The Living Land
Armenia’s biodiversity tells its unique stories of places and people
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October 19, 2012
Over 350 Members and Supporters Gather for AGBU São Paulo's 48th Anniversary Event
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Mr. Jose Serra (left), former Governor of the state of São Paulo and guest at AGBU São Paulo's 48th anniversary gathering, stands with AGBU São Paulo Chapter Chair Mr. Helio Balukian. -
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Dr. Ari Geudjenian (center), Chairman of the Armenian Community of Osasco, is honored as "Person of the Year" by AGBU São Paulo Chapter Chair Mr. Helio Balukian (left) and Chapter Secretary Haig Apovian. -
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AGBU São Paulo's next generation of leaders come together during the Chapter's anniversary party. -
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Dr. Benjamin Distchekenian is presented with an AGBU Honorary Member award by AGBU São Paulo Chapter Chair Mr. Helio Balukian (left).
Local dignitaries, a much beloved band and more than 350 guests – all gathered in one of São Paulo's premiere venues – made AGBU Brazil's 48th anniversary celebration an affair to remember. The event, which was held once again at the prestigious Maison France, began in the afternoon on Sunday, September 23, 2012, and stretched well into the evening. They represented a range of generations, from AGBU's youngest members to its veterans, and enjoyed entertainment by, AGBU Montevideo's Erevan 50 Band, which has previously performed in São Paulo and was back by popular demand.
The afternoon honored two distinguished individuals who have been instrumental to the Chapter's decades of growth. In keeping with tradition, the Chapter presented the Person of the Year award to a leader who has played a vital role in strengthening the local Armenian community: Dr. Ari Geudjenian, Chairman of the Armenian Community of Osasco (CAO).Osasco is located not far from the AGBU Center in São Paulo and for years CAO and AGBU have maintained a close relationship. Responsible for building Brazil's very first Armenian Church, CAO shares a rich history with AGBU, one rooted in helping immigrants and the generations that have followed maintain the Armenian traditions that are close to their hearts. Under Dr. Geudjenian's leadership, AGBU Brazil and CAO have continued to grow closer, each drawing from the strengths of the other. Youth from Osasco who are also alumni of the AGBU Paren and Regina Bazarian School continue to participate in AGBU activities.
One of AGBU Brazil's founding members in 1964, Dr. Benjamin Distchekenian was named as the second honoree. Dr. Distchekenian has worked diligently on behalf of the Chapter to advance families' social welfare and create educational opportunities for youth for decades. His many contributions were praised by AGBU São Paulo Chair Helio Balukian, who also discussed the Chapter's different programs and recent initiatives. He highlighted the talent and enthusiasm that its young athletes brought with them to Los Angeles this past summer for the AGBU World Games, and the generosity that AGBU donors have shown over the past few weeks by contributing to humanitarian relief efforts in Syria. Supporters and friends were able to relive all the Chapter's highlights from the past year through a special video that was screened during the reception.
Among the hundreds that turned out to celebrate AGBU's 48th anniversary, there was one guest who did not go unnoticed. The Chapter was pleased to welcome Mr. Jose Serra, former Governor of the state of São Paulo, former Mayor of São Paulo City and a mayoral candidate in this October's local elections, to the event. Through his years in public service, Mr. Serra has always maintained strong ties with the city's Armenian community, and AGBU Brazil looks forward to that relationship continuing to grow with each anniversary that passes.
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