Western Diocese To Hold 13Th Annual Christmas Ball On December 3, 2016

Burbank, CA – It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, not only in the local malls and major shopping centers, but at the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, where members of the Christmas Ball Committee, under the leadership of Raffi Kendirjian, Chair, have begun plans and preparations for the Annual Christmas Ball.  For the thirteenth year, this festive occasion will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2016 at the Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of the Arshag and Eleanor Dickranian Complex, 3325 North Glenoaks Boulevard in Burbank.

The festivities begin at 7:00 p.m. with a Reception and gala Tree Lighting Ceremony in the Turpanjian Plaza.  Families and friends gather together to enjoy the large beautifully decorated tree and then take pleasure in the delicious appetizers and inviting cocktail drinks in the Paul Brothers Galleria.  A welcoming dinner and exciting program will follow at 8:00 p.m. in the Kalaydjian Hall.  Guests will be awed by the Holiday décor and the perfect setting to launch the Holiday Season.

The theme for this year’s ball is “Lead by Faith,” which truly reflects the importance of the Annual Christmas Ball and its focus in honoring and recognizing the accomplishments of professional Armenian American men and women whose achievements are exemplified in their selfless service to our people and our church.   This year twelve illustrious community members will be recognized for their distinguished careers and their dedicated service to both the Armenian and American communities.  Kendirjian states, “They truly epitomize our Armenian heritage and culture with their faith and serve as an inspiration to future generations.”

The Christmas Ball was created by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, to develop and establish an auspicious occasion that brings the community together to celebrate the launch of the Christmas Season and the numerous achievements that have been accomplished throughout the year.  His Eminence stated: “There is no better way to sum up the year than to honor our notable professionals, who bring pride to our community with their impeccable character, expertise and dedicated service.  By honoring these individuals, we acknowledge their arduous work, steadfastness, determination and perseverance – essential qualifies that mold visionary leaders in the future.”

The professionals to be honored this year are Scott Asmar, MD; Naz Atikian;  Ara Balkian, MD, MBA; Alexis M. Gevorgian; Raymond Hartoonian; Silva Katchiguian; Gary Kevorkian, DDS, MS;  Karnig Kerkonian, Esq.; Karin Mushegain;  Gevorg Mutafyan, MD; and Tina Odjaghian, Esq.  On October 18, a special reception was held by the Christmas Ball Committee in the Paul Brothers Galleria at the Western Diocese, to meet and greet this year’s honorees who will be presented on December 3^rd.  At the event guests will enjoy a video presentation personally showcasing each of the honorees with live on the screen action and the opportunity to hear first hand of their careers and goals.

The Christmas Ball Committee is committed to holding an evening of camaraderie, fun and dancing.  They are delighted to announce that entertainment will be provided by Armenian International Superstar Harout Pamboukjian and his Band, as well as an International DJ who will perform both traditional Armenian music and familiar American tunes well into the night. 

A booklet containing the biographies of the honorees will be available to commemorate the event and afford families and friends the opportunity to write the honorees a personal congratulatory message.  Booklet Sponsorships in special categories are also available by contacting Hasmik Keyribarian:  email Hasmik.Keyribarian@gmail.com

Seating is limited as this event fills up fast!  Tickets for the event are $150.00 per person.  For reservations and/or further information, please contact the church office (818) 558-7474 or Araxie Boyamian at (818) 404-1662 or email:  araxie.boyamian@gmail.com.