Homenetmen Kicks Off the 35th Navasartian in Style

Homenetmen members and supporters enthusiastically gathered for the 35th Annual Navasartian Games' Victory Ball Kick-off Party on Thursday, May 27, 2010 at the Glendale Hilton Hotel's Skyline Lounge.

The event commenced with Vahag Thomassian, Chairperson of the Navasartian Victory Ball's Organizing Committee, welcoming all those in attendance and emphasizing the commendable fact that the Navasartian Athletic Games have embarked upon its 35th year. Thomassian's opening remarks gave recognition to the solid foundation that lies at the basis of the Homenetmen organization, which works considerately with the best of intentions for the younger generation. He energetically spoke of the inspirational nature of Homenetmen and the "Elevate Yourself and Others With You" motto that its members adhere to. Thomassian affirmed that this year's Victory Ball would consist of a wonderful program, including presentation of Navasartian's 35th Anniversary's godfathers.

Thereafter, Thomassian introduced members of the organizing committee also present at the Kick-off Party, which included Jasik Jarahian, Mimi Marashlian, Sossi Tavidian, Suzy Khanzadian, Salpi Jejeian, Christine Bedoian, Nora Tchaparian, and Karine Avaness. Ano Mansourian serves as the Regional Executive's liaison to the organizing committee.

Following Thomassian's remarks and introductions, Regional Executive Chairperson Steve Artinian conveyed the Regional Executive bodies' message, thanking the organizing committee for coordinating a successful event. Artinian expressed sincere appreciation toward all the Victory Ball event's sponsors and offered a special commendation to all Homenetmen volunteers, who tirelessly dedicate their time in service to the organization.

Artinian also introduced special guests present at the event, including Alice Andonian, who sponsors the Homenetmen Center's hall in memory of her late husband, Kevork Andonian; ARS Regional Executive board members Maco Setrakian and Ani Guiragossian; previous Navasartian Games Honorary Presidents Sarkis and Susan Kitsinian, Hratch Andonian, Hovsep and Elizabeth Boyajian, Vahag and Baytsar Thomassian; and "Exemplary Homenetmen Members" Zakar Chorbajian and Jasik Jarahian.

Subsequently, Artinian gave introduction to Harut Sassounian, President of the United Armenian Fund, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies during the Victory Ball and outlined his immense contributions to the Armenian community. The audience was also familiarized with Berdj Djamdjian, 2010 Exemplary Homenetmen Member, with acknowledgment given to his many attributes that make him worthy of such an honor.

Lastly, Honorary President of the 35th Annual Navasartian Games, George Jamgochian, was presented by Artinian, who he noted is an honorary member of the Homenetmen Glendale "Ararat" chapter and has great ties to the Armenian community.

Jasik Jarahian, also an Exemplary Homenetmen Member title holder, addressed the audience and discussed the importance of continually supporting Homenetmen. She encouraged audience members to take on the responsibility for the role of the Victory Ball's godfather.

In a lively atmosphere, Jarahian headed the sale of tickets, which were purchased by a great number of attendees who would return to the Glendale Hilton Hotel on Saturday, June 26, 2010 to celebrate during the Victory Ball.