PRESS RELEASE
Regional Executive
Armenian Relief Society Of Western U.S.A., Inc.
517 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale, CA 91202-2812
Telephone: (818) 500-1343
Fax: (818) 242-3732
Web Site:
Contact: Rita Hintlian
Email: [email protected]
ARS Regional Christmas Party at the Dawn of the ARS Centennial
GLENDALE, CA – The Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Western U.S.A.,
Regional Christmas Party was held on January 2, 2010, at the Armenag
Der Bedrossian Hall, at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. Upon the
invitation of the Regional Executive, ARS Central Executive board
chair, Vicky Marashlian; and board advisor, Nova Hindoyan, attended
the annual event with over 300 ARS members and guests.
The enthusiasm during the event was not just, because members came
from various chapters as far as San Francisco and Fresno; it was not
just the Christmas decorations adoring the usually barren hall; it was
not just the music; it was because the ARS had just turned 100 years
old.
Jasik Jarahian, the ARS of Western USA, General Manager, coordinated
the event and acted as the MC. Rev. Fr. Ardak Demirjian, Pastor of
St. Mary’s Church blessed the tables.
ARS of Western USA, Regional Executive Board Chair, Sossie Poladian,
spoke to the crowd noting that `the ARS Centennial is a time to renew
our oath to serve with dignity and pride, and to help revitalize our
100-year old organization with new ideas and strategies, so that we
can keep up with changing needs of our communities in a
forever-changing world.’
She said that those generations who came and passed, realized that
their success depended on awareness and appreciation of the ARS
mission, and faith, and added, `With the same awareness, we will
pursue our important mission and publicize ARS programs.’
Poladian noted the importance of volunteerism in shaping the lives of
the ARS members. She said, `The ARS Centennial is a chance for us to
look back at the time we joined this great organization, sometimes
following the footsteps of our mothers and sisters into the ranks; and
how the bonding experience of working with other volunteers has shaped
our minds and hearts, and enriched our lives’.
She said that Regional Executive greatly appreciates the efforts of
each member, while continuing to utilize available resources to help
chapters. The board continues to exert efforts to pursue new programs
to build the future ARS.
Poladian completed her remarks as follows, `We hope that the new
generation of ARS members will firmly hold on to the beliefs and will
exert a level of commitment as our long-time members, so when the
torch is passed onto the new generation, we will be assured that the
ARS will be in good hands for the next Century.’
Poladian had referred to the use of new technology as one of the ways
to enhance communication. If you would like to receive the ARS Voice
Online, please send your request to [email protected] .
Jasik Jarahian, who has been in charge of this annual program, cheered
the chapters for their financial contributions as she announced them,
encouraged members to participate in the May 16th ARS Centennial Fund
event, and contribute to the memory book.
US Census representative Anahid Tovmasian explained the details of
completing forms for the 2010 Census.
Salpi Mayilian, Gagig Badalian and Varouhie Shahinian entertained the
crowd, helping to create enthusiasm and high spirits, and a desire to
not leave the hall by leaving old and new friends behind.
Sossie Poladian congratulated the crowd for being a witness to the ARS
Centennial and praised the Lord for this chance. This Christmas party
was how the ARS members were reinvigorated to continue their devoted
service to the community locally and around the world.