Talk about glamour! This year’s 34th Navasartian Victory Banquet really set the tone for beauty and flare. This was the second year in a row that Homenetmen decided to host their event at CBS Studios in Studio City, California. It didn’t stop there. The entrance was set in a beautiful red carpet atmosphere with enough glitz to accommodate any celebrity.
Cocktail hour consisted of a delicious set of appetizers and a fully stocked bar. That’s not all! Guest were gathered all around to take pictures with Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, who enjoyed spending time with all the Armenian community members on such a happy occasion.
The atmosphere was exactly like an old classic Hollywood party, including the cigars, which were given in bundles to all the guests. Even so, none of that compared to how incredibly beautiful the designated “ballroom” was. With centerpieces that glowed with light, to the beautiful street the party took place on, there wasn’t a single thing missing from the setting that night. All the surrounding scenery was set like a movie, with lighting that would accentuate all the colors around. Everyone got to enjoy some nice music from Mosaic, while enjoying their dinner.
Roger Kupelian, who set aside his major production of East of Byzantium for the special evening, thought the entire thing was put together very well and went on to say, “It seemed like a very mature event. The choice of venue, on a movie set, was a good touch. It’s unique way to frame an Armenian event.” “Mature” is a perfect way to describe the evolution of the Homenetmen Western Region. They spend countless hours giving to the people of their community by having an organization that carries such a strong prestige. The Navasartian Victory Banquet is clear evidence of that.
This year’s program was definitely a nice and enjoyable one. Opening remarks were given by 31st Honorary President Elizabeth Boyajian and Master of Ceremonies was Charlie Ghailian. Vice-Chairman Hovig Bedevian presented the 2009 Exemplary Member award to Zakar Chorbajian, who was honored with a video montage of all his years of involvement in the Homenetmen. With a final few words from Chairman Steve Artinian, the crowd gathered on the dance floor and boogied down to music by DJ Vic, from Hi Energy Productions.
Attendees such as Mher Tavidian said, “The best part is when we get to get together and enjoy the hard work we do as a team, as a community.” That’s exactly what everyone did; they celebrated their hard work, dedication and got to be like glamorous celebrities for a magical evening.