Oia children send message of hope from Santorini
At a time when the entire country is in the grips of gloom, coming across a kind of Greece that still holds promise of a different future is more than welcome.
This is the kind of spirit one comes across at the elementary school of Oia, on the Cycladic island of Santorini, which faces the caldera.
At the specially designed, children-friendly classrooms, pupils sit and read on colorful cushions, and learn in a fun way at interactive blackboards.
The elementary school?s parents association, pupils and teachers recently organized a celebration, on the day of the Raising of the Holy Cross (Ypsosi tou Timiou Stavrou), in order to pay tribute to Aristides Alafouzos, president of Kathimerini SA.
Alafouzos, an Oia native, has long supported the educational establishment in a variety of ways. At the school?s premises, the low-key affair drew a huge crowd which gathered in the school courtyard. Antonis Boundolas, the school?s principal, opened the event and thanked Alafouzos for his contribution and ongoing support.
Vikentia Passari, president of the school?s parents association, paid homage to Oia, referring to it as the world?s ?most popular destination.?
?Everyone wants to come here, from all the corners of the earth, to admire the uniqueness, the sunset, the architecture and the island?s able seamen. During the frenzied high-tourist season, however, they are unable to admire and discover the unique qualities of its residents, who are proud of their origins wherever they may be. People who will do anything for their homeland. Amongst them, one man stands out, both for the pride he feels for the land and for his contribution; this man is Aristides Alafouzos,? said Passari.
Besides having earned recognition worldwide, Alafouzos is a ?fellow villager? who has always stood by the village of Oia, helping its people, noted Passari. At Christmas he wins over children?s hearts with his generous presents, though, that is not the whole story, she said.
?As parents and children we are proud of this man who serves as an example of selfless giving,? noted Passari, who presented Alafouzos with an honorary plaque.
Speeches were also delivered by Epifanios, Metropolitan of Thira, Amorgos and the islands and Santorini Mayor Anastasios Zorzos.
Visibly moved, Alafouzos talked about Oia as well as the school?s progress. The highlight of the event was when a group of children surrounded him and presented him with small bouquets of lillies. A pure and honest act of love at a time of great pessimism.
