Federation of Sterea Hellas New York holds annual Vasilopita cutting and luncheon

On January 11 in Astoria, around 30 members and guests attended the Federation of Sterea Hellas New York's annual Vasilopita cutting and luncheon at Loukoumi Taverna. Leaders spoke, two awards were presented, and donations were announced toward an ambulance fund in Nafpaktos.

The New York Division of the Federation of Sterea Hellas held its annual Vasilopita cutting and luncheon on January 11 at Loukoumi Taverna in Astoria. The event began just after 2 PM and drew about 30 members, guests, and friends from New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and beyond. Leaders of the Federation gave remarks about connecting members and engaging younger generations. The gathering included prayers, the blessing and cutting of the vasilopita, and a communal meal. Event highlights: - The Federation's New York Governor John Nikolopoulos spoke and led the vasilopita cutting; he has led the New York District for 15 years. - Supreme President John Tsigas of Cleveland addressed the group, emphasizing passing traditions to youth and improving communication channels. - Two awards were presented to Antonios Seretis and Theofanis Tsiamtsouris in recognition of their contributions. - Donations were announced: $500 from John and Peggy Nikolopoulos on behalf of Bay Ridge Bakery and $1,000 from the Nafpaktian Brotherhood to support purchase of an ambulance van in Nafpaktos; more than $22,000 has been raised toward that goal as of January 2026. - Father Vasileios led a prayer and blessed the vasilopita before it was cut and shared. Summary: The luncheon reinforced community connections and highlighted efforts to engage younger members while modernizing communications. The event also advanced ongoing fundraising for an ambulance in Nafpaktos and took place ahead of the Federation's 80th anniversary, which the organization noted as an upcoming milestone.