January/February 2003

CATHEDRAL DANCE GROUPS GEAR UP FOR FDF

It’s that time of year again: frenzied practises, (last minute) team registration forms, detailing on the costumes--we’re gearing up for FDF. The Cathedral will be sending three teacms to Anaheim where the Folk Dance Festival will take place at the Anaheim Hilton February 14-17: Kymata, directed by Irene Kyriacou, Lea Lyberopoulos, and Athena Stavrakaras; Filadelfakia, directed by Mina Tsatsaronis and Elpida Stavrakaras; and Angelakia, under the direction of Michael Garibaldi and Leah Stavrakaras. We wish our groups well as they go to this year’s competition.

Meanwhile, a number of issues have surfaced this year (not unlike in past years) having to do with parents being pledged members of the parish (an absolute must); attendance in Sunday School (also required, 75% of the time); and the elimination of certain children from competition, either because of ability or attendance at dance practices. The rules governing our dance program are being reviewed with a view to making them conform to the general rules which govern all our youth programs and, indeed, the spirit which we endeavor to foster as a church community.

GOYA BUSY DOING STUFF

Our young people have been busy meeting, studying, and doing things together. On December 21, some 20 youngsters gathered at the Stavrakaras home, where they practiced for Christmas caroling the following day. GOYA thanks those parishioners who opened their homes to our young people and gave them an opportunity to extend Christmas greetings in person. On Wednesday, January 8, our youth will meet at the Cathedral, at 7 p.m. On January 24, following the Crab Feed, the youth will meet at “Crab Cove,” a/k/a the alcove between the Chapel and the Korinthias Center and clean up after the event.

On Friday, March 28, our young people will attend the Third Saluations at 7 p.m. and participate in a “lock-in.” Together with their advisors and other adult chaperons, they will spend the night without eating, giving the money instead to feed hungry people. They will also review a popular movie, discuss issues of concern to teenagers, and enjoy one another’s fellowship, before retiring. The following morning, they will be treated to breakfast and go their way. On Sunday, March 30, the youth groups will, together with the Philoptochos and the Parish Council, sponsor a mini-glendi following the Greek Independence Day Parade.

COME AND SUPPORT OUR BASKETBALL TEAMS

Our 2003 Junior Varsity Schedule for Annunciation games is as follows:

The players and coaches would appreciate it if you would take the time to attend as few or as many of their games as you are able to during the season.