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PRESS RELEASE

Tuesday, July 5, 2005

AGBU LEBANON DISTRICT HONORS GARBIS MARKARIAN

New York, NY – AGBU Lebanon District recognized Garbis Markarian for
five decades of distinguished service to the Armenian Lebanese
community at a special event organized in his honor on May 20,
2005. Markarian, AGBU District Committee of Lebanon Vice Chairperson,
was presented with the Order of St. Nerses Shnorhali and an encyclical
from His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians. This
special evening was attended by over 300 local dignitaries, community
leaders, AGBU members and friends.

The guest of honor received congratulatory messages from Armenia’s
Ambassador to Lebanon Areg Hovhannisian, AGBU President Berge
Setrakian, AGBU District Committee of Lebanon and AGBU Antranik Youth
Association (AYA). Markarian also received plaques from AGBU and the
Union of Manufacturers of Lebanon. In his remarks, Avedis Demirdjian,
AGBU District Committee of Lebanon Chairperson, said the District
Committee and the entire AGBU family were proud to honor Markarian who
has dedicated his life to serving AGBU and AYA, where he served as
Chairperson for many years.

“This event is a well-deserved appreciation for your selfless service
and contribution to the Lebanese Armenian community and to AGBU,” said
AGBU President Berge Setrakian in his congratulatory message, thanking
Markarian’s family, wife Aida Markarian and children, for their
enormous support.

In his closing remarks, Markarian, deeply moved, said, “At this
moment, I live… perhaps the most special moment in my life…I can
proudly say that I am happy to have served my Union and my nation,
remaining faithful to Lebanon, Armenia and Holy Etchmiadzin…”

AGBU Lebanon District is dedicated to preserving and promoting the
Armenian heritage and culture through humanitarian, educational and
cultural programs. For more information on AGBU Lebanon District,
please email agbu@cyberia.net.lb or visit

For more information on AGBU and its worldwide chapters, please visit