Omega Chapter 371
The History of Omega
Writing or reviewing the accomplishments of a chapter for twenty-five years in the service of its community, church, or order is an extremely difficult task. However, the growing interest in the Order of AHEPA has provided ample reason for this endeavor. A more personal reason for the members of the Omega Chapter is the record of those dedicated members and their struggle and sacrifices to steer the projects of this chapter for the good of our Hellenic community and the Order of AHEPA.
To better understand this, one must review some of AHEPA's objectives:
- To promote and encourage loyalty to the United States of America.
- To instruct its members in the tenets and fundamental principles of government, and in the recognition and respect of the inalienable rights of mankind.
- To instill in its membership a due appreciation of the privileges of citizenship.
- To encourage its members to always be profoundly interested and actively participating in the political, civic, social, and commercial fields of human endeavor.
- To pledge its members to do their utmost to stamp out any and all political corruption and to arouse its members to the fact that tyranny is a menace to the life, property, prosperity, honor, and integrity of every nation.
- To promote a better and more comprehensive understanding of the attributes and ideals of Hellenism and Hellenic culture.
- To promote good fellowship and endow its members with the perfection of the moral sense.
- To endow its members with a spirit of altruism, common understanding, mutual benevolence, and helpfulness.
- To champion the cause of education and to maintain new channels for facilitating the dissemination of culture and learning.
When AHEPA was established, it was founded on the principle to inculcate its members with particular lessons or virtues, as other organizations have done for hundreds of years. Over time, as the original teachings of the fraternity lost some of their importance, AHEPA transformed into an institution of "all things to all men." Today, AHEPA continues to champion the cause of Americanism and the general education of its members in good government. It also asserts itself in the international field of human endeavor by supporting worthy worldwide causes and seeking to marshal active service and world opinion for oppressed and downtrodden peoples.
Examples of this commitment include the crises in Cyprus and its refugee problem, the rightful cause of Greece and the Aegean Islands, and the concern for the safety of the Patriarchate. Contributions to national and international causes are numerous, alongside the many local activities of our chapters within their communities.
AHEPA brings man to the center of his universe and seeks to arouse mankind to the realization that tyranny, wherever it may exercise its baneful power, is a menace to life, property, prosperity, honor, and integrity of every nation. AHEPA is non-partisan but deeply concerned with political affairs, supporting those who are true patriots. The organization also values education, focusing on right thinking and distinguishing between the counsel of artful demagogues and genuine statesmen.
This mission drives AHEPA to marshal the finer impulses and capabilities of Hellenes in America, serving the institutions of the country and fostering the appreciation of culture and learning.
Early History and Formation
In January 1950, Brothers PSG A. Lingon (deceased), PDT N. Stergiotis (deceased), and PDG Harry J. Pulos filed a petition with the Supreme Lodge to create a new chapter in Detroit. This new chapter, named "Omega," was established to serve the eastern section of Detroit. The charter members were initiated in March 1950 at the AHEPA Temple on Davenport Street, with PST S. V. Seckles presiding.
The early years were marked by hard and dedicated work from its membership. Projects included helping in the erection of the Church building, organizing many fundraisers, and co-sponsoring projects with the Church Council. One notable achievement was securing the remaining funds to pour the cement floor of the Church in time for the Feast of the Assumption on August 15, 1953.
Notable Accomplishments and Events
Omega Chapter has seen periods of both activity and decline. In the early years, it organized a Daughters chapter, participated in district and national programs, and initiated numerous projects for the community. The chapter faced challenges during the Detroit riots of 1967-68, losing many records and experiencing a drop in membership. Despite these challenges, the chapter continued to thrive, thanks to the dedication of its members.
Significant projects and activities from 1958-1961 include:
- Organizing the Sons Chapter.
- Co-sponsoring many community events with Detroit area AHEPA Chapters.
- Participating in national and district sports tournaments.
- Hosting a national bowling tournament.
- Acquiring chapter officers' jewels.
- Co-sponsoring family projects with the Thamyris Chapter.
- Presenting the first scholarship and scholastic awards.
- Sponsoring the first program to pave the Church parking lot.
- Initiating Memorial Day services.
- Electing its first District Governor, James Palmer.
- Appointing Lambros Milonas to the AHEPA National Advisory Board of the Sons of Pericles.
Past Presidents of Omega Chapter
Here is a list of all past presidents of Omega Chapter:
- 1950-1951: Andrew P. Johnson
- 1952: Mick Sardelis
- 1953: Chris W. Charouhis
- 1954: Arthur Jatros
- 1955: Daniel Poulfos
- 1956: Arthur Jatros
- 1957: Peter K. Pappas
- 1958-1959: James Palmer
- 1960: Lambros Milonas
- 1961: Harry J. Pulos
- 1962: Nondas J. Carres
- 1963: Dr. Charles Milenas
- 1964-1965: Dean Moraitis
- 1966: George Petrouleas
- 1967: Harry J. Pulos
- 1968-1969: Nondas J. Carres
- 1970-1972: George Panos
- 1973: Louis Pisley
- 1974: Milton A. Gust
- 1975: Spero Theros
Past Governors and District Officers from Omega Chapter
Here is a list of all past governors from Omega Chapter:
- James Palmer
- Lambros Milonas (Member of the National Advisory Board, Sons of Pericles)
- Harry J. Pulos (District Governor, National Advisory Board Chairman, Sons of Pericles)
- George Petrouleas (District Athletic Advisor)
- Milton A. Gust (District Scholarship Chairman)
Rebuilding and Growth
The chapter continued to grow and rebuild through the 1970s, with projects like:
- Participating in the Old World Market of the International Institute.
- Participating in the Detroit Ethnic Waterfront Festival.
- Contacting Congressmen regarding the Cyprus vote.
- Collecting and distributing clothing and supplies to Cyprus.
- Returning to ritualistic meetings.
- Re-activating the scholarship and scholastic awards.
- Participating in AHEPA Sons tournaments.
- Re-activating the Past-President's dinner.
- Co-hosting the Detroit 1973 District Convention.
- Holding visitations by National and District Lodge officers.
- Participating in city elections.
Silver Anniversary
The year 1975 was devoted to celebrating the chapter's 25th anniversary, with events honoring past presidents and members. The chapter received its highest membership since the 1960s and continued to meet at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial Building every second Wednesday of the month.
During the year 1976, the chapter broke ground on Phase 1 of the Senior Housing Project. The Omega Chapter's housing was nurtured and developed by a dedicated board of many members. In the 1980s, members of the chapter moving into the suburbs of Sterling Heights at St. John's formed the Aegean Chapter, in which many members of the chapter who now resided at St. John's joined the newly formed Aegean.
Having had a good fortune with the housing, Omega broke ground on Phase 2 in 2004. Blessed with 175 units, the Chapter really began to push forward, albeit with a smaller and dedicated chapter. In 2009, the chapter began a shift into much more philanthropic endeavors, supporting major initiatives like the St. Constantine and Helen Iconography, Assumption Iconography, St. Nicholas Shrine in New York, Leadership 100, the Patriarchal Bartholomew Fund, as well as supporting its family of 5 churches, St. Johns, St. George Southgate, St. Constantine and Helen, and Annunciation Cathedral.
During the 2020 pandemic, many of the chapters were in trouble. Omega gave each chapter in District 10 men and women 6k each to support the chapters during a period of no fundraising to allow for the District to recover.
During this era, Omega Chapter has been shaped by the tireless efforts of many dedicated members who have gone above and beyond in service to their community, their Church, and the Order of AHEPA. These individuals, often referred to as the "Heroes of Omega," exemplify the core values of Hellenism, philanthropy, education, and civic responsibility. Their contributions have helped build and sustain the chapter for decades, guiding it through periods of growth, challenge, and renewal.
Spero Theros and George Petrouleas – The Housing Advocate.
Spero Theros helped to guide Omega during the era of the early days of the housing alongside George Petrouleas and his brother Chris Petrouleas. Without their stewardship in the early days, the chapter and housing would not be where it is today. Spero served as District Governor and George as District Athletic Director. Spero's son Louie Theros would also follow and serve for many years in the chapter's housing project.
Jim Koukios would also serve during this period on the chapter in various positions including president.
Lou Pavledes since 2009 has served as an honored secretary and dedicated member of the chapter and Greek community who has been instrumental in the 2000s for the chapter.
George Gazepis – The Financial Steward
For over 30 years, George Gazepis served as the treasurer of Omega Chapter, embodying loyalty and steadfast commitment. His work ensured the chapter’s financial stability, allowing Omega to fund scholarships, support local parishes, and provide assistance to countless community members. Gazepis’ expertise in managing the chapter’s funds contributed to the growth and success of Omega, making him one of the most essential figures in its history. His behind-the-scenes work may not have been glamorous, but it was crucial to keeping the chapter afloat during difficult times.
Lazaros "Lou" Kircos – The Religious Pillar
Lazaros Lou Kircos has long been a beacon of leadership in both Omega Chapter and the Greek Orthodox community. As Regional Commander for the Archons of the Metropolis of Detroit, Kircos’ contributions to the Church and AHEPA are unparalleled. His work on Church committees and leadership roles within AHEPA have made him a linchpin in fostering the chapter’s relationship with local parishes. Kircos was instrumental in establishing philanthropic efforts such as annual donations to area churches and spearheading Omega’s religious outreach. His dedication to the faith and community is a source of inspiration for all Omega members. Additionally, his incredible work with the housing is the secret to the success of the chapter's housing project in recent years.
John Hatzis – The President
As a past president of Omega Chapter serving for 30 years, John Hatzis led by example, focusing on the chapter’s philanthropic mission. Under his leadership, Omega expanded its charitable efforts, including scholarships and annual donations to local parishes. Hatzis worked tirelessly to foster strong relationships with other Detroit-area Greek Orthodox churches, ensuring that Omega remained a vital part of the religious and cultural fabric of the city. John currently serves on the National AHEPA Educational Foundation.
The chapter however faced an age question. With dwindling membership, there was concerns about the long term. The chapter looked towards uplifting its youth. In 2022, longtime President John Hatzis and Longtime Treasurer George Gazepis stepped down from their official roles and gave positions to a then 19 year old James Thomas and 22 year old Steven Brylinski. The chapter elected James Thomas to the presidency and Steven Brylinski as treasurer. Since 2022, Omega went from around 40 members to 86 members most of the membership now being under the age of 30. The chapter's gambit with the youth coupled with their generous nature, led to the chapter being awared the national chapter of the year at the Las Vegas National Convention in 2023. Then Chapter President James Thomas and Past President John Hatzis addressed the convention with a call for youth to take the ropes and lead.
Since 2020, the chapter has elected several members into the district leadership,
Petros Besieris as Governor 2022-23, Steven Brylinski as Secretary 2022-23, James Thomas as Treasurer in 2023 and District Governor in 2024, Merek Vincent as Treasurer in 2024, Nikolai Sergeev as Secretary in 2024, Othonas Econompoulos as Marshal in 2023 and Lieutenant Governor in 2024.
Several young members have taken the lead in the chapter such as Spyros Politis and Arisitidis Thomas who serve as chairs of the Chapter's Youth Committee.
The chapter hosted the 2024 District Convention in Traverse City Michigan and in 2023 hosted the Kalanda Greek night where over 20 AHEPANS and Daughters were initiated that night alone. The Chapter is hosting the Traverse City Convention in 2025 in celebration of their 75 years as a chapter in District 10. The Chapter has come a long way since 1950 and the hope is the next 25 years continue to be a great story for the chapter in its long term goals at the 100 year anniversary.