The Armenian American Social Club (AASC) held its annual Christmas party in the afternoon of December 11, 2014 at the ARTISAN Restaurant, on Hooper Avenue in Toms River, NJ.

Aside from being a celebration of Christmas this luncheon was also dedicated to honoring the long-time president and founding father of AASC, Levon Toutikian, who has decided to resign because of his health. Some 30 members of AASC and invited guests gathered at the restaurant to celebrate Christmas and honor Levon who is beloved by all. We also had the honor of the presence of Hayr Daniel and Yeretzgin Mariam Karadjian. Hayr Soorp Mamigon Kiledjian was also invited but was unable to attend and sent his regrets.

After partaking in a multi-course dinner which was enjoyed by all and a choice of desert, including a special Baklava, not on the menu, but served special just to Der Hayr by the restaurant manager who remembered it from his joking request last year.

Levon opened the impromptu program acknowledging the club officers, Vahe, Krikor and Annmarie Rooney and proceeded to give a brief review of the history of the club, its many activities and accomplishments, culminating in the project to install two flag poles in front of our church; one for the Armenian flag and the second for the American flag. He mentioned that with limited finances the club could only afford one flagpole, but thanks to the generosity of Krikor and Sonia Toufayan the second flag pole was also funded and both flagpoles installed and dedicated on August 17, 2014.

AASC Club treasurer, Krikor Toufayan followed by recounting the numerous activities that Levon undertook and his dedication and hard work for the club.

Vahe Surenian also spoke briefly of Levon’s dedication and hard work and proceeded to give Levon a beautiful plaque on behalf of the AASC members to commemorate his service and this special occasion.

The words on the plaque say it all:

ARMENIAN AMERICAN SOCIAL CLUB HONORS

LEVON TOOTIKIAN

FOUNDING FATHER AND PRESIDENT FOR LIFE.

IN APPRECIATION FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE

LEADERSHIP AND DEDICATION

Der Hayr Daniel also spoke, congratulating Levon for his hard work and achievements and declared that AASC should not dissolve, as it is currently planned. He stated that Levon should remain as president for life and he, Der Hayr will help the Club find someone from the younger generation of our St. Stepanos parishioners to lead the Club. Also, the Club, as always, will be allowed to use the church facilities for meetings and functions.

It was a very happy, enjoyable and uplifting afternoon.

Submitted by Vahe Surenian