On December 26, 2010, a celebration of the 100-th anniversary of the Armenian Relief Society took place in the Cultural House of Akhaltsekha. The function was opened by the spiritual shepherd of Akhaltsekha, Father Tigran Mkhitarian with the Lord’s Prayer. The flags of Armenia, Georgia and the ARS were carried into the hall – accompanied by the Hymns – in the presence of officials presenting the Samtskhe-Javakhetia governor, the City Hall of Akhaltsekha, principals of schools, ARS members from various regions as well as reporters. ARS of Georgia Chairperson, Karine Tadevosian greeted guests and audience expressing good wishes for a prosperous New Year and a merry Christmas. She started her address by congratulating everyone for the ARS Centennial, then gave a concise accounting of the 100 year accomplishments of the centenarian Society and its future plans. The Chairperson also expressed her best wishes upon the fourth anniversary of the Akhaltsekha Armenian Youth Center, then, honored two veteran members of ARS/Georgia, ungeruhis Ophelia Keyan of Akhaltsekha and Emma Antonian of Ninotzminda, with citations of meritorious service. The Akhaltsekha Armenian Youth Center “Gohanamq” song and dance ensemble entertained the festive and appreciative audience, meriting its enthusiastic applause. In between the performances, the masters of ceremonies described the meaningful and constructive work of the ARS in Javakhk, as well as abroad. Until the start of the concert, an exhibit of the handywork of the Youth Center’s “Expert Hands” youth group was organized in the reception hall of the Akhaltsekha Cultural Center. The Youth Center director, Veronica Hambarian gave a brief report on the creation of the Center and the groups of youngsters actively involved in its programs. She concluded by thanking ARS/Georgia for organizing and promoting this function. Well acquainted with and appreciative of ARS activities and its close cooperation with the Armenian Apostolic Church, The Rev. Father Manouk, representing the Georgian-Armenian See, congratulated the ARS members, all the mothers, sisters and daughters, upon the completion of the Centenary and the continuous efforts towards perpetuating Armenianism in the region. Members of the audience had words of appreciation for the accomplishments of the Center and its director and instructors. The entire function was enhanced by the creative performance of its youthful masters of ceremonies, resulting in a totally satisfied audience.

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