Under the auspices of the Armenian Assembly of America South Florida Regional Council (SFRC), members and supporters came together earlier this month in Boca Raton, Florida for the Assembly's annual briefing and reception.
Executive Director Bryan Ardouny along with Grassroots Director Taniel Koushakjian provided a recap of last year's activities and a detailed overview of the legislative challenges ahead in 2011, from U.S. assistance to Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh, the ongoing Turkey and Azeri blockades against Armenia, to U.S. affirmation of the Armenian Genocide, among other issues.
Ardouny also highlighted the upcoming 40th anniversary of the Armenian Assembly, which coincides with the 2012 presidential election year. In addition, Ardouny emphasized the Armenian Assembly's successful internship programs in Washington, DC and in Armenia while Koushakjian discussed specific issues geared toward greater grassroots activism in Florida.
A lively question and answer session also took place with many constructive recommendations for the Assembly's ongoing work in Washington, DC and Armenia.
"With over 90 new Members of Congress, we must redouble our state wide grassroots outreach efforts," stated Taniel Koushakjian. "In Florida, for example, we have a unique opportunity to make inroads with several new Members. Our goal is to further strengthen our advocacy efforts from coast to coast," added Koushakjian.
"On behalf of the Assembly's Board, I would like to thank the Members of the South Florida Regional Council, in particular Carol Norigian, as well as our hosts Harry and Edna Keleshian, for the fantastic turn-out and for making this event possible," stated Assembly Board Member Lu Ann Ohanian.
