BURBANK—More than 250 people attended the sixth annual Armenian National Committee of America, Burbank (ANCA-B) banquet at Ambrosia banquet hall on Friday, May 31.
At the event, the contributions of John Krikorian, Marsha Ramos, Timmy Mardirosian and Woodbury University to the Burbank community were honored. Montebello City Councilmember Jack Hadjinian was the Master of Ceremonies. The surprise arrival of Congressman Adam Schiff, capped a great evening for all attendees.
The evening presented an opportunity for individuals and organizations in the community to meet with Burbank officials and supporters of the ANCA-B and discuss the range of activities – from college fairs, Armenian Genocide recognition programs, and continuous voter-registration efforts – and raise funds that make these programs and activities possible. “It was a pleasure to bring together members of the Armenian-American community of Burbank with the individuals and organizations that have helped the various events and projects come to life in the past year,” said Armond Aghakhanian, the chair of the banquet organizing committee.
In attendance were various local, state, and national elected officials, including Burbank City Council members Mayor Emily Gabel-Luddy, Vice-Mayor, Dr. David Gordon, Bob Frutos, and Jess Talamantes. The newly-elected Burbank City Treasurer Debbie Kukta and City Clerk Zizette Mullins also joined the festivities. The Burbank Board of Education was represented by members Dave Kemp, Roberta Reynolds, Charlene Tabet, Ted Bunch, and Larry Applebaum.
Representatives from the offices of State Assemblyman Mike Gatto, State Senator Carol Liu, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich were also present and offered letters of recognition for the honorees. In his address Congressman Schiff recognized the honorees and thanked the ANCA for its continued service to the community.
“The broad representation of our political and civic leaders at this year’s event demonstrates the important role the ANCA-B plays in engaging the Armenian-American community,” said Zareh Khachatourian, Acting Director of ANCA-B. “It was a pleasure to speak to the attendees about the benefits of our programs not only for the Armenian-American community, but for all of Burbank.”
The sold-out crowd joined together to pay tribute to the evening’s honorees. The late John Krikorian’s was received by his son, Greg Krekorian. Mr. Krikorian was presented with a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of community service as the founder and publisher of “Business Life” and “Senior Living” magazines.
Former Mayor of Burbank, Marsha Ramos, was presented with the Citizen of the Year Award for her contribution to the passing of Measure S in March, and her involvement in multiple Burbank organizations.
Timmy Mardirosian was presented with the Business Civic Leadership Award for his continued support of the community, and constant focus on increasing opportunities for youth.
Finally, Woodbury University was named Organization of the Year for its role in educating the Armenian American community, through projects such as the “Rebirth Humanitarian Scholarship” for its students.
The Armenian National Committee of America, Burbank advances the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of the area’s Armenian American community and promotes increased Armenian American civic participation at the grassroots and public policy levels.
