GLENDALE, CA – The Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region (ANCA-WR) hosted a Christmas party on December 21, 2005 at Carousel Restaurant to thank its supporters and activists for all they have done throughout the year to help advance the Armenian Cause. Over one hundred of the ANCA-WR’s supporters and activists came to hear about the organization’s accomplishments in 2005 and plans for 2006.

“Without the continued support and activism from the Armenian American community, we would not be able to achieve all that we do,” said Steven Dadaian, Chairman of the ANCA-WR. “It is important to recognize the community’s sacrifices in helping advance Hai Tahd.”

2005 was full of challenges and opportunities for the Armenian Cause. Armenian Americans worldwide marked the 90th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and witnessed major strides forward in achieving proper recognition for this crime against humanity. The year also brought increased involvement in federal, state, and local elections with an increasing number of Armenians participating in the electoral process and running for elected offices.

The ANCA-WR was on the front lines of promoting the interests of the Armenian American community. Some of the main initiatives that the ANCA-WR planned for and accomplished in 2005 were to lead Armenian Genocide recognition efforts throughout the western United States, help establish the State of California’s International Trade and Investment Office in Yerevan, and support Armenian Genocide education programs and teacher training within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The ANCA-WR will continue to advance issues of concern to Armenian Americans in 2006 by focusing on gaining proper recognition and justice for the Armenian Genocide, working to strengthen the viability of the Republics of Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, and promoting and protecting the rights of Armenian Americans.

The ANCA is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots political organization. Working in coordination with a network of offices, chapters, and supporters throughout the United States and affiliated organizations around the world, the ANCA actively advances the concerns of the Armenian American community on a broad range of issues.

Photo Captions:

Photo 1:ANCA-WR donors and supporters Miro Khanzadian, Nayiri Nahabedian, Vicky and Harout Marashlian amongst the revelers at the Christmas party.

Photo 2:ANC PN activists gathered at the ANCA WR Christmas Party.

Photo 3:Glendale School Board member Greg Krikorian, Superior Court Judge Zaven Sinanian and ANC Burbank activist Peter Musurlian were among the special guests at the reception.

Photo 4:A scene from the ANCA Western Region Christmas reception.