kokkinochori, Kavala. Known for his raspy voice and emotional depth, he rose to fame in the 1980s. Also on this day in 1905, Cypriot composer Solon Michaelides was born in Nicosia, later shaping Greek and Cypriot music through his teaching, compositions, and research. ­ The National Herald Archive Digitalization thanks to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) November 6, 1956 Ceasefire Declared in the Canal Pending Negotiations The Military Commander of Port Said Discusses Terms of Surrender with the British Russian Troops Completely Isolated Hungary from the Outside World - Russia Warns: “We Are Defending Ourselves in Hungary” Greece Will Take Part in U.N. Measures Eisenhower Sends Sharp Messages to Prime Ministers Bulganin and Macmillan U.N. Warnings to the Warring Powers in Egypt Today Convenes the Advisory Assembly of the Balkan States The Press War – Against Both Russia and Britain Collapse of the Migerton Bank Vote Today ­ 🇬🇷 GREEK WORDS OF THE WEEK Έγκλημα eh-GLEE-mah "Crime" - Δικαστήριο thee-kah-STEE-ree-oh "Court of Law" - Κατηγορούμενος kah-tee-yoh-ROO-meh-nohs "Defendant" 📸 PHOTO OF THE WEEΚ ­ Kimberly Guilfoyle Becomes First Female U.S. Ambassador to Greece ­ Kimberly Guilfoyle, the new U.S. Ambassador to Greece and the first woman to hold the post, listens to the national anthem alongside Ambassador Dimitrios Zevelakis during a ceremony to present her diplomatic credentials at the Presidential Palace in Athens on November 4. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) ­ Like this Newsletter? Want to Sponsor? Let us know! Did someone forward you this newsletter? Join it for yourself! Simply send an email with "MAZI" in the subject line to vdiamataris@ekirikas.com or ediamataris@ekirikas.com and you're all set! Let's embark on this journey together, exploring the richness of Greek economics, culture, and beyond — one minute at a time. See you next week! Explore more in-depth coverage at The National Herald's website: www.thenationalherald.com Brought to you by the news source you rely on most for independent reporting about the Greek community: The National Herald