THE GREEK AUSTRALIAN The oldest circulating Greek newspaper outside VEMA Greece AUGUST 2012 Tel. (02) 9559 7022 Fax: (02) 9559 7033 E-mail: [email protected] GROWING UP FAST AND FURIOUS What ‘brand’ is your child? PAGE 7/25 YOUNG GREEKS LOOK TO NEW OZ WORK VISAS ALL SAINTS GRAMMAR, NSW Senior School Greek Theatrical Production The Federal Government has begun negotiating with Greek authorities over a visa arrange- Students from All Saints Grammar, NSW, per- formed the well-known Greek theatrical ment that could help hundreds drama of Iakovos Kambanellis, The Courtyard of young Greeks fill labour of Miracles - Η Αυλή των Θαυμάτων. gaps in Australia. The new visa arrangements PAGE 19/37 would allow Greeks and Aus- tralians between 18 and 30 to work and study in each country for up to 12 months. There would be an annual limit on visas. It could also help fill in Australia's demand for graduates in occupations such as nursing, accounting and en- gineering. Immigration and Citizenship Minister, Chris Bowen, said it could take some time to imple- Immigration ment a reciprocal work and ho- and Citizenship liday arrangement agreeable to Minister both governments. Chris Bowen St Dionysios Church PAGE 19 37 receives facelift / The next time you travel to the Parish of St Dionysios, Central Mangrove, NSW, to venerate and pay respect to the much-loved saint of for- giveness, St Dionysios of Zakynthos, be pre- pared for a big surprise. PAGE 8/26

Ithaca Holy Cross Monastery (NSW) Odysseus’ native island is as appealing to trav- elers as his wanderings are sympolic to those celebrates St Irene Chrysovalantou seeking the meaning of life. PAGE 16/34 PAGE 20/38 AUGUST 2012 2/20 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

A 153 year old Icon of St Nicholas is donated to the Church of Sts Constantine and Helene (WA)

Steve Negroponte had donated a 153 British we had to leave Rhodes and go to years old icon of St Nicholas to the Church Italy as refugees. Here we found ourselves of Sts Constantine and Helene in Perth, worse off as the war had arrived on the WA. This beautiful icon has been framed mainland. My grandmother always be- and is located at the entrance of the lieved that St Nicholas protected her. Church on an icon stand. “In 1955 my grandmother passed the Below is a brief outline, prepared by Mr icon onto her eldest daughter Teresa Ne- Negroponte, informing us on how the icon groponte (my mother) who was likewise a came into his possession. very devout Christian. That year my uncle, “In 1922 my grandmother, Policarpina Antonio Cappadona, sponsored us to come Cappadona (nee Piccinini), lived with her to Australia. The icon came with us and al- family in Smyrna (Izmir, Turkey). My grand- ways held a very revered place in our father was a train driver employed by the home. Prior to my mother’s passing away British Colonial Railway Company that in 2004, she passed the icon onto me serviced the line from Smyrna to Aydin where it has been ever since. As my wife (Turkey) and Denizli (Turkey) in Anatolia. and I are getting on in years we thought it They survived the Great Fire in 1922 by best to retire St Nicholas from his many taking refuge in a Franciscan Church. After travels to a significant and rightful place - the fire, all Europeans who wanted to stay in a Greek Orthodox Church. were able to. “The icon has been painted by an un- “The newly installed Turkish Government known iconographer in Smyrna in 1859. settled them in whatever housing was left The icon of St Nicholas has been cared for after the fire which was previously occu- by our family from 1922 and now the Ne- pied by Greek or Armenian families; this is groponte family consigns the icon to the how the icon of St Nicholas came into my parish of Sts Constantine and Helene. May grandmother’s possession. it bring joy to your parishioners for many “Being a very devout Christian my grand- years to come”. mother felt responsible in taking care of the icon - in case it came into the wrong wish to take up Turkish citizenship were time the island was under Italian rule. It *** The Parish of Sts Constantine hands. After a few years all jobs held by asked to leave. As Italy was my grandpar- was on the island of Rhodes that I was and Helene would like to thank Mr Europeans were allocated to Turkish Na- ents’ country of origin, the Italian Govern- born. Negroponte for donating this beauti- tionals and the Europeans who did not ment allocated them to Rhodes as at that “In 1943 during the bombardment by the ful icon to our Church.

Airport gives incentives Athens International Airport (AIA) announced that it will offer incen- tives to airlines for the coming winter in a bid to bolster tourism traf- fic to Greece. These incentives will include a discount of up to 15 percent on airport charges for any companies that maintain the same number of flights as last year through the country’s main airstrip, as well as a subsidy of 5 to 15 euros per transfer passen- ger. The incentives concern the period from November 2012 to March 2013, AIA said, and are aimed at stemming the loss of airlines that have decided to take Athens off their flight routes due to the lo- cal airport’s high charges, as well as reduced traffic due to the eco- nomic crisis. AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 3/21 Editorial

The pitfalls of comparisons By Pantelis Boukalas

Making comparisons is a perfectly natural process. Whenever we see, taste or hear something new, we au- tomatically compare to a similar experience of the past in order to judge which is better. The contest, of course, is rigged before it begins be- cause the first criterion used in the comparison process is an ideal, something that has become the object of nostalgia. The same rules apply when comparing something that is “ours” with something that isn’t. However impartial we like to appear to be, the lead is already assigned before the process begins because sentiment inevitably prevails over any intellectual con- siderations. This happened recently with the comparisons be- tween the Opening Ceremony of the 2004 Athens Olympics and that of the London Games. After the opening ceremony, most Greeks were ini- tially reluctant to speak badly of an impressive event, but as the days have progressed, the comparisons have become livelier and more colorful, even though the two events are non-comparable: The Greek director had one goal in mind and the British director quite another. In short, they wanted to tell a different story. when comparing it to anything contemporary, that we on its past, responsible for our lack of self-knowledge Greek organizers felt compelled to draw attention to debase its present in order to give it an easy win based and self-confidence, for our resulting self-depreciation? the country’s ancient heritage, much like China did it in its opening ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Games. The only thing that made the smoke signals we sent out to the world comprehensible to so many people was the Lagarde finds word of praise for Greek efforts fact that many students around the globe have at least a rudimentary knowledge of ancient Greek history. International Monetary Fund Managing Director gross domestic product this year and 2.7 percent next In contrast, Britain showed confidence not for its past Christine Lagarde defended the lender’s role in Greece year, the Washington-based IMF said in a July 16 re- but for the fact that the symbols of its modern culture and said the nation has made progress even as it port. are immediately recognized worldwide: James Bond needs to deepen structural changes to its economy. The IMF had forecast in April that Greece’s deficit (with Queen Elizabeth playing herself), Harry Potter, “When I look back to the initial program and the will be 7.2 percent this year and 4.6 percent in 2013. Mary Poppins, David Beckham and The Beatles. achievements of the Greek economy and the Greek “The IMF never leaves the negotiation table,” Lagarde But, what is the point of trying to come first in a non- population, it’s impressive,” Lagarde told reporters in said when asked about the lender’s role in Greece. competition? Washington. “There is still a lot that the country can do.” “Will the IMF lose its credibility in the process? I will do Or, to put the question in different words: Is the fact Greece’s budget deficit will narrow to 7 percent of everything I can to avoid that.” the we always cast Greece as beautiful and heroic BATTLE TO PROTECT MARRIAGE NOT OVER – JUST BEGUN

By Greg Donnelly MLC “For opponents of gay marriage, stopping gay marriage law applies. Our polity is structured in such a way as to Parliament of New South Wales is not victory, it is only a necessary step to the ultimate mitigate against small unrepresentative groups in society victory: the strengthening of a culture of marriage that suc- imposing their views on everyone. Our elected represen- Whether you are an observer or participant in the ongo- cessfully connects sex, love, children, and mothers and fa- tatives are put in place by the people and are replaced by ing debate to change the definition of marriage to accom- thers. the people. modate the demands of same-sex attracted people, it “Core assumptions that same-sex marriage advocates As I have spoken to various federal politicians over the feels as if this contest of ideas has been going on a long make about the nature of marriage, about the reason for last 12 months or so, it has become clearer to me that the time. And make no mistake - it is a battle of ideas. the government’s involvement in marriage, about how le- majority oppose changing our definition of marriage. The The truth of the matter is that if you take Australia, for gal classifications affect culture, and about the relationship more they think deeply about what marriage intrinsically is example, and trace back human occupation - around between civil marriage as a legal institution and marriage and what it provides society, the less inclined they are to 60,000 years or so - it is only over literally the last few as a social institution, must be disinterred and addressed. support changing its definition. The more they listen care- years that the argument has been advanced that same- “The fact that ordinary voters continue to grasp the loss- fully to their constituents and what mainstream Australians sex attracted people should have a legal right to come to- es same-sex marriage entails more deeply than many in- are saying about marriage, the less inclined they are to gether and live in a relationship that such people can call tellectuals is part of the paradox of this debate. Very few support change. a marriage. intelligent gay-marriage advocates appear to even grasp However, nothing in politics is forever. Our federal Furthermore, many of those advocating a change in the what they are asking of those of us who disagree with politicians, both MHRs and Senators, return to Parliament definition of marriage, particularly a number of high pro- their core assumptions about sex and marriage.” on 14th August after the winter recess. The debates on file celebrities, public figures and politicians, cannot seem While her comments are made in the context of the US same-sex marriage in both the House of Representatives to comprehend or understand why there is such signifi- same-sex marriage debate, they also have resonance and the Senate will recommence. The choice is stark and cant opposition to the proposal. Many seem to find it un- here in Australia. clear for our federal politicians. It is one position or the believable that anyone would resist or oppose the idea. Those pursuing change believe that they are on a mis- other. If you have not yet contacted your federal Member As the evidence is now starting to demonstrate, many ad- sion. They are highly motivated, well organised and well of Parliament and Senators on this most important issue, vancing the cause for change instead of facing up to and funded. They keep asserting publically, “We are on the do not put it off any longer or leave it to somebody else. dealing with the strong arguments for maintaining the sta- right side of history”. Moreover, they will not give up. They We all have a responsibility to make our voices heard. tus quo, are playing the person not the ball. They are try- are pursuing a cause, an idea. Setbacks or failures are Google Parliament of Australia or type www.aph.gov.au ing to brand their opponents as bigots and homophobes. something taken in their stride, in fact they draw strength into your computer and follow the link to Members and Maggie Gallagher who is the co-founder of the National from them. They have a vision that in the end, they will Senators. Arrange an appointment to see them, write a Organisation for Marriage has been arguing against the prevail. letter, send an email, sign a petition or phone them up. proposal to change the definition of marriage for a num- Only time will tell if those advocating change will get There are many ways that you can make your voice ber of years. In a recent published essay on the issue she their way. However, we can say this: we are all fortunate heard. There are no excuses - act now. says: to live in a parliamentary democracy where the rule of 4/22 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA AUGUST 2012

CRAFTY TEACHERS EXPOSED

On a crisp but sunny winter’s morning 23 scripture Craft in-service participants from all over Sydney teachers from the Archdiocese met for an in-service workshop on craft at the All Saints’ Parish in Belmore, Sydney. Travelling north from the expressway one can see the dome of the church from afar. It is immediately recog- nisable as a symbol of our Orthodox faith. It provided a welcome sight for teachers travelling up to 60km to at- tend the workshop. The workshop took place in the new hall that is op- posite form the award-winning primary school. The training meetings are hosted by the parish and freely open to all scripture teachers. The aim of the in-service course was to share ideas on the many ways craft can be used by teachers to stimulate student interest in the Scripture lesson. The course leaders were Mrs Maria Kollias, an expe- rienced high school teacher, and Mrs Angela Vlahos who is known widely for her love of craft in religious education. The day began with a colourful and inspiring presen- tation of teaching aids. Explanations were given about how to use these in a religious lesson. The teaching aids included a small Epitaphio (with Angela Vlahos and Maria Kollias lights), the Holy Communion chalice, a magnetic board ence in constructing two teaching aids. marks, origami boat, decoupage livani box. displaying priestly vestments, a fishing game and a Mrs Kollias demonstrated the variety of ways a felt Participants were then involved in constructing two model of Christ’s Tomb. Teachers were introduced to a board can be used by the teacher to gain student inter- items. They made an icon of the Panayia on a laminate display of journals produced by children from the Scrip- est and attention in the Scripture lesson. This adds vari- sheet and a mosaic cross. ture classes of Mrs Vlahos. ety and interest to lessons. The response from the participants was positive and It was not only show-and-tell but also involved practi- Many different craft activities for students were also everyone supported a move away from talking to doing. cal activities. Participants were given hands-on experi- displayed. These included palm crosses, Bible book- It is planned to organise this as an annual event. A successful year for ‘This Is My Athens’ initiative

‘This Is My Athens’, an initiative to help tourists get bet- Monastiraki and Thiseio). ter acquainted with the Greek capital through tours con- The majority of participants said they were satisfied in ducted by volunteers, celebrated its first birthday on the following areas: first, the availability of information Wednesday, July 18, at the Technopolis cultural complex in available about the destination prior to their trip, second, Gazi, and made public the findings of a survey conducted the quality of services provided during their visit, and then over the course of its first year of operation. by the choices available to them for online reservations. ‘This Is My Athens’ (www.thisisathens.org) was Some complained that they found the selection of tours launched last summer by the municipal-run Athens Tou- and activities advertised or suggested for Athens to be rism & Economic Development Company with the assis- limited. tance of the www.breathtakingathens.com web por- Asked about the advantages of Athens over other tourist tal. It currently counts 400 volunteers, who have conduct- destinations, historical and archaeological sites scored the ed over 100 tours of places in the city that cannot be highest, followed by the local community and the urban found in most travel guides, offering insider knowledge of landscape of Athens. Low scores were given to the avail- life in Athens, as well as good company and entertain- ability of cultural activities for non-Greek speakers. ment. In eight separate categories regarding the overall image The tours are free of charge and do not include archae- of the city - security, value for money, behavior/friendli- ological or historical information, which, by law, can only ganization: 70 percent of respondents said they were vis- ness of local population, choice of activities, quality of be provided by professional tour guides. iting Athens for the first time; 74 percent were visiting for services at sites, hotels and transport, as well as the at- At the Technopolis event, organizers of ‘This Is My leisure and 28 percent for business; 50 percent stayed in tractiveness of traditional/historic parts of the city - Athens Athens’ also presented the findings of a survey conducted Athens for 4-6 days and 33 percent stayed for 2-3 days; was also given high marks by respondents, who said that by volunteers to gauge tourist satisfaction with Athens as 48 percent stayed in 3- and 4-star hotels and 100 percent their view of the city in regard to these categories a destination and with the services provided by the or- visited the historic center (Acropolis, Plaka, Kerameikos, changed radically after their visit. AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 5/23 Our Primate’s View

The first fortnight of August is a period of our ecclesi- tragic Emperor could not possibly respond to such diffi- astical year, during which the Orthodox faithful turn their cult responsibilities without endangering his health. It attention with deep compunction of heart to the All-Holy was for this reason that he died just at the age of 36 Theotokos. For fifteen days before the Feast of the Dor- years. mition, the Church bells sound in the afternoon, calling His life was characterized by many antinomies that the multitudes of the faithful to come and chant the were neither unheard in the Byzantine Palace nor in the Great Paracletic Canon. Similarly the period of the surrounding higher society. Yet this was precisely the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos is full of appropriate greatest achievement of Byzantium towards humanity, feelings of contrition. However, while the doxological namely the fact that the antinomies of life never pre- tone prevails in the Akathist Hymn, triumphantly praising vented the person’s view of eternity and salvation. As the graces of the “One who became the Mother of God”, long as there was repentance. People then committed the prevailing note of the Paracletic Canon in August is horrible crimes, but with rivers of sincere tears they one of sorrow and grief for the painful soul of the faith- were purified before the eyes of God and people. The ful, who seek comfort and consolation from the Virgin. entire period of the Christian Middle Ages of the East Of course every one has heard with contrition the and the West differs from contemporary times precise- heart-rending verses of the Great Paracletic Canon, ly by this characteristic feature. Allegedly for humanistic which speak about “the illnesses of the soul and body”. reasons, the aim of our modern time is to form a law- But here, it is not a matter of pain for despair, which abiding and honest citizen, without paying attention to usually leads to faithflessness and apostasy. The kind of his deeper convictions, his faith and his general spiritu- pain a person suffers for God is pain for understanding, al wakefulness. Thus, such a citizen today may avoid which becomes a purge and a step for elevation; be- cause, whilst it grieves and wounds him, it does not es- trange him from God, but leads him to a deeper under- The Great By ARCHBISHOP standing of God. So grief comes to a peak and also to a STYLIANOS pause in the following form of supplication: “O All- OF AUSTRALIA praised Theotokos, look favourably upon the hard suf- Paracletic Canon ferings of my body and cure the pain of my soul” Superficially hearing the verses of the Great Paraclet- ic Canon, one gets the impression that a certain anony- more carefully committing a direct and primitive crime in mous hymnographer plainly dramatises the sufferings his relations with his fellow citizen, which from at least of soul and body for all the faithful. Indeed, every Chris- a legal viewpoint proves him to be more righteous than tian has repeatedly experienced “the raging of his pas- the Christian of the Middle Ages; bur this same citizen of sions” and at times has been “distressed by many temp- modern times and of humanism, feeling numbed in his tations”. However, a more careful reading and in depth “autonomous” and self-governed morality has never study of these sacred verses makes clear that the Can- come to know the contrition and purification, the repen- non is not a description and narration of the general ad- tance and sanctification, resulting from tears after sin. ventures of man in the daily struggle for his perfection. And the question is asked: What relation can citizens of It rather presents heart-rending cries “from life itself” for this kind have with God’s Kingdom? We know that Christ grief and pain that comes to us “from first hand”. proclaimed “I have not come to call the righteous but the Therefore, we have before us an entirely personal sinful people unto repentance” (Mark 2, 17); which drama, experienced by a certain historical and known means that God’s Kingdom is not inhabited by the fault- person, who lived in real and concrete circumstances. less narcissus, that displayed no flaw before God’s un- How many of our unsuspecting faithful, who often chant fathomable mysteries, but by people who are reborn the Canon, know who this person is? One might expect through repentance. that the hymnographer of this Great Paracletic Canon Knowing precisely these saving truths, the Emperor would be a sensitive feminine person, like Kassiani, or a Theodoros Laskaris II, although he describes himself as certain elder monk of the desert. Yet, neither the one nor “having being wounded in many ways by grief and was the other is the case. The composer of this mournful still being wounded”, yet he does not despair, but be- hymnological text was a man in his prime and a king - lieves and remains vigilant. He expresses the belief and the Byzantine emperor of Nicaea, Theodoros Laskaris II the hope that despite all his misfortunes God works out (1222-1258), who was tonsured a monk just before his his salvation: “Alas, what has not been inflicted on me! I death and received the name of Theodosios. can say nothing other than the purification of the soul According to his biographers, he was an especially and the humiliation of the flesh, so that the creator may delicate and polite person, and was blessed with great bring salvation to both”. education for his time. However, he lived at a very diffi- May the memory of the blessed Emperor Theodoros cult period. Laskaris II, who taught us the Paracletic Canon, be eter- The Latins had captured Constantinople; the Bulgarians nal! and Kingdom of Epirus had to be faced appropriately and the Moslems in Asia Minor constituted an immediate Source: «Ἐνσαρκώσεις τοῦ Δόγματος», and permanent threat. Possessing an artistic nature, this Ἐκδ. ΔΟΜΟΣ, Ἀθήνα 1996.

GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AUSTRALIA Visit our website www.greekorthodox.org.au AUGUST 2012 6/24 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

August0026 er quality from ABC radio (try News Radio 630 AM). Teach your kids to read a decent newspaper, such as Letter the Age, Australian or Sydney Morning Herald. They will learn far more about the world. The programs, especially commercials, are contrived from to control our attention. The content infiltrates our thoughts, memories and values. Much of the program- ming is harmful to our health, let alone our personal and Maroubra spiritual development. We become a product of the mass media. We have been brainwashed. For the past 15 years the American Academy of Pae- diatrics has been concerned about the effects of televi- Sotto voce... sion (see http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/con- tent/107/2/423.full) It recommends parents discourage Often there appears to be an endless line of people TV for children under two and limit screen time for old- who come knocking at the door of my Maroubra Man- er children to less than two hours a day. sions. They are all trying to sell me something. Of course, there might be some justification of having If it is not Jehovah’s Witnesses who wish to convert television for seniors or those who are housebound. But me, then it is probably the electricity company wanting beyond that there is little to be gained. For most of us me to change to a cheaper plan, or someone offering life continues quite nicely without it. You can increase me home delivery of fruit and vegetables. It is a fre- the level of family interaction without television. You in- quent scene. tives. Some of them probably thought my superannua- crease the discussion. The meals are uninterrupted. It Usually I just say “No thank you” or “We already have tion had evaporated. Others were convinced that I was does not take control. electricity” or “Thanks, but we shop at Aldi”. One after- insane. So what does one do? Take away the television? No. noon a young salesperson asked: “Do you want cable Life in the Maroubra Mansions, however, has pro- It is not that easy. Moreover it is not fair to take some- TV?” ceeded uneventfully. There hasn’t been any major dis- thing away without replacing or exchanging it. At the I replied, sotto voce: “Sorry, I don’t even have televi- ruption in our lives. We still know what is happening in very least supervise it. Television viewing in your home sion.” They really didn’t believe me. I even offered a the world around us. Really, there is not much that is - if you are to have a TV - needs to be strictly controlled. free guided tour of the Maroubra Mansions to verify it. new! Assert yourself. Limit the amount of viewing. Do not About 99.5% of Australian homes have a television. Of They are always fighting in the Middle East. Greece is allow anyone to watch whatever they want whenever these more than two thirds have a second television. So still in debt. Everyone dislikes the government or the op- they want, wherever they want. I’m definitely in the minority. position or the independents; and Eastern Suburbs And another piece of advice - never answer the door. Well it’s been some seven months now without a tel- rarely wins a match. It’s probably someone from Foxtel! evision in our life. It passed away, gave up the ghost. I did not realise that television took up such a large I had been threatening for years that I would not re- portion of life. For most people it is actually an average Source: American Academy of Paediatrics (2001). Chil- place it. The first month was dreadful. of three hours per day. That means by the time your son dren, adolescents and television. Paediatrics, Vol. 107, No. Some evenings I would plonk myself down on the or daughter finishes high school, they would have spent 2, 423-426. lounge and just stare at where it used to be. more time in front of a television than in a classroom. But the worst was the subtle and not so subtle pres- Do the calculations. The views expressed are those of the author and not neces- sure on all sides. There was nowhere to hide. Some say that they get their news from television. sarily those of the VEMA or St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theo- I even received offers of a free television from rela- Well you can get more news in less time and of a high- logical College. Iliadis helps lift country's gloom Gave Greece its first Olympic medal in London 2012

"I don't know what to say. You should tell me, you saw composing himself after his victory. "I dedicate this the fight. I'm still in shock. I thank God". medal first to God, then to all Greek people, those that These were Ilias Iliadis' first words after the end of managed to get here and support me and everyone his match against Brazilian Tiago Camilo. Humble in vic- waiting at home. And of course to my daughter and son tory as he always is, the naturalised Greek, who was who are waiting for me in Halkidiki". adopted by his coach Nikos Iliadis after coming to For Iliadis, it was just further proof of his impressive Greece from his native Georgia, gave Greece its first consistency of performance on the "big" stage. For Olympic medal in this year's Olympic Games in London, Greece, it was rather more. in what has been a hugely disappointing campaign. Hit by controversy before the Games even begun, Media joy with Voula Papachristou and Dimitris Hondrokoukis be- ing ousted for racist comments and failing a drug test As soon as the result broke (since Greek national tel- respectively, the Greek team went into the competition evision somehow managed to miss broadcasting his with spirits at an all-time low. clash with the Brazilian live), you could all but sense the Earlier in the Games, Vlasis Maras also failed to ful- excitement jumping out of your screen, as online media fill his gold tinted potential, when an unfortunate fumble ran with Iliadis-the-conqueror-isms and the like, over on the high beam, cost him a possible place on the the moon that finally, one of our athletes had managed podium. to lift the dark cloud hanging over the country, if for on- Focus was understandably tight on Iliadis, the Athens ly a short while. 2004 gold medalist. Television and radio were right on their tail, hailing And the burly Iliadis did not disappoint. Fighting in the his victory as nothing short of heroic, singing the prais- -90kg category, he may have seen his chances for gold es of the "lifelong battler" who overcame the obstacles wrecked after losing to Russian Kirill Denisov, but he set in front of him to shower himself in glory. knew that if he picked himself up and wrestled his way Over the top? Maybe. Understandable? Very. through two more opponents, then he could claim a Even Golden Dawn were brought into it, jokes making bronze medal and get his adopted country off the mark the rounds almost instantly as to if the neo-nazi Greek in London. "purists" would join everyone else in celebrating the Steamrolling through Australian Mark Anthony in an al- win, since dark-skinned, Georgia-born Iliadis hardly most blink-and-you'll-miss-it thirty nine seconds, Iliadis ticked the "we are Greek, you are not" party checklist. then set up a medal date with Camilo, in a tense en- In Iliadis the nation certainly had a performer more counter that ultimately found the Greek judoka celebrat- than willing to step up when the going gets tough. ing a much needed victory for both the Olympic team Greek "purists" could learn a thing or two from the and an embattled nation back home. man. So could the country's political leaders. Iliadis (left) recognised that this was a time that the country really "This is a time that Greece needs medals," he said, AthensNews needed medals and dedicated his win to all Greeks AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 7/25

Growing up fast and furious Media’s impact on our children What ‘brand’ is your child? Part 2

By Fr George Liangas These results were interpreted as follows: Some people say that depriving children of media and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist popular consumer goods leads to the ‘forbidden fruit School Chaplain, All Saints Grammar, Sydney 1) People who are more envious of others, worry syndrome’; that if you deprive a child of something, more about how much they have, have stronger desires they’ll want it more. They also worry that these children to acquire money and possessions, and place more im- will miss out socially. However, there is no evidence “In the old days, even children were tough and endured a portance on financial success are more likely to be de- that this is the case, especially when the following steps lot. Now we need vitamins B, C and D and a Mercedes in pressed and anxious. are taken: order to make it”. 2) Desiring less, rather than getting more, seems to Elder Paisios of Mount Athos be the key to contentment and well-being. 1) Filling children’s lives with play and other creative 3) Children who are more consumerist may be less and social activities. This enhances their creativity and Juliet Schor is a professor of sociology and an expert inclined to socialise with their peers, siblings and par- teaches them how to amuse themselves. Activities such on consumerism. In her book ‘Born to Buy’ she discuss- ents, and may have poorer social connections overall. as reading, writing poetry, doing art projects and getting es how marketers are influencing children through elec- They may be less engaged in satisfying, creative and exercise makes children more complete persons. tronic media. She argues that marketers are placing educational activities such as reading, unstructured play, 2) Parents spending quality time with their children. themselves between the parent and the child, creating or physical activity. They may have poorer imagination. 3) Parents discussing the dangers of consumerism “utopian spaces free of parents and employ insidious 4) Consumerism may be a substitute for what keeps and excessive media with their children. dual-messaging strategies”1. They ‘team up’ with the children happy and healthy. 4) Parents leading by example in limiting their own child against the parent in order to meet the children’s 5) Excessive consumerism reduces children’s self-es- media use and consumeristic habits. excessive wishes. teem in the areas of peer and family relationships. 5) Families staying well-connected with their commu- 6) The more enmeshed children are in consumer cul- nities, such as their church communities. Effects of consumerism ture, the more they suffer for it: “the bottom line on the 6) Children and families reconnecting with nature, on children’s wellbeing culture they’re raised in is that it’s a lot more pernicious which helps them to keep active and spend quality time than most adults have been willing to admit”. with each other. Fostering children’s connection to the In order to study the effect of consumerism on chil- outdoors enhances emotional and spiritual well-being. dren, Schor recruited 300 children aged 10 to 13, who Schor is not alone in ending up at these findings. Oth- completed 157 questions, covering topic areas including er researchers of the field have come to similar conclu- Many of these activities require time and energy. For media use, consumer values and involvement in con- sions. Some of these researchers are Tim Kasser, many families, this is difficult, especially when they have sumer culture, relationships with parents, and measures Richard Ryan, Marcia Richins, Scott Dawson and Russell financial pressures or other stressors. However, as of physical and mental well-being. The study found the Belk. These authors’ research confirm that excessive fo- Schor writes, “reducing stress and finding time are cru- following: cus on consumer goods leads to unhappiness and dis- cial to engaging with kids in less commercial ways”. She tress, and this happens in men and women, teens and points out some research showing that most children 1) Children who spend more time watching television adults, across income groups and across countries. As would like their parents spending more time and doing and using other media become more involved in con- Schor writes, “the clear conclusion of all this work is that more fun things with them (e.g. bike riding, gardening, sumer culture (i.e. they become more consumeristic). the more strongly a person subscribes to materialist playing ball games or visiting a zoo or aquarium), much 2) Higher levels of consumerism made children more values, the poorer is his or her quality of life”. more than wanting them to earn more money. depressed, more anxious, with worse self-esteem, had more stomach aches and headaches, and more bore- Decommercialising the Household Schor concludes by saying: “The prevalence of harm- dom. ful and addictive products, the imperative to keep up, 3) Higher levels of consumerism led to worse rela- Schor describes that one major way to decrease chil- and the growth of materialist attitudes are harming kids. tionships with parents: children had poorer attitudes dren’s consumerism is to decrease their media expo- If we are honest with ourselves, adults will admit that about their parents, and had more disagreements with sure. She writes: “those who were most successful we are suffering from many of the same influences. them. Children with worse relationships with parents were thoughtful and consistent in their rules and choic- That means our task should be to make the world a had poorer psychological wellbeing. es. They spent a lot of time with their children. And per- safer and more life-affirming place for everyone. Re- 4) Using particular statistical methods, the study was haps most important, these families’ lives were full of versing corporate-constructed childhood is a good first able to show that these results were unidirectional: engaging alternatives to the corporate offerings”. Rules step”. higher consumerism led to poorer psychological wellbe- were tailored to the needs of individual children, and ing and poorer relationships with parents, and not the children made the most of doing homework, sports, ex- other way round. tracurricular activities and outdoor play. 1 Schor JB. Born to buy. New York: Scribner; 2005. Visit to Brisbane and the Gold Coast by Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis

His Grace Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis visited Brisbane and the Gold Coast between 24 - 28 July 2012. His Grace attended the Parish Feasts of St Anna on the Gold Coast and St Paraskevi in Brisbane. He also celebrated the Di- vine Liturgy for the Feast of St Panteleimon at the Church of Our Lady at Bribie Island, where the Archdiocese is developing a Na- tional Youth Camp and Retreat Centre. Clergy from throughout Queensland came together with His Grace in celebration. While in South East Queensland, His Grace enjoyed extensive contact with local communities who received him enthusiastical- ly. His Grace conveyed the Archbishop’s blessings and prayers for each Parish Community in Queensland. He also attended din- ners hosted by local parishes and chaired a meeting of the Queensland Clergy at the Parish-Community of St George. On the occasion of His Grace’s pastoral visit, the Parish-Com- munity of St George donated $20,000 for the work of the Arch- diocese (half for the Bribie Island Project and half for St An- drew’s Theological College). The Parish of St John in Cairns also generously donated $10,000 for the Bribie Island Project. AUGUST 2012 8/26 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

SERVICE BOOKS CONTINUE TO BE IN HIGH DEMAND 45,000 since 1993!

Every fortnight, for the past two decades, a small group of people meet as the Committee on the Trans- lation of Liturgical Texts (an initiative of the Greek Or- thodox Archdiocese of Australia) under the tireless chairmanship of Dr John Lee. The aim of the Committee, with the full blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, is to make good quality translations of the main Services of the Ortho- dox Church into contemporary but dignified English. In this attempt, earlier translations are taken into account and compared before arriving at the final translation into English. Four books have resulted thus far: the Book of Prayers, Divine Liturgy, Holy Baptism and Funeral Serv- ice. The Marriage Service is soon to follow. The fruits of the Committee are published by St An- drew’s Orthodox Press as bi-lingual books, with the original Greek appearing on the left side, and the Eng- lish text on each facing page. Something nobody could have expected when this translation effort first began, is the significant size of St Dionysios Church receives facelift the print runs and the frequency of the reprints and new editions that would follow, so as to meet the The next time you travel to the Parish of St Dionysios, many requests of parishes and individuals alike Central Mangrove, NSW, to venerate and pay respect to throughout Australia. The popularity of these publica- the much-loved saint of forgiveness, St Dionysios of Za- tions has helped the Church address the need to bring kynthos, be prepared for a big surprise. about some uniformity in the use of English liturgical A handful of locals have taken it upon themselves, with- texts amidst our current Australian reality. They com- out any commotion, to give the rural Church a complete plement, rather than replace, the liturgical and biblical facelift. From being an average-sized plain Orthodox language used in Greek Orthodox worship. Church, St Dionysios now boasts, as you can see in the Importantly, they are designed to be as accessible photographs, a new facade and foyer with beautiful arch- as possible to any interested person (this includes the es and two towering domed bell towers painted in the tra- format and even the price), as Service books are, ditional Greek island colours of blue and white. above all, aids for prayer. One local resident said, “I feel like I am in Greece on Below one can see the publications, and the year in one of the Islands with those beautiful blue and white which their respective editions or reprints appeared, domes. I never expected to see anything like this on Man- totalling an astounding 45,000 copies. grove Mountain.” Every Service provides a ‘window’ into the very Mr Andrew Menelaou, the president of the Parish ex- faith that gave rise to them. It is surely a credit to the claimed, “this is the happiest day of my life. It is all worth faithful people of God that there is such a level of it, St Dionysios deserves it.” spiritual thirst and interest in obtaining the sacred The facelift has made St Dionysios Church a landmark words of our Services and, in this way, learning and for the district and the pride and joy of all local Orthodox praying them more intimately than before. DK and non-Orthodox Christians alike. Even more amazing, however, is that the works were not undertaken by a con- Book of Prayers struction company with an army of trade people. Instead, the entire works were carried out by a small group of lo- 1993 5,000 hardback cal volunteers. The concrete bell towers were constructed 1997 5,000 hardback in the backyard of a local farm and transported to the 2005 5,000 hardback Church on the back of one of the volunteer’s truck and 2010 3,000 hardback were then lifted by crane into position. Each tower weighs 2012 new edition forthcoming over seven tons! VEMA warmly congratulates all the locals concerned, Divine Liturgy especially the Parish president, for undertaking this diffi- cult but blessed task. May God bless them and their fam- 1994 small preliminary print run ilies for many years to come. 1996 5,000 paperback 1999 2,000 paperback 2005 8,000 hardback 2011 5,000 hardback Most Greeks wary of using web Holy Baptism for banking, shopping 2008 5,000 hardback Greek web users are by and large distrustful of online ence to use certain websites safely and effectively. stores, and generally skeptical about making online Specifically, 62 percent of Greeks said they feel un- Funeral Service transactions, a recent survey conducted on behalf of the certain about their own skills in using the Internet for on- European Commission found. line banking transactions or purchases, while 72 percent 2011 2,000 hardback The Eurobarometer survey showed that Greeks’ atti- admit that they are not well informed of the dangers of tudes toward the Internet are affected by a lack of trust, cyber crimes. For enquiries: [email protected] especially when it comes to their rights as consumers. Meanwhile, an overwhelming number of Greeks feel This sense of insecurity is compounded by users also that they are at risk of falling victim to a cyber scam, and For orders: [email protected] feeling that they lack the technical knowledge or experi- even more so today. AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 9/27 STS T SPYSPYRIDONR IDO N CCOLLEGEO LLE GE

Invitation to your child’s future Discover the secret of success at the St. Spyridon College Junior School Open morning.

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ForFor bookingsbookings or enrolment informationinformation please contactcontact MrsMrs SophieSophie BalayannisBalayannis on (02)(02) 93119311 3340 or [email protected]@stspyridon.nsw.edu.au or visit www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.auwww.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au 10/28 TO BHMA - AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA - AUGUST 2012 11/29

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia ST EUPHEMIA ST EUPHEMIA COLLEGE COLLEGE

Official Opening

With great pleasure we announce the opening of our new facilities at 16-18 East Terrace, Bankstown.

The facilities include a new shaded area with playground equipment and picnic seating, refurbished School Hall, new classroom, new

amenities and refurbished Primary Library.

The Opening Ceremony will take place on Sunday 26 August 2012, in the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, the theConsulate Consul General for Greece, Federal, State and Local authorities and other officials. The official ceremony will begin at 12:00pm in the new School Hall.

This day will be a memorable one for all within our Local and Parish Community. We encourage everyone to attend and share in this special day with us.

An auction for the Gold, Silver and Bronze key will also take place on the day. ͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙͙

Ȳʌɿʍʃʊʅɸɽɲʍʏɻʆɸʐʖɳʌɿʍʏɻɽɹʍɻʆɲʍɲʎɲʆɲʃʉɿʆʙʍʉʐʅɸ͕ʊʏɿɻ ɲʆɲʃɲʀʆɿʍɻʏʉʐHall͕ʋʌʉɲʐʄʀʉʐʃɲɿʏɻʎɴɿɴʄɿʉɽɼʃɻʎʏʉʐʍʖʉʄɸʀʉʐ ɹʖɸɿʋʄɹʉʆʉʄʉʃʄɻʌʘɽɸʀ͘ ȸʏɸʄɸʏɼʏʘʆɽʐʌɲʆʉɿʇʀʘʆɽɲɶʀʆɸɿʏɻʆȾʐʌɿɲʃɼϮϲȰʐɶʉʑʍʏʉʐ͕ ʋɲʌʉʐʍʀɲʏʉʐɇɸɴɲʍʅɿʘʏɳʏʉʐȰʌʖɿɸʋɿʍʃʊʋʉʐʅɲʎʃ͘ʃ͘ɇʏʐʄɿɲʆʉʑ͕ ʏʘʆɅʌʉʇɸʆɿʃʙʆɲʌʖʙʆʏʉʐȴɻʅɳʌʖʉʐʏɻʎʋʊʄɻʎʅɲʎ͕ʏʘʆ ɃʅʉʍʋʉʆɷɿɲʃʙʆʃɲɿɅʉʄɿʏɸɿɲʃʙʆɲʌʖʙʆʃɲɿɳʄʄʘʆɸʋɿʍɼʅʘʆ͘

ɇɲʎʋɸʌɿʅɹʆʉʐʅɸʊʄʉʐʎʍʏɲɽʐʌɲʆʉʀʇɿɲʏɻʆȾʐʌɿɲʃɼϮϲȰʐɶʉʑʍʏʉʐ ʍʏɿʎϭϮʅ͘ʅ͘ Ⱥɲɶʀʆɸɿɷɻʅʉʋʌɲʍʀɲɶɿɲɍʌʐʍʊʆ͕Ȱʌɶʐʌʊʆʃɲɿɍɳʄʃɿʆʉʃʄɸɿɷʀ͘ 12/30 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA AUGUST 2012 AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 13/31

High Court rejects plain packaging challenge

Kouvelos fires back at Erdogan, over Olympic flame ownership

The chief of Greece’s London Olympics mission Isidoros Kouvelos, has hit back at Turkish Prime Min- ister Recep Tayyip Erdoðan and his view that Turkey are in fact the true “owners” of the Olympic flame and by connection, the Olympic spirit itself. The Turks argue that a short distance from Antalya, The High Court has rejected big tobacco's constitutional favour, clearing the way for the plain packets to be on the is a mountain called Mount Olympus, where the challenge to the Federal Government's plain packaging shelves on December 1. The decision has been hailed as ground is heated by natural ways, due to the exis- laws, clearing the way for the new-look packets to hit a "massive victory" for the Government and for Attorney- tence of methane in the subsoil and support a local Australian shelves. General Nicola Roxon, who led the push for plain packag- legend, according to which, the specific area is the The new laws will require cigarettes to be sold in olive ing during her time as health minister. original source of the Olympic flame that burns in An- green packs without trademarks and with graphic health Welcoming the "historic" decision, Ms Roxon called on cient Olympia. warnings. the tobacco companies to quit fighting the measures and In Erdogan’s meeting with Olympic Games chief They were set to be introduced in December, but were get on with implementing plain packaging. Jacques Rogge, the Turkish prime minister said that put on hold after the challenge was mounted by major to- "This is good news for every Australian parent who Turkey is the root of the Olympic Flame, and asked bacco companies including British American tobacco, worries about their child picking up an addictive and dead- for it to be “returned home” , in order for it to coincide Philip Morris, Imperial Tobacco and Japan Tobacco. ly habit," she told a Canberra news conference. with the country’s play for the Olympic Games of The companies argued the Government was trying to "I want to say that we are proud as a Government for 2020. Kouvelos was sharp in his released statement, acquire their intellectual property, including trademarks, the action that we've taken. We are very pleased that the inviting Erdogan to top up on his Olympic history. without proper compensation. highest court in Australia has said that the Australian Con- “The story is based on historic facts and evidence But the Government argued that it was only trying to stitution allows this measure to be introduced." rather than myths”, he said. regulate what appears on the boxes, and was not acquir- Ms Roxon's successor as Health Minister, Tanya “I would cordially like to invite Mr. Erdogan and his ing any trademarks. Plibersek, said the decision deprived tobacco companies minister Mr Kilic to ancient Olympia, to where the The High Court has now ruled in the Government's of their "mobile billboards" in smokers' pockets. Olympic Academy resides, so they can both attend some interesting lectures on Olympic history”.

AthensNews No extension of military service, minister says The military service will not be extended by three months as it had originally been planned, Defence Minister Panos Panagiotopoulos has said. Mr Panagiotopoulos said that “our youth has in re- cent years suffered so much, that we cannot burden them with an extra three months of military service”. Currently, the length of national service is nine months. Its extension was among the issues raised ahead of the national elections in May and June, but it was decided that the new government would be re- sponsible for making a decision and bearing the cost of it. However, the coalition government has decided not to go ahead with the extension. The decision was The Ambassador of Greece in Australia, Mr Alexios Christopoulos (centre), attended recently a dinner hosted by the Greek largely due to the economic recession, as the exten- Orthodox Parish-Community of St George in Brisbane. In the above commemorative photo, we see Mr Christopoulos with sion of the compulsory service to twelve months Mr Jim Raptis (Hon Consul-General of Greece in Queensland), Rev Fr Dimitri Tsakas (Vicar General of the Archdiocese would significantly increase public spending. for Queensland), Rev Fr Anastasios Bozikis, and Mr Jim Georgiou (President of the Parish-Community of St George). AUGUST 2012 14/32 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Greece shouldn’t feel alone

I have visited Greece on countless occasions, drawn by cans, influenced by Hollywood, like to believe in happy capacity for survival, in spite of unending perils and suf- professional and personal reasons. But the most recent endings. ferings from external oppressors, matched only by their visit this month left a particularly deep impression on me. Perhaps it is my belief that the new Government of Na- own ceaseless feuds, quarrels and convulsions- No two It is clear, even from a brief stay, that the country is tional Salvation, knowing it has its back to the wall, has an cities have counted more with mankind than Athens and hurting badly. With unemployment skyrocketing, the econ- unique opportunity to begin the long process of turning Jerusalem- Personally I have always been on the side of omy contracting, more austerity demanded by the troika, things around, transforming a crisis, yes, into an opportu- both, and believe in their invincible power to survive inter- extremists in the wings, and many storefronts and of- nity. nal strife and the world tides threatening their extinction.” fice for rent, even the bright sunshine could not lift the col- Or perhaps it is because I draw inspiration from the his- It may be more than just sheer coincidence that Greeks lective mood. tory of Greeks and Jews, which Winston Churchill, in his and Jews are today once again drawing closer to one an- Yet I remain bullish on Greece. own inimitable way, captured so brilliantly: “No two races other. Perhaps it is my American-style optimism. We Ameri- have set such mark upon the world. Both have shown a Each faces challenges. Each finds a source of strength and support in the other. It is especially gratifying to see the growing link between Greece and Israel. I have been involved in Greek-Jewish issues long enough to remem- ber a time when the ties between the two countries were weak and frosty, largely because Greece saw its interests in the Arab world. Our point, repeated over and over, was that Greece did not have to choose between Israel and the Arab world. Other European countries managed to have good ties with both, and, therefore, it need not be viewed as a zero-sum equation. Things began to change in earnest with Prime Minister Konstantinos Mitsotakis, assisted by then Foreign Minister Antonis Samaras. They saw the obvious advantage in ex- ploring relations with a neighboring democracy in the Eastern Mediterranean. That was two decades ago. Opening Ceremony But in the last few years, things have really begun to take off in many spheres, with a potential for still more. As Greek leaders told us in Athens, “Greece and Israel today have a strategic partnership.” And the forthcoming visit to Greece of Israeli President Shimon Peres, following other Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Ne- tanyahu and Minister of Defense Ehud Barak, will no doubt take the link to the next level. With the Arab upheaval in full swing - Egypt’s future di- rection uncertain, Syria in flames, Gaza in the grip of Hamas, and Lebanon threated by Hezbollah’s state-within- a state - the nexus between Greece and Israel suddenly makes a lot of sense to more and more people. Add to that the rapidly changing energy picture. Israel All night Vigil and Cyprus have discovered massive reserves of gas in their territorial waters. That has profound consequences for the region, including Greece, which, I hope, will one day soon find itself in the same category as its friendly neighbors. Then there’s the growing stream of people coming into contact with one another. Israelis have discovered Greece as a tourist destination that is alluring and, at the same time, familiar. And Greeks are realizing that Israel, a coun- try that until recently had no natural resources yet built a Dinner cutting-edge economy based on intellectual capital, has much of value and applicability to share from its own ex- perience. As an American Jew with many friends in Greece, in- cluding the proud Jewish community reduced to a shadow of its former self by the Nazi occupation and deportation, I also do not want to be on the sidelines as Greece goes through its current anguish. Friends are tested in time of need. This is such a time. Together with our partners in the Divine Liturgy, and litany of the Holy Icon Greek American community, I hope we will encourage of Panagia of Yellow Rock more Americans to visit Greece, to explore business op- portunities, and to support government initiatives that con- tribute to brighter days ahead. There is a reservoir of good will in the United States to- wards Greece, explained by the prominent role of Ameri- cans of Greek background in all walks of life, by the deep contribution of Greek civilization to the evolution of Amer- ican ideas and ideals, and by the recognition that, for rea- sons of outlook and security, democracies must stand to- gether in this topsy-turvy world of ours. No outsider, neither Israel nor American Jewry, can sin- glehandedly reverse Greece’s direction. That is, first and foremost, a challenge for the Greek people. In the spirit of Churchill, I have confidence the challenge will be met. But nor should Greece ever feel alone in its struggle. Our task is to help ensure it does not. JERUSALEM POST (31/7/2012) NOTE: This article originally appeared in the Greek newspaper To Vima AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 15/33 Health

hard on a straw. Younger children who have small soft windpipes get in- to the most trouble. However, as they grow, the size and HEALTH strength of the windpipe increases and the less likely it is to collapse when inflamed. This is why croup is less com- mon in older children. NEWS Most episodes of croup are due to viral infection. The viruses infect the young children and cause swelling in the airways which leads to the symptoms. WITH DR. THEO PENKLIS * TREATMENT OF CROUP

The treatment of croup in its mild stages consists of re- CROUP: THE SIGNS assuring the child. A frightened child takes rapid shallow breaths which don’t get much air into the lungs, and plac- CAN BE SERIOUS! ing the child in a situation where the air is moist or hu- midified. Steam is a useful method of loosening the se- A very anxious mother came to see me this week with cretions in the blocked airway and allows the child to her two year old child. She described a difficult and fright- breathe more easily. ening night. Her two year old son woke at 2am with Parents are advised to take the child to the bathroom breathing difficulties. He was very short of breath. His lips and make the air warm and moist by running the hot wa- were blue. She described that “his chest was being ter taps or a steaming hot shower. The child must never sucked in” and he was making a very noisy breathing be put under the shower or left alone in the bathroom sound as he struggled to get his breath. with the hot taps running. Nursing the child in this atmos- This lady thought her child had croup and remembered croup. Croup tends to occur in the winter months. The phere will usually settle mild attacks. It is important to something about “treatment with steam” and took her child symptoms often get worse during the night because the keep the child calm. into the bathroom, turned on the hot shower and allowed air is colder at this time. The child should be given paracetamol for fever. More him to breathe the steam. In most cases this will settle the serious attacks of croup might require the administration croup down but in this case his breathing became worse. THE SYMPTOMS OF CROUP of corticosteroids. She called an ambulance urgently and her child was trans- ported to hospital. The main symptoms of croup are a harsh ‘barking’ THE SERIOUS SIGNS OF CROUP This lady was correct. The child had a nasty episode of cough and noisy breathing. croup and was appropriately treated at the hospital with Croup usually begins as a normal cold, then a sore If the croup is not settling with steam, the danger signs oral steroids (cortisone) and discharged in the morning for throat, hoarse voice and fever may follow. The cough is are when breathing becomes difficult. The child may be- follow up that day with his general practitioner. hollow sounding, usually called a ‘barking cough’ and is come pale and blue. The breast bone of the chest sucks Of course, not all cases of croup are this serious. very characteristic. in on breathing. The child may develop stridor. Sometimes ‘stridor’ can develop. This is like a high- The child’s condition can deteriorate rapidly which is WHAT IS CROUP? pitched wheezing or grunting noise. Stridor can be a seri- why severe cases usually need treatment in hospital ous sign. where steroid (cortisone) treatment either by mouth or Croup is a common viral infection of the upper airways. The child I saw this week had developed stridor. This spray may be required. The real danger in croup is of It involves inflammation of the larynx (the voice box), the was the noisy breathing sound his mother described. complete airways obstruction. In rare cases where chil- trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (large airways in the dren are slow to respond to steroids and humidified air, lungs). WHY CROUP OCCURS these children may need to be in hospital to have a tube Croup is a special medical condition of children, in that inserted in the trachea to maintain their airway. children normally have narrow air passages, and when in- When one breathes, air passes through the larynx and Remember, croup is a viral illness. It can be dangerous flammation occurs in these airways, the airway can be- trachea into the lungs. With croup, the voice box and because it can cause breathing difficulties which may be- come much narrower. This narrowing of the airway windpipe become inflamed and partly blocked. The block- come so serious that airway obstruction can occur. makes it difficult for air to flow through the narrow air- age occurs because the lining of the airways becomes Always, keep the child calm, treat with moist or humidi- way, so the child has difficulty breathing. swollen, and thick mucous sticks to the walls of the wind- fied air and seek help early if concerned. Croup usually occurs in children from six months to pipe. * The information given in this article is of a general nature and three years, but can occur in children up to six years. The When breathing in, this blockage causes the windpipe to readers should seek advice from their own medical practitioner be- younger the child, the more susceptible they will be to partly collapse. A similar thing happens when you suck fore embarking on any treatment.

St John’s College Olympics Day St John’s College, Melbourne, held its traditional Olympics day celebrations on Wednesday 1 August in recognition of the London Olympics. All students from Prep to Year 12 commenced the day with a walkathon and then participated in a variety of sporting and skill based activities testing their athleticism, and sportsmanship. The day commenced with the traditional passing of the Olympic torch from a grandparent to a par- ent, then a parent to a student before a Prep stu- dent lit the Flame to commence the opening cere- mony. Our year 5 & 6 girls dressed in Grecian outfits and wore an olive wreath on their heads to sym- bolise the traditional Olympic games. The students represented different countries and displayed the true Olympic spirit of sportsmanship and fair com- petition. At the end of the day, we concluded with a clos- ing ceremony and announced the winning countries - Greece, Australia and Italy. It was a memorable day and we look forward to our next Olympic Games in four years. AUGUST 2012 16/34 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA

Holy Cross Monastery celebrates St Irene Chrysovalantou

The love and dedication monastics have the faithful to better appreciate the liturgi- for the saints of our Church is reflected in cal wealth of the Orthodox faith and ethos. the daily services monasteries have in Both choirs were under the direction of Mr their honour each day of the Church calen- Basil Stavropoulos who is also their byzan- dar. However this love is also reflected in tine music teacher. the number of chapels that may be dedi- The highlight of the day was the blessing cated to various saints within a single of ‘St Irene’s apples’ by His Grace Bishop monastery. Seraphim, and their distribution to all the The Holy Cross Monastery, a convent for faithful. The blessing of the apples is asso- nuns at Mangrove Mountain, NSW, has the ciated with the life of St Irene. St John the blessing to have a small temporary chapel Theologian miraculously appeared to a dedicated to Saint Irene Chrysovalantou. humble sailor on the island of Patmos and Each year on 28th July, the day our holy Or- asked him to deliver by hand the apples to thodox Church commemorates Saint Irene, St Irene the Abbess of Chrysovalantou the nuns of Holy Cross Monastery, along Monastery. The apples were miraculous with many pilgrims, honour Saint Irene with and had a heavenly fragrance. the celebration of the Matins and Divine Today in the Orthodox Church many Liturgy services. childless couples who beseech the inter- Over the years St Irene has captured the cessions of St Irene and partake of the hearts of thousands of faithful all over Aus- blessed apples have their desires fulfilled. tralia. This year on Saturday 28th July ap- On this year’s feast day many children The Divine Liturgy, conducted by His Grace proximately 2000 pilgrims travelled to the named Chrysovalantou, Chrysovalanti or Bishop Seraphim of Apollonias, was celebrated Monastery to participate in very prayerful Irene, in honour of St Irene Chrysovalantou, within a large marquee, as it would have been Matins and Divine Liturgy services cele- came to the Monastery with their parents impossible for everyone to fit into St Irene’s brated by His Grace Bishop Seraphim of to express their gratitude to her. temporary chapel! Apollonias. His Grace was assisted by the For the convenience of the great number Abbot of Pantanassa Monastery, the Very of faithful this year, the Divine Liturgy was Rev. Fr Eusebios, together with the Very celebrated within a large marquee, as it Rev. Protopresbyter Dimitrios Kokkinos, would have been impossible for everyone Rev. Fr Gerasimos Koutsouras, Rev. Fr to fit into St Irene’s temporary chapel! The Stavros Karvelas and Deacon Prohoros. Holy Cross Monastery, with the blessing of The former Abbot of Pantanassa Monaste- His Eminence Archbishop Stylianos, hopes ry, the Very Rev. Elder Stephanos, was al- in the near future to begin construction of so present. their main church as well as a permanent His Grace, in his usual calm and serene chapel dedicated to St Irene. manner, helped everyone appreciate the The Abbess of the Holy Cross Monaste- presence of our Lord in our midst through ry, Gerontissa Philothei, and the Sisters the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, and would like to express their sincere grati- strengthened the faithful with his inspiring tude to all the faithful who attended the sermon on the Gospel reading and the life feast day of St Irene, and especially to of Saint Irene. those who offered their invaluable volun- One of the most inspiring surprises of tary assistance on that special day. May the day was the two choirs consisting of the intercessions of St Irene Chrysovalan- Australian-born youth. With their beautiful tou bless and protect all of us. byzantine chanting the choirs assisted all Christian Dior, Fendi, Gucci Greek scientists design early KaterinaKaterina ++ KyriacosKyriacos MavrolefterosMavrolefteros diagnosis tool for Alzheimer’s An early diagnosis protocol for Alzhei- mer’s has been designed by researchers at the Ionian University, opening the way for the prevention and more effective treatment of the neurodegenerative disor- der, which shows rapid deterioration and constitutes growing concern for modern societies. The tool for the early diagnosis and pre- vention of Alzheimer’s disease dysfunc- tions is unique and has already attracted the strong interest of domestic and foreign pharmaceutical companies. The research scientists have found the A team of reserachers from the Ionian indices and their correlations that lead to University have discovered an early prognosis an early diagnosis of the disease, through tool for Alzheimer’s disease (Reuters) 874 Anzac Parade, Maroubra Junction a hybrid diagnostic protocol based on the (at bus stop, on RTA block) assessment of individual data. Alzheimer’s. The team continued the re- A year ago the scientific research team search further by studying the mitochondr- TTeell:: ((0022)) 99331144--00339933 font La Jaguar, ic!-berlin, discovered the “electric thrombosis” phe- ial membrane superconductor properties Ray ban, Rodenstock, Bolle ban, Rodenstock, Ray [email protected] nomenon, a mechanism that explains a se- and other measurable biological factors ries of dysfunctions, in the inner mem- before coming up with the early diagnosis brane of mitochondria affecting their num- tool for the disease. Maui Jim, Nina Ricci, Oakley ber and operation, largely related with AMNA AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 17/35

“Archaic Colours” at the Acropolis Museum The Acropolis Museum launched earlier this month an initiative aiming to unveil the brightly coloured world of antiquity to the public. Taking advantage of its collection of ar- chaic statues that retain their original colours, the museum will hold a series of events for the next 12 months, including p- resentations, public discussions and activi- ties for kids. Scientific research into the colour found on ancient sculpture has made great progress and reached surprising conclu- sions that to a large degree refute the stereotypical assumptions regarding an- cient sculpture. It turns out that colour, far from being just a simple decorative ele- ment, added to the sculpture’s aesthetic quality. The world of ancient Greece was actual- ly decked out in vibrant colour that little re- sembled the austere white marble figures that usually spring to mind when we think of ancient Greek sculpture and architec- ture. The Acropolis Museum wants to open an extensive discussion with the public and various experts on colour, its technical is- sues, its detection using new technologies, its experimental use on marble surfaces, its digital reconstruction, its meaning, as well as the archaic period’s aesthetic per- ception of colour. The museum’s initiative is based on ob- servation, written sources, spectroscopic Visit: www.theacropolismuseum.gr analysis, special photography sessions, as well as on efforts to reproduce the colours covery - such as an original water colour Museum director Prof Dimitris Panter- six presentations in English and in Greek. of antiquity and apply them on Parian mar- painted by Swiss painter Louis Emile malis stresses that ‘Archaic Colours’ will From September, events will be held twice ble. Gillieron in 1887 of a sculpture just one be interactive and will seek to present the a month in the archaic sculpture gallery Among the tools at its disposal, the mu- year after its discovery, before the expo- museum’s own view on an issue where with individuals specialising in colour. seum will enlist the aid of artists’ rendi- sure to the atmosphere started to destroy there are many diverging opinions. tions of the sculptures soon after their dis- the colours. The activity kicked off on August 7, with (Athens News/ AMNA) Census says legal resident population in Greece fell beneath 10 million The legally resident population of Greece fell beneath 10 million in 2011, according to the results of the 2011 census an- nounced by the Hellenic Statistical Authori- ty (Elstat). Based on the number of registered in- habitants in each municipality in the coun- try, the number of legal residents is 9,903,268, whereas in the 2001 census the number was 10,964,020. However, Elstat stresses that the results of the two cen- suses are not entirely comparable to each other. According to the statistical authority, the difference mostly has to do with the intro- duction of new statistical methodologies West Sector and 394,191 in the South Sec- and with the Kallikratis plan, which has tor. changed the country’s administrative divi- The Piraeus regional unit has a popula- sions. European Union estimates of the tion of 394,454 and the Thessaloniki re- Greek population on January 1, 2011 were gional unit has a population of 878,194 in- significantly higher at 11,329,600 individu- dividuals, of which 269,137 live within the als - a difference partly attributed to the Thessaloniki municipality. reluctance of illegal migrants and citizens Elstat said that the record of the legal fearful of crime to open their doors to cen- population was based on the replies given sus takers. by Greek citizens in the census concerning The biggest concentration of population which municipality they are registered in. is in the centre of Athens, with 750,982 They include Greek nationals in the military people living in the Central Sector of the and in diplomatic missions abroad, as well capital city alone, the number of inhabi- as members of their families permanently tants registered at the Athens municipality resident abroad. rolls being 467,108. A further 446,721 are resident in the North Sector, 386,953 in the (Athens News/ AMNA) AUGUST 2012 18/36 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Arts, Food & Wine Editor: Imogen Coward The Art of Learning Music: part 1

By Dr Imogen Coward*

Music is one of the Ancient Liberal Arts, an essential part of a well-rounded education from Ancient times to today and, arguably, a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human. From birth to death, in happiness and in sad- ness we turn to music whether it to mark an important occasion, or to while away spare time. All too often though, in Australia, as in many Western nations, music is thought of not as something which one simply does (singing while working, singing with our family, singing in church). Rather it is viewed as a discipline requiring the dreaded ‘p’ word “practice “, or an elite and elitist pursuit which is exclusively the realm of highly trained people who have musical talent.

Encouraging a life-long love of music and acquiring skills that allow us to interact musically should be regarded as part of our very being. Just as learning to speak well, to read and to write a language allows us to communicate better with our fellow humans and gives us greater lin- guistic freedom, improving our music skills gives us greater freedom to engage in this fundamental human activity. As many of the Ancients such as Plato noted, and as is evident today in music programmes such as Venezuela’s El Sistema, developing music skills can bring with it added bonuses along the way not only on a per- sonal level, but also on a cultural and social level.

The question of ability and talent In Australia, the first formal opportunity to learn to play an instrument or to sing and develop musical literacy will probably come from taking private music tuition and to some extent, hopefully, from community music groups, pre-school or school education. Sooner or later, the issue launch into learning his/her first language with a grammar the other being ‘D’ and, you guessed it, it was slightly flat. of ability and whether someone has any ‘talent’ for music book and dictionary in hand, but starts by listening atten- The impact of our environment on our musical abilities can usually arises, whether as a proviso for taking music les- tively, the first step in learning music is to listen. be profound and we should be aware of the aural envi- sons, or to sit for exams (or other assessments), or may ronment in which we are immersing ourselves. result from comparison with others who study music. An Today we have such a smorgasbord of music available to unfortunate result of this, and our cultural interest in sep- us, whenever and wherever we want, that our first step The influence of our aural environment is also potentially arating out ‘musicians’ from everyone else, is that there in music learning is easy: feast on plenty of music! Spend of great benefit. In particular, listening repeatedly to a par- are many adults who have grown up with the belief that some time on youtube, check out the many wonderful (and ticular song or piece is perhaps the most important key to they have no musical aptitude, despite (or sometimes as a sometimes weird) performances, go to some concerts. learning music easily and efficiently. The more times we result of) taking music lessons as a child. Every little bit helps open our ears to the amazing and hear a song or piece of music, the more carefully we lis- complex world of music and prepare us to develop our ten and the more we can understand it and remember it One of the greatest educators of the 20th century, the vio- own musical skills. in detail. If we think about our favourite TV show or Radio linist Shinichi Suzuki, brought to prominence the idea that show chances are, we can remember the tune in our head everyone has a marvelous ability to learn music. He It is important, however, to remain discerning so we need and probably also hum or sing it. Every time we listen to emphasised the idea that the key to this ability (and indeed to always aim to get our musical nourishment from artists music, hum a tune or clap a rhythm we’ve heard, we are other abilities ranging from mathematics to calligraphy and music displaying fine musical sense and great beau- exercising and honing some of our inborn musical abilities and poetry) was the process by which our first language, ty. When we are repeatedly exposed to something, it (pitch and rhythm perception, aural pattern recognition, our mother-tongue, is acquired. He observed that being becomes our reference point and the thing we will memory, vocalisation, motor skills to name a few). immersed in a nurturing environment, rich with opportuni- (unthinkingly) emulate. If we think about how each region ties to listen/observe, imitate, and repeat/refine neces- has a particular accent in speech, and how these are The importance of listening doesn’t stop here though. Later sary skills were key aspects of this ability development. passed down, this fact becomes obvious. articles in this series will also investigate how the impact This doesn’t negate the fact that some people, for what- of listening once we learn to play the song we’re listening ever reason, have a ‘head start’ and are regarded as par- Some time ago I was an instrumental tutor working in a to becomes even more significant. By taking time to build ticularly talented. Rather, it states that, given the right envi- school and I noticed a peculiar phenomenon: all the chil- around ourselves the best environment, filling it with the ronment every person can develop their musical abilities dren at this school had a very accurate sense of pitch and finest musicians and the most beautiful music we are off and become a fine musician. could sing and play in tune, except for the note ‘D’ which to a good start in our music learning journey. almost every child always made slightly flat. It was not Every person has inborn musical ability which is worthy of long before I discovered the apparent source of this phe- being brought out through developing their musical skills. nomenon. The school recess chimes, which sounded twice * Imogen Coward holds a PhD in musicology (UNE) A piano teacher I know once stated that if you can walk each day, consisted of two notes: one was an ‘A’ on pitch, She is a musician and accredited music teacher. with a regular gait, by definition you have a sense of rhythm. Similarly, it can be said that if you can distinguish a high sound from a low sound, or recognise a tune, you can perceive and distinguish pitches. If you have acquired the ability to speak a language, your mother-tongue, then FFoooodd && WWiinnee you have a highly developed learning capacity for listen- ing, interpreting, remembering and imitating sounds. These fundamental abilities are the basis of developing a person’s musical abilities. Natures Harvest Shiraz 2011

First steps: Listening is the key Certified organic, this is a great ‘everyday’ red good for both cooking and drinking. Fruity and slightly peppery, Principally, to learn music implies to learn to play an but with an overall mild, refreshing style this Shiraz is both reasonably priced and readily available. A good match instrument or to sing and, alongside this, to acquire reper- for octopus stew, or a hearty rump steak with mushrooms. toire and develop musical literacy (typically, the ability to read and notate (write) music and learning the vocabulary Cost: around $15 used to discuss music). However, just as a baby doesn’t AUGUST 2012 The Greek Australian VEMA TO BHMA 19/37

ALL SAINTS GRAMMAR, NSW SENIOR SCHOOL GREEK THEATRICAL PRODUCTION

On Friday 20th July, and on Sunday 22nd July, students and acting of their role. They took the audience on a jour- lagia Kalogerakis, and Mrs Anastasia Rompies, for their from our Senior School performed the well-known Greek ney back in time to post-war Greece to portray an epoch wonderful support and great work with the children dur- theatrical drama of Iakovos Kambanellis, The Courtyard of that is now gone while exploring themes that are also rel- ing rehearsals and on the performance nights. Miracles - Η Αυλή των Θαυμάτων. evant today. Our students conveyed to the audience the Mr George Comninos, Mrs Frances Hanna, Mr Steve St. The play was set in the 1950s, in a working class sub- central message of the playwright that the play Η Αυλή Clair for the outstanding Stage Production/Props. urb of Athens and focused on the lives of a group of peo- των Θαυμάτων epitomises the miracles of everyday life Miss Arlene Head for her outstanding work with Make- ple whose homes share the same courtyard. This court- and praises the endurance and resilience of the Greek up. yard was a microcosm of Greek society of the time and people who strive to survive in the face of adversity. Mrs Julia Bale for her production of sound effects. the issues and problems that the characters faced repre- The Cast, in order of appearance was as follows: Natal- Mrs Helene Baillie and Lara Baillie for the wonderful sented the various social issues that were prevalent in ie Tsoutsouras, Stavroula Nikolas, Georgios Fountotos, catering on the performance nights. Greek society during this period. Dimitrios Stivaktas, Vassilia Haralampidis, Vicky Orfanos, Miss Maria Plessas for administering the ticket sales on The play explored the following themes: the plight of the Andrea Verteouris, Giorgio Katsifis, Peter Liaskos, Jana performance nights. Greek working class in the 1950s in the urban centres; Ahtypis, Yiangos Kokkinos, Dimitrios Skylitsis, Dimitrios Mrs Antonia Yiangou, Mrs Jenny Polyzogopoulos, Mrs Economic/Political Instability; Urbanisation (the expansion Haralampidis, Nicholas Stavroulakis, Panagiotis Fountotos. Soula Kostakis, Mrs Mary Epsimaris for their assistance. of city boundaries and the movement from rural centres to Congratulations to all the above students who sacrificed A special congratulations to Year 3 student Katerina the bigger cities in the hope of improvement of living con- a great amount of their personal time to work very hard in Kalogerakis for her beautiful design of the advertising fly- ditions, job prospects etc) which in turn marked the huge learning their roles. Their dedication enabled them to de- er. A big thank you also to Mr Nick Miroforidis - Nix Disco architectural change in Greece from the αυλή (courtyard) liver an excellent performance. for providing us with and operating the sound. to the πολυκατοικία (apartment building); Loneliness/ break Special mention also needs to be made of the dedicat- up of family unit; Moral decadence; Migration. ed staff who contributed to the success of this production. P. Varvaressos The students did a wonderful job in the interpretation Mrs Olga Apostolopoulos, Mr Costas Hadjiyiannis, Mrs Pe- Teacher of Classical and Modern Greek WORK AND HOLIDAY VISA TALKS WITH GREECE

The Australian Government will begin negotiations with Greece about establishing a reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangement, the Minister for Immigration and Citi- zenship, Chris Bowen MP, announced earlier this month. Mr Bowen said Australia and Greece shared a strong and rich relationship based on firm community ties. “A work and holiday arrangement recognises the strength of these connections and will further enhance our cultural links between the two countries,” Mr Bowen said. The arrangement would allow young Greeks and Australians aged 18 to 30 years old to enjoy an extended holiday in the guest country. Participants would be able to stay for up to 12 months and engage in short term work and study during that time. The program would have an annual cap on visa num- bers. “Negotiating a work and holiday arrangement, which must be reciprocal and agree- able to both governments, can take time to finalise and implement,” Mr Bowen said. “While we recognise the level of enthusiasm by both Greeks and Australians around a successful outcome, we must ensure all key stakeholders are consulted and the nec- essary administrative arrangements are in place. “This is a significant step, and I would like to thank the Members of Parliament, com- munity leaders and Greek Orthodox community organisations across the country, who have spoken to me about such an arrangement.” Argentina was the latest country to enter a reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangement with Australia, joining a number of other countries, including Bangladesh, Minister for Immigration Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Turkey and the United States. and Citizenship, Further information will be provided on the department’s website www.immi.gov.au, Chris Bowen as developments occur. AUGUST 2012 20/38 TO BHMA The Greek Australian VEMA Travel Ithaca Take the long journey home Odysseus’ native island is as appealing to travelers as his wanderings are symbolic to those seeking the meaning of life

BY H. ARGYROPOULOS the gifts of the Phaeacians, who dropped him off at the bay as- “Keep Ithaca always in your leep. The island’s longest road, mind. Arriving there is what you 25 km, linking Vathy with Kioni, are destined for. But do not hur- in the north, will bring you to Ai- ry the journey at all. Better if it Yiannis, the island’s most beau- lasts for years, So you are old tiful beach, strewn with thick by the time you reach the island, pebbles and with crystal-clear Wealthy with all you have gained waters. Be sure to take enough on the way, Not expecting Ithaca fresh water with you. to make you rich. Ithaca gave Make a small detour to see you the marvelous journey. With- the Katharon Monastery and out her you would not have set stop for coffee at the shaded out.” square in Stavros, further north. The journey of Odysseus, or Another small detour in a north- Ulysses, the Homeric hero and westerly direction will bring you king of Ithaca, who took 10 to Exogi, which offers absolutely years to return home after the superb views of the surrounding Trojan War, and his many mis- islands and the Ionian Sea. adventures inspired thus Alex- Kioni is one of Ithaca’s most andrine poet Constantine Cava- attractive settlements, rebuilt af- fy. The theme of the poem is ter the 1953 earthquake. Its that what people should seek is ches are typical of the Ionian Is- mus. The main village of Vathy is not hard to imagine that this is lands, with picturesque bays in the southern part, built around where Odysseus longed to re- small harbor, once a pirate hide- enjoyment of the journey of life out and now lined with cafes, as well as increasing maturity of and azure waters. The differ- a fjord-like bay, and leaves visi- turn to. The view of the tradition- ence on Ithaca, however, is that tors with a lasting impression as al one- or two-floor houses, restaurants and bars, hosts do- the soul. If such an attitude to- zens of yachts during the sum- ward life can be considered they are all quiet. Even those the boat enters or leaves. It is separated by narrow alleyways, considered developed are not against the background of the mer months. characteristic of cultured souls, Finally, east of Vathy, the win- the visitor to this Ionian island packed with sunbeds and um- green Mt Nerovoulo, adds to the brellas hogging all the best charm. A stroll along the seaside ding road will bring you to two will notice that this is exactly very attractive beaches, Filiatro - what Odysseus’ descendants places. Here, they let you pick y- promenade before sunset is a our own spot before bringing must if you wish to fully appreci- with amazing deep turquoise are - strongly inclined to the arts waters and a mobile canteen and letters. you an umbrella and setting it up ate the tranquillity that Ithaca of- for you. fers. The nearby Cave of the selling refreshments - and Sara- It is therefore not surprising kiniko, a small picturesque har- that Ithaca - known to Greeks as Ithaca comprises two small Nymphs with multicolored sta- pieces of land of about equal lactites is where the Homeric bor. Ithaki - is one of the most civi- ATHENSPLUS lized places to spend a holiday, size and linked by a narrow isth- hero was said to have hidden away from the noise and mad- ding crowds. Despite its rela- tively small size (96 sq. kms), Ithaca in its heyday - around 1000 BC - was the centre of a kingdom which included all the Ionian islands off Greece’s wes- tern coast. Discoveries of Linear A script testify to the inhabitation of the island since prehistoric times. In more recent centuries, Ithaca’s 1 2 3 4 trajectory followed that of neigh- boring Cephalonia, with succes- sive Byzantine, Venetian, Turk- How to get there Where to eat What to see Where to stay ish, French and British occupa- Some people fly to Cephalonia and In Vathy: Paliokaravo, for fresh fish The best way to see the island is In Vathy: Perantzada Art Hotel (tel tions until the Ionian Islands travel to Ithaca by boat; from and traditional dishes; Hani, for su- by its many footpaths. Ithaca is also 33496, www.arthotel.gr), boutique fa- joined free Greece in 1864. Cephalonia airport to Sami port it is perb views and menu variety; Kan- excellent for diving and climbing; cility with superb, elegant design in a Despite extensive archaeolog- 35 km (35 euros by taxi); ferries take touni, simple taverna at the port, with there are also watersports facilities restored 19th-century mansion; Omiri- ical excavations, Odysseus’ Ho- four hours from Patra (twice a day, mainstream Greek dishes and fresh and tennis courts as well as excur- kon Hotel (tel 335 96, www.omirikon- meric capital has not been 12.30 and 8.30 p.m.), two hours from fish - try their chicken in the oven; sions to neighboring islands. In Au- hotel.com), opposite the village (10 found. This may be due to the the mainland port of Astakos and one Kochyli, right on the water off the gust, there is a cultural festival with minutes on foot), attractive rooms, ve- many catastrophic earthquakes hour from Lefkada. There are also coastal road - the meat pie, meatballs artists and orchestras from around ry good service. In Kioni: Captain’s Apartments (tel 314 81, www.cap- that have repeatedly razed man- other connections with Cephalonia. and roast lamb are recommended. In the world. The Archaeological Muse- Patra port: tel 26103.41002, Astakos Kioni: Kalypso, at the marina - excel- um has mostly pre-Classical collec- tains-apartments.gr), rooms with view made structures on the island port: tel 26460.41052, Cephalonia air- lent fresh fish, grilled meats and tions, with ceramic and bronze items and good service. In Frikes: Aristotelis through the centuries. port: tel 26710.29900. Area phone mainstream dishes, don’t miss the dating to the Geometric period, as Apartments (tel 310 79, www. aristo The terrain is craggy, verdant code: 26740. Health center: tel 32222; cod pie with rice. In Platreithias: Ge- well as coins; the Cultural Center’s li- telis-ithaca.gr), attractive, fully equip- and spectacular, ideal for trek- travel agencies: tel 33103/33120; car fyri (tel 31131), international cuisine brary houses rare books, including ped suites, 50 m. from the sea. kers and for exploring archaeo- rental: tel 32840. There is a local bus, and charming decor by Andy and “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” in logical sites and caves. The bea- taxis and sea taxis. Mark - a must. Japanese.