Berlin, NJ – It was an evening filled with great pride at the annual dinner dance of the Cyprus Society of Greater Philadelphia (Makarios III). Two events highlighted the evening, the Cypriot Dancers of Greater Philadelphia dancing and the honoring of Consul General of Cyprus in NYC, Koula Sofianou.
Sofianou’s tenure of four years was coming to a close and the Philadelphia metropolitan Greek community came out to thank her and wish her well. She was presented with the Leadership Award by the Cyprus Society of Greater Philadelphia. Sofianou traveled often to Philadelphia where she developed a warm and friendly relationship with the Greek community. She often spoke of her fondness for the preservation of language, especially at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox church in Upper Darby, where she frequented. She participated in the Greek Independence day parade and was a visible presence at many dances and festivals in the area.
Following the awards ceremony, the Cypriot Dancers of Greater Philadelphia embraced Sofianou, before taking the dance floor. They performed original Cypriot folk dances while photos recorded the moments. Beaming Greeks and Cypriots then took the dance floor.
The Philadelphia Greek and Cypriot community thanks Consul General of Cyprus, Koula Sofianou and wishes her well with future endeavors. She will be missed.