Latest news with #GreekAmerican
Business Mayor
18-05-2025
- Health
- Business Mayor
Ikaria island diet helps a third of locals live past 90 – how to do it
The island diet has some key ingredients and eating methods that can lend itself to more healthy years (Image: GETTY) Located in the eastern Aegean, the small Greek island of Ikaria is home to a mere 8,000 full-time residents. Despite its modest population, the island boasts one of the world's highest life expectancies. An impressive one-third of the population lives beyond the age of 90, while the entire island enjoys lower rates of chronic diseases compared to other parts of the world. Reaching the age of 100 is not uncommon among the island's residents. Researchers have attributed the Ikarians' remarkable longevity to several factors, including exercise and frequent napping as an integral part of daily life. The islanders also place a strong emphasis on social and family ties, despite their relatively small population. However, their diet is likely the most significant contributor to their remarkable longevity. The scenic island is part of the Blue Zone, where people are more likely to live to 100 and beyond (Image: GETTY) Greek American chef Diane Kochilas, who has family roots on the island and spends half the year living there, explores the Ikarian diet in her cookbook, The Ikaria Way. In an interview with the BBC prior to the book's release last year, Kochilas explained that the key to the Ikarian diet lies not only in the ingredients used but also in the love and care with which meals are prepared. Read More 'Appalling' NI gynaecology waits under rapid review She noted: 'I think that one of the things that always surprises me is just the level of stress that people accept. In the US, stress is so detrimental, and most of it is in our own heads and thought patterns. Food is also love'. The Ikarian diet bears a strong resemblance to the Mediterranean diet, known for its longevity benefits. It emphasises healthy fats, high fibre, whole foods and is predominantly plant-based. Olive oil is the primary source of added fat, while items like fish, poultry and red wine are consumed in moderation. Red meat is even less frequent, making an appearance only a few times a month. Moreover, many inhabitants of the island adhere to the Greek Orthodox Church's fasting calendar, abstaining from certain foods such as meat during specific periods, like Lent. Beans, surprisingly, play a vital role in The Ikaria Way and have become a staple in Blue Zone diets. The chef encouraged people to 'eat beans and live longer', highlighting that good quality beans can be found anywhere in the world. The chef praised the health benefits of beans, noting that they're also easy to find (Image: GETTY) This phrase was originally coined by longevity expert Dan Buettner, who famously suggested that consuming one cup of beans daily could prolong a person's life by four years. The claim isn't completely unfounded. A 2004 study foundthat people who ate at least 20 grams per day could add around eight years to their lifespan. It may also help with weight loss, another preventable factor increasing your risk of a range of mortality causes. A 2016 review found people that ate 255grams, around nine ounces, of beans each day for six weeks lost more weight than people who didn't eat beans. Read More Assisted dying plans for terminally-ill approved on Jersey Diane further explained: 'Bean consumption aids heart health by lowering cholesterol because beans are rich in soluble fibre. This attaches to cholesterol particles and flushes them out of the body.'
Chicago Tribune
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
Talking about mythology in the musical ‘Hadestown': ‘It's a sad song / But we sing it anyway'
With the national tour of 'Hadestown' currently back in Chicago for a two-week run, theater presenter Broadway in Chicago partnered with the National Hellenic Museum to host a panel discussion on Thursday about the Greek mythology behind the Tony Award-winning musical. Moderated by museum publicist Elizabeth Niarchos Neukirch, the event featured three cast members from the touring production in conversation with Krishni Burns, a classics and senior Mediterranean studies lecturer at the University of Illinois Chicago. Located in Chicago's Greektown neighborhood, the National Hellenic Museum has a mission to share Greek history, art, culture and the Greek American story. Greek mythology is at the heart of 'Hadestown,' Anaïs Mitchell's folk-inspired reimagining of two classic tales: the ill-fated journey of young dreamer Orpheus to the Underworld to rescue his beloved Eurydice, and the complicated romance between Hades and Persephone, which has turbulent effects on the natural world. As Burns noted, these myths have been around for about 3,000 years and have continued to 'accrue meaning' through countless retellings. 'We keep on telling these stories because they remain relevant,' she said. 'They help us explore ideas, express emotions and really delve into a depth of experience that we otherwise have a hard time accessing until we're in the midst of it and don't know how to deal with it. So, this is a place to grow as human beings through these stories.' Although the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice is famously tragic, 'Hadestown' tells it with a sense of bittersweet hope. Near the end of the show, Hermes — the messenger god who acts as narrator — sings, 'It's a sad song / But we sing it anyway.' In spoken verse, Hermes adds, ''Cause here's the thing: To know how it ends / And still begin to sing it again / As if it might turn out this time.' Jaylon C. Crump, who plays Hermes in the touring cast, finds a lot of meaning in this outlook. 'I think that it is just like a 'life imitates art' moment with me, personally, about how I view the world,' they said. 'I feel like I wake up with (renewed) hope every single day, and I think that the show has really taught me that.' Crump also believes that audiences resonate with this message. 'With how the world is right now, the story of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone is so much more relevant now than it's ever been. And I think that a lot of people leave the show with a newfound resilience and hope that they may have lost or may be trying to find again.' As a swing who covers eight of the show's 13 roles, Julia Schick experiences the story of 'Hadestown' from a different perspective nearly every time she performs. 'I think for me, the core of the show is about love and the different ways that people show their love and the lengths that you will go to for love — not just love for others, but love for your work and love for yourself,' said Schick. 'And as someone who is pursuing my passion, while it can be difficult traveling all over the country, it is not something I want to give up. I get to wake up every day and do what I love, and the lengths I would go for this love are astronomical.' Katelyn Crall plays one of the Fates, the three female figures from Greek mythology who represent the role of destiny in the individual lives of mortals. In her view, the fallibility of the show's characters makes the story feel true-to-life. 'I don't think there really is a good guy in 'Hadestown.' Every one of the characters has intrinsic faults and makes almost fatal mistakes,' she said. 'Why do we still root for them? It's a very, very interesting thing,' Crall continued. 'It also plays (on) the fact that all humans are intrinsically flawed and we're always fighting our own demons, and to mistake, to err, is human. And I think that's what makes 'Hadestown' so relatable, and that's why we keep on getting drawn to it, because everyone sees themselves in these characters even though they make really bad choices a lot of the time.' The humanity of these characters, even those who are technically gods, also comes through in the personalized way that actors approach their roles. 'The good thing about 'Hadestown' is that they really want you to bring yourself to the character,' said Crump, who is the youngest and first nonbinary actor to play Hermes. Their version of Hermes is 'completely genderless,' which is communicated through minor changes in the text, and has more of a peer-to-peer than parental relationship with Orpheus since they are similar ages. As a self-described 'dark-skinned Black queer person,' Crump also spoke to the importance of representation and bringing their authentic self to the stage. 'I'm giving the audience a piece of myself, and sometimes that audience doesn't want it — we're in different states, different political climates — but I'm giving it to you, and whether you receive it or not is on you.' Crump added that they have received a warm reception 'from so many people, especially members of the LGBTQ community. I've gotten so many messages from teenagers, from kids, from adults, from so many people of color, who have told me, 'I'm so glad that I was able to see somebody that looked like me on stage, and it's so inspiring.'' The current touring cast recently gave its 200th performance, but Crall, Crump and Schick show no signs of waning enthusiasm for this story. The tour will go on hiatus after the Chicago run, but 'Hadestown' will return to cities across the U.S. this fall. To echo Hermes, it's an old tale from way back when, and they're gonna sing it again and again.
Daily Mirror
26-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
'I've visited nearly every country – 11 underrated destinations blew me away'
On track to create a World Record for the fastest person to visit every country on Earth, Michael Zervos has travelled to over 165 of the 195 countries that exist on Earth — and he's curated a list of the best ones. Greek American traveler Michael Zervos is on a mission. The mission is to create a World Record for the fastest person to visit every country on Earth. And he's doing incredibly well. On track to beat the existing record through his ambitious Project Kosmos, Zervos has travelled to over 165 of the 195 countries that exist on Earth — and he's rapidly closing in on his ultimate goal. Expecting to complete his mission by May 2025, Zervos has curated a list of the 11 most underrated destinations around the world, which he believes deserve a spot on every traveller's bucket list. READ MORE: Ryanair, easyJet and BA - exact amounts you could earn as a flight attendant Samoa With a mere 160,000 visitors each year, Samoa is an untouched Pacific paradise that's maintaining its unspoiled charm. Zervos says: "Many travellers simply don't realize how accessible and budget-friendly Samoa actually is. The word 'paradise' gets thrown around a lot when describing the Pacific, but Samoa truly matches my idea of paradise on Earth." Beyond the breathtaking coastline and immaculate white-sand beaches, the island's inland waterfalls, freshwater pools, and verdant jungle trails make Samoa a dream for explorers. "The To Sua Ocean Trench is jaw-dropping. This natural sinkhole is filled with crystal-clear water and one of the most unique swimming spots I've ever encountered," adds Zervos. One reason Samoa remains so beautifully conserved is its deeply ingrained Fa'a Samoa culture (The Samoan Way), which has largely remained unchanged for thousands of years. This traditional lifestyle influences everything from social structures to daily interactions, emphasising community, respect, and hospitality. Every village takes part in an annual beautification competition, ensuring the entire country is impeccably maintained by its inhabitants. The environment always takes precedence in Samoa. Kazakhstan "Overshadowed by its Soviet past, few travellers realize the incredible natural beauty that lies literally just beyond its cities," Zervos says of Kazakhstan. With around eight million visitors annually, Kazakhstan boasts easily accessible natural landscapes just a stone's throw from Almaty, its lively former capital. Within hours of landing, you could be hiking around Big Almaty Lake, skiing at Shymbulak, or admiring the dramatic Charyn Canyon - Kazakhstan's awe-inspiring equivalent to the Grand Canyon. Wild camping is allowed almost everywhere, letting tourists wake up surrounded by pristine nature. "Visit Shymbulak Mountain and take the funicular up to the ski resort at the top. It's unreal," suggests Zervos. If you're a fan of the Alps but want fewer crowds and lower costs, Kazakhstan will truly astonish you. For a completely different experience, space buffs have the unique chance to see a live rocket launch at Baikonur, the world's first and largest spaceport. Feel the earth tremble, hear the thunderous roar, and witness humanity's next leap into space as you partake in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Madagascar With 300,000 visitors each year, Madagascar is a haven of biodiversity, and 90% of its wildlife can't be found anywhere else on Earth. Describing it as "prehistoric", Zervos says it's like "stepping into a lost world" Lemurs, hyper-energetic, wide-eyed forest gymnasts with tails surpassing their body length, are often the stars of the show in Madagascar. However, it's the island's otherworldly landscapes that really etch themselves into your mind. "The Avenue of the Baobabs looks like something out of a sci-fi film. You're standing among trees that have been there for centuries - it's otherworldly," Zervos shares. Madagascar is an untamed composition of thick jungles, beaches encircled by coral, striking rock features, and azure diving havens. "If you want nature, wildlife, adventure, and coastline all in one place, this island will leave you speechless," Zervos adds. Navigating Madagascar might be challenging due to its unpaved roads, but the Fianarantsoa-Côte Est railway offers a journey unmatched. Worn carriages clatter through dense forests, expansive rice fields, and secluded villages, where eager children greet you at each halt. A quintessential experience of 'mora, mora' (slowly, slowly), encapsulating Madagascar's leisurely rhythm of life. Malta A Mediterranean treasure with a history spanning thousands of years, Malta can hold its own against the historical heavyweights, Greece and Italy. "My Greek heritage can't resist an island. Malta feels like one of the greatest hits of Europe, but with fewer tourists and more surprises. Riding a motorcycle across the island was an unforgettable experience," shares the pro-traveller. This sun-kissed jewel in the Mediterranean is a cultural cocktail - you'll hear a language reminiscent of Arabic, see architecture with an Italian flair, and discover cultural layers moulded by Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and the British. The fortified city of Mdina appears plucked from a medieval fairytale, while the Blue Grotto's azure waters give Capri a run for its money. Malta welcomes 2.7 million visitors annually. Zervos says: "History lovers will lose their minds here. Malta's temples are older than the pyramids. And where else can you visit prehistoric sites, medieval fortresses, and WWII bunkers all in one afternoon?" Unlike its more ostentatious neighbours, Malta offers affordability, picturesque landscapes, historical richness, and year-round sunshine - even in winter. Tunisia According to Zervos, "Morocco gets all the hype, but Tunisia surprised me in the best way. The people were so down-to-earth, warm, and genuinely curious about visitors – without the constant tourist hustle." Tunisia marries Mediterranean allure with North African spirit and sees 9 million visitors each year. You'll stumble upon ancient ruins like Carthage, whitewashed coastal towns like Sidi Bou Said, and expansive desert landscapes straight out of a Star Wars film (literally). But what truly captivated Zervos? The cuisine. "Tunis has one of the best street food scenes I've ever encountered. I did a food tour with my buddy Mehdi, who runs the YouTube channel Tunisian Street Food, and I still dream about the stuff we tried. Fricassés, brik, grilled merguez – it was unforgettable." Venture beyond the capital to discover Roman amphitheatres that give Italy's a run for their money, sip mint tea in labyrinthine medinas, or embark on a camel trek into the Sahara. "There are so many layers to Tunisia. It's not just beautiful – it's complex, creative, and full of contrasts." Lesotho Perched at the highest average altitude globally, Lesotho presents otherworldly landscapes and welcomes around 1.3 million visitors annually. The Sani Pass, a rough and tumble 4x4 trail, offers an adrenaline-pumping ride - often referred to as an 'African massage' - before treating adventurers to breathtaking vistas and friendly faces at Africa's loftiest pub, located at the summit. "Lesotho is raw, friendly, and ridiculously scenic. Riding on horseback through the mountains here felt like a movie scene. Absolutely breathtaking," shares Zervos. Lesotho also prides itself on Afriski, the only ski resort in Africa. Here, you can glide through fresh powder at over 3,000 meters amidst age-old shepherd paths, a unique experience on the continent. Bhutan "Bhutan is unlike anywhere else on Earth," claims Zervos, captivated by the mystical aura of Thimphu's mist and the gravity-defying Tiger's Nest Monastery in this secluded Himalayan kingdom. With a mere 60,000 visitors each year, Bhutan beckons as an essential destination for 2025. "It's the kind of place that stays with you, haunting your thoughts long after you leave. I think about my time in this beautiful country every week. Walking through Thimphu felt like walking on clouds." Bhutan stands out not just for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its unique approach to national well-being, being the only nation that values Gross National Happiness (GNH) above economic metrics. Its dedication to sustainability ensures tourism is thoughtfully regulated, cultural heritage is fiercely safeguarded, and the natural environment is held sacred. However, times are changing: Bhutan has eased its entry rules and lowered its fees, presenting an opportune moment to explore its wonders before it becomes a tourist magnet. Pakistan In contrast to India's frenetic vibe, Pakistan promises a more tranquil yet equally enriching experience, welcoming around 1 million visitors annually. Zervos adds: "Peshawar, with its bustling bazaars, intricately carved wooden doors, and centuries-old architecture is a dream for photographers and filmmakers - without the overwhelming crowds of Delhi or Mumbai." But Pakistan isn't just a feast for the eyes. It's a treasure trove of value for travellers, from bespoke clothing crafted in mere hours to delectable dishes that cost almost nothing. And for those eyeing Nepal for mountain escapades, Pakistan boasts even more awe-inspiring summits and pristine paths, with thrilling road trips passing five of the world's 14 highest mountains. "The people, the food, the landscapes, and the sheer affordability make Pakistan a must-visit for adventurers and filmmakers like me. I can't wait to return." Eritrea Dubbed a "sleeper favourite" by Zervos, Eritrea stands as one of Africa's most distinctive and off-the-beaten-path gems, attracting a modest 150,000 visitors annually. Its capital, Asmara, is a living museum of 1930s Art Deco splendour, meriting its UNESCO World Heritage acclaim. "Asmara's architecture is mind-blowing. And the people are so friendly - it's one of those places that welcomes you without fuss or fanfare," says the Greek American. Venturing beyond the urban charm, Eritrea's Red Sea coastline boasts virgin beaches and the unmarred Dahlak Archipelago, a diver's haven yet to be overrun by tourism. Culinary delights abound too, with fluffy injera, hearty stews, and arguably the finest macchiatos outside Italy – a nod to its colonial history, now mastered in Asmara's cafés. Indeed, Eritrea is an intriguing yet highly controlled destination. Travelling responsibly in this country involves patronising small, independent businesses and maintaining flexibility. Zervos notes: "The safety and the lack of tourists make it feel like a rare and authentic discovery in a world where most places have already been explored." Estonia Estonia is like a fairytale come to life, attracting four million visitors a year, with its capital, Tallinn, being especially enchanting – particularly in winter. Zervos shares, "In December, the old town transforms into a glowing Christmas wonderland. It's like something out of A Christmas Carol." Visiting Estonia during the winter months offers a unique opportunity to witness the Northern Lights without the hordes of tourists or the high costs associated with Norway or Iceland. In serene areas such as Lahemaa or Saaremaa, you can revel in the awe-inspiring Aurora amid pristine landscapes, all without expensive tours and just a short trip from the urban buzz. And the ideal way to soak in these experiences? Zervos suggests: "If you want that cosy winter feeling but without the crazy crowds of Paris or Vienna, Tallinn is the place to go. A stroll through its cobblestone streets with a cup of mulled wine in hand is pure magic." Suriname A vibrant South American confluence of cultures, unspoiled rainforest excursions, and vivid colonial history welcomes just 300,000 visitors yearly. Suriname serves as South America's cultural crucible, with its capital, Paramaribo, showing off well-preserved architecture, bustling markets, and a sizzling food scene blending Javanese, Creole, Dutch, and Indian flavours. Not to be outdone by its cultural offerings, Suriname boasts part of the Guiana Shield, one of Earth's last ecological strongholds. With its rainforest canopy covering more than 90% of the country, eco-adventurers can go on multi-day river voyages, spotting creatures like giant otters and howler monkeys. "Suriname is one of those places where nature reigns. Unlike Brazil or Peru, you won't be surrounded by crowds, making this Amazon experience feel truly wild and untouched."
Time Out
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
After 10 years in storage, an iconic Banksy artwork is on view again in NYC
An iconic artwork by the elusive street artist Banksy is now on display in Lower Manhattan, and you've got until May 21 to go see it. The 7,500-pound piece, titled "Battle to Survive a Broken Heart," features a bandaged heart-shaped balloon. Banksy created the artwork during 2013 in Brooklyn's Red Hook neighborhood. It's the only known piece that the enigmatic artist came back and retouched. Find it in the The Winter Garden at Brookfield Place at 230 Vesey Street. The tagged wall has been in a climate-controlled warehouse in Long Island City since 2014—until now. It is on public display until it is auctioned by Guernsey's on May 21, with a portion of the sale supporting The American Heart Association. The artwork has a particularly interesting origin story. In the fall of 2013, 59-year-old Vassilios Georgiadis offered helpful advice to a passing van driver. That van driver turned out to be Banksy, who returned in the middle of the night to create the floating Mylar balloon mural on Georgiadis' warehouse wall. Shortly after its creation, rival artist "Omar NYC" defaced the piece by spray-painting over the heart and scrawling his own name in front of a live crowd. Countering that—and the only time he has ever been known to re-work his art—Banksy revisited the wall at the corner of King and Van Brunt streets and embellished it further. Eventually, the art-covered section of the wall was excised from the warehouse and kept in storage. It's the only known piece that the enigmatic artist came back and retouched. Georgiadis sadly passed away from heart disease just a few years later. Honoring his memory, his family is generously donating a significant portion of the auction's proceeds to the American Heart Association. "This piece is obviously an iconic representation of the battle to survive a broken heart. It's an uplifting visual poem to that most fragile of human emotions that seem to move within us as if on a soft breeze," an audio guide at explains. It's an uplifting visual poem to that most fragile of human emotions that seem to move within us. If you want to watch the auction—or bid in it—add it to your calendar: it'll be held live on location in The Winter Garden at Brookfield Place and online via and Proceeds will be divided between the Greek American family that owned the warehouse and the American Heart Association. "To me this powerful artwork is more than just street art—it's a symbol of the millions of lives impacted by heart disease, our nation's leading cause of death," Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association, said in an official statement. "As we continue our diligent and dedicated work to improve health for everyone, everywhere we appreciate the support and generosity of the Georgiadis family. This donation will fund life-saving research, help us advocate for healthier communities and improve patient care."
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
From Detroit's Meat Town to L.A. Luxe: Christos Garkinos' Comeback Tour
If you want to understand Christos Garkinos, start with the sign that hung outside his family's Detroit restaurant: "This ain't no Burger King. You get it my way, or you don't get the thing."Fast forward several decades and several thousand miles to Los Angeles, and that same irreverent spirit has powered the Greek American entrepreneur through the city's notoriously fickle fashion landscape—and one hell of a is a city that worships reinvention almost as much as it fears a fall and Garkinos has experienced both. After pivoting from Disney executive to Virgin Megastore marketing maven to Bravo TV personality, he built his reputation as the "Robin Hood of fashion," connecting celebrity closets with luxury-hungry customers through his LA boutique. When he landed on HSN, it seemed the Detroit kid had truly came the tumble down Mulholland—literally. From his party palace perched high in the Hills, Garkinos descended into a perfect LA storm: addiction, divorce, death of loved ones and financial ruin."Life became life," he says with characteristic bluntness. By 2016, he found himself in a one-bedroom by Target on Cloverdale and a city built on occasional artifice, Garkinos' rock bottom had a certain authenticity. On May 1,2016—"Mayday, literally"—he decided to get sober. Of course, getting clean meant, as his sponsor told him, facing everything he'd been tossing in the back seat: "You stop, and all the trash hits you, and you're buried."LA loves a third act almost as much as it loves a celebrity closet sale. After COVID shuttered his traveling trunk show, Garkinos did what any resourceful Angeleno would do: he went digital. His first Instagram Live, he says, attracted "eight of them Russian bots, I'm sure." But Garkinos showed up religiously at 5 pm every day and his audience grew, so much so that one day a Chanel dealer asked about paying to join his stream. That's when Garkinos had an epiphany: his Instagram page had become a modern-day QVC. These days, a variety of hosts go live on his page, selling selections from the closets of the world's biggest celebrities—people with last names like Aniston, Cox, Kudrow and Garkinos built a digital empire that's now crossed $100 million in sales. He's married to the 'love of his life,' influencer Rolland Ryan. And Garkinos' followers have formed such a tight-knit community that they've formed a 'Stos Squad' that travels together Garkinos announced (on Instagram Live, of course) that his first book Covet the Comeback was available for pre-order, thousands of his fans flocked to buy it, driving the yet-to-be released book up to one of Amazon's top that the book is out—complete with a blurb from Garkinos' best friend, Real Housewife Garcelle Beauvais—he's taking the ultimate comeback loop with book launch events at NeueHouse and Spago (presented by Etro), followed by a country-wide book tour. At the same time, his Instagram channel will continue to broadcast all day and through the night. As his dad surely would have said, Garkinos is doing it all his way.
