Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: info@aaainc.org
Web:

PRESS RELEASE

April 2, 2009
Contact: Michael A Zachariades
Email: mzachariades@aaainc.org
Phone: (202) 393-3434

ASSEMBLYMAN PORTANTINO ADDRESSES SAHAG MESROB SCHOOL

Altadena, CA – Continuing its efforts to bring elected officials and
community leaders together, the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly),
in conjunction with Sahag Mesrob Armenian Christian School, hosted a
speech by Assemblyman Anthony Portantino from the California 44th
Assembly District.

Addressing a group of elementary and high school students, Assemblyman
Portantino discussed his work in Sacramento and affirmed his support of
the Armenian communities’ effort to seek U.S. recognition of the
Armenian genocide on the federal level. Portantino said that he would
join his colleagues – as well as the Armenian Consul General and
respected Armenian Archbishops – on April 23, as California and its
vibrant Armenian community honor the 1.5 million Armenians who lost
their lives during 1915-1923 genocide.

"By interjecting humor and interacting directly with the young audience,
Assemblyman Portantino connected with the students," stated Assembly
Western Region Director Yeghig Keshishian. "It was wonderful to see the
students, many of whom have otherwise had no exposure to politics, have
a positive first encounter."

Sahag Mesrob Armenian Christian School celebrated 28-years of service to
the San Gabriel Armenian community last year. As a response to the
growing needs from the surrounding community, and a testament to its
academic excellence, the School Board and Administration embarked during
the 2004-2005 academic year to start a High School program to answer the
demands of many parents. Enrollment has since continued to grow,
reaching an all-time high during the 2008-2009 academic year.

"This would not be possibly without the support of Principal Shahe
Garabedian and the School Board," said Keshishian. They have been such
gracious hosts in allowing the Assembly to facilitate Assemblyman
Portantino’s visit to the school campus." It is the common goal of both
the Assembly and Sahag Mesrob school to have students become intrigued
by the political system and to talk about what they heard with their
parents, in hopes of generating greater Armenian participation in local
community affairs.

Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest
Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding
and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a 501(c) (3)
tax-exempt membership organization.

###

NR#2009-023