[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 055 (Monday, April 7, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E688]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING STATE SENATOR CHUCK S. POOCHIGIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 7, 2003

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize State Senator 
Chuck S. Poochigian on the occasion of being voted ``Man of the Year'' 
by the Armenian National Committee of Central California. The banquet 
honoring Senator Poochigian will be held Saturday, April 12, 2003, at 
the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church Hall in Fresno, California.
  Chuck Poochigian was born in Fresno, California, in 1949, as a third 
generation resident of the San Joaquin Valley. He received his degree 
in Business Administration from California State University, Fresno in 
1972, and his law degree from the University of Santa Clara in 1975. 
Mr. Poochigian served as a member of the California Air National Guard 
for six years. He practiced general civil and business law from 1975 
until November of 1988, at which time he was chosen, by then-Governor 
George Deukmejian, to serve as the Chief Deputy Appointments Secretary 
on the Governor's senior staff. Chuck assisted the Governor in the 
selection of key administration officials. In 1991, Governor Pete 
Wilson named Chuck as his Appointment Secretary, where he served until 
his election to the State Assembly in 1994.
  Senator Poochigian's reputation for strong leadership and hard work 
was recognized by California Journal magazine, which ranked him as the 
Assembly Republican ``Rookie of the Year'' for 1996. In 2000, Chuck was 
chosen ``Outstanding Senator'' by the California State Sheriffs' 
Association, and received the ``Legislator of the Year'' Award from the 
California State Student Association, as well as the California Network 
of Educational Charters.
  Senator Poochigian has received renowned recognition for his 
assistance in passing important public safety legislation and a 
transportation package which will significantly benefit local 
communities. His expertise in business and agriculture in California, 
and his belief in fair and limited taxation with minimal government 
regulation, have made him a beloved leader and respected member of the 
community.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize State Senator Chuck S. 
Poochigian for his meritorious defense of the Central Valley 
communities of California. His standards and morals are those of a true 
genuine leader. I invite my colleagues to join me in commending Chuck 
for his service and hard work and in wishing him many years of 
continued success.

                          ____________________