FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Tony Bell, Communications Deputy
Office: (213) 974-5555
Cell: (213) 215-5176
tbell@bos.lacounty.gov

ANTONOVICH STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF MATT FONG

June 1, 2011 -- Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich issued the following statement on the death of former California State Treasurer Matt Fong:
     
“Matt was a great friend, a dedicated public servant and a strong leader in the Republican Party.  In fact, I helped Matt switch from a Democrat to a Republican because of his strong beliefs in the principles of Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan -- family, faith, fiscal responsibility and a strong defense.   

Appointed to the State Board of Equalization by Governor Wilson in 1991, he was elected State Treasurer in 1995.  In addition, Matt was an outstanding lawyer, graduate of the Air Force Academy, Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force and son of Secretary of State March Fong Eu, the first Asian-American woman in the United States elected to statewide office.

Christine and I were very sorry to hear of his passing and send our sympathies to his wife, Paula, and his children Jade and Matthew.”