On Sunday, October 21, 2018, Asbarez newspaper celebrates its 110th anniversary with a banquet held at “Bagramian Hall” of Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello. On behalf of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, Holy Cross Cathedral Dean, Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian attended and read the Prelate’s message. Among the guests in attendance were Consul General of Armenia Armen Baibourtian, members of the ARF Central Committee and local chapters, of the Executive Council and parishes’ Boards of Trustees, representatives of community organizations, sponsors, and friends.
Fr. Muron delivered the invocation and read the Prelate’s message congratulating the Asbarez editors, staff, and the ARF Central Committee. “Asbarez arose out of a need. The Armenian community in those days, having suffered under Turkish oppression and forcefully banished from our ancestral lands, found refuge in these peaceful lands of America, where they could not separate themselves from our motherland and national life. Thus, a group of visionaries established Asbarez in Fresno, which became and remains a bridge allowing the people to keep up on our history, culture, and Armenian sentiments,” stated the Prelate. His Eminence concluded by blessing the memory of founders and wishing continued success to all those who carry on their legacy.
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Nazaret Berberian, prominent editor from Greece. In acknowledging the paper’s supporters, English editor Mr. Ara Khachatourian thanked the Prelate and Prelacy for its close collaboration and continuous support.
On this occasion, the editorial board honored sixteen editors and collaborators.
The evening featured a cultural program including songs dedicated to Yerevan’s 2800th anniversary and dances by the Hamazkayin Ani Dance Company.