Friends of the Gennadius Library Gather for Kathara Deftera at The Water Club
Catia Chapin, Georgia Ciaputa, Maria Georgopoulou, Juanita Simmons (left to right).
Despite the bitter cold and strong winds, friends of the Gennadius Library gathered in full force at The Water Club on February 23rd for the 15th Annual Kathara Deftera Benefit, the Library’s primary fundraising event in the U.S. The new venue, located right on the water, was spectacular and reminded everyone of their time in Greece and the promise of warmer weather to come. Kathara Deftera, or Clean Monday, marks the start of Lent in the Greek Orthodox calendar, and a special Lenten meal was prepared by Chef Aaron Bashy of The Water Club, in collaboration with Diane Kochilas. A silent auction with eight exciting lots offered exclusive tours of world-famous museums by leading experts, unique works of art and jewelry, Greek wines, and opportunities to dine at the finest Greek restaurants in New York City. The evening’s musical entertainment was provided by Gregory Maninakis and his band, including Glafkos Kontemeniotis and Kostas Psarros. Chairman of the Gennadius Library Overseers Alexander Zagoreos welcomed the guests and introduced Ambassador Georgios Iliopoulos, the Consul General of Greece, who expressed great pleasure at being able to support the event as well as deep gratitude to the Library and the ASCSA for enriching the cultural and intellectual life of Athens and Greece. Ambassador Vasilios Philippou, Consul General of Cyprus, was also in attendance and praised the Library for its role in preserving the Hellenic tradition. The Library would like to thank all the co-chairs, benefactors, patrons, and friends for making this event possible. All proceeds from the evening will support the general operating fund of the Library. Read the related story in the National Herald.