March 2019

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The commencement of Spring is a time of rebirth and change that allows us to envision the endless possibilities that life has to offer. The Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros” is a prime example of this. Originating from humble beginnings, the Brotherhood has blossomed into a force which performs philanthropic endeavors around the world. Your support and dedication is a direct result of our success, and as we continue our mission I’m sure we are capable of even greater feats.

Ikarian Firefighters Funding Drive
Spring is also a reminder of the warm summer months ahead and the start of fire season. As stated in my previous message to you, the Brotherhood has begun a fundraising effort to support the firefighters of Ikaria which will assist in providing them with the equipment and tools they need to effectively perform their duties. We all remember the devastating fires that have impacted Ikaria in the past, and these firefighters are the first line of defense to save lives, land, and property.

I would like to thank the Chapters and individual members who have already supported this drive, and encourage others to assist in this worthy cause. Donations can be made by mailing checks to Supreme Treasurer Evangelos Fragos or through our website at: https://pan-icarian.comproduct/donate/

Supreme Lodge Meeting
Earlier this month the Supreme Lodge held its second meeting of the year in Cherry Hill, NJ. The Lodge was greeted with true Ikarian hospitality and I’d like to thank Chapter Atheras for hosting us. Minutes from the meeting will be available on our website with many items to be presented at the National Convention. Our third and final meeting will be held later this Spring and as always we encourage members to notify us of any topics that you would like discussed.

Final Month of Membership Drive
The 2019 Membership Drive will be coming to a close on April 30th , and I ask that all members submit their per capita payments as soon as possible. A strong membership base has been a key element in the success of the Brotherhood and necessary in ensuring our great organization remains strong. Please support your local Chapters by participating in Chapter events, notifying your District Governors of news/updates, and paying your membership as soon as possible. Thank you for your continued support and dedication! 

In closing, March 25th marked the 198th anniversary of Greece’s Independence from the Ottoman Empire. After nearly 400 years of oppression and hardship, the Greeks came together to fight for their independence. “Freedom or Death” became the motto for the revolution, as the nation fought to rightfully reclaim their homeland.

As we reflect on this historic day, let us pay our respects and honor our ancestors by remembering their sacrifices and carrying on the traditions and heritage that they helped preserve. Staying actively involved in the Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros” is one such way that we can ensure our strong Ikarian heritage and traditions thrive for generations to come.

Ikarian Soldiers in Agios Kirykos - November of 1912. Source: Ikarian Archives
Ikarian Soldiers in Agios Kirykos – November of 1912

Fraternally Yours,
Damianos T. Skaros
President
Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros”

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Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The national officers of the Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros” request your assistance for a vital issue involving the island we all know and love… 

Our Brotherhood has recently received a request from the fire brigade in Ikaria. They are requesting our assistance to purchase specific and basic firefighting equipment; such as breathing apparatuses, respirators, and other tools necessary to help aid their firefighting efforts in Ikaria. 

As many of us know, the geography of the island and lack of life saving equipment makes their job difficult and dangerous. The items they require will help aid their efforts to save lives, land, and property.

In response to their call for assistance, the Supreme Lodge is beginning a fundraising drive to help raise money to benefit the firefighters of Ikaria.

We ask that individuals and chapters help support this effort by donating to this worthy cause, and encourage each chapter to hold a fundraising event to raise proceeds and awareness to benefit this endeavor.

Online Donations can be made through our website at:
https://pan-icarian.comproduct/donate/

Mailed Donations should be sent to our Supreme Treasurer at the following address:
Evangelos Fragos
5312 Bellwood Court 
Wilmington , NC  28412
Checks should be made to Pan-Icarian Brotherhood. Please reference firefighters on the memo line. 

Thank you again for your support and assistance in this worthy effort.

Fraternally yours,
The Supreme Lodge
Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros”