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Pan-Macedonian Association of US to Hold 57th National Convention in Boston
HCS—Executive officers of the Pan-Macedonian Association Inc USA welcome all compatriots to the 57th Annual National Convention at the Newton Marriott Hotel on July 2-6, 2003. Four days of varied events fill the convention schedule, beginning with an opening reception on Wednesday evening, July 2, a fashion show featuring Greek ethnic costumes and creations from modern designers on Thursday, a panel discussion Thursday afternoon on the political issues of the Balkans, a glendi, a Grand Banquet on Saturday evening, a wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of Alexander the Great, and a panegyric with live music on Sunday afternoon.
Among the dignitaries who will be participating or attending the convention are His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios of America, the Honorable George Savvaidis Ambassador of Greece to the United States and His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of Boston, and numerous prefects from Macedonia, the mayor of Thessaloniki, and Greek-American state senators and representatives from New England.
According to John Katsaros, the Chair of the Convention Organizing Committee, and Panos Spiliakos, Governor of the New England District, all events listed below are open to the public. For additional information about ticket prices and availability, call 718-963-2545 or 978-764-5161:
| Thursday, July 3, 2003 |
12-2:00 pm |
Luncheon and Fashion Show
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Featuring Greek traditional costumes and contemporary US designs by Taylorman Inc. & DBA Strada Shoes. Mary Papoutsy and Nina Gatzoulis will present the Greek costumes modeled by members of the Pan-Macedonian Youth organization. Tickets $35/person. Newton Marriott Hotel.
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| Thursday, July 3, 2003 |
15-15:30 pm |
Panel Discussion on Balkans issues
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"Geopolitical Issues and Challenges in the Balkans" presentation by former dean of Purdue University in Indiana, Dr. Van Coufoudakis, panel chair, and distinguished scholars, Dr. Bernd Fischer, "Albanian Nationalism and its Impact on the Region," Dr. Andre Gerolymatos, "The US and the Southeastern Flank of NATO: The American Intervention in the Balkans," Dr. Alexander Kyrou, "Washington's FYROM Policy: Reconsidering the Strategic Environment in the South Balkans," and Dr. Dean Lomis, "Macedonia Therefore, Is Greece—Indeed!" Admission free. Newton Marriott Hotel.
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| Thursday, July 3, 2003 |
8:00 pm-1:00 am |
"Macedonian Night" Glendi
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Mezethakia, dancing, and entertainment by the Macedonian Youth dance Troupes from across the country. Tickets $25/person. Newton Marriott Hotel
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| Saturday, July 5, 2003 |
6:30-7:30 pm |
Grand Banquet
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Reception, dinner. Black tie optional. Tickets $75/person. Newton Marriott Hotel.
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| Sunday, July 6, 2003 |
12:00 noon
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Wreath-laying Ceremony
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Officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of Boston at the Statue of Alexander the Great in Roslindale. Admission free.
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| Sunday, July 6, 2003 |
2:00-5:30 pm |
Picnic and Panegyri |
Food fair, including roasted lambs, live music and dancing. Admission free; food for sale. Location Greek Orthodox Metropolis grounds in Brookline, Massachusetts.
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For additional information about ticket prices and availability, call 718-963-2545 or 978-764-5161.
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But some experts are predicting heated discussions over the Greece-FYROM current issues, since the central topic of the convention will be the use of the name Macedonia by FYROM. Countering propaganda of the totalitarian regimes about the history of ancient Macedonia has been a key goal of the Pan-Macedonian Association of the US since its inception about 50 years ago. US members of the organization are concerned that the Greek government might put their principal cause—FYROM's name dispute—on the backburner in favor of promoting greater stability in the region. According to Panos Spiliakos, the District Governor of the association, the group is determined not to accept any agreement with FYROM that contains the name Macedonia or any derivative: "The name 'Macedonia' is part of our heritage and we will not give it to anyone."
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