Republic Day was observed along with our traditional Iftaar Dinner on the night of October 31st.

Mr. Mustafa Kurtoglu's "ezan" recitation started off the night which was proceeded by a traditional dinner.

Mr. Hasan Kumbasar's speech was begun with "Istiklal Marsi" followed by Gunnur and Oznur Tuluoglu sisters' poems about Republic Day and Dr. Cemil Atilgan's speech named "Republic in It's 81st Year".

In his speech Mr. Kumbasar stated: "With our combined effort Marti,which came a long way in 7 months since it's opening, will overcome many hurdles." Mr. Atilgan's speech and Tuluoglu sisters' poems were also enjoyed by attendants

A visit was paid to Sen. Kelley who had honored us with her presence at our "Annual Iftaar” on October 21st 2004.

Our president Hasan Kumbasar, secretary Kemal Akkaya and Cigdem Tuluoglu, a member, was present at the meeting.

Senator was informed about our activities and future plans and Turkey as well. Senator said she appreciated our work upon reviewing our accomplishments so far.

The meeting lasted about 50 minutes with Senator whom we are planning to meet again.

A celebration was held on Sunday November 14th at 2:30 pm. in Slayton House.

Our vice president Fatih Kuzu's speech commenced the night. He told members about past and upcoming activities until January.

We had a slideshow from photos of past activities, followed by Mr. Vahap Sumer's mini concert. A gift presentation to children by Mr. and Mrs. Ekici wrapped up the gathering.

About 80 members joined the gathering where we served baklava, borek, salad and beverages.

In it's first year of foundation MARTI, to accomplish his mission of bridging cultures organised the firsts of “MARTI Annual Iftaar Dinners”. The Programme started at 6.00 PM in “Renaissence Harborplace Hotel”.

The United States Senator Barbara Mukulski conveyed her apologies for not being able to join us with a letter and we were together that evening with The Senate of Maryland Senator Delores G.Kelley, Honorary Consul General to U.S. , Prof.Dr. Cenap KIRATLI and around 50 other guests.

The Dinner started after calling out the azaan and there was a slide show projecting Turkey.

After the dinner ayats from Qur'an were read, MARTI (Mariland American Turkish Inhabitants) was introduced to our guests and the programme ended with a speach on “Ramadan and Turkey” by Mr. Onural.

That night our guests had the opportunity to learn more about Turkey and Turkish Culture. Everybody was presented with “Turkish Delights” and a CD about Turkey prepared by Ministry of Turkish Culture.

We all left the hotel at 8.30 pm promising to meet again next year at the Annual MARTI Iftaar Dinner.

The Fisrt of The Annual Community Iftaar Dinner was held on October, 23th Saturday, in the “Hawthorne Center”

That night we were honered by our American Friends and guests of various cultures. We all enjoyed the delicious Turkish Cuisine.

The Program started with the intrduction of “The Holy Ramadan Month” and continued with the slide show on “Turkish Culture” presented by Dr.Cemil Atilgan. At the end of the program there was a presentation on Turkey.

Our guest described the night as a “Short Turkey Tour” and expressed their warmest thanks.

Along with 80 other guests, We believe this night was the foundation of “The Annual Community Iftaar Dinner”.

MARTI's Vice President Mr. Kuzu, along with several members visited Baltimore County Chief of Police Mr. Terrence Shedian, Colonel M. Kim Ward and Captain John A. Spiroff. During the visit, Mr. Kuzu informed them about MARTI's past, present, and future events as well as basic Turkish customs and traditions.

Mr. Sheridan, Col. Ward and Cpt. Spiroff expressed great interest in attending MARTI's future events. The visit took about one hour.