Greek Film in the Spotlight

I recently read about Greek film nights being held monthly sponsored by the Greek Press and Communication Office of New York. I am not so familiar with the genre of modern Greek film, but I thought it was an innovative switch up from the common Greek club nights that might be worth promoting in more Greek communities if you can not make it to New York. The events include Greek food and a showing of a modern Greek film and are simply another way to get your whole parea together to spend some time. For more information on the film nights and other Greek film events check out the links below.

Greek Film Nights New York

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Greek Press and Communication Director, promoting the image of Greece

Los Angeles Greek Film Festival
- CelebrateGreece.com coverage

New York Greek Film Festival

Interview with Constantine Maroulis

Greek Community a strong supporter of one of its own

One of my favorite things about the Greek community is that it loves to celebrate the success of fellow Greeks. I met Constantine Maroulis, American Idol Season 4 finalist and star of the upcoming Broadway show Rock of Ages, last year at an event that is based on that very quality, the Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund Ball, which annually awards the success of Greek-American students and professionals. Maroulis was very outgoing and happy to meet and get pictures with everyone. It was clear he was just as proud to enjoy the evening with fellow Greeks as I was. And because of his relatable, down-to earth nature, I was not surprised when he agreed to speak with me about his current endeavors and the role his culture has played in his success. Through our conversation, Maroulis conveys such an appreciation for the Greek community and how rewarding its support as well as being able to give back to it has been. To listen to the full interview click below.

Listen here

For more information on Maroulis in Rock of Ages, check out www.rockofagesmusical.com and find out how to get tickets for the show with previews beginning tomorrow and opening night on April 7.
Also check out Maroulis' official website, www.constantinemaroulis.com, coming soon.

Continuing the Celebration

Little over a week until Greek Independence Day, I already have caught myself humming the Greek National anthem in anticipation. Although it may seem a little extreme to some, my pride in my culture overwhelms me even more than usual every 25th of March. Religiously, it is significant, as the Annunciation of the Theotokos, the day that the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bear a child. However, it is an extremely significant day in history as well that really exemplifies the heart and dedication Greeks are known to have for their culture and country.

In 1821, when the Greeks already had been oppressed by Ottoman rule for hundreds of years, Bishop Germanos of Patras marked the day of March 25th, which would come to be celebrated for so many years to come. He raised the Greek flag at the Monastery of Agia Lavra in Peloponnese declaring one more revolution against the Turks. People of Greece shouted “Eleftheria H Thanatos” (Freedom or Death) and went on to fight for eight years until finally the Treaty of Adrianople recognized Greek independence.
Independence was a monumental accomplishment for Greece. It is so impressive to me how the Greeks managed to maintain their cultural identity despite so many years of oppression, and I believe it is that astonishment that makes many Greeks also feel thankful every year for our ancestors’ determination and faith. I think that pride in our culture is something that defines us as Greeks and why March 25th will never cease to be a great day of celebration.

Though almost all Greek Orthodox churches hold some sort of celebration to commemorate the day, there are some which are widely-recognized, large celebrations put on for Greek Independence Day that are also exciting to attend. Some of these include the Greek Independence Day Parade on 5th in New York City, Parade in Greektown Chicago, Parade in Greektown Detroit, the Mid-Atlantic Parade in Maryland and of course too many to list in Greece. Be prepared and enjoy a full celebration of the day!

Next best thing in the U.S.

Flying across the Atlantic isn’t always an option; however, there are some great places in the states where you can get a taste of Greece. Greek towns are exactly what they sound like, a town populated by Greek people and Greek establishments. If you have never visited one, then I highly recommend it. Even if you have visited one, I suggest traveling to another because although all are filled with Greek stores, restaurants, nightlife and other general establishments, each Greek town is a different experience and has its own character benefiting and building upon the unique charm of its surrounding city. Below are some of my favorites.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Tarpon Spring’s Greektown is a great vacation spot. Located close to Tampa, the Greek atmosphere and beautiful Florida weather are a perfect mix. It is a perfect place to stroll through on a nice day offering a variety of shops with Greek memorabilia and waterside restaurants.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s Greektown is like a smaller version of the city with a strong Greek influence. This town has a great variety of restaurants as well as an exciting Greek nightlife. There are also many groceries and other common stores represented in Greek within the town that establish it independent from surrounding areas and really heighten the experience.

http://www.greektownchicago.org/

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit’s Greektown is centered in a downtown area with the large Greektown Casino as its main attraction. The luxurious casino is in the heart of Greektown offering gaming, a hotel, dining and nightlife with a Greek influence. Also, once outside the casino, you can take your pick from a string of authentic Greek Restaurants.

http://www.greektowncasino.com/

Astoria Queens, New York City

Astoria has one of the largest populations of Greeks outside of Greece, and there influence is clearly represented in combination with the area’s New York feel. A plethora of restaurants, bakeries, taverns, cafes and Greek Orthodox Churches shape the town which is full of diversity and culture.

UrbanGreek Post Independence Day Party

Beautiful Beaches of Greece's Best Party Island

Beaches, sun and exotic vacations are on the mind as Spring Break season is quickly approaching. For some that may mean a trip to the typical Florida or Mexico, but for me Greece is always the ultimate getaway. However, just like the United States, Greece has its own vacation hotspots, and for the beautiful and wild escape Spring Break is known for the island Mykonos is the best place to be. It has a reputation for a range of beautiful beaches with an outrageous nightlife perfect for a week-long adventure. Check out the map below to learn about the island's beaches and what they have to offer!

Useful tools to Brush up on your Greek

Growing up, I have always spoken some Greek, but fluency is still a goal I am striving for. I wish I had been pushed to speak it more when I was little because teaching myself Greek amongst having to work and go to school has been quite a challenge. Though, the fact that many of my friends have been faced with the same situation has made it easier because we practice speaking Greek together and push one another to keep up with it. Through all of our experiences with trying to learn Greek, we have found there are some pretty useful tools other than our fluent family members, old books from Greek school and one another. I found the following tools to be the most useful from what my friends and I have tried.

Rosetta Stone

Although it can be very expensive depending where you get it from, I found Rosetta Stone’s Modern Greek program extremely useful. It takes a different approach to learning the language by straying away from the typical college language set up and teaching the language similar to how you learn to speak your first language as a child. It begins matching simple words by sound to their written and picture form. This format continues on progressing into sentences and phrases and covers a wide range of vocabulary. If you are passionate about becoming fluent in Greek, I highly suggest this program as a helpful tool in your learning process.

Pimsleur Method

This CD set is very inexpensive and convenient since it can be played in the car or uploaded to an ipod. It teaches in 30-minute lessons that begin with the presentation of a conversation completely in Greek, then that conversation is broken down so that you may learn the vocabulary and how and why it is used in the initial conversation. It provides over 2,500 words to learn and is centered on more essential conversation to those who may often interact with fluent speakers or may be traveling to Greece. This method is a great place to start especially if you are on a budget.

Some other programs to check out are In Flight Greek, Just Listen 'N Learn Greek and Before You Know It, Greek.

Greek-American Entrepreneur

Greek-American Youth give culture a modern style

Many Americans still carry on pride in the culture from which their family originated, and that value plays a very large part in the lifestyle of many Greek Americans. Greek tradition has maintained a strong presence in America as it has been passed down through generations who have proudly grown to identify themselves as Greek-Americans. However, Greek-American youth have not only embraced Greek culture through traditional aspects but adapted it into current modern culture. A prime example of that evolution is Urban Greek Clothing, a clothing company started by Greek-American youth for Greek-American youth.

The brand emerged about three years ago and has come a long way since its humble beginnings as an idea proposed casually over coffee by current owners Theo Constantinou, 23, and Yianni Karvouunides, 21. The two Ohio natives realized their longtime aspirations for running a business together with the idea of a Greek-influenced brand, something they both identified with, and thus, Urban Greek Clothing was born.

“We wanted to create something trendy that would appeal to Greeks as a way to represent the culture every day,” Constantinou said.

After developing their initial designs, the young entrepreneurs went on to pitch the line as a combination of “the old Greek tradition with the new urban American lifestyle” and continued to work towards their goal of making Urban Greek Clothing the international brand it is today. Constantinou and Karvounides sought out distributors to support their brand and soon built relationships with many Greek establishments including Hellenic Apparel that now organizes all of their west coast sales. Their efforts also led them to become sponsors of popular Greek-American music artists of Spade Entertainment and BiggBoss Music Group including renowned Greek hip-hop talent Efiologos.
Recognizing Urban Greek Clothing's growing popularity, a New York promotions company contacted Constantinou with the idea of an official launch party. The idea not only materialized as a successful, Greek-inspired event thrown at Philadelphia's Vango Lounge, but inspired Constantinou and Karvounides to expand their brand. They created Urban Greek Entertainment, through which they now bring that same Greek-club atmosphere to Ohio.
With the passion and determination of its owners, Urban Greek Clothing and Entertainment is still going strong today despite both of its owners still being in college.

“Though it is not what I plan to do for a career, I am thankful to have it on the side and want to continue with it,” Constantinou said. “It has taught me more about business than I ever learned in a classroom, and I have met so many people I would have never known otherwise.”

Urban Greek will soon release its spring line and will sponsor a Greek night in Columbus in April. Check back for updates and visit http://www.urbangreekclothing.com/ for more information on the company and its apparel. Preview some of last season's designs below.

Easy Recipes for Lent

Lent is quickly approaching. This year Clean Monday falls on March 2nd, the kick off day for seven weeks of fasting (until Easter). Now living on my own, I have been working to remain responsible about upholding my family’s traditions. Not to mention without Ma ma’s cooking, I have been avidly working to not only learn to cook but be able to recreate my Yia Yia’s classic recipes with all the homemade tastes they are known for (quite a feat). Throughout my cooking adventures when deciding what recipe I should explore next, I have found holiday-related dishes to be a good starting point. Lent especially has a lot of restrictions, so dishes tend to be simpler. Here are a few dishes to try out during this lent season.

Tomato Salad

Ingredients:

Tomatoes
Red onion
Cucumber
Vinegar
Sea salt
Extra virgin olive oil
Orégano

Core the tomatoes and cut them lengthwise into 4 to 6 wedges. You do not want to slice them to thin because they make the bulk of your salad. Slice your onion and cucumber and add them with the tomato. Sprinkle on salt and oregano. Drizzle on vinegar and olive oil and toss together. The portions are simple to judge per serving and easily vary to preference. This dish also tastes great with fresh bread.

Lemon over Boiled Shrimp

Ingredients:

2 pounds of shrimp
Juice of one lemon
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Parsley, sea salt, pepper to taste

Remove the shells and veins from the shrimp. Add shrimp to boiling water. Boil for 5 minutes. Drain from water. In a separate bowl blend the olive oil, lemon, parsley, sea salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the shrimp.

Simple Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

½ lb. small lentils
1 lb tomatoes, pureed
4 cups water
1 onion, minced
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
Sea salt, pepper to taste

Mix the water, tomatoes, bay leaves, onion and garlic and bring to a boil. Add the lentils and olive oil and simmer covered for one hour, or until lentils are done. Take off heat. Remove bay leaves from soup and add salt and pepper. Serve with fresh bread.

Recap of Sweetheart's Ball 2009

It was another great weekend in Columbus for Sweethearts. Here are some pictures for all of you who missed out. Can't wait until next year!

Valentine's Day with a Greek Touch

Whenever I hear anyone question the origin of something, I consistently and predictably answer with some sort of explanation attributing the Greek culture, and Valentine’s Day is no different. Though Valentine’s Day is a widely celebrated American holiday, its origins are rooted in Greek mythology. The chubby cherub whom Hallmark now centers its Valentine’s displays around was once known to the Greeks as the god of love, Eros. Eros was said to have been born out of Chaos and became known as the son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Though the god was known to spark love amongst both gods and humans, Eros’s legend deals much with his own love affair with a human once forbidden by his mother but which finally was permitted by Zeus, father of the gods and ruler of mankind.
Though Valentine’s Day is not as much of a popular or commercialized holiday in Greece, some Greeks still acknowledge its original importance as a day to recognize and commemorate the holy marriage between Zeus and his wife, Hera. They simply celebrate with enjoyment of their appreciation of great love and romance.
Because the significance of Valentine’s Day in both American and Greece is so similar, I appreciate it being one of the less conflictive and more carefree holidays to celebrate for Greek Americans. After all, the day’s overall purpose is a positive one that luckily translates amongst most cultures, and it is that fact which makes it easy to put a proud cultural touch on your Valentine’s Day festivities (especially helpful to know if you happen to be dating a Greek girl). One of my favorite Greek merchandise websites, Greekshops.com, provides great examples of cute Valentine’s Day gifts with a Greek touch. To take a look at these, go to http://www.greekshops.com/Gifts/Romantic_Gifts.html?sdi=186.

Ευτυχισμενη μερα του Αγιου Βαλεντινου!

A Website Worth Traveling to

www.Greeka.com

Every Greek-American deserves to see his/her family’s homeland, and I for one put much planning and anticipation into my first trip to ensure the experience of my dreams. Though there are many Greek sites related to travel, this is one I think takes it a step above the rest by displaying the country as much more than just another vacation getaway. It is more than just a travel site. It supplies thorough insight on both the mainland and all of the Greek islands so that you can not only plan a trip to anywhere Greece but educate yourself on every area and that region’s atmosphere, history, traditions and current opportunities. However, Greeka.com supplies just as in depth information about the travel and touring options in Greece to help users plan, customize and prepare for every step of their visit. On top of that, the site offers general cultural information including recipes, current news links and job and real estate opportunities. You can also become a member of the site to gain access to other users’ reviews on places to stay, activities to do and tips for traveling, as well as to upload your own photos of Greece. Though this may seem like somewhat of a sales pitch, it is only because this site’s detailed variety of information is really that impressive. But besides all its data, if for no other reason, checking out the site is worth it just to see its collection of pictures cataloging what seems like every gorgeous angle of Greece. Greeka.com’s large display of high-quality, scenic photos will take your breath away, or if you’re like me, simply jumpstart the planning for your next trip.

Other Blogs to Check Out

Greek Food http://greekgourmand.blogspot.com/

Though there are many blogs about Greek food, this is one of my favorites. Sam Sotiropoulos does not only share a variety of classic, salivating Greek recipes, but also gives insight in to the history and traditions behind the food. What sets his blog apart from the rest is his explanation of what from his daily life inspired him to share each recipe. This often includes an amusing or enlightening story. Either way, I find his commentary to be reminiscent of how many Greeks in my community speak about life and food. Overall, Sam’s passion for Greek food is clear and it is that ingredient that takes his blog steps above an online recipe book. I highly suggest checking it out for great recipes and an enjoyable read.

Journey to Greece http://journey2greece.blogspot.com/

This blog was created to document the travels of the Greek-American students who participate in the annual Journey to Greece program. If you are not familiar, the Journey to Greece is a study abroad program sponsored by the AHEPA Educational Foundation. The program is specifically designed for Greek-American youth to introduce them to their Hellenic heritage, customs and traditions through college courses and sightseeing around the country. The blog gives readers a taste of what it is like to travel in Greece and some options to consider when planning on visiting the country. It is a useful site for Greek-American youth because it is linked to various related organizations and updates on other opportunities. To become more familiar with the Journey to Greece program and other valuable opportunities, take a look at this blog.

64th Annual Sweetheart’s Ball

It is time again for one of the biggest Greek dances of the year. Organized by The Ohio State University’s Orthodox nonprofit student organization, Sigma Epsilon Phi, the Sweetheart’s ball attracts Greek/Orthodox youth from across the Midwest. This year the ball will be held this Saturday Feb. 7 at the Hyatt Regency Columbus from 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. in the Union Ballroom, hors d’ oeuvres at 8:30 p.m. Pre-sale tickets for the dance are $25 dollars, and tickets at the door will be $30 dollars. The Stigma Band and singer Agapi will be performing a variety of traditional Greek dance songs, and for the first time ever there will be a performance by professional belly dancers. Tasty appetizers and several bars will also be available to enjoy. This is a huge event worth traveling for, so get your tickets now and show up dressed to impress ready to socialize, dance and maybe even find a sweetheart! You can buy tickets online at:
http://sigmaepsilonphi.org.ohio-state.edu/Sigma_Epsilon_Phi/Sweethearts.html.

Following tradition, there will also be a pre-party the night before. This year the Brewery District’s CBR Bar at 503 South Front St. will be hosting the party to help start the weekend off right. Come hear Urban Greek’s DJ T&S play your favorite Modern and Classic Greek dance music with an opening hiphop set by DJ Giovanny. You must be 18+ to enter. There will be a five dollar cover for those 21+, and a $10 dollar cover for those 18+. Doors open at 10 p.m.
I strongly encourage you to attend and bring friends. Everyone is welcome, Greek or not. It is a great weekend-long event to experience, and one that I never miss. Hope to see you there!

Thanos Petrelis North American Tour 2009

Thanos Petrelis, platinum selling artist known for his powerful voice and Modern Laika pop style, is currently touring with many stops across the United States. Though sales of his four albums he has released have brought him much fame, Petrelis sparked his career performing in a variety of Greek clubs and is wonderful live. If you have never been to a concert highlighting a Greek artist, I highly suggest attending. It is a great party and fun way to socialize with Greek-Americans from across the nation. For more information check the site below.

http://www.petrelisamericantour.com/

Greek Headliner- George Kokinis

The new General Manager of the Cleveland Browns is Greek and has his work cut out for him! See article below.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3859833

NEW MUSIC- Marianta Pieridi

Famous Greek singer of Cyprus, Marianta Pieridi, who is known for her success in the Eurovision Song Contest and now renowned hits, “Meine Dipla Mou (Μείνε δίπλα μου – Stay at my side) and “Dj,” released her latest CD at the end of this past December. The CD is titled “Se Prokalo (ΣΕ ΠΡΟΚΑΛΩ – I Dare)” and is the artist’s sixth album. Nine tracks are featured on the new album including her new single “Milia Makria (ΜΙΛΙΑ ΜΑΚΡΙΑ – Miles Away).” The singer is commonly reviewed as one of Greece’s most scandalous artists, and her new album is classic Pieridi, strong, passionate and seductive. Many other acclaimed artists contributed to the making of Pieridi’s new album including Poseidon Yannopoulos on the new song “Filaki (ΦΥΛΑΚΗ - Prison).” Some other artists who are featured on the album include, Tassos Vougiatzis, Ageliki Makrinioti and Kostas Sengis.
Pieridi is one of my favorite Greek artists for her upbeat nature. She produces the kind of music that pumps you up and makes you want to dance. I often pull her up on my itunes while getting ready to go out or working out at the gym and definitely suggest a listen whether you understand Greek or not.
Listen to Pieridi’s headlining single from her new album below.




Tracklist:
1.ΣΕ ΠΡΟΚΑΛΩ
2.ΦΥΛΑΚΗ
3.ΜΙΛΙΑ ΜΑΚΡΙΑ
4.ΧΑΝΟΜΑΙ
5.ΣΤΗΝ ΥΓΕΙΑ ΣΟΥ
6.ΧΩΡΙΣ ΥΠΕΡΒΟΛΗ
7.ΜΙΑ ΖΕΣΤΗ ΜΙΑ ΚΡΥΟ
8.ΕΡΩΤΑ ΜΟΥ
9.ΔΥΟ ΤΡΕΙΣ ΜΕΡΕΣ ΤΟ ΠΟΛΥ

Pieridi also recently released a separate CD of a remix of her previously released single named “Tha doso resta (Θα Δώσω Ρέστα – I’ll give Change).” Typical of Pieridi’s music, the single has a strong Greek dance beat and powerful lyrics. The song entered the Greek Top 50 Singles Chart at number four and has remained on the top 50 chart since its release with a peak position at number three.
Below is the video of Pieridi’s original version of the single.

Simple Taste of Greece

Cooking is a huge part of the Greek culture, and for me there is no reason why the younger generation of Greek-Americans should not keep it up. Here are a couple recipes I recently tried. Both versions of the classic dishes are simplified down from how Yia Yia would have made them but a great way to get a taste of home and keep up your cooking skills when you’re tight on time and money.

Soupa Avgolemono

Ingredients:

One can of chicken broth
½ can of water (using chicken broth can)
½ cup orzo
1 egg
Lemon juice as preferred
Pepper

Bring chicken broth and water to a boil. Add orzo. Continue to boil until orzo is tender, about 8-10 minutes. Turn off burner.
In a separate bowl whip egg white until it peaks. Add egg yolk and lemon juice beating continuously until combined. So you do not curdle the egg, temper it with one cup broth adding the broth in a slow constant stream into the egg mixture while whisking. Return entire mixture into broth. Add pepper to taste. Makes 2 servings and great with fresh bread.

Calamaria

Ingriedients:

1 package frozen squid
1 8 once can tomato sauce
1 can water (use sauce can)
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp parsley
1 onion
2 tbsp. virgin olive oil
Garlic powder, pepper and salt to taste

Thaw and rinse off squid. Cut squid into rounds of about a half inch wide. Add the virgin olive oil and onions to pan on medium heat. Cook until onions are browned.
While onions are browning mix tomato sauce, water, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a separate pot. Bring to a boil and cover.
Add onions once browned and squid. Cover again and let boil for another 20-25 minutes until squid is tender. Great just with bread but can be served over rice pilaf for a traditional presentation, or orzo or pasta. Makes 2 servings.

Enjoy!