SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 MirTHErARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXV, NO. 8, Issue 4351 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Turkey Reiterates Nalbandian Attends Erdogan Inauguration, Support For Azerbaijan ANKARA (RFE/RL) — Turkish President Recep Hands Invitation on Behalf of President Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara will continue support - ing Baku in efforts to resolve the Azerbaijani- ANKARA (RFE/RL) — Turkey’s new Armenian dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh ter - President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was for - ritory. mally invited to visit Armenia in April and Erdogan said after talks with Azerbaijani coun - commemorate the 100th anniversary of the terpart Ilham Aliyev in Baku on September 3 that Armenian Genocide, after being sworn in “Azerbaijan’s rights have to be taken into consider - for a five-year term on August 28. ation” in finding a resolution to the conflict. Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Erdogan added, “if the conflict between Nalbandian presented to Erdogan a letter Azerbaijan and Armenia [over Karabagh] is from President Serge Sargisian as the two resolved, then the problems between Turkey and men briefly spoke at a reception that fol - Armenia will also be solved.” lowed the inauguration. Nalbandian’s press Erdogan and Aliyev discussed the planned nat - office reported no other ural gas pipeline which would bring Azerbaijani gas details of the to Europe via Turkey’s Antalya region. conversation. Erdogan called Turkey and Azerbaijan “two Sargisian first nations from one stem.” publicly extended the invitation in Hayrapetyan Back to May, three months Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian gives Turkish before the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a letter from his Armenian counter - Prison presidential elec - part, Serge Sargisian, at his inauguration in Ankara on August 28. tion. In televised MOSCOW (ArmeniaNow) — Russian-Armenian remarks, he urged businessman and benefactor Levon Hayrapetyan, the winner of the history of the the inauguration ceremony whether who is imprisoned in Moscow on charges of money ballot to visit Armenian genocide.” Erdogan will accept the invitation. A state - laundering, was transferred to a civic hospital for a Yerevan on April 24, Sargisian said on August 23 that ment on Nalbandian’s trip to Ankara one-day medical examination, his lawyer told media 2015 and “face up to telling testimonies of the Nalbandian “will learn” on the sidelines of see INVITATION, page 2 on Tuesday. The group campaigning for the release of Hayrapetyan later said that the 65-year-old had again been taken to the Matrosskaya Tishina prison Former Principal, following the procedure. Hayrapetyan was detained California Senate Recognizes on July 15 and a court in Moscow subsequently Community Leader allowed for him to remain in custody despite protests from his legal representatives that he qual - Nagorno-Karabagh Republic Kevork Marashlian and ifies at least for house arrest as a person suffering Wife Visit Buenos Aires from a number of serious diseases. On July 24, the SACRAMENTO (ARKA/Armenpress) — fifth US state after Massachusetts, Rhode Investigation Committee brought formal embezzle - The California State Senate, led by incom - Island, Maine and Louisiana to adopt leg - ment and money laundering charges against ing Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De islation supporting the independence of Hayrapetyan. Leon, has passed Assembly member Mike Artsakh. By Diana Der Garabedian Many believe that the case against Hayrapeyan is Gatto’s Joint Resolution (AJR) 32 by an Armenia’s Foreign Minister Eduard politically motivated. In an interview with overwhelming majority of votes. The reso - Nalbandian welcomed this resolution, BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — At the ArmNews TV channel aired on August 11 lution recognizes the Nagorno-Karabagh stating that “the more Azerbaijan ham - invitation of the Armenian General Armenian President Serge Sargisian said he had Republic (NKR) and calls upon the US pers the efforts of Armenia and the Benevolent Union (AGBU) to celebrate the raised the issue of Hayrapetyan’s arrest during his Congress and president to also do so. It Organization for Security and 40th anniversary of the Marie Manoogian meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in encourages NKR’s continuing efforts to Cooperation in Europe Minsk Group co- Educational Institute, former principal Sochi. “The president of Russia promised to exam - develop as a free and independent nation. chairs to settle the Karabagh issue, the Kevork Marashlian and his wife, Vartiter, ine the matter,” Sargisian said. The state of California has become the see CALIFORNIA, page 16 who used to teach there, visited from Washington, DC, where they live now. IOC President to Visit The Marashlians’ visit to the Marie Manoogian Institute, where they initiated Armenia many innovative programs, such as the graduating class trip to Armenia, and YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The President of the strengthened its national identity, provided International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach an opportunity for the board members, will pay a visit to Armenia in October, announced teachers, graduates and students to speak the Secretary General of the Olympic Committee of with them. Armenia Hrachya Rostomyan at a press conference Kevork Marashlian participated in the 40th on September 2. anniversary celebration on August 18 by giv - Rostomyan reflected upon the European Games ing a fiery speech and a message in which he 2015, which are due to be held in Baku. declared that the Marie Manoogian School is the best school in the Armenian Diaspora. During the last 40 years, more than 800 young boys and girls, all born in Argentina, INSI DE have graduated. Ten percent of the graduates work as teachers and principals in Marie Manoogian School and in the six other Designer Karen Petrossian holds one of the Hermes scarves. Armenian schools of the community. Savile see VISIT, page 9 Herm ès Armenian Alphabet Row Scarf Raises Funds for Charity Page 11

PARIS — On September 1, to mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Protestant-France-Armenia Solidarity INDEX (SFPA) charity association, Pierre-Alexis By Jean Eckian Arts and Living ...... 11 Dumas, artistic director of Hermès, presented to Armenia ...... 2,3 the Petrossian restaurant the new square Community News...... 5 Hermès silk on the topic of the Armenian alphabet, Lettres de Erevan. Editorial ...... 14 Designed by Karen Pétrossian, the scarf honors Mesrop Mashtots, creator of International ...... 4 Kevork and Vartiter Marashlian With the Armenian alphabet. see SCARF, page 16? Nahabet Nahabetian at TCA entrance 2 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia VivaCell-MTS and Fuller Center for Housing Armenia Continue Partnership Karabagh President Meets with AUA By Alla Asatryan President YERVANDASHAT, Armenia — A long- waited housewarming was celebrated in STEPANAKERT (Armenpress) — On September 3, the village of Yervandashat. A second Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakian family is also close to the realization of received the president of the American University its dream. VivaCell-Mobile Telesystems of Armenia, Prof. Armen Der Kiureghian and Vice (MTS) General Manager Ralph Yirikian, President Ashot Ghazaryan. volunteer staff members, Fuller Center The Office of the Artsakh Republic President for Housing Armenia team and the reported that Sahakian congratulated Der Global Builders volunteer team from the Kiureghian on his appointment as the AUA presi- USA joined forces to help the Muradyan dent expressing hope that he would continue the family complete the construction of their policy of developing the institution and deepening half-built home. The construction of one ties with Artsakh, adding that it was a necessary family’s house was followed by another institution for the residents of Karabagh. family’s, with the Ghazaryans’ home blessing ceremony. VivaCell’s Ralph Yirikian helped out with the construction. Armenia Hands ‘’We are grateful to you for always standing firm next to the families keep - $100,000 to Assist Iraqi ing the country’s borders. There is no The Ghazaryans, who were already cel - home of our own. We have dreamed for greater happiness than to acknowledge ebrating a home blessing, have tried to so long that one day our sons would Yezidis that you are not alone, that there are car - build their own house for 25 years. They have a strong roof over their heads, but YEREVAN (Hetq) — Armenian Foreign Minister ing people next to you who have willing - have put stones on stones, but have been we couldn’t do it… We express our grate - Edward Nalbandian this past week handed a note ly helped to finish the construction of a unable finish the construction due to fulness to VivaCell-MTS and the Fuller to Christoph Bierwirth, the Representative of the long-waited house. Soon we will also the lack of financial means. The family Center for Housing Armenia for being UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) con- move to our new and comfortable home. has lived in a half-built house for 15 supportive toward the people living on firming the transfer of US$100,000 to the account We are very glad that today one of our years without basic necessities. Finally, the border and sharing our infinite hap - of the UNHCR Geneva Headquarters for humani- village’s already completed houses is all the difficulties are left behind. piness by being present at our home- tarian support to the Yezidis of Iraq. going to be blessed,’’ said the Muradyan Today the housing project implement - blessing ceremony.” On hand at the ceremony were Bradley Busetto, family father, Hakob. ed through the financial investment of “Every single stone here was laid with the UN Resident Coordinator in Armenia; Aziz The Muradyans have been living in VivaCell-MTS has given its first result. love and that love carries a belief in a Tamoyan, president of the National Union of Yervandashat for 64 years. Their large The first achievement of the project bright future. It is particularly important Yezidis; and Shaikh Bro Hasanyan, the religious family has lived in a building that used to launched a few months ago in this that the villagers living in the borderland leader of the Yezidis of Armenia. Addressing the serve as a kindergarten and needed ren - region was marked through a home villages feel that they are not alone when assembled guests, Foreign Minister Nalbandian ovation. As the political and economic blessing ceremony. facing hardships and that people from said: “During recent weeks the world’s attention situation in the country worsened their The Ghazaryan family mother, Gohar, various organizations have united to has been focused on the massive crimes committed help their families stand solidly on the by extremists in Iraq against religious and ethnic soil of the homeland. That feeling is the minorities. As a result of the violence, thousands guarantee for success,’’ said VivaCell- have been displaced from their homes, amongst MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian. them Yezidis, Christians, and Muslims. As a result “The home for an Armenian is not just of the atrocities there have been many victims.” a place to live in. It’s the soul of the fam - President of the National Union of Yezidis Aziz ily, the warranty and the cornerstone of Tamoyan expressed gratitude to the government. a secure and decent life. The project implemented in the border villages of Armenia through the financial invest - Opera in Shushi Marks ment of VivaCell-MTS is aimed at creat - ing decent conditions for each family. It Independence will give them an opportunity to live, STEPANAKERT (Hetq) — To mark the 23rd anniver- work and create on their own land in sary of Artsakh’s independence, the Alexander their own homes,’’ said Fuller Center for Spendarian Opera and Ballet Theater staged an Housing Armenia president, Ashot open-air performance of Avet Terteryan’s “Ring of Yeghiazaryan. Fire” opera in the ancient citadel of Shushi. VivaCell-MTS has invested 55 million Artsakh Minister of Culture Narineh Aghabalyan Armenian drams (AMD) for the housing The beaming Ghazaryan family in front of their new house said that staging open-air operas at the citadel to project in the borderland villages of mark the country’s independence has become a tra- Armenia and Fuller Center for Housing dition. Armenia has undertaken the implemen - dream of having their own home expressed her gratefulness: “Words can’t tation of the project. Thanks to this part - remained unaccomplished. In 2005 they describe the happiness we feel today. We nership 25 families from borderland vil - Generation Surpasses Its started the construction of the new have longed for this day. We have lages of Armenia will enjoy living in Predecessors, Says house but were unable to finish it. worked very hard to one day have a homes by the end of the year. Artsakh Primate YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Armenian border today is watched by a brilliant generation that sur- Nalbandian Attends Erdogan Inauguration passes its predecessors, which is a sign of progress. INVITATION, from page 1 to be international pressure [over national ministerial conference. They This is how the head of the Artsakh Diocese of the released by the Armenian Foreign Genocide recognition.] Or maybe made no progress towards the normal - Armenian Apostolic Church, Archbishop Pargev Ministry said nothing about that. Turkey will evolve so much that it will ization of Turkish-Armenian relations, Martirosyan, described the Armenian soldier in a Turkish officials have given no indica - do what Germany did about the which Ankara continues to link to the conversation with the journalists who arrived in tions as to whether or not the new Holocaust.” Nagorno-Karabagh conflict. the Nagorno-Karabagh Republic from Yerevan. Turkish president is ready for what In a further softening of Turkey’s Another photograph shows “During the war, our volunteer detachments that would be a historic trip to Armenia. decades-long policy of aggressive Nalbandian sitting next to Mevlut later developed into a united army fulfilled their Sargisian’s decision to dispatch his genocide denial, Erdogan offered last Cavusoglu, Turkey’s incoming new for - duty towards their motherland in a glorious way. foreign minister to Erdogan’s swearing- April first-ever Turkish condolences eign minister, at an official dinner in Today, when I often leave to the front line and see in prompted criticism from Armenia’s to the descendants of some 1.5 mil - Ankara. Cavusoglu had a tense rapport their eyes, bold voices, their way of thinking and main opposition parties. Hovannes lion Armenians massacred by the with the Armenian authorities when he consciousness, frankly I am astonished — our young Sahakian, a senior lawmaker from Ottoman Turks. The move was hailed served as president of the Council of people are more than I expected. We have a bril- Sargisian’s ruling Republican Party of by the West. Official Yerevan dis - Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly liant generation,” said the archbishop, who during Armenia (HHK), defended the move on missed Erdogan’s statement, however, (PACE) from 2010-2012. the years of Artsakh’s battles held a cross in the Friday, saying that Armenia needs to saying that Ankara continues to deny Cavusoglu faced allegations of anti- one hand and a weapon in the other. keep channels of communication with that the mass killings constituted Armenian bias after he tried to revive According to Martirosyan, recently the current its big neighbor open. genocide. an Azerbaijan-backed PACE “subcom - generation proved this fully, as witnessed by the “We are at the same time showing Photographs of the Ankara reception mittee” dealing the Karabakh dispute. generals and colonels of the Armenian armed that we have not forgotten and will not released by the Foreign Ministry show Armenian members of the PACE forces, and Artsakh war heroes. “We have a glori- let others forget the 1915 Armenian Nalbandian also chatting with Turkey’s claimed at the time that their Turkish ous generation, exceptional young people, and I’m Genocide,” Sahakian said. “The hand - newly appointed Prime Minister Ahmet and Azerbaijani colleagues want to use proud of them. I would call on them to remain the ing of the letter [to Erdogan] should be Davutoglu, who until now served as for - the panel for lobbying for a pro- same as they are today,” he said. looked at from this standpoint.” eign minister. The two men most recent - Azerbaijani solution to the dispute. “We don’t pin much hope on ly held talks when Davutoglu visited Cavusoglu rejected those allegations Turkey’s president,” he said. “There has Yerevan in December 2013 for an inter - during a May 2010 visit to Yerevan. S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 ARMENIA Levon Aronian Shares Point with Nakamura in Saint Louis

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The leader of the Topalov. After the six rounds Fabiano Caruana Armenian men’s chess team Levon Aronian tops the ranking list of the tournament. He has shared a point at the Saint Louis tournament. 6 points. Aronian faced Hikaru Nakamura representing Reigning World Champion Magnus Carlsen the United States in the sixth round of this returned to Saint Louis to defend his crown at major chess tournament. Aronian played with the second annual Sinquefield Cup, scheduled blacks and the GMs shared a point on the 45th to be held August 27 through September 7. move. Last year’s event was the strongest chess In the next round of the tournament, the tournament ever held on US soil. This year, the Armenian GM will have to face with Veselin Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis are bringing the strongest tournament in the history of chess. Six of the top nine players in the world compete in a 10-round, double round robin for the $100,000 top prize and the right to hoist the coveted Sinquefield Cup. The 2014 installment of the Sinquefield Cup once again features live play-by-play and analy - YEREVAN (Photolure) — A procession for “Peace, Unity and Solidarity” sis from three different teams of grandmaster organized upon the initiative of the Youth Non-Governmental commentators. Spectators have the option to watch the players in the tournament hall or to Organization was held in central Yerevan on Tuesday. The participants, enjoy commentary at Lester’s sports bar, adja - along with Defense Ministry orchestra musicians, peacekeepers and cent to the club, and also to the World Chess priests, marched from Liberty Square to St. Sargis Church to remember Hall of Fame (WCHOF), located directly across the victims of the August clashes in the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict zone the street. as well as the Yezidis slain by Islamic State militants in continuing atroc - Aronian was ranked number two in the world ities in northern Iraq. and had an Elo rating of 2825, making him the third highest rated player in history. Cory Welt: Azerbaijan’s Military Success Is Unlikely Levon Aronian YEREVAN (Panorama.am) — On Azerbaijani directly attacked the pipeline, not who started tial demining. recent military aggression against the Nagorno the conflict. - Dr. Welt, what future do you see for the Karabagh Republic and the RA, the security - The recent Azerbaijani attacks on Nagorno Russia-led Customs Union and the Eurasian issue of the people of Nagorno Karabagh as Karabagh and Armenia, growing anti- Union? How can the current confrontation Archaeologist well as the prospects of the Customs Union Armenianism in Azerbaijan (most vividly between Russia and the West over Ukraine Panorama.am has spoken to Associate Director demonstrated by the Safarov case), complete impact this project and its members? and Associate Research Professor of refusal to accept NKR as a reality as well as offi - - I suspect that these integration projects will ‘Digs’ Using International Affairs at the Institute for cial statements to use of force to retake the NK ultimately be successful only to the extent that European, Russian and Eurasian Studies Dr. constitute direct existential threats to the pop - they reflect the genuine interests of their mem - Cory Welt. ulation of Nagorno Karabagh. Under these cir - bers and prospective members. We have already Drones - Dr. Welt, recently there has been a marked cumstances, how should the security of the seen significant signs of pushback from escalation of hostilities in the Nagorno population of NK be guaranteed even if a peace Kazakhstan and Belarus against the most ambi - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — A Purdue Karabagh conflict zone while Azerbaijan’s pres - agreement is signed between the sides? What tious forms of these projects, which their lead - University archaeologist is utilizing drone ident has openly threatened Armenia with war. confidence building measures should ers do not view to be in their national interests. technology to capture details and data What do you think this is preconditioned by? Azerbaijan undertake to reassure that it poses The current confrontation in Ukraine is not from Bronze Age field sites in Armenia, - It is always difficult to say exactly why a new no threat to Armenians? between Russia and the West. It is between according to Imperial Valley News in outbreak of hostilities occurs along the line of - Regrettably, we’re not at a moment in time Moscow and Kyiv. I do not think this con - Indiana. contact. With each summer’s violence worse when Azerbaijan is able to credibly offer securi - frontation itself is key to the success of failure “Drones are a new tool in archaeolo - than the last, the risk of escalation spinning out ty guarantees to the population of Nagorno- of Moscow-led integration projects. You’ll gists’ toolkits,” said Ian Lindsay, an asso - of control is very high. Unfortunately, as hostil - Karabagh. This is one of the major obstacles to notice that it really hasn’t changed any coun - ciate professor of anthropology who has ities die down each year, we tend to forget this a resolution of the conflict, together with the try’s position, even Ukraine’s – those opposed been excavating in the South Caucasus risk. unwillingness of Nagorno-Karabagh to relin - to membership continue to oppose, those who region for 15 years. “It’s a good alterna - It is also hard to understand exactly what the quish occupied territories around the former supported membership continue to support tive to kites, balloons or sitting in the intentions of President Aliyev are, but his NKAO. If there were a peace agreement, it (even if they are unhappy about it). Unless bucket of a crane with a camera trying to speech about war did not seem to be a direct would have to include an international peace - Moscow genuinely has the power to force inte - visually document these ancient sites. threat. It sounded more like a warning that keeping contingent in Nagorno-Karabagh that gration on its neighbors, Soviet-style (which I Drones offer a detailed aerial perspective Azerbaijan has not given up on its lost territo - Azerbaijan would not have the right to evict, as doubt), the fate of these projects depends on that we’ve never had before, and by lever - ries and does not intend to, while serving as a well as at least unarmed observers in neigh - their economic attractiveness as compared to aging this technology archaeologists can rhetorical way for Aliyev to end this latest round bouring territories that would themselves have the attractiveness of alternative models such as be more efficient in the field as drones of hostilities. to constitute a demilitarized zone. We are far those the EU offers. The greatest opportunity give us an immediate sense of spatial sci - At the same time, Aliyev saw this summer away from such a solution, however. In the for the Customs Union/Eurasian Union is if ence scale useful for planning excava - how much the West supported Ukraine in its meantime, confidence-building measures that greater integration with the EU fails to provide tion.” efforts to fight externally-supported separatism could be implemented are simple, on both sides, the anticipated economic benefits. Lindsay’s 3:49 minute video of various in the Donbas, as well as Israel’s use of force in if there were only political will – a lessening of Disillusionment in Moldova, Georgia, and field Armenian sites from this summer is Gaza. He is surely convinced that Azerbaijan, war rhetoric, a drawdown of snipers, safe treat - Ukraine would be the greatest stimulus for the available online. The drone, flying 300 too, has the legitimate right to use force; it is ment and return of detainees, and at least par - success of these Russia-led projects. meters from the ground, navigated the only a question of whether he can succeed. For valleys and mountains of the now, Azerbaijan’s military success remains a Tsaghkahovit Plain and Mt. Aragats very big question mark, which fortunately helps region to provide a view that is better put a brake on escalation to full-scale war. quality and less - Can we say that Europe would be more inter - One Caucasus Festival Uses expensive than images captured by ested to stop Azerbaijan from waging a war now satellite or mapping imagery. Lindsay is than it was in 1991 (when no one stopped the co-director of Project ArAGATS Azeri aggression), given the fact that Azerbaijan Music to Bring Youth Closer (Archaeology and Geography of Ancient is now an exporter of gas and oil to Europe, with Transcaucasian Societies), that focuses on BP having big shares in the Caspian, which will TSERAVKI, Georgia (ArmeniaNow) — From from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Poland, the exploration of southern Caucasia’s be endangered in case of the resumption of mili - August 28 to 31, the One Caucasus Festival took Ukraine and other countries. rich past and the preservation of modern tary hostilities? To what extent can this factor place in the Tseravki District of Georgia bordering For the four festival days, the One Caucasus Armenia’s diverse cultural heritage. actually constitute a deterrent against possible both Armenia and Azerbaijan. The site was strate - Main Stage hosted new international music pro - Funds from Purdue’s College of Liberal Azerbaijani aggression? gically chosen by the organizers of the initiative jects including: Clive Brown (UK/Jamaica) and Arts and Office of Executive Vice - I would like to think that Europeans worry that seeks to create an inspirational and safe the First Caucasus Gospel Choir (Caucasus); President for Research and Partnerships more about the human cost of a full-scale war space for young people of the Caucasus to meet. Julian Chambers (UK/Jamaica/Barbados) and supported the new drone technology. in the Caucasus than they do about the poten - Musicians from several European and African Marneli (Georgia); Pako Sarr (Senegal) and Lindsay also is collaborating with Adam T. tial risk to the pipelines, which for now supply countries, including the United Kingdom, Gordela (Georgia); Volosi (Poland) and Smith, Cornell University professor and relatively little energy to Europe and would, in Senegal and Ukraine, performed to an audience Chveneburebi (Georgia); Natural Born Lovers co-director of the Project ArAGATS, and the worst case, only be down temporarily. I also that was mostly made up of residents from the (Georgia) and some of the best jazz/blues musi - the Aragats Foundation, which encour - don’t think the potential European reaction to nearby Armenian village of Shahoumyan. The cians of the region (Caucasus); Folknery ages and supports archaeological an attack on the pipeline is a deterrent to region hasn’t seen an event of such scope since (Ukraine) amd Caucasus Folk/Reggae/Ska tourism, education and development in Azerbaijan, if it was truly determined to wage the break-up of the Soviet Union. Vibrations (Caucasus). Armenia. war. Those concerned about the fate of the One Caucasus is a bottom-up initiative creat - The project was co-funded by Polish Ministry pipeline would likely blame whichever side ed by art managers, culture activists and artists of Culture and National Heritage. 4 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL International News The Last Armenians of Myanmar Pedro Mouratian Elected now Iran. From there, many travelled on Orthodox tradition. By Andrew Whitehead in later years to form a commercial net - That Orthodox lineage could be key to President of Anti- work which stretched from Amsterdam the survival of the church — as a spiritu - to Manila. al home to all the various forms of Discrimination Group YANGON (BBC World Service) — One Their influence in the British Raj Orthodox Christianity as well as a last of the oldest churches in Myanmar, also reached its peak in the late 19th Century, vestige of an almost-gone Armenian com - BUENOS AIRES (Agencia Prensa Armenia) — Pedro known as Burma, is struggling to keep when census records suggest that about munity. Mouratian, chairman of the National Institute going — its congregation only occasional - 1,300 Armenians were living principally Already diplomats, business visitors against Discrimination, Xenophobia and Racism ly reaches double figures. But the open - in Calcutta, Dhaka and Rangoon. and tourists from a range of Orthodox (INADI) and one of the sponsors of the National ing up of the country to outside invest - Their closeness to the Burmese royal countries and churches — Russian, Law 26,199 that declared April 24 as “Day of ment and tourism is offering new hope. court gave them a particularly privileged Greek, Serbian — occasionally swell the Action for tolerance and respect between peoples” Reverend John Felix, priest at the status in Rangoon’s trading community. numbers at St John the Baptist, the only in Argentina, was elected president of the Latin Armenian church in Yangon, also known The land on which the church stands is Orthodox church in Myanmar’s biggest American Network of Organizations and city. Discrimination(RIOOD) at a meeting held in the A new worshipper here, Ramona Argentinean Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August Tarta, is Romanian, a globetrotting busi - 27. nesswoman, publisher and events orga - Mouratian stated that “in the last 10 years there nizer who has lived in Yangon for the last has been a clear and firm policy in Argentina to few months. adress the issue of discrimination and human “My faith is very important to me. rights” and stressed that the importance of the Wherever I am in the world, I seek out an RIOOD would be to “take the public policy on non- Orthodox church. But I was about to give discrimination in Argentina to other international up on Yangon. I thought it was the only bodies.” city I’d ever lived in which had no Orthodox place of worship,” she com - Civilians Killed in Bus plains. She chanced across the Armenian Attack in Eastern Syria church when driving past, and believes DAMASCUS (Panorama.am) — A Syrian government airstrike hit a bus carrying civilians in eastern Syria on Wednesday, killing at least 13 people, most of them children, opposition activists said, The Armenian Church in Chennai The Associated Press reported. But the government in the capital, Damascus, as Rangoon, can’t speak Armenian — but blamed the Islamic State group for the incident, then neither can his congregation. Not describing it as “yet another massacre” committed that there is much of a congregation by the extremist group. these days — just seven, myself included, Activists said the aircraft-fired missile struck the on a recent Sunday morning. bus in the village of Shoula as it was traveling to The 150-year-old church enjoys an Damascus from the eastern Deir el-Zour province. imposing location, at a street corner in The civilians on the bus were the latest victims in downtown Yangon. It’s a beautiful build - Syria’s civil war, which is now in its fourth year and ing, a patch of calm in a bustling city. The which has killed more than 190,000 people, accord- Armenian Orthodox church of St John ing to the United Nations. the Baptist — standing, suitably, on Merchant Street — is almost all that’s left Bartholomew I to Attend of what was one of the city’s main trad - ing communities. Yangon’s Armenian church at the end of WWII Komotini Armenian “To judge from church records, there were once a few hundred Armenian fam - Church Anniversary ilies in Burma but the last ‘full’ Armenian said to have been presented to the that with a little promotion, this historic ATHENS (Armenpress) — During his visit to Thrace, died last year. Across the country, there Armenians by Burma’s king. building — and the tradition to which it Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of are no more than 10 or 20 families who The region’s most prestigious hotels — bears testimony — could have a more Constantinople will meet with the local Armenian are part Armenian — and just a handful including The Strand a short walk from secure future. community and the Armenian clergymen of the still come to the church,” says Felix. the church in downtown Yangon and the If the church reached out more active - Komotini’s Armenian church on September 23. Rachel Minus, in her mid-30s, can sing even more famous Raffles in Singapore — ly to all strands of Orthodoxy then, she Armenian National Committee of Greece member in Armenian — and does with reverence — were established by Armenians. argues, it could attract more worshippers Kerob Eskiazian stated that both social and reli- but can’t speak the language. She But bit-by-bit over the past century and find a renewed purpose. She’s set up gious issues will be discussed with the Patriarch. attends on Sundays with her father, who many in these small Armenian outposts, a Facebook page for the church as a first Eskiazian noted, “The relations between the also tolls the church bells. worried by political and economic insta - step towards getting more attention. Armenian and Greek Churches have always been on “My grandfather was full Armenian bility, have looked for a new home — with Myanmar has had more than its share a high level and in this regard it should be noted and our family name is derived from the Australia the most favoued destination. of troubles and upheaval over the last that the meeting will be held on a fraternal soil. Armenian surname of Minossian. We’re John Felix — whose bishop is based century. The country was occupied by The Armenian community will celebrate the 180th part Armenian and this church and its thousands of miles away in Sydney — is a the Japanese during World War Two, and anniversary of construction of Komotini’s St. services mean a lot to us,” she says. welcoming and enthusiastic clergyman, suffered greater privation and damage to Gregory the Illuminator Church, which is the old- On that Sunday, just one other wor - proud of his church and unbowed by the its infrastructure than almost anywhere est Armenian church in Greece. We are happy that shipper was of Armenian descent. Percy difficulties of keeping going as the con - else in the region. the Patriarch kindly agreed to participate in the Everard has been coming to the church gregation steadily shrinks. Japanese Field Artillery on the march celebrations.” Felix took over as priest of the Yangon in Burma circa 1940 church from his father, who died three Many Armenians were among those years ago after more than 30 years as who embarked on the arduous wartime Georgian PM Highlights minister. Like his father, he was initially trek north through jungle and forest to ordained into the Anglican communion the relative safety of British India — a Cooperation and then re-ordained as an Orthodox memorial in the church lists the 13 mem - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — On August 22, Chairman priest. bers of one Armenian family who died of the National Assembly of Armenia Galust He was born in Myanmar, speaks during the journey. Sahakyan received the delegation led by the Prime Burmese — but is of south Indian origin, Burma gained independence from Minister of Georgia Irakli Garibashvili, who was and so has his roots in another of the Britain in 1948, several months after India paying an official visit to the country. The Deputy migrant communities which once made and Pakistan. Within a few years, it had a of the National Assembly of the Republic of Yangon such a thriving commercial hub. military-backed government which made Armenia Eduard Sharmazanov, the Secretary He worries about the upkeep of the little effort to develop commercial links General of the National Assembly of the Republic building. “There are three spots in the beyond the country’s borders. The army’s of Armenia Hrayr Tovmasyan, parliament members roof where the water’s coming in, and we violent suppression in 1988 of the democ - from the National Assembly of the Republic of need to get them fixed.” racy movement further heightened the Armenia, as well as the ambassadors of the two But this is by any standards a neat, country’s international isolation. countries attended the meeting. The National well-kept church, and an important part Over the past few years, Myanmar has Assembly press office reported that the chairman Percy Everard of Yangon’s rich colonial-era architectur - been edging towards greater democracy, of the National Assembly of Armenia, Galust al heritage which is increasingly attract - and has started to open its doors more Sahakyan, welcomed the guests and stated that ing tourists and international attention. widely to foreign business and invest - this visit proves once again the willingness of the for decades. His wedding, the priest Sunday worship has all the hallmarks ment. What was one of Asia’s most inter - two countries to strengthen and expand the com- believes, was the last to be conducted at of an Orthodox church service — icons, national cities is again starting to devel - prehensive cooperation. the church — but it’s so distant no one is incense and, in spite of the slender atten - op a more global aspect. quite sure how long ago it took place. dance, entrancing hymn singing. Felix And a church which has its roots in an In the early 17th Century, large num - doesn’t wear the ornate priestly robes in earlier era of international commerce bers of Armenians fled the Ottoman which his father once conducted cere - may find fresh succor from a new bout of Empire and settled in Isfahan in what’s monies, but he remains firmly part of the globalization. S ATURDAY , SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 Community Ne ws

Consecration of Information St. Hovhaness Church In Berd to Take Place Technology in On September 14 Armenia and

FRESNO — The faithful in the town of Berd, the center of 16 villages of the Shamshadeen Diaspora Topic Region of the Tavoush Marz, Armenia, await the consecration on September 14 of the new St. Of AESA Talk Hovhaness Church, which will replace the St. Gevork Church destroyed by the Soviets in the PASADENA, Calif. — Three entrepreneurs, 1920s. The newly completed church was made Harmik Baghdasarian, Al Eisaian and Aram Ter- possible by the generous financial support of Martirosyan, from Los Angeles, who have estab - late benefactor from Fresno, California, John D. lished various successful information technology Stephens. It has enabled the spiritual revival of (IT) related businesses in Armenia will present this major center in Northeastern Armenia. their stories, successes, and difficulties. They will Karekin II, Catholicos of all Armenians, in address how to be profit-driven and not philan - recognition of the generosity of its major bene - thropy-driven, establish and maintain high stan - factor, decided to rename the Church St. dards, how to compete and operate in Armenia, Hovhaness in his honor. and most importantly how to commit time and The late benefactor John Stephens (Stepanian) resources. This lecture, hosted by the Armenian was born on August 28, 1928 in Fresno, to The vital signs station Engineers and Scientists of America (AESA), will Dickran and Ardem Stepanian, who immigrated be held on Tuesday, September 16, at 7:30 pm at to the United States Parson Corporation, 100 West Walnut St. from the Western “This will be a great opportunity for people Armenia cities of AMAA’s 6th Medical who are thinking to establish businesses in high Kharpert and Ordu, tech in Armenia to hear how these three entre - respectively, prior to preneurs have succeeded” stated AESA President the Genocide of 1915. Vasken Yardemian. “It will provide us with great Stephens lived in Mission Trip to Armenia opportunities to learn from their experiences and Fresno his entire life share their entrepreneurial insights on how to and died on April 19, PARAMUS, N.J. — For the sixth year in a row, Dr. Al and Sue Phillips have led a group create something that people want.” 2007, at the age of 78. of medical professionals and volunteers on a 10 day Medical Mission trip to Armenia. This Baghdasarian has a BS in computer science Rev. Aram year the group was quite large with 40 volunteers and six Armenian translators. The team from London University, England. He has been Mirzoyan is the pas - The late John Stephens consisted of three physicians, one physician’s assistant, four nurses, one dentist, one lab involved in implementation of large-scale ERP sys - tor of the new church technician and many willing workers. The majority of the team members arrived in tems for various global organizations, such as as well as the spiritu - Yerevan on June 19, and spent the weekend touring the city and outlying areas. They Epson Inc., Sony Enterprises and Able Freight in al leader of the entire Shamshadeen region, also attended the Sunday Worship Service at the Evangelical Church of Armenia on the US. He has been an active member of the population 31,000. Born in the Shamshadeen Baghramyan Street in Yerevan. community and has been actively involved in village of Chinari on the border of Azerbaijan, The first two days the clinic was set up in the Armenian Evangelical Church of working with Armenia in pursue of creating IT- he is youthful, charismatic, energetic and dedi - Vanadzor, where patients came from Tumanyan, Spitak, Shirakamut, Gumri, related jobs. In October 1997, he started out - Dilijan, Ijevan and Alaverdi. sourcing software development projects to Following Vanadzor, the team travelled to Stepanavan and set up the clinic in Armenia and has been continuing it since then. Construction Sponsored by Benefactor the Social Services Center of the Armenian Missionary Association of America His current organization, Ogma Inc., has been (AMAA) and Evangelical Church in Stepanavan. officially working in Yerevan as a software devel - John Stephens of Fresno Each patient that came through the clinic entered through the triage section. opment company and has been able to complete a large number of successful projects in areas of cated to the revival and survival of the region’s First the patient’s vital signs were obtained and urine screened for diabetes and web and mobile development. strategic border communities. He is concerned kidney disorders. The patient’s medical history was obtained by our nurses and Eisaian is an entrepreneur, technology investor with not only restoring the Christian faith of the medical students. If necessary, an EKG or lab work was obtained. From triage, the and advisor. He has an MBA from Pepperdine population, but also helping solve the social, patient was sent to the physicians. Here each was examined and medications pre - University and a BSEE from Oklahoma State economic and security issues of the region, scribed. They then went to the pharmacy where their prescriptions were filled and University. His most recent company, IconApps, endangered by continuous sniper attacks from were consulted on how to properly take the medication. While the patients wait - Inc., where he served as founder, chairman and bordering Azeri snipers. Mirzoyan commented, ed, lectures on medical topics were given by our nurse educator and they were edu - CEO, was acquired by Science Inc. He has served “Without the generosity of Mr. Stephens the cated on smoking cessa - as the global head of Product Strategy and building of our St. Hovhaness Church would tion, diabetes and proper Marketing for Opera Solutions, a Big-Data ana - have remained only a dream. Now that we will eating. This year we had lytics company from 2010-2011. In 2005, he co- again have a church in the center of Berd, we with us a dentist who founded and served as executive chairman of can fulfill our God-given duty to revive and educated and treated Integrien Corporation in Armenia until its acqui - enrich the Christian spirit of our population, with fluoride the children sition by VMWare in 2010 for $103 million. He co- which was dormant for 70 years during Soviet and young adults. As in founded and served as CEO of CreationPoint rule.” the past, reading glasses Systems, a systems management software and A close acquaintance of Stephens, Deacon were also distributed to services company from 2001-2005. He served as Allan Yeghia Jendian of Fresno, said, “Mr. those with poor vision. the SVP and General Manager of LowerMyBills, Stephens was a kind and generous individual, This year the Team Inc. acquired by Experian Corporation (for $400 see CONSECRATION, page 6 reached an all-time high record for number of million) from 2000-2001. Dr. Al Phillips in consultation with a patient in Vanadzor patients seen by physi - Ter-Martirosyan holds a BS from UCLA in com - cians: 1,005. If included puter science and engineering and an MBA from those seen by the dentist Pepperdine University. He started his professional and those who just wanted glasses, over 1,250 patients were impacted in one career in 1993 at Lexi International, a telecommu - week. nications company, as a software engineer and At the conclusion of the week, the team returned to Yerevan via Lake Sevan and went rapidly advanced to senior software engineer, pro - to Echmiadzin and Khor Virap and had a celebration banquet, recounting the miracu - ject manager and ultimately, software architect. In lous ways how God worked among the people the Team members saw and how God 1999, he joined Hi-Tech Gateway, Inc. as cofounder touched the team members personally as they served those seen. and CIO. Hi-Tech is a software development com - This year there were some advances in the team’s ability to care for the patients. pany in Armenia involved in developing telecom - First, a donation was received to purchase an EKG machine and two professional- munications related programs that have extensive quality blood pressure machines. Second, over the last year, the AMAA staff in experience in developing web-based and mobile Armenia had scanned all the medical records of patients seen during the past five applications. Ter-Martirosyan cofounded ConnectTo years. Surveying these records it was surprising to know that up until this year Communications, Inc., which provides an array of over 2,500 people had received medical treatment. With this year’s mission, that telecommunications services for consumers and number exceeds 3,500. businesses including telephone, Internet, wireless, The Medical Mission Team has an operating budget from the AMAA to pur - security and IPTV services. chase medications to provide a one-year supply to the patients. The lecture series presented by the Armenian The team will return to Armenia in June 2015 for their seventh mission trip. To Engineers and Scientists of America are open to get more information and an application, visit amaa.org. the public and free of admission charge. The The St. Hovhaness Church in Berd space is limited and an RSVP by e-mail to [email protected] is requested. 6 S ATURDAY , SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS James G. Sahagian Appointed Associate Trustee of ACAA Endowment Funds RICHMOND, Va. — At their official meeting Seta. on June 30, the Armenian Cultural Association They are of America, Inc. (AACA) Board of Directors members of St. appointed James G. Sahagian of New Jersey as Leon associate trustee of the ACAA Endowment Armenian Funds. Church in New Sahagian has been a financial advisor with Jersey and Wells Fargo Advisors since 2009. His profes - reside in sional work is with individuals and institutional Airmont, NY. clients on wealth and risk management, and This wealth wealth transfer strategies. He has over 15 years of experience of professional experience in this field. and knowl - Sahagian earned his BS in accounting from edge which Rutgers University and has a MBA from the Sahagian James G. Sahagian Rutgers Graduate School of Management. brings to the Sahagian was involved in establishing and ACAA promoting the Armenian Studies Program at Endowment Funds will enhance the continuing Rutgers University while a student, and has con - growth from humble beginnings of under tinued to lead this effort for more than 20 years. $195,000 in 1997 to more than several million This program has sponsored Armenian lan - to date. The ACAA provides grants to further guage and history courses and has recently Armenian-language newspapers, academic stud - partnered with the University’s Center for ies, Armenian internships, Armenian cultural Genocide Studies and Human Rights. programs and other endeavors to “foster a bet - Sahagian is married to the former Maral ter relationship for the Armenian nation.” Halajian and they have two children, Ari and — Bedros Bandazian

Consecration of St. Hovhaness Church in Berd to Take Place On September 14

CONSECRATION, from page 5 restore hope and the Christian spirit of the always ready to assist his church and worthy faithful in Berd and surrounding villages, causes in the community.” threatened daily by Azeri aggression.” Stephens was a grape grower for 47 years in Mr. Stephens’ legacy of service to the Kerman, a rural area outside of Fresno. He was Armenian Church and the Armenian nation will an active and dedicated member of St. Paul remain for years to come as a major benefactor Armenian Church, serving on the Parish to Holy Echmiadzin, the Western Diocese of the Council several terms, as its Chairman in 1989, USA, St. Paul Parish of Fresno, and now, the St. and on numerous other church committees. His Hovhaness Church in Berd. His memory is a Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a life was spent worshiping God and giving of shining example of a truly dedicated Armenian himself to his church. who not only cherished his Armenian heritage In the summer 2006, he fulfilled a dream by but gave generously of his energy and resources visiting Armenia and meeting with Karekin II, to perpetuate it. Edward D. Jamie, Jr. Catholicos of All Armenians, and pledging his He was preceded in death by his parents financial support to fund the building of two Dickran and Ardem Stepanian. He cared for Funeral Chapel new churches in Armenia, approximately $1 mil - them with love and kindness into their later Serving the entire Armenian Community lion of which went towards the construction of years. He was survived by his sister Isabel Any Hour • Any Distance • Any Location Berd’s St. Hovhaness Church. The Very Rev. Torosian, now deceased, and two nephews, Call (718) 224-2390 Toll Free (888) 224-6088 Sasoon Zumrookdian, the Vicar of the Tavoush Harry and Richard Torosian, niece, Dorothy Region at the time of Stephens’ visit, was his Nugent, and seven great-nieces and great- Bus. Reg. 189-06 Liberty Ave., Hollis, NY 11412 Consultation Office: 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside,NY 11361 pastor in Fresno from 1990-1999. Stephens was nephews. Funeral services were held at St. Paul honored in Armenia during this first and only Armenian Church on April 27, 2007, followed visit. by interment at the Ararat Armenian Cemetery Jack Medzorian of Winchester, Mass., who of Fresno. has visited Berd annually for the past 25 years Diaspora Armenians, though not called upon commented, “We are delighted that Mr. to make the sacrifices of the heroic folks who Stephens decided to help build the new St. defend the frontiers in this strategic area of Hovhaness Church, especially in this important Armenia, may help by supporting this project GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E regional center of Armenia. I was privileged to by making a tax-deductible donation. Checks James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC participate in the ground-breaking/blessing of may be made payable to the Diocese of the Mark J. Giragosian the church foundation in the spring of 2012, Armenian Church, memo “Spiritual Revival Funeral Counselors and honored to become one of its godfathers. Fund St. Hovhaness Church-Berd,” and 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 Mr. Stephens made a wise decision in selecting mailed to: Diocese of the Armenian Church, www.giragosianfuneralhome.com this location, as the new Church will help 630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 100016.

OBITUARY Telephone (617) 924-7400 Armenine (Markarian) Sapah-Gulian Aram Bedrosian FAIR LAWN, N.J. — Armenine (Markarian) ticularly focused on creating a forum for young Sapah-Gulian, who died at the age of 94, leaves Armenians to share in and be proud of their cul - Funeral Home, Inc. behind a strong legacy of inspiration, ture through dance. She and her husband had Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 unmatched memories and life. She will always been Arthur Murray Ballroom Dancers and had be remembered by the competed and won many awards in international MARION BEDROSIAN many people that she influ - dance competitions at such noted halls as 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN enced around the world Carnegie Hall. The intersection of their strong WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN with her great charm, wit Armenian culture and their love of dance and caring attitude. spawned five Armenian dance groups across the Born September 11, 1919, United States. Her involvement in not only the to Aghavni and Karnig organization, but in the lives of the youth on a Markarian, she was active in personal level, earned her the loving title of Nardolillo Funeral Home all things Armenian. “Auntie Armenine.” Armenine Est. 1906 (Markarian) She was the wife of Vart She is survived by her son, Randolph, and Sapah-Gulian Sapah-Gulian and mother wife Corinne, along with her three grand - John K. Najarian, Jr. to Randolph Sapah-Gulian. daughters, Alexa, Olivia and Gabrielle. She is Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director She was active in the also survived by her brother, Albert Markarian. Armenian General Benevolent Union, eventually Services were held at Saint Leon Armenian 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 rising to the role of vice chairman of the Central Church, Fair Lawn, NJ on Friday, August 29. 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 Committee of America. She was noted for her In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made work in developing the organization’s youth pro - to AGBU Antranig Dance Ensemble, 79 White www.nardolillo.com grams in theatre, dance and sports. She was par - Beeches Drive; Dumont, NJ 07628. S ATURDAY , SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Trinity Family Festival and Opening of Church Schools to Be Held on September 14

The Armenian School program is for children By Seta A. Buchter ages 5 through 18, and meets weekly on Sunday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., for students registered in the Sunday School, and CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Holy Trinity Armenian from 9:30 to 11 a.m., for students registered in Church of Greater Boston is preparing for its the Armenian School only. Classes are taught in annual Trinity Family Festival, which will be Eastern Armenian in three grade levels: begin - held on Sunday, September 14, beginning at ner, intermediate and advanced. Armenian noon, on the grounds of the church at 145 School classes will begin on Sunday, September Brattle St. 21. For further information about the Co-chairing the Festival Committee, again Armenian School program, contact Naira this year, are David Dorian and Jack Ekchian Balagyozian, Armenian School Coordinator, at who invite everyone to attend the event. “Our [email protected],, or call the church office. Trinity Family Festival is always a wonderful afternoon as parishioners and friends come together to kick off the fall season with deli - Hye Pointe Church Picnic Draws 600

By Robert Serabian

HAVERHILL, Mass. — On Sunday, August 24, Chefs at the Grill 600 people attended the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe annual picnic on the grounds of the American Legion Farm. The fine and vocals will perform. And anyone interested Blessing will take place. According to the weather drew crowds from five New England can bring in their tavloo board to play the canons of the Armenian Church, no Requiem states. The picnic began with a Jashou service champions in the Tavloo Challenge. Service (Hokehankisd) will be held. on the picnic grounds followed by a Requiem Dave Dorian and Jack Ekchian (left to right) The ancient tradition of the Blessing of the Holy Trinity Church’s Armenian and Sunday service in memory of departed members of the Madagh will take place at 4 p.m., followed by Schools will kick-off the 2014-2015 year on the Hye Pointe Parish. Picnic attendees enjoyed the raffle drawing for cash prizes. This year’s morning of Sunday, September 14, with regis - excellent Armenian cuisine prepared by the cious food, great music, and especially the raffle prizes include $1,000 cash, first prize; $5 tration for both schools at 10:15 a.m., in the church’s cooking crew. camaraderie that day offers as we reconnect each, 6 for $25 or 12 for $50 and $300, second Peter Adamian Hall of the church complex. Music for the event was provided by Hye with family and friends after the summer hia - prize; and $200, third prize. Tickets can be Sunday School classes, which will start on Pointe’s own seven-piece Jason Naroian tus,” stated Dorian and Ekchian. obtained by calling the Holy Trinity Church September 14, meet weekly from 10:30 a.m. to Ensemble, with Mal Barsamian on his saxo - Traditional Armenian food, beverages and office, emailing [email protected], or buying on noon, in the Peter Adamian Hall. The Sunday phone. There was a surprise visit from Jay pastries will be available throughout the after - the day of the Festival. School program, which ranges in grades from Baronian who sang and played a few songs. The noon for eating on site as well as take-out. The morning will begin with the Divine Pre-School through 12, is open to all children church raffle had prizes totaling $1,000, as well Children will be able to enjoy the “Moonwalk” Liturgy at 10 a.m., celebrated by Fr. Vasken A. and youth, ages 3 to 17. To be eligible for as gift certificates to area restaurants and bou - all afternoon, and balloon animals and face- Kouzouian, pastor of Holy Trinity Armenian Sunday School, a child must be 3 years of age tiques. Representatives from area clergy and painting with “Jo-Jo the Clown,” from 1 to 3 Church. On this morning, the Feast of the by September 1, and toilet-trained. Parents city government were in attendance to meet the p.m. The Greg Krikorian Ensemble featuring Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the last major must register their child(ren) as a parental sig - crowd, sample the cuisine, and enjoy the day. Greg Krikorian, oud and vocals; Leon Janikian, Feast Day (Daghavar) of the calendar year, will nature is required. For information regarding clarinet; George Righellis, guitar and vocals; be commemorated. At the conclusion of the the Sunday School program, contact Seta A. Charles Dermenjian, dumbeg; Steve Surabian, Divine Liturgy, the Antasdan Service (Blessing Buchter, Sunday School Superintendent, at tambourine; and Michael Sabounjian, keyboard of the Four Corners) and Basil (Rahan) [email protected], or call the Church office.

An assembly line served food at the picnic

The Parish Council had an informational table on upcoming church activities, as well as plans for the new church complex. The picnic drew attendees from the Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Metro Boston, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island and even a few from New York! The Hye Pointe church picnic reflects a tradition when picnics were held in wooded areas or parks outside of the cities. Each year the picnic attracts a larger following. The picnic provided an opportunity for friends, family and Armenians in the Merrimack Valley to come together and connect for the love of their church, culture, and community. During the past year, the church has held a number of dinners which have been well attend - ed by the community. These dinners will be held periodically throughout the year. For fur - ther information on the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe, visit our new website at www.hyepointearmenianchurch.org. Seeking Advertising Representative The is seekinAgr mae nipaan rMt-tiimrreo r-Sapdevcetrattiosirng sales representative, starting imme - diately. Salary will be based on commis - sion only. Hours are flexible. If interested in the position, contact Hasmik Saroyan at 617-924-4420 or email resume and contact information to [email protected] 8 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS TCA Arshag Dickranian School Starts 2014-2015 Academic Year

LOS ANGELES — With the pomp and circum - Liaison Shirley Kandralyan and Alumni Liaison stance of its traditional opening ceremony, Dr. Lisa Meneshian. Tekeyan Cultural Association’s (TCA) Arshag The Opening Ceremony took place at the Dickranian School (ADS) re-opened its doors for school courtyard, where students ranging from its 34th consecutive scholastic year to its stu - pre-kindergarten through 12th grade gathered dents on Monday, August 25. under the supervision of their teachers, along The guests of the event included Archpriest with the presence of dedicated parents. Manoug Markarian, pastor of St. John Church, Meneshian, who was the MC of the event, wel - school benefactor Hmayak Baltayan, TCA LA comed everyone to the program. She then invit - Chapter Member and former ADS teacher Vatche ed Markarian to the podium, who conveyed the Semerdjian and TCA Beshguetourian Center blessings of Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Chairman Kevork Keushkerian. Among the Primate of the Western Diocese, and then started the ceremony with his prayers, blessing the attendants and the new scholastic year. Next, Meneshian, who was the first student to register at TCA Arshag Dickranian School when it was founded in 1981, shared the memo - ry of her registration at the school, where she first met Mandossian, Dr. Seraydarian delivers his speech. and had a picture taken Tenth grade students Lily and Ani Sarafian recite poetry. with him. She proceed - ed by inviting Mandossian to deliver greeted the attendants and welcomed the stu - Board Members attending were Chairman his message on behalf of the Board. dents to the new academic year and reminded all George K. Mandossian, Vice Chair Parsegh Mandossian greeted the students, parents, of the importance of the roles knowledge, educa - Kartalian, Treasurer Angine Garibyan, PTO teachers and guests, and noted the developments tion and discipline play in our lives. He intro - that had taken place at the school during the duced the new teachers, the new addition of a summer vacation, such as the installation of a dean of students and the shift the school has security surveillance system throughout the cam - made in the textbooks to be used this academic pus to ensure efficient safety measures and year, in compliance with new standards of educa - upgrading teachers’ kitchen to a brand new one, tion. Following Dr. Seraydarian’s speech, tenth which was a donation from parent Gagik grade students Lily and Ani Sarafian recited the Kniazian and the labor Andy Asatryan of Apple poems “Hayots Lezoun” and “Keechenk Payts Home Developer Inc. Another highlight of Hayenk” by Barooyr Sevag. The first grade stu - Mandossian’s speech was thanking high school dents then released balloons with the colors of art history teacher, Polet Zargarian, and middle the Armenian flag and sounded the first bell of and elementary school art teacher, Ani the school day. Vardanyan, for adding a mural to the walls of the At the conclusion of the program, Meneshian courtyard with the help of students from 5th wished everyone a fruitful new scholastic year through 9th grades. He invited to the podium stu - and asked parents and guests to enjoy the First grade students release balloons with the dents who had dedicated their time to painting refreshments served by the PTO, while students Elementary students opening letters with wise colors of the Armenian flag as a part of the the mural. Mandossian concluded his speech by headed to their classrooms. advice in them Opening Ceremony wishing everyone a productive year. (See related editoral on Armenian day schools Next, the principal, Dr. Manoug Seraydarian, in America on Page 14.) S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Wisconsin Golf Fundraiser Raises $35,000 for Armenian Orphans in Syria

DELAFIELD, Wis. — The Wisconsin chap - including golf and condo vacations, gift bas - ter of the Society for Orphaned Armenian kets, medieval Armenian coins, original art - Relief (SOAR) raised more than $35,000 at its work and handmade lace, sports memorabil - golf outing fundraiser on behalf of needy ia, fine jewelry, Armenian brandy and more. Armenian orphans in Syria and Armenia. Mike Bode also ran a vigorous live auction The fifth annual Armenian orphanage for a few highly desirable items. fundraiser in Wisconsin was held this year at “Given the enormous humanitarian crisis Meadowbrook Country Club, Racine, on June facing the Armenian community in Syria, 22. The weather was perfect for the 80-plus the great majority of the funds raised this golfers who registered. Following the tourna - year will be allocated to aiding three ment, over 125 local Armenians and friends orphanages in Syria where Armenian chil - gathered at the country club for a banquet dren reside,” said Dr. Hajinian. “Damages catered by Di Carlo’s. to these facilities has been extensive and This was the fifth annual Wisconsin basic items are in short supply. Donations orphanage benefit event, and by far the most received will go a long way toward allevi - successful to date. Since 2010, the committee ating those needs.” has raised more than $85,000 within Sadly, a few days before the golf outing, Wisconsin. Wisconsin SOAR Co-president Terry Wisconsin golf legends, from left, Chuck Guest of honor at the banquet was George Hadjinian Peterson passed away after a long Pehlivanian, Kay Mikaelian, Archie Dadian Yacoubian Jr., of Philadelphia, executive direc - honored by Wisconsin SOAR battle with cancer, and the event was dedi - tor of SOAR, who commended the local orga - cated to her memory. “Terry was a dedicat - nizing committee for its humanitarian spirit. ed and energetic member of our board,” said The program was emceed Dr. Chuck Hajinian, event honored famous Wisconsin Armenian Dr. Levon Saryan, treasurer of the co-president of the Wisconsin SOAR chapter, golfers Archie Dadian, Chuck Pehlivanian, Wisconsin SOAR chapter. “Her absence will Racine new spaper article featu who gave additional insight on the needs of and Kay Mikaelian. A silent auction included be deeply felt. But we know she would have res orphans of 1915 orphans in Syria and Armenia. This year’s a number of exceptional donated items, wanted the event to go forward.” Numerous worthwhile projects have been funded by Wisconsin SOAR in recent years, The Wisconsin organizing committee con - including rebuilding a fire-damaged orphan - sisted of Dr. Chuck and Mary Kay Hajinian, age in Yerevan, establishing a functioning Terry Hadjinian Peterson, Dr. David and Eddi dental clinic, providing warm clothes and bed - Schmitt, Harold and Kathleen Aghjian and ding, and supporting orphan summer camps family, Levon and Shirley Saryan, Dr. Gary, to provide physical and social enrichment for Nancy and William Seabrook, Mike and Lori children during the summer months. Bode (who together organized the tourna - When asked why he was organizing this ment and the auctions), Kathy Lestina, Jason, effort, Hajinian replied: “Look into the eyes of Anne and Sam Samuelian, AJ and Sarah these orphan children. These were the eyes of Bianchi, and Vahan and Dawn Kamalian. my grandmother who grew up in an orphan - Substantial support was also provided Ara age along with a hundred thousand others Cherchian, Dr. Stacy and Steve Michels, and from 1915. Today, we Armenians now party Danny and Kari D’Acquisto. The event could with a purpose. Join us next year, we are look - not have been a success without help from ing for helpers, or for more information, send numerous volunteers, including William an email to [email protected].” Prior to Seabrook, Sona Mikaelian, Dr. Ani Saryan, the outing the Racine Journal Times pub - Armen Saryan, John Palmar and Victoria lished an extensive feature article focusing on White. The golf event itself was organized by the orphans from 1915 and the present. golf pro Jason Samuelian and his staff at Headquartered in Philadelphia, SOAR now has Meadowbrook CC. dozens of chapters across the US and in many Contributions to SOAR-Wisconsin are still SOAR golf outing volunteers, from left, Sona Mikaelian, Kari Hajinian D’Acquisto, Dr. Ani countries around the world. SOAR provides being accepted. Checks may be mailed to Saryan and Dr. Victoria White financial and moral support for Armenian SOAR-Wisconsin, c/o Dr. Levon Saryan, PO orphans and helps to address their unique needs. Box 210313, Milwaukee, WI 53221-8006.

Former Principal, Community Leader Kevork Marashlian and His Wife Visit Buenos Aires VISIT, from page 1 with a promise that the graduates who already completed their Nearly 20 percent of graduates are active members in different studies, soon join the Armenian community life according to committees in the local AGBU chapter and in other Armenian their areas of interest. establishments of the community; The Marashlians then continued touring the facilities of the 58 percent have married Armenians school and witnessed the classes of students of primary and and 90 percent of all married grad - kindergarten sections, where some of their former students are uates have sent their children to now are teaching. They had also the opportunity to meet and Marie Manoogian Educational have lunch with Artoun Hamalian, director of the Educational Institute. Department of the AGBU Central Board of Directors; Ruben Unfortunately, eight graduates Kechichian and his wife, member of AGBU Central Board of have passed away, either through Directors; and Nahabet Nahabetian, honorary member of the accidents or illnesses. AGBU Buenos Aires. During their visit, the During their stay in Buenos Aires, every time they came to the Marashlians had the opportunity to Kevork Marashlian speak - Armenia Street, Kevork and Vartiter Marashlian visited reunite with former members of the ing to the audience Board of Directors of the AGBU, alumni of the Marie Institute Manoogian, with whom they shared trips to Armenia, members 40th Anniversary celebration attendance at AGBU Nazar and of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party and personal friends. Artemis Nazarian Hall

In the secondary section of the Marie Manoogian Institute, accompanied by their former student and now Rector, Prof. Lilian Krapridian, the Marashlians spent time with the 2014 graduates. Kevork Marashlian spoke to them about their gradu - ateing trip to Armenia and the need to transmit their experi - ences either in writing in local newspapers or orally for the rest The Marashlians meeting with the graduating students of the students to understand the importance of touring Armenia to benefit them educationally and personally. In a rich exchange of questions and responses, students asked Sardarabad newspaper and the offices of the Tekeyan Cultural about the Armenian community of Boston, where the Association and encouraged their labor. Besides teaching and Meeting with AGBU leaders Marashlians lived and worked for 25 years, and about the community work, Marashalian was also the editor of the Armenian day schools in the United States. The talk concluded Armenian section of Sardarabad while living in Argentina. 10 S ATURDAY , SEPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Archbishop Barsamian Visits Kansas City Parish

By Anita Zakarian and Bill Rinck

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After months of plan - During dinner the parishioners felt at home ning and weeks of preparation, the Armenian with Barsamian, as he welcomed each person Church community of Kansas City hosted a to offer questions, comments and suggestions. three-day visit by the Primate, Archbishop He was especially interested in how the Khajag Barsamian, on August 8-10. This was Diocese could be more helpful to the Kansas the Primate’s first trip to Kansas City, and the City community. entire community worked diligently to make it Saturday afternoon, a picnic at a local park special and memorable. brought out 70 parishioners to meet the Fr. Tateos Abdalian, the Diocese’s director Primate. of Mission Parishes, arrived on Thursday to The khorovadz was prepared in the tradi - meet with the local parish council to go over tional Armenian “village-style” by the men of last-minute details. the community. They invited the Primate to sit On Friday afternoon, the Primate arrived with them and play a few games of tavloo . and was greeted at the airport by 20 commu - After the picnic, members of the choir had nity members who expressed their excitement an electrifying rehearsal with Khoren and joy. Tigran Topchian, a young parishioner Mekanejian, the Diocesan director of Music and altar server, dressed in Armenian cos - Ministry. The hours flew by as choir members tume, greeted the Primate with the traditional learned how to bring the music of tray bearing salt and bread. the badarak to life. After spending time greeting each person, Sunday morning saw the community’s St. a limousine took the Primate, Abdalian and Garabed Armenian Church filled with parish - Parish Council Chair Gary Hatutian to the ioners awaiting the procession of the Primate Marriott Plaza hotel, where later that into the sanctuary. Most had never seen a evening the council hosted a reception for badarak with a complement of clergy and altar council members, their spouses and commu - servers in their splendid vestments walking in nity leaders. procession. Barsamian was assisted by Fr.

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian congratulates Zaven Hatutian and Armen Hovsepian, recipients of the St. Vartan Award.

Abdalian, deacons Vrej Minassian and Vahe church sanctuary. Bagdasarian; altar servers Gary Hatutian, Two of the founding members of the com - Tigran Topchian and Michael Marifian (who munity — Zaven Hatutian and Armen was visiting from Bellville, Ill.). Mekanejian Hovsepian — were granted the St. Vartan demonstrated that even with a small choir, Award for their many years of service to the beautiful sounds can be produced. St. Garabed Armenian Church of Kansas City. During the Primate’s sermon, he congratu - Both were moved by this honor. lated the community for their resolve to bring Following a requiem service, the Primate the presence of the Armenian Church to moved to the newly installed baptismal font, Parishioners play with Archbishop Barsamian. Kansas City. He also committed himself to which he proceeded to consecrate. Assisted by tavloo returning next year to consecrate the entire Abdalian, who first washed the font with water and wine, the Primate sealed the four corners and the center of the font with holy chrism. He placed priestly vestments on it, along with six candlesticks. With his final blessing, the community gath - Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2014 ered in the church hall to share a meal once again with the Primate. Armenian songs were sung led by Tatev Amiryan, Mekanejian and Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor Njdeh Asisian. a Teacher’ program has raised over $596,000 and reached out to 4,864 teachers and school workers in Armenia and Karabagh.

£

K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have the teacher’s name and address. K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— Name Address City State Zip code Tel:

Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2014 Mail your check with this form to: TCA Sponsor a Teacher Entertainment Fridays 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 and Saturdays Your donation is Tax Deductible. S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 Arts & Living

Rep. Clark Tours Society for Armenian Armenian Museum Studies Publishes Journal Of the Society for WATERTOWN — On August 21, Rep. Katherine Clark (D-Fifth District) and her two Armenian Studies aides, Natalie Kaufman (Watertown liaison) and David Bond, (legislative director, Washington FRESNO, Calif. — The Society for Armenian DC) visited the Armenian Museum of America. Studies announces the publication of volume The museum tour was one of several 22 (2013) of the Journal of the Society for Watertown stops the representative made, Armenian Studies (JSAS). Edited by Dr. Sergio including the Watertown Public Library. La Porta (California State University, Fresno), it Vice president of the Board of Trustees, contains several articles and communications Barbara Merguerian, together with Curator Gary from new contributors to the Journal. Not only Lind-Sinanian and Assistant Director Howayda are the names new, but also their contributions Abu Affan, led a two-hour tour through the provide insight into material that has heretofore museum. The tour explored current exhibitions, received inadequate attention. The appearance including, “Who Are The Armenians,” “The of fresh scholars and scholarship bodes well for Armenian Genocide” and “Karsh: Celebrating the future of the field. Humanity,” which was followed by a discussion Eight articles on various aspects of classical of the events and topics that helped shape and modern Armenian studies, including one in Armenian identity and culture. Armenian, comprise Volume 22. Also included Clark and her aides were impressed by the are six communications, and a revised version museum’s collections and the poignant stories of a talk delivered at National Association for told by the artifacts, especially the rugs in the Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) in Belmont, MA; three review essays and three book reviews. Volume 22 begins with two articles on issues in Classical Armenian Studies. The first, by Robert Hewsen, clarifies the relationship between four seemingly independent, yet inter- related, territories mentioned in early Armenian texts. David Zakarian’s essay focuses on the description of the reigns of the Arshakuni queens, Parandzem and Zarmandukht, in the fourth century, in order to arrive at an analysis of the institution of queenship during the Arshakuni period. Rep. Katherine Clark and Gary Lind-Sinanian Following these two articles are six essays on various topics of modern Armenian history and culture. The section commences with a detailed exhibition “Orphan Rugs: Handworks of examination by Sebouh Aslanian on the book Armenian Orphans & Widows of the Near East Jason Basmajian, Gieves & Hawkes’ new chief creative officer publishing trade that originated at the Relief refugee camps.” Armenian Mkhitarist Monastery in Venice. They viewed the empty space reserved for the Next are three contributions that address dif - famous Coolidge Rug, woven by the Armenian ferent aspects of the Armenian Genocide. In the orphans and sent to President Calvin Coolidge first study, Jonas Kauffelt brings to light the in 1925, which the museum had requested to Savile Row Tailor Sets work of the Danish Lutheran Christian mis - borrow from the White House for this exhibi - sionary, Karen Jeppe (1876-1935), who joined tion. the De Danske Armeniervenner (DDA, the The museum also announced that Clark has Up Shop in the US Danish Friends of Armenia) in 1903. nominated the museum for the 2015 National Vahram Shemmassian, on the other hand, Medal for Museum and Library Service, award - looks at the role the Armenian Prelacy of ed by the Institute of Museum and Library NEW YORK (Wall Street Journal) — Gieves Aleppo played in providing help to refugees Services to community anchor institutions. By Alexa Brazilian & Hawkes, the 243-year-old Savile Row tai - arriving in the early months of the Genocide. lor, has dressed every British sovereign Based upon an examination of two files found since George III. While the menswear in the Prelacy archives, the author sheds impor - brand’s heritage in the U.K. is thoroughly distinguished, its presence this side of the tant light on the humanitarian activities of the AWC-LA Creates Atlantic has been almost nonexistent. However, Refugee Committee formed for the purpose of L A

this month, American men will be able to share a N

R alleviating the plight of the new arrivals. U O tailor with Prince William without a trip to J T

E The final essay concerning the Armenian E

Memorial Book for R T

London, thanks to Bergdorf Goodman, which will S L

L Genocide is by Stefan Ihrig who examines the A

be the brand’s exclusive retailer in the U.S. The W E reception of the assassination of Talât Pasha by H T

Genocide Centennial /

New York department store will offer off-the-rack N I Soghomon Tehlirian in 1921 in the German M A suits, separates and outerwear from the label R N

I public sphere. He concludes that the German T

LOS ANGELES — The Armenian Women’s R along with access to its bespoke and made-to-mea - A M media came to accept that something akin to Coalition of Los Angeles (AWC-LA), a group of sure services. “In the last 10 to 15 years, the brand Armenian women representing 13 different genocide (the word not yet having been invent - had fallen a bit quiet,” said Jason Basmajian, ed) had occurred, clearly describing the killing organizations, will commemorate the centenni - Gieves’s new chief creative officer, who was al of the Armenian Genocide with an educa - of the Armenians as the annihilation or exter - poached from Brioni last year to expand its hori - mination of a people. tional event on January 17, 2015 at Woodbury zons geographically and aesthetically. “We want to University, Burbank. The final two articles of this volume concern embrace our heritage but dust it off and bring it themselves with modern Armenian literature. As part of the effort to honor and preserve forward.” That meant slimming down suits, the legacy of Armenian Women Ancestors, a In her study of Leonardo Alishan’s poetics, branching into casual knitwear and outerwear and Alina Gharabegian suggests that an examina - memorial book is being prepared to coincide playing with the house’s beginnings as an outfit - with this event. This memorial book will include tion of affective cultural difference presented in ter to the British army, navy and landed gentry. the Armenian literary tradition can potentially a compilation of the profound stories of the “For fall we were inspired by the Scottish high - Armenian women who faced the horrors of the collapse categories of East and West that are lands but with a sophisticated perspective,” he often strictly defined through religious lines in Genocide yet were able to find a way to survive said. “The collection doesn’t read, ‘Here’s my and help the family live on. There are many sto - Western scholarship. drooling dog and gun.’” And finally, Alvard Semirdjyan-Bek’mezyan ries that remain private among individual fami - This notion can be seen in gray suits construct - lies. Unfortunately, as the years pass, these explores the development and modification of ed of cashmere and wool, a smoky-colored top coat linguistic features of modern and post-modern unbelievable stories will fade into obscurity. made from an alpaca blend and a lean indigo duf - The AWC-LA seeks to preserve and record as Eastern Armenian prose fiction. fel coat. “It’s a modern interpretation of British The communications included in this volume many stories as possible for future generations. style,” said Bill Cournoyer, Bergdorf’s vice presi - Members are calling upon the community to similarly address a wide range of topics, includ - dent of men’s clothing and furnishings. “Jason’s ing the interpretation of a passage in Movses contribute the amazing stories of survival, in given the brand an international look.” The com - order to preserve the tragic, yet heroic actions Xorenac‘i’s History of the Armenians concern - pany headquarters, in London, is also getting a ing the construction of Artashat; corrections to of our women ancestors. face-lift for September, with renovations and an They are seeking the involvement of the chil - Gieves & Hawkes suit, Bergdorf Bedoukian’s study of Artashesian coins; the updated archive room that is available to visit by Goodman, Styling by Anne dren and grandchildren of these women. therapeutic application of music in medieval appointment. Next on Basmajian’s to-do list: a free- Cardenas Armenia; an analysis of a Mamluk inscription To fill out their questionnaire, visit their face - standing Gieves & Hawkes store in the US. book page www.facebook.com/pages/Save- see JOURNAL, page 13 Our-Past-Memorial-Book/1451136551830664). 12 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Avedis’ Story: An Armenian Boy’s Journey

and had their own Armenian and Armenian When his father learned they were alive and in With so many memoirs and published histo - By Aram Arkun Protestant schools and churches. In all, they Constantinople, he sent money through the ries of villages in the Kharpert plain, it would be Mirror-Spectator Staff were some 150 families. The men worked pri - Near East Relief organization to help them interesting for newly published works to cross- marily as craftsmen, and also kept bees to make come. By June 1921 Abrahamian honey. Each family also grew fruits and vegeta - and his mother reached Providence, These memoirs are an edited transcribed ver - bles for its own use. The males in Abrahamian’s RI, and finally reunited with his sion of a recorded narration made in 1969 by a family interestingly were thought to have inher - father moved to New York, joining survivor of the Armenian Genocide. Avedis ited the power of faith healing. other members of the family already Albert Abrahamian, the survivor, had spent Little information is given on the daily life of in the US. The book ends with a decades pondering the events he and his people Turkish neighbors in Sheykh Hadji, who enter brief description of the rejuvenated endured. Finally, after much time elapsed his the story primarily with the description of the life of the survivors, which according daughter, Dr. Carolann Najarian, made the Genocide. Many terrible events are related, until to Abrahamian seems to have gener - effort to prepare and publish her father’s the author and surviving members of his fami - ally been happy again despite the account with the help of other family members ly escape via the Kurdish-populated mountain - recent period of traumas. and in-laws. Najarian was motivated also to trav - ous area of Dersim to the zone occupied by Abrahamian and his circle also el with tour guide Armen Aroyan to her father’s Russian troops who had controlled some of the began to take an interest in the native village of Sheykh Hadji (today named eastern territories of the Ottoman Empire by broader world politically, and was Yukaribag) in Kharpert (Harput) province, part 1916. The family goes from Erzingan (Erzincan) sensitive to social injustice against of the historically Armenian territory ruled by to Trebizond and then to Tiflis (Tbilisi), Georgia, others. the Ottoman Empire in the past and Turkey at via Batumi. The author describes the chaos of When the author reflects on his present. those days due to rapidly changing political cir - acts during the Genocide and imme - Abrahamian’s story in its broad outlines is cumstances. Meanwhile, the Armenian refugees diate post-war period, he regrets two similar to that of many other Genocide sur - had to scramble to earn their livings. After the incidents in which he beat up Turks vivors, while the details are useful to add to our Russian Revolution the author and many other when he had a chance. He found understanding of village life and Genocide in Armenians fled on foot toward Russia, fearing these to be “blind acts of hatred.” As the context of other contemporary sources. It what would happen in Tiflis without the a boy, he also fantasized about wip - also is another example of the thoughts and Russian army as protection. ing out the Turks entirely from the reactions of a man who went through horrific Abrahamian felt that it was the Turks forcing earth, or at least entire cities, but as events but managed to come out alive. the Armenians into exile, and wrote, evidently a mature man “I realized that it The volume, published in 2014, is a brief with hindsight that “for the generation that was would be a very cruel act because work of 111 pages, including the editor’s intro - to follow them, their offspring would be forced many innocent people would suffer duction and acknowledgments, and an into distant lands and eventually to be assimi - who had absolutely nothing to do appendix with a family tree and notes on the lated and forever lost to the Armenian nation” with the real guilty persons. Cruelty fate of each family described in the memoir. (p. 57). He feels that the Armenians, or at least breeds cruelty and therefore it has to There are a number of family pictures and doc - he himself, survived out of sheer stubbornness stop at some point.” In other words, Armenians reference the older ones and provide some com - uments reproduced. The volume reads well, to thwart an enemy who wanted to exterminate must not seek vengeance. They need to ask for parative analysis in a forward or afterward. This with interesting anecdotes about daily life and them, and were inspired by pride in their resis - justice for past misdeeds not just for Armenians would require the involvement of a specialist. Abrahamian’s family. tance fighters like General Antranig, Sebouh but as “the cause of the human race” (p. 77). (Avedis’ Story: An Armenian Boy’s Abrahamian was born in 1906. He recalls his and Mourad. Abrahamian aptly summarizes the vicissi - Journey childhood as happy, and describes various By the end of 1920, the family made it to tudes of his life at the book’s conclusion: “the By Avedis Albert Abrahamian aspects of village life. There were two separate Constantinople as the start of their journey to joy of those years helped bury the sadness we Edited by Dr. Carolann Najarian quarters in the village, one Armenian and the the United States, where Abrahamian’s father had all experienced. The past was buried but Gomidas Institute, London other Turkish. The Armenians spoke Armenian had come prior to the war for employment. could not be forgotten” (p. 100). ISBN 978-1-909382-13-8)

Tekeyan Cultural Association, Detroit an Evening of Poetry the presentation of two books of poetry by Vahan Tekeyan Armenian and English translations, edited by Edmond Azadian—books will be available for purchase

“Selected Poems” in Armenian Airea D. Matthews, Poet & Performer to be introduced by will present the bi-lingual volume Professor Kevork B Bardakjian and offer dramatic readings in English

Airea D. Matthews, a Cave Canem and Callaloo Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Professor fellow, is a two-time Pushcart Prize nominee and Bardakjian received his first degrees a former Zell Postgraduate Poetry Fellow at the in Armenian studies from the University of Michigan where she earned her University of Yerevan and his D.Phil. MFA in Poetry and was awarded the 2011 from Oxford University, UK. As a Michael R. Gutterman Prize. She also holds a BA in Economics from Senior Lecturer and Armenian the University of Pennsylvania and an MPA from The Ford School of Bibliographer he taught Armenian literature, language, Public Policy. A two-time Women of the World Poetry Slam finalist culture and history at Harvard University and at the Harvard and producer of the one-woman performance collection, Venus Extension from 1974 to 1987. In 1987, he became the first Disrobed, her performance work was adapted and screened at the holder of the newly established Marie Manoogian Chair of Armenian 2014 Cannes Lions Festival. Her short fiction and essay work have Language and Literature at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. appeared in SLAB literary magazine, Vida:Her Kind From 1995 to 2007, he was Director of the Armenian Studies Program and Michigan Quarterly Review. Her poetry and at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Professor Bardakjian has prose have appeared in Callaloo, The Missouri lectured extensively in the US, Europe and the Middle East. He is the Review, The Indiana Review, WSQ, The Baffle, recipient of many prizes, two honorary doctorates, and The Ellis Island Vinyl, Muzzle and elsewhere. She is the associate Medal of Honor. He is a Fellow of the Armenian National Academy of editor for shufpoetry.com, a lecturer at the Universi- Sciences and is currently President of the Society for Armenian Studies. ty of Michigan and is currently at work on her first His latest major publications are: A Reference Guide to Modern Arme- full-length poetry collection. She lives in Detroit nian Literature, 1500 -1920, with an introductory history, Detroit: with her husband and four children. Wayne State University Press, 2000. A Turkish translation of this volume (Modern Ermeni Edebiyatı) appeared in Istanbul in 2013. Jointly with Professor Sergio La Porta, Professor Bardakjian edited a The evening will conclude with a recitation by groundbreaking volume on a hitherto inadequately explored topic: The Airea D. Mathews from her own poetry . Armenian Apocalyptic Tradition: a comparative perspective (Brill, Dr. Raffi Belian, Emcee SVTP series, 2014). Friday, September 12th at 7:30 pm Armenian recitation by Nora Azadian Hagopian World of Rugs Birmingham Showroom 850 S. Old Woodward, Birmingham, MI Wine Reception to follow Open to the Public S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING CC AA LLEENNDDAARR

the Greenway, Boston between Faneuil Hall Marketplace CALIFORNIA and Christopher Columbus Park. Enjoy the music of Mal Barsamian, oud; Leon Janikian, clarinet; Kenny Kalajian, NOVEMBER 15 — AMAA-Haigazian University guitar and Jay Baronian, dumbeg. Game for the Kids at Celebratory Banquet in honor of Dr. Mihran 2:30pm. Bob Lobel, Emcee. Agbabian and George Phillips, Sr., Esq.; Saturday, www.ArmenianHeritagePark.org November 15, Reception 6 p.m., Dinner 7 p.m., Beverly SEPTEMBER 26, 27 — Armenians and Progressive Hills Hotel, $150; Information: Julie Aharonian 818-368- Politics Conference returns to Boston. Keynote speaker 5266; Katia Kermoyan 818-242-5064. will be Noam Chomsky. SEPTEMBER 29 — Party for Our Park! Friends of CONNECTICUT Armenian Heritage Park September Social. Hosted by Abby Lane, 253 Tremont Street, Boston. 7-10 p.m. Shake SEPTEMBER 9 — Southern Connecticut State it Up with Great Friends and Cool Drinks while support - University in New Haven, Conn., will host a screening ing the ongoing care of Armenian Heritage Park on the of the film “Orphans of the Genocide,” followed by a Greenway. For details and tickets, visit question-and-answer session with the film’s writer and www.ArmenianHeritagePark.org. Advance Tickets only. director, Bared Maronian, on Tuesday, at 7 p.m. OCTOBER 4 — YerazArt, a group committed to young “Orphans of the Genocide” is a documentary created by musicians from Armenia, will hold a dinner and benefit the Armenoid Team that brings to life secret documents concert. Belmont. Venue, time and ticket prices to be pertaining to the systematic Turkification campaigns of announced soon. hundreds of thousands of Armenian orphans by the OCTOBER 11 — Armenian Friends of America presents Ottoman Empire. It includes an interview with Maurice Southern Connecticut State University Hye Kef 5, 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Michael’s Function Missak Kelechian, whose findings unveiled the secrets of Hall, 12 Alpha St., Haverhill; tickets, $50, students 21 & an orphanage in Antoura near Beirut, Lebanon, where in New Haven will host a screening of under, $40, proceeds to benefit Armenian churches of 1,000 Armenian Genocide orphans were being turkified. the documentary “Orphans of the Merrimack Valley; individually served mezza platters and For more information, including a film trailer, visit: Genocide” on Tuesday, September 9, pastries; musicians, Mal Barsamian (clarinet), John http://calendar.southernct.edu/index.php?eID=909 at 7 p.m. The screening will be fol - Berberian (oud), Bob Raphalian (violin), Bruce Jigarjian lowed by a discussion session with (guitar), Jason Naroian (dumbag & vocals); tickets, call ILLINOIS director Bared Maronian (above). The either John Arzigian, 603-560-3826; Lucy Sirmaian, 978- film brings to life the plight of the 683-9121; Peter Gulezian, 978-375-1616, or Sandy SEPTEMBER 19 — “Hit The Road India” documentary Armenian children in the Antoura Boroyan, 978-251-8687. No tickets sold at the door. will be screened, Friday, 6:30 p.m., at the Showplace orphanage near Beirut, where the chil - OCTOBER 23 — Najarian Lecture on Human Rights at Icon, 150 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago. The film fol - dren were forced to surrender their Faneuil Hall, Boston. 7:30 p.m. An endowed public pro - lows two friends as they race from Mumbai to Chennai. identity. gram of Armenian Heritage Foundation, sponsor of This 12-day adventure encompasses over 2000 kilome - Armenian Heritage Park on Greenway. Details forthcom - ters. This film recounts the challenges that the team ing. www.ArmenianHeritagPark.org faced racing through this foreign land. Monsoons, police OCTOBER 25 – Ararat Center Boston Harbor Cruise on detentions, vehicle crashes and the notorious Indian traf - the Odyssey, Boston, Rowe’s Whar f. Embarkation 7 fic are part of this epic adventure. Friday, at 8 p.m. at St. James Cultural Center, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown. Please reserve your tickets now p.m. Hors d’oeuvres, dinner, live Kef, premium compli - mentary bar. Adults 21 and over - $175; Under 21 - MASSACHUSETTS and save. $40 if reserved by 9/1; otherwise, $45. Call 617-852-1816 or 508-397-7977 ASAP. First come, first $100; For more information contact Pam at 617-645- 2781 or [email protected]. SEPTEMBER 7 — Picnic Festival, sponsored by St. served. Tables of 10 recommended. For more details and OCTOBER 26, 2014 – Fr. Vasken Kouzouian’s 20-Year Gregory Armenian Church of Merrimack Valley, 158 flyer, visit www.sayatnova.com. Pastoral Journey — Join us as we celebrate the 20th Main St., North Andover, featuring musicians Leon SEPTEMBER 14 — Trinity Family Festival, 12-5 p.m., Holy Anniversary of our Pastor’s Ordination, immediately fol - Janikian, Jason Naroian, Johnny Berberian and John Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. lowing church services, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Arzigian; appearance by Siroun Dance Ensemble of Delicious Armenian food; Armenian music by the Greg Greater Boston, Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Central Mass.; 12:30-5:30 p.m., church grounds; shish, Krikorian Ensemble featuring Greg Krikorian, oud & Hall, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. Details to follow. losh & chicken kebab dinners, veggie plates, Armenian vocals, Leon Janikian, clarinet, George Righellis, guitar & NOVEMBER 8 — Armenia Tree Project’s 20th pastries; family games and activities. vocals, Michael Sabounjian, keyboard & vocals, Charlie Anniversary Celebration. Reception and dinner at the SEPTEMBER 8 — St. James Men’s Club, Monday, fea- Dermenjian, dumbeg and Steve Surabian, tambourine; Grand Atrium of the John Joseph Moakley United States turing speaker Dr. Nancy Ann Simonian, CEO, Syros fun games and activities for children; Blessing of Madagh Courthouse overlooking the Boston Harbor. Reserve the Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Topic: “Building Great Biotech at 4 pm, raffle drawing and more. For further informa - date, additional details to follow. For information about Companies.” Dinner features Losh Kebab and Kheyma tion, contact the church office, 617.354.0632 or email ATP’s programs, visit www.ArmeniaTree.org Dinner, Social Hour (mezza) 6:15 p.m. Dinner 7 p.m. $14 [email protected]. NOVEMBER 15 — The 39th Annual Luncheon/Auction per person, St. James Armenian Church, Charles SEPTEMBER 20 — Celebration of the New Independent of the Armenian Women’s Welfare Association will Mosesian Cultural & Youth Center - Keljik Hall, 465 Mt. Republic by the Lowell “Aharonian” Gomideh, 6 p.m., be held at the Burlington Marriott Hotel. Funds raised will Auburn St., Watertown. Ladies welcome. ARS Community Center, 142 Liberty St., Lowell. Dinner, support programs at the Armenian Nursing and SEPTEMBER 12 — COMEDY NIGHT - An invitation program and entertainment by The Dynamic Duo featur - Rehabilitation Center in Jamaica Plain, Mass and to attend and enjoy a fantastic night of fun, laugh - ing Greg Krikorian on oud & vocals and Michael Hanganak NGO Health Clinic in Stepanakert, Karabagh, ter, food, music and dancing! Sayat Nova Dance Sabounjian on keyboard & vocals. “Why Western T for senior women in need. For more information, call Company of Boston presents theU world-renowned Armenia?” a visual presentation by Historian George O Karen Hovsepian at 617-898-8619. Aghjayan following his recent 10-day pilgrimage to that Armenian comedian/pianist, Kev Orkian, direct from the D DECEMBER 14 — Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra, L region. Admission, $20 adults, $10 students. UK and for the first time in Boston. Finalist in “Britain’s O Christmas Holiday Concert, 7 p.m., Holy Trinity GSot Talent” and having performed for Britain’s royal fam - SEPTEMBER 21 —Sunday Afternoon at the Park for Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 Brattle St., ily, he is now ready to wow his audience in Boston. Families & Friends! 2-4 p.m. Armenian Heritage Park on Cambridge. Save the date; details to follow.

ATTLEBORO, Mass. — More than 30 Society for Armenian Studies Publishes Journal of years ago, Abraham Megerdichian cre - ated metal miniatures of everyday The Society for Armenian Studies objects. His pieces are on exhibition JOURNAL, from page 11 through summer 2014 at the Attleboro dating to the year 1450 found in the Armenian Monastery of St. James, Jerusalem; Nader Area Industrial Museum, 42 Union St. Shah’s relations with the Armenians of Iran; a report on the political lobbying efforts behind Museum hours are Thursdays and Friday, the erection of two statues to Heydar Aliyev and the Khojaly massacres in Mexico City; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. a reflection on Raphael Lemkin’s discourse on the Armenian Genocide. The three review to 3 p.m. The closing reception with a essays contained in this volume address recent works on the region of Artsakh, the Azeri special presentation will take place on appropriation of George Bournoutian’s work for political purposes, and the many publica - Saturday, October 4, 2 to 4 p.m. For tions issued in coordination with the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Armenian more information, visit the musem’s printing. The JSAS is available for purchase by contacting the Society for Armenian Studies website at industrialmuseum.com/. Secretariat by telephone at 559-278-2669 or by email at [email protected]. Back issues Photo is the Drop Leaf Desk, from 1975. of the JSAS are also available for purchase. 14 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror In Search of Community Priorities

first Armenian school in America, to the amazement of the major - Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian ity of the Armenians. Many organizations followed suit and today an entire network of schools is in operation from coast to coast. Most of the graduates have come to prove that in terms of pro - “The true test of civilization is not the census, nor the size of fessional success, they do not lag behind the graduates of public the cities, nor the crops — no, but the kind of man the country or private institutions, despite the scarcity of educational turns out.” resources in their respective schools. EstablEisshteadbl1is9h3e2 d 1932 The quote above is from Ralph Waldo Emerson, who issued the Most of the Armenian schools have fallen on hard times. An ADALnP AuDblLic Patuiobnlication challenge to all leaders in charge of running countries or organi - Enrollments at some schools are declining and in some cases, the zations or guiding communities. quality of the education is being compromised because of a lack Almost a century after being uprooted from our homeland, have of funds. One of those schools is the Tekeyan Cultural we ever asked what kind of man or woman our community would Association’s Arshag Dickranian School in Hollywood, Calif., EDITOR turn out? Maybe the question has weighed heavily on the minds which this September began its 34th academic year. Alin K. Gregorian of some leaders but it does not seem that it has bothered us col - The Dickranian School has played a pivotal role in integrating lectively, as we are paddling down the stream without concern generations of immigrant Armenians who have become successful ASSISTANT EDITOR about our destination. citizens of the US. The school still plays an essential role in the Aram Arkun To say the least, our community has its priorities backwards, yet growing community on the West Coast. ART DIRECTOR we still hope for a positive outcome. The eponymous late benefactor and his family have generously Marc Mgrditchian It was quite appropriate for the first Armenian settlers in provided substantial funding. However, as the school’s enrollment America to build churches; the churches have played their role in continues to grow, more resources will be needed to meet basic preserving our faith and also our identity. However, ironically, the needs. focus on church building has accelerated, even as the number of Kirk Kerkorian’s Dream Fund today remains the major bene - potential parishioners has dwindled. We continue building church - factor of Armenian schools in California. Kerkorian, a man who SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: es that have empty pews on Sundays, until we find another role did not have the benefit of attending an Armenian school, believes Edmond Azadian for our houses of worship. Most have already become centers of in the role of that institution in preserving our heritage. civic activities, unrelated to the faith of the worshipers. The same conviction has driven other benefactors to contribute CONTRIBUTORS: The Armenian Church in America has mostly abandoned its tra - Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiune to Armenian schools because they know they have a stake in Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Diana ditional responsibility of running schools, except for the Prelacy, building and preserving Armenian identity. Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, in both California and Massachusetts. (The Armenian Catholic The Dickranian School is owned and operated by the Tekeyan Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, Church still follows the Catholic church’s tradition of founding Cultural Association. Since its founding, dedicated cadres of edu - Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian schools, and in the US, it has schools in Massachusetts, cational leaders and innovators have been running it. Pennsylvania and California.) As times get tough, the community has to be sensitized about CORRESPONDENTS: The Armenian day school movement began fairly recently in the needs and challenges of the school. In the first place, the mobi - Armenia - Hagop Avedikian America and it has already lost steam for a variety of reasons; lization of Tekeyan members and friends will be required to set the Boston - Nancy Kalajian some of the factors affecting the schools are beyond the reach of pace for the rest of the community to help the school survive. Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach the community, whereas others can be helped. The important As the demographic profile of the community undergoes changes question is where to draw the line — to face the manageable fac - and as educational tools and methods become more sophisticated Contributing Photographers: tors intelligently and then claim that we did our best to keep the and expensive, they pose new challenges for the leaders who believe Jacob Demirdjian and Jirair Hovsepian Armenian schools in operation, leaving the rest to the course of in Armenian education. Instead of giving up, they look to new alter - society’s irreversible currents. natives. One such alternative is to have more community involve - It will be foolhardy to believe that to run an Armenian school in ment in the public schools, where substantial numbers of Armenian The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published a globalized society is an easy task. But by the same token, to sur - students are enrolled. That can keep in place the instruction of the weekly, except two weeks in July and the first render responsibility because the challenges are great is not a Armenian language at the state’s expense. week of the year, by: choice, either. The other alternative is to explore the feasibility of charter Baikar Association, Inc. The Armenian language is the fundamental ingredient of our schools. The Turks have been ahead of the Armenians by taking 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 identity. Some highly-motivated individuals will resort to virtual advantage of the possibilities in American educational system and Telephone: 617-924-4420 books or virtual colleges to learn the language, but the rest need they have already a network of charter schools founded by FAX: 617-924-2887 to have access to Armenian schools, where language, history and Fatullah Gulen in many states. Although they have abused the sys - www.mir rorspectator.com culture are taught, but above all, provide an atmosphere that can tem and many Gulenist charter schools are under investigation in E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com awaken and strengthen Armenian consciousness. California, Illinois, and Arizona and in other states, making it hard - In that sense, there is no alternative to the Armenian school; er for other groups to obtain licensing for new charter schools. For advertising: [email protected] the alternative is only self-delusion. One exemplary school seems to be the Ararat Charter School in To start an Armenian day school can only be done through the Valley and others may be on the drawing board. It is embar - vision. No matter how much an Armenian school spends on the rassing to admit that we need to learn from the Turks how to use material aspects of education, it will not match nor surpass private the system to our advantage. or public schools in the same neighborhood. The Armenian com - When we soberly prioritize our community needs, we see that SUBSCRIPTION RATES : munity in the US is affluent enough to meet the challenges, if it the school and language remain at the top of the list, but not at learns to set its priorities in the right order. the expense of dropping other priorities, which have their essen - One of those visionaries was Gabriel Injejikian who opened the tial role in consolidating the Armenian identity. U.S.A. $80 a year

Canada $125 a year

Other Countries $190 a year Homecoming Part Three: Bringing Hidden Armenians Home © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA entire bodies... Then they were off to a gov - “background.” Some were told as little kids, and additional mailing offices. By Raffi Bedrosyan ernment camping facility in Tsakhgadzor for a when other kids shouted at them as few days, where they had a chance to rest after “Armenian” in the street or at school as a ISSN 0004-234X a whirlwind tour of Armenia, as well as learn swear word, without knowing the meaning of The historic first trip of the Diyarbakir hid - more Armenian lessons, songs and dances. the word. As they rushed home crying that den Armenians to Armenia is now over and it They all enjoyed the camp, except for the other kids swore at them, their parents had to is time for us to assess the impact, conse - morning gym classes and the “beds from the explain that Armenian is not a swear word, but POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The quences and next steps. Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn Stalin era”... their own identity. Some hidden Armenians St., Watertown, MA 02472 At the end of the first week, we organized a As they drive back home to Diyarbakir to tried hard to appear as devout Moslems; one Other than the editorial, views and opinions Dikranagerd Night at a beautiful location resume their lives, perhaps a bit apprehensive even became Imam, a Moslem religious leader, expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily called HyeLandz Eco Village in the village of about their emerging new identities, I would while still keeping his hidden identity. reflect the policies of the publisher. Keghatir. We invited government officials, aca - like to share some of the life stories of these no However, most hidden Armenians tried to demicians and researchers following our more hidden Armenians. There is enough ensure that their children married into other group, as well as some of the new-found rela - material for a book or a movie for each of the hidden Armenian families, even the Imam giv - tives of the Diyarbakir hidden Armenians 50 members of the group. Through interviews ing his daughter to another Islamicized whose ancestors had managed to move to by media or Ministry of Diaspora officials, Armenian boy, raising questions among his Armenia after 1915. The re-union of the Armenians of Armenia have started finding Moslem followers. No matter how much these Copying for other than personal use or Christian Armenian relatives with the out about them. The most interesting respons - people tried to hide their Armenian roots, it internal reference is prohibited without Islamicized Armenians of Diyarbakir was es were to the question of when they realized seems that the neighbors or the government express permission of the copyright owner. Address requests for reprints or another special moment. Needless to say, the they had Armenian roots. Some of them found officials knew about their origins. During dis - back issues to: dancing and singing kept the whole village out they were Armenian when they were agreements between business people, shop - awake until the early hours of the morning. In already adults, at the deathbed of their parents keepers, neighboring women or kids at school, Baikar Association, Inc. the last few days the group visited Lake Sevan. or grandparents. Some discovered when they the insults of “gavur/infidel” or “devil rooted 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Moslem or Christian, they all reinforced their were in compulsory military service in the Armenian” easily came out, no matter how “Armenianness’ by dipping into the holy Turkish Army, when their commanders told devout Moslems they appeared to be. One waters of Sevan, some their toes, some their them they can’t be trusted because of their continued on next page S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

Government of Azerbaijan and its diplomats in the US Consul claims he scored a major victory because the final Elman Abdullayev, spokesman of Azerbaijan’s Foreign vote was 24-0 in favor of Artsakh, and not 40-0, as some Ministry, dismissed the Artsakh resolution, calling it “noth - Senators were either absent or abstained! ing more than a piece of paper.” The Consul General of Conveniently, the Consul General forgets to mention his Azerbaijan in Los Angeles blasted the local Armenian com - biggest supporters in opposing the Artsakh bill: the pow - My Turn munity, the State of California and AJR 32. To justify his erful lobbying firms that Azerbaijan has hired in failure to block the resolution, he alleged that California Washington and Los Angeles, at great expense. One of By Harut Sassounian Senators received “massive financial contributions for their these firms, JCI Worldwide, led by Seth Jacobson, sent to election campaigns” from the “Armenian lobby.” all 40 California Senators a letter signed by Rabbi Dov Forgetting that he represents one of the most autocratic Newman, Chabad of Beverlywood; Rabbi Mendy Cohen, Azerbaijan Calls California regimes in the world, the Consul General of Azerbaijan had Chabad of Sacramento; and Rabbi Yonah Bookstein, Pico Resolution On Artsakh a Mere the audacity to lecture US officials on the “serious flaw in Shul. The three Rabbis told the Senators that they “strong - America’s political system that needs an urgent fixing.” ly oppose AJR 32…. Azerbaijan is an important ally to Israel Piece of Paper Before making such baseless accusations, the Azeri and Jewish people. Jews live free and protected in Consul General should have searched the Internet to see Azerbaijan for thousands of years…. As Rabbis and leaders Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry harshly condemned the how much money, if any, the 24 Senators who voted for the of Jewish communities across California, we stand in soli - California Legislature last week after the State Senate Artsakh resolution had received from Armenian-Americans. darity with our brothers and sisters in Azerbaijan and adopted resolution AJR 32 that “encourages and supports Campaign contributions are a public record in the United demand that you vote No on AJR 32.” These Rabbis clear - the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic’s continuing efforts to States, unlike Azerbaijan where visiting politicians are ly embarrassed themselves by sending such a ridiculous let - develop as a free and independent nation” and “urges the wined and dined and sent home with stacks of cash, cans ter, since they failed to convince a single Senator to vote President and Congress of the United States to support the of caviar, and gold ingots! against the Artsakh resolution. Furthermore, their circu - self-determination and democratic independence of the The Consul General also credited the passage of AJR to lated letter was a big waste of Azerbaijan’s petrodollars, as Nagorno-Karabakh Republic.” The resolution also acknowl - the “inordinate amount of effort by the Armenian lobby in JCI’s expensive lobbying proved to be worthless. edged that Karabagh (Artsakh) “has historically been California, where around one million Armenians reside.” One wonders if President Aliyev is aware that Armenian territory… and yet was illegally severed from The one million number is yet another exaggeration by the Azerbaijan’s Consulate in Los Angeles and Embassy in Armenia by the Soviet Union in 1921 and placed under the Azeri diplomat who went on to falsely claim that the Washington are wasting millions of dollars on useless lob - newly created Soviet Azerbaijani administration.” Armenian “ethnic lobby” resorted to “threats, blackmail bying firms. Do the citizens of Azerbaijan, who mostly live Both Houses of the California Legislature overwhelm - and other means” against California Senators. in abject poverty, know that their leaders are wasting ingly supported the Artsakh resolution — the State Senate The Azeri Consul General then bragged about his efforts their country’s resources on political activities overseas by a vote of 24-0 on August 27, and the State Assembly against AJR 32, claiming that he and his Consulate under - just to counter a “piece of paper”? Indeed, if the with a vote of 72-1 on May 8. Thus, California joins took a number of “serious measures,” including “letters of California Senate resolution was a meaningless “piece of Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island in pass - protest to all Senators [and] holding numerous meetings paper,” as the Azeri foreign ministry official claims, why ing such pro-Artsakh resolutions. with them….” Despite his frantic activities, not a single did Azerbaijan spend so much time, effort and money try - The actions of the California Legislature infuriated the Senator voted against the Artsakh bill! Incredibly, the ing to block its passage?

Homecoming Part Three: Bringing Hidden Armenians Home from previous page ilar to our two members who got baptized in believe it is shortsightedness and totally ment also to stop the denial and deal with the tragicomic incident was the story of three Echmiadzin (see previous article), then this unrealistic to have such requirements for hid - consequences. One of the key components Moslem Kurdish boys ab out 8-9 years old, one should be sufficient proof to apply for den Armenians living in Van or Dersim, sur - toward this goal will be to re-create an of them being from a hidden Armenian fami - Armenian citizenship. The proposal was rounded by Moslem Turks/Kurds, working in Armenian presence within Turkey. The con - ly but unaware of his roots at the time. They received favorably and will now be discussed government jobs. The other argument I find tinuing dialogue of Armenian and Turkish stole some of those famous Diyarbakir water - in cabinet, hopefully leading to approval by incomprehensible is that the emergence of civil societies and opinion makers, combined melons from the orchard of a hidden the government. hidden Armenians in large numbers lessens with the emergence of hidden Armenians Armenian Islamicized man. The man caught Thirdly, learning the Armenian language, the claims of the 1915 genocide, and that it within Turkey are essential toward eliminat - the three little thieves, but let go the two real history and culture is essential to re-discover - is tantamount to strengthening Turkish cases ing the past and present barriers. Moslem Kurdish boys and gave a good beat - ing Armenian roots. The Virtual University of denial. I have even received comments that I will conclude this series of articles with a ing to the hidden Armenian boy. I leave it to run by AGBU in Yerevan is offering online Turks will now use the hidden Armenians as tribute to the courage and determination of the psychologists to ponder the reasons for courses in these subjects. The administrators proof that genocide never happened, and our hidden Armenians, and a few questions this man’s actions. Years later, this hidden have now agreed to offer these courses for therefore, I should stick to engineering or for you to ponder. How will they be received Armenian boy finds out his real identity and free to all applicants from Turkey. This will music, instead of getting involved in these back in Turkey? How will their families, still thinks about this incident. have a huge impact on the hidden Armenians issues...These comments can be dismissed, neighbors, employers, employees react to Another interesting fact that came out during of Turkey wherever they are, in Dersim, Van, were it not for the fact that they come from their new identity? Just consider Stepan’s the interviews was the special place of Yerevan Mush or Diyarbakir, as they can start learn - some individuals in undeservedly responsible case, the newly baptized man who works as a Radio in all Kurdish families’ lives, including ing on their own, in their own homes, even in positions in Diaspora and in Istanbul. teacher at a government school. All his stu - our hidden Armenians group. As Kurdish lan - the absence of organized language courses. Regardless, we will keep on expanding our dents are Moslems. He told me he knows guage was banned and even possessing a Although this trip is the start of a new real - efforts in Diyarbakir and other regions of there are several kids in his class who come Kurdish music tape was a punishable crime in ity within the Armenian world and received Turkey, continuously pushing the envelope from hidden Armenian Islamicized families, Turkey for several decades, all Kurds tuned in with great enthusiasm by both government on rules and regulations in order to facilitate but he doesn’t know if the kids know about to Yerevan Radio which broadcast Kurdish officials and public in Armenia, I must admit the “coming out” of our hidden Armenian their roots. How will the Moslem kids (or news and music a couple of hours each day. The that not everyone is on board. There are still brothers and sisters, the grandchildren of the their parents) react to him coming out? How group members all remembered how, when quite a few Armenians disapproving of the “living” victims of the genocide. There is a will the hidden Armenian kids (or their par - they were growing up, everyone would stop time and effort in bringing out the hidden Turkish term for these hapless survivors — ents) react? How will his own kids react? We work at home or at shops to gather around the Armenians. Perhaps it is untimely to air our “kilic artigi,” meaning “remnants of the are in uncharted waters, but sooner or later, radio to hear Yerevan Radio Kurdish news... dirty laundry, but I believe the arguments sword.” The attempted murder of a nation truth and justice will prevail. I am confident the groundbreaking nature put forth by these disapproving Armenians and the total confiscation of its wealth took of this historic first trip will open the road for must be discussed, as some of these people place within Turkey, but as we approach the (Raffi Bedrosyan is a civil engineer and con - other hidden Armenians to follow, but I hold important posts within the Armenian centennial of these problems, we must realize cert pianist, living in Toronto, Canada. He has would like to report on three additional suc - church and political organizations in that the resolution of these problems will donated concert and CD proceedings to infra - cessful outcomes resulting from this trip. Diaspora and in Istanbul. These disapprovers also take place within Turkey. No matter how structure projects in Armenia and Karabagh, Firstly, two university graduates in our argue that Moslem Armenians are not really many events we organize in the diaspora or in which he has also participated as an engi - group who wanted to further their graduate Armenian, until they convert to Christianity Armenia, no matter how many third-country neer. He helped organize the reconstruction of studies in Armenia will be able to fulfill their by getting baptized; but then, they go on parliaments and politicians appear to sym - the Surp Giragos Diyarbakir/Dikranagerd dreams. In discussion with the Armenian gov - arguing that they cannot get baptized unless pathize with our cause, at the end of the day, Church and the first Armenian reclaim of ernment officials, we reached agreement that they show proof and documents of Armenian the only change will come from within church properties in Anatolia after 1915. He they will be able to attend Armenian univer - origins, until they speak fluent Armenian and Turkey when the peoples of Turkey realize gave the first piano concert in the Surp sities with free tuition, master the Armenian “pass tests of being a good Armenian’. I the truth about 1915 and force their govern - Giragos Church since 1915.) language for a year and then continue into their desired field of study. Secondly, some of the group members inquired about obtaining Armenian citizen - Notice to Contributors daytime telephone number. ship, perhaps toward future plans of retire - — Deadline for submission of all articles and advertising is 12 noon on ment in Armenia. As per the existing citizen - The welcomes articles, commentaries and Monday of the week of publication. Armenian Mirror-Spectator ship requirements, Armenian government community news from our readers. In order to assure the accurate and time - — Photos will be published without charge at the discretion of the editors and demands documents and proof of Armenian ly publication of articles submitted, please note the following policies: art director. Photos will be returned only if a self-addressed and stamped ethnic origin but of course no such docu - — All articles submitted should be typed, double (or triple) spaced and print - envelope is included. ments exist among our hidden Armenians, ed in a type size large enough to be clearly legible (10 point or larger). — The will publish only one article about an upcoming organizational M-S except their memories from their parents and Submissions that do not conform to these specifications will be assigned low - event. For major special events, exceptions may be made only by special grandparents. In discussion with the govern - est priority. arrangement with the editors. ment officials, I proposed the possibility of a — Articles sent by fax are acceptable, and e-mail submissions are encour - — Telephone numbers, ticket prices and other details (at the discretion of the baptism document as proof of Armenian ori - aged. editors) will not be included in press releases, but should be reserved for cal - gin. I suggested that if a hidden Armenian — All submissions should include the name of a contact person and a endar listings and advertisements. comes out and gets baptized in Armenia, sim - 16 S ATURDAY , S EPTEMBER 6, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

California Senate Hermes Armenian Alphabet Scarf Raises Funds for Charity Recognizes Karabagh Republic SCARF, from page 1 The proceeds from CALIFORNIA, from page 1 the sale of this exclu - more we can expect such resolutions, paving the sive, limited edition way for the international recognition of the creation, will go Nagorno-Karabagh Republic,” according to RIA toward humanitarian Novosti. and cultural activities Political scientist Levon Melik-Shahnazaryan of SFPA in Armenia. said that the recognition of the Nagorno Janik Manissian, Karabagh Republic by the State of California can president of SFPA, have serious economic and political conse - warmly thanked quences, if the foreign diplomacies of the Hermès and designer Republic of Armenia and the Nagorno Karabagh Karen Petrossian for Republic provide practical steps. As reports the realization of this “Armenpress”, the political scientist stated about unique artistic work this at the course of the press conference held on that will contribute to September 3. “support an ever more Among other things, Melik-Shahnazaryan under - urgent and essential scored: “The US is a federation of states and each humanitarian action.” state has its own laws. Karabagh has a right to open Many personalities its representation in California and respectively and representatives of California can have its representation in Stepanakert. the French press attended the presenta - Karabagh can also export its good with the ‘Made in Pierre-Alexis Dumas, artistic director of Hermès, presented to the Petrossian restaurant the new square Hermès silk ,on Karabagh’ country of origin label.” tion, including the topic of the Armenian alphabet Lettres de Erevan. Previously it was reported that the California Armenia’s Ambassador State Senate approved a measure recognizing to France Vigen the independence and self-determination of the Tchitetchian, NKR rep - Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. resentative Hovhannes Wednesday’s vote on AJR32 also called for Guevorguian Bishop U.S. recognition of the Republic of Nagorno Norvan Zakarian, Karabagh, marking a major milestone in the Valerie Toranian, man - growing American movement supporting the aging editor of Elle national and democratic aspirations of the citi - magazine, etc. zens of this independent and historically SFPA was founded Armenian country. in April 1990, in the The historic vote specifically voiced encour - wake of the devastat - agement for Artsakh’s continuing efforts to ing 1988 quake in develop as a free and independent nation, and Armenia. formally called upon the President and Congress following the earth - of the United States to support the self-determi - quake that befell nation and democratic independence of the Armenia December 7, Details of the scarf Nagorno-Karabagh Republic. 1988.