DEARBORN, Mich. — The Knights of Vartan’s 100th Annual Grand Convocation and the Daughters of Vartan 78th annual meeting was held July 11 to 14 here at the Edward Hotel with more than 150 Knights and Daughters and their family members in attendance. The Knights and Daughters got together for a series of workshops, meetings, discussions, city and cultural tours and elegant evening events. It was also a time to acknowledge and present awards to individuals and lodges for outstanding service to the Armenian community.
The Knights and Daughters of Vartan, Nareg-Shavarshan Lodge #6 and Zabelle Otyag (Lodge) #12, hosted the 100th Grand Convocation. The Convocation Committee was led by General Chairman Past Matron Gloria Korkoian, Co-Chairman Past Commander Kazar Terterian and coordinated by Knights and Daughters from Nareg-Shavarshan Lodge and Zabelle Otyag (Lodge).
Wednesday, July 11, included a city tour of Detroit with visits to the Motown Museum, St John Armenian Church and the Alex and Marie Manoogian Museum.
On Thursday, July 12, Dr. Taner Akçam was invited as a special guest to speak about his recently published book, The Killing Orders: Talat Pasha’s Telegrams and the Armenian Genocide, which provides undeniable proof that the Young Turks intended to exterminate the Armenian people. For the evening guests enjoyed dining and entertainment in the revolving hotel Rotunda with the singing group “Detroit All-Stars” who took everyone back in time for a Motown experience. Those in attendance had wonderful time with exceptional food, singing and dancing.
One of highlights of the Grand Convocation social events was dinner and dancing at the Henry Ford Museum among the historical and interesting collection of the museum. Armenian music was provided by the All-Star Armenian Band: Richard Hagopian, Hachig Kazarian, Mal Barsamian and Vaughn Masropian and DJ M-Kay who inspired guests to dance throughout the night. Guests enjoyed traditional Armenian dancing including Detroit’s “Michigan Hop” and others.
The closing event of the Centennial Grand Convocation was the Gala Banquet with Knights and Daughters present as well as many other guests who enjoyed the beautiful dances performed by the Detroit Hamazkayin Dance Group and the breath taking music of violinist Harry Hovakimian.
