2019 Christmas Ball Booklet Final

Grand
Sponsor

On October 20, 2019, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
was bestowed the prestigious Khrimian Hayrig Award
by the ANC-WR Board of Directors for his exemplary
service and devotion to the Armenian Cause

PROGRAM
Invocation
Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan
St. Leon Cathedral Priest
Welcoming Remarks
Christmas Ball Committee Chairman
Raffi H. Kendirjian, CRPC®, ChFC®, CFP®
Remarks by Diocesan Council Chairperson
Hon. Adrienne L. Krikorian
2019 Honoree
Award Ceremony and Video Presentation
Words of Appreciation
and Distribution of
Certificates of Recognition
His Eminence, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate
Live Entertainment by
Maestro Greg Hosharian, Conductor
Hosharian Brothers Band
Special Presentation by
Christmas Ball Committee

Beloved faithful,
The Message of the Diocesan Primate
His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
On the Occasion of the 15 th Annual Christmas Ball
Message of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
The Message Primate of the of the Diocesan Western Diocese Primate of the Armenian Church
His Eminence Archbishop The Message of North Hovnan America of the Derderian Diocesan and Mexico Primate
On the Occasion of His the Eminence 15 th Annual Archbishop Christmas Hovnan Ball Derderian
On the Occasion 16th Annual of the Diocesan 15 th Annual Christmas Christmas Ball Ball
I am very emotional today, because this year’s Christmas Ball coincides with my 15 th anniversary of election as
the Primate of the Western Diocese. At this sentimental moment, I feel the need to rein my personal emotions
and reflect on the amazing work we have achieved together through Christmas Ball celebrations.
Beloved faithful,
With the festive and joyous Christmas season upon us, our hearts are renewed and enlightened by
I vividly remember Beloved how I was faithful, approached by a group of dedicated individuals right after my election in 2003.
the merriment of the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I am They very conveyed emotional to me today, the because well-thought this year’s wish of Christmas organizing Ball annual coincides Christmas with my Ball 15celebrations th anniversary in of honor election and as
A the recognition
well-established Primate of of the Armenian Western I am very American
and revered Diocese. emotional Diocesan At professionals today, this sentimental because in our
tradition, this moment, community.
the year’s Christmas I feel What the Ball need was spearheaded
creates coincides to rein my a with unique personal 15 my years 15setting emotions
th ago anniversary grew to
and of election a
atmosphere and become reflect a on prestigious
where the amazing the the Primate and
spirit work a well-known of of the Christmas have Western achieved holiday Diocese. is
celebration
shared together At this by through with
all. sentimental hundreds
We Christmas hear moment, of
about Ball people celebrations.
I the feel attending
Spirit the need of
it annually.
Christmas to rein my Since personal emotio
in the cartoons, inception movies, of Christmas and reflect television Ball, the and amazing Western radio work Diocese ads, we and has have social recognized achieved media. together many To medical many through doctors, retailers Christmas lawyers, the Ball phrase celebrations.
artists, has
become I vividly musicians, remember marketing philanthropists, how ploy I was to community approached drive up sales. activists by a group However, and of leaders, dedicated what humble individuals does servants the spirit right of the after of church, Christmas my election and many truly in 2003. entail others
from They representing conveyed a Christian various to me I perspective? vividly the professional well-thought remember What fields. how wish I was the of organizing essence approached annual of by that a Christmas group beautiful of dedicated Ball phrase? celebrations individuals The Spirit honor right of and after Christmas my election in 2003
or recognition God’s calling of Armenian They to rejoice conveyed American and to professionals celebrate me the well-thought the in our Miraculous community. wish of Birth organizing What of was His annual spearheaded Only Christmas Begotten 15 Ball years Son celebrations ago is alive grew to in in honor and
each become With of a a us. grateful prestigious Through heart, recognition and Christ’s we a congratulate well-known of Holy Armenian Birth, holiday tonight’s American we celebration prepare distinguished professionals with for the honorees hundreds in renewal our community. for of people putting of our attending their hearts What faith was and it in spearheaded annually. action souls. and Hence, Since 15 years ago gre
the the excelling Spirit inception of Christmas their of Christmas become respective is Ball, a our prestigious fields the firm Western of reply service. and Diocese of a We well-known preparedness also has congratulate recognized holiday to celebration be all many renewed. the medical past with honorees doctors, hundreds for lawyers, remaining of people artists, attending steadfast it annually. S
musicians, in their faith philanthropists, and the God-pleasing inception community of service Christmas activists to the Ball, community. and the leaders, Western Many humble Diocese kudos servants has to Mr. recognized of Raffi the church, Kendirjan, many and medical Chair many of doctors, others
lawyers, artists,
I pray to the Almighty God to grant you all a healthy and a prosperous life. I thank wholeheartedly
representing Christmas Ball various Committee musicians, professional for philanthropists, organizing fields. such community successful activists events year and in leaders, year out. humble Congratulations servants of the again, church, and and many other
the Vartskernid Christmas Gadar. Ball Committee, chaired by Raffi Kendirjian for their diligent work and love for the Armenian
Church. My special gratitude goes out to you all for the support given to this home, where
representing various professional fields.
With a grateful heart, we congratulate tonight’s distinguished honorees for putting their faith in action and
you put your heart and soul.
excelling May the in love their of respective God With the a grateful Incarnate fields of heart, service. reign we in congratulate We your also households congratulate tonight’s today, all distinguished tomorrow, the past honorees and always. for for remaining Amen. putting steadfast their faith in action and
My in their dear faith honorees, and God-pleasing excelling tonight’s their service celebration respective to the community. is fields themed of service. Many “Blessed.” We kudos also to We congratulate Mr. feel Raffi blessed Kendirjan, all the because past Chair honorees of your the for presence
Christmas Prayerfully,
remaining steadf
makes Ball it Committee richer, in their more for faith organizing inspiring and God-pleasing such and successful meaningful. service events to the God year community. bless in year you out. Many all Congratulations kudos and your to Mr. families. Raffi again, Kendirjan, and We wish Chair of the
you Vartskernid a blessed Gadar. life. Christmas A life led Ball by Committee God is life-radiating for organizing such light successful for humanity. events Be year the in year light out. for Congratulations the people of again, and
God and let your Vartskernid lives be the Gadar. power of prayer for all who surround you.
May Archbishop the love of Hovnan God the Derderian, Incarnate Primate reign in your households today, tomorrow, and always. Amen.
May Western God’s Diocese divine
May of love the the Armenian and
love
peace
of God Church the
reign
Incarnate
on Earth.
reign in your households today, tomorrow, and always. Amen.
Prayerfully, North America
Prayerfully,
December 1, 2018
Burbank, California
Archbishop Hovnan Hovnan Derderian, Derderian Primate
Primate Western Diocese of Archbishop the Armenian Hovnan Church Derderian, Primate
December 7, 2019
North America Western Diocese of the Armenian Church
North America
December 1, 2018
Burbank, California December 1, 2018
Burbank, California

Diocesan Council Chairman’s Message
This year we are celebrating a full year leading up to the 10th anniversary in September 2020 of
our beautiful St. Leon (Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral. Many devoted and faithful members of
our community helped to make the transition of our Cathedral from a dream to a reality, the most
important of whom is our Primate, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian. Without Srpazan’s
energy, vision and dedication, which are boundless, our Diocese and the Armenian Diaspora in
general would not be what they are today. We are grateful to have Srpazan as our leader and as
a friend, and we wish him a happy birthday and a very healthy and productive coming year.
Our Christmas Ball acknowledges several talented and devoted members of our community. We
are honored and delighted to recognize their personal achievements, which they have each shared
with the Armenian community selflessly and without bounds. They are wonderful examples to the
youth of the Armenian community on how our youth can also make a difference as they transition
into adulthood.
As we move into a new decade in 2020, we wish our faithful a healthy and happy new year. Remember
that the Armenian Church has existed for close to 2000 years, often with significant challenges.
Armenians are survivors and we have contributed over history in so many ways to make
the life we live as Armenians meaningful today. Challenge yourself in the new year to find and
recognize your talents. More important, share those talents with the Armenian community. Together
we will make our future generations proud of being an Armenian and a Christian who worships in
the Armenian Church.
Hon. Adrienne L. Krikorian, Chairman
Western Diocese Diocesan Council

Dear family and friends,
Welcome to the Western Diocese headquarters. Welcome to the 16th
Annual Christmas Ball. I am sure there are some among our crowd
tonight who are visiting the Diocese and this event for the first time. We
hope you make time to visit the complex, explore the more than 15 large
Khatchkars, our magnificent Cathedral, the Genocide Memorial, the
Zorayan Museum, or just walk the grounds. Welcome to your home. Visit us often and be part of
this beautiful experience we call the Armenian Church!
For sixteen straight years, on the first Saturday of December, we gather in glamour to launch a
beautiful tradition in the life of our church - the Christmas season. This event has become the most
sought out celebration of the year for the Western Diocese. It combines celebrating success, by recognizing
several members of our community for their achievements, with world class entertainment
and fun.
This event also means looking back at the year and appreciating the work, the passion of our army
of volunteers and the love they put into the countless hours of meetings throughout the year. I salute
you and thank you from the bottom of my heart. Know that your work makes people’s lives better
and puts a smile on their faces. Makes them forgot their pains, even if its for a brief moment.
Now, I beg to ask a crucial question to all of you - do you feel Blessed? “Blessed” is the theme of
this year’s Christmas Ball, and in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we sometimes forget to
close our eyes and thank God Almighty for all the blessings in our lives, our family, friends, our
health, our work, our country, and the list goes on. The Cathedral doors are open tonight, so maybe
you could sneak in and light a candle for all your blessings... just saying.
Among our blessings, is the presence of our dear Hovnan Srpazan in our lives. With his prayers,
his sermons, his books and ever-flowing optimism, you cannot but think that you are blessed in his
presence. May God Bless you Srpazan and keep you healthy and strong so we can celebrate many
many birthdays and many many Christmas Balls with you!
Folks, enjoy the evening and may you all have a blast!
Raffi H. Kendirjian, CRPC ® , ChFC ® , CFP ®
Chair, Christmas Ball Committee

WESTERN DIOCESE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BALL
PAST HONOREES
2004 • Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese
2005 • Eleanor Dickranian
2006 • Berj Shahbazian
2007 • Nishan Derderian • Hon. Eric Garcetti • Armen Hampar
2008 • Michael R. Amerian, Esq. • Ara Apkarian, PhD • Daniel Banks • Marty Dakessian, Esq. • Jack K. Der-Sarkissian, MD
Carla Garapedian, PhD • Arto Haddadian, MD • Steven D. Kamajian, DO • Talin P. Kargodorian, EdD
Hratch Kourouyan, MD • Maria Mehranian • Jack Sarkissian, MD • Hratch A. Sepetjian
Vicken Sepilian, MD, MS, FACOG • Hon. Zaven V. Sinanian •Anita Vogel
2009 • Mark Arax • Raffy Astvasadoorian, Esq. • Boris Bagdasarian, DO • Garo Ghazarian, Esq. • Elizabeth Manasserian
Terri Melkonian • Zarmine Naccashian, PhD, RN, NP • Eric Nazarian • A. Peter Kezirian, Jr. • Lucy Varpetian, Esq.
2010 • Peter Abajian • Harry Balian, MD, FACC, FSCAI • Sonia Boyajian • Armen Cherik, MD, MBA • Aida Gharakhani
Arbi Ghazarian, MD • Vatche Mankerian • Avedis Markarian • Edvin Minassian, Esq. • Vicken Sonentz-Papazian, Esq.
2011 • Narine Arutyounian, MD • Chris Ayzoukian • Rita A. Hamalian, Esq. • Eileen Keusseyan, Esq. •Ara S. Klijian, MD
John Lulejian, Esq • Shahé Mankerian • Raffi Margossian, DDS, MSD • Nayri Nahabedian, MSW
2012 • Varoosh Alaverdian, MD, FACOG • Lily Ring Balian • Hasmik Danielian, EdD • Saro Kerkonian, Esq
Simon Keushkerian, MD • Hovanes Margarian, Esq. • Ramella Markarian, MS, MHA. • David Mgrublian
Hagop Panossian, PhD • John Tajirian, ME • Alan Yaghjian
2013 • Lina Arslanian • Rostom Baghdassarian • Raffi R. Barsam, DMD • Sara Bedirian, JD • Alice Chakrian
Araksya Karapetyan • Gerard Kassabian, JD, LLM • Houry Khechoumian • Serineh V. Melidonian, MD
Harout Mesrobian, MD • Raffi Tachdjian, MD, MPH • Vartan Tachdjian, MD • Mihran Tcholakian • Jessica Vartoughian
2014 • Araxie Boyamian • Lena Bozoyan • Arthur S. Charchian, Esq. • Vartan & Siranoush Gevorkian
Peter Hosharian, Esq. • Armond Kotikian, DDS, MD, FACS • Azniv Ksachikyan, Esq. • Manuel Momjian, MD
Mike M. Sarian • Ani Shabazian, PhD
2015 • Emil Avanes, MD • Armine Gharpetian, DDS • Derik Ghookasian • Armen Gondrachyan (Armenchik)
Mireille Hamparian, MD • Vanna Kitsinian, Esq. • Vartan Nazerian • Tigran Palyan, Esq. • Arsen Sarkisian
Nick Sarkisian
2016 • Scott A. Asmar, PhD • Naz Atikian • Ara Balkian, MD, MBA • Evelyn Baghdasraian • Barkhoudarian, MD
Alexis M. Gevorgian • Raymond Hartoonian • Silva Katchiguian • Gary Kevorkian, DDS, MS • Karnig Kerkonian, Esq.
Karin Mushegain • Gevorg Mutafyan, MD • Tina Odjaghian, Esq.
2017 • Armenui (Amy) Ashvanian, Esq. • Pattyl Aposhian Kasparian, MBA, CIE • Dr. Ohannes Kulak Avedikyan
Kevin G. Galstyan, MD, FACOG • Silva Karchikian, MD • Hasmik Keyribarian • Ruben Melikyan
Arby Nahapetian, MD, MPH, FACC • Ronald (Ron) Nazeley • Shahan V. Yacoubian, MD
2018 • Arin Aboulian, MD, FCCP • Thomas Alexanian • Robert Barsam • Sarkis Der Sarkissian
Arsinee Kalfayan Geuvdjelian, PharmD • Krekor Karaguezian • Sirvart Kavoukjian • Frederick Mesropi, Esq.
Edi Sarafoglu • Aida Sethian • Belet Shahbazian • Sebouh Zaghikian

2019 Honorees
Armen Akaragian, Esq.
Barkev Hamalian
Mark M. Kosker, D.C.
Hrag Ohannessian
Andre Panossian, M.D.
Lena Simonian
Harry Sinanian

Armen Akaragian, Esq.
Armen Akaragian is an attorney in Los Angeles admitted to practice in 2006. Armen has arbitrated,
tried, and settled several cases which have resulted in multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. In
2009, he was nominated for the coveted Consumer Trial Attorney of the Year Award by the Consumer
Attorneys of California, following his involvement in the case of Pannu vs. Land Rover. He has also
been published on important cases that set important precedents in California, including Pannu v.
Land Rover North America, Inc., Purton v. Marriott International, Inc, and Lewis v. Ukran. In 2011,
Armen again was recognized for his accomplishments by the Armenian Bar Association as one of the
top 20 lawyers under 40.
This was the first time this award had been given out by the Bar Association. Armen attended
California State University, Northridge, where, in 2002, he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in
Business Administration. He then attended Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles and
completed his Juris Doctor degree in 2005.

Barkev Hamalian
Barkev Hamalian was born in 1958 Beirut Lebanon, where he attended A.G.B.U Hovagimian
Manookian High school. He was a “tech geak” before it was cool and went on to graduate from the
Lebanese Polytechnique institute in electronics in1976.
He became an A.G.B.U member at a very young age and joined the Scouts, swiftly moving up the
ranks to become scout leader.
During the turmoil of the Lebanese civil war, he moved to Saudi Arabia to pursue his technical carrier,
as Service Manager at a prominent Saudi Office automation Company.
Shortly thereafter in 1981 he pursued the beautiful and vivacious Seta Kalaydjian, who happily
accepted his marriage proposal. Together, they moved to Saudi Arabia and were blessed with two
wonderful daughters Alin and Lorie.
In the summer of 1990, they immigrated to Los Angeles, and upon arrival he was hired by Global
Imaging company as Instructor trainer for Konica Minolta, Sharp and Xerox Manufacturers, He
became a St. Peter Church member in 2003, and has since proudly served on the Parish council for
several terms and has served on the Diocesan Council as well.
He has been a member of Knights of Vartan and has moved in the ranks to become the Sbarabed, of
Sevan Lodge a local chapter.
In 2011 he established his own service consulting company in Los Angeles specializing in the office
equipment industry and is successfully running the company today. Above all, Barkev is a family man,
blessed with three rambunctious grandchildren always keeping him young and on his toes.

Mark M. Kosker, D.C.
Dr. Mark M. Kosker, is a well-known chiropractor and Naturopath, practicing full time since 1990 in
Toluca Lake.
Dr. Kosker was born and baptized at St. Gregory Church as Krikor Lusoveric in Kayseri. He was
one of eight children from a father who survived as an orphan as a result of the Ottoman Turkish
Massacre in Sivas. He grew up listening to sad, unjustified atrocities to innocent Armenians during
the Genocide.
He attended the Surp Hac Tibrevank Boarding School (The Holy Cross Boarding School) in Uskudar,
Istanbul, which was established by a great humanitarian Patriarch of Turkey, Karekin Khachadourian.
He was fortunate to be accepted to this great school at no cost to his family with the help of two great
Armenians, Fr. Krikor Mardirian and Patriarch Shnork Kaloustian. He humbly shared classrooms with
the Archbishops of Germany: Karekin Bekciyan, Khajag Barsamian and Viken Aykazian, who are
known around the world today as leaders of the Armenian Church.
Dr. Kosker came to the United States in 1975 and graduated from the Cleveland Chiropractic School
in 1988. He has served the Organization of Istanbul Armenians for over 25 years and now serves
as its current President of the Executive Committee.
He has served as a council member and treasurer of the St. Leon Armenian Cathedral Parish, along
with serving on the first Christmas Ball Committee, chaired by Joseph Kanimian. He has also served
on the Fundraising Committee and is an active member of the Parish.
Dr. Kosker married Annette Terzibasyan in 1993 and they are blessed with two children, a son
Alexander who is also studying to be a chiropractor and Melanie who is a senior at Rose and Alex
Pilibos.
Dr. Kosker expressed his thanks and appreciation to his fellow Organization of Istanbul Armenians
Board members, the Annual Christmas Ball Committee, and Archbishop Hovnan Derderian for being
bestowed upon with this honor.

Hrag Ohannessian
Hrag Ohannessian is currently Senior Vice President of Sales at Universal Electronics. He joined
Universal Electronics in 1997 as an Application Engineer and in less than two years was tasked with
growing the company’s business on the East Coast and moved to Boston in 1999. He accomplished
his set goals and objectives and within two years’ time moved back to Los Angeles where he moved
up into his present role.
Hrag Ohannessian was born in 1971 in Beirut Lebanon, his parents having moved there from Jerusalem
to escape the unstable conditions and settle in a country that had a large Armenian population and in
hopes of a better life. Unfortunately, in less than 12 years the family was faced with the decision to
escape the war in Lebanon and on his 5th birthday the family moved to Kuwait. Unfortunately, two
months after moving the family lost their father to a sudden heart attack, leaving his mother a young
widow with 5 year old Haig and 11 year old daughter. His mother bravely took on the responsibility
of her family and gave piano lessons to provide for her children.
Hrag and his sister attended the Armenian School of Kuwait and growing up he was an active
member of the Church and Scouting Program and dedicated to every activity that promoted Armenian
Culture. To seek higher education, at the age of 17, he moved to Los Angeles where he graduated in
1995 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, with High Honors from California
State University, Fullerton. He started his career at Teledyne in early 1995 and focused on settling in
the United States.
Hrag met his wife, Aline Ketsemanian, when he served in Boston for Universal Electronics. After
accomplishing his goals within two years, he moved back to Los Angeles where he married Aline in
late 2001. They settled in Granada Hills and were blessed with two children, Hera and Garo.
Hrag was an active volunteer with the AGBU San Fernando Chapter, particularly in the Scouting
Program to give back to the organization that had been close to his heart. In 2012 he became the
AGBU San Fernando Valley Scouting Committee Chair and in 2014 the Chapter Chair. In 2019,
after terming out as Chapter Chair, Hrag joined the Western District Committee where he currently
serves.

Andre Panossian, M.D.
Dr. Andre Panossian is an internationally recognized, board certified plastic surgeon specializing
in rhinoplasty, facial paralysis, and cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast and
body. Dr. Panossian is additionally known for being a top surgeon in the United States who treats a
rare condition called neurofibromatosis. His cutting-edge technique for facial paralysis surgery has
been featured on “Good Morning America,” “The Doctors,” ABC-7 and KTLA-5 News (Los Angeles)
and The Los Angeles Times. In 2015, his work was featured on “CBS Nightly News” as part of a
groundbreaking team performing the first twin separation surgery in Haiti. Dr. Panossian has been
featured as one of LA Business Journal’s “Top Doctors” and was named a go-to plastic surgeon for
“Rhinoplasty in Los Angeles” by Maxim Magazine. Dr. Panossian is a member of the American
Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons. A firstgeneration
Armenian American whose drive for participating in international medical missions has
remained constant since his residency at USC’s Keck School of Medicine and throughout a 7-year
tenure at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Dr. Panossian has been a 10-year volunteer surgeon with
Los Angeles non-profit Mending Kids (for which he currently serves on the Board of Directors). In
2015, he initiated the organization’s first surgical mission to Armenia -- what started as a solo effort to
treat underserved pediatric patients has now expanded to specialized seminars for medical students
and doctors in Yerevan. Dr. Panossian received his medical education at Tufts University School of
Medicine after graduating UCLA with Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors. His practice is
based in Pasadena, and he travels internationally to lecture and present new techniques for some of
today’s most complicated reconstructive and cosmetic cases. Connect at DrPanossian.com.

Lena Simonian
Lena Simonian was born in Beirut, Lebanon in a family with strong Christian values. She attended
A.G.B.U. Demirjian School and Lebanon Evangelical School for Girls respectively. After high school
graduation she married her caring and loving husband, Dr. Simon Simonian and together migrated
to Philadelphia, PA where she attended Widener University. There along with her husband became
active members of Tekeyan Cultural Association.
In 1980, she along with her husband moved to Pasadena, CA and later was blessed with 2 sons
Shiraz and Sevag. In 1986 she became an active member of the newly formed American Armenian
Medical Society Ladies Auxiliary where she served for 4 years organizing fund-raising events. In
1990, she held several positions in PTO of Mekhitarian School for 5 years. She also became
involved in the executive committee of Pasadena A.G.B.U. Scouts. In 1996, she served as recording
secretary of Ladies Society of A.G.B.U. Southern CA District Committee for 4 years. In the meantime
she continued her education at Cal. Polytechnic University, Pomona earning her Bachelor of Science
in nutrition. She worked at Huntington Memorial Hospital, Pasadena for a short time doing research
for chief clinical dietitian in nutrition related certificate courses.
In 2004, she was elected chair of ladies society of the newly formed AAC, Crescenta Valley, and now
Holy Apostles and chaired the committee for 12 years organizing fund-raising events and annual gala
banquets. In 2006, she became a member of Western Diocese Ladies Auxiliary and later held several
positions on Ladies Society Central Council board of Western Diocese, especially chairing the board
from 2014 to 2017. In 2008, she along with her husband became Godfathers of St. Leon Cathedral
and participated in several Diocesan fund-raising committees, chairing Victory Ball in June, 2010.
Currently she is the secretary of Zvartnots Cultural Committee and a member of Zorayan Museum
Committee for the past 10 years. Her favorite committee to work in is Christian Education Retreat
where she is serving as chair for the past 6 years. Lena is blessed with beautiful daughters-in-law,
Taline and Deanna and 2 adorable grandchildren, Leah and Vahan.
Her passion to turn spirit of dedication and service into symbol of her life will continue as long as God
blesses her with energy and enthusiasm. Her favorite moto in life: Living for God’s glory is the greatest
achievement we can accomplish with our lives.

Harry Sinanian
Harry Sinanian was elected in 2018, after many years of service on the board of AGBU Asbeds of Los
Angeles, as Chairman of the Board. Under Harry’s leadership, and a motivated and dedicated team,
they have organized numerous events to support key AGBU projects, such as the American University
of Armenia’s “100 Pillars” initiative. He helped the committee commit a $120,000 donation to the
Armenian American Museum project in Glendale. Through his initiative and continued dedication to
AGBU Asbeds, he continues to promote the Armenian community’s interests in Los Angeles, Armenia,
and worldwide.
AGBU Asbeds, founded in the 1970s in Beirut, Lebanon, has been highly successful in bringing
professional members of AGBU to serve the community and organize cultural and social activities.
Some of the Asbeds who had emigrated from Lebanon to Los Angeles, decided to rebirth the Asbeds
group in their new home. In 2002, AGBU Asbeds of Los Angeles was launched and immediately
recruited numerous professionals of the community to join a platform forArmenian-American families to
participate in cultural, social and philanthropic activities aimed at enriching the Armenian community
at large.
Harry Sinanian spent his childhood in Aleppo, Syria, moving to Beirut, Lebanon at the age of ten,
where he spent his youth and childhood. He attended Haigazian College in Beirut as a business
major. He immigrated to the United States in 1976 and, shortly after, joined his two brothers as a
partner in a construction and real estate development company, known as Sinanian Development, Inc.
He married Hilda Gazelian in 1986 and they have two children, Michael and Lara.
He followed in the footsteps of his father in serving the community and has been an active AGBU
member for many decades, serving in the San Fernando Valley Chapter for several years. In 2004 he
joined the committee of AGBU Asbeds of Los Angeles, eventually succeeding in 2018 to his present
position as Chairman of the Board.

Memories From
15 th Annual Christmas Ball

Memories From
15 th Annual Christmas Ball

Memories From
15 th Annual Christmas Ball

Year in Review • January

Year in Review • February

Year in Review • February

Year in Review • March

Year in Review • March

Year in Review • April

Year in Review • April

Year in Review • May

Year in Review • May

Year in Review • June

Year in Review • July

Year in Review • August

Year in Review • September

Year in Review • September

Year in Review • October

Year in Review • October

Year in Review • November

Year in Review • November

Platinum
Sponsor
∑
Happy Birthday and Congratulations
to His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan
Derderian on the 16th year Anniversary of
his dedicated and devoted service to our
Diocese and community.
Our heartfelt congratulations also go to
the 2019 Honorees, especially to Dr. Mark
M Kosker for all his contributions and
dedication to the church, the community
and the Organization of Istanbul Armenians.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!!
∑
Annette Kosker
Alexander and Melanie Kosker

Gold
Sponsor
∑
Our best wishes of success to
his eminence
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
and to our chair
Asbed Harry Sinanian
∑
AGBU ASBEDS
Los Angeles, California

Gold
Sponsor
∑
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas
and a healthy and Happy New Year.
Congratulations to all of tonight’s
honorees and their families on the much
deserved recognition.
And, a very special Happy Birthday to
our beloved Hovnan Surpazan
May God continue to bless
you all with His love.
From the Ghookasian Family
∑
Derik, Adrineh, Nareg, Nathan
and Nicholas Ghookasian

Gold
Sponsor
∑
Congratulations to the 16th Anniversary
of the Christmas Ball committee!
Happy Birthday to our dear Srpazan
Hayr! Congratulations on the 16th
anniversary of his primacy!
We also would like to congratulate
the 2019 honorees! Merry Christmas &
Happy New Year!
∑
Armen & Nora Hampar

Gold
Sponsor
∑
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Congratulations to the Christmas
Ball committee! Happy Birthday to
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian!
Congratulations, as well, to the 16 th
Anniversary of his primacy at the
Western Diocese! Congratulations
to the 2019 honorees!
∑
Hartyoon & Silva Hilalian

Gold
Sponsor
∑
Happy Birthday,
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian!
Congratulations on the 16th Anniversary
of your primacy to the Western Diocese!
Congratulations to the 2019 honorees
& to the Christmas Ball committee!
∑
Kathy & Khoren Kassardjian

Gold
Sponsor
∑
The Organization of Istanbul Armenians
congratulates our very own Dr. Mark Kosker on
the occasion of being honored by the Western
Diocese for his decades long exemplary
service to our community, our organization and
our Church. He is a very dedicated son of the
Armenian Nation and we are all grateful.
We also wish Hovnan Srpazan a very
Happy Birthday
and congratulate all the honorees of 2019.
∑
Organization of
Istanbul Armenians

Gold
Sponsor
∑
Congratulations to the 16th Annual Christmas
Ball Honorees for their well-deserved
recognition and best Birthday wishes to our
dear Hovnan Srpazan, wishing him health
and continued zeal leading our Church
and community forward.
Merry Christmas everyone!
∑
Raffi, Silva, Aleena & Haig Kendirjian
Raffi H. Kendirjian, CRPC ® , ChFC ® , CFP ®
The Kendirjian Group
First Vice President
Wealth Management Advisor,
Senior Portfolio Advisor
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
800 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 400
Pasadena, CA 91101
T 626.356.2059
raffi.kendirjian@ml.com

Gold
Sponsor
∑
St. Gregory the Illuminator Apostolic
Church of Pasadena congratulates
∑
Mrs. Lena Simonian,
Dr. Andre Panossian,
Dr. Mark Kosker

Gold
Sponsor
∑
On behalf of the St. Peter Armenian
Apostolic Church, Van Nuys,
Parish Council and all Church organizations,
We would like to express our gratitude to
Barkev Hamalian and tonight’s honorees
on this joyous occasion.
We thank you for your dedication, wisdom and
compassion.
We celebrate and acknowledge the milestones
being honored today.
We wish our Primate
H. E. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
a Very Happy Birthday.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
∑
Archpriest Fr. Shnork Demirjian,
Parish Priest

Gold
Thank you Ara Kalfayan
for your generocity year after year
in hosting the honoree Sponsor kick-off gathering!
LAST YEARS
∑
Phoenicia

Silver
Sponsors
∑
Wishing Happy Birthday to Srpazan
Hovnan Derderian
and
Congratulations to all of the well
deserving Honorees
∑
Dr. & Mrs. Boris & Karine Bagdasarian
&
Dr. & Mrs. Nubar & Aline Boghossian
Congratulations!
Barkev Hamalian
Lena Simonian
Happy Birthday!
Abp. Hovnan Derderian
∑
Harry & Aida Chakarian

Silver
Sponsors
∑
Happy birthday to our dear Hovnan Srpazan.
Our family wishes you only the best and we pray
that God gives you continuous strength and
courage on your path! Congratulations
to all the 2019 honorees!
∑
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year everyone!
Dr. & Mrs. Nubar and Aida Sethian

Bronze
Sponsors
∑
Congratulations
to Western Diocese
in honoring our Professionals
who make valuable
contributions to our
∑
Armenian community
Merry Christmas
& Happy New Year to you all!
Congratulations to all the
2019 honorees especially
∑
Dr. Mark Kosker
Dr. Maral Dabagian
Anjargolian
Alin, Anna, Hilda,
Maral and Tamar
Congratulations
to the honorees!
Wishing them all the best on
their successful path in life
Happy Birthday to His
Eminence Archbishop
∑
Hovnan Derderian
Hagop & Angela
Parseghian

16 TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BALL
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Left to Right: Koko Aivazian, Jackie Ayzoukian, Naz Atikian, Mari Boghossian, Eric Boghossian, Vicken Sepilian M.D.,
Belet Shahbazian, Sarelle Janoian, Araxie Boyamian, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Raffi Kendirjian, Chair,
Hasmik Keyribarian, and Delilah Shahbazian
Not pictured: Lily Ring Balian, Hermine Janoyan, Mashdots Jobanian, Hagop Nalbandian M.D.,
Jack Janoian, Tony Aghvanian, Zaruhi Varpetian and Mirna Boghosian
The Christmas Ball Organizing Committee wishes to extend their deep
gratitude for the unwavering support and guidance of our dear
Primate, wishing him an abundance of health and long life.
Wishing everyone a Blessed Christmas
and a Healthy and Successful New Year!

GOT PRINT

Benefactor
Adventist Health Glendale is proud to support the
Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America
Adventist Health Glendale We congratulate is is proud to to support the the
Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of of North America
Dr. Arin Aboulian
We congratulate this year’s
well deserving honorees.
And all of this year’s well deserving honorees
We congratulate
Dr. Arin Aboulian
And all of this year’s well deserving honorees