By: Aphrodite Kotrotsios, Co-Publisher
United Greek-Americans (UGA) is uniting Greek-Americans across the world with their fun-filled weekend getaways. Founded in 2010 by Deano Katsis, UGA is the place to be every holiday weekend. With the purpose of preserving Hellenic culture, UGA plans weekend getaways Greek style. Greek music, Greek dancing, and a Greek family atmosphere make up UGA events.
Deano Kastis told Hellenic News of America (HNA) that the idea came about while he was in the nightclub business. He was hosting a block party one night and a few of his friends were visiting from out of town and said to Deano, “Imagine if all these people were Greeks.” The rest is history. Deano formed UGA in his mind and turned it into a reality. UGA has transformed from a local event to an international event.
“The friendships and bonds that are cultivated from these weekend events, truly makes UGA special. The purpose of UGA is to preserve our Hellenic culture because, unfortunately, many of the once thriving Greek cultural centers, events, and activities have diminished over time. UGA is able to appeal to Greek-Americans globally and remind them of the important aspects of our culture. It’s difficult to balance the everyday stresses and obligations of personal, school and work life. There should be something fun to look forward to that is truly enjoyable. Many of us have found this through UGA,” said Deano. UGA is truly one of a kind.
UGA recently held its Memorial Day Weekend party in Clearwater, FL. With over 1,000 Greek-Americans, the event was truly a success. UGA’s next event will be held on Labor Day Weekend, September 4-7, 2015 in Chicago, IL. The process of signing up is very simple. Just reserve a room at the official UGA weekend hotel.
“There is no better way than to spend a weekend with like-minded individuals raised with the same history, culture, traditions and values with the weekend’s main purpose of having fun. Join us for a weekend of a lifetime! New memories created along with a lifetime of friendships!”
Follow UGA on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates on upcoming events.
