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MEETING WITH PRIMATE OF GEORGIA

ARS Regional Executive chairperson Arminée Karabetian along with Vartoug Bezdjian met with His Grace Bishop Vazken Mirzakhanian, Primate of Armenian Apostolic Church of Georgia, on Thursday, November 6, 2008 at the Armenian Diocese of Canada where His Grace Bishop Bagrat Galstanian hosted the guests. Bishop Mirzakhanian spoke very highly of the ARS projects in Javakhk and he encouraged visitors to Armenia to make an effort to visit Javakhk as well.
ARS SOCIAL SERVICES





ANNUAL BAZAAR AT MONTREAL SOSSE CHAPTER






ANNUAL BAZAAR AT TORONTO ROUBINA CHAPTER
ARS Roubina Chapter had its Annual Bazaar’s opening on November 7, 2008. The Bazaar continued for 3 days and ended on Sunday, November 9, 2008.

A wide selection of gift wares including gifts from Armenia, huge collection of costume jewelry, silent Auction and variety of baked goods and spices from Aleppo, including delicious Armenian dishes and desserts were part of the displays.


Santa Claus visited and took pictures with the children and chapter members. Different games were organized for children so they could get busy while their parents were doing their x-mas shopping.

ARMENIA VISIT

A group of 36 from Canada visited Armenia and Artsakh in September 2008. The highlights of this tour were: Attending the Armenia-Turkey soccer game, a musical performance in Keghart and tour of Etchmiadzin museum. Another great evening was enjoyed by the group when the Bedagan singing group (36 singers) came and performed for the group n Stepanakert’s Armenia hotel.

The standard tours took place starting with Dzidzernakapert and the museum, Yeraplour where we visited Sosse mayrig’s tomb, Karni and Keghart, Erebouni museum, Gumri, Akhourian Mor ou Mangan health centre and Tsitoghians museum, Dilijan, Goshavank, Lake Sevan, Khor Virap, and Noravank where we paid our respects to the late Dicran Hadjetian’s tomb. The group spent a night in Jermuk, then continued to Shoushi and Stepanakert, we visited ARS Sosse Kindergartens and Kantsasar Monastery.

All returned with great memories and vowed to return to Armenia but only with ARS organized tours.
ARAGAST CHAPTER VOLUNTEERS GET REWARDED
The members of the Aragast chapter have been volunteering their time at the Wellspring cancer support centre (Halton-Peel) for the past five years. This past June, the chapter was invited to a volunteer appreciation dinner, where they were pleasantly surprised by being presented with a special recognition for their services. The chapter was given a plaque, which reads, “Wellspring Halton-Peel wishes to acknowledge the long standing contribution of the Armenian Relief Society”
	Appearing in the photo are (from left to right): Judy Perry Brixkert SSSS (Regional Director – Wellspring) Rima Karavas Seda Petrosian Achik Arzoomanian Nikee Bahrabadi Kenarik Baghdassarian

GARAGE SALE IN MONTREAL

The Garage sale took place on Saturday May 17, 2008 at the Montréal Armenian Community Centre. It was a sunny day and several ungerouhies helped and so many more brought nice things to sell.


ARS Toronto Chapter Walkathon to raise funds for Mother and Child Birthing Center in Armenia and for the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto
Men and women, young and old came out in the hundreds for the A.R.S. Walkathon that took place on Sunday, June 22, 2008. The community came out to get a little fresh air, exercise and of course more nobly to raise funds for a Mother and Child Birthing Center in Armenia and for the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.

The registration desk already had a line up at 10:00am where people came to turn in their pledges, get a shirt, hat, bottled water and instructions. The walkathon started on time at just past 11:00am and most people completed the 6.5 km route in less than 2 hours. Toronto police services provided an escort of three police cars to insure the participants had a safe journey as the route incorporated some of the busiest streets in Toronto. The walk started at the Armenian Community Centre, went north on Victoria Park Ave to Finch Ave, east on Finch to Pharmacy Ave, south on Pharmacy to Sheppard Ave, and then back south down Victoria Park Ave to the ACC.

Once everyone made it back to the ACC, a group photo was taken and the participants were treated to a pizza lunch. The walkathon turned into a very successful community event and the organizing committee wishes to thank all those who helped out.




A.R.S. DAY IN MONTREAL & LAVAL

Annie Ohanian, Keynote Speaker of the event	Ara Palandjian receiving HOM allocation for year 2007-2008
Armenian Relief Society Montreal Sosse and Laval Shoushi Chapters celebrated ARS Day on Sunday May 4th at Montreal Armenian Community Centre, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Hagopian, Prelate. The event was presided by Mrs. Nouritsa Matosian and Laval Shoushi Chapter celebrated the 15th anniversary of its inception. The speaker of the evening was Mrs. Annie Ohanian of Laval and the event MC was Maria Dolmajian. The annual report and Sourp Hagop Armenian School annual allocation was presented by chapter chairpersons.

The organizing committe of the ARS Day event.

A.R.S. SEMINAR IN VANCOUVER

	The speakers, ungerouhiner Clara Agopian from Vancouver and Angel Bedrossianfrom Laval.






ARS VANCOUVER - 30th ANNIVERSARY



A.R.S. MEMORIAL DAY - 2008



MONTREAL "SOSSE" CHAPTER'S CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY

The Armenian Relief Society Montreal “Sosse” Chapter hosted a Children’s Christmas Party on Saturday December 8, 2007 at Aharonian Hall in the Montreal Community Center. This year’s event began with Breakfast with Santa and Mother Claus followed by a concert by a very special guest “Maggie”, Armenian children’s entertainer. As Maggie performed her hits for the crowd, our little guests sang, clapped and danced alongside Maggie and her friends. It was delights seeing our little “stars” participate in this very special Christmas concert. This event would not have been possible without the help of some very special people. We wish to extend a big ‘thank you’ to the dancers from Hamazkayin dance group who played Clown, Gadou, Mgneeg, Nabasdag and Shneeg as well as the very talented folklore dancers who brightened the stage and entertained us all. And who could forget Santa and Mother Claus who arrived with a sleigh full of toys for all the kids! Thank you Gaghant Baba and Gaghant Mama! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and until next year! Armenian Relief Society Montreal “Sosse” Chapter Children’s Christmas Party Committee


ARS CANADA MEETS WITH WORLD VISION CANADA

ARS Regional Executive chairperson Arminee Karabetian met with World Vision Canada delegation at the Armenian Prelacy of Canada, to discuss future projects.
A SEMINAR ON ADDICTIONS
Knowledge begets power. This was the driving value for ARS Montreal Sosse and Laval Shoushi Chapters who hosted a seminar entitled “A Professional Approach to Addictions” on Saturday October 13, 2007. In their opening remarks, the chairperson of the organizing committee Loucine Palanjian and Event Coordinator Dania Ohanian echoed the organization’s goal of raising awareness with an aim at prevention. The setting, both intimate and informal, made it easy for the audience to interact with the guest speakers who succeeded at demystifying common myths through clear facts and many examples from their own field experiences. In a workshop format, Mr. Stephan Cormier of La Maison Jean Lapointe discussed the issue of gambling addiction and responsible gaming. We learned that any form of gambling, be it a lottery ticket, slot machines, sports betting, Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs), poker in the basement is a game of chance. Only one thing is for sure, we all have more chances of losing than of winning – the games are just set up that way! The difficulty with gambling addiction is that it is easily hidden because there are no physical symptoms and often families do not know their loved one has a problem until it is too late. A little known fact about (VLTs) is that the grand prize is $500 at any given time. Yet, people bet with “virtual money” through credit cards for amounts that far exceed the grand prize.


A recent survey of teenagers showed that 80% of teens polled admit to gambling at least once. Teenagers are lured to online gambling sites that are set up as virtual tutorials. However, once the game tells them they have become like “experienced” players, they are invited to play for money. Online gambling is illegal in Canada. If gambling is not the only source of social activity, and if it is not done in isolation, it is possible to play responsibly. It is important to can set a realistic budget and time for playing. Sergeant Raffi Hadjian of Sûreté du Québec presented the rules and sanctions for drinking and driving. In 2006, 40% of deaths on Quebec roads were related to alcohol. Anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol level over 0.08 will be fined, risks having his automobile impounded; his driver’s license suspended and will be tried in court. Quebec has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol for anyone driving with a learner’s permit or probationary license. Sergeant Hadjian also shared his experiences working as an undercover officer in local high schools. Marijuana is of growing concern in schools and there is active police work going into identifying users and dealers in schools. Possession of marijuana is illegal with fines starting at $1000 for possession amounts deemed for personal use. The main ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Regular use of this substance is associated with depression, loss of will, memory loss and concentration problems. And, like tobacco smoking; smoking marijuana can cause cancerous tumors. Liza Libarian, psychologist, shared her field experiences regarding drug and alcohol addiction. Addiction, especially to hard drugs, is usually a secondary problem, a symptom of a much larger problem. These substances are often used to numb painful life events that leave a person feeling worthless and are often seen in cases of negligence, abandonment, serious marital discord or abuse. In order to help the problem of drug and alcohol addiction, it is important to deal with the underlying cause. In her closing remarks, Liza encouraged the audience to listen to their children, to set reasonable limits and to keep them close. We wish to thank the guest speakers, all those who attended and a special thanks to all of our dedicated volunteers. Without your help, this event would not be possible. Aline Boghosian-Panikian

ARS CANADA WALK-A-THON FOR ARMENIA
The Regional Executive of the Armenian Relief Society of Canada, in collaboration with Montreal Sosse and Laval Shoushi chapters, organized a Walk-a-Thon to benefit Akhourian Birth Center in Armenia (Mor-Mangan getron) and Quebec Fondation de la recherche sur les maladies infantiles.


The event took place on June the 2nd 2007. We walked from 11:00 o'clock from Marché Central via l'Acadie to the Armenian Community Center on 3401 Olivar Asselin, Montreal.

WITH BARONESS CAROLINE COX


THE ARS REGIONAL SEMINAR IN HAMILTON, ONTARIO 27-29 April, 2007

SCENES FROM THE SEMINAR

THE ARS MONTREAL "SOSSE" CHAPTER CELEBRATES THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ITS FOUNDING

The Armenian Relief Society Montreal “Sosse” Chapter 50th anniversary celebration banquet took place at Montreal Armenian community Centre, on May 5th, 2007. Over 400 people attended the event. The event was opened by a torch ceremony given to the younger generation by the founding members.

The guest speaker of the event was ungerouhi Vanouhi Issachanian. The MC of the event was ungerouhi Loucine Palandjian. Mrs. Elizabeth Harboyan sung 2 songs and Mrs. Talar Harboyan Kalloghlian accompanied her on piano. Miss Perouz Taslakian recited a poem dedicated to the Homouhies. Ungerouhi Maro Froundjian, ARS Central Committee member and ungerouhi Anna Boulgarian, ARS Canada Regional Executive chairperson, both congratulated the chapter on its 50th anniversary and praised members for decades of achievements. Ungerouhi Flora Guiragossian, chairperson of the chapter, thanked the community for their ongoing support and commitment to the mission of the organization. The founding members of the chapter were honored with gold pins. Members who served the chapter for 15, 25, 35, 50 and 60 years were honored as well. In His Blessing, Archbishop Khajag Hagopian, Prelate, praised chapter’s hard work and dedication to the Armenian people.


MEETING WITH THE FOREIGN MINISTER OF ARMENIA
	The Armenian Relief Society Canada Regional Executive met with Mr. Vartan Oskanian, the Foreign Minister of Armenia, at the Armenian Embassy in Ottawa, on 17 October 2006.

HAPPY 15th ANNIVERSARY "ARAKASD" CHAPTER!

The ARS "Arakasd" Chapter of Mississauga celebrated its 15th anniversary on the 15th of October, 2006, with the members of the ARS Regional Executive.

ARS "ARAZ" SCHOOL, VANCOUVER - 1st LEVEL

ARS "ROUBINA" CHAPTER, TORONTO AWARDED
During the Independence Day Celebration of Republic of Armenia on Sunday, September 17, 2006 at Armenian Community Centre 45 Hallcrown Place, Toronto ARS “Roubina” Chapter was honored for their continuous contribution to Armenia’s Path of Progress. Zohrab Tatigian, the Executive of A.R.F. Tehlirian Chapter, Toronto, presented the award to Laura Mavlian, chair of A.R.S. Roubina Chapter.

In the centre, Mrs. Marineh Vardanyan, one of the guest of honors of the Independence Day Celebration, surrounded by ARS, Regional and ARS “Roubina” Chapter, Toronto Executive Committees	ARS “Roubina” Chapter, Toronto Executive Committee 2006-07-20 Recipient of Award

ARS AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE ANCC NEW HEADQUARTERS

Armenian Relief Society Regional Executive and chapter members at the Armenian National Committee of Canada (ANCC) office in Ottawa, during the official opening ceremony of the new headquarters.
HOM ARS Day - May 7, 2006

Award recipients	Speaker Mher Karakashian
The HOM ARS Day in Montreal was celebrated at the Armenian Community Center, on May 7, 2006. The master of Ceremonies was Ms Taline Abrakian and the keynote speaker was Mr Mher Karakashian. The Sourp Hagop Choir presented songs, Alina Israhelian played the piano while Lilit Israhelian plyed the violin, and Perouz Taslakian recited a poem.
Comedy Night May 11
	The organizers, the comedian, and ARS Sosse chapter chairperson
The Armenian Relief Society, locally and on a global scale, continuously brings aid where needed. Its reputation and success is entirely based on the work of its selfless and devoted members who never shy away from a challenge. But unfortunately, youth only composes a small percentage of its members. A few months ago, the ARS Sosse chapter enlisted the help of a group of Armenian university students to organise an event with the aim of attract youth to the ARS. On last Thursday night, May 11^th, the ARS held a comedy show at the Aharonian. The MC was Ankine Kherigian and the special guest was Rafi Demirjian from Los Angeles. Opening speeches were made to illuminate the public on the dual purpose of the evening, on the one hand to promote the good work of the ARS and to incite the new generation of Armenians to get involved. Armig Yaghejian, the first guest speaker, gave a brief history of the organisation and recounted the momentous events marking its past. Loucine Palanjian, the chairperson of the ARS Sosse chapter, then explained the motivation behind the entire event: to get youth involved and to encourage them to join the ranks of thousands of Armenians already members of the ARS. The ARS not only represents a chance to make a positive contribution to the community, but also an opportunity to travel, to receive financial support to pursue higher education and countless other advantages. These speeches were followed by a short film which captured the essence of the ARS: bringing Armenians together to do good. The video showed images of ARS members and their large numbers in the various countries around the world. Nostalgia filled the air, as the more than two-hundred audience members cheered for their countries of origin. Finally, Maria Keusseyan introduced the special guest comedian of the evening. Rafi Demirdjian is a young university student, but once he disguises himself as the female character he has developed for his comedy show, he becomes “Digin Marie”. His witty skit was a satire of the traditional Armenian woman, who spends her days cooking, cleaning, complaining about her husband and gossiping on the telephone. Being from L.A., he modified his monologue to include names of people and places the Montreal audience would be familiar with, which was a much appreciated personal touch. For example, Digin Marie swaps recipes and cooking ingredients with other Armenian girlfriends at Femme Fitness while walking on the treadmill. Indeed, food is always on an Armenian mother’s mind, even at the gym! His show was hilarious because every person in the room could relate to the jokes. We all have an Armenian mother, aunt or grandmother that Digin Marie reminds us of. The event, the result of a united and collaborative effort between old and new blood, was a complete success. On behalf of the team, I would like to thank Rafi Demirdjian for his enthusiasm, the public who came to support the ARS, and above all the ARS ladies who generously contributed time, effort and money to make the event as enjoyable as possible. It was not only a learning experience, but also an inspiring one. I hope the future generations of the ARS will work as passionately and tirelessly as its present members.
ARS Canada’s 15^th Seminar Saturday, April 22 2006, Gananoque Inn

The coach bus filled with 55 “homouhies” plus a van and a car with ten “homouhies” left Montreal around 7:15 am. We arrived in Gananoque a little before 10. While mingling and drinking coffee with muffins and banana bread in the conference room with a superb scenery, (even though it was raining) 30 engerouhis from Toronto joined us around 10:30. We were right on schedule! At 11, eng. Zépure Assadourian welcomed us and talked briefly about the importance of health; how exercise and nutrition play an enormous role in our lives. She then gave the stage to eng. Hasmig Jandou from Toronto who introduced the first speaker of the day: Dr. Sona Ouzounian Tahan. Dr. Ouzounian studied in Lebanon and practiced family medicine from 1967 to 1986. She then concentrated more on Eastern medicine practices. She later went to China and obtained her degree in Acupuncture. She now practices both medicines and is also the president of the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada. Dr. Ouzounian started her very interesting and informative speech by questioning us: “What makes you feel good? What makes you feel healthy? Most of the audience was actively participating in this lively discussion; nearly each person had an answer! Right from the start, everyone felt involved. Throughout the speech, the speaker was vibrant, modest and even funny at times! Dr. Ouzounian had prepared slides to introduce the world of Acupuncture. She concentrated on the ENERGY that acupuncture releases by showing us the importance of Yin and Yang in Chinese medicine. For one to be healthy, she said, Yin and Yang are descriptions of complementary opposites. They must feed one-another in order to balance the body. She added that acupuncture works most on pain and inflammation, such as arthritis. It makes the endorphin work just as exercise would. Although, in this case, it is used by connecting our channels. After two interesting hours and many questions, we went for lunch into the dinning area where the discussions about health would not cease.

At 2:15, back in our conference room, the next speaker, eng. Celine Kouyoumdjian was introduced by eng. Arminé Garabedian. Kouyoumdjian is a successful nutritionist with a full background that touches a variety of disciplines: from speaker on television to an active component for municipality projects. Celine started her speech by showing us her personal risk-taking side that surprised many. Once she had caught everyone’s attention, she then launched into stating how diets, and especially drastic diets, are very bad for our health. No one should starve themselves from eating because one would not survive without the important nutrients and vitamins that healthy food can offer. She then explained the daily recommended categories of different foods one should eat. Within these categories she gave examples of quantities. Her speech concentrated on the importance of one crucial supplement: OMEGA 3. Pregnant mothers would tremendously benefit from this since it will pass onto the feotus. The newborn will be more alert and he/she will be happier, healthier thus being a more optimistic baby! Moreover, the mother will remain further away from depression and post-partum. OMEGA 3 is found in many different foods such as spinach, algae and many different fish that swim in cold water. However, since the daily recommended dosage is high, it is much simpler to take the tablet. Celine stressed that to maintain mental and physical health, exercise and yoga should be added to good nutrition and supplements (such as OMEGA 3). Since the body needs the endorphin to work in order to function well. Our third and final speaker of the day, Chiropractor Paul Kalloghlian was introduced by eng. Noemie Yaghdjian. He has been a chiropractor for a few years and in private practice since 2004. Paul Kalloghlian divided his speech into two parts. The first being on Osteoporosis and how to treat it, and the second on Chiropractics. Osteoporosis does not just flare up when one reaches 60, he said. In a woman’s lifespan, starting at 35 one must treat and help bone-building. Kalloghlian suggested to feed our bodies with Calcium and to stay away from soft drinks, coffee and alcohol to reduce the risks of having osteoporosis. One must follow a healthy diet in order to maintain good physical health. Calcium is part of many green vegetables, tofu and even some nuts. However, once again, it is best when taking tablets to ensure the right amount of your daily dosage. Moreover, Calcium is best absorbed by the body when taken with Magnesium and Vitamin D. This does not necessarily mean three different tablets; some brands combine all three in one. As for the chiropractics, you must visit your chiropractor as soon as you have pain (back pain, neck pain, migraine…) One should not wait, because the longer you wait, the more difficult it will become to ease the pain. A chiropractor can also cure ear infections. This happens more often to children and it reoccurs many times. Children will benefit much more than constantly being on antibiotics. To conclude, it was truly an interesting day filled with very useful information that we all enjoyed. All three speakers received a well deserved gift: the book by Dr. Isabel Kaprielian Churchill “Like our Mountains”, as a token of appreciation. Tamar Kabassakalian Gosdanian

ARS day in Cambridge

MONTREAL SOSSE AND LAVAL SHOUSHI CHAPTERS CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
The Armenian Relief Society Montreal Sosse and Laval Shoushi Chapters celebrated International Women Day on March 12, 2006. The message of the speaker of the event, Mrs. Soline Chamlian, was the importance of the Armenian Schools. The mistress of ceremony of the event was Miss Houri Hayrabedian. During the celebration the following long-time dedicated members of ARS Canada were honoured: Mrs. Vera Bedirian, Mrs. Anna Boulgarian, Mrs. Verjine Dayian, Mrs. Nouritsa Matosian, and Mrs. Asdghig Sarafian.

International Women Day organizing committee, chapter executives and honourees.

The honourees, from left to right: A. Boulgarian, V. Dayian, V. Bedirian, A. Sarafian, N. Matosian	Ms Soline Chamlian	Ms Houri Hayrabedian
ARS TORONTO ROUBINA CHAPTER CELEBRATES ARS DAY

Maro Minassian, from the ARS Eastern Region and the former Chair of ARS Central Executive Committee, was the guest speaker, who first introduced the history of ARS since its foundation in 1910 in the New York City of U.S. Minassian mentioned that ARS was initially named Red Cross Society aiming to locate and save the Armenian orphans, who survived the genocide of 1915. The guest speaker also explained that ARS in collaboration with the Health and Education Ministries of Republic of Armenia has so far founded and supported over 10 “Sosseh” kindergartens in Gharabagh, and “Mother and Child Birthing Centre” in Armenia, sponsored over 4,500 orphans in Armenia and Gharabagh and provided medical and educational supplies to the Armenian communities in Javakhk area. In the 2nd part of the event, 30 dedicated ARS members, who served voluntarily 15, 20, 25, 35 and 60 were praised and honored by ARS decorative pins.
ARS CAMBRIDGE MEGHRI CHAPTER CELEBRATES EASTER

VARTANANTS COMMEMORATION

Vartanants commemoration organized by Montreal Sosse Chapter The Vartanank event took place on Thursday, February 23rd. More than 250 people attended the dinner, donated by HOM-ouhis. The guest speaker was Mher Karakachian. Students of Sourp Hagop Armenian School took part in the event with the following roles: Mari-Jebid Ghazarian, a poem Ann-Marie Manougian, violon Asdghig Esmerian-Geranian, a song Repega Nazarian, a poem The M.C. for the event was Alik Boulgarian
HOM MEMORIAL DAY

HOM Memorial Day with Sosse Chapter and Regional Executive Members

FAREWELL TO THE AMBASSADOR
A special reception was held in honour of His Excellency Ara Babian, the Ambassador to Canada of the Republic of Armenia, at the Aharonian Hall of the Armenian Community Centre in the afternoon of January 8, 2006. Representatives and members of all the sister organizations and committees, as well as members of the Montreal and Laval Armenian communities, were present to extend their gratitude and warm wishes to the outgoing Ambassador and his wife, Hripsime Babian.
The Armenian Relief Society Regional Executive presented His Excellency with a special gift as a gesture to the cooperation that the Ambassador and the ARS Family shared. In his address, Ambassador Babian said “I am certain that our relations weren’t only professional, but also personal ones,” and expressed hope that this existing cooperation will continue in Armenia.”

The Armenian Relief Society, Canada Regional Executive
with its ten chapters across Canada, donated $5000 to
the Canadian Red Cross for Katrina Relief fund.

ARS MONTREAL SOSSE CHAPTER BAZAR
The yearly event took place the weekend of November 12-13, 2005 at the Montreal Armenian Centre. The event Godmother was Mrs. Nevart Tachdjian, a long time dedicated chapter member. During the entire weekend, the event brought together more than 1000 ARS supporters. Proceeds from the event will be allocated to Sourp Hagop Armenian School, Sarafian Primary and Pastermadjian Secondary.

ARS CANADA REGIONAL EXECUTIVE
On the occasion of the 14th anniversary of the independence of Armenia, ARS Canada Regional Executive and chapters participated at the event with a donation towards the Embassy's building renovation fundraiser. The hospitality for the event was prepared by the Ottawa Sevan chapter.

Ambassador Ara Babian with Armenian Relief Society Central Executive, Canada Regional Executive and local chapter chairpersons.	Armenian Relief Society representatives at the Embassy for the 14th anniversary of the Independence of Armenia celebrations.


ARS Canada at the Prelacy Opening Ceremonies on May 14th, 2005

ARS Canada with its 10 chapters sponsor the administration office of the Prelacy building	Ms. Anna Boulgarian cutting the ribbon

MONTREAL "SOSSE" & LAVAL "SHOUSHI" ARS DAY CELEBRATIONS
Montreal and Laval chapters jointly celebrated ARS Day on May 1st, 2005

Recipients of 50th anniversary award of ARS Volunteer Work	Recipients of 25th anniversary award of ARS Volunteer Work

"Sosse" chairperson Lucy Chahinian and "Shoushi" chairperson Maral Hovsepian with Mr. Hagop Boulgarian, Sourp Hagop Armenian School Principal, who was honored on the 1600th anniversary of the Armenian Alphabet	Nairy Shahinian keynote speaker of ARS Day Celebration

Sourp Hagop Pastermadjian Secondary School students raised $5,000 for Armenian Relief Society Javakhk Fund	Maria Keuseyan, Master of Ceremonies at the ARS Day Celebration

OTTAWA "SEVAN" ARS DAY & MOTHER'S DAY CELEBRATION
Ottawa "Sevan" Chapter celebrated ARS Day and Mother's Day on May 7th

Children giving flowers to their moms	Ottawa ARS Executive with Ms. Anna Boulgarian

CAMBRIDGE "MEGHRI" ARS DAY & MOTHER'S DAY CELEBRATION
Cambridge "Meghri" Chapter celebrated ARS Day and Mother's Day together
	Saturday school children performing during the celebrations
	Standing from Left, The speaker of the day, Alice Kevorkian, The Meghri Chapter Chairperson Zvart Tatousian and the MC of the day Hasmig Haneshian

ARS CANADA REGIONAL EXECUTIVE
Annual Seminar Organized by the Regional Executive of the Armenian Relief Society of Canada, this year's annual seminar took place in Ottawa, on April 16 and 17, 2005 and was hosted by Ottawa Sevan Chapter. The topics were:
Women in Politics World-wide - presented by Nyree Derderian PhD. from Los Angeles, California Women's status in Armenia today - presented by Mrs. Hripsime Babian, left (wife of the Ambassador of Armenia to Canada)
The participating Chapters were: Ottawa Sevan, Mississauga Arakasd, Montreal Sosse, Cambridge Meghri, Laval Shoushi, and Toronto Roubina. More than 130 members and guests were present at the Seminar.

ARS CANADA REGIONAL EXECUTIVE
The Armenian Relief Society Canada Regional Executive yearly seminar took place in April 16-18, 2004, in St-Catharines, Ontario. The lecturers were Dr. Roupina Peroomian and Ms. Lara Cholakian Doudaklian and they talked about "The Armenian Identity - Crisis or Metamorhosis of the concept."

Dr. Roupina Peroomian	Ms. Anna Boulgarian & Ms. Lara Cholakian Doudaklian

ARS Canada Regional Executive visited Ottawa to celebrate mother's day event organized by the ARS Ottawa Sevan Chapter at the Armenian Embassy. Present at the event were chapter representatives from Montreal and Laval.
MONTREAL & LAVAL CHAPTERS

On May 2, 2004 ARS Montreal & Laval chapters celebrated Armenian Relief Society Day in the Montreal Armenian Centre where more than 400 supporters were present at the event. The event was presided by Mrs. Anahid Markarian and the key note speaker of the event was Ms. Seta Krikorian.
MONTREAL SOSSE CHAPTER

Four new members joined ARS Montreal Sosse Chapter, when they gave their oath during chapter general meeting. Congratulations and Welcome!
ST. CATHERINES "ARAZ" CHAPTER
A Unique Endeavor in St. Catharines: Armenian Relief Society Araz Chapter is proud and pleased to announce that they participated at the St. Catharines "Enchanted Evening" fashion show organized by St. Catharines Armenian Community Centre. All proceeds were donated to the local General Hospital Foundation for the ICU-PCU product expansion. A total of $6,000.00 was donated on behalf of the Armenian Community Centre. All members of the committee as well as the community worked tirelessly to put on a sold-out performance, selling over 250 tickets.
	The committee consisted of the following: Mary Balabanian Christine Kavazanjian Jenny Keshishian Arpy Khatcherian Charlotte KhatcherianTamar Khatcherian Jackie Lmandani Sarah Mazmanian Anni Ohanian
VANCOUVER "ARAZ" CHAPTER
During Mrs. Anna Boulgarian's (ARS Regional Executive Chairperson) visit to the chapter, members held a special general meeting where various issues were discussed related to the chapter and its activities. On this special occasion, Mrs. Aghavni Papazian, who lives in a retirement home, joined the meeting, where her 94th birthday was celebrated by all members.
WINDSOR "ROUBINA" CHAPTER
2003-2004 Activities: Celebrated Thanksgiving in October, Armenian Christmas in January, St. Valentine in February, Lent in March, Hampartsoum in May, and will host Armenian Relief Society Regional Convention the weekend of July 1st.

MONTREAL & LAVAL CHAPTERS
Reception to honor Archbishop Khajag Hagopian Prelate of the Armenian Prelacy of Canada On March 1, 2004, ARS Canada Regional Executive and Montreal Sosse and Laval Shoushi Chapters were invited to a special reception in honor of His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Hagopian on becoming the Prelate of the Armenian Prelacy of Canada. We all wish His Eminence good health and best wishes!
	ARS Canada Regional Executive Montreal Board members and His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Hagopian

Montreal ARS Executive Board members and His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Hagopian

Laval ARS Shoushi Executive Board members and His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Hagopian
March 7, 2004 International Women Day Celebration in Montreal!
Each and every year, ARS Montreal and Laval chapters organize International Women Day to celebrate women and their accomplishments. As part of this unique event, it is a tradition to honor and acknowledge special women who throughout the years have given back to their communities. This year, Mrs. Maro Froundjian and Mrs. Rina Yemenidjian were the recipients of this year special recognition awards.

Award receioients Mrs. maro froundjian & Mrs Rina Yemenedjian with H.E. Ambassador Mr. & Mrs. Ara babaian	Montreal City Councilors with ARS Montreal and ARS Laval Chapter chairpersons. From left to right: Maral Hovsepian, Mary Deros, Hasmig Billali, Noushig Eloyan, Lucy Chahinian
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MONTREAL SOSSE CHAPTER
Every February, Armenians all over the world celebrate VARTANANTS to commemorate a historic battle that dates back to 451, when the Armenian army led by Vartan Mamigonian, after whose name the day is marked, was martyred on the Avarayr Battlefield with over 1000 of his soldiers. They were defending the Armenians faith and way of life from the Zoroastrian Persian King of the Sassanian Empire. This event is celebrated as a symbol of Armenian moral and political independence throughout the ages.

Sourp Hagop Elementary School students performing at the Vartanants celebration
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LAVAL SHOUSHI CHAPTER
September The first event on the ARS Laval Shoushi Chapter's calendar was a pot-luck supper for Javaghk, which raised $1,000.00 October The annual Thanksgiving event was held on October 8th. Mrs. Baydsar Avedikian presented a lecture on the Armenian Thanksgiving traditions and rituals. The Chapter held a Halloween Dance on the 30th of October. During the event, chapter members presented a short play. November In collaboration with the Executive Committee of the Armenian Centre of Laval, the chapter commemorated the 5th anniversary of the purchase of our community center. The joyous event was held on the 15th of the month. December Christmas came a little early for the children of Laval Community Centre, when Santa Claus dropped by for a quick visit on the 21st of the month. January On January 14, 2004, the chapter welcomed the New Year by a hosting a Christmas/ New Year party for members and friends. On January 24th, the educational sub-committee of the chapter held a workshop on "The Assertiveness Formula." The workshop was presented by Mrs. Sose Menagian Chamlian. February In collaboration with St. Kevork Armenian Apostolic Church Board of Trustees, VARTANANTS celebration took place on February 19th. The speaker of the event was Ms. Seta Krikorian. A Requiem service in memoriam for ARS Family deceased benefactors and members.

ARS Regional Executive AID TO IRAQ Fundraiser

H O L I D A Y A C T I V I T I E S

Montréal Sossé Chapter's New Year's celebration for children
Mrs. Zépure Lulu, the decorator of the Armenian Christmas Tree at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts

ARS Canada PARTICIPATED AT THE UNITED NATIONS
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CONFERENCE
8-10 SEPTEMBER, 2003

ARS Canada Regional participated at the United Nations ECOSOC Conference in New York City from 8-10 September, 2003.

The topic of the conference was Human Security and Dignity: Fulfilling the Promise of the United Nations and Micro-Finance: Empowering Women and Persons with Disabilities Toward Economic Security. 6o people participated at the workshops.

ARS Canada was represented by Arpi Dolmajian, Karine Arakelian, Lalai Manjikian, Lori Hovsepian, Talin Sahagian and Tina Sulahian.

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Laval "Shoushi" Chapter's 10th anniversary celebrations

ARS Canada Montreal Sosse Chapter and Laval Shoushi chapters organized and celebrated ARS DAY on May 3, 2003 in Montreal. The keynote speaker of the event was Mr. Hagop Der Khatchadourian.

The event was resided by Mrs. Roza Boulgarian, a Montreal resident and Sosse Chapter long time and dedicated member. During the event, ARS Central Executive, ARS Canada Regional Executive and Sosse and Shoushi chapters donated a total of $113,000.00 to Sourp Hagop Armenian School of Montreal. The contributions were part of pledges by ARS family.


A scene from the seminar in Montreal, organized by the ARS Central Executive	Mr. Atom Egoyan and Ms. Arsinee Khanjian being honoured at the seminar

A two-day seminar organized by the Central Executive (CE) of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS, Inc.) convened on March 28 in Montreal at the Armenian Center Aharonian Hall. The seminar attracted 350 ARS members from the United States, Canada and South America.

Mrs. Maro Froundjian, the Regional Executive chairperson of ARS Canada, conveyed the region's message, while ARS CE chairperson, Mrs. Maro Minassian spoke about the importance of the seminar.

The evening Banquet, the chairperson of the ARS CE Maro Minassian honoured Mr. Atom Egoyan, a filmmaker, and Ms. Arsinee Khanjian, an actress, who then addressed the gathering. Minassian presented the newly estab- lished ARS "Ararat" honour - a stone plaque, to Egoyan.

Before moving to lectures, the seminar viewed a video of the daily life of students at ARS-sponsored kindergartens in Armenia.

After the viewing, ARS CE member Houri Najarian introduced the first lecturer Nairi Derderian, who presented a slide show titled "Volunteer organizations in the 21st century."

The accountant for the ARS CE George Katsarakis, gave the second lecture on "Fundraising and financial undertakings of non-profitable organizations."

After lunch, participants visited the St. Hagop secondary Armenian School, during which time principal Hagop Bulgarian expressed his gratitude for ARS's constant support. ARS CE chair Maro Minassian presented a $15,000 for a pledge made earlier in the year.

At the afternoon session, the principal of the Toronto Armenian school Raffi Doudaklian presented a lecture, in Armenian, on the "preservation of Armenian culture in Armenian schools," tying in a selection from Vahe Berbarian's "In the Name of the Father and the Son" about an Armenian father who wills 3,000 Armenian books to his teacher son-who is utterly puzzled about what to do with them. The lecture touched the hearts of participants who listened intently.

In its mission to support Armenian schools, ARS CE presented a $15,000 donation to the newly constructed Toronto Armenian school.

The head of the ARS Western USA's social services office Sona Zinzalian then gave a lecture "The Social Difficulties of Women, and Their Effects."

The seminar convened the next morning with Noushig Eloyan's lecture on the critical and inescapable mission of non-governmental organizations (NGO) in undertaking and resolving many issues.

The following lecture "The Millennium Development Goals. The Role and Impact of NGO participation," was presented by Joyce Buchanan.

Penny Giragosian's spoke next on the role of NGOs and presented three young women-Lori Hovsepian, Linda Kharaboian and Karin Arakelian-all graduates of the Montreal St. Hagop secondary Armenian School who presented the ARS's activities as an NGO.

After lunch, Hagop Der Khatchadourian addressed the issue of Diaspora-Armenia Relations.

The last presentation at the seminar was by Richard Giragosian on Javakhk.

ROUBINA, Toronto:

January 26, 2003: ARS Roubina chapter celebrated the 40th anniversary of its inception. The keynote speaker of the event was Ms. Nora Demirdjian and her message was "Teaching of Armenian Language." During the celebration, members who have served the organization for 15, 25, 35 and 50 years received special acknowledgements and pins.

During 1997-2002, ARS Roubina Chapter has made the following allocations to different organizations as follows:

ARS Day School Building Fund - $250,000.00
ARS Day School - $125,000.00
ARS Social Services - $95,000.00
ARS Regional Executive - $58,000.00
Toronto Armenian Center - $50,000.00
ARS Summer Camp - $40,000.00
St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church &
Armenian Center Mortgage Burning Fund - $27,000.00
Armenian, Karabagh and Javakhk - $20,400.00
Horizon Weekly & Children Supplement - $18,900.00
Canadian and International Organizations - $12,500.00
Scholarships and Awards - $8,900.00
Armenian Cause - $8,000.00

Total: $713,700.00

SOSSE, Montreal

February 27, 2003: On the St. Vartanank occasion, the Montreal, ARS Sosse Chapter had organized a dinner at the Montreal Armenian Center, where more than 200 people were present to enjoy a night of festivities. Among guests present at the event were His Grace Bishop Khajag Hagopian, Catholicosal Vicar of the Armenian Prelacy of Canada , Archpriest Father Armen Ishkhanian and Rev. Father Karning Koyounian, pastor of the Sourp Hagop Armenian Apostolic Church. The Mistress of the ceremonies for the night was Mrs. Loucine Palandjian of ARS Sosse Chapter.

January 9, 2003: The Montreal Sosse Chapter celebrated New Year and wished its member and non-members a prosperous and a healthy 2003! The crowd present at the event cheered a Fashion Show organized by Mrs. Silva Panossian.

SHOUSHI, Laval

January 8, 2003: The Laval Shoushi Chapter celebrated New Year at the PB Banquet Hall. 160 members were present at the event, which was sponsored by Mrs. Rita Ekmekjian. Among present were, the Chairperson of the ARS Canada Regional Executive Mrs. Maro Froundjian and Board Members Mrs. Zepure Assadourian and Mrs. Armene Garabedian.