Past Events
Cyprus Alumni Fundraiser a great success!
More than 300 Melkoniantsis and friends turned up for the Cyprus Alumni luncheon on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2004, also attended by a delegation from the Lebanon Alumni.
The biggest absence was that of the present-day Melkonian students who were shamelessly forced indoors and not allowed to take part in an event that aims to save their school.
Rev. Fr. Der Mashdotz blessed those present, after which the guest of honor, Mr. Jack Melkonian, gave a fiery speech, condemning the actions of the AGBU Central Board to close down the school that his great uncles built 78 years ago.
"This financial institution (the AGBU) is NOT the owner of the school . . . you are, the Armenian Community and the Diaspora," Jack said, with the crowd roaring to applause.
He talked about his contacts with the AGBU executives and the deception about the true plans about the Melkonian School. "Little did I know we would come to this when I was here last time for the school’s 75th anniversary," said Jack Melkonian, adding that he would help in the struggle to keep the Melkonian open, as this has tremendous potential for the future generation of Armenians.
The first prize was a gold ring donated by Avakian Jewelers of London and Geneva, drawn from the entrance ticket. Some 30 other prizes, including jewelry, airline tickets, electronic equipment and vouchers from shops and restaurants were drawn also from the 3000 lottery tickets that were nearly sold-out.
Cash donations and pledges are expected to exceed CYP 5,000. The Alumni will be making an official announcement shortly with the full financial details of the fundraiser.
Click here for pictures Banquet of " Kef Time 2004 "- Oct. 30, 2004
At Brandview Collections Restaurant, Glendale, California
"Save Melkonian" Banquet - June 13, 2004
Fundreaising Gala - Yerego
At Mandaloun Restaurant, Glendale, California
- Anthem - Melkonian Educational Institute
(Text of MEI Anthem)
- Mr. Garo Kassabian (Secretary)
(Message in Armenian)
