On Sat., Nov. 9, Homenetmen Boston celebrated its 40th anniversary with hundreds of supporters at an elegant gala that featured dining, dancing, and a shared cause, at the Burlington Sheraton. The Boston chapter’s story dates back to 1973, and many in the room that night were original members of the pioneer Eastern Region chapter. Engrained with the DNA of the motto “Partsatserr, Partsatsour,” Homenetmen Boston has grown and kept the spirit alive even 40 years later—with the longstanding partnership of the Boston community, with loyal members who worked hours on and off the fields, the parents who attended, and those who are with us today and those who are not. Homenetmen Boston is encouraged and motivated to serve the Boston community and be a catalyst in raising the Armenian youth in the region.
After the cocktail hour, the evening’s festivities began with the singing of the American national anthem by Alique Khatchikian, the “Mer Hairenik” by Sarine Mahroukian and Angela Hajjar, and “Harach Nahadag,” as the scouts marched in to the pulse of the beating drums.
The master of ceremonies, Vicken Khatchadourian, invited the executive members to the stage for their keynote talks. “Forty years since we have been passing the torch from generation to generation, from vartchtyun to vartchtyun, with unconditional support, hard work, and dedication,” said Jack Bejakian, the Boston executive chairman. Hratch Mesrobian, the Homenetmen Central Executive representative, reminded guests about the honor and spirit of the organization and how 40 years of excellence is a tribute not only to the members but also the support of the communities we serve.
Honoring Y. Bedig
Khatchadourian invited the last honoree of the evening, which was a surprise to all those gathered, including the honoree himself: Y. Bedig Dervartanian. Y. Bedig joined the Boston Homenetmen chapter in 1982 after serving in his native Aleppo, Syria. He had an instant effect on the chapter and its members, serving on local executives and committees. Later, he attended the Homenetmen World Convention in 1999 as an invitee, and again in 2011 as a representative. He served the last years of his tenure on the Regional Executive as a true consummate member of his beloved Homenetmen. Y. Bedig’s dedication and unconditional support for the Homenetmen over the past 30 years deserved recognition. He was taken aback when his name was called, and humbly accepted the Honorary Member Award and the plaque gifted by the local executive.
As Der Antranig Baljian blessed the room with his final prayers, the celebration continued with Jaq Hagopian and Garo Gomidas, as members filled the dance floor in true celebratory fashion.
Surprised that an organization that was celebrating their 40th anniversary that had many of the founding members there….couldn’t honor any of the original founders but a member that has always been honored…