Cherry Hill, NJ – This past Wednesday, a large group of friends and relatives of Mr. Christos Criaris held an informal belated celebration, in honor of his birthday. Christos, a palikari of 100 years, his wife Roula, and immediate family graced this surprise celebration at the Danielle Kousoulis Culture Center.
Members of the church and the Kali Parea group were in attendance, including Father Christoforos Oikonomidis, who gave the invocation, Jerry Karapalidis, the spokesman of the informal Kali Parea, a group of retirees, and Jerry Hanno, Chairman of the Senior Citizens of the St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church community. Luncheon was served, courtesy of the Kali Parea, which included a happy 100th birthday cake with a century-size candle.
The birthday boy Christos was very pleased with the surprise. He thanked everyone, wished them all the best of health, and added that he’s personally counting on another 20 years – at least!