LOS ANGELES—The Ladies Society of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Los Angeles sponsored a luncheon on Sunday, April 29, honoring Arpi Barsam and Jeanette Rakoobian in recognition of their life-time of service and unwavering support for their church and the Armenian community. Approximately 200 guests were in attendance at the John Gogian Hall to celebrate and pay tribute to the “Ladies of the Year.”
Leann Stepanian, Chair of the Ladies Society, welcomed the guests, and expressed her thanks to the capacity crowed for joining with the parish in acknowledging their dedication and distinguished record of service to the church. Lily Balian, Master of Ceremonies, introduced the program which was performed by family and friends of the honorees. It was a star studded performance, beginning with classical selections by talented pianist Jamie Hom, granddaughter of Jeannette Rakoobian; world renowned vocalist, Lena Beylarian, sister of Arpi Barsam, delighted the audience with traditional Armenian songs; Maral Varjabedian held everyone’s rapt attention with her Armenian recitations; and the climax was an enchanting dance performance by the
amazing and beautiful Hamaskayin Ani Dancers.
Touching moments were provided by remarks of the children and relatives of the recipients. Tina, Raffi and Helena, Arpi Barsam’s children; Tracy Hom, daughter of Jeanette Rakoobian, and Madelyn Dawson and Sandra Barnes, cousins of Jeanette Rakoobian, spoke glowingly of their love and admiration for these two great
women and leaders of our community.
Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian, Parish Priest, presented a Certificate of Commendation to Arpi and Jeanette from His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, in recognition of their exemplary service, love and devotion to their church. Leann Stepanian, on behalf of the Ladies Society, presented each of them with a beautiful silver frame. The event concluded with the honorees thanking everyone for their love, friendship and support and a memorable afternoon.
