The AHEPAN Fall 2022 - 12

The black granite monument is inscribed with information
about AHEPA's founding and is surrounded by a semi-circular,
three-foot wall. Atop the wall are eight individual plaques, each
bearing the name of one of the founders. Between the wall and
the monument are three flag poles. On the left flies the AHEPA
flag, a gift from AHEPA Global Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
An American flag flies in the middle, a gift from Brother Greg
Steele of Cape Fear Chapter 408, Wilmington, N.C., and the office
of U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC). This flag flew over the United
States Capitol in June 2022. On the right flies the Greek flag, a
gift from the Greek Consulate in Atlanta and Consul Theodoros
Dimopoulos, who attended the ceremony.
Michael Lambros, Jr. served as the dedication's Master
of Ceremonies. Michael's grandfather, Judge Nick Lambros,
served as chairman of AHEPA's 50th Anniversary Celebration
representatives of the founders' families unveiled the name
plaque of their respective founding member. A special moment
occurred when the daughter of founder, George J. Campbell, Mrs.
Virginia Harrington, along with her two children, unveiled her
father's plaque. The dedication concluded with a blessing ceremony
officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta.
A celebration dinner followed the dedication that featured
" Celebrating AHEPA - A Month of Celebrating the Centennial, "
an exhibition of hundreds of archival AHEPA photos. AHEPA Life
Member Nick V. Economy organized the exhibit, which remained
on display through July. More than 350 people attended, including
75 descendants of the founding members that ranged from
grandchildren to great-nephews and nieces to Campbell's daughter,
Harrington. Gloria Boudoucies, daughter of founder, James N.
Vlass, who lives in Milledgeville, Ga., was unable to attend. Other
L to R: Honorary Chairperson Tassopoulos delivers the keynote address. Supreme President Kokotas. SOP Past Supreme President Vourloumis
emceed the celebration gala.
and National Convention held in Atlanta in 1972, which made
Michael's involvement particularly symbolic. Peter Zakas, in
traditional Greek Evzone attire, and retired U.S. Army Captain
Paul Kokenes, both of Atlanta, presented and raised the Greek
and American flags. The Annunciation Cathedral Men's Choir
under the direction of Leon Melissas led in the singing of the
Greek and American National Anthems as the flags were
raised.
Honorary Chairperson Tim Tassopoulos, president and COO
of Chick-fil-A; Supreme President Jimmy Kokotas and Daughters
of Penelope Grand Vice President Georgette Boulegeris, unveiled
the Founding Monument. Following their introductions,
12 | THE AHEPAN · Fall 2022
dignitaries in attendance included Consul Dimopoulos, Honorary
Consul of Cyprus to Atlanta Polyxeni Potter, and AHEPA family
national officers. Anthea Nichols and Elaine Tissura co-chaired
the gala that Sons of Pericles Past Supreme President Gregory
Vourloumis emceed.
Honorary Chairperson Tassopoulos delivered an inspirational
keynote address. He focused his remarks on three recommendations
for AHEPA's next 100 years: first, to honor its history;
second, to lead by serving; and finally, to develop the next generation
of leaders.
The Cathedral of the Annunciation held a Hierarchical
Liturgy officiated by Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta and Bishop
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The AHEPAN Fall 2022

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