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Thirteen was a lucky number for the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, as over 400 guests attended the 13th Annual Christmas Ball on December 3rd at the Diocesan Complex in Burbank. The theme of this annual event, “Lead by Faith” reflected the leadership and vision of the twelve distinguished professionals who were honored for their successful careers and devoted service to both the Armenian and American communities.
The evening began with the traditional lighting of the giant Christmas Tree in the Turpanjian Plaza. Guests then gathered for a reception in the Paul Brothers Galleria for the pleasure of visiting with His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate; Diocesan Clergy; dignitaries and most of all the opportunity to acknowledge and congratulate the honorees.
Guests were then seated in the beautifully decorated Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall to enjoy the evening’s festivities. The program began with welcoming remarks by Raffi Kendirjian, Chair of the Christmas Ball Committee, expressing his thanks and appreciation for their attendance and support of the honorees. Kendirjian added by saying “This annual tradition at the Diocese has been a journey of love, friendship but above all, a journey of celebrating success while launching the season of Christmastide with a true blast.”
Chairman Kanimian congratulated the twelve honorees on their achievements and extended his gratitude to the members of the organizing committee for their relentless efforts, year after year, in putting together a successful event. He stated that this year, the thirteenth honor should be bestowed upon the organizing committee. He also congratulated Primate Derderian on the joyous occasion of his 59th birthday, wishing him long life and great health.
He concluded his remarks by stating that with faith in our Creator, Almighty God, we can move mountains and achieve our goals.
A video was shown with remarks by each of the honorees reflecting on their careers, accomplishments and future goals. The twelve honorees recognized this evening were: Scott Asmar, Ph.D.; Naz Atikian; Ara Balkian,MD, MBA; Alexis M. Gevorgian; Raymond Hartoonian; Silva Katchiguian; Gary Kevorkian, DDS; Karnig Kerkoonian, Esq.; Karin Mushegain; Gevorg Mutafyan, MD; and Tina Odjaghian, Esq. As an added gesture, following the video, honorees from previous years, introduced each of the honorees as they came forward to receive their awards from His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.
His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian in his remarks congratulated the honorees for their dedication and diligence in their professional lives; that through their achievements they serve as an inspiration for future generations and bring pride and recognition to the Armenian community. As each of the honorees walked up to the podium to accept their awards, they were greeted by applause and cheers from their family members and friends. The honorees also received Certificates of Commendation from Congressman Adam Schiff who extended his personal congratulations to the honorees and wished those present a joyous Christmas season. Mr. Schiff has been a regular participant at each of our annual Christmas Ball celebrations.
Raffi Kendirjian, Chair, expressed his sincere appreciation to the members of the Christmas Ball Organizing Committee, for their continued service and hard work in the planning and preparation of this traditional event. He introduced and invited each member of the committee to stand and be recognized for their efforts.
(CLICK ON PHOTO BELOW FOR 2016 CHRISTMAS BALL PHOTO ALBUM)
Another highlight of the evening was the opportunity to celebrate the birthday and to express love and best wishes to our beloved Primate, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian The celebration included a decorated birthday cake and a cheerful “Happy Birthday” sung by the guests.
Guests received a booklet containing biographies of the honorees as well as congratulatory messages from families and friends to commemorate this occasion. The booklet contained pictures and memories from the 12th Annual Christmas Ball, as well as pictures of the 2016 year in review featuring the many events and activities of the Western Diocese and its various committees.
The 13th Annual Christmas Ball has become an evening to celebrate and launch the Christmas Season. Guests fill the dance floor and truly dance all night to the music provided by Armenian International Superstar Harout Pamboukjian and his band, as well as an international DJ performing both traditional Armenian and familiar American tunes. The Annual Christmas Ball has become an exciting and remembered event for the honorees and guests.
