On behalf of all Greek Americans, Greek Orthodox Church communities and Hellenic Societies of Philadelphia and the Greater Delaware Valley, we proudly announce our selections as Honorary Grand Marshalls, Mr and Mrs George Kousoulis , in memory of their daughter, Danielle, of the 2015 Philadelphia Greek Independence Day Parade, scheduled for March 22, 2015.
Danielle’s life was tragically taken away at the world trade towers during 9-11.
This is the highest honor afforded by the Philadelphia Federation and is given in honor of one’s unwavering support of Hellenic principles. As Greek Americans worldwide awaken to the need and call for the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas National Shrine, we believe the selection in memory of Danielle is the most appropriate recognition by Greek American communities of the Delaware Valley. From Bethlehem to Wildwood, Wilmington to Flemington, and even internationally the community will answer the call to do more than its share, while inspiring others in fundraising awareness for this most sacred site.
A sampling of recent honorary Grand Marshalls range from philanthropists Nick and Athena Karabots, television weather anchor John Bolaris, HANC President Paul Kotrotsios, AHEPA Supreme President Nick Karacostas, renowned pharmacist Dr. Spiros Spireas to former United States Congress representative Zack Space.
This year’s parade theme will be the rebuilding of Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church at Ground Zero, as work has begun in earnest over the rebuilding of the only house of worship destroyed at Ground Zero during the tragic events of 9-11.
This press releases to the worldwide Greek community announces this historic honor of the memory of Danielle, and the cause of rebuilding St. Nicholas will be center stage of one of the oldest and largest Greek Independence Day parades in the United States.
We hope you will attend the parade on the Ben Franklin Parkway on March 22, 2015.
It is also our pledge that we will also schedule a Delaware Valley fundraiser for St. Nicholas National Shrine in memory of Danielle.
Very simply, it is our goal to highlight and promote all that Danielle represents.
As additional honorees in the field of civil service, Marshals include Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District and Congressman Bob Brady of Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District, which includes Philadelphia.
We look forward to seeing you in Philadelphia on March 22, 2015 as well as throughout that weekend.
Sincerely,
Stathis Karadonis Dimitrios Rozanitis
President Chair, Board of Trustees
Nikos Spiliotis George G. Horiates
Vice President Parade Co-Chair
