On Sunday, April 8, 2018, the Crescenta Valley Armenian Center was rededicated as the “Meher and Satig Der Ohanessian Youth Center” during a special ceremony presided over by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate. In attendance were ARF Bureau member Dr. Viken Yacoubian, ARF-WR Central Committee Chair Mr. Daron Der Khatchadourian, Political Chair Mr. Avedik Izmirlian and members, ARF Crescenta Valley “Zavarian” Gomideh Chair Mr. Mike Keleshian and members, California State Senator Anthony Portantino, Glendale Mayor Zareh Sinanyan and City Council members, Prelacy Executive Council members, and benefactors Mr. and Mrs. Meher and Satig Der Ohanessian along with their sons Ari and Saro and their families.
The program began with the flag ceremony by Homenetmen scouts. The Prelate, assisted by Rev. Fr. Ghevont Kirazian, blessed the center through special prayers. The unveiling of the new sign and ribbon cutting ceremony followed.
The program continued inside the center with opening remarks by MC Mr. Arick Gevorkian. Senator Portantino presented a proclamation.
The Prelate delivered his message, which be began by noting the wonderful coincidence that the center is receiving its new name on New Sunday, which is a day of renewal. He greeted and congratulated the “Zavarian” Gomideh and the entire ARF family and community as a whole, stating, “as members of one and the same family, the achievements of one are achievements for all.” His Eminence blessed and commended in particular the benefactors for this latest of their countless contributions to our national institutions. Next, the Prelate highlighted the great value of such centers, along with our churches and schools, as bastions of our faith and heritage, a second home and safe haven for all community members and for our youth especially. His Eminence also noted that the ceremony can be considered as part of centennial celebrations of the first Republic of Armenia, a celebration of our survival, resilience, and flourishing, and concluded by urging the community to continue to work together with brotherly love, goodwill, and renewed drive.
Remarks were subsequently delivered by Mr. Mike Keleshian on behalf of the ARF Crescenta Valley Chapter, Mr. Saro Der Ohanessian, who on behalf of the family announced an additional pledge, and Mr. Daron Der Khatchadourian on behalf of the ARF-WR Central Committee.
A reception followed.