 Dear Sisters & Brothers,I hope this message finds you and your family safe during this pandemic. As many of you already know; Ikaria, Samos, and the surrounding region were impacted by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey yesterday. Our prayers go out to those affected, and the Brotherhood has reached out to the Island for information on the impacts. The year 2020 has truly been an usual and disruptive year for us all, and while we face these challenges together I’m confident that better days are not too far ahead. While we are unable to routinely meet, the Supreme Lodge’s goal is keep our members actively engaged during these trying times. I’d like to offer a special thanks to our District Governors who have been in close communication with members and chapter representatives; providing news and updates from the Lodge and Chapters throughout the nation.I’d like to share a few highlights that have occurred since my last correspondence: 2020 Year End Meeting As a result of the COVID-19 impacts, last month, the Supreme Lodge and Foundation hosted our first ever electronic year end meeting. It was a great success with over 150 members in attendance. While this event was no substitute to our national convention, it was an opportunity for us to explore new technological resources while also keeping our members informed and engaged. Our hope is to host future electronic events, ones which members are able to directly participate. More information will be provided in the coming months and I look forward to hearing from you all. New Chapter Formulation: “Kountouma” – New England I’m proud to announce the formation of yet another chapter within the Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros”, named Kountouma which is based out of Boston Massachusetts. I recently traveled to Boston for the Chapter’s first event, and was thoroughly impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of its members. The creation of a new chapter is always a great achievement, the fact that this has occurred in the midst of a pandemic is even more impressive. I’d like to thank the chapter for their warm Ikarian hospitality, and welcome them to our great organization. Halloween has always been a special time and one of my favorite holidays. While many of our plans have been canceled this year, I encourage members to take this time to learn some of the history, legends and mystery of our beloved island. Many of my favorite memories are those of my father & mother sharing legends and ghost stories based on mythology and lore surrounding Ikaria and our great culture. I’m sure you’ll be surprised at the variety of tales that exist, ranging from mythological beasts and gods, to pirates and buried treasure. This is yet another way we can pass on our history, love and interest in the island we care so dearly for…ensuring it stays alive for generations to come. Happy Halloween and thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros”. Fraternally Yours, Damianos T. Skaros Supreme President Pan-Icarian Brotherhood of America “Icaros” |
- Since 1903