Philadelphia, PA – The St. George Cathedral 2nd Annual Golf Classic raised more than $5.000, surpassing last year’s grand total. The event, hosted on Wednesday at the Franklin Torresdale Country Club, brought out some 54 golfers, up some 25 percent from last year.
Nearly 50 sponsors, both corporate and public donors from the Delaware Valley contributed to the success of the event. The funds were raised for the restoration of St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Old City Philadelphia.
Following the 18 hole round, the golfers were treated to a cocktail reception and dinner. There, Nick Yiantsos of the Greek American Heritage Society of Philadelphia spoke about the importance of St. George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral history as a cornerstone of Hellenism in Philadelphia.
During dinner, the event also honored philanthropist and CEO of Cedar Farms, Gus Pahides. Pahides who has been a member of St. George Cathedral for 53 years has served as Vice President and President of the Parish Council of St. George. Gus and his family own and operate Cedar Farms and the Liberty Bell Steak Company. Among Gus’ many honors is the Gold Cross of the Holy Sepulcher, presented by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. He has four children and 12 grandchildren.
John Countoudis and John Sarkioglu presented the lifetime achievement award for his dedication to St. George Greek Orthodox church and his dedication to the Greek community of Philadelphia. Countoudis and Sarkioglu, both lifetime friends of Pahides remarked on their lives as Greek-Americans and Pahides influence any generosity. Pahides thanked the attendees and later sat for a photo with his family.
Prizes and flags were also given out to the golfers and donors. Many of the holes were raffled off, along with longest putt. Best overall scores for teams were awarded and then flags from each hole handed out. The flags at each hole were sponsored by various business’ from around the Philadelphia metropolitan area and were decorated by Marina Panou Graphic Multimedia.