Weaving the Past and Present: UCLA SNF Hellenic Centre Explores Geraki's Ancient Weaving Tradition

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“A rare opportunity to view the rich cultural tapestry of Geraki, featuring heirlooms that tell the stories of generations.”

The UCLA Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Hellenic Centre is set to host a special event focused on the rich weaving heritage of Geraki, Lakonia, featuring a live demonstration and an exhibition of Greek family heirlooms. Professor Sharon Gerstel, Director of the UCLA SNF Hellenic Centre, will lead the discussion alongside Mrs. Chrysoula Stamatopoulou, a master weaver from Geraki.

Professor Sharon Gerstel, the George P. Kolovos Family Centennial Term Chair in Hellenic Studies, will provide an in-depth look at the Hellenic Centre’s work in both Los Angeles and Greece. A key highlight will be the Centre’s multi-year project on the weaving traditions of Geraki, a village renowned for its artisanship dating back to antiquity. This initiative, funded by Gefyra, will soon culminate in a major exhibition at the Benaki Museum, accompanied by a detailed bilingual catalogue titled Weaving Dreams: Kilims from Geraki, Laconia.

Mrs. Stamatopoulou will share insights into the village’s ancient weaving techniques that continue to thrive today. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to witness her demonstrate her skills on the vertical loom, showcasing how this historic craft is passed down through generations.

In addition to the weaving demonstration, the event will feature an exhibition of heirlooms organised by the Greek Heritage Society (GHS). The GHS is seeking contributions from the Greek community in Los Angeles, particularly woven items and other handicrafts such as embroidery, to be displayed at the event. Bessie Karras-Lazaris, President of the Greek Heritage Society, encourages interested members to submit their family treasures for inclusion in the exhibition, where they can share the stories behind these artefacts.

This immersive event, co-sponsored by Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral and under the auspices of the Consulate General of Greece in Los Angeles, promises a rich blend of tradition, history, and culture. With hands-on demonstrations and an exhibition of works passed down through generations, attendees will experience a unique celebration of Greek heritage. The Weaving Dreams catalogue will be available for purchase soon through the UCLA Hellenic Centre.

Carved in Wood, Etched in Memory: The Symbols of Survival in Karitsa

 "The saw and the plough are parts of Diamantis’ soul, symbols of the times that shaped him."

Diamantis Rozaklis, now 80, sits on his porch in Goodwood, Adelaide, gazing thoughtfully at the two small models he crafted with his own hands: a saw for cutting wood and a plow. These aren’t just handmade decorations to brighten his porch. They are pieces of his soul, living symbols of a different time, the years he spent in his beloved Karitsa, a small village nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnon.

At just ten years of age, Diamantis would follow his father up into the forested mountains above the village. There, away from the eyes of the authorities, they cut fir trees illegally. It was dangerous work that filled young Diamantis with fear but also with a sense of pride, knowing that this hard work was necessary for his family’s survival. His heart tightens at the memory of those tough times, but at the same time, he draws strength from the experiences that shaped him into the man he became.

It wasn’t just cutting wood that marked his childhood. In the fields at Anaskela, they ploughed the earth with the plough, sowing wheat for the year’s bread. There, in the open tilling fields of the village, Diamantis learned the value of hard work, patience, and working hand in hand with nature.

Though he has lived in Australia for 62 years, Diamantis’ spirit remains deeply rooted in Karitsa, among its olive trees, fields, and stone-built homes. The saw and plough models stand like sentinels on his porch, and every time he looks at them, his mind travels back in time, returning to those years of simplicity, hard work, and innocence. These small symbols keep the memory of his village alive, the memory of the land and the people who shaped him. It is his legacy, carved in wood, etched deep in his memory and heart.

Pan-Laconian Society’s Vangelis Katsambis Awarded Life Membership by Adelaide Comets FC

"What an honour! I am forever grateful and proud to have been awarded life membership at this great club!"
– Vangelis Katsambis

In recognition of his outstanding contribution and dedication, Vangelis Katsambis, a member of the executive committee of the Pan-Laconian Society, was awarded life membership at the Adelaide Comets Football Club’s presentation night on Friday, 20 September.

Vangelis was one of seven individuals honoured by the club for their exemplary service over the years. Their decade of commitment to the Comets was celebrated by both club members and officials in a night that highlighted the club’s deep appreciation for its most dedicated supporters.

Expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, Vangelis said: “What an honour! I am forever grateful and proud to have been awarded life membership at this great club! Thank you to the president, Jim Tsouvalas, and the whole board for the honour. Words can’t express how grateful I am!”

The life membership is a testament to Vangelis’s contribution in the club’s growth and success within the Football Federation of South Australia. His unwavering dedication, tireless volunteer work, and leadership over the past ten years have contributed in shaping the Comets’ rise in South Australian football.

 

 

Ancient Greek Musical Instruments Lecture to be Presented at Odyssey Festival 2024

"A rare glimpse into the musical heritage of ancient Greece, offering an enriching cultural experience."

Panagiotis G Mavraidis, manager and operator of Adelaide Greek language radio station Radio Melodia, is set to deliver an insightful lecture titled "Ancient Greek Musical Instruments" on 6th October at 2 pm as part of the Odyssey Festival 2024. Set to be held at Olympic Hall in Adelaide, the event will offer a fascinating journey through the history of musical innovation in ancient Greece.

The lecture, presented in both Greek and English (with subtitles in selected parts), will explore the evolution of musical instruments from the dawn of human civilisation. Mavraidis will introduce a range of early instruments, starting with primitive xylophones and wind instruments, and culminating in the remarkable Hydraulis — a water organ invented in the 3rd century BC by Ctesibius, considered the precursor to the modern church organ.

Those attending will have the rare opportunity to listen to music composed over 5,000 years ago, while Mavraidis will explain how these ancient instruments were crafted and played by musicians of the time.

"This lecture is an opportunity to delve into the origins of music itself," said Mavraidis. "We'll explore the incredible ingenuity of ancient cultures in creating instruments that have influenced music for millennia."

In addition to the lecture, a special exhibition will display reconstructed ancient musical instruments, meticulously crafted as replicas of museum exhibits. This exhibition will be available for one day only.
                                     
The event promises to be a highlight of the Odyssey Festival 2024, offering a rare glimpse into the musical heritage of ancient Greece and providing a truly enriching cultural experience.

Vale Georgios Profiris (1934-2024)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Georgios Profiris, who peacefully passed away on 21st August 2024, at the age of 89.

Born in the village of Agios Andreas in Lakonia on 12th December 1934, Georgios carried the rich traditions and culture of his homeland with him to Australia, where he became a respected member of the community.

As a long-standing member of the Pan-Laconian Society of South Australia and a former member of the executive committee, Georgios played a vital role in preserving and promoting the Laconian heritage. His unwavering dedication to the Society reflected his deep love for Lakonia and its people.

Georgios was a devoted husband to Irini, a loving father and father-in-law to Yiannis and Marina, Anastasios, and Panagiotis and Elisabeth. He was also a cherished Pappou to Giorgio, Renae, Alexander, and Sophie, who were a source of immense pride and joy.

His legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the memories he created with his loved ones. Georgios will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him, both in Australia and Greece. His life was a testament to the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of Lakonia.

The funeral service will be conducted on Wednesday, 4 September, at 12:00 noon at the St George Greek Orthodox Church in Rose Street, Thebarton, followed by burial at Centennial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers a memorial donation to the Hospital Research Foundation (Dementia) would be appreciated by the family and may be made online at: hospitalresearch.org.au

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family during this difficult time.

May his memory be eternal.

Happy 89th Birthday to Katerina Mitris, an Amazing and Beautiful Lady

"Chronia polla, Happy 89th birthday! Wishing you continued happiness, good health, and many more years of family love."

Today, we celebrate the 89th birthday of an incredible woman, the matriarch of the Mitris Family, Katerina Mitris, nee Vlachos. With three children, seven grandchildren, and seventeen great-grandchildren, her life is a testament to strength, resilience, and unwavering love for her family.

Born and raised in the historic village of Geraki, Lakonia, Katerina’s childhood was marked by the hardships of war. Despite not having the opportunity to attend school, she learned to read, write, and count, demonstrating a remarkable spirit and determination.

At the age of 18, she married Nikos Mitris, and together they embarked on a journey to Australia in search of a better life. Arriving in Melbourne in 1954, they faced the challenges of a new language and unfamiliar customs.

With unwavering determination, Katerina worked tirelessly alongside her husband, taking on various jobs to support their growing family. Despite the hardships, she never lost sight of her dreams and the values she held dear.

Nikos, a pillar of the Lakonian community, became known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to helping others. He established a business that provided employment opportunities fruit picking and market gardening in the Adelaide Hills for many Lakonian immigrants, particularly women who struggled to find work in traditional factories. Later, he became a familiar and welcoming presence within Adelaide's Greek community through his management of several kafeneia.

Katerina stood by her husband's side, offering unwavering support and encouragement. He affectionately called her "the steering wheel of the family," recognising her strength and unwavering commitment to their shared goals.

Together, they raised three wonderful children: Stella, George, and Jim. Katerina attributes her success in life to hard work, her supportive husband, and the love and dedication she has for her family.

In her spare time, Katerina cherishes moments spent with her extended family and actively participates in the activities of the Pan-Laconian Society. She remains deeply connected to her roots, having returned to her homeland nine times, as she believes that "one always carries a piece of their birthplace within them."

Katerina Mitris is an inspiration to us all. Her life is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. As she celebrates her 89th birthday, we extend our heartfelt wishes for continued happiness, good health, and many more years surrounded by the love of her cherished family.

Στεφάνι και επικήδειος ομιλία στην κηδεία της Σραυρούλας Πάντου

«Καλό παράδεισο, Σταυρούλα, αιωνία σου η μνήμη!»

Σήμερα, ο Παλλακωνικός Σύλλογος τίμησε τη μνήμη της Σταυρούλας Πάντου, ενός από τα ιδρυτικά του μέλη το μακρινό 1966, στην κηδεία της που τελέστηκε στον Ιερό Ναό του Αγίου Γεωργίου στο Θέμπαρτον της Αδελαΐδας.

Εκ μέρους του συλλόγου, ο Στέλιος Χαγιάς κατάθεσε στεφάνι και εκφώνησε έναν επικήδειο λόγο, εκφράζοντας τα βαθιά συλλυπητήρια για την απώλεια ενός αγαπημένου μέλους.

Επικήδειος Λόγος

Εκ μέρους του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου, προσφέρω αυτά τα λουλούδια. Σήμερα λέμε το τελευταίο αντίο στην αγαπημένη μας Σταυρούλα.

Η Σταυρούλα, μαζί με τον σύζυγό της, Ευάγγελο, και πολλούς άλλους πρώτους μετανάστες από τη Λακωνία, ήταν ιδρυτικά μέλη του Παλλακωνικού Συλλόγου Νότιας Αυστραλίας το 1966. Στα πρώτα χρόνια, η Σταυρούλα ήταν μεγάλη υποστήριξη για τον Ευάγγελο, που υπηρέτησε και ως πρόεδρος για κάποιο διάστημα. Εκείνη την εποχή, η Σταυρούλα είχε μεγάλο ενδιαφέρον για την οργάνωση της χορευτικής ομάδας.

Μετά τον θάνατο του Ευάγγελου το 2008, η Σταυρούλα συνέχισε να συμμετέχει ενεργά στις δραστηριότητες του συλλόγου, ακόμα και στα τελευταία της χρόνια, παρά την επιδείνωση της υγείας της. Όλοι θυμόμαστε τα εμπνευσμένα ποιήματά της που μοιραζόταν με μας στις εκδηλώσεις του συλλόγου. Ήταν πραγματικά αγαπητή και σεβαστή από όλους, μια θρύλος του συλλόγου μας. Μέχρι την τελευταία της πνοή, ετοιμαζόταν να έρθει στον σύλλογο και να περάσει χρόνο με τους συμπατριώτες της.

Αλλά, δυστυχώς, μία από τις μεγάλες μας κυρίες σταμάτησε πλέον να αναπνέει.

Αντίο αγαπημένη μας Σταυρούλα. Ευχόμαστε το χώμα που θα σε σκεπάσει να είναι ελαφρύ. Ο Θεός να σε αναπαύσει και να σε ξεκουράσει. Να δώσει κουράγιο και υπομονή στην οικογένειά σου και σε όλους τους συγγενείς και φίλους.

Καλό παράδεισο, Σταυρούλα, αιωνία σου η μνήμη.

A Huge Congratulations to Eleni Mavraidi!

A well-deserved win! Eleni Mavraidi (6th from right) is all smiles after being named a joint recipient of the 2024 Tormore Prize. Congratulations, Eleni, on this fantastic accomplishment!

We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Eleni Mavraidi, daughter of our fellow club members Panagiotis Mavraidis and Chrysoula Melissinakis, and granddaughter of untiring volunteers George and Eleni Mavraidis! Young Eleni has been named joint recipient of the prestigious 2024 Tormore Prize at the University of Adelaide.

This remarkable prize, awarded annually since 1921, recognizes the exceptional academic performance of a female student in a Level I English Literature course. For over a century, the Tormore Prize has honoured students who demonstrate exceptional talent and dedication in their literary studies.

Eleni's achievement in her first year at the University of Adelaide is truly commendable. Being named the Tormore Prize recipient is a testament to her hard work, passion for literature, and exceptional academic ability. The entire club joins the Mavraidi and Melissinakis families in celebrating Eleni's well-deserved success.

We have no doubt that Eleni will continue to excel in her studies and achieve great things in the future. Congratulations once again, Eleni!

Vale Stavroula Pandos (1924-2024)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Stavroula Pandos (née Laganas), who passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning, surrounded by her family in Adelaide, South Australia, at the age of 99.

Stavroula was born in the picturesque village of Kastania (present-day Kastoreio) at the base of the legendary Taygetos Mountains in 1924, though her exact birthdate remains a charming mystery. She chose to celebrate her birthday on September 14, aligning it with her nameday, a delightful tradition that added to her unique character.

A revered figure within the Pan-Laconian Society, Stavroula was a popular poet and one of the cherished founding members. She embodied the spirit and essence of Lakonia, captivating audiences with her epic poems filled with wisdom, wit, and inspiration. Her commitment to the Pan-Laconian Society of SA "Leonidas" was unwavering, a legacy continued from her beloved husband, Evangelos, who served as president and dedicated many years to the Society before his passing in 2008.

Despite facing health challenges in her later years, Stavroula's passion for the Society and her cultural heritage never waned. She found her greatest joy in her "human wealth" — her expanding and loving family. She leaves behind three children, eight grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, each a testament to her enduring legacy.

The funeral service will be conducted on Thursday, 30 May, at 1:30 pm at the St George Greek Orthodox Church in Rose Street, Thebarton, followed by burial at Centennial Park Cemetery and the coffee of consolation at Peter Elberg Funeral Home, 280 Grange Rd, Flinders Park.

Stavroula will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched with her poetry and vibrant spirit. Her life was a testament to the strength, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of Lakonia.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family during this difficult time.

May her memory be eternal.

Celebrating Motherhood Through Art in Geraki

By Evgenia Lamprou

Secretary  Women's and Young Ladies' Philanthropic Association of Geraki

 

Art Bows to Motherhood

Photographs: Christos Balampanos

The Geraki Women's and Young Ladies' Philanthropic Association hosted a unique Mother's Day event on Sunday, May 12th, 2024, at 7:00 pm, at the Parish Centre next to the village's main church dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

This special event titled "Art Bows to Motherhood" explored how motherhood has inspired artistic expression throughout history.

The evening highlighted the multifaceted and significant role mothers play in families and society. Through a variety of art forms, the members of the Association aimed to bring pleasure and beauty to the audience.

Evgenia Lamprou, Eleni Davara, Nella Konstantiou, Kanela Antoniou, Georgia Gianne, and Antigoni Pilioura presented poems, prose, and art pieces, showcasing how different mediums have depicted motherhood. These works not only celebrated motherhood as a natural wonder but also emphasised its role in ensuring the continuation of life and fostering strong bonds between generations.

The event was enriched by the beautiful music of brothers Spyros and Ilias Kappakos. Adding a delightful surprise, Association members Chrysafia Sine, Susanna Gkini, and Vassiliki Sovolou stole the show with their impressive singing voices.

A special highlight of the evening was the honouring of Alexandra Antona, a remarkable 102-year-old Gerakitissa. An independent woman, a wonderful mother, and a talented painter, Alexandra continues to create art and inspires others with her youthful spirit. The presentation of her artwork moved the audience, showcasing the power of her gift and her enduring zest for life. Alexandra expressed her gratitude for the recognition and emphasised the importance of staying active and contributing to society throughout one's life. As she often says, "I love people, I love life, that's why I live!" 

 

The Geraki Women's and Young Ladies' Philanthropic Association extends its gratitude to:

•  Honoree Alexandra Antona for attending the event and donating her painting titled "Mother and Child"
• Thanasis Grevenitis, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Evrotas
• Municipal councilor Niki Theodorakakou
• Argyroula Gianne, member of the local committee of the community of Geraki
• The boards of directors of all village associations for their presence
• Everyone who attended the event
• Evangelia Kontogeorgou, Rena Skoularina, Niki Theodorakakou for their contributions
• Christos Balampanos for capturing the event through photos and video.

The evening concluded with a delightful offering of homemade sweets prepared by the Association members 
The Geraki Women's and Young Ladies' Philanthropic Association wishes all mothers a very Happy Mother's Day!

On Behalf of the Board of Directors
Evgenia Lamprou, Secretary

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