The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California recently hosted a beam-signing ceremony to commemorate the installation of the first structural steel beams at its construction site. Communications Director Arsine Torosyan officially initiated the event, extending a warm welcome to museum, government, and community leaders at the bustling construction site where the imposing structural steel framing is taking form. The ceremony featured spirited remarks from representatives of the board of trustees, including Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Rev. Hendrik Shanazarian, Bishop Mikael Mouradian, and Very Rev. Zareh Sarkissian, all representing prominent Armenian organizations. Glendale Mayor Daniel Brotman expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the museum’s future significance as a community cornerstone.
The mayor was accompanied by Councilwoman Paula Devine, Councilman Ardy Kassakhian, Councilwoman Elen Asatryan, and City Manager Roubik Golanian. Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian expressed heartfelt gratitude to the museum’s generous supporters, acknowledging their pivotal role in reaching this milestone. The culmination of the ceremony involved the ceremonial signing of the pinnacle structural steel beam, symbolizing the unity and commitment of all involved. This event heralds the beginning of a series of community activities planned at the museum construction site. State Senator Anthony Portantino reaffirmed California’s support for the museum, recognizing its role in celebrating cultural diversity and preserving history for future generations.
The highly anticipated cultural and educational center, situated within the museum campus at Glendale Central Park, is progressing steadily. While the first construction phase, including the museum parking garage and building foundation, is complete, the second phase, featuring the two-level 50,820 square foot museum building superstructure, is currently underway. The museum’s mission is to foster understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity through the sharing of the Armenian American experience. With offerings such as Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions, an Auditorium, Learning Center, Demonstration Kitchen, and Archives Center, the museum aims to engage visitors from all walks of life. For further information on the museum project, please visit ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org.
