Friday, April 17, 2015
Boston Marathon Wreath Ceremony
Last night I had the honor of partnering with Senator Karen Spilka,
Representative Carolyn Dykema, and the Alpha Omega Council to host the annual
presentation of wreaths for the Boston Marathon in the Great Hall of the State
House. Each year, the marathon wreaths are grown, handcrafted and covered in
gold in Greece, where the inspiration for the modern marathon originated in 490
BC. The wreaths are then brought to Boston and given to the Boston Athletic
Association and the people of our state by the people of Greece, reflecting the
strong bond that continues between us. Ultimately the wreaths are placed on the
heads of marathon winners as a crown of victory. To learn more about the wreath tradition
please click here.
The event was well attended with several dignitaries and officials
joining us for the presentation including the Consul General of Greece, Mrs.
Iphigenia Kanara, His Eminence Metropolitan Methodios, and Lt. Governor Karyn
Polito. Also, next week, on Friday April
24th, I will be hosting the State House’s Annual Greek Independence
Day Celebration with many of my colleagues in the Legislature.
The event, which is being held in the Senate’s Chamber starting at
12:30pm and is open to the public, draws hundreds of people from all across New
England and Greece. It is a wonderful
event that provides an excellent opportunity for those of Greek heritage to
celebrate Greece’s independence and for those interested in Greek history and
culture.
Posted below is a photo of me with Consul General Kanara and several
presenters during last night’s olive wreath presentation.
