Marianna Vardinoyannis

There are two types of philanthropy: the kind that is merely a showcase, and the kind that carries real substance. Marianna Vardinoyannis, who passed away on Monday, epitomized the latter category. Her invaluable contributions to the sensitive field of pediatric cancer have left a lasting impact.

Hundreds of Piraeus residents gathered at the Veakio Theatre for the big "We offer - We Hope - We Sing" concert under the auspices of the Greek Orthodox Metropolitanate of Piraeus.

It was an evening of both culture and a celebration honouring those who have offered selflessly.

Greek President Prokopios Pavlopoulos on Tuesday reiterated calls for the return of the Parthenon Marbles during a meeting at the Presidential Mansion in Athens with the president of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights advocacy group, Kerry Kennedy, and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Marianna Vardinoyannis.

With all the delirium and crazed Greek female fans’ reactions going on outside the Michalis Kakogiannis Foundation on Thursday, someone would have been mistaken to think that a mega-Hollywood star like Mat Damon or Brad Pitt was in town. But no.