JUNE 18, 2011 MirTHE rARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXI, NO. 49, Issue 4193 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Mirror-Spectator Progress in Karabagh Talks Annual Vacation WATERTOWN — The Armenian Mirror-Spectator will close for a two-week break in July, as part of its YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Foreign Minister traditional summer holiday. Eduard Nalbandian on Tuesday confirmed The last issue before the break will be that of July that Armenia and Azerbaijan could soon 2; the first issue back will be that of July 23. reach a framework agreement on Nagorno- Press releases on events between July 2 and 23 Karabagh but cautioned that it would have should be submitted as early as possible for inclu - to be approved by the disputed territory’s sion in issues prior to the break. ethnic Armenian leadership. The office will reopen on July 18. Nalbandian stood by statements made by official Yerevan and Baku on his weekend Aivazovsky Seascape talks in Moscow with his Azerbaijani coun - terpart, Elmar Mammadyarov. Returned to Armenia Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hosted the talks in preparation for the next MOSCOW (Moscow Times) — A painting by the Armenian-Azerbaijani summit due to be held 19th-century Russian-Armenian painter Ivan in the Russian city of Kazan later this month. Aivazovsky is back in Armenia, 21 years after being “You know that the [Armenian] Foreign stolen. It is now part of the collection of the Ministry circulated a statement on the tri - National Gallery in Yerevan. lateral ministerial meeting in Moscow say - A Russian senator of Armenian descent, Oganes ing that the parties managed to bring their Oganian, withdrew it from a Moscow auction and positions closer to each other on a number sent it to Yerevan after being informed it was of pivotal issues,” Nalbandian told journal - stolen. ists. “If this positive trend is maintained at Kazan, then we will be able to register pos - Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian RI Assembly Passes itive progress.” The Armenian and Azerbaijani presidents Genocide Education Bill will meet in Kazan one month after the Bildt, Nalbandian backed these demands. The Karabagh conflict was on the agen - United States, Russia and France jointly “It will be impossible to switch to the sec - da of Nalbandian’s meeting with Bildt. The PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Boston Globe) — The Rhode urged them to finalize the “basic princi - ond phase [of the peace process] if Armenian Foreign Ministry said the Island General Assembly has passed a bill directing ples” of the conflict’s resolution without Karabagh doesn’t agree to the basic princi - Swedish minister was briefed on recent the state Department of Education to help schools “further delay.” Diplomats from the three ples,” he said. “The second phase would see developments in the Armenian-Azerbaijani teach students about genocide. mediating powers discussed the matter dur - the elaboration of a [comprehensive] peace negotiating process. Under the legislation, the state Education ing their recent tour of the conflict zone. accord, and Nagorno-Karabagh must defi - Bildt, who arrived in Yerevan from Baku, Department would be required to post on its web - Bako Sahakian, the president of the unrec - nitely take part in it.” expressed hope that the conflicting parties site curricular materials dealing with genocides, ognized Nagorno-Karabagh Republic, told “For us, the cornerstone of a peaceful set - will achieve a breakthrough “in the not-too- including the Holocaust and those in Armenia, them in Stepanakert on June 8 that the tlement is that the people of Nagorno- distant future.” “There is no alternative to a Cambodia, Darfur, Iraq and Rwanda. basic principles can not be put into practice Karabagh must decide their fate,” he added. peaceful resolution,” he said. “That requires The bill is sponsored by state Rep. Anastasia P. without being endorsed by the Karabagh Azerbaijan has refused to directly negoti - a sense of compromise on both sides Williams of Providence and state Sen. Joshua Miller Armenians. Sahakian also insisted on their ate with the Nagorno-Karabagh since the because a movement forward will require of Warwick. direct participation in further peace talks. late 1990s, saying that the territory is occu - compromises.” The General Assembly in 2000 passed a bill Speaking at a joint news conference with pied by Armenia and has no legitimate gov - “But the ultimate prize is peace and that requiring state education officials to develop a cur - Sweden’s visiting Foreign Minister Carl ernment. is, of course, of immense importance for riculum on genocide and human rights issues. both countries and for the possibilities of moving the region forward,” he added Mouratian Heads Anti- before holding a separate meeting with President Serge Sargisian. Bias Group in Arg. BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Argentina’s President Cristina Fernandez de Georgian-Armenian Kirchner has appointed Pedro Mouratian as the head of the National Institute against Church Disputes Discrimination, Xenophobia and Racism (INADI) for a term of 180 days, following the resignation of Closer to Resolution INADI President Claudio Morgado and Vice President María Rachid. TBILISI (RFE/RL) — The Armenian Mouratian is an expert in combating discrimina - Apostolic Church said over the weekend tion, xenophobia and racism. He took part in the that its supreme head, Catholicos Karekin development of UN Human Rights Committee’s II, reached agreements with Georgia’s polit - concept on struggle against discrimination. ical and spiritual leaders that will help to resolve its long-running disputes with the Georgian Orthodox Church. Karekin met with Georgian President INSI DE Mikheil Saakashvili and Catholicos- Catholicos of All Armenians in Javakhk Patriarch Ilia II at the start of a weeklong visit to Georgia on Friday. The two pontiffs held a more detailed discussion in the pres - Catholicos Visits Javakhk ence of high-ranking Armenian and Mystery Georgian clerics on Saturday. First Visit to Region by Head of Armenian see DISPUTE, page 4 Man Church in Century page 14 AKHALTSKHA (President news service) — Earlier this week, Catholicos Karekin II started off on his visit to the region of Javakhk, Georgia. It was the first time that a head of the Armenian Apostolic Church set foot in the Armenian-populated area in over 100 years. Accompanied by Ilia II, Catholicos patriarch of All Georgia, Karekin II was INDEX feted in the Georgian town of Borzhom, famed for its mineral waters. The two Armenia ...... 2 were greeted by local church and government officials. Arts and Living ...... 13 From there, the Armenian Church delegation made its way to the town of Calendar ...... 17 Akhaltskha where they were received by Lasha Jkadvan, regional governor of Community News...... 5 Samtskhe-Javakhki, and Armenian Church Locum Tenens for Javakhk, Fr. Editorial ...... 18 From left, Catholicos of All Armenians International ...... 3, 4 Babken Salbyan. Karekin II, Georgian President Mikheil see JAVAKHK, page 3 Saakashvili and Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II 2 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia ATP Celebrates World Environment Day & International Children’s Day at Mirak Family Reforestation Nursery Armenian Lecturers to YEREVAN — Armenia Tree Project fun dancing to traditional live (ATP) celebrated World Environment music in the fresh mountain Train in US Day and International Children’s Day air. The boys were impressed on June 1 at the John and Artemis with ATP’s agricultural equip - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The International Mirak Nursery in Margahovit Village. ment such as tractors and an American Council’s Organization will conduct a The event was attended by the staff all-terrain motorcycle, while contest, the winners of which will train in the US from ATP’s Yerevan Office and the the girls enjoyed gathering as lecturers. It is sponsored by the US government, Mirak Reforestation Nursery, along field flowers.” on behalf of the Educational and Cultural Affairs with their families. ATP’s Environmental Department of the US Department of State. “The children made friends instantly Education staff presented Nane Abrahamian, whose office is organizing the and started playing together,” explained notebooks and the children contest, said the goal of the program is to provide ATP Community Development Specialist drew beautiful pictures of an opportunity to the lecturers of a number of uni- Vardan Melikyan. “The nursery workers nature and trees which now versities of Armenia, CIS and Eastern Europe to invited musicians from the village to take decorate the inside of the pass training in humanitarian and public sciences. part in our gathering and the kids had small building at the nursery. The participants of the program will closely coop- After an outdoor lunch, ATP erate with the American partners. While staying in specialists showed the chil - the US, the participants will attend conferences dren how to plant trees and and give lectures. Abrahamian said during the pro- US Official Briefed on they planted five symbolic gram about 51 lecturers have already been trained. evergreens at the nursery. The deadline for applications is June 20. The Armenian Unrest Probe “Everyone, especially the studies will launch in January 2012 and will last children, had a great time five months. YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Prosecutor- and ATP hopes to organize General Aghvan Hovsepian and other similar events with our stake - Armenian law-enforcement officials on Tribute Paid to Late holders in the future,” con - Armenia Tree Project staff and their families cele - Monday briefed a visiting senior US cluded Melikyan. brated World Environment Day and International Premier Margarian State Department official on their On June 1, activities are Children’s Day at the John and Artemis Mirak renewed investigation into the 2008 organized for children Nursery in Margahovit Village YEREVAN (Presidential News Service) — Earlier post-election unrest. including outings with fam - this week, President Serge Sargisian, accompanied Armenia’s Office of the Prosecutor- ilies. The day is dedicated to by the leadership of the country, visited the General said Thomas Melia, the US deputy children worldwide and is often Environment Programme describes it Komitas Pantheon and paid tribute to the memory assistant secretary of state for democracy marked with speeches on children’s as a day for people from all walks of life of the late Prime Minister Andranik Margarian, on and human rights, inquired about the con - rights and well-being. to come together to ensure a cleaner, the occasion of his 60th birthday. troversial probe and received detailed infor - World Environment Day is a widely- greener, and brighter outlook for them - Sargisian attended the event at the Alexander mation about it. It said Melia was specifi - celebrated global day for environmental selves and future generations, and this Spendiarian National Academic Opera and Ballet cally interested in the execution of a recent action held on June 5. The UN year’s theme was “Forests: Nature at Theater dedicated to Margarian. order issued by President Serge Sargisian Your Service.” to investigators. Responding to opposition demands, Sports Tournament for Sargisian told Special Investigative Service (SIS), a law-enforcement body Scholar Bojolian Completes Disabled in Gumri subordinate to prosecutors, to investi - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — A decision was made to gate the March 2008 clashes in Yerevan hold the 2012 Armenian Disabled Sports Festival in “a more meticulous” way. Sargisian 10-Year Term for Treason outside Yerevan, in Gumri, according to Hakob said investigators should specifically try Abrahamian, chairman of the Armenian Para- to identify those responsible for the YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Murad the people who rose up,” he added. Olympic Committee and the Phoenix club of dis- deaths of eight opposition protesters and Bojolian, an Armenian scholar and for - The HAK has regarded Bojolian as a abled sportsmen. two police personnel. mer diplomat, was released from prison political prisoner throughout its two-year Abrahamian said that the decision to move the According to a statement issued by his on Friday, June 10, after completing a existence. Its top leader, former tournament out of Yerevan was made in part so office, Hovsepian told Melia that they 10-year sentence on charges of spying President Levon Ter-Petrosian, used that more people in the rural areas would have have still not succeeded in doing that for Turkey, which he strongly denies. Bojolian as an adviser and Turkish-lan - access to it. because of “objective obstacles.” “The Bojolian, 60, was arrested and guage interpreter, during his 1991-1998 events took place at night and involved charged with passing “military, eco - tenure. The latter was one of Armenia’s thousands of people in a residential area nomic and political information” on to few experts on Turkish affairs then. Ministry Advisor Viewing covering several thousand square Turkish intelligence in January 2002. In a long speech at his 2002 trial, meters,” he was quoted as saying. He was tried and convicted of high trea - Bojolian said that he played a key role Porn at Meeting Quits Hovsepian also said that the investiga - son less than a year later. in establishing direct communication YEREVAN (news.am) — An advisor to the Armenian tors, who continue to be accused by the Bojolian initially admitted to working between the governments of Turkey Economy Minister who was watching porn during a opposition Armenian National Congress for Turkey’s intelligence service, MIT, and Armenia in 1992. He said that European Union-Armenia workshop, handed in his (HAK) of cover-up, need assistance from but later retracted the pre-trial testimo - made him the object of envy and jeal - resignation, which was accepted. international forensic and other experts ny and pleaded not guilty to the ousy by his Foreign Ministry superiors, The ministry’s representative said the advisor in that endeavor. charges. The former head of the Turkey whom he accused of spreading false handed in his resignation on Monday, June 6, upon Andranik Mirzoyan, the SIS director, desk at the Armenian Foreign Ministry rumors in 1992 and 1993 about his his return from a business trip to Moscow. and Vahagn Harutiunian, the head of an said during his two-month trial that he links with Turkish intelligence opera - The reason for his resignation was not men- SIS team conducting the inquiry, were falsely incriminated himself because he tives. tioned. A representative of the ministry did not rule also present at the meeting. Harutiunian feared torture and wanted to ensure the He claimed that then-Foreign out that the reason may be the recent scandal. The told Melia that since Sargisian’s order safety of his wife and three children. Minister Vahan Papazian, a key member website slaq.am showed the advisor engrossed in issued in late April his team has interro - Bojolian, who made occasional free - of Ter-Petrosian’s administration, told his viewing. gated 70 witnesses and plans to question lance contributions to Turkish media him to resign or risk criminal proceed - more than 400 others. after leaving the government in the late ings. Papazian denied that in an The statement added that the US offi - 1990s, lodged an appeal to the European October 2002 interview with RFE/RL’s Armenian Trucks Not cial praised the investigators for the Court of Human Rights in 2003, saying Armenian service. “great deal of work” done by them. “I that he was jailed for his journalistic In his initial pre-trial testimony, Allowed to Enter Turkey can feel just how well-informed you are activities and never had access to state Bojolian claimed to have passed on a YEREVAN (news.am) — Armenian cargo is not about the investigation,” he was quoted secrets. The Strasbourg case rejected the broad range of information about allowed to enter Turkey while in transit, despite as saying. appeal in November 2009. Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh to that they have permission from the European The investigation has until now tar - The scholar, who was born in Turkey Turkish intelligence agents in exchange Conference of Ministers of Transportation and geted supporters and associates of HAK and immigrated to Soviet Armenia in for money. The testimony contained Black Sea economic cooperation, Armenian leader Levon Ter-Petrosian. More than the 1960s, insisted on his innocence detailed accounts of his alleged con - Minister of Transportation and Communication 100 of them were arrested following the after being greeted by family members tacts with MIT during six different trips Manuk Vardanyan said at the International Road unrest on what the Armenian opposition and activists of the opposition to Istanbul between 2000 and 2001. Transport Union (IRU) conference here. regards as trumped-up charges. By con - Armenian National Congress (HAK) Although the defendant retracted the However, Turkish trucks enter Armenia without trast, virtually no law-enforcement offi - outside a maximum security prison in written account during the trial, the any problems. Turkey is also a member of IRU. cers have been prosecuted to date. central Yerevan. court found it credible. One of the trial The Armenian Ministry of Transportation and Melia met with Ter-Petrosian later in “I think that during all these years a prosecutors said that its detailed Communication and IRU will sign a memorandum the day. A short statement by the HAK considerable part of the society has descriptions “could not have been fabri - which allows Armenian cargo to enter Turkey, said they focused the political situation realized what the truth is,” he said. cated even with the best imagination.” Chairman of Armenian International Road Carriers in Armenia. Bojolian said he has not yet decided But Bojolian and his lawyers insisted Association Herbert Hambardzumyan said. The The US diplomat also met with Foreign whether to engage in political activities. that the National Security Service memorandum will give Armenian authorities a Minister Eduard Nalbandian. According to “I never engaged in politics. I was a spe - (NSS), which handled the case, failed to chance to maneuver in negotiations with Turkey. the Armenian Foreign Ministry, the two cialist, I did my job … God knows what come up with any compelling evidence. men discussed “the Armenian authorities’ will happen from now on,” he said. Some human rights campaigners agree efforts to strengthen democracy, positive He also confirmed his strong support with this assertion. One of them, Artur progress registered in that direction and for the HAK. “But it would be wrong to Sakunts, on Friday called Bojolian a further steps.” give credit only to the HAK because it “prisoner of conscience.” S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Armenian Foundation Retrieves International News Iran Now Turkey’s Former Property in Istanbul Premier Oil Supplier TEHRAN (UPI) — In a development fraught with Selamet Inn in Karaköy in Beyoglu, was the church, Ergan said. significance for Turkish-US relations, Iran has By Vercihan Zifilioglu also handed back to the Surp Pirgiç Patriarch Mesrob II and other leading become Turkey’s leading provider of crude oil. Armenian Hospital Foundation earlier figures in the Armenian community had Turkey’s Energy Market Regulatory Authority in 2011, following a legal battle that decided to close the school down, fol - (EPDK) noted the development in a report, the ISTANBUL (Hürriyet Daily News) — lasted several years. lowing an appeal by the foundation’s Tehran Times reported Tuesday, May 31. The Foundations Directorate General has Unlike the Selamet Inn, however, the former administration, but this decision The development represents a new challenge for turned over the property rights of a his - return of the building in Topkapi was was later overturned, said the church the United States, which has repeatedly tightened torical building in Istanbul’s Topkapi accomplished without any legal hassle president. sanctions on Iran over its nuclear energy program. neighborhood back to the Surp Nigoghos after the church foundation simply filed Turkey’s Greek community decided Tehran insists the program is for peaceful purpos- Armenian Church Foundation. an appeal to the directorate general. last month to close down the Iokimian es, but Washington and other Western countries The church foundation’s president, “Even the reclaimed buildings will not School in the district of Fener, the maintain that it conceals a covert nuclear weapons Monik Ergan, expressed his satisfaction be sufficient to [help with the financial] Tatavla Boys’ School in Sefa Square in program. with the move, but many other buildings upkeep of the school and the church,” the district of Sisli as well as the Private From January-March, the EPDK reported that in Topkapi were yet to be reclaimed, said Murat Çakan, the church founda - Arnavutköy Coed Greek School, which Iran exported more than 1.8 million tons of crude according to the administration. tion’s second president. was founded in 1902. The historical oil to Turkey, accounting for 30 percent of Turkey’s “I believe the laws passed by the The foundation is in desperate finan - schools will be transformed into cultur - crude imports. Justice and Development Party [AKP, in cial straits, Çakan said, adding that al centers to provide new income for the During the first two months of 2011, bilateral 2008] concerning foundations are many documents listing foundation community. trade between Iran and Turkey surpassed $2.1 bil- extremely useful. [But] I do not want to property had been found in the church “The Greek community may have lion, while in 2010 bilateral trade value was worth talk about either politics or anything archives. shut their schools down, but we are a $10.6 billion and in 2010, a 97 percent increase else about the AKP,” Ergan, the church The foundation in Topkapi, a 195- community 60,000 strong,” Ergan said, over 2009 statistics. foundation’s president, said. year-old institution, operates the Levon reiterating his opposition to closing The Turkish Statistical Institute reported that Another historical building, the Vartuhan Primary School in addition to their schools. bilateral trade value will surpass $15 billion in 2011 under the terms of a preferential trade agree- ment. AGBU Buenos Aires Joins Other Organizations in Armenian Cultural Hosting ‘First Days of Cinema and Independent TV’ Center Opens in Tbilisi BUENOS AIRES — On March 17-19, sion followed TBILISI (PanArmenian.Net) — Mayor of Yerevan the organization BRIDGE — with the Nesci’s talk and Karen Karapetyan and Mayor of Tbilisi Gigi support of the Armenian General the filmmaker Ugulava attended the opening ceremony of an Benevolent Union (AGBU) Buenos answered every Armenian cultural center in the Georgian capital. Aires, the National Institute of question. He According to Georgia Online, the two mayors Audiovisual Arts (INCAA), the govern - even touched stressed the importance of maintenance of cultural ment of the City of Buenos Aires and upon his newest ties and cooperation between the neighbor coun- Atorrante Films — hosted a three-day cinematograph - tries. presentation and seminar, titled “First ic production, Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of Days of Cinema and Independent TV.” “All You Need is All Armenians, who was also present at the cere- The first day began with a greeting Love,” a roman - mony, noted that opening of a cultural center evi- from Eugenia Akopian, a member of tic comedy that dences close cooperation between Armenia and BRIDGE, to the attending public. She delves into the Georgia. presented Gabriel Nesci to the audi - lives of four peo - ence, who is the director and ple. The film is scriptwriter of the television minis - due to start pro - Cooperation between eries, “All Those Against Juan.” This duction in June Members of the organization BRIDGE with renowned television Armenia and Sicily series was originally broadcast in 2008 and will be out director Gabriel Nesci by America TV, while its second sea - for distribution PALERMO, Italy (Armenpress) — Armenian son in 2010 was broadcast by Telefe. It next year. The Ambassador to Italy Ruben Karapetyan was here on received the Martin Fierro award, the first day of the three-day event ended actress Electra Avellan (“Machete,” June 9-12. He met with the local authorities as well most prominent Argentinean award for with a special concert by Brenda “Grindhouse,” “Proof of Death” and as representatives of business circles. radio and television, in two categories, Vaneskeheian and Tigran and Tomás “Amelia’s 25th”). The short films of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs press office including best miniseries and best lead Vardanyan, members of the band, the finalists were screened and awards reported that June 9 the ambassador met with the actor of a miniseries. The series was Without Class. were presented to the winners. president of the Regional Assembly of Sicily, also honored with the FUND TV award The second day focused on the Ignacio Balassanian, president of Francesco Cascio, and Palermo Mayor Diego for best fictional miniseries. Short Film Contest. After months of the AGBU Young Professionals of Camarata, with whom he discussed the develop- At the beginning of the lecture, receiving films that were sent from Buenos Aires, awarded an honorable ment of trade and cultural ties between Armenia Nesci recounted his childhood and several countries, the jury chose 10 mention to the short film “On the and Sicily. During the meetings an arrangement early interest in television and film. finalists. Jury members included Roger Culture of Hawaiian Saturday,” which was reached to organize the visit of the Sicilian The young director maintained the Kupelian (“Lord of the Rings,” “Alice was directed by Patricio Carragio. businessmen to Armenia to get acquainted with audience’s attention, while he dis - in Wonderland,” “Flag of Our Third place was presented by investment opportunities. cussed his experience creating the Fathers”); Martin Yernazian (“Art Francisco Balassanian, president of On the same day, Karapetyan participated in the first and second season of his Officially Favored,” “Through the the AGBU Youth League, to Khen business forum where he presented the investment acclaimed miniseries. An open discus - Looking Glass,” “Amelia’s 25th”) and Shomron’s “Paper Games.” Second opportunities in Armenia, the prior programs of the place was given to the Spanish pro - government as well as the favorable legislative field. duction of “The Courtship of Mariana During the visit to Palermo the ambassador gave a Seresesky” and first place was award - lecture at the Palermo Rotary club, during which the ed to “Because There Are Things That film, “Armenia, Noah’s Country,” was presented. Catholicos Visits Javakhk Are Never Forgotten,” by Lucas Figueroa. The award was presented by JAVAKHK, from page 1 II to address the crowd. He stated that Berdjuhí Emirian, benefactor and hon - ICRC Representatives The two church leaders then made the trip of Karekin II was an historic orary member of AGBU. Visit Armenian Captives their way to St. Gregory the Illuminator occasion and stressed the important “First Days of Cinema and Armenian Church in Akhaltskha. There contributions made by Armenians in Independent TV” came to a close on In Azerbaijan to greet them were local community Georgia in the life of the country. March 19 in the Jorge Luis Borges leaders and young Armenians dressed Karekin II then presented the church Auditorium of the National Library. BAKU (PanARMENIAN.Net) — The employees of in folk costumes who offered the tradi - with a gift of a painting of the Holy The film “Andres Doesn’t Want to the local chapter of the International Committee of tional welcome of bread and salt. Virgin Mother. Take a Nap,” by Daniel Bustamante the Red Cross (ICRC) visited Armenian captives in Karekin II then addressed the assem - The delegation then made its way to and Aleandro Norm, was screened. Azerbaijan. bled crowd, saying he was pleased to see the Hovhannes Tumanyan Armenian Following the viewing, director As the head of the public relations service at that Javakhk Armenians continued to fol - School in Akhaltskha. There they were Bustamante and actors Fabio Aste and ICRC Armenian representation, Ashot Astabatsyan low the path of their ancestors and entertained by students, who had pre - Marcelo Melingo recounted their expe - said three Armenian servicemen and a family of remain faithful to the Armenian Church. pared a literary and musical recital. riences making the film. Through five were visited. “A monitoring of the keeping con- The Armenian Church pontiff urged School Principal Svetlanna questions from the public, the panel ditions and their physical state was conducted, let- the crowd to boldly face the challenges Harutyunyan welcomed the church not only addressed the technical com - ters to families passed over,” he said. confronting them while at the same leaders on behalf of the school staff and ponents of their work, such as the According to the ICRC, eight Armenian citizens — time promising that the church would pupils. Karekin II then blessed all in photography, art and overall produc - three servicemen and family of five civilians — are do all it could to provide religious and attendance, urging them to watch over tion, but the social and historical nar - held hostage in Azerbaijan. educational guidance. the educational institution as a nation - ratives that were implicit in the theme It was then the turn of Catholicos Ilia al treasure. of the film. 4 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL Azerbaijan Frees Journalist after Years of World Pressure

from lack of exercise. Fatullayev wrote that the interior minister Human Rights ruled he had been denied a fair By Kathy Lally “It was a terrible experience,” he said, his was responsible, as well, because he was in trial and ordered his release. “The govern - eyes red and blinking, still adjusting to nor - charge. The minister won a defamation suit, ment was very irritated,” Fatullayev said. mal light two days after his release. “I spent a and Fatullayev was fined, given a suspended Before the ruling could be acted upon, he was BAKU, Azerbaijan (Washington Post) — On lot of time in dark rooms.” jail sentence and the kind of government accused of possessing heroin in prison and Thursday, May 26, at 6 p.m., Eynulla Fatullayev said he was moved to different attention meant to keep him quiet. given a new sentence of two-and-a-half years. Fatullayev lay on his prison bunk ready for prisons, often held in solitary confinement He was arrested in April 2007. “The gov - From March 2 to April 2, he was in solitary his nightly battle with despair, a young news - and frequently ill. In standard barracks, 100 ernment suddenly remembered I had visited at prison No. 1. “There were great rats,” he paper editor growing old midway through an to a room, prisoners were awakened at 6 a.m. Nagorno-Karabagh in 2005,” he said, refer - said. “At night I could see them on my body.” eight-and-a-half year sentence for writing and sent out into a small yard where they ring to the territory that is the subject of an Both his mother, 60, and his father, 61, lost articles that the Azerbaijani government dis - stayed until 10 p.m., with no roof overhead unresolved dispute between Azerbaijan and their jobs because of him. Without help from liked. and nothing to sit on. In solitary, where he Armenia. Fatullayev’s interviews had pro - the Committee to Protect Journalists, Fatullayev knew that media and human spent three, five and 10 days at a time, a duced an account of a well-known massacre Amnesty International, the Open Society rights groups around the world — and even wooden frame without a mattress was pulled there in 1992 during Azerbaijan’s six-year war Institute and others, he said, his family would the US government — were fighting for him, down from the wall at 9 p.m. and folded up at with Armenia. He was jailed for two-and-a-half not have survived. but he had little reason to hope for justice. 5 a.m. The single window had no glass. years for insulting the honor and dignity of He turned to the late Alexander When told to pick up his things and report to A long list of media and human rights orga - Azerbaijani refugees from the territory. Solzhenitsyn. “Every prisoner had a book,” the warden, he had no idea what to expect — nizations appealed on his behalf. The Council Another article suggested that if the United he said. “One might have the Koran , another they could hardly move him to a prison worse of Europe’s human rights commissioner visit - States and Iran ever went to war, Iran could the Bible . Mine was The Gulag Archipelago . than Strict Regime Penal Colony No. 1. ed him three times, Fatullayev said, and even - attack Azerbaijan. He was charged with ter - When I lost hope, I opened Solzhenitsyn and Moments later, the warden told him he had tually won him the right to read newspapers. rorism. I said to myself — I talked to myself every been pardoned by the president, Ilham Aliyev. The US State Department publicly called for An article about the prevalence of tribalism night — ‘He was in a far worse place and kept Unbelievably, Fatullayev was free. The warden his release. in national politics — many officials are from his will. You can keep yours.’” did not let him call his parents — no crowds Both President Barack Obama and the president’s home region — brought him Now, in freedom, he is trying to figure out should gather to cheer him — but personally Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, he ethnic-hatred charges. how to live again. drove him home. After more than four years was told, brought his case up with Aliyev. “Six months later, the tax inspectorate “I am thinking, how can I continue my jour - of cold and deprivation, Fatullayev left prison After his editor at the Monitor newspaper launched an investigation into my newspa - nalism? The first way leads me to prison. The in a Mercedes Benz. was killed in 2005, Fatullayev started two pers,” he said. “I was charged with evading second may lead me to the cemetery. What do “I only wanted to run a professional news - newspapers of his own, one in Russian and taxes. I got an additional three months.” His I do? paper,” said Fatullayev, who entered prison at one in Azerbaijani. He first got into trouble newspapers were closed, and he had a total of “Right now,” he added, “I can only say that age 29, dark-haired and youthful-looking, and describing a police gang of criminals, led by a eight-and-a-half years of prison ahead of him. I’m trying to understand freedom. It’s a mira - emerged at 34, balding, graying and paunchy deputy minister who was ultimately jailed. In April 2010, the European Court of cle for me, and I’m trying to understand it.” Cyprus President Inaugurates AGBU Armenian Cultural Centre

LARNACA, Cyprus — On May 5, Demetris councilors of the Larnaca municipality; several Armenian Prelature of Cyprus, Christofias, president of the Republic of Cyprus, members of the House of Representatives of Varoujan Hergelian, conducted inaugurated the AGBU Armenian Cultural the Republic of Cyprus and representatives of an official blessing of the new Centre, which is a new home for Armenian cul - all the political parties represented in the building. ture, ethnology and art. The center will present House, as well as Armenian and Greek Cypriots Yacoubian conveyed his and promote the history and culture of Armenia from Larnaca, Limassol and Nicosia. Also gratitude to Christofias for his in general and the Armenian community of attending the ceremony on behalf of the presi - agreement to personally open Cyprus in particular, with the aim of deepening dent of the AGBU, Berge Setrakian, and the the AGBU Armenian Cultural the understanding and appreciation of the cul - AGBU leadership, was Damascus-based Central Centre. He also stressed the tural heritage that bonds all Armenians. It will Board member Vasken Yacoubian, who arrived excellent relations that have disseminate information with regard to the pos - for the occasion. always existed between the itive contributions of the Armenian community In his opening statement, Roupen Kalaydjian AGBU and the government of to the economic, social and cultural develop - of the AGBU Larnaca Chapter thanked the pres - the Republic of Cyprus. ment of Cyprus. It will also organize confer - ident not only for agreeing to personally preside Furthermore, he stated that ences, seminars, symposia and workshops; pre - over the opening of the new center, but also for the Center in Larnaca aimed Demetris Christofias, president of the Republic of Cyprus, cutting sent artistic and musical performances and his decades-long support of the Armenian com - not only to preserve and pro - the ribbon at the May 5 inauguration ceremonies of the AGBU house a library. munity of Cyprus, culminating in his unveiling mote Armenian culture but Armenian Cultural Centre in Larnaca, Cyprus The gathering of over 200 participants of the Armenian Genocide Memorial on also to highlight the positive included the current mayor of Larnaca, Andreas Larnaca’s seafront three years earlier. After role that Armenians have Moyseos, along with two previous mayors, Kalaydjian’s statement, the Archbishop of the played in the island’s development. him “particularly with its invitation to celebrate The chairman of AGBU Larnaca, Stephanos the opening of the Armenian Cultural Centre.” Kamakian, thanked all the parties involved in He added that the Center, beyond its cultural the project, including the AGBU Central Board, character, proved that Armenians, as an inte - Georgian Church Disputes Closer to Resolution the Kalaydjian Foundation, the AGBU Larnaca, gral part of the Cypriot people, contributed pos - Limassol and Nicosia Chapters and several itively and substantially to the broader econom - DISPUTE, from page 1 Karekin visited two of those churches located prominent Armenian-Cypriot families, as well as ic, social and cultural development of the island. Karekin expressed his satisfaction with the in Tbilisi later on Saturday. One of them partly Referring to the centuries-old meetings as he and Ilia made public statements crumbled last year, while the other was severe - friendship between the at the Georgian patriarch’s official residence in ly damaged by a fire in 2001. Armenian and Cypriot peoples Tbilisi. Karekin did not inspect another, more and their common struggle for In a separate statement, Karekin’s press famous Tbilisi church built in the 15th century peace and justice, as well as the office said the two sides agreed that the and known as Norashen. It has been the largest excellent relations between the Georgian authorities should finally grant a source of tensions between the two ancient republics of Armenia and “legal status” to the local diocese of the Christian institutions. Cyprus, the president recalled Armenian Church. Like Georgia’s other minori - Ilia, meanwhile, pressed Georgian claims to the importance of Larnaca as ty denominations, the diocese has no official several medieval and mostly abandoned church - the first port of call for the registration and is therefore not treated by the es located in Armenia’s northern Lori province. thousands of Armenian Georgian authorities as a single legal entity. The area was for centuries controlled by refugees fleeing the Genocide The statement said the parties also agreed on Georgian kings through their Armenian vassals. of 1915-1923. the need to grant an official status to “the Some of those noble families were members of He also thanked the Georgian religious community in Armenia.” It the Georgian Church. Armenian community for its was not clear if it referred to Armenia’s tiny eth - “When talking about churches, one must not A view of the recently inaugurated AGBU Armenian Cultural support to the government in nic Georgian community or Armenian adherents forget that both sides have demands,” said Ilia. Centre in Larnaca, Cyprus its efforts to find a just and of Greek Orthodox faith that were subordinate to “Both sides have facts and documents regard - viable solution to the Cyprus the Georgian Church during the Middle Ages. ing Armenian churches in Georgia and Question, and paid tribute to Very little is known about them at present. Georgian churches in Armenia.” benefactors from abroad, who with their gener - and expressed his admiration for the philan - Ilia cited Saakashvili as saying that the Ilia proposed that the two sides set up a joint ous sponsorship and guidance, as well as finan - thropic work done by the AGBU for over a cen - Armenian Church should have the same status commission of scholars who would look into the cial support, had made the realization of the tury. In his closing remarks, the president in Georgia as the Georgian Church in Armenia. matter and propose solutions. Karekin said the project possible. announced that as an acknowledgement of the The patriarch backed this position. Armenian Church supports the idea in principle. Dikran Kalaydjian, the chairman of the importance of the creation and operation of the According to Karekin’s office, the Georgian Both church leaders stressed that these dis - Kalaydjian Foundation and vice-chairman of center, the Government had decided to donate side also pledged to preserve several medieval putes should not damage relations between the AGBU Larnaca, presented Christofias with a the sum of 15,000 euros (about $21,100), as a churches previously used by the Georgian- two states. “Our peoples are bound by numer - commemorative gift — a book about the history further token of support. Armenian community “until their return to the ous spiritual, cultural and historical links con - and culture of the ancient Armenian territory of The ceremony concluded with the unveiling diocese.” “The issue of the return of the church - trary to theological differences between our Karabagh. by the president of a plaque and the cutting of es will be discussed at the next stage,” read its Churches that emerged as a result of historical Addressing the large gathering, the Cypriot the ribbon, followed by a reception and media statement. developments,” said Karekin. president stated that the AGBU had honored interviews. S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 Community Ne ws

‘Bridge to the Future’ Officials Call on Feds Gala to Be Held To Probe Murder October 1 for New Suspect’s Release San Diego Church LOS ANGELES (CBS) — City Councilman Paul Krekorian called SAN DIEGO — On Saturday, October 1, the Wednesday for a federal investigation St. John Garabed Armenian Church Trust Fund into the decision by a Puerto Rican Committee will host the “Bridge to the Future” judge to release a North Hollywood Gala Banquet at the Grand Del Mar Hotel. The murder suspect who has since gone gala will celebrate a new era for the San Diego missing. Armenian community as it builds a new church Krekorian introduced a motion calling campus. on the Los Angeles congressional delega - Headlined by attorney Mark Geragos as mas - tion and Sens. Barbara Boxer and Diane ter of ceremonies, with guest of honor Feinstein, both D-Calif., to push for an Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the gala will fea - investigation by the FBI and other rele - ture entertainer Koko Hayitian and his band, as vant federal agencies. well as silent and live auctions. “I cannot comprehend any justification The St. John Garabed Trust Fund has pur - for this judge to release a murder suspect chased 14 acres of land at 13860 El Camino who may be responsible for brutally tak - Real, to build a new church campus, including ing an innocent life over nothing more a state-of-the-art banquet and reception hall, than a text message,” Krekorian said. cultural/educational center and library, gym - David Barber “This bail decision is so completely con - nasium and heritage park. Overseeing this trary to standard protocol it defies any effort is the parish priest of St. John Garabed explanation based on law, evidence or jus - Armenian Church, Rev. Datev A.K. Tatoulian. tice.” The gala will support the first phase of Barber Foods’ Future Mike Yepremyan, 19, was shot and fundraising for the “Bridge to the Future” killed in a Sears parking lot in November campaign. 2009. “The San Diego-Armenian community has Puerto Rican Judge Gloria Maynard never had an opportunity like this, to create a Based in Investments, allowed 23-year-old Zareh Manjikian, the true center of Armenian life in the county,” said primary suspect in the murder, to post Gala Co-chair Kathy Kassardjian, “a place for all $50,000 bond in late May, despite specific Armenians to come together to worship God, Fewer Jobs protests by the LAPD. District Attorney learn, raise their families, experience lifelong Steve Cooley had also requested friendships and live the Armenian-American Manjikian’s PORTLAND, Maine (Maine Business News) — In the past year, as David Barber dream.” For information about the gala or spon - extradition to and his three siblings shopped for a buyer for their family-owned company, they sorship levels, email [email protected]. Los Angeles, refused to consider any potential owner who would move the longstanding Barber according to Foods factory and headquarters out of Portland. Krekorian. “The plant has always been here,” says David Barber, president of the company. Federal mar - “Dad started the company 55 years ago here and we didn’t want to see the jobs shals were or the plant shift out of here.” St. Mark Church Notes searching for Gus Barber, a first-generation Armenian who died in 2008, founded Barber Manjikian, who Foods in 1955 with one employee, a sharp butcher knife and an old truck, accord - 53rd Anniversary was living in a ing to the company website. Today the company has 650 employees and operates beach town SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Archbishop Khajag out of a 230,000-square-foot facility on apartment in Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the St. John Street, producing products Carolina, near Armenian Church of America (Eastern), visited such as frozen chicken cordon blue, scal - By Rebecca Goldfine San Juan, Mike Yepremyan, 19, St. Mark Church, on Sunday, May 15, where he lop-and-lobster-stuffed chicken, chicken Puerto Rico. was shot and killed in celebrated the Divine Liturgy and presided over nuggets and chicken fingers. This year it Investigators Los Angeles in the church’s 53rd anniversary banquet. paid about $71,000 in property taxes to the city of Portland, according to the city’s believe November 2009. Barsamian congratulated the St. Mark parish treasury department. Manjikian shot and expressed his appreciation to its members Last week, the four Barber siblings announced they sold the company to and killed for their dedication to building a strong com - AdvancePierre Foods, based in Cincinnati, for an undisclosed price. AdvancePierre, Yepremyan in a series of events that started munity. The Primate added that he looked for - which was formed by the merger of two family-owned companies last year, sells with Yepremyan sending a text message. ward to returning to Springfield for the 110th packaged sandwiches, chicken, beef and bakery products to the food service, Yepremyan allegedly sent a text mes - Diocesan Assembly, which will be hosted by St. school, club, vending and convenience store markets. The acquisition of Barber sage to his girlfriend insulting her friend, Mark Church in the spring of 2012. Foods is AdvancePierre’s 11th food production facility and will help the company Kat Vardanian. Prosecutors said During the afternoon program, the parish expand on the East Coast, according to Bill Toler, CEO of AdvancePierre Foods. Vardanian saw the text message, was honored choir director Brenda Jermakian with Oaktree Capital Management LP, a Los Angeles-based investment firm, is the angry and called her brother to beat up the “St. Mark Parishioner of the Year” award. majority shareholder and will continue to maintain a majority share of the com - Yepremyan. The award was presented by Jane Garabedian. pany, according to a company press release. AdvancePierre, which employs 4,000 Witnesses said Yepremyan received Barsamian congratulated Jermakian, and people, reported net sales of $1.4 billion last year. phone calls from a stranger who wanted wished her continued success in directing the AdvancePierre plans to invest up to $10 million of equipment upgrades starting to meet him outside Sears in the 6400 choir program. immediately at the Portland facility to increase the efficiency and speed of pro - block of North Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Parish Council member Steven Omartian duction lines, according to Toler. The goal is to eventually double the plant’s pro - near Victory Boulevard. served as master of ceremonies. He introduced duction, although Barber declined to reveal current production levels. When Yepremyan and several friends the students of the parish Armenian School, The modernization of the plant will result in layoffs over the next 12 months. arrived at the parking lot there were two who greeted the Primate, recited a poem in While layoffs at any workplace are difficult, the population at Barber Foods may men. The conversation appeared to reach Armenian and sang Yerevan Erebuni . make the upcoming changes even more challenging. a peaceful conclusion, but somebody Edward Garabedian spoke about the church’s Since the Vietnam War, Barber Foods has made a name for itself as a welcom - struck Yepremyan. Officials said parking lot and driveway construction project. ing workplace for Portland’s immigrants. “We actively reached out in the 1970s Manjikian pulled out a gun and shot The day’s proceeds will help fund the under - when the Vietnam War ended,” Barber says. “We were an entry point for immi - Yepremyan in the back of the head. taking. grants who could start on the production lines and start a new life.” A few employ - Manjikian and the other man, who The afternoon concluded with a slide presen - ees working at Barber Foods have been with the company for more than 30 years, was identified by prosecutors as Vahagn tation by Marie Vartanian, a registered nurse, he adds. Jurian, 23, sped off in a black BMW. who spoke about her involvement in providing Over the years, as more immigrant communities arrived in Maine beyond the Jurian’s father said that a day after the medical training in Armenia. She noted that first wave of Vietnamese refugees, they were directed by social service workers to shooting his son had called and Harvard University has worked with area hospi - apply for jobs at Barber Foods. Today, at least half the work force comes from out - described his involvement in a deadly tals to collect and donate medical equipment to side the United States, and at any given time 50 different languages might be spo - fight. Armenia. ken on the plant floor, according to Barber. Jurian was arrested in his Van Nuys Anna Garabedian, Parish Council chair, A few of the workers were highly-trained professionals, such as doctors or engi - home last week on suspicion of murder. expressed her appreciation to Banquet neers, in their home countries, Barber says, and some did so well at Barber Foods Kerkorian’s motion also asks the city Committee members for their hard work and they were able to attain supervisory positions over time. to go on record requesting that Puerto thanked the attendees for supporting St. Mark At the moment, it is unclear how many jobs will be lost when AdvancePierre Rican Gov. Luis Fortuno and Attorney Church in its anniversary celebration. completes its upgrade. Barber says within the next month, the company will have General Guillermo Somoza-Comobani Banquet Committee members include: Linda a better idea of its future production needs. All workers on the production lines, direct all necessary resources and atten - Arslanian, Diane Boghosian, Shelley Cotton, see BARBER, page 7 tion to Manjikian’s recapture. Donna Scaglarini and Honor Takorian. Marian Orcutt Varteresian chaired the committee. 6 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Nutrition Symposium Satisfied Appetite of Participants

BEVERLY, Mass. — The Northeast mation in relation supplement changes. During breaks, attendees Massachusetts Dietetic Association (NEMDA) to gastrointestinal were able to trial a Reiki or Tong Ren healing sponsored its first Inetgrative Nutrition disorders, the session, work with a physical therapist or speak Symposium (INS) on March 11, at the Wylie dietary causes and with a body therapeutics expert. Conference Center and Inn here. The event was strategies to reduce The INS was also an opportunity for MDA a full day with five speakers, vendors and hands- it as well as how to members and students to volunteer in planning on demonstrations from local providers. The test for allergies and coordinating a full, day-long program. speakers were planned perfectly to build on and immune Overall, the feedback from the participants that each other’s topic. responses. At this attended INS emphasized how each speaker Colleen Fogarty Draper, MS, RD, LDN, start - point, the INS complimented each other’s lectures and atten - ed the morning reviewing the science of genet - attendees were dees were able to enjoy a day, which was filled ics in relation to nutrition, food and lifestyle. Dr. learning how oxida - with opportunities to network with other nutri - Alan Gaby spoke next on controversies in nutri - tive stress is linked tion professionals. tion, specifically discussing calcium, Vitamin D, to chronic disease Susuan Hazarvartian was chairperson of the iodine, Vitamin E, homocysteine, folate, Vitamin and the current day. She and her committee planned a vegetar - A and strontium. The antioxidant paradox was research on how ian luncheon buffet, which got rave reviews that addressed by Dr. Jeffrey Blumberg. The nutrition can play a went along with the theme of the speakers of hyphothesis of dietary antioxidants inhibiting role in improving The committee with Susan Hazarvartian, fifth from right the day. oxidative injury, in turn reducing the risk of health. The final NEMDA has been asked to be on the second chronic disease was examined closely by review - speaker wrapped Integrative Nutrition Symposium, which MDA ing current literature and research. up the entire day by reviewing nutrition thera - nutrition challenges that people manage and has established a grant to do so, thus they are The fourth speaker of the day was Gita Patel, py approaches by utilizing several case studies. how dieticians can make a difference by improv - in the process of implementing another sympo - MS, RD, CDE and LDN. Patel reviewed inflam - Ranan Cohen, MS, RD and LDN, discussed ing quality of life through lifestyle, intake and sium for April 2012 at this time.

OBITUARY Ohannes John Avdoian: Veteran, Born Aboard Ship Headed to America

NIAGARA FALLS, N. Y. — Ohannes John aviation cadet. He became an aerial gunner, donation may further the science to conquer predeceased by his infant twin sister, Margrid, Avdoian, age 87, died at home on Saturday, May receiving his aviation badge as a member of the this disease. In the end, it was not the ALS to brother, Arsen (wife Alice) Avdoian and nephew 28. 3701st Army Air Force Base Unit. He was which he succumbed. At 87 years, while sleep - Gregg Avdoian. Born at sea aboard the S. S Mexico on awarded the American Theatre Service Medal ing peacefully, his weakened heart stopped. He was a member of the American Legion February 3, 1924, he was the son of the late and the World War II Victory Medal and was He is survived by his son, Richard Dikran and the Armenian American Veterans Sahag and Gulizar (Der Ohanesian) Avdoian honorably discharged in November 1945. He (wife Nancy) Avdoian of Fairview Heights, Ill., Organization. He was also a communicant of who had left their ancestral homeland of Van, considered his years as a pilot his life’s highest daughters, Deborah Zevart (husband Albert both St. Sarkis and St. Hagop Armenian Armenia, in the aftermath of the Armenian accomplishment and a source of honor and Sargavak) Amato, of Niagara Falls and Pamela Churches in Niagara Falls. Genocide. pride for the rest of his life. Ashkhren Avdoian of Las Vegas: five grandchil - Officiating at prayers for the repose of his Gulizar had seen her first husband and three A dutiful son, he put aside his heart’s desire dren, Alexan Avedis Amato, Esq., Karine Lucia soul and the funeral were Very Rev. Keghart sons, Ohannes, Arsen and Ardzroon killed by to become a commercial pilot because his Amato, Gregory Ara Avdoian, John Nishan Kosbakian, Rev. Serop Azarian and Rev. Datev the Turks in Van. Having survived, she made mother would cry in fear of losing another Avdoian and James Sahag Avdoian. He is also Melingitchian, assisted by his son-in-law, her way to son. He then went to school in Cleveland to survived by his brother Arthur Ardzroon (wife Deacon Albert Amato. Istanbul, where she become a licensed Master Butcher. Returning Mary) Avdoian, sister, Margaret Avdoian both of The funeral service was on Thursday, June 2 was employed as a to Niagara Falls, he, with his brothers, opened Niagara Falls, and sister, Rosalind Vartanoush at St. Sarkis Armenian Church, 300 Ninth St. housekeeper for a Avdoian Bros. Groceries. The store was a fix - (late husband, Michael) Mashoian of California. honors was at Riverdale Cemeter Lewiston, NY. wealthy Armenian ture there for 47 years, where many citizens of Also, he is survived by sister-in-law Shamiram In lieu of flowers, the family requests that, to family. There she the city to this day remember going for their (late husband Hrant) Kezirian and special honor his wish, memorial donations may be met Sahag, who penny candies and other treats. cousin-in-law Takouhie Kakligian of Illinois, also made to St. Nersess Armenian Seminary, 150 also had managed True to the generous spirit instilled in them survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews, Stratton Rd., New Rochelle, NY 10804, to be to escape the Van by their father, many were the times Avdoian one great-nephew and one newborn great-niece. used for the education of future priests of the massacres. He was and his brothers filled needy customers’ gro - In addition to his wife and parents, he was Armenian Apostolic Church in America. a chauffeur and cery bags with much more than the money taxi driver, driving tended accounted for. prominent passen - As he and his brothers took turns working gers around the evening shift at the store, he also became Ohannes John Avdoian Istanbul. The two a full-time employee of the US Postal Service were married in the as a mailman, retiring in 1986 after 25 years church there and of service. began a journey all the way to India, walking On May 13, 1950, he married Lucille Lucia GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E most of the way, seeking passage to freedom Kakligian of Granite City, Ill. She ran the gro - and a new life in America. Eventually they were cery store by day. They had a son and two James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC able to book passage on a ship from India to daughters. She predeceased him on January 11, Funeral Counselor America. Filled with refugees, the people were 2008 after 57 years of marriage. He was a very 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 starving. There was a cow on board, but no one proud and loving grandfather to his five grand - www.giragosianfuneralhome.com dared kill it for fear of antagonizing the Hindus children. on board. Sahag butchered the cow and made In retirement he and his wife enjoyed spend - herissah to feed the people. Because there was ing the winter with their daughter in Las Vegas. a quota on the number of Armenian refugees In his mid 70s he enrolled at UNLV taking avi - allowed to enter the US annually, they disem - ation courses, giving him the opportunity to Telephone (617) 924-7400 barked in Cuba, where they stayed for several once again soar through the air piloting an air - years until they were granted entry into the US. plane. Sahag managed to learn enough Spanish to sell Even as illness confined him to a wheelchair, Aram Bedrosian dresses in the streets of Havana. Eventually, he was a Buffalo Bills fan and avid sports fan, they were able to book passage to Ellis Island rarely missing the chance to wager a small bet Funeral Home, Inc. aboard the S. S. Mexico. On board the ship, on a game or a horse. Known by his initials, OJ, Gulizar gave birth to twins, Ohannes and to all, he considered he had a charmed life. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 Margrid. They were quarantined at Ellis Island While training as an aviation cadet he was MARION BEDROSIAN for some time and then made their way to involved in a midair collision with another 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN Niagara Falls to join many other families who plane. Safely managing to land that aircraft, his WATERTOWN, MA 02472 had settled there from Van. instructor had him jump in the next plane and LARRY BEDROSIAN While Avdoian survived, his twin sister died a immediately go back up. Later, in order to avoid few months after birth. Eventually two brothers a head-on collision, he had to swerve and topple and two sisters were born. The boys were given his US Mail truck on its side. He managed to the names of Gulizar’s first three sons. The walk away uninjured. Much later in life, when girls, Margaret, after Sahag’s mother, and he was 81, Ohannes was diagnosed with Lou Nardolillo Funeral Home Vartanoush. Sahag always told his son he had Gehrig’s disease. He survived for more than six Est. 1906 left with a purse filled with gold coins. Ohannes years as the disease slowly took away his body’s asked, “Hayrig, why didn’t you save them, ability to function. Doctors were baffled that he John K. Najarian, Jr. where did they go?” Sahag answered, “Son, do did not manifest all the symptoms sooner. Both Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director you think I walked on water to get here?” the VA and the Cleveland Clinic asked for blood Ohannes attended local schools, graduating samples to be used in clinical studies to help 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 from Niagara Falls High School in 1942. He find a cure for this debilitating disease. Their 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 began taking aviation lessons in order to fulfill conclusion was that there was something in his www.nardolillo.com his desire to become an airline pilot and in 1943 genetic makeup that was fighting this disease enlisted in the Army Air Force with the rank of head-on. He was extremely happy that his blood S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Symmes Maini & McKee Associates Fosters a Collaborative, Intellectual Culture through a Series of Education and Training Programs

evaluations from their direct reports and attend AK: People move around. We try to make it cent who do, it’s a great place to stretch your - By Bruce Rogovin workshops to address any weaknesses in their not so often, so that the feeding and caring for self. We’re turning away more people than we management skills. one another by learning has time to happen. My take in. By virtue of these practices, SMMA has been aim is to have half of the staff dedicated to a Inc.: Do you like to hire young employees? CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (Inc.) — Ara Krafian, able to thrive even as the construction sector group and the other half move around and shift AK: I always like to bring young people in, to Symmes Maini and McKee Associates’ (SMMA) has severely diminished. Over the past four to where there is the most workload, but it’s not give them freedom and allow them to challenge president and CEO, came to the firm at age 28. years, the firm has steadily grown, posting rev - quite that mathematical now. We have project things. I like not to pull out the academia so Offering educational programs, he says, is key enue of $29.3 million in 2010. Krafian spoke leaders who are thought leaders for their indus - quickly. In school, you’re meant to stretch out to cultivating leadership. with Inc. senior reporter April Joyner on the try, so they stay in the same group. Our goal is your mind, to think about innovation and cre - Every company looks for smart employees. company’s approach to fostering a stimulating, for people to be able to develop a level of ativity without any preconceived notions of But Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, an collaborative culture. respect and trust for their colleagues. We don’t solutions. You’re more apt to be experimental. architecture firm here, goes the extra mile to Inc.: Why did you decide to organize the want anyone to have a consultant type of gig. When you’ve designed 10 labs, and you start continually stimulate its employees’ intellect office into interdisciplinary groups? Inc.: Do employees in other departments also the next project knowing this is your 11th lab, once they have arrived. The company regularly Ara Karafian: A lot of firms are very com - work collaboratively? you become stale — you approach everything invites academics and other experts to train petitive: if you’re not on the project that’s get - AK: Well, you can’t push finance onto the very similarly. We like to develop a lot of ideas, employees in the latest industry practices, and ting attention, then your contribution isn’t floor. Some things have to remain secure. We test modules and do things differently. We like it pays for employees to hone their expertise by meaningful. Ours is more a culture of winning thought about pushing marketing onto the people who push us. taking courses at local universities, including and losing together. I think the relocation has floor, but we decided not to at the end of the Inc.: How do you approach leadership devel - Harvard and MIT. It also boasts its own set of elevated our game substantially. For people, day. Having five or six people spread out across opment? What qualities do you look for in a educational programs, including knowledge their work becomes something more than just an organization wouldn’t be as effective, so we manager? groups in areas such as sustainable design and their technical discipline. A mechanical engi - ended up keeping the department together. AK: Most of our people have been here a long a mentorship program that annually matches neer will not only be worrying about how to There may be a time when we relocate them, time. I’m not just bringing someone in here and principals with junior employees. flow air through a building, but what type of depending upon the project and need. saying, “You’re in charge.” I’m allowing them to SMMA’s emphasis on education and training, system is most appropriate for kids in a K-12 Inc.: Do people come to the firm already hav - perform and watch. I’m looking to see if they’re says Krafian, is rooted in his belief that intel - building. Also, I think it’s interesting. That’s the ing expertise or interest in a particular industry, providing quality and fitting into our culture. Are lectually engaging work leads to higher morale. quality of life piece. or is that something you seek to foster internally? they influencing things internally and externally The company strongly encourages its employ - Inc.: Although a collaborative culture has AK: We certainly do foster it within the com - in the industry? I think those are the keys. We ees to develop thought leadership in design for advantages, isn’t there also an upside to a com - pany. We have outside people come in to do lec - want our most talented people to be the most sectors such as life sciences and education. To petitive culture, in that it pushes employees to tures on specific areas of practice, and we send senior people. It can’t just be that you have the further encourage knowledge sharing and con - produce better work? employees to offsite courses. Recently, we had a right attitude and you’re hardworking. We still nectivity, the company in 2009 reorganized the AK: A culture of niceness shouldn’t be con - member of our life sciences team take courses need the most talented people to lead the orga - office into interdisciplinary units. Architects, fused with a culture of laziness. We as a firm at Harvard to become more expert on a partic - nization. But we’re not bringing in management engineers and designers now sit together and are very hardworking. I think there’s always ular lab type. But we look at it in a variety of from the outside. We rarely do that, if ever. regularly collaborate. individuals trying to outdo each other, to do the ways. The most prevalent example is our inter - Inc.: Is that why the company invests so The company also has a strong track record best they can do. We work in comprehensive nal mentoring. Very senior architects typically much in education and training programs? of homegrown leadership. Krafian has been teams, so there’s cross-discipline involvement. focus on an industry type, and they in turn AK: It’s just the culture we have — it’s a learn - with SMMA since 1991, and none of the firm’s The architects, the engineers and the site plan - teach our younger employees. ing culture. Obviously, we have lots of tools in board members have been with the company ners are constantly striving to keep up with Inc.: What qualities do you look for in new place to encourage and teach leadership skills, for fewer than 12 years. Last year, SMMA rein - each other. It’s a more healthy approach — employees? whether through classes outside the company forced its commitment to leadership develop - nobody wants to disappoint. AK: You’re looking for the entire person. or doing things inside the company. For me, it CAPE COD FISHINGment th TRIPrough LEAP, a yearlong program for Inc. http://mail.aol.com/33790-111/aol-6/en-us/mai: Are employees permanently assigne!PrintMessage.aspxd to Obviously, they have to be qualified, to do the all comes back to this: you’re on Earth for a cer - department and project managers, who receive groups, or do they rotate? things that need to be done. I think in all cases tain amount of time, and you want to enjoy it. they have to share a belief in our mission state - That doesn’t mean putting your feet up on a ment and our value statement. Some people chair. It means challenging yourself. You want don’t like the idea of integrated collaboration. to make money, make friends, build respect, I’d say 75 to 80 percent of people probably learn something, contribute. All that has to don’t want to work in our environment, and I come together in your personal life and your wouldn’t want them here. But for the 20 per - professional life.

Barber Foods’ Future Based in Investments, Fewer Jobs BARBER, from page 5 stay in place, including the company’s commit - as well as any senior staff people, will receive a ment to hiring foreign-born workers. When 60-day notice and severance pay based on asked about this, Toler wrote in an email that length of time with the company, as well as job AdvancePierre expects “to continue [to] honor replacement services and possible transfers to local commitments, upholding Barber company other locations, company officials say. Barber, who this winter stepped into his new job as company president, plans to stay on with the company. His sister Julie will remain in her sales manager role. Their older brother, Steve, is retired, and Kathy, their other sister, does not work for the company. While the name of the company will switch to AdvancePierre, Barber says the brand name on all its products will remain intact. Efrem Weldmichael, a human services coun - selor with Portland’s refugee services program, says his office will work with the state’s Department of Labor to help laid-off Barber Foods workers fill out unemployment forms. Since the layoffs have yet to happen, the state and city have no plan in place to help them, but will assist those willing to be retrained for new work, Weldmichael says. They might be encour - aged to apply for positions with other Portland employers with a history of hiring non-native English speakers, such as Nichols Portland or Paradigm Windows Solution. Weldmichael says Hannaford Bros. Co., a few local hotels and the Efrem Weldmichael, a human services counselor two hospitals are all potential employers as with Portland’s refugee services program, says well. But it is a hard time to lose work, he adds. his office will work with the state’s Department “Naturally they are upset,” Weldmichael says, of Labor to help laid-off Barber Foods workers of the Barber workers he has spoken to. fill out unemployment forms. “Because at this time there are no jobs in the country.” Weldmichael, who is from the African country of Eritrea, says he knows of two values and being a good corporate citizen Eritreans who have been employed at Barber whenever we conduct business.” Foods for 20 years. Barber says, “AdvancePierre has the same Though the company will change ownership, cultural aspects as we do. At one of their plants, Barber insists that the business’s values will the second most spoken language is Hmong.”

2 of 2 6/13/11 2:18 PM 8 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Keghetzi Tradition of Pagharch Comes Alive in Detroit

The present people of Kigi, mostly Kurds and By Betty Apigian Kessel Turks with Armenian mothers, call it “Feast of the Hittites. That’s what I had in Kutluja with my half Armenian cousins.” DETROIT — If I don’t follow through on a Kehetian continues, “the Hittite history is promise, it wears on me. A group of Kegetzis much like the history of Urartu, not known by chatting at the St. Sarkis Church bazaar last fall the general public, just historians and persons wanted to have a get together where we could with an outreach to their roots like good dine on pagharch also known as “Feast of the Keghetzis like you and me, Cousin Mitch.” Hittites,” the glorious ancient ancestors of we There you have the history part now for me Keghetzis. the present day Keghetzi. Into the large con - The last time I made it was as a surprise to tainer I poured the white and whole-wheat flour honor retired Macomb Daily News editor Mitch proportions totaling almost eight pounds and Kehetian at his book signing where he and I other ingredients, as taught to me by my non- gave talks about his successful book, Giants of Keghetzi mother. I guess she learned from my the Earth . Mitch has spent decades putting the dad’s Canadian cousins. I forgot to ask. Detroit community on the map with his fine reports about the Armenian Cause in the Pagharch Takes Work American and Armenian language newspapers. Preparing the dough is not for the faint of He has history and newspaper ink in his blood. heart. The steps are several: Coordinating ingre - I volunteered to tackle the difficult pagharch - dients, shagheling , baking, crumbing with a making duties, but no headway was being made fork while hot, warming the butter until it is for a venue and a date. The holidays came and nutty brown, warm, garlicky tahn . Practice Keghihetzies enjoying Betty Apigian Kessel’s Pagharch; seated, Betty Apigian Kessel and Mitch went without a plan in place and now it was May. made it perfecto! Kehetian; standing, Greg Vartanian and Mike Kajoian It was time to take action before it got too warm. It has to be kneaded for at least 20 vigorous Mitch is 100-percent Keghetzi and I was not minutes. I got assistance in kneading the stiff going to fail him. He has what is known as “The dough from my German husband, who in the Gardens of Keghi” where at home in Allen Park, throes of his duty asked me, “How many young Mich., he plants tomatoes and cucumbers start - Armenian men ran away to join the army in order to escape pagharch -making duties?” I chuckled and so did Mitch when I sent him that mes - sage. My recipe is authentic. Variations exist but do not look the same and have a hard shell. In the end I presented a large round bread-like delicacy soaked with hot melted butter and gar - licky tahn. Finger-licking good was never truer. Curiosity from on-lookers was plenty. Red, blue and orange plates and napkins for piling it on were ready. Taking a turn plunging the sherepp , pardon me, the large Tribute to Hittites; Table #1 Dines on Keghetzi Pagharch serving spoon, into the warm, succulent crumbs were Mitch and Rose Kehetian, Greg Vartanian, ed from seeds from Armenia. He calls his Cathy Harabedian, Michael sprouted seedling his “little Armenian soldiers.” Kajoian, Krista and mom-in-law Vergine Krista Tossounian who with husband Ara Tossounian, Bob and Betty Kessel, and a few heads up the twice-a-month kebab dinners at from outside our Keghi villages. It was big the Dearborn Armenian Community Center, enough for 12-15 people. Applause for the cook gave permission to have our Keghetzi gang take and photos of the inflated but sated group fol - part in a pagharch . The understanding was all lowed. Doggie bags went home with Mitch, of us would per usual purchase our dinners Mike, and for cousin Rose Vartanian. from her first, pagharch would come later. Word even got to Dr. Levon Saryan in Wisconsin who contributed this: Mitch Kehetian Proud Keghetsi “The full references are Matthew 26:17 and Kehetian is the historian who set me straight. Luke 22:1. The references are the same in the He said, “Some have mistakenly said pagharch classical Armenian Bible and in the 19th-centu - was shaped like Mt. Ararat ... not so ... it is Mt. ry Riggs modern translation. Both use the term Sulbuz. The following are Kehetian’s own words: “pagharchagerats ,” for feast of the unleavened “The link of the Hyes of Kigi (the way the bread. This tells us what term was being used Turks spell it) Province to the old Hittite circa the fifth century, AD.” Empire dates back to 1600 BC, when the Tradition is a wonderful thing. No one has Hittites, an Indo-European people, ruled central what we Keghetzis have, a special food tribute and southern Anatolia. Their empire lasted 500 to the Hittites. Thanks to intellectuals Mitch years, blended with the Hurrian and Mitanni Kehetian and Dr. Levon Saryan for contribut - tribes (who were off-shoots of the Urartu era.) ing to this column. I am a lucky girl. The Hittites survived severe winters by station - ing themselves in the mountain regions of cen - tral Anatolia (east of present day Ankara) with grain ... and pagharch . They made pagharch to look like their holy mountain, Mt. Sulbuz, seen from the entire Kighi region. They put the tahn on the top of the pagharch to resemble the snow-capped Mt. Sulbuz.” “When I was there in 1969, I had pagharch with my half-Turkish cousins,” offspring of Kehetian’s Aunt Parancim, about whom the search in Giants is written. “The old Keghetzi historians always told me about Mt. Sulbuz’s Hittite story at pagharch dinners at the old Zavarian hall in Delray.” Delray was an old section of Detroit where Armenians first settled and where they had a community center. “As for the Hittites, they were the first to use iron spears. Iron mineral is still abundant in Kigi region. You could even see the discol - oration of the western tributary of the Euphrates River. (The Kigi River) The Hittite Empire was battered by the Mameluks of Egypt. S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS

The Armenia Fest Committee of Longtime AGBU New England Metro Detroit is happy to announce... Member Aznavourian Feted

Armenia Fest 2011 WATERTOWN, Mass. — On Saturday, May 21, Next, Panian introduced the guest of honor the AGBU New England District honored long - and read a letter of recognition from the time member William Aznavourian for his more Knights of Vartan Grand Council Avak A community-wide event to bring than 45 years of service and dedication to the Sbarabed Dennis R. Papazian. metro-Detroit Armenians together to AGBU and the Armenian community. The evening continued with several speakers AGBU New England District Chairman Souren and friends including Jack Medzorian, Davidian showcase our rich Armenian heritage Maserejian welcomed guests with opening and George Murachian sharing a few words about remarks and invited the Very Rev. Dajad Davidian Aznavourian and the impact he has had on them to bless the meal. After dinner, AGBU Secretary personally as well as the Armenian community in Join us for dinner and Tina Panian invited Hasmik Konjoyan to present Rhode Island and right here in Massachusetts. a fun-filled evening with local vendors, Armenian food, dance and live music! Come rain or shine... large pavillion on site

Saturday, July 16, 2011 5 pm—10 pm Royal Oak Farmers Market William Aznavourian with the members of the AGBU New England District Committee 316 E. 11 Mile Road (just east of Main Street) a brief musical program. Konjoyan sang three Concluding the evening, the AGBU Director of Plenty of parking available Armenian songs, even leading the guests in Central Board Programs Anita Anserian read a Free singing Lari Tmbur La La and Nubari Boyuh letter of recognition from AGBU President Berj Open to the Public Chinar e . Following the musical program, guests Setrakian and presented Aznavourian with a life - enjoyed coffee and homemade desserts. time AGBU membership plaque. Bring your family and friends and don’t forget your lawn chairs! Proceeds to benefit Armenian Fund USA humanitarian projects

2011 Armenia Fest Committee Corinne Khederian, Co-Chair, Hagop Alexanian, Edward Bedikian, Ara Belian, Ray Boujoulian, Ken Khezarjian, St. Sahag and St. Mesrob Armenian Sports Scholarship Paul Kulhanjian, Vaughn Masropian, Shirley Sarkisian, David Terzibashian, Madeline Thomasian Committee Holds 42nd Annual Sports Banquet PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Saints Sahag and $138,500 in scholarships and this marks the Mesrob Armenian Church Sports Scholarship 31st year in presenting scholarships to deserv - Committee held their 42nd Annual Sports ing young Armenian students to aid in their Banquet on Friday evening, May 6. educational pursuits. This year the recipients of the Charles Recipients of the Charles Yaghoobian Jr. Yaghoobian Jr. Memorial Award to Rhode Scholarship Grants are: Samuel A. DeBlois, Island’s Outstanding Armenian Athletes of the Qunniapiac University; Dalita P. Getzoyan, Year: Jillian DeSimone, Lincoln High School for University of Rhode Island; John K. Kalajian, Soccer and Emily Papazian, LaSalle Academy University of Rhode Island; Melissa D. for Track and Cross Country. Megrdichian, University of Rhode Island; Special Recognition Award, Glen Lusine Ovanesyan, Rhode Island School of Nahabedian; Past Great Armenian Athlete, Design; Christina S. Parnagian, Assumption Anthony Chakoian. College; Christine S. Surabian, Villanova Guest speaker was Joseph Kayata, a sports - University; and Talene Taraksian, University of caster at Channel 10. Rhode Island. The outstanding performance in high school The Vaughn Avedisian Memorial Scholarship sports prize went to Krikor Bedrosian, went to Robert Nazarian, Susan Chakmakian Smithfield High School, soccer; Samuel and Talene Taraksian. DeBlois, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High This event is held in memory of First Lt. School, hockey; Jenna Derderian, LaSalle Charles Yaghoobian Jr., who was killed in Academy, soccer; Madison Bulgarian, St. October 1967, on the fourth day of his Vietnam Andrews School, basketball; Daniel Miner, East tour of duty. He was a graduate of the Greenwich High School, football; and Gregory University of Rhode Island and had a master’s Mouradjian, Moses Brown, swimming. degree from the University of Bridgeport. To date, the Sports Committee has awarded — Nathalie Yaghoobian

Sisters’ Academy 8th Grader Receives Scholarship

RADNOR, Penn. — The Armenian Sisters’ Devon Prep, I have every confidence that you Academy (ASA) encourages each child to do his will continue to foster the gifts God has given or her best and strive for personal excellence. you, thus allowing you to achieve your full poten - One such example is eighth-grade student tial as a scholar and a gentleman,” commented Michael Knudson (son of Dennis Knudson and Father Jim Shea, headmaster of Devon Prep. Kayane Janjigian), who was recently awarded Knudson has had a stellar academic record at the Rev. Stephen Bendik Quarter-Tuition schol - the ASA, achieving Academic Excellence each arship for each of the four high school years he year since the first grade, as well as performing will attend Devon Preparatory School. Devon in the 98-99th percentile on standardized tests Prep is an all-boys college preparatory high and the Devon Prep entrance exam. He credits school in the Main Line of suburban much of his study habits and respect for educa - Philadelphia. tion to the collaborative efforts between family Bendik was a Piarist priest who taught at and faculty at the ASA, as well as its small, Devon for nearly three decades. The Rev. interactive class sizes. “I’m honored to have Stephen Bendik Scholarship was established in received this scholarship,” he said, with delight. his memory by many of his former students and “It assured me that the Academy’s curriculum is granted on a merit basis to highly-qualified didn’t just prepare me for high school, but young men who attend Devon Prep. “Michael, enabled me to succeed among the top candi - you have demonstrated that you are an excep - dates in the area.” Knudson and his eight class - tional young man. As you begin your career at mates will graduate from the ASA on June 17. 10 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Ne w York M E T R O

the play deals with survival of individu - als and their historic values makes it a very human story and also one that ‘Night over feels particularly resonant to the strug - gles going on in the Middle East for ter - ritory, identity, power and righteous - ness.” Nichols related that after receiving Erzinga’ the award, which is a commission to write the play she proposed to them, she began her research. Her family members began to remember things that helped her create an anchor for the world of the story. She used part of the Comes to grant in 2009 to visit the Republic of Armenia, and said, “I saw the wishing trees all over Armenia, holding the wishes and prayers and dreams of the people who tied handkerchiefs to their New York branches or left an article of the people who had something to pray for.” This became an important symbolic element NEW YORK — “Night Over Erzinga,” a play by Adriana in her play. Sevahn Nichols, was presented at the Lark Play Development She had the opportunity to sponta - Center in midtown Manhattan on June 7-12. It was the first neously organize a drama workshop in play to be created through Middle East America: A National Armenia for the disadvantaged children New Plays Initiative, a program created in 2008 to support at the Orran Center. She said, “Eight to American playwrights of Middle Eastern descent through a 15 year olds in a room is already a good $10,000 commission. challenge, but an even bigger challenge “Night Over Erzinga” is an intergenerational story that tells was that I didn’t speak Armenian, and of the Armenian Genocide, its aftereffects and immigrant life they didn’t speak English. I asked one in America. The story is of my tour guides to translate and we given a different twist and had an incredible time. It was heart - By Aram Arkun parallel intergenerational breaking because at the end, one of the Mirror-Spectator Staff line through the Dominican little girls, as I was saying goodbye, husband of the American- asked ‘when are you coming back born daughter of the again?’ My heart broke because I could - Armenian Genocide survivors. Three and even four genera - n’t say when. …When my play is up and tions appear, sometimes simultaneously, on stage. running I want to go back to Armenia Ardavazt Khatchig Oghidanian fled Turkish persecution in for a longer time and do things like Erzinga prior to the Genocide, and industriously working in another workshop at Orran.” From left, acting coach Lucyn Djirdjirian-Jamgotchian, actress Mari Bijimenian, Nayda After the Republic of Armenia, America, began with various modest jobs, gradually improving Vosgeritchian and another supporter his situation. He married Alice Hajian, a Genocide survivor Adriana went with Armen Aroyan to from Shabin Karahisar, and had a daughter, Aghig. Alice was Western Armenia, in present-day Turkey, unable to shake off the horrors she witnessed, such as the rape to visit her ancestral villages. She saw and murder of her younger 8-year-old sister, Anoushig, by her grandfather Ardavazt when she was 8 years old ended her the bridge of Kemakh, off which the Erzinga Armenians were Ottoman soldiers, and the butchery of the rest of her family. main contact with her Armenian past. She grew up in New thrown in 1915. She exclaimed, “The land around Shabin Despite all of his efforts, Ardavazt was unable to overcome the York and Easter service at St. Vartan Cathedral and a few pic - Karahisar was so mystical and biblical that you couldn’t speak. psychological burdens placed on her, as well as his own trau - nics were the extent of her immediate family’s Armenian Nature was so powerful that it demanded your full attention. For ma caused by the disappearance of his family in Erzinga. He involvement. On the other hand, she was surrounded with me to have a chance to just quietly experience the beauty and harshly halted Alice’s efforts to explore dance as a means of Dominicans because there was a large community in New to know that that was where part of my family came from made self-expression. Alice descended into mental illness, and had to York. me very proud.” be institutionalized, with unfortunate results. Their daughter Nichols’ parents were performers — her mother danced and Adriana began a class in Los Angeles to learn Armenian, but Aghig had to be placed in foster homes and orphanages for her father sang — therefore she grew up surrounded by pas - this required much time so she decided to first finish the play some six years. sion for the arts. and then learn the language. She was fortunate to have Aghig as a young woman rejected her troubled Armenian She became a professional dancer, but an injury led her to learned Spanish fluently from her Dominican grandmother as identity, recasting herself as the American Ava, of French acting. She had no intention of becoming a writer, but she had a child. ancestry. Rebelling against the excessive protectiveness of her a life changing experience following 9/11, which a friend As the play took shape, Adriana was crossing beyond the father, Ava becomes a dancer, and chooses to marry a non- insisted that she write down. This led to her first play, Taking actual family story. She said she felt she needed to ask per - Armenian, Bienvenido, who, in a parallel with the Armenians, Flight, which she performed as a one- mission from her family members to have has come to the United States to escape persecution in the woman show. It went on to have seven the freedom to “theatricalize the truth, to Dominican Republic. productions, and won awards, launching make it come to life in such a way that Bienvenido has his name Americanized as Benny Ray, but her as a writer. people will sit in the dark and come on resists becoming too distant from his Dominican culture. He In 2004, she moved to Los Angeles. this journey with you…In writing this play, helps bring Ava back together with her father, but, unable to Living near Glendale, she had a lot of con - I had to make a ritual of this story. I need - remain faithful in his marriage, leaves Ava alone to raise their tact with Armenians, and little by little ed the blessing of my family to be able to daughter, Estrella. When Ava asked her father how he managed met Armenians in the arts. The take all of the ingredients and make some - to deal with his wife’s condition when Ava was a child, he final - Armenians kept on asking her when she thing new of it.” She initially “did not set ly revealed the cause of Alice’s mental distress. He had never would write something for them. She was out to tell a story of a genocide. I set out explained to Ava/Aghig the torments her mother experienced, invited as a performer and artist to an to tell the story of a family.” In this way, it or the story of his own family, thinking that he could shield his Armenian International Women’s connects with people of all kinds of dif - daughter from this burden of pain. Remembering the past Association conference in 2007, and there ferent ethnic backgrounds. helped all generations of the family deal with their lives. without conscious forethought she blurt - The play continues to evolve, as does The New York production of “Night Over Erzinga” was per - ed out that she would one day write a Adriana’s knowledge of the past. Each formed largely by a cast of non-Armenian background, with the play honoring her Armenian grandfather, reading or workshop allows her to tweak exception of the 11-year-old Mari H. Bijimenian, who played the Ardavazt Khatchig Oghidanian. various elements. There was an initial roles of young Aghig, Anoushig, Karine and Estrella. She is a The next year she applied for and won reading in spring 2009 in Chicago, even member of Hye Bar, and has performed with Antranig Dance the Middle East American Distinguished before the creation of a formal play, and Ensemble. All cast members performed multiple roles in this Playwright Award, which was developed the first workshop took place in “barebones” production, in which the minimal background and by the Lark Play Development Center Playwright Adriana Sevahn Nichols after November 2010 in San Francisco. The setting allowed for a focus on the story and text. with its partners, Golden Thread the June 7 performance of “Night Over casts change in the different productions, As a still-evolving work, perhaps it would not be fair to cri - Productions in San Francisco and the Erzinga” with the exception of the lead actress tique the play, but I can say that it has considerable depth. It Silk Road Theatre Project in Chicago. Juliette Tanner, playing Alice as well as tells its story powerfully and holds the interest of the audience. Lark Artistic Director John Clinton Eisner Jan. The plan is for the play to be devel - It tells a largely Armenian — and American — story which said that they defined the Middle East as widely as possible in oped by the Lark, and the two collaborating theaters in San becomes a universal one. There are a few sections that might order “to help support Americans in understanding more Francisco and Chicago to also produce it. Afterwards, Night need shortening or editing. The pronunciation of Armenian about the kinds of distinctions that exist between people in over Erzinga will be submitted to theaters nationally and inter - names unfamiliar to most of the actors (and audience) was at societies as different as Iraq, Syria, Israel, Afghanistan, Iran, nationally “to see what life the play has,” as Adriana puts it. times disconcerting to those who knew Armenian (e.g. Armenia and Turkey where many cultures, traditions and reli - She hopes that a Los Angeles production, where there are so Aghavni being repeatedly called “Agavni”), but on the other gions have lived side by side for ages.” They wanted to allow many Armenians, and where she made the initial promise to hand many actors did correctly speak various short phrases in artists who define themselves as diasporan voices the oppor - write the play, can take place eventually. Armenian, and one even recited the Lord’s prayer. Overall, the tunity to “represent” their ethnic and cultural communities Meanwhile, Adriana just found out where her Armenian actors of varied backgrounds convincingly portrayed their through good plays. When asked why Nichols’ “Night Over grandmother was buried in the US. Nobody had gone to her respective characters. Erzinga” was chosen as the first winner of this award, Eisner funeral except her grandfather. As Adriana continues to work Author Nichols explained for the Mirror-Spectator that the responded that “it was the sweeping scope of the story and its on the play, to have its world premiere this fall, she occasion - play was the result of her search for her identity. She has particular grappling with change and survival that captured ally takes breaks to work on a new play, a romantic comedy Armenian, Dominican and Basque ancestry, and the death of the committee’s imaginations.” Furthermore, “the fact that called “Running on Rollerskates.” S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 Ne w York M E T R O Real Estate CEO Robert S. Hekemian Honored with the Ellis Island Medal

NEW YORK — Real Estate CEO Robert S. numerous civic and community organizations as Hekemian was honored to be named a recipient well as domestic and international endeavors. He at the 25th Anniversary of the Ellis Island Medal is a director emeritus of the Bergen Community of Honor Ceremony held on Ellis Island on May College Foundation. He served on the Board of 7. He is chairman of the board and chief execu - Directors of the Northern New Jersey Council of tive officer of Hekemian & Co., Inc., a real estate the Boy Scouts of America and he is a member investment, management and brokerage compa - and Elder Emeritus of the Presbyterian Church, ny. Hekemian has been active in the real estate US. He received a bachelor’s of science in eco -

Robert S. Hekemian at the Ellis Island Award Ceremony

industry for close to 60 years. Hekemian & Co. nomics from the University of Vermont. owns and develops assets throughout the In 1990 he established the Robert and Mary Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United Jane Hekemian Foundation which, over the States. years, has contributed to many needy and impor - The anesthesia equipment is wheeled by volunteers. Hekemian is also chairman of the board and tant projects. Included among the benefactors of chief executive officer of First Real Estate this Foundation have been the New York Investment Trust of New Jersey (FREVS), a pub - Philharmonic, Hackensack University Medical licly-traded REIT. He has held this position since Center (where the Conference Center bears the Valley Hospital Donates Anesthesia 1991 and has been a member of the Board of family name), Bergen Community College, Boy Trustees since 1980. In addition, he serves on Scouts of America and the Young Men’s the Board of Directors of Pascack Community Christian Associations (YMCA) of Hackensack Equipment to AMAA Bank, the Board of Governors for Hackensack and Wyckoff. University Medical Center and as a director, part - Each year since 1986, NECO — whose mission RIDGEWOOD, N.J. — The Valley Hospital donated a Narkomed 2C Anesthesia Machine to ner and officer in numerous private real estate is to honor their diverse past, to advocate for pos - the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA), headquartered in Paramus. corporations and partnerships. He was formerly itive change in the present and to build strong The AMAA is shipping it to the Yerevan Medical Center in Yerevan. a member of the Board of Directors of Summit leaders for the Future — has honored the The Yerevan Medical Center partners with the AMAA to provide free medical care to the Bank until its merger with Fleet Bank. In addi - nation’s diverse past by sponsoring the Ellis destitute children served by the AMAA. The center, which does not receive financial sup - tion to his professional responsibilities, Island Medals of Honor. The Ellis Island Medals port from the government, focuses on providing quality medical services at reduced costs Hekemian has served his community through a of Honor annually pays tribute to the ancestry to the vulnerable population of Yerevan. variety of organizations. Hekemian contributes groups that comprise America’s unique cultural substantially and is meaningfully involved in mosaic. The medals are presented on Ellis Island, in a ceremony, to American citizens of diverse origins for their outstanding contributions to their communities, their nation and the world. Hekemian is now part of a prestigious group of honorees. Past Ellis Island Medal of Honor Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2011 recipients include six presidents of the United States, Nobel Prize winners, athletes, leaders of industry, artists and others whose work has made a lasting impact on humanity. They are Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor awarded annually to outstanding American citi - zens, from all walks of life, who have distin - a Teacher’ program has raised over $477,750 guished themselves through their significant contributions to this country. The Ellis Island and reached out to 3,700 teachers and Medal of Honor ranks among the nation’s most prestigious awards. The US Senate and House of school workers in Armenia and Karabagh. Representatives have officially recognized the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, and each year the recipients are listed in the Congressional Record. £ To date, more than 1,800 American citizens have received Ellis Island Medals of Honor. K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue Some previous medalists include: US helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have Supreme Court Chief Justice William the teacher’s name and address. Rehnquist; Generals Norman Schwarzkopf and K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ Colin Powell; Sen. John McCain; Sen. Ben ————————— Nighthorse Campbell; Mayor Rudolph Name Giuliani; US Attorney General Janet Reno; Address Emilio and Gloria Estefan; Lee Iacocca; Dr. City State Zip code Michael E. DeBakey; Secretary of Labor Elaine Tel: L. Chao; Rosa Parks; Elie Wiesel; Frank Sinatra; Bob Hope; Opera star Renee Fleming; Yogi Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 Berra; Muhammad Ali; Arnold Palmer; Tom Mail your check with this form to: Brokaw; Walter Cronkite; Barbara Walters; TCA Sponsor a Teacher Mike Wallace; Quincy Jones; Jane Seymour, 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 Siegfried and Roy, Gary Sinise, Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa, president of the United Your donation is Tax Deductible. Nations 61st Session General Assembly (International Recipient), to name a few. 12 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Ne w York M E T R O Registration Open for Summer St. Nersess Youth Conferences

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — St. Nersess make for a well-rounded and innovative experi - Armenian Seminary’s youth conferences have ence where young people make deep, lasting attracted thousands of teenagers and college- friendships and discover their place in the age students over the past five decades. This Armenian Church. summer, five conferences will be held on the A deacons’ training program, directed by New Rochelle campus. The two high school Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan, will kick off the conferences are open to students entering summer conferences on June 24 through July 2. grades 9-12 in September. High school session This program is tailored for young men who A, to be held July 6-14, will be directed by Rev. would like to learn to participate in the liturgi - Tavit Boyajian, while session B, from August 1- cal services of the Armenian Church as deacons 9, will be led by Rev. Hovnan Demerjian. Older and altar servers. students are invited to attend the post-high- Through personalized practical workshops school conference taking place August 11-18 and interactive classes, seminary faculty, and co-directed by Benjamin Rith-Najarian and priests, deacons and other specialists teach par - his wife, Danielle DerAssadourian. Those begin - ticipants the deacons’ chants of the Divine ning grades 7 or 8 in September are welcome Liturgy and other services, while they take the to attend the junior high school conference July mystery out of the rituals, the music, the sym - 26-30. This conference will be directed by Rev. bols, and the chants. Students who complete Stepanos Doudoukjian, who stepped down last the program return to their home churches year from organizing and directing the entire with polished liturgical skills, a deeper under - summer of conferences for the past 13 years standing of the church’s worship, stronger faith, and serving for three years as the seminary’s and lots of new friends. youth and vocations director. Beginners with little or no previous experi - During each session, clergy and lay church ence serving at the altar focus on the deacons’ leaders instruct the participants in the funda - chants and rituals of the Divine Liturgy, while Participants of a High School Conference gather to listen to Archbishop Khajag Barsamian. mentals of the Armenian Church’s faith and tra - this year advanced students will learn the ditions, and they encourage frank discussion hymns, chants and rituals of the sacraments of about issues important to young people. St. Baptism and Matrimony. esting and informative classes,” said Findikyan. ence is already filled to capacity, however, space Nersess makes daily worship, Bible Study and “I encourage all Armenian youth to partici - “I guarantee this will be a most memorable life is still available for all other session. To regis - Armenian language instruction appealing and pant in a St. Nersess conference where they will experience.” ter or for more information, email fun. In addition, sports, day-trips, home-cooked discover more about themselves, their faith and A maximum of 25 students will be accepted [email protected]. Applications may be found meals and indescribable St. Nersess traditions the church through open discussions and inter - for each conference. The High school B confer - online at www.stnersess.edu.

Mid Atlantic Interlodges-Knights of Vartan Holds 95th Anniversary Dinner Dance

NEW YORK — The 2011 Knights of Vartan Mid Atlantic Interlodge Awards Banquet was held here, at Holy Martyrs’ Kalustian Hall on Saturday, May 21, at 8 p.m. This was also the 95th Anniversary celebration of the Knights of Vartan. There was a big turnout from all of the area’s lodges and otyags. Dr. Dennis Papazian, Meline Ouzounian and the members were in attendance. The food and entertainment was magnificent, and everyone danced all night. Scholarships were given out to two students who have received exceptional marks and shown a great effort in student activities. They are Nirva Aydin and Eric Halejian. Each Tahlij and Otyag picked a member to receive the Man or Woman of the Year Awards. (Photo Credit: Asbed Armen Kileci)

Avak Sbarabed, Avak Dirouhi, MA GDR’s, members, Man or Woman of the Year Award winners; scholarship winners, two students

Anahit Otyag # 3 Jaklin Platyan Haigazian # 3 Simon Aydin

Scholarship winner Eric Halejian Scholarships winner Nirva Aydin

Arpi Candan, Meline Ouzounian, Dennis R. Papazian, Tivan Diran Cankulian, Tanya Bukucuyan, Pierre Aykaz and Dr. Edward Sanossian Echmiadzin # 20 John Kasarjian Bakradouny # 38 Paoul Kahaumjian S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 Arts & Living

Raymond Kevorkian’s AMAA Spring Genocide Study Is Concert Delights Launched in London Audience in NYC

By Nora Vosbigian NEW YORK — One of the most eagerly-antici - pated events sponsored by the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) each LONDON — Dr. Raymond Kevorkian’s year is the Spring Concert held at the Armenian study, The Armenian Genocide: A Complete Evangelical Church. Benefiting the AMAA’s sum - History , was the focus of a lecture at SOAS mer camps in Armenia and Karabagh, the con - (University of London) on June 6. cert was held on May 15 and featured a varied Kevorkian, who was present at the event, program of classical and Armenian music. was introduced by Ara Sarafian (Gomidas AMAA Board member Peter Kougasian, Esq. Institute). The lecture was organized by the gave the opening remarks. Lucy Janjigian, Armenian Studies program at SOAS and the board member and co-chair of the AMAA Gomidas Institute (London). Summer Camp and Christmas Committee, In his introductory remarks, Sarafian noted brought greetings. Levon Filian, executive that Kevorkian’s work presented a new stan - director of the AMAA, welcomed everyone and dard in Armenian Genocide research. This was thanked the Armenian Evangelical Church of because Kevorkian managed to combine a New York for hosting the event. variety of eyewitness accounts, more than any The young performers included Natalie Zabel other scholar, to corroborate a detailed narra - Aroyan, an Armenian-Australian soprano, who tive of the Armenian Genocide. He integrated was awarded first place in the Opera Armenian-language accounts — the voice of Foundation New York competition; violinist the victims — and re-engaged with an Nazig Tchakarian, an international soloist who Armenian intellectual tradition that had been made her Carnegie Hall debut in May 2008; vio - lost. This tradition, so vital in any discussion of list Aleksandr Nazaryan, a graduate of the the events of 1915, was the work of surviving Juilliard School of Music; cellist Benjamin Armenian intellectuals who, after WWI, Larsen, an international performer, and pianist reflected on the world around them and artic - Hayk Arsenyan, a native of Armenia who is cur - ulated a critical perspective on Armenian rently on the faculty of New York University’s issues. They were well versed in Ottoman and other languages and provided invaluable com - mentaries on the Armenian issue as it was dis - cussed in Ottoman newspapers and official records, such as the 1918-1919 trials of Young Hasmik Papian Turk leaders. Sarafian also pointed out that Kevorkian’s work had a cutting analytical element, which 2011 Armenian Night at the Pops started from the build-up to the Genocide, the actual genocidal process itself and the post- Genocide politics of Ottoman Turkey. At the Features Soprano Hasmik Papian, center of his work were a set of regional micro- histories which looked at what happened in World Premier by John Sarkissian Vocalist Natalie Aroyan and Pianist Hayk Arsenyan different regions of the Ottoman Empire. These detailed accounts allow readers to see BOSTON — The Friends of Armenian Culture Society (FACS) will present the 60th both the common genocide policies that were annual Armenian Night at the Pops on Saturday, June 25 at 8 p.m. at Symphony Tisch School of the Arts. pursued in 1915, as well as the differences Hall. The evening will feature renowned soprano Hasmik Papian. Music director The concert began with Dvorak’s Piano across the empire. For example, one could see Keith Lockhart will lead the Boston Pops orchestra in this gala celebration concert. Quartet Number 1 (Opus 23 in D Major) . The that most Armenians in the eastern provinces The program will feature a selection of operatic arias by Puccini, Catalani and piece proved to be a perfect vehicle to display were massacred. The pretence of a “deporta - Johann Strauss. In addition to the traditional Lord’s Prayer (Hayr Mer), a group of the precision and artistic nuance of the ensem - tion policy” was minimal. Armenian songs will also be performed, including Arno Babadjanian’s Aria-Vocalise ble. Next were two Chopin piano études: Opus Most of the deportees who actually arrived for soprano and orchestra to mark the 90th anniversary of the composer’s birth, 10, Number 6 , a meditative piece that has been in the so-called resettlement zones were from and the world premiere of a new song, Drinking Song , by composer John described as “full of stifled sorrow,” and Opus central and western parts of the Ottoman Sarkissian. Favorite arias will include O mio babbino caro from Puccini’s “Gianni 10, Number 5 , also called the Black Key Étude Empire. Kevorkian also divided the genocidal Schicchi;” Ebben, ne andro lontana from “La Wally” by Catalaini and Meine lippen because the right-hand part is played entirely killings into two distinct phases. The first was sie kuessen so heiss from Franz Lehar’s Operetta “Giuditta.” The concert will also on the black keys. Arsenyan executed both carried out in 1915, when most Armenians feature works by Suppé, Sousa, E. Bernstein and Newman. études with technical excellence and artistic were killed. Those who survived deportations Grammy Award-winner Ricky Skaggs and his Kentucky Thunder band will also soulfulness. Aroyan displayed her vocal gifts and reached resettlement zones remained in perform. with moving interpretations of pieces by camps until a second decision to destroy them see FACS, page 15 Massenet and Catalani. Arsenyan then dis - in 1916. Within three months, most of these played his gift of interpretation for contempo - surviving Armenians were also killed. rary music by performing the modern, poly - Kevorkian, in his presentation, elaborated phonic Suite for Piano by Alan Hovhaness. on various aspects of his book. He stressed In closing, Summer Camp and Christmas the organization of the process of genocide, Committee Co-chair Elbiz Baghdikian including the confiscation and re-distribu - expressed the mood perfectly by saying that the tion of Armenian properties, in an effort to concert, like the closing songs themselves, was co-opt different groups into the genocide pro - “about our faith and giving thanks, and about cess, and to create a new Turkish middle us not knowing about our world and about our class to replace that of Armenians. The over - need to love each other. This really spoke about arching ideological context of the killings why we are here today — reaching out to each was the creation of a Turkish state. Religion other as good Christians and as human beings.” (Islam) was also exploited in the organiza - tion of killings. Kevorkian’s presentation was followed by a lively question-and-answer period. Copies of his book were available for sale at conces - sionary prices. The Armenian Genocide: A Complete History , 1,200 pages, was originally pub - lished in French. The English translation was released by I.B. Tauris in March and is now available from Garod Books Ltd. RRP £45.00. To order a copy, write to From left, Natalie Aroyan, vocalist, Ben Larson, John Sarkissian [email protected]. Offer valid for cellist, Nazig Tchakarian, violinist, Hayk the European Union. Arsenyan, pianist and Aleksandr Nazaryan, vio - list 14 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Medical Thriller Explores Near-Death Experience, Boundary between Science and Religion

Tunnel Vision by Gary Braver. Forge. Tom signs are flat-lined. who has been bumping off people for a living. Doherty Associates. 2011. 384 pp. $25.99. Quickly, the central story gets underway. The Pace, who has recently had a heart attack, is ISBN 978-0-7683-0976-1. protagonist, 24-year-old Zack Kashian, a student beginning to worry about what may happen to at Northeastern University, is in a financial pick - him once he has dies as he has committed too le. A gambler, he has lost so much money at many heinous deeds. Raised a Catholic, he cards, he can’t pay his debts. On his way home decides to go to confession and asks a priest By Daphne Abeel from a meeting with friends, he slams whether he can be saved. To his vast Special to the Mirror-Spectator his bicycle into a pothole and blacks surprise, he is offered a path to out. Books redemption by a priest who hires him His mother, Maggie, a widow, has to kill “one of Satan’s doormen. Bodies galore litter Gary Braver’s (Goshgarian) already experienced double tragedies. Her older Someone who’s blasphemed against the Lord new novel — dead ones, live ones and some in son, Jack, was beaten to death in a bar brawl God Almighty.” It turns out that Pace’s targets between. And it’s the in-between sort that con - several years earlier, and her husband, Nick, are a series of scientists and medical stitute the driving theme of this medical thriller. after divorcing her and joining a Benedictine researchers, who are involved in exploring the In this book, Goshgarian, who has written a order, has also died of cardiac arrest. Whereas near-death experience. string of novels with scientific or medical Nick embraced religion, Maggie and Zack are Simultaneously, Zack is being touted in the themes, is exploring NDE, or, the near-death- both committed humanists and atheists. In any local press as “resurrected from the dead.” As a experience, and coincidentally the disputed terri - case, she rushes to his side. result, Dr. Elisabeth Luria, a professor at Harvard tory between science and religion. Although Zack is in a coma, he begins to bab - Medical School, whose husband and son were The novel, set in Boston, opens with a shock - ble in Aramaic, a language his religious killed in a car accident, has begun to do research er prologue. A man in his 50s is brought to Christian friend, Damian, identifies. As news of and experiments on the near-death experience, in Jordan Hospital, ostensibly in cardiac arrest. his strange mutterings spreads, he becomes the the hope that she may be able to get back in touch EMTs and medical staff at the hospital fail to focus of cultists who believe he is in touch Jesus with the deceased members of her family. Zack revive him. He is declared dead. And yet, a short and the afterlife. still needs money so when he is given a flyer adver - time later, he is seen leaving the hospital, mov - An important subplot of the story involves tising sleep studies for money, he signs on, and physicist, the author is able to infuse the novel ing under his own steam, although his vital Roman Pace, a serial killer, a chilling character finds himself in the hands of Dr. Luria. with a realism and factuality that commands Once Zack agrees to undergo the tests that the reader’s attention and keeps him reading. Luria devises, he finds himself drawn deeper There is a given audience for this book and deeper into the exploration for life on the amongst those interested in near-death experi - Research, Scientific Background Underlie other side. In the course of the experiments, he ences and the subject is very much alive in the forms a romantic relationship with Sarah, one current culture. There is even a Near Death Novelist’s Fictions of the researchers. Experience Research Foundation. Braver’s Another sub-theme of the book is Zack’s book should appeal to this group and those beyond (not quite literally) who enjoy a quick- may be wired to find God. Some people are truly search for the father who deserted them and moving thriller. spiritual — they have what might be called a ‘god’ who, supposedly, died in a monastery. By Daphne Abeel Braver (Goshgarian) will be available at two lobe — the parietal lobe in the brain. Carmelite While the novel explores a number of techni - presentations and book signings in the near nuns and Benedictine monks, when they have cal aspects of near-death experience, the book future: June 23, 6 p.m., at Stellina’s Restaurant, BOSTON — Gary Goshgarian has been teach - MRIs, the neurological patterns are identical does not come to a clear conclusion as to 47 Main St., Watertown, Mass.; and June 30, 7 ing literature at Northeastern University for many when they come out of the test.” whether there is truly life after death. But p.m. at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St., years and is the author of several novels, but it He said, “Traditionally, the spiritual members Braver brings an energetic brio to the twists Brookline, Mass. may be his technical and scientific background in society were the center of their tribe, the lead - and turns of the plot. Having been trained as a that provides the basis for the themes that inspire ers. They could project themselves into certain his fiction. states and convince others that they had been in Born in Hartford, Conn., Goshgarian attended touch with the other side.” Worcester Polytechnic Institute and received a He mentioned the monastic sects who live at degree in physics, doing Mt. Athos in Macedonian Greece. “Those who go Metropol-Residence further study at the there, and it’s only men who are allowed in, 2 MashtotsIdeal Ave. for Family Yerevan. vacations Armenia University of Connecticut induce a trance that they feel puts them in the Daily, weekly and monthly low rates, starting $65.00 per day/ residence and the University of presence of God.” The four star residences at the heart of Yerevan with a kithcen and private bathroom is an Wisconsin. In practice, it is against the law to flat-line a per - “Chemistry and metal - son. “If you did that, you could be charged with a ideal place to stay for families and couples. This luxurious residence is convenient for what- lurgy were sort of my beat, murder rap,” Goshgarian said. ever purpose your visit is. but I always enjoyed my Goshgarian pursued his research to hospitals English courses. I worked where he interviewed people who had been at Raytheon where we declared technically dead. made exotic weaponry Gary Goshgarian “Most interviewees say they have had ecstatic that killed people and that experiences,” he said. sort of turned me off.” As for his serial killer character in Tunnel He soon found his way to writing and teaching Vision , Goshgarian explains, “He was brought up and has been on the faculty of Northeastern a serious Catholic and he decides he wants to be University since the 1970s. saved. The priest who hires him to kill the scien - He took up the pseudonym Braver some years tists is an extreme Catholic, a literalist who back when he was finishing his novel, Elixir , believes no one should be trying to talk to the which was optioned by Hollywood for a film. spirits, because it means you are talking to “My previous book hadn’t sold that well, but Satan.” my publisher told me they were really going to Although Goshgarian’s main character, Zack, is promote this novel and print 10 times as many Armenian, there is no discussion of Armenian copies. They wanted me to change my name so issues as such in the book. that the big bookstores like Barnes and Noble “I didn’t want to get involved in that material. I would think I was a ‘new kid on the block.’ I went put in some material about Armenian culture, to my family tree and discovered that my grand - [such as] food in, but getting into questions like Reservations in English please call Sevag at 011-374-93211217 father was named Garabed, which means ‘braver,’ the Genocide would feel forced in this sort of Reservations in Armenian please call Onnig at 011-374-94435445 so that was it.” book,” he said. For this novel, Goshgarian did a lot of research. As for the title, Tunnel Vision , “It really refers “I interviewed neurophysicians. I needed to dis - to many of the characters, the serial killer, the cover a pseudo-scientific mechanism to separate researchers, the priests. They are all narrow mind - the mind from the brain. You can’t literally kill a ed in one way or another,” Goshgarian said. person and bring them back.” The father-son theme is important to him, he He also talked to people whom he terms “spir - said. “My parents were divorced and I really did - itual.” n’t know my father very well. So, there is an auto - “I asked them about their religious beliefs and biographical element in the novel. When Zack is whether they had ever sensed the presence of good. reunited with his father, this echoes something in I read up on the near-death experience. I certainly my own life, something I’ve wished for.” have never had one,” he said, “The nation is aging In the near future, Goshgarian will be involved and there are more people thinking about death. in promoting this book and is already 100 pages The terrorists, for example, actually look forward to into his next novel. He will also continue his aca - death. Extreme Christian sects renounce the world demic schedule at Northeastern, where he teach - and look forward to the afterlife. There are some es an undergraduate course in novel writing and who have had near-death experiences who think a course in science fiction and horror writing. they have glimpsed heaven.” “A couple of my students have got published,” He continued, “Research led me to think we he said, with some pride. S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING 2011 Armenian Night at the Pops to Feature Soprano Hasmik Papian, World Premier by John Sarkissian

FACS, from page 13 Papian graduated from the Komitas Soprano Brings Star Power to Pops Conservatory in Yerevan first as a violinist, then as a singer. After her debut at the Armenian pieces she was playing, as per the instruction of National Opera as Rosina in Rossini’s “Barber By Alin K. Gregorian her violin teacher. In addition, she diligently of Seville” and as Mimì in Puccini’s “La Mirror-Spectator Staff read about singing technique. Bohème,” Papian started an international “I won four international competitions and career, which has since taken her to the most after the first one, the son of the great tenor, prestigious operatic stages in the world: The VIENNA, Austria — Hasmik Papian, as the Mario Del Monaco, Giovanni, who was the head Vienna State Opera, La Scala of Milan, Bastille saying goes, has arrived. She is a darling of the of Opera Bonn, [in Germany] heard me sing. Opera in Paris and the Metropolitan Opera of European and American top opera houses, as Bonn, at that time, was the capital of Germany. New York, to name a few. She has sung with well as a veteran solo performer. In fact, she will If you sing well [ in a major city like that] it goes such notable conductors as Riccardo Muti, next perform in Boston at the Armenian Night around quickly,” Papian said. She got a con - Placido Domingo, Valery Gergiev and James at the Pops on June 25. In a recent interview tract and started singing there. Levine. from her home here, lyric soprano Papian That was back in 1993. She started looking Sarkissian was born in Iran into a family of spoke about her spectacular rise in the world of for opportunities at the end of her contract Armenian emigrants from Russia. He studied opera. there. composition and piano at Conservatorio Papian was born and raised in Yerevan, and She was soon booked for a debut recital at Giuseppe Nicolini in Piacenza, Italy, and later at almost did not become a singer; she was study - the Vienna State Opera. “I was there for UCLA and the New England Conservatory of ing the violin. “The decision [to become a sopra - rehearsals at 11 a.m. There was a big crowd at Boston, where he received his undergraduate no] came very late,” she explained. “I always the artists’ entrance. I thought there must have and graduate degrees, respectively. Among his knew I had a voice, but I never thought I would been an accident, but it was only spectators composition teachers have been Shaheen become a professional singer. My friends, for who had come to my rehearsals. They came to Farhat, Paul Reale, Ian Krouse, Russell whom I was singing popular songs at parties, wish me good luck. After my debut, I decided if Steinberg, John Heiss and John Corigliano. they said if I can touch so many people, why I could not live in Yerevan, this is the place I Sarkissian is the recipient of first prize at the should I not try to become a professional would love to live,” she recalled. 2010-11 International Garden Music singer?” While she called Yerevan her “beloved city,” Competition in Poland for his piece for soprano The instructors for whom she auditioned, Papian said that Vienna has, hands-down, the and chamber orchestra. clearly agreed. “I started with a jog” rather than “best audiences.” In fact, she said, the govern - Hasmik Papian as Norma For more information, contact Friends of small steps. “I was already a musician, so it was ment does much to promote opera, and the art Armenian Culture Society, Inc., P.O. Box 87, easy to sing. It was so natural.” form is so identified with the city that there are Belmont, MA 02478-0002 or Within three years, she was on the world planeloads of Japanese tourists who come for always find new colors. This music was written www.FACSBoston.org. stage. Her voice, she said, had already been the weekend to attend a single performance. 150 years ago, but it is still very contemporary.” Donations to FACS are tax deductible. honed by her frequent singing along to the She added, “I never left Armenia. I almost Papian combines a soaring international look at [my absence] as a business trip.” She career with a family. “I am blessed to be a moth - noted that she goes back every year and added er. It is the most important thing in my life. It is she plans to live in Armenia at the end of her a gift that God gave me. My career is wonderful, career. but for every woman it is important to be a As for her favorite stage, she said mother,” she said. Metropolitan Opera in New York City “is one of She is married to Konrad Kuhn, a dra - the best stages in the world.” maturge working for various European the - Papian, who specializes in singing bel canto , aters, and has one daughter. which includes the operas of Bellini, Donizetti Her husband’s profession of helping with and Verdi, among others, said her favorite role research and development of operas being is that of Norma, in the opera of the same name staged, Papian said, allows him to provide tremendous support for her. “Until [my daughter] went to school, we all traveled together. Now she’s 10 and in school and we can’t travel,” she added, noting that she is very grateful to have her mother live with them. “It is very difficult to be away for six or eight weeks and the distances have become great, like the US, Korea, Japan.” “She loves to talk to me on the phone. We speak about an hour every day, but she does not like to Skype,” she noted. Her daughter, inciden - tally, is taking piano lessons but no one in the family is pushing her into a musical career. Success on such a stratospheric level car - ries with it built-in restrictions and prescrip - tions for maintaining one’s voice. Papian explained that when she is in full rehearsal mode, she works about eight hours a day studying and rehearsing. The goal, she Hasmik Papian and fan, designer Karl Lagerfeld said, is to hone one’s instrument, in this case, the body, to such an by Bellini. “I have performed it the most in my extent that one’s moods and energy level do not career — 150 times, in 26 different produc - affect the performance. tions,” she noted. Papian’s upcoming schedule includes per - Papian said singing in an opera such as forming in “La Gioconda” by Amilcare “Norma” multiple times is exciting. “It’s the Ponchielli, which is “very rarely performed,” at music which every time sounds like new to me. the summer music festival in Split, Croatia, in Every production is different, the staging is dif - July. “It is a very good chance for our family to ferent, the set and partners are different. You be at the seaside, all together. I will have fun.” 16 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING TCA Pasadena-Glendale Presents Program on Levon Zaven Surmelian

PASADENA, Calif. — Tekeyan Cultural Surmelian escaped to Batumi, Georgia. In 1918, Khandjian presented a poetic recitation of Association’s Pasadena-Glendale Chapter orga - he moved to Istanbul, Turkey, which was under some of his most famous poems, leaving a nized an evening dedicated to the life and liter - the control of the Allied Nations, and studied lasting impression on the audience. ature of the Armenian-American author Levon rural economy at Armash. In 1920, he traveled Surmelian’s first book in English, titled I Ask Zaven Surmelian on Thursday, May 26, at the to Armenia with his classmates, to help improve You Ladies and Gentlemen , was published in Beshgeturian Center in Altadena. Armenian agriculture. Disappointed in the 1945 by E. P. Dutton. This autobiographical Zareh Sapszian, a fiction writer and contrib - Soviet regime, he fled back to Batumi, and then book became a best seller quickly. His second utor to Nor Or , was invited to deliver the lec - returned to Istanbul. book, titled 98.6 , was published in 1950. The ture. Sapszian was born in Aleppo, Syria. He Finally in 1922, Surmelian immigrated to title, 98.6 , refers to the temperature of the graduated from Karen Yeppe High School, and the United States and settled in Kansas. His human body and it tells the story of a young became a teacher of Armenian language and lit - first order of business was to study English, man suffering from tuberculosis. erature at the Armenian Evangelical High then further his studies in rural economy. Two In 1968, Surmelian published two more School in Ainjar, Lebanon. He then moved to years later, he became infected with tubercu - books, Apples of Immorality and Techniques the United States, due to the civil war in losis and traveled to Los Angeles, where he of Fiction Writing . The latter became a text - Lebanon and settled in Los Angeles. He is mar - spent four years in a sanitarium to recover book for literature in universities throughout ried and has one daughter. from his emaciating disease. He married the United States. Sapszian first presented a biographical Zarmig Geurdjian in 1957, but had no chil - It’s noteworthy to mention that Surmelian’s sketch of the late Surmelian, who was born in dren. His wife passed away in 1992 and only library and entire wealth was bequeathed to the Trabzon, Turkey in 1905. Surmelian’s father, two years later, he died. Armenian General Benevolent Union, which in Garabed, was a pharmacist and had three other Introducing Surmelian, Sapszian noted turn dedicated a state-of-the-art printing facility children. He lost his parents during the that first and foremost, he was a poet. His to honor him in Yerevan, to be used by the writ - Armenian Genocide. first book of poems, titled Joyous Light , was ers’ union. Zareh Sapszian and Sona Khandjian When Russia occupied Trabzon in 1916, published in 1924. At this point, Sona — Kevork Keushkerian

Sibil Pektorosoglu Has Dadoyan Explores Rich Armenian-Islamic History Hit with Song Based and at the same time fully conversant with the American University of Beirut and served as a On Shiraz Poem Book Review Islamic side to the equation. This is the kind of visiting professor of American studies at scholar one rarely comes across, but the fact Columbia University and the University of ISTANBUL (PanArmenian.net) — that it can exist is Chicago. She is a Turkish-Armenian singer Sibil Pektorosoglu In this first of a massive three-volume work, demonstrated by specialist in Islamic- is set to sing a poem by renowned Armenian Seta B. Dadoyan studies the Armenian experi - the pioneer work Armenian interac - The Armenians in the Medieval Islamic World, writer Hovhannes Shiraz, called “Letter,” ence in the medieval Islamic world and takes of Seta Dadoyan. tion from the sev - which has attracted thousands of Turkish the reader through hitherto undiscovered [This is] truly Paradigms of Interaction — Seventh to 14th enth to 14th cen - and Armenian fans alike. The song was the paradigmatic cases of interaction with other comprehensive Centuries. Volume One: The Arab Period in turies and has done result of collaboration between Armenian populations in the region. Being an Armenian, work — what one Armenia. Seventh to 11th Centuries. By Seta B. pivotal work on and Turkish artists. Dadoyan argues, means having an ethnic ances - may call a developing criteria Sibil, who is of Armenian origin, was try laden with narratives drawn from the vast summa …that Dadoyan. ISBN: 978-1-4128-4577-9. Cloth. 214 pp. for understanding born in Istanbul and lives there. historic Armenian habitat. brings into relief $39.95(s) Rights: World First publication the cultural, politi - The video for the song is aired regularly. Contradictory trends went into the making of hitherto unno - cal and philosophi - According to Hurriyet, this is the first Armenian history, yet most narratives fail to ticed aspects and cal penetration of Armenian music video to be broadcast on reflect this rich texture. Linking Armenian- unstudied issues, each group. She is a major station in Turkey. Islamic history is one way of dealing with the along with a panoramic view of the medieval the author of The Fatimid Armenians: In an interview with Ermenihaber.am problem. Dadoyan’s concern is also to outline Islamic world.” Cultural and Political Interaction in the news website, she said, “I started from St. revolutionary elements in the making of Dadoyan was formerly professor at the Middle East , as well as five other books and Vardanants choir. I remember Armenian Armenian ideologies and politics. This extensive songs and music were not readily available in work captures the multidimensional nature of the Armenian experience in the medieval Islamic world. The author holds that every piece of litera - ture, including historical writing, is an artifact. E-SUBSCRIPTION It is a composition of many elements arranged in certain forms: order, sequence, proportion, detail, intensity, etc. The author has composed and arranged the larger subjects and their sub- themes in such a way as to create an open, AVAILABLE dynamic continuity to Armenian history that is intellectually intriguing, aesthetically appealing Sibil Pektorosoglu and close to lived experiences. The Armenian Mirror-Spectator will be available every Kamal Salibi, emeritus professor at American Thursday, in COLOR and PDF format to all who subscribe Turkey, thus I entered the choir in order not University of Beirut, says, “For the story of the to starve for Armenian music. The choir has medieval Islamic world to be told in full, the specifically to this electronic delivery. had a great contribution in the development Armenian dimension to it needs to be fully The annual rate is $50. of my singing,” Pektorosoglu says. addressed by imaginative scholars having com - Last year the singer released an album plete command of the Armenian humanities, called “Sibil,” with some Armenian songs, To subscribe to this service, please fill out the following including Ter Voghormya, Cilicia and Namak (Letter). and mail it along with your check of $50 made out to the: “This album is the dream of my life. I’ve always dreamed of releasing an Armenian Armenian Mirror-Spectator, album. Thanks to my relatives, I managed to 755 Mt. Auburn Street, implement my dream.” To the question if she has any problems in Turkey because of Watertown, MA 02472 her Armenian origin, Pektorosoglu says, “I’ve not had any yet. When the video was produced, it was positively assessed. Many people say they listen to Armenian music.” H Yes, Please e-mail me the Armenian Mirror-Spectator Sibil says many listen to Letter , though they every Thursday. say they do not understand a single word. “When we were working on the video, the staff was singing that song. People My E-mail address is ______asked if the song was written in Latin let - ters in order for me to sing it.” Name and Last name ______Pektorosoglu visited Armenia in 2001; in her next visit, she plans to perform again for her Armenian fans. You can also e-mail your request to [email protected] Pektorosoglu’s album was arranged by for faster service Cenk Taskan, a prominent figure on the Entertainment Fridays Turkish pop music scene, for more than 40 and Saturdays years. Also an Istanbul-Armenian, Taskan’s real name is Majak Tosikyan. S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 ARTS & LIVING Hye Stars Shine in Providence

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Cultural Badalyan’s excellence with their continued Committee of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob Church of thunderous applause. Providence is well known for presenting many Norigian graduated with a graduate degree interesting and informative programs through in piano performance from the Cleveland the years. Institute of Music. He has won numerous com - On May 28, the Cultural Committee, under petitions in Rhode Island, including first prize the direction of conductor Konstantin in the College Division piano competition in Petrossian, presented an evening titled “Hye 2002 and 2004. He also won the University of Stars of the Night.” Rhode Island (URI) Concerto Competition, sub - Featured on the program were: Nuneh sequently performing the Mendelssohn Badalyan, soprano, John Paul Norigian, piano Concerto No. 1 with the URI Symphony and Timothy Aznavourian, guitar and vocalist. Orchestra in March 2002. Most recently, he was These three performers were so fantastic that a semifinalist with his trio, the Milhaud Trio, in they each prompted the audience to give stand - the 2008 Plowman Competition in Columbia, Mo. Norigian is also a piano teacher at the Rhode Island Philharmonic Music School. Norigian endeared the audience with his pro - fessionalism and style of playing music by Liszt and Babajanian. Aznavourian is a guitarist and vocalist, spe - cializing in classical and folk music. He began learning to play guitar at the age of 12 by teach - ing himself. At the age of 17 he began to take formal lessons with Zachary Fenner and further

Nuneh Badalyan ing ovations again and again. Badalyan, a native of Armenia, received her education at the Komitas State Conservatory. She has performed as guest soloist with the Armenian Philharmonic and with the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia. An enthusias - tic and active soloist and chamber musician, she has appeared in London, Canterbury Festival, JAMAICA PLAIN, Mass. — Janet Khalarian was the guest soloist at the Los Angeles, San Francisco, Fresno, Geneva, John Paul Norigian recent Mother of the Year Luncheon honoring Naomi Armen, held on Athens, Saloniki, Cyprus, Lebanon, United Arab May 7 at the Armenian Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Emirates and at the Tbilisi Opera in Georgia. Yerevan, Armenia, Khalarian attended the Armen Tikranian Musical She has also given recitals in Hamburg, New advanced his music education at Rhode Island School, focusing on the viola. She continued her musical training at the York, Boston, Washington and San Diego. The College studying classical guitar. His singing of audience showed their appreciation of Romanos Melikian College of Music. While there, and motivated by her and guitar arrangements of works by classical love of singing, Khalarian joined the Yerdasartagan Chorus, conducted Armenian composers had the audience tapping by Setrak Der Ghazarian, and was a member of that ensemble when it and clapping along. earned a second-place finish at the International Chorus Festival. Ella Melik Husian, who was the piano accom - After completing her studies, Khalarian immigrated to the United panist for Badalyan, graduated from the Komitas Five Armenians Pre- State Conservatory Piano Department. She has States with her family and currently resides in the Boston area. Her worked at the State Choir of Armenia as con - singing is influenced largely by the Armenian troubadour, Sayat Nova. Selected to Compete certmaster. She has worked with the Little She released her debut CD in October 2004, and in May 2005, she was Singers of Armenia Chorus with conductor nominated for the “Best Pop Retro Album” at the seventh Armenian At 2011 Tchaikovsky Tigran Hekekian. Husian has traveled to Music Awards. Her next performance will be on September 18, at the Switzerland, Greece, Cypress, Germany, 11th Annual Greater Worcester Armenian Choir, where she will be the Competition United Kingdom, France, Lebanon, Russia and guest soloist. the US. She has also accompanied talented chil - dren’s concerts in London. By Ara Arakelian –Irene Eranosian

BOSTON — The 14th International Tchaikovsky Competition, one of the coveted international competitions, which has launched the careers of many prominent musicians, including that of the legendary American pianist Van Cliburn, is currently underway in CC AA LLEENNDDAARR Russia. The newly-revamped competition is now under the artistic directorship of the famed Russian conductor, Valery Gergiev, who has assembled a formidable jury of artists of inter - national stature. Known as “The Tchaikovsky,” the competi - NEW YORK tion began June 15 and will run through June 30 and includes four disciplines: piano, violin, cello and voice. It is held in two different cities On June 19, St. in Russia: the piano and cello categories are Nersess Armenian held in Moscow, while the violin and the voice Seminary will hold categories are conducted in St. Petersburg. its annual Father’s There are five musicians of Armenian descent Day Picnic, from participating in all four categories. In the piano noon to 5 p.m., at category, Mamikon Nakhapetov of Georgia is Stratton Road, one of the 30 pre-selected competitors. In the New Rochelle, NY, violin category, Hrachya Avanesyan of Armenia is one of the 27 contestants. Cellist Narek featuring kebob Hakhnazaryan, of Armenia, an artist diploma meals, live recipient at the New England Conservatory Armenian music who recently performed with the Boston Pops, and children’s is among the favorites in the pool of 25 con - activities. For more tenders for the top prize in the cello category. info, visit Finally, Miran Agadjanyan and Gevorg www.stnersess.ed Grigoryan of Russia will showcase their prowess in the voice category. u or call (914) 636- Some of the sessions as well as rehearsals will 2003. be streamed live at the competition’s website, www.Tchaikovsky-Competition.com. 18 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- Positioning for the Kazan Summit

more refinement and further deliberation, which are being conduct - Spectator ed on the Foreign Ministry level. We do hope that in Kazan the par - By Edmond Y. Azadian ties will demonstrate some constructive approach.” Even Turkey’s Foreign Minister Davutoglu has expressed a glim - Expectations as well as doubts abound regarding the forthcoming mer of hope. summit in the Russian city of Kazan, which will bring together the The basic principles are composed of six steps, while those steps Established 1932 presidents of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia June 25-26. begin with the evacuation of “occupied territories” for Azerbaijan’s The same presidents have walked the same road in the past, rais - Foreign Minister Mamedyarov and the expression of the will of the An ADL Publication ing hopes for a breakthrough, but disappointment has followed each people (referendum) about the Karabagh status, Kasprschik indi - and every meeting. After issuing declarations and verbal commit - cates that the interim status of Karabagh cannot be less than what ments, the Azeri leaders have raised the ante upon returning home. the region enjoys at the present time, but what is crucial is that EDITOR Most significant violations happened especially right after the Azerbaijan will have to acquiesce to that status which eventually win Alin K. Gregorian Meindorf declarations where the parties had agreed to refrain from international recognition. military solutions and concentrate on the negotiations. But the ink One of the sticking points among the six principles is the compo - ASSOCIATE EDITOR Aram Arkun was not yet dried on that declaration, when Azerbaijan’s President sition of the peacekeeping forces in the interim period while agree - Ilham Aliyev provoked a border skirmish, claiming many victims. ments begin to be implemented on the ground. It is believed that the ART DIRECTOR Based on this kind of checkered background, neither the pundits Minsk Group negotiating parties will come up with that peacekeep - Marc Mgrditchian nor the negotiating parties seem hopeful for a positive outcome. ing force. PRODUCTION Although the Kazan summit is ostensibly called to negotiate on the So much criticism was directed at the Minsk Group negotiations Dilani Yogaratnam basic principles worked out by the co-presidents of the OSCE Minsk that the pressure is mounting on the opposing parties to move for - Group, symbolism still matters if a positive outcome will be ascribed ward. to Russia whose president, Dmitry Medvedev, will be mediating Russia’s Foreign Ministry has, in a way, verbalized that pressure between President Serge Sargisian and Aliyev. Certainly the other through its official representative, Alexander Loukashevich. He has CONTRIBUTORS: parties do not wish to lose the limelight. The summit has already stated: “There is great hope that the Deauville declaration by the Elizabeth Aprahamian, Daphne Abeel, Dr. claimed one casualty, which was Iran’s president’s visit to Armenia; three presidents will help the sides to realize that the process for a Haroutiune Arzoumanian, Edmond it was supposed to take place on the eve of Kazan summit, but was peaceful settlement has reached a limit after which they have to Azadian, Prof. Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, mysteriously postponed indefinitely. Although the Armenian gov - come to an agreement to implement them. Any delay beyond that Kevork Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian- ernment presented the lame excuse that the documents were not point will indicate a destructive intention.” Placido , H arut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, ready to be signed, another possibility which may not be ruled out The French co-president of the Minsk Group, Bernard Fazier, has Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian, is that should there be any tangible results at the summit, Iran similarly expressed hope for action by stating: “We are hopeful that Taleen Babayan should not share any credit. the presidents will give their approval at the Kazan summit to the The Armenian side is skeptical of the outcome of the summit. The final draft of the documents presented to them. We refer to the doc - Azeri side is even vocally pessimistic and already gloomy predictions uments which were delivered to them in March in Sochi.” CORRESPONDENTS: have been issued by high government officials. While pressure is mounting form all sides and hopeful signs are in Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Armenia’s Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian has announced the air, Azerbaijan’s leaders continue their war threats or negative Boston - Nancy Kalajian Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian that Yerevan has positively responded to the basic principles worked statements. Thus the Azeri president has visited Serbia and although out by the OSCE group and has challenged Baku to do the same. Baku does not recognize Kosovo’s independence but Mr. Aliyev has Contributing Photographers: On the Armenian front, the negative voices are heard mostly from seized the opportunity to reiterate his eternal refrain: “Serbia, like Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair Hovsepian the Karabagh leaders. Azerbaijan, is suffering from separatism. We hope that your territo - Recently, Ashod Ghoulian, the speaker of the Karabagh parlia - rial integrity will one day be realized.” The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published ment, and Georgy Petrossyan, the foreign minister, addressed a press Two other contradictory statements from Azeri officials indicate weekly, except two weeks in July, by: conference. that Baku is in the process of using carrot and stick policy, hoping Baikar Association, Inc. Ghoulian’s prediction is: “No serious breakthrough is anticipated that one of them will work. at Kazan, because preconditions for that breakthrough are non-exis - Thus the spokesman for Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry, Elbar 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 tent. But a preliminary declaration is possible because the co-presi - Sabiroglu, has announced, “The Armenian side, through its actions Telephone: 617-924-4420 dents of OSCE and the mediators are hard at work to bring some is contributing to the possibility of a military solution to the FAX: 617-924-2887 results.” But Karabagh leaders also add that any agreement at the Karabagh conflict. Azerbaijan will be liberating its occupied territo - www.mir rorspectator.com summit cannot be considered as final, if the Karabagh government ries from the enemy. We are in the process of getting ready for war.” E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com does not give its stamp of approval. Any government, prepared to sign a peace agreement, would pre - For advertising: [email protected] The Russian side is cautiously optimistic, while the spokesman for pare its population for that situation. These announcements are far New York/New Jersey Office the Minsk Group Anjei Kasprschik has even divulged some details from preparing Azeri people for a peaceful solution. 560 Sylvan Ave. , Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 about the basic principles. On the other hand, the deputy foreign minister of Azerbaijan has (201) 800-1164 The US government has also sounded a positive note. Indeed in made an contradictory statement, perhaps intentionally, for public her farewell message, the outgoing US ambassador, Marie consumption as a carrot policy, saying: “We are not interested to Yovanovitch, has expressed her regret that she is leaving Yerevan at renew the war. We still believe that there is possibility to resolve the SUBSCRIPTION RATES : a “critical” and “historic” moment, indicating that an impending problem through diplomatic means. Why should we think about U.S.A. 2nd Class $75 a year solution is about to happen to the most intractable problem in the war?” 1st Class $120 a year region. In this chaotic atmosphere where contradictory statements and Canada The Russian president of the Minsk Group, Igor Popov, has speci - political pressures are in action, any positive step at the Kazan sum - Air Mail $125 a year fied that “the documents which will be discussed at the summit need mit will constitute a miracle and hailed by all parties. All Other Countries Air Mail $190 a year Display advertising r at e: $7 per column inch LETTERS

© 2010 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA An Open Letter to Hirair Hovnanian and additional mailing offices. ISSN 0004-234X (Editor’s note: Two weeks ago, Hirair Center has become a focal point of artistic and port for the exclusive use of these properties Hovnanian, chairman of the Armenian cultural life, a visitation destination for foreign for genocide museum and memorial purposes. POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, Assembly of America (AAA), addressed an dignitaries and a preferred location for official Before, during and subsequent to the trial, CFF Watertown, MA 02471-0302 open letter to Gerard L. Cafesjian, chairman of meetings and receptions. Hopefully you will be has repeatedly committed to joining in a pan- the Cafesjian Family Foundation [CFF]. Ross more supportive of CCA’s Phase II plans to sig - Armenian effort to fulfill the dream of the first ever Vartian, board member of the CFF, writes in nificantly expand space for collections of other museum and memorial in the Diaspora about the response. This letter was originally published patrons and more broadly for even greater fact and ongoing consequences of the Armenian on June 2.) opportunities for artistic and cultural expres - Genocide. CFF remains convinced that our com - Copying for other than personal use or sion, appreciation and education. The Cascade munity will respond generously as soon as it is internal reference is prohibited without Hirair: project will never be complete as it will always given an opportunity to do so. express permission of the copyright In the interest of moving forward with the be evolving and growing, and the Cafesjian Hirair, you can make an immediate and sig - owner. Address requests for reprints or project, the Cafesjian Family Foundation (CFF) Family Foundation will continue support for nificant contribution to making this project a back issues to: will not respond point by point to your serial CCA as one of its core missions. reality. Accept that a federal judge has soundly Baikar Association, Inc. misstatements of fact. Anyone interested in an Your refusal to acknowledge Gerry’s crucial rejected the legal case you authorized and end 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 independent and objective judicial assessment role in securing the site of the future museum your appeal. Whether or not you terminate of the truth of the past decade should review and memorial to the Armenian Genocide is your fruitless appeal, CFF will fulfill its obliga - the 190-page initial verdict of January 26 and inexplicable. You know that Gerry provided tion to the community by inviting all to par - the 57-page final verdict of May 9 by Judge 100 percent of the financing and 50 percent of ticipate. It is, after all, our community that will Check us out at Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. the funds to acquire the bank building, fol - render the final verdict. With regard to your disparaging phase one lowed by 100 percent of the funds to acquire mirrorspectator.com of the Yerevan Cafesjian Center for the Arts the adjacent properties. The record clearly — Ross Vartian (CCA), you are presumably unaware that the shows that Gerry has never wavered in his sup - Member of the Board, Cafesjian Family S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY

Congress year after year. Regrettably, successive US admin - port the genocide resolution. Meanwhile, the Armenian- istrations also share the blame in this sordid affair by aid - American community would keep the issue alive and ready ing and abetting the Turkish denialists, and playing uneth - to be triggered at the opportune moment, causing the ical word games with the extermination of 1.5 million inno - Turkish side to spend millions of dollars in on-going lobby - cent men, women and children. ing efforts. My Turn The psychological advantage of passing such a resolution Such an opportunity may come later this month with a is the satisfaction received by descendants of Genocide vic - possible bloody confrontation between the second Turkish By Harut Sassounian tims when their loss and pain are acknowledged by the leg - “humanitarian” flotilla and Israel’s Navy, which could trig - islature of the world’s greatest democracy. ger the ire of US and Israeli leaders, compelling them to The political raucous, whenever an Armenian Genocide put the pending Genocide resolutions to a vote in their Why Pass an Armenian Genocide resolution is introduced in Congress, is due to the Turkish respective legislatures. While Armenians would resent see - Resolution for the Third Time? government’s scandalous behavior. Dozens of commemora - ing the Genocide issue used as a political football, they may tive resolutions on a variety of issues are adopted by the US not have much of a choice, since they have been just as A new Armenian Genocide resolution is being intro - Congress each year, yet not a single one makes the news. offended when the resolution was not being adopted for all duced in the House of Representatives this week. Because Turkish leaders create such mayhem by making the wrong reasons. The first question is why Congress is being asked to pass a threats against the United States, dispatching high-level del - Going beyond the Genocide issue, Armenian-Americans Genocide resolution for the third time? As is well known, the egations to Washington, hiring powerful lobbying firms and may introduce several other resolutions in Congress this House of Representatives twice adopted resolutions acknowl - spending valuable political capital, they end up making mil - year involving Armenian-Turkish relations: edging the Armenian Genocide, in 1975 and 1984. What lions of people aware of the facts of the Armenian Genocide. • Urging Turkey to return the expropriated Armenian would Armenians gain by adopting the resolution for the third While the Turkish intent is to cover up the mass murder of churches to the Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul, allow - time? And if it passes this year, would another attempt be Armenians almost a century ago, their berserk reaction inad - ing them to function as churches, not museums, mosques, made to pass it again for the fourth time next year? vertently succeeds in publicizing to the whole world the das - or touristic sites; Some may be under the mistaken impression that such tardly crimes committed by their forefathers. • Honoring the distinguished jurist Raphael Lemkin who resolutions would help Armenians obtain restitution from Hopefully, the Turkish government would once again coined the term “genocide,” influenced by the mass mur - Turkey for their confiscated lands and stolen possessions. resort to its normal bullying tactics, thereby attracting the der of Armenians in 1915; This is simply not true. Commemorative resolutions attention of the international community to the Armenian • Advocating the lifting of the blockade of Armenia express “the sense” of Congress and do not have the force Genocide issue. The newly-introduced resolution can only imposed by Turkey and Azerbaijan; and of law. Furthermore, if these resolutions had any real ben - benefit from such Turkish-generated publicity, since the • Supporting the protection of human rights of all minori - efits, Armenians would have taken advantage of them dur - Republican-dominated House is not likely to act on it any - ties in Turkey (Alevis, Armenians, Assyrians, Greeks, Jews ing the decades since their adoption! time soon, not that the more sympathetic Democrats had and Kurds). On the positive side, the passage of these resolutions a greater degree of enthusiasm to bring it to a vote late last With the upcoming congressional and presidential elec - have ethical, psychological and political dimensions. year, when they were in power! tions, and unexpected developments in the Eastern Morality dictates that the mass murder of an entire nation Certainly, Turkish officials could be even more helpful Mediterranean, we may be facing a hectic and chaotic polit - not be forgotten or ignored. Yet, it is the Turkish govern - should they create unexpected crises with the United ical season. It is critical for Armenian-Americans and their ment’s continued denial of the Armenian Genocide that States, thus forcing the hand of both the Democratic supporters to remain well informed, active and committed compels Armenians to present such resolutions to administration and Republican House leadership to sup - to the pursuit of Armenian interests. ‘The Science of Evil,’ Explaining ‘Evil’ and Human Cruelty

that the scientists doing the immersion experi - A Lucky Child. The empathy within the friend - objects. In this book I explore how people can By Simon Baron-Cohen ments wanted to contribute to medical knowl - ship comes through so powerfully in this awful treat each other cruelly not with reference to edge, to know, for example, how to help victims situation, as does the extreme lack of empathy the concept of evil, but with reference to the rescued after being shipwrecked in icy seas. of the guard. If the aim was to punish or to set concept of empathy. Unlike the concept of evil, When I was 7 years old, my father told me the Even the Nazi doctors who had sewn poor an example, the guard could have just shot the empathy has explanatory power. In the coming Nazis had turned Jews into lampshades. Just Goldblatt’s hands back to front may not (I escapee himself. Presumably, the guard chose chapters I put empathy under the microscope. one of those comments that you hear once, and assume) have been motivated to do cruel things this particular form of punishment because he The challenge is to explain, without resorting the thought never goes away. To a child’s mind for cruelty’s sake: They, too, were presumably wanted the two friends to suffer. to the all-too-easy concept of evil, how people (even to an adult’s) these two types of things following their scientific impulse, wanting to Today, almost half a century after my father’s are capable of causing extreme hurt to one just don’t belong together. He also told me the understand how to test the limits of microsur - revelations to me about the extremes of human another. So let’s substitute the term “evil” with Nazis turned Jews into bars of soap. It sounds gical procedures. behavior, my mind is still exercised by the same, the term “empathy erosion.” Empathy erosion so unbelievable, yet it is actually true. I knew What these scientists lost sight of, in their single question: How can we understand can arise because of corrosive emotions, such our family was Jewish, so this image of turning quest for knowledge, was the humanity of their human cruelty? What greater reason for writing as bitter resentment, or desire for revenge, or people into objects felt a bit close to home. “subjects.” It is an irony that the human sci - a book than the persistence of a single question blind hatred, or a desire to protect. In theory My father also told me about one of his for - ences describe their object of study as “sub - that can gnaw away at one’s mind all of one’s these are transient emotions, the empathy ero - mer girlfriends, Ruth Goldblatt, whose mother jects” because this implies sensitivity to the feel - conscious life? sion reversible. But empathy erosion can be the had survived a concentration camp. He had ings of the person being studied. In practice, What other question could take root in such result of more permanent psychological charac - been introduced to the mother and was the feelings of the subjects in these experi - an unshakeable way? I presume the reason I teristics. shocked to discover that her hands were ments were of no concern. Nazi laws defined find myself returning to this question again and The insight that empathy erosion arises from reversed. Nazi scientists had severed Goldblatt’s Jews as genetically subhuman and ordered their again is because the question of how human people turning other people into objects goes hands, switched them around, and sewn them extermination as part of the eugenics program beings ignore humanity of others begs an back at least to Martin Buber, an Austrian on again so that if she put her hands out palms of the time. answer—yet answers are not forthcoming. Or at philosopher who resigned his professorship at down, her thumbs were on the outside and her Within this political framework, “using” the least, those answers that are available are in the University of Frankfurt in 1933 when Adolf little fingers were on the inside. Just one of the inmates of concentration camps as “subjects” in some way unsatisfying. If the answers were suf - Hitler came to power. The title of Buber’s many “experiments” they had conducted. I real - medical research might even have seemed to ficient, the question would feel as if it had been famous book is Ich und Du (I and Thou). He ized there was a paradox at the heart of human these doctors to be ethical if it contributed answered and the matter settled. There would contrasted the Ich-Du (I-you) mode of being nature —people could objectify others — that my knowledge for the greater good. be no need to restlessly and repeatedly return (where you are connecting with another person young mind was not yet ready to figure out. Cruelty for its own sake was a part of ordi - to it. Clearly, better answers are still needed. as an end in itself) with the Ich-Es (I-it) mode of Years later I was teaching at St Mary’s nary Nazi guards’ behavior. The standard explanation is that the being (where you are connecting with a person Hospital Medical School in London. I sat in on Sadly, there is no shortage of horrific exam - Holocaust (sadly, as we shall see, echoed in or object, so as to use them for some purpose). a lecture on physiology. The professor was ples, but I have selected just one from the biog - many cultures historically across the globe) is He argued that the latter mode of treating a teaching about human adaptation to tempera - raphy of Thomas Buergenthal. At just 9, an example of the “evil” that humans are capa - person was devaluing. ture. He told the students that the best data Thomas was rounded up with thousands of ble of inflicting on one another. Evil is treated When our empathy is switched off, we are available on human adaptation to extreme cold Jews and taken to Auschwitz. There he had to as incomprehensible, a topic that cannot be solely in the “I” mode. In such a state we relate had been collected by Nazi scientists perform - watch while an inmate was forced to hang his dealt with because the scale of the horror is so only to things or to people as if they were just ing “immersion experiments” on Jews and friend who had tried to escape. An SS guard great that nothing can convey its enormity. The things. Most of us are capable of doing this other inmates of Dachau concentration camp, ordered the inmate to put a noose around his standard view turns out to be widely held, and occasionally. We might be quite capable of whom they put into vats of freezing water (see friend’s neck. The man couldn’t fulfill the order indeed the concept of evil is routinely used as focusing on our work without sparing a Figure 1). They collected systematic data on because his hands were shaking so much with an explanation for such awful behaviors: thought for the homeless person on the street how heart rate correlated with duration of time fear and distress. His friend turned to him, took Why did the murderer kill an innocent child? outside our office. But whether we are in this in the water at zero degrees centigrade. the noose, and, in a remarkable act, kissed his Because he was evil. Why did this terrorist state transiently or permanently, there is Hearing about this unethical research retrig - friend’s hand and then put the noose around become a suicide bomber? Because she was no “thou” visible — at least, not a thou with gered that same question in my mind: How can his own neck. evil. But when we hold up the concept of evil to different thoughts and feelings. Treating other humans treat other people as objects? How do Angrily, the SS guard kicked the chair away examine it, it is no explanation at all. For a sci - people as if they were just objects is one of the humans come to switch off their natural feel - from under the man to be hanged. entist this is, of course, wholly inadequate. worst things you can do to another human ings of sympathy for another human being who Thomas and the other inmates, watching the What the Nazis (and others like them) did was being, to ignore their subjectivity, their is suffering? man kissing his friend’s hand, rejoiced at that unimaginably terrible. But that doesn’t mean thoughts and feelings. These examples are particularly shocking simple act that said (without words) “I will not we should simply shut down the inquiry into When people are solely focused on the pur - because they involve educated doctors and sci - let my friend be forced to kill me.” Thomas sur - how people are capable of behaving in such suit of their own interests, they have all the entists (professions we are brought up to trust) vived Auschwitz (perhaps because his father ways or use a nonexplanation, such as saying potential to be unempathic. At best in this state, performing unethical experiments or opera - taught him to stand close to the shed when Dr. people are simply evil. they are in a world of their own and their behav - tions. Let’s assume (generously) that these doc - Mengele was making his selection of who As a scientist I want to understand what caus - ior will have little negative impact on others. tors were not being cruel for the sake of it — would die) and described this story in his book, es people to treat others as if they were mere see EVIL, pag 20 20 S ATURDAY , J UNE 18, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ‘The Science of Evil,’ Explaining ‘Evil’ and Human Cruelty

EVIL, from page 19 the person in the seconds just before the act of as second-class citizens. Indeed, as far back as describes being left naked while her house They might end up in this state of mind because cutting. At that very moment presumably all the 1830s, Armenians were not even eligible to burned. I imagine — like me — you are aston - of years of resentment and hurt (often the that is visible to the thief is the target (the ring), give testimony against Muslims in court — their ished beyond words by this event. How do rebel result of conflict) or, as we see, for more endur - a small object that could feed him for weeks. All evidence was considered inadmissible. soldiers lose sight of the fact that this person ing, neurological reasons. that is lying between him and his next meal is By the 1870s Armenians were pressing for was a woman, no different from their own moth - (Interestingly, in this state of single-minded the woman’s finger that has to be severed. The reforms, and during the 1890s at least 100,000 ers? How can they treat her as an object in this pursuit of one’s own goals, one’s project might fact that the finger is attached to a hand is mere Armenians were killed. On April 24, 1915, 250 way? How do they ignore that this boy — forced even have a positive focus: helping people, for inconvenience, and cold logic points to the solu - Armenian intellectuals were rounded up, to have sex with his mother — is just a teenag - example. But even if the person’s project is pos - tion: Detach it. The fact that the hand is imprisoned, and killed. On September 13 the er, with normal feelings? itive, worthy and valuable, if it is single-minded, attached to a person, with her own life and her Ottoman parliament passed a law decreeing the But that’s more than enough examples of it is by definition unempathic). own feelings, is at that moment irrelevant. Out “expropriation and confiscation” of Armenian human cruelty from different cultures to remind So now we’ve made a specific move: aiming to of mind. It is an example of turning another per - property, and Armenians were marched from us of what humans are capable. If I’m right that explain how people can be cruel to each other not son into (no more than) an object. My argument Turkey to the Syrian town of Deir ez Zor. En such acts are the result of no empathy, then out of evil but because of empathy erosion. is that when you treat someone as an object, route and in 25 concentration camps (near what we need urgently are answers to two basic While that feels marginally more satisfying as your empathy has been turned off. Turkey’s modern borders with Iraq and Syria), questions: But that’s more than enough exam - an answer (it is at least the beginning of an This example might suggest that someone 1.5 million Armenians died. Some were killed in ples of human cruelty from different cultures to explanation), it is still far from complete. capable of this crime had a momentary blip. mass burning, others by injection of morphine, remind us of what humans are capable. If I’m Empathy erosion as an explanation begs the Could the perpetrator’s desperation, hunger and yet others by toxic gas. It is a history that right that such acts are the result of no empa - further questions of what empathy is and how and poverty have been so overwhelming that he is not often told, and the Genocide of the thy, then what we need urgently are answers to it can be eroded. But at least these are tractable temporarily lost his empathy for the victim? We Armenians is clear proof (if any were needed) two basic questions: What is empathy? And why questions, and ones we shall attempt to answer have all experienced, or observed in others, the Holocaust was not unique to the Nazis. do some people have less than others? as we proceed through this book. such transient states, where afterward one’s Here’s my last example of extreme human By the end of our journey, there should be empathy recovers. I’m guessing that during cruelty, this time from the Congo. Mirindi less of a nagging need for answers to the big your transient lapses in empathy, nothing as Euprazi was at home in her village of Ninja in (Simon Baron-Cohen is professor of develop - question of understanding human cruelty. The awful happens as we saw in this example. This the Walungu region of the Democratic mental psychopathology in the Departments mind should be quieted if the answers are suggests that what this man did to this woman Republic of Congo in 1994 when the rebels of Psychiatry and Experimental Psychology at beginning to feel satisfying. But before we delve was more than a transient lapse. My concern in attacked. She told her story: “They forced my the University of Cambridge in the United into the nature of empathy, let’s look at a hand - this book is with this more enduring phenome - son to have sex with me, and when he’d fin - Kingdom. He is the director of the University’s ful of factual examples from around the world non — the result of more stable traits where it ished they killed him. Then they raped me in Autism Research Centre, and a Fellow of to prove that the awful things the Nazis did is harder, if not impossible, to recover empathy front of my husband and then they killed him Trinity College. This column originally were not unique to the Nazis. We have to go and where the consequences can be extremely too. Then they took away my three daughters.” appeared in the New York Times on through this if only to eliminate one (in my serious. We are going to take a close look at She hasn’t heard of the three girls since. She June 13.) opinion) absurd view, which is that the Nazis people in the population who desperately need were in some way uniquely cruel. As you’ll see, empathy but who, for various reasons, don’t they weren’t. have it — and probably never will. But more of that later. For now, I am going to Empathy Erosion Around the Globe limit myself to four other examples of empathy The Armenian Erosion of empathy is a state of mind that erosion around the planet because we don’t can be found in any culture. In 2006 I was in need lots of distressing examples to have proof Kenya with my family on holiday. We landed in that this can happen in any culture. Nairobi, a massive international city swirling Josef Fritzl built a cellar in his home in with people. Sadly, Nairobi is home to one of Amstetten, in northern Austria. You probably Mirro r-Spe ctator the largest slums in Africa. People sleeping on heard about this case, since it made worldwide the streets, mothers dying of AIDS, malnour - headline news. On August 24,1984, he impris - ished children begging or doing anything they oned his daughter Elisabeth down in the cellar YES, I would like a 1 – year subscription to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator. can to survive. I met Esther, a young Kenyan and kept her there for 24 years, telling his wife woman, one of the fortunate ones who had a she had gone missing. He raped Elisabeth — day USA /Second Class Mail $75.00 CANADA /Air Mail $125.00 job. She warned me to be careful of the rising after day — from age 11 until well into her USA /First Class Mail $120.00 crime in Nairobi. young adulthood. She ended up having seven “I was in the supermarket,” she said. children in the basement prison; one died at 3 J THE SUBSCRIPTION IS FOR ME “Suddenly, a woman near me who was queuing days old, and her father (the child’s father and NAME to pay for her groceries let out a scream. A man grandfather) burned the body to dispose of the ADDRESS behind her had cut off her finger. In the com - evidence. motion, the man slid the wedding ring off the Repeatedly during those 24 years Josef and CITY STATE ZIP severed finger and ran off into the crowds. It all his wife, Rosemarie, appeared on Austrian tele - happened so quickly.” vision, apparently distressed by Elisabeth’s dis - J THE SUBSCRIPTION IS A GIFT FOR: This is a shocking example of what one per - appearance, appealing to the public to help NAME son can do to another. them trace her. Josef claimed that three of Formulating the plan to go out into the Elisabeth’s children mysteriously turned up on ADDRESS crowded supermarket to steal is easy enough to his doorstep, abandoned by their mother, and CITY STATE ZIP comprehend, especially if a person is starving. he and his wife (their grandmother) were rais - Formulating the plan to take a knife along is ing them. The other three children grew up in Please make check payable to: The Armenian Mirror-Spectator and mail to: a bit harder to identify with, since it indicates the basement prison, ending up with major psy - clear premeditation to cut something. chological disturbance. How could a father 755 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472-1509 But for me the key is to imagine the mind of treat his daughter as an object and deprive her All payments must be drawn on US banks and three of his children/grandchildren of their right to freedom in this way? Where was his empathy? US Stamp Should The next example of empathy erosion that Commemorate 100th stopped me in my tracks was a report on BBC’s Newsnight program. On July 24, 2002, rebel sol - SUB SCRIBE Anniversary diers entered the Ugandan village of Pajong. Esther Rechan, a young mother, recalls what With the 100th anniversary of the happened next: Armenian Genocide coming up in the “My 2-year-old was sitting on the veranda. year 2015, I thought it would be appro - The rebels started kicking him. They kicked priate for all Armenian organizations and him to death. . . . I had my 5-year-old with me, church groups to unite in getting the US when the female rebel commander ordered all Postal Service to issue a US of us with children to pick them up and smash Commemorative Stamp on the Armenian them against the veranda poles. We had to hit Genocide of 1915-1923. The US Postal them until they were dead. All of us with chil - Service usually requires at least two to dren, we had to kill them. If you did it slowly three years of notice to issue a commem - they would beat you and force you to hit your orative stamp. Also, the United Nations children harder, against the poles. In all, seven TODAY! Postal System should be notified and pos - children were killed by their mothers like that. sibly a joint issue with the Republic of My own child was only 5.” Armenia. An appropriate design should What was going through the minds of these be forwarded, possibly with a picture of rebel soldiers that they could force a mother to Mount Ararat in the background with the batter her own child to death? inscription, the first Genocide of 1915 of Now consider an example from a lesser-known the Armenian Nation. It also could be holocaust, one not committed by the Nazis. I Check us out at suggested to have it in a form of a sou - heard about this when I went to Turkey last sum - venir sheet instead of a stamp. mer. The Turks are renowned for their warm, www.mirrorspectator.com — Stephen T. Dulgarian welcoming, friendly culture, but when they were under Ottoman rule, they regarded Armenians