By Penny Panayiota Deligiannis
Aurora, Ill.
We received an amazing telephone call from City Hall in Aurora, Ill.. In the State of Illinois, Aurora is the second largest city (Population: 177,070) after Chicago.
With a unanimous vote, Aurora mayor Richard C. Irvin and the Aurora City Council officially have approved to name South Root Street in an honorary manner to our parents, James and Dena Deligiannis, for their ongoing contribution and volunteer efforts spanning six decades towards the good of the community-at-large, their neighborhood and Saint Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church since 1962.
Our parents have lived their entire adult lives in Ward 2 Aurora. Most significant, Dad and Mom have quietly helped and served so many people due to their unselfish, open-minded, honest characters, kindness, hospitality, and sacrifices. Their Faith in God guides their daily actions and footsteps. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9).
You and your loved ones are invited to the official ceremony organized by the City government of Aurora which will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 in front of our home which is at 78 South Root Street. The ceremony will last approximately 30 minutes. The city government of Aurora will have chairs set up for you to sit. The weather forecast is sunny with clear skies.
Take note, our neighborhood block will be closed off to traffic for the ceremony so try to arrive by 10:30 a.m. because you will have to park your car on a nearby side street and walk to our home.
It gets even sweeter if that is possible. We have been informed that the city government of Aurora officially will proclaim September 16, as “James & Dena Deligiannis Day” which happens to be the exact day of their Diamond Wedding Anniversary, 60 years married!
Dad and Mom are humbled by this beautiful surprise. As this is all unfolding in real time. I wanted you to receive our invitation immediately so that you will be able to join us.
Please share our invitation with others who know us as I want to be sure everyone is invited. Help us spread the good news regarding this unique celebration honoring James and Dena Deligiannis. My parents, brothers, Spiro and Bill, and I look forward to seeing you September 10 in Aurora.
Relaying our love and gratitude.