NOVEMBER 18, 2017 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVIII, NO. 18, Issue 4512 $ 2.00 NEWS The First English Language in the United States Since 1932 INBRIEF to Offer Estate of Dr. Nubar Berberian Lemkin Scholarships to Bequests $340,000 to Tekeyan Foreign Students (Public Radio of Armenia) — The Cultural Association Museum-Institute announced WATERTOWN — The estate of the late Dr. Nubar Berberian this week that if was offering the 2018 Lemkin has bequeathed a sum of $340,000 to the Tekeyan Cultural Scholarship program for foreign students and PhD Association, Inc. (TCA). The Central Board of candidates. Directors of the TCA decided to establish the The Lemkin scholarship is intended to enable Dr. Nubar Berberian Trust Fund and carry foreign students and young scientists, who spe- out his wishes as expressed in his will by pub- cialize in genocide studies, especially in the lishing a volume of Dr. Berberian’s Armenian- Armenian Genocide, to visit Armenia for a month language articles and editorials. It will also to conduct research in local scientific institu- use the interest annually from the bequest to tions and libraries. provide awards to college students of The Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute will Armenian descent who major in either inter- provide researchers possibility to carry out their national law or political science and who are research in AGMI, including necessary research born or live in the United States, , or Armenia. materials and consultation. Berberian, a noted journalist and Armenian activist, passed The deadline for application is on December away on November 23, 2016, after a brief illness. He was 94. 15. The winner will be selected by the Scientific see BEQUEST, page 20 Council of the AGMI on December 25. Saryan Exhibit Opens Jewish and Armenian Artifacts on Display In MOSCOW (Armenpress) — An exhibition of works by Martiros Saryan’s opened on November 16 on the occasion of “Armenian Culture Days in Jointly at Manoogian Museum ” at Moscow’s Tretyakov Gallery. The exhibition is held in the sidelines of the Armenian Culture Days in Russia, in which 30 By Alice Nigoghosian works by Saryan will be exhibited. The opening took place with the participation of the presidents of Armenia and Russia, Serzh Sargsyan and SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — The year 2017 Vladimir Putin. The exhibition will remain on dis- marks the 25th anniversary of the opening play until January 14, 2018. On the same day, the of the Alex and Marie Manoogian Museum. unveiling of Saryan’s Memorial Plaque was held in In honor of this anniversary, as well as Moscow. 2016 being the year when initial appoint- ments were made to the Michigan , Tumanyan Governor’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education to provide guidance in Comemmorations in developing an appropriate curriculum to be taught in Michigan schools, the museum UNESCO Calendar embarked on a special exhibit featuring — The 150th anniversaries of he birth of Jewish and Armenian artifacts from the col- Komitas and Hovhannes Tumanyan have been lection of James and Ana Melikian of included in the United Nations Educational, Scottsdale, Ariz. Scientific and Cultural Organizaiton (UNESCO) cal- More than 200 people from both com- endar of celebrations for 2018-2019. munities attended a preview of the collec- The decision was adopted at the 39th session of tion at the Alex and Marie Manoogian the UNESCO General Conference. The Executive Museum, hosted by the Museum and Board approved the proposal submitted by Chairman Richard Manoogian of the Robert Taubman and Doreen Hermelin (Honorary Vice-President of World ORT) Armenia with the support of France and . Armenian Apostolic Society. Soghomon Soghomonian, known as Komitas Mistress of Ceremonies Elizabeth Vardapet, composer, ethnomusicologist, researcher Brazilian (of Child Safe Michigan) intro- for coming and remembered his parents by Michigan’s education curriculum.” and singer (1869-1935). duced Manoogian, who thanked everyone stating “how proud they would be of this Brazilian introduced Keith Pomeroy, The nomination of poet, writer and translator moment as we celebrate the 25th anniver- chairman of Pomeroy Financial Services Hovhannes Tumanyan (1869- 1923) was submitted sary of the Manoogian Museum....” and and Pomeroy Investment Company, and by Armenia with the support of and the Reclaiming the also recognized “the collaborative efforts also a founding member of MOCAD Russian Federation. of the Jewish and Armenian communities (Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit), to Good Name of to incorporate the histories of the speak on behalf of the Jewish community. Liman von Sanders Genocide and Holocaust in the State of see MUSEUM, page 5 INSIDE By Muriel Mirak-Weissbach Sheriff Koutoujian Participates in Armenian Special to the Mirror-Spectator Church Clergy Webinar Focused on Opioid Crisis Gorky CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – Middlesex Sheriff BERLIN — On November 4, retired Peter J. Koutoujian discussed local efforts to Gen. Eckhard Lisec delivered a lecture address the opioid crisis during a webinar Landscapes in Darmstadt, Germany entitled, for Armenian Church clergy on Tuesday, “Marshall Liman von Sanders – An October 31. The sheriff spoke from Holy Page 13 Honorable Soldier?” The question Trinity Armenian Church in Cambridge, mark reflects the doubt cast on the where he joined other presenters for the live role of the German First World War webinar viewed by participants in several commander by authorities of the city states in the eastern United States. Darmstadt, where von Sanders is Koutoujian was invited to participate in buried. Until 2015 he had been given a INDEX the webinar by clergy officials to present on “grave of honor” in the historic ceme- Arts and Living ...... 12 the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office efforts to tery, but then the city decided to Armenia ...... 2 assist individuals in the justice system with Community News...... 5 remove the designation, on grounds opioid use disorders. Editorial ...... 17 that military achievements alone (he Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian “I want to thank the church and all the International ...... 3,4 see VON SANDERS, page 4 addresses members of the clergy in the organizers for putting together this critical Armenian Church. see WEBINAR, page 8 2 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Zabel Yessayan Legacy Taking Root in Artsakh CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and — Thanks to the Artsakh Human Rights Essay and the EU Appoints New Special Graphic Design t-shirt contests, young Rep. for South Caucasus people in Artsakh are discovering the legacy of Zabel Yessayan, the Armenian YEREVAN (Panorama.am) — The European author and human rights activist. Council appointed this week Toivo Klaar as EU Born in 1878 in Constantinople, Special Representative for the South Caucasus and Yessayan played an important role in the crisis in Georgia. the tumultuous events shaping Klaar’s task will be to contribute to a peaceful set- Armenian history in the first part of tlement of conflicts in the region, namely the crisis the 20th century. The contests are in Georgia and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as organized by Ruben Melikyan, the well as to encourage regional cooperation. In partic- Ombudsman for Artsakh, Korioun ular, the Special Representative co-chairs and partic- Khatchadourian from TUMO ipates on behalf of the EU in the Geneva Stepanakert, and Judith Saryan from International Discussions on the consequences of the Cambridge, Mass. 2008 conflict in Georgia. On November 8, TUMO Stepanakert According to the source, Klaar is currently Head of announced the winner of the graphic the Central Asia Division at the European External design t-shirt contest. The winning Action Service (EEAS) and prior to this appointment entry was designed by Astghik served as Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Simonyan of Stepanakert. She created Georgia. He is a senior diplomat with extensive expe- a stylized image of Yessayan’s face on rience both in the EEAS and in the Estonian diplo- the front of the t-shirt. Below it she matic service. printed Yessayan’s quote, “Literature is Toivo Klaar succeeds Ambassador Herbert Salber not an ornament, a pleasant pastime, a (of German nationality), who had held the post since pretty flower. Literature is a weapon to Astghik Simonyan of Stepanakert with her winning t-shirt design featuring the face July 8, 2014. struggle against Injustice.” Simonyan and a quotation from Zabel Yessayan designed a geometric pomegranate symbolizing Artsakh to adorn the back Diabetes Nears Epidemic of the shirt. ago, her story resurfaced with the play about her life and works, and Proportions in Armenia, The winners of the human rights works of Lerna Ekmekcioglu and researchers are combing through her essay contest based on the legacy of Melissa Bilal and the archives in Yerevan to learn more about Endocrinologist Says Yessayan will be announced on documentary, “Finding Zabel this brilliant and courageous woman. December 10, International Human Yessayan.” Ever since then, Yessayan’s The Tufenkian Foundation and the YEREVAN (Panorama.am) — Diabetes and heart dis- Rights Day. books have been translated into National Association for Armenian ease are not only major public health problems globally Yessayan attracted a lot of attention English, French, Turkish and Italian. Studies and Research (NAASR) are co- but also in Armenia. The country ranked third for the during her lifetime, but she disap- The mayor of Paris announced that a sponsoring the Human Rights Essay number of deaths attributed annually to them, Chief peared without a trace in a Soviet street was recently named after her, a contest based on the legacy of endocrinologist of Armenian Ministry of Healthcare prison in the 1940s. Starting 15 years group of women in created a Yessayan. Edward Toromanyan said at a press conference on November 14. Toromanyan said data suggesting the number of people with diabetes is around 400 million in the world and likely to increase with the growing inci- Russian-Armenian Tycoon-Led Group Pledges Sizable dence of Type 2 Diabetes. “The same rates are true for Armenia. In 2000, Investment in Armenia 40,000 people were diagnosed with diabetes, while the number has doubled today with around 83,000 YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — The Tashir of the new system. Dozens of students Systems and Design institutes in the patients registered in the dispensary. According to group of companies owned by Russia- and young researchers were said to be academic year of 2016-2017. our estimates, the number will surpass 90,000 with based billionaire Samvel Karapetian able to develop their professional skills After visiting the SEUA President the ongoing annual rate of 7-8,000 diagnosed with together with the Armenian Investors and get acquainted with modern tech- Sargsyan reportedly joined the mayor diabetes,” Toromanyan said. Club and international financial institu- nologies in the field of energy and of Yerevan, the minister of economic Diabetes is approaching epidemic proportions con- tions intends to invest about $1 billion automation. The Center will also pro- development and investments, other sidering the rapid rate of spread of the disease, in Armenia’s energy sector over the next mote the development of science and government officials and guests to Toromanyan said. few years. This announcement was technology, as well as knowledge-based attend the launch of another Tashir made in Yerevan on Monday, November industry in Armenia. Group project — the opening of the 13, during the launch of the investment Within the framework of the project, Russian Rio network-affiliated trade Indian Citizens to Enter project that was also attended by the Tashir charitable foundation will and entertainment center in the Armenia with Facilitated Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan. provide scholarships to 55 students Arabkir administrative district of During the event, the speakers gave with excellent academic performance at Yerevan. The nearly $40 million-worth Visa Regime details of resources and ways of imple- the Energy and Electrical Engineering, project is expected to generate 500 menting the investment program, as Mechanical Engineering, Transport new jobs. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The citizens of India well as how realistic it was, the presi- will be able to receive entry visa of Armenia at bor- dential press service reported. der checkpoints, by electronic visa system or at the In attendance were representatives diplomatic representations or consular offices of of Tashir Group’s international finan- Armenia in foreign countries. The draft decision was cial partners and other organizations. included in the agenda of the Cabinet’s November 16 At the end of the presentation, a docu- meeting. According to the bill, the facilitation of the ment signing ceremony was held visa regime with India will foster touristic flows to between Tashir Company, the Electric Armenia. At the same time an agreement has been Networks of Armenia (ENA) Company reached between the leaderships of the two countries that belongs to Tashir Group and their to expand cooperation in different spheres, diversify financial partners. economic relations and to foster tourism. According to the report, Sargsyan also attended the opening of a center Four Armenian Freestyle for excellence at the State Engineering University of Armenia (SEUA) estab- Wrestlers to Take Part in lished with the investments of the internationally renowned French com- U-23 World pany, Schneider Electric, the Tashir Championships group of companies and the SEUA. Accompanied by the minister of edu- WARSAW, Poland (Panorama.am) — The Armenian cation and science, the SEUA rector, national freestyle wrestling team is set to take part in the president of the Tashir group of U-23 World Championships to be held from companies, top executives from the November 21-26 in Poland. As the National Olympic ENA and Cascade Energy companies, Committee (ANOC) reported, the Armenian team is the president of Armenia toured the WASHINGTON — Tekeyan Cultural Association (TCA) of newly opened Innovation Center to represented by four athletes - Gevorg Tadevosyan Armenia Executive Director Gayane Muradyan is visit- (57kg), Ghazar Hambardzumyan (61kg), Khachatur inspect the activities of the High and ing the US to attend the TCA Greater New York gala on Papikyan and Hrayr Alikhanyan (74kg). Medium Voltage Distribution National team head coach Habetnak Kurghunyan Laboratory, the Training Center for November 18. Before going to New York, Muradyan said that the athletes are in good physical condition Automated Registration and Control toured Washington, DC , where she met with Vice and that the World Championships will provide a System and the facilities available in Ambassador of Armenia Hratchia Tashjian on Tuesday, the auditoriums. November 14 at the Armenian Embassy. Sargsyan was briefed on the main results expected from the introduction S A T U R D A Y , N O V E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Was Flynn Working for Turkish International News

Government to Kidnap Gulen in US? Armenian Officials Offer

sented a huge win domestically that meeting, that Erdogan’s son-in-law met Condolences to By Cristina Maza would outweigh any international fall- with Flynn and they paid his company a YEREVAN — Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan out,” Alp Toker, the founder of Turkey considerable sum of money,” Gulen told sent a message of condolence to his Iranian counter- Blocks, which monitors technology and France 24. “Indeed, for a person like part Hassan Rohani on the devastating earthquake WASHINGTON (Newsweek) — politics in Turkey, told Newsweek. Flynn, who served in high positions, near the Islamic Republic’s border with Iraq that Turkish officials have vehemently Gulen is a 75-year-old Turkish preach- who comes from the military and served claimed hundreds of victims on November 13. denied allegations that they offered to er who rose to prominence in the 1970s in respectable positions, for him to A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck at Ezgeleh, in pay President Donald Trump’s former by advocating the importance of ethics accept such money — which might be the northwestern Iranian province of Kermanshah, national security adviser Michael Flynn in education. His ideological movement considered a form of bribery — I don’t killing around 450 people and injuring thousands of around $15 million to forcibly extradite has established private schools in 150 think it’s befitting for a person of his others. a Turkish cleric who has been living in countries, including the United States. stature.” Sargsyan offered his “deepest sympathy to Iran’s the US for decades. (See related editor- Turkish President Erdogan and Gulen Gulen has said he would not flee the President and the friendly people of Iran, wishing ial on page 17.) were close allies for decades, and the US if the Trump administration chose the victims’ families and relatives fortitude and The Wall Street Journal reported on two leaders both supported Turkish to extradite him, but experts say it’s courage, and to the injured a speedy recovery.” November 10 that special counsel nationalism and strict religiosity. But unlikely he will be extradited anytime Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan also offered his Robert Mueller is investigating an the relationship soured in 2013 after soon. thoughts to First Vice President Es’haq Jahangiri. alleged plot in which Flynn would be Gulen criticized the way Erdogan dealt “Both the legal and political means of He wrote, “I was deeply grieved to learn of casualties paid to send Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish with street protests. the Trump administration to extradite and destruction caused by the devastating earth- preacher who has become an object of Erdogan then blamed Gulen for a Gulen are extremely limited, especially quake in the state of Kermanshah in the Islamic obsession for Turkish President Recep coup attempt that failed to depose him without substantial proof that he was Republic of Iran. On behalf of the Government of the Tayyip Erdogan, back to Turkey. Gulen in 2016. Since then, the Turkish gov- directly and personally involved in the Republic of Armenia and myself, I convey deepest has been living in Pennsylvania since ernment has launched a witch hunt for military coup attempt,” Magdalena condolences to you and the friendly people of Iran, 1999, and the Obama administration “Gulenists,” jailing journalists, politi- Kirchner, a fellow at the Istanbul Policy expressing our readiness to engage in rescue resisted requests from the Turkish gov- cians, members of the military and any- Center, told Newsweek. “If Turkey was efforts.” ernment to extradite him. It’s still one suspected of siding with Gulen. seeking Flynn’s assistance to kidnap or Similarly, Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and unclear how the Trump administration Around 50,000 people are in prison in encourage the administration to inter- Catholicos of All , sent a letter to Hassan will respond to the requests. Turkey and more than 100,000 civil ser- fere in judicial process, it would under- Rohani, president of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Friday’s report said Turkey had asked vants have been fired from their jobs for line that also not everyone in Ankara is The letter stated in part: “With great sorrow we Flynn for help to have Gulen transport- alleged links to Gulen’s network. convinced that Gulen could be extradit- were informed about the devastating earthquake in ed on a private jet to the Turkish prison Flynn, a retired lieutenant general, ed to Turkey under current circum- Iran, which has caused hundreds of deaths and island of Imrali. Unsurprisingly, Turkey worked for Turkey as a lobbyist while stances.” injuries, leaving thousands of families homeless. Our characterized the allegations in a state- simultaneously working on the Trump Flynn was one of the first people people, who three decades ago survived this type of ment as “utterly false, ludicrous and campaign. He has written op-eds in investigated by the special counsel for catastrophe, deeply share the pain of the friendly groundless.” But some experts say that favor of Gulen’s extradition. allegedly facilitating collusion between people of Iran, wishing that through your leadership Turkey’s government would have scored Flynn’s lawyer described the allega- the Trump campaign and the Russian and joint efforts of all the people of Iran, the damage political points for extraditing Gulen. tions that his client was working to government during the 2016 presiden- caused by the disaster will soon be overcome and a “It’s not unthinkable that Turkey may extradite Gulen as “outrageous.” But in tial campaign. Investigators are report- peaceful and secure life be returned to the country.” have considered extrajudicial means to an exclusive interview with France 24, edly gathering information about get hold of the cleric. Gulen’s unpopu- Gulen said he had been aware of efforts Flynn’s lobbying work, including larity crosses political divides back to involve Flynn. whether he lied to federal agents about Israel Investigating home and the capture would have pre- “I learned about the report of that his overseas contacts. Drone Firm Accused of Bombing Armenia TEL AVIV (Times of Israel) — Police have opened a criminal investigation against an Israeli drone manu- facturer that allegedly attempted to bomb the Armenian military on behalf of Azerbaijan during a demonstration of one of unmanned aerial vehicles earlier this year. “An investigation is ongoing against Aeronautics Defense Systems Ltd. in regards to a deal with a sig- nificant customer,” police said in a statement Tuesday, November 14. The Israel Police’s Unit of International Crime Investigations, known in Hebrew by its acronym Yahbal, is leading the investigation. News of the investigation came out on Monday, November 13, as an Israeli court approved a gag order for the case, limiting the information that can be published about it. For instance, police would not identify the “signif- icant customer.” In a statement, Aeronautics said it would “fully cooperate with any examination on any issue and The Armenian booth at the ProWine China 2017 would work to the best of its capabilities so the inves- tigation will be as swift as possible.” Armenian Alcohol Firms Participate in China Expo The gag order shows that the company has been under investigation since at least September 4. BEIJING (Public Radio of Armenia) — Thirteen millennial traditions of winemaking and the latest In late August, the Defense Ministry Defense Armenian wine, brandy and other alcoholic beverage technology. Today, Armenian wine and brandy are Export Controls Agency halted Aeronautics’ export producing companies participate in the ProWine exported to over 25 countries worldwide. license for its Orbiter 1K model UAV to a “signifi- China 2017 expo with the support of the Development The CEO of Development Foundation of Armenia, cant customer,” which the company reported to the Foundation of Armenia and Vine and Wine Foundation Armen Avak Avakian has mentioned: “The Asian mar- Israeli stock exchange, as required by law. of Armenia. ket is a new yet perspective export direction for the Last year, Azerbaijan used another Israeli suicide Armenian wine and brandy production are presented Armenian companies. We have big plans: the govern- drone, an Israeli Aerospace Industries Harop-model, in a single pavilion. The sector is one of the govern- ment has created favorable conditions for winemaking in an attack on a bus that killed seven Armenians. ment’s priorities, therefore the participation of compa- and brandy, and the interest of investors and interna- nies with export potential has been co-financed tional buyers in the field is also evident. As a result, in through state support. different regions of Armenia the number of vineyards Simonyan Surpasses ProWine China took place November 14 to 16 and is grows, new factories are established, and this direction Clinton in Forbes List of the largest exhibition of the sector, with 650 compa- of tourism attracts more visitors to our country”. nies from 37 countries participating this year, and over The executive director of Vine and Wine Foundation Inf luential Women 12,000 importers and professionals expected to visit. of Armenia, Zaruhi Muradyan stated: “In the birth- The representatives of both foundations have made place of wine, in Armenia the vitivinicultural sector is MOSCOW (Armenpress) — Director of Russia preliminary cognitive work with international buyer experiencing renaissance and by participating in this Today news agency Margarita Simonyan has sur- organizations and distributors, to achieve demand for expo, as a country introducing the royal drink to the passed former US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton Armenian products. humanity, we once more engage in gaining world mar- in the Forbes list of most influential women, Ria The Asian market is a target for Armenia, where, ket share. Armenian wine and brandy are full of unique Novosti reported. according to experts of two foundations, Armenian taste and have all the preconditions to be competitive German Chancellor Angela Merkel leads the list. production is competitive due to the combination of in international market”. 4 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL Reclaiming Good Name of Liman von Sanders

VON SANDERS, from page 1 cholera epidemic, Greek lives were spared. was the “Hero of Gallipoli”) did not warrant Citing the work of Christoph Dinkel, Lisec such a commemoration. Worse, the findings noted the cruel irony of the accusations issued by an experts’ committee charged made by the British, who imprisoned von with examining the issue, contained accusa- Sanders in Malta, that he had been co-respon- tions that von Sanders had been implicated sible for the genocide, when in fact he was in the Armenian Genocide carried out by the the only officer who actually saved Greeks during the war. and Armenians. Lisec was the right person to address the Honor and Role Models matter. He retired recently after a long career In the lively discussion that accompanied in the German military, serving in ministerial Lisec’s lecture, the issue of honor, especially and diplomatic capacities in Belgium and, in relation to the military, was central. One from 2002 to 2005, as brigadier general was participant raised the example of British assistant chief of staff support of the NATO Marshall Arthur Harris, famous for the fire- Rapid Deployable Corps in Istanbul. Sparked bombing of Dresden in February 1945, which by curiosity, he delved into study of the his- devastated the city and caused mass deaths tory of the Ottoman Empire, beginning as a of civilians. Yet in 1992, a statue was erected hobby in 2002, and, thanks to his newly in London, at the RAF Church of St. Clement acquired language capabilities, has been able Danes, by something called the Bomber to consult source material in Turkish as well Harris Trust. Opponents then and now con- as other languages. He said he had read more sider Harris not a hero but a war criminal. than 1,000 works on the subject since retire- Then there are the graves of honor, for ment. example, in Berlin, which hosts over 500 Several books of his own are the result of such graves, paying tribute to statesmen, this effort, ranging from a study of a century Historian Fred Kautz (l.) and Gen. (ret.) Eckhard Lisec at the grave of Liman von Sanders artists, poets, scientists as well as military; of cooperation between the German and the Forest of Remembrance in Potsdam is Turkish air forces (1911-2011), to a volume dedicated to the memory of the German entitled, The War of Independence and the armed forces. Finally, there is the case of Founding of Turkey (2016). This year, Miles- like General Friedrich Bronsart von Lisec provided several examples of Darmstadt’s old cemetery, where military Verlag in Berlin, a publisher specializing in Schellendorf, who did interfere or, rather, instances in which Liman von Sanders fol- men have had their graves stripped of this military studies, released his book, The participate in Turkish internal politics, de lowed his conscience and made the right honor. Armenian Genocide in the First World War – facto supporting the deportations. Lisec moral decision. “His behavior was to a large Asked for his views on the matter, Lisec German Officers Involved? And in early 2018 showed how the command structure was sup- extent correct,” he said. In March 1915, he said that Germany is a special case, because his newest work should appear, entitled, posed to function, and underlined the com- refused to expel Jewish and Armenian trans- of the Shoah. Germany started two world History of the Turkish Army from 209 B.C. to plexity of a situation with mixed troops and lators from his staff, and in the following year wars, he said, and as a result, “We have a bro- the Present. officers. In his book, he describes the “com- intervened more than once to prevent or stop ken military history.” In light of this, he plicated situation of responsibilities and deportations of Greeks from Urla and from asked, “Do we need personal role models?” The Germans’ Dilemma duties to obedience which … led to conflicts coastal regions, for example, and of Jews and He answered in the negative, suggesting German officers who had been engaged to between Enver Pasha and Liman von Armenians from Edirne, again of Armenians instead that what are needed are “philosoph- train the Ottoman army were told by Sanders.” In addition, he showed the differ- from Smyrna (Izmir). In this latter case, as is ical” examples. Emperor Wilhelm II to stay out of internal ing interests and viewpoints even among the known, he went so far as to threaten the Vali Although the case seemed to be closed in Turkish politics. This created a dilemma, three members of the Young Turk leadership. with the deployment of weapons to stop the the Darmstadt cemetery, discussion of the Lisec said: should they blindly obey the Liman von Sanders displayed indepen- deportations. And his threats were effective. principle, and of the specific case of Liman emperor or should they obey their con- dence of judgment and action on repeated It is estimated that through his forceful von Sanders, is sure to continue and spread, science? At a time when the anti-Armenian occasions. As for the military decisions, he actions, von Sanders saved the lives of 7- thanks to Lisec’s new book and lectures. The massacres were well underway, most of them vehemently opposed the Caucasus campaign, 8,000 Armenians. In Smyrna, thanks to the recent talk was covered prominently in the obeyed their emperor. Then there were those, which in fact turned out to be a disaster. assistance he lent the governor during a Darmstädter Echo, by Rüdiger Gilbert.

Montreal Tekeyan Youth Visit Ottawa OTTAWA, Canada — On October 14, a busload of Montreal Tekeyan Cultural Association’s Tekeyan Armenagan Youth and their leaders had a day outing to Ottawa. They had a sightseeing tour, visited the Canadian War Museum and had a guided tour to the Canadian parliament. They also visited the recently unveiled statue of Yousuf Karsh, in front of Laurier Hotel. The Tekeyan youth get together regularly on Saturdays The Tekeyan youth at the library of the Canadian parliament at the Montreal Tekeyan Center.

The Tekeyan Armenagan Youth group visiting the Canadian parliament The Tekeyan youth in front of the statue of Youssuf Karsh S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 Community News

Holy Trinity Church Fresno State Hosts Celebrates 56 Years Conference on On Brattle Street, Ottoman Minorities Honors Parishioner Of the Year By Michael Rettig

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Sunday, October 22, FRESNO — The Armenian Studies Program was day of celebration, tradition and honoring held a two-day international conference on those who built Holy Trinity’s church on Brattle “Armenians, Greeks and Kurds: A People’s Street, a day of memories, and a day of honoring History of the Ottoman Empire” on the weekend a devoted member of the Holy Trinity parish, of September 22-23. Prof. Barlow Der Aram Hintlian. Mugrdechian, director of the Armenian Studies The commemoration of the 56th anniversary Program, and Dr. Ümit Kurt, visiting post-doc- of the consecration of the Holy Trinity Armenian toral fellow at Harvard University, organized the Church of Greater Boston began with the cele- conference to highlight Ottoman history from bration of the Divine Liturgy by the Very Rev. the peripheries, rather than from the position of Mesrop Parsamyan, the newly-appointed director From left, Zaven Khanjian, Edward and Pamela Avedisian, honorees and Dr. power. Scholars presented their research on the of Ministries of the Diocese of the Armenian Nazareth Darakjian experiences of Armenians, Greeks, and Kurds Church of America (Eastern) and guest celebrant from the late 19th century to World War I. of the day. At the conclusion of services, the The conference was co-sponsored by the Grade 3 students of Holy Trinity’s Sunday College of Arts and Humanities and the School were each gifted a Bible presented to Department of History with support from the them by both Parsamyan and Fr. Vasken A. AMAA Centennial Thomas A. Kooyumjian Family Foundation, the Kouzouian, pastor of Holy Trinity. Receiving Leon S. Peters Foundation, and the M. Victoria Bibles were Ian Burton, Rory Burton, John Karagozian Kazan Fund for Armenian Studies. Esserian, Lusine Gyulkhasyan, Mary Gyulumyan, Der Mugrdechian provided historical context Sophia Hovnanian, Scott Rigolini and Talia Banquet to the conference in his introduction. According Tashjian. to him, the Tanzimat Reforms in the 19th cen- A celebratory banquet followed in Charles and tury disrupted the balance of power between the Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall. The afternoon’s central Ottoman government and periphery. It program began with the invocation offered by A Dazzling and Memorable Celebration gave hope to the oppressed but instilled jealousy Kouzouian. Gregory A. Kolligian, Jr., Parish in the ruling class. Der Mugrdechian stressed Council vice chairman, served as master of cere- TEANECK, N.J. — The Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) the importance of reexamining the relationship monies, and James M. Kalustian, Diocesan was created a hundred years ago to help and protect survivors of the Armenian between Ottoman Turks and those they ruled by Council chairman, offered the toast. Outgoing Genocide who were desperately clinging to life. From those soul-searing and mastering the languages of the people, in this Parish Council member, Jack Ekchian, was hon- heartbreaking beginnings, the AMAA within a century has mushroomed into an case, Armenian, Greek and Kurdish. ored for his six years of service to Holy Trinity awesome worldwide organization focus- Nilay Özok-Gündogan echoed this sentiment Church in remarks given by Daniel K. Dorian Jr., ing on education, churches, humanitar- in her presentation, “Can One Save the Voices of Parish Council chairman. By Florence Avakian ian relief and camps in 24 countries, a the ‘Ordinary’ Kurds from the ‘Enormous The highlight of the day was the honoring of stupendous accomplishment. Condescension of Posterity?’: Thoughts on Aram Hintlian as the Parishioner of the Year. On Saturday evening, October 21, Writing the Social History of the Kurds in the Berdjouhi Parseghian, a member of the close to 400 enthusiastic supporters came together to celebrate this unique feat Ottoman Empire.” According to Özok- at a Centennial Banquet at the Marriott Teaneck Glenpointe, entitled “Faithful Gündogan, when historians write about ordinary to our Legacy,” and to honor AMAA philanthropists Edward and Pamela people, they often describe them as mobs with Avedisian, and Doreen and (posthumously) Charles Bilezikian. little agency. They overemphasize the power the Guests included Armenia’s Ambassador to the US Grigor Hovhannissian, Ottoman government exercised over the Armenia’s Ambassador to the United Nations Zohrab Mnatsakanian and his provinces because they “take the wording of the wife, Irina, Prelacy Vicar General Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian representing the text for granted” rather than examine Kurdish Armenian Prelate Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, and the Very Rev. Vasken and Armenian sources. Karayan representing the Armenian Diocesan Primate Archbishop Khajag Varak Ketsemanian described a similar prob- Barsamian. By e-mail, Armenian Catholic Bishop Michael Mouradian sent a con- lem in his study on “The Armenian gratulatory message. Revolutionary Movement Between Ideologies Also attending were AMAA President Dr. Nazareth Darakjian and Dr. Ani and Paradoxes: A Case Study of the Hunchakian Darakjian, Joyce Philibosian Stein and Joe Stein of the Stephen Philibosian Party Program (1890-1896).” According to him, Foundation, the Telfeyan Evangelical Foundation with several family members, Dr. historians too often focus on the leadership of Carnegie Calian, Badvelis (ministers) from all over the world including Canada, the Armenian Revolutionary movements rather From left, Ali, Aram, Becky and Tori Hintlian Europe, Armenia, the Middle East, and Australia, and representatives from the than on ordinary members. Ketsemanian exam- AGBU, AAHPO, Hamazkayin, Tekeyan Cultural Association, and the ARS. ined the Hunchakian party and the paradoxes Following an elegant reception, and the singing of the U.S. National Anthem between the intellectual ideologies and realities Diocesan Ararat Center Board of Directors by four young students from the Merdinian Armenian Evangelical School of Los on the ground. where he currently serves as chairman, paid trib- Angeles and the Armenian Anthem by students from the Khoren and Owen Miller, in his presentation on “The ute to his work on a Diocesan level by reading a Shooshanig Avedisian School, Armenian Evangelical World Council President Colonization of the Mountains: Sasun, Zeytun congratulatory letter from the Board. Rev. Berdj Djambazian shared an inspirational invocation. Dedicated Banquet and Dersim at the End of the Ottoman Empire,” Parsamyan read a congratulatory letter from co-chairs Dr. Celeste Telfeyan Helvacian and Dr. Nurhan Helvacian warmly wel- described the central Ottoman government’s Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate. comed the spirited crowd, briefly extolling the spectacular achievements of the attempt to subjugate mountainous strongholds A touching and warm segment of the program 100-year-old Association. in the eastern provinces. According to Miller, was when Hintilian’s daughters, Ali, who sur- many eastern areas, such as Sasun, Dersim and prised her father and flew up from the Standing on the Shoulders of Giants Zeytun, were historically controlled by local lords University of Alabama for this special occasion, Master of Ceremonies Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, a long-time activist and bene- and princes with little interference from and Tori, expressed their love and gratitude to factor in the Armenian community, presented an eloquent tribute to the histo- Constantinople. Miller noted that the govern- their dad. Dorian shared the many reasons for ry of the AMAA. Quoting the Bible, he recalled that “if seeds are planted in fer- ment was not able to exercise complete control Hintilian’s selection as this year’s Parishioner of tile ground, it gives forth lots of fruit, ten-fold,” over many of these regions until 1915, while the Year. Hintilian has served as Parish Council then added, “thirty-fold, a hundred-fold.” Dersim was not truly integrated until the 1930s. member from 1987 to 1993; Diocesan Delegate “The AMAA for a hundred years has been plant- The government used modern weaponry to bru- for the past 25 years; chaired Holy Trinity’s ing those seeds here and all over the world. I am tally conquer these semi-autonomous regions. Annual Parish Assembly for the last decade; ran proud to say that I am the result of these selfless Miller noted the danger of relying on official the Country Store booth at Holy Trinity’s efforts,” he stated, expressing his gratitude for the sources when studying these events, as the mili- Christmas Bazaar since 1981; co-chaired Holy AMAA’s superior educational benefits that he and tary elite tried to cover up the violence they com- Trinity’s annual Gregory Hintlian Memorial Golf his wife, noted art curator Vicki Shoghag mitted. He stressed the importance of accumu- Tournament since 2005; treasurer of the Board Hovanessian, received during their youth. lating information from various sources, as of Trustees of the Holy Trinity Trust Fund; and In a sad tribute, he remembered the passing that “authoritarianism is ultimately the monopoliza- active Trinity Men’s Union member, having week of one of the most stalwart AMAA members tion of legitimate truth.” served as Chairman from 1995 to 2004. A spe- Khoren Nalbandian, and expressed sincere condo- David Gutman, in “The Sojourners of Harput cial tribute was also paid to Hintlian’s wife, lences to his wife Seta Nalbandian, an AMAA Dr. Raffy Hovanessian, (Kharpert): At the Intersection of the Local, Becky, who is also a part of the Holy Trinity Board member. Master of Ceremonies Imperial, and the Global,” discussed the unique Church family. But it was Aram Hintlian himself see CENTENNIAL, page 8 situation of Kharpert by examining Armenian who in his remarks brought all those present migration. Gutman stated that a majority of the see ANNIVERSARY, page 7 see CONFERENCE, page 6 6 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R COMMUNITY NEWS 58th Annual Trinity Christmas Bazaar to Be held December 1 and December 2 Fresno State Hosts Conference

Santa Claus who will be stopping by on On Ottoman Minorities By Seta A. Buchter Saturday, December 2, from 1 to 2 p.m. The Trinity Christmas Bazaar would not be CONFERENCE, from page 5 complete without the scrumptious Armenian estimated 35,000-40,000 Armenians who migrated to America between 1885-1908 were CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Holy Trinity gourmet foods, delicacies and pastries that from Kharpert. Though migrating to America was illegal in the Ottoman Empire, Armenian Church of Greater Boston will will be sold at various booths. Delicious Armenians in Kharpert could afford the sophisticated smuggling networks. According to usher in the holiday season with its 58th Armenian dinners will be served on Friday Gutman, this attests to Kharpert’s uniqueness, as the Armenians were more politically Annual Trinity Christmas Bazaar, on Friday, from noon to 7:30 p.m., and on Saturday and economically stable and integrated than in other provinces. Because of this, December 1, and Saturday, December 2, in from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Take-out meals and Armenians bore the brunt of the Genocide as local Turks sought to destroy this suc- the Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural an a la carte menu will also be available. cessful community. Hall, 145 Brattle St. Bazaar hours are Friday, Once again, we will be offering optional seat- Ümit Kurt similarly noted the role Armenian prosperity played in social relations in his from noon to 9 p.m., and Saturday, from 10 ing for families with children. study on “The Breakdown of a Previously Peaceful Coexistence: The Aintab Armenian a.m. to 7 p.m. Children will be able to enjoy the Bazaar Massacres of 1895.” According to Kurt, peace between the Armenians and Muslims in Co-Chairing this year’s bazaar are Gregory with their own special activities on both Aintab dissolved as wealth concentrated in the hands of Armenians. Muslims, as the dom- A. Kolligian, Jr. and Karen Hovsepian, who Friday evening and Saturday morning in the inant class, were unable to keep up with Armenian progress and became resentful. Local have been tirelessly working with their Peter Adamian Hall. The “Polar Express” Committees since the summer to ensure that Pajama Party will take place on Friday, from 7 this year’s Bazaar offers something for every- to 9 p.m. Children are encouraged to come one. “Our parishioners, neighbors and the dressed in their comfiest Christmas pajamas as community always look forward to attending we watch this Christmas classic. The movie is each year to see friends, enjoy delicious food recommended for children ages 5 and older (a and browse the many booths. This year’s supervising adult must remain on the Church Bazaar continues to be the perfect place for grounds). The movie running time is 92 min- people to do their Christmas shopping as utes. On Saturday morning, there will be chil-

The participants of the Fresno State Armenian Studies Program conference

notables thus took advantage of the Armenian massacres and used the opportunity to con- fiscate Armenian wealth. Ugur Z. Peçe’s lecture, “From Ballots to Barracks: The Conscription of non-Muslims at a Time of Parliamentary Politics in the Ottoman Empire, 1908-1912,” examined debates sur- rounding Greek conscription in the Ottoman army using parliamentary records and Greek newspapers. Emre Can Daglioglu, in “Intra-Imperial Space and Anti-Armenian Violence in the Ottoman Empire: The Aghtamar Catholicos Khatchadur III and the 1895 Van Massacre,” examined how Khatchadour III accrued social capital in the periphery and mobi- lized it against the Patriarchate in Istanbul. Janet Klein concluded the Conference with her novel study on “Armenian Minorityhood in Ottoman and Russian History and Historiography?”, which compared the concept of “minorityhood” in Ottoman and Russian historiography. A video of the entire conference is available on Facebook @HyeSharzhoom.

From left, Fr. Vasken A. Kouzouian, Karen Hovsepian and Gregory A. Kolligian, Jr. ENNIS M. EVENEY & ONS there will be a wonderful selection of gift dren’s entertainment beginning at 11 a.m. D D S items to purchase,” the two stated. Admission is free for both “The Polar Cemetery Monuments The Bazaar’s traditional favorites will Express” and the Children’s Entertainment. include the ever bountiful “Farmer’s Market” Raffle tickets are available for purchase for Specializing in with fresh fruits and vegetables; the a chance to win one of eight prizes: iPad Mini Armenian Designs and Lettering “Country Store;” the exciting Silent/Sports 4; Bose SoundTouch 10; Bose Sound Link Silent Auction, where you will be able to bid Mini; Amazon Echo, among other gifts. 701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543 on an array of fabulous items, Boston’s Tickets can be purchased by calling the favorite team tickets and sports memorabilia; Church office, 617.354.0632, or during the (781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com The Punch is Right Game, which has always two-day Bazaar. been popular with children; Jewelry and Super Raffle Tickets can win one of seven Accessories; the Sweet Tooth Booth, with a cash prizes, with first prize: $2,500. To pur- selection of holiday candies and delicious chase a ticket, contact the Holy Trinity treats; Poinsettias and beautifully decorated Church Office. Wreaths; KEZI Jewelry; Candy Emporium; Parking is allowed around the immediate ArmenianVendor.com; Purl Leez Jewels; perimeter of the church complex over the Raffles and more. two days of the Bazaar where it says “permit F UNERAL H OME Making his annual visit to the bazaar is parking only.” Giragosian James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 www.giragosianfuneralhome.com

Telephone (617) 924-7400 Aram Bedrosian Funeral Home, Inc. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 MARION BEDROSIAN 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN S A T U R D A Y , N O V E M B E R 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Panel on ‘Environmental Holy Trinity Church Celebrates 56 Years On Security and Statecraft in Brattle Street, Honors Parishioner of the Year Armenia’ at Northeastern University ANNIVERSARY, page 5 icated as he is. down memory lane sharing his growing up Becky rolls up her BOSTON — A panel discussion on years as part of the Holy Trinity family. sleeves and passes “Environmental Security and Statecraft in Kouzouian read a letter from his father, Fr. on the traditions Armenia” will take place on Thursday, Mampre A. Kouzouian, former pastor of Holy she also learned December 7, at 7:30 p.m., at Northeastern Trinity Church, congratulating Aram Hintlian from her in-laws University, 220 Shillman Hall, 115 Forsyth and remembering his parents, Aram and Anne, every time the need St., Boston. and their entire family for all they have done. arises. Together, The program is organized by the National In his remarks, Fr. Vasken Kouzouian stated: Aram and Becky Association for Armenian Studies and “Today, Aram, Jr., as our 2017 Parishioner of took their devotion Research (NAASR) / Calouste Gulbenkian the Year, receives the same Award that was pre- to their church and Foundation Lecture Series on Contemporary sented to his father, Aram, Sr., 33 years ago, instilled it in the Armenian Issues and is co-sponsored by back in 1984. That has never been done before home they built the Northeastern Armenian Students as far as I am aware. That’s worthy of celebrat- together and are Association. ing. In their home, Aram and Anne Hintlian raising their daugh- The panel will be moderated by Dr. Anna instilled an important lesson into their children ters in. Aram, Ohanyan, Richard B. Finnegan Distinguished to connect their lives to the life of their church. you’ve done so Professor of Political Science and Having been raised in this type of family, Aram much for our International Relations, Stonehill College, and his late brother, Greg, and sisters, Cynthia church so, on and will feature the participation of Alen and Nancy, grew up at home here at Holy behalf of all the From left, Fr. Vasken A. Kouzouian, The Very Rev. Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan, Amirkhanian, director, American University Trinity and learned what it means to work for pastors and parish Aram Hintlian and Daniel K. Dorian, Jr. of Armenia Acopian Center for the one’s church, and support one’s church and councils that have Environment; Ursula Kazarian, Founder and maintain one’s church with the same heart and benefitted from ex-President, Armenian Environmental spirit of their parents. And if that wasn’t your efforts and your family’s efforts, This day of celebration concluded with a Network; Jason Sohigian, deputy director, enough, Aram married a woman whose inner we thank you! You are one of the greatest Benediction offered by Parsamyan, followed by the Armenia Tree Project; and Emma McBride, beauty is the only thing that can outshine her Pillars this parish has ever had the honor of Holy Trinity family offering their warm congratula- Law Student, Boston College, and Peace outer beauty, and she became every bit as ded- calling a Parishioner.” tions to this year’s Parishioner of the Year. Corps volunteer in Armenia 2014-16. Environmental security has been emerging as a key component of statecraft around the world. Depletion and pollution of fresh water supplies, degradation and disappearance of biodiversity, projected loss of agriculture lands, and the costs imposed on food securi- ty and public health, are some of the global concerns that also affect the Armenian state and society. Around the world, countries differ in terms of their capacity and will to respond to envi- ronmental problems and opportunities with innovative institutional and technological solutions. Some are transitioning away from defensive approaches to proactive strategies of “green growth” that are sustainable and economically profitable. How does Armenia fare in its environmen- tal statecraft? What are the key issues of envi- ronmental security of the Armenian state? Does it face a choice between economic development and environmental protection? How is Armenia’s environmental security related to its national security? What can be done to strengthen Armenia’s environmental statecraft and security? The program is free and open to the pub- lic. There will be a reception and refresh- ments immediately following the program and question-and-answer session. Parking is available in Renaissance Park Garage and other campus parking facilities. If taking MBTA, venue is near Ruggles station. For more information about the panel dis- cussion, contact NAASR at [email protected]. 8 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS AMAA Centennial Banquet: A Dazzling and Memorable Celebration

CENTENNIAL, from page 5 the finish line in California exactly 12 months He pointed out the unique AMAA accom- from now,” he declared with emphasis, after plishments from the days of the Genocide, to which an AMAA video was presented focusing the time of the 1988 earthquake, the indepen- on the children, schools, and the summer dence of Armenia and United Nations member- camps in Armenia, Lebanon, Syria and the U.S. ship, the victorious liberation of Artsakh, and Delighting the audience were mezzo soprano the massive Syrian relief efforts in Aleppo and Hasmik Meikhanedjian and pianist and com- Damascus. poser Hayk Arsenyan, two New York-based Dr. Hovanessian thoughtfully recounted that musicians who have performed in many venues. the AMAA is “strongly nationalistic but empha- Meikhanedjian with heartfelt emotion sang a sizes education and social services, has a heart number of well-known Armenian songs, accom- but with the Christian spirit in it.” Then para- panied by Arsenyan who also played solos, phrasing Movses Khorenatzi, he said, “Born by including a passionate rendition of mortals, may the AMAA be eternal.” Khatchaturyan’s Sabre Dance. AMAA President Dr. Nazareth Darakjian recounted a brief history of the AMAA, and the BANQUET HIGHLIGHT “immense sacrifice” of giants Stephen Well known California educator and former Philibosian, Rev. Dr. Giragos Chopourian and AMAA President Dr. Joseph Zeronian, and for- Rev. Dr. Movses Janbazian and the “precious mer AMAA Board Vice President Peter legacy” that needs to be passed on to future Kougasian, assistant district attorney under generations. New York District Attorney Robert “The common theme of the organization is Morgenthau, introduced the honorees, Edward children, from the orphan and child care spon- and Pamela Avedisian. From left, Zaven Khanjian, Doreen Bilezikian and Dr. Nazareth Darakjian sorships to the Milk Fund, to the summer Zeronian referred to his mother, who grew up camps, to the after-school day centers, to the in a German orphanage in Kharpert, as his Avedisian School in Armenia and all the inspiration. He focused on the crucial impor- where his speech was recorded, he recalled that In recognition of the great philanthropy by Armenian Evangelical schools in the Near East tance of education which “followed the tradi- on a special family trip to the Mekhitarist both the Avedisians and the Bilezikians, special and the US.” The work also extends to the tion of the Bible and those dedicated mission- Monastery on Venice’s San Lazzaro Island, a handmade gifts were presented to them. AMAA youth, young adults, the students of Haigazian aries.” He pointed out the tremendous accom- non-Armenian tour guide told his son, “You President Dr. Nazareth Darakjian presented the University, college scholarships, and the plishments of the Avedisians who for the past should study a subject until you love it, because Avedisians with a Michael Aram-designed gift of rebuilding of the churches in Armenia, Artsakh, 20 years have “enhanced the education in only then will it become a model of God’s love. Noah’s Ark, and AMAA Executive Syria and the entire Armenian Diaspora, he Armenia, with the building of the best school in That is the foundation upon which the Director/CEO Zaven Khanjian gave Doreen said. the Malatya-Sepastya district, Yerevan’s poorest Avedisian School is built,” Mr. Kougasian Bilezikian a painting depicting the Bilezikians. To accomplish these goals, the AMAA has community, as well as several other projects. emphasized. “And when the Avedisians did this, The honorees and the AMAA President and committed itself to a Centennial Fundraising “They have followed the principle that it is more Armenia already had free public school educa- Khanjian delivered the closing remarks, in Campaign to raise $20 million. He stated that blessed to give than to receive,” he stated. tion, and the highest literacy rate of any coun- which he expressed his appreciation to all try in the world.” involved in this celebration. Khanjian, who has The Avedisians created the School for excel- served as Chairman of the West Coast’s lence, Kougasian continued. “This school repre- Armenia Fund, Americans for Artsakh, and the sents a different mission, a belief that is pecu- Merdinian Evangelical School Board, also liarly Armenian. It is the belief that true excel- founded and directed the Syrian Armenian lence in education can lead the sensitive soul Relief Fund (SARF). on a path to God.” The evening came to a conclusion with the The Avedisians, in expressing their apprecia- Hayr Mer sung by all, and the benediction recit- tion, stated that the AMAA is the “major factor ed by Rev. Dr. Vahan H. Tootikian, Armenian in projecting Armenia into the 21st century, but Evangelical World Council (AEWC) Executive there still is a tremendous need to expand into Director. many areas.” AEWC President Rev. Berdj Djambazian Edward Avedisian then introduced honorees voiced the emotions of many when he said, “I Charles (posthumously) and Doreen Bilezikian saw one thing that has never died, or vanished in who renovated the Avedisian School and play- the last 100 years, that of compassion, the abili- ground in Shushi. Doreen Bilezikian described ty to enter the skin of hurting, suffering people, the “deplorable conditions” in the Women’s feel the pain and come up with a remedy. The Hospital in Yerevan, another renovation project AMAA started, and continues to this day, imple- undertaken by the Bilezikians. menting this compassion through God.”

Armenian Assembly Calls for Public Congressional From left, Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanian, Ronald Altoon, Ambassador to the U.S. Grigor Hovhanissian Hearings on Turkish Interference WASHINGTON — Amid reports that the billions it has spent in the “Laundromat the campaign, which started a year ago, has To the surprise of many, an inspiring example Department of Justice Special Counsel Robert scheme” to buy silence. Investigations are now already reached 35 percent of its goal. With this of courage was displayed by Kougasian who Mueller will be filing new indictments after bearing fruit. The Assembly has also urged banquet initiating the momentum which will go came to the podium, but due to a neurological probing a potential quid pro quo scheme, with some success those Representatives who around the world, the AMAA hopes to “reach problem, was unable to speak. In a digital text whereby then National Security Adviser joined the Turkish and Azeri Caucuses to Michael Flynn would be paid $15 million to withdraw. secretly carry out Turkey’s bidding, the “The latest news regarding secret payments Armenian Assembly of America calls for to Michael Flynn to carry out Turkey’s bidding Sheriff Koutoujian Participates in Armenian Church Congressional hearings to fully expose these are just the tip of the iceberg,” stated Assembly matters. Flynn was already paid $530,000 last Co-Chairs Anthony Barsamian and Van Clergy Webinar Focused on Opioid Crisis year for work the Justice Department says ben- Krikorian. “Illegal Turkish and Azerbaijani efited the government of Turkey without regis- money has been flowing into D.C. and we have WEBINAR, from page 1 tering as a foreign agent at the time. an obligation to immediately stop these cor- educational forum,” said Koutoujian. “This crisis is devastating communities and families The Assembly has repeatedly highlighted rupting practices. Beyond thorough investiga- across the country and we all have a role to play in stemming its tide.” Turkey’s attempts to gain surreptitious influ- tions and indictments, exposure through public Koutoujian said that 42 percent of all new individuals admitted to his facility last year ence over US officials and media to the detri- hearings and legislative reform to increase required medical detox — more than 2,000 individuals. The vast majority required treatment ment of US national security, and has urged reporting and penalties are necessary to stop for opioids or a combination of substances including opioids. investigations therein. House Oversight and officials who can be bought by the Erdogans In an effort to help those struggling with opioid use disorders, Koutoujian created the Government Reform Committee Member, and Aliyevs of the world from hijacking the Medication Assisted Treatment and Directed Opioid Recovery (MATADOR) program. The vol- Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), in a American government,” they added. “Members untary six-month, post-release program combines use of a long-lasting injectable form of nal- June 2017 op-ed in The Hill titled “Did ought not to associate themselves with such trexone with support from a sheriff’s office staff member. This staff member, based on the Turkey’s payments to Michael Flynn delay our corrupt and authoritarian regimes. Given patient navigator model found in the healthcare industry, serves a critical support role in military operations against ISIS?” stated that Turkey’s treatment of Christians, dangerously counseling program participants. “questions regarding Turkey, however, reveal rogue behavior, denial of the Armenian Koutoujian’s efforts through the MATADOR program led the National Institute of most clearly how personal considerations may Genocide and support for Azerbaijan’s ISIS- Corrections (NIC) has designated the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office as a Center of Innovation. have overridden our national interests.” In style beheadings and other attacks, it is well Through the first two years of the program, 97 participants have successfully completed six addition, the Assembly has also highlighted past time for Members of Congress to withdraw months, with just seven percent of those having a new conviction. Azerbaijan’s attempts to undermine western their membership from the Turkish and Azeri democratic values and institutions through Congressional Caucuses.” S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 9 COMMUNITY NEWS AMAA Holds 98th Annual Meeting in New Jersey and Elects New Board Members for the Class of 2020

PARAMUS, N.J. — The 98th Annual Meeting nizations shared their reports, their joys and and related activities of the Armenian concerns and praised God for another success- Missionary Association of America (AMAA) ful year. Before the conclusion of the meeting, took place in New Jersey, October 19-22. Dr. Darakjian announced the results of the elec- On Thursday, October 20, two lectures were tion for the AMAA Board Class of 2020: presented on the occasion of the 500th Edward Avedisian (MA), Nazareth Darakjian, Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. The MD. (CA), Thomas Momjian, Esq. (PA), Jack event, which took place at the Armenian Muncherian (CA), Vahe Nalbandian, Ph.D. (CA), Presbyterian Church in Paramus, NJ, was Alan Philibosian, Esq. (NJ), Gary Phillips, Esq. attended by over 50 pastors, AMAA members, (CA), Ann Karagozian Sarafian, Ph.D. (CA) and Board members, and staff from The United Eileen Chopourian Stephey, Ed.D. (PA). States and abroad. The highlight of the weekend was the sold- Rev. Dr. Carnegie Calian, past president of out Centennial Celebratory Banquet on the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, lectured Saturday evening, where close 400 guests came on “The Impact of the Reformation on together to celebrate the Centennial of the Christianity and the World.” He examined the AMAA and honor two distinguished cou- impact of Martin Luther’s movement and pre- ples: Edward and Pamela Avedisian and sented the socio-political, psychological and the- Doreen and Charles (posthumously) Bilezikian. ological factors that played out in the early The weekend culminated with a Worship years of the Reformation. Luther’s main theme Service held in the sanctuary of the Armenian was “repent,” which meant to change and move Presbyterian Church of Paramus. out of one’s comfort zone. A special moment of remembrance to honor Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian, executive director the memory of those members and friends of of the Armenian Evangelical World Council and Rev. Dr. Carnegie Calian addresses the assembled. the association, who made the transition from a prolific author, spoke on the “Dawn of the this life to Life Eternal during the past year, was Armenian Evangelical Church and its Impact led by AMAA Board member Rev. Ara on the Armenian Nation.” He began his pre- of all believers, the importance of lay men and On Friday evening, the AMAA held its regular Guekguezian. The Armenian message, with the sentation by discussing the various 19th-centu- women, the liberty of individuals and the ulti- Board of Directors meeting. Both meetings were theme of “The Harvest is Plenty, But the ry factors that ushered in the Armenian mate authority of the Bible. The last part of his held at the AMAA Headquarters in Paramus. Workers are Few,” was offered by Rev. Joseph Evangelical movement in the first half of the lecture focused on the contribution of the The 98th Annual Meeting of the Association Garabedian, pastor of the First Armenian century – the intellectual enlightenment among Armenian Evangelical movement in the fields of was held on Saturday morning at the Teaneck Church of Belmont, Mass. Rev. Dr. Avedis Armenians, various educational institutions education, evangelism, and leadership. Marriot at Glenpointe. AMAA President Dr. Boynerian, pastor of the Armenian Memorial and the support of missionaries. This was fol- The Executive Board of the Armenian Nazareth Darakjian presided over the meeting, Church of Watertown, offered the English ser- lowed by the key elements of the movement: Evangelical World Council (AEWC) held its meet- which was attended by 100 members and mon with the theme “Faithful to Our Legacy.” Personal relationship with God, the priesthood ing on Thursday evening and Friday morning. guests. Delegates of Armenian Evangelical Tootikian brought the service to its culmina- Churches, Unions, Armenian Evangelical World tion with the installation of the newly-elected Council, AMAA Committees and affiliated orga- AMAA Board members.

The installation of the newly-elected AMAA board

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK The annual meeting 10 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection Debi Arach Children’s Center Welcomes Celebrates 76th Anniversary US Congressional Delegation NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — The Armenian Church Kapriel Mouradjian, who celebrated his 14th year BERKELY, Calif. And , Armenia — On September 21, the Debi Arach Children’s of the Holy Resurrection of New Britain celebrat- in New Britain, and Parish Council Chairman Center welcomed U.S. Representatives Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Jackie Speier (D-CA) on ed its 76th anniversary at the Church on Sunday, Arthur G. Simonian. Armenia’s Independence Day. The delegation toured the facility while children studied in November 12. Robbin Haboian Demircan and Mouradjian introduced the guest celebrant and their classrooms. They then met with young men and women who have recently complet- Ellen Hovanessian served as Anniversary speaker, the Very Rev. Anania Tsaturyan of the ed their military service and are now enrolled in the vocational training classes in web Planning Committee co-chairs. Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin in Armenia. design and computer programming at Debi Arach. The theme of the anniversary dinner was Two longtime parishioners, Henrietta Kallajian “I am very impressed with the quality and dedication of the teachers and staff manag- “Giving Thanks” with many reminiscences of all and Roxie Maljanian, were honored for their ing this institution,” said Eshoo (D- those who had worked so hard to establish the many contributions over the years. CA). “Clearly good things are happen- church and construct its beautiful building on Musical selections were provided by soloist Dian ing here for these vulnerable children Stanley Street. Numerous Church committees Erikian accompanied by Susan Sagherian. One of in Gyumri.” and organizations contributing to the vitality of the selections, Vartan, was composed by the late Roger Strauch, Founder and the Church were recognized, as were Church vet- Harry Badrigian a longtime Church member. Chairman of the Paros Foundation erans. Gary Hovanessian and John Paul Abrahamian received the delegation and hosted Attorney Harry Mazadoorian served as master reported on the success of the annual Godparent the tour of the facility with the of ceremonies. Comments on the church and its and all Donors of the Church financial campaign Center’s director, Aida Khatchatryan. role in Central Connecticut were offered by Rev. associated with the dinner. Other guests joining the congression- al delegation for the tour included Shirak Governor Arthur Khatchatryan, Armenian Ambassador to the United States Grigor Hovhannissian, Armenia Fund Inc. U.S. Representatives Anna Eshoo and Jackie Chairperson Maria Mehranian, Speier speaking with the children at Debi Arach Hayastan All Armenia Fund Children’s Center during their visit. Executive Director Ara Vardanyan, Congresswoman Jackie Speier Chief of Staff Josh Connolly and Impact Hub Programs and Events Assistant Nune Harutyunyan. “I am so proud to be here today,” said Speier (D-CA). “My friends and constituents have created something very special at Debi Arach, which has deftly maximized the support they receive to achieve amazing results. Their work should be used as a model on how to make the maximum impact in the most cost effective manner for the people of Armenia. With our continued support and oversight, I am certain Debi Arach will continue to benefit these children, as well as the adult school trainees.” Established by the Paros Foundation in 2015, the Debi Arach Children’s Center provides more than 150 children with the academic, psychological, social and humanitarian support they need for a brighter future and to break the cycle of poverty. All services are offered free of charge. Children attending the Center are primarily from families living in dilapi- dated temporary housing or “domiks” left from the 1988 Spitak earthquake. Debi Arach operates as an after-school program for school-aged children six days a week. From left, Arthur G. Simonian, Parish Council Chair, Very Rev. Anania Tsatunyan, Rev. Kapriel Mouradjian Mark Samuelian Elected to Miami Beach City Commission

promoted the rights and interests of residents By Joey Flechas over those of special interests and as your city commissioner, I intend to lead that way.” Before this year’s campaign, Samuelian served MIAMI BEACH (Miami Herald) — Miami as president of a prominent civic group, Miami Beach voters chose a political newbie and a Beach United, where he still serves as a board familiar face to join the City Commission in director. He played a role in opposing a light-rail Tuesday, November 7 municipal election. project that eventually stalled at the City Former commissioner Michael Góngora was Commission amid increasing public opposition. voted back into office in the Group 3 race He has stated that a group of experts and res- against Adrian Gonzalez, owner of David’s Cafe. idents should be formed to scrutinize the city’s For the Group 2 seat, private investor Mark approach to flood mitigation, echoing Mayor- Samuelian bested real estate broker Rafael elect Dan Gelber. He wants to prioritize placing Velasquez, who has been mired in accusations permanent backup generators on existing anti- of sexual impropriety by three women, includ- flooding pumps. ing Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, a sitting commis- Samuelian and Velasquez were candidates for sioner and his former ally. the seat held by Michael Grieco, who withdrew Góngora, 47, has had a taste for local politics first from his mayoral candidacy and then his for at least a decade. He served a short stint on re-election bid after a campaign finance scandal. the commission in 2006-07 before being elected The campaign grew contentious toward the to a four-year term in 2009. He lost the 2013 end. Velasquez criticized Samuelian for previ- mayoral election to Philip Levine, who now is ously being registered as a Republican and running for governor. donating to a political action committee co- A condo attorney with Becker & Poliakoff, founded by GOP Sen. Ted Cruz. Samuelian, Góngora also ran unsuccessfully for the District who currently has no party affiliation, respond- 38 seat in the Florida Senate in 2016. ed by saying the donation was in the past and On Tuesday, he celebrated his lopsided victo- he no longer shares the views of the Republican ry from the Betsy Hotel on Ocean Drive in Party. South Beach. But Velasquez entered Election Day fighting “It feels very special to be elected and espe- accusations of sexual harassment. cially to be elected by such a wide margin,” he Last week, Rosen Gonzalez accused him of said. exposing himself to her after the two went to Gonzalez said he was proud of his “grass- dinner in October. Two more women came for- roots campaign” and congratulated all of the ward. A local publicist said he groped her at a winners. public event and sent suggestive text messages All of the winners will be sworn into office afterwards. Another woman said he made inap- Monday, but for Samuelian, 53, it will be his propriate comments while she and Velasquez first time. He lost his bid for commission in ran together on a slate of potential Democratic 2015, when Commissioner John Elizabeth delegates supporting Hillary Clinton. Alemán garnered 77 more votes than he did in Following the revelations, his entire cam- a tight race. paign staff resigned and the local Democratic In a statement, Samuelian said it was “very party stopped campaigning on his behalf and humbling” to be elected to public office. called for him to drop out of the race. Velasquez “This election reaffirmed that we need elected denied he had exposed himself or groped the officials that are not beholden to the undue influ- woman. He apologized only for offending the ence of special interests groups,” he said. “As an women with his comments, which he called active civic leader, over the years I have tirelessly “compliments,” and continued to campaign. S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 11 12 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Ninth AGBU 20th Arpa International Performing Artists Film Festival Celebration Wraps with Touching and In Concert Raises Emotional Tributes More than $50,000 HOLLYWOOD — The 20th Arpa International Film Festival and Awards Gala was full of mem- NEW YORK — On November 3, hundreds of orable moments this year. An unprecedented guests gathered at the Weill Recital Hall in number of guests attended the three-day film Carnegie Hall to listen to the ninth Armenian festival, held at the historic Egyptian Theatre General Benevolent Union (AGBU) Performing November 3 to 5. The opening night program Artists in Concert. Dedicated to the 85th featuring the French biopic “Dalida” was sold to anniversary of the Union of Composers of capacity, as were the centerpiece films “Intent Armenia, the concert, the flagship event of the to Destroy” and “Dead on Arrival” on Saturday AGBU New York Special Events Committee evening. (NYSEC), raised more than $50,000 for the The celebratory weekend closed with a spec- AGBU performing arts initiatives worldwide. tacular sold-out Awards Gala held at the Loews This year, along with young musicians, the Hollywood Hotel on Sunday, November 5. Over concert featured tenor Berj Karazian, an 400 guests attended the special 20th anniver- Honored Artist of Armenia and a soloist of the sary evening hosted by filmmaker Eric Nazarian Yerevan State Opera Theater, and conductor (“The Blue Hour,” “Bolis,” “Three Christs,” and pianist Vahan Mardirossian, who served as “The Sandcastle Girls”). The program included the artistic director of the concert. special musical performances by theremin virtu- “Carnegie Hall is a dream stage for many Salpi and Sossy Kerkonian performing oso Armen Ra and vocalist Mister X. musicians,” said Berj Karazian who studied at Awards were presented to the five winning the AGBU Lazar Najarian-Calouste Gulbenkian films in the Best Shorts, Best Documentary, School growing up in Aleppo, Syria, and later Best Screenplay, Best Director and Best Feature received a scholarship from AGBU to master Tekeyan Glendale-Pasadena categories. Honorees Terry George, Carl his vocal skills at the Yerevan State Weathers, Alexander Dinelaris and Chris Conservatory. “It is important that tonight’s Cornell (posthumously) were given touching concert features Armenian artists from all over Observes Cultural Month tributes, along with one-of-a-kind gifts. the world who have had AGBU’s support for Special guests throughout the weekend ALTADENA, Calif. — The month of October was declared “Cultural Month” by years.” included Serj Tankian, Angela Sarafyan, Billy Catholicos Karekin I of the Great House of Cilicia. Also, the Feast of the “Holy AGBU Performing Arts Scholarship recipi- Flynn, Barbara Carrera, Ara Keshishian, Ken Translators” is observed every year ents from Armenia, France, Lebanon, Davitian, Stephen C. Sepher, Rory Fradella, on the second Saturday of October Switzerland and the United States, including Nazo Bravo, Lillo Brancato and Scottie by the Armenian Apostolic Church. Tamar Eskenian (shvi/flute), Lusiné By Kevork Keushkerian Thompson. Thus, October becomes significant in Harutyunyan (violin), Ani Karapetyan (violin), Academy Award-winning screenwriter-director the Armenian calendar and accord- Albert Newberry (piano), Cara Pogossian Terry George (“The Promise,” “In the Name of ingly cultural organizations schedule events to recognize the importance of culture. (viola), Edvard Pogossian (cello), and Matthew the Father,” “,” “The Shore,” Tekeyan Cultural Association’s Glendale-Pasadena Chapter organized a per- Taylor (dance), formed this year’s ensemble. “Some Mother’s Son”) received the Armin T. forming arts event that took place on Sunday, October 29, at Tekeyan’s They are students or graduates of well-known Wegner Humanitarian Award named after the Beshgeturian Center. The event included songs, solos and a duet, a poetic recita- German soldier/medic who was stationed in tion and a rendition of instrumental music, involving a flute and a harp. the Ottoman Empire during the Armenian The first performing artist, Kerbabian, studied voice for three years at Genocide and documented the atrocities he wit- Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires. He has been involved in many productions of Lark nessed in photographs. The award, was awarded Musical Society, and is the current soloist of the United Armenian Congregational to Terry George in recognition of his extensive Church choir. He sang two songs by Robert Amirkhanian and Alexi Hekimian. body of films that have shed light on the situation The second performer of the evening, Arpy Aintablian, attended the in his native , the Rwandan Hamazkayin Parsegh Ganatchian College of Music and the Lebanese National Genocide, and the Armenian Genocide. Higher Conservatory of Music in Beirut. She has extensive concert experience George also received a unique khachkar with Pasadena’s “Peace Through Music” and “Midsummer Night Under the Stars” (stone-cross) sculpted by local artist Hrach benefit concerts. Currently, she is the children’s choir director of the United Gukasyan. The tradition of etching crosses on Armenian Congregational Church of Los Angeles. stone is unique to the Armenian and Irish Lusiné Harutyunyan (violin), Ani Karapetyan After her rendition of two songs by Komitas and Mkrtchyan, Kerbabian joined nations. A special khachkar with a Celtic cross (violin), Albert Newberry (piano), Vahan her for a duet, which mesmerized the audience. An encore was then granted to surrounded by Armenian motifs was commis- Madirossian (piano), Tamar Eskenian please the more than one hundred attendees of this unique cultural event. sioned by Arpa, symbolizing the Armenian peo- (shvi/flute), Edvard Pogossian (cello) and Cara Asdghig Torosian-Dadourian’s role in the program was poetic recitation. She ple’s gratitude to the Irish filmmaker. Pogossian (viola). recited in an eloquent and dramatic manner from Kevork Emin and Vahan Carl Weathers, the beloved actor best known Tekeyan. Her renditions were highly appreciated by everyone present at the event. for his portrayal of Apollo Creed in the Rocky To conclude the program, there was an extraordinary musical selection presented by series, was the recipient of Arpa’s Lifetime educational institutions, such as Haute École flutist Salpy Kerkonian and harpist Sossy Kerkonian of “Heavenly Chants.” Achievement Award. Weathers has also starred de Musique in Lausanne, the Yerevan State Salpy Kerkonian has received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the in films such as “Predator,” “Action Jackson,” Conservatory, London’s Royal Academy of University of Southern California. She has appeared both with tenors Luciano “Hurricane Smith,” “Happy Gilmore” and Music, Mannes School of Music in New York, Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli on their respective world tours. Sossy Kerkonian, on “Little Nicky.” Presenting the Lifetime the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, the other hand, has received her degree in music from Los Angeles City College. Achievement Award to the legendary actor was the Juilliard School and the New York The mother and daughter duo played popular music from Komitas and award-winning writer/producer Jason Wilborn, University Tisch School of the Arts. Khatchadour Avedissian. Their highlight was Aznavour’s La Boheme, which they best known for his work on “Queen Sugar,” “For the first time this year, we expanded the had also played earlier that month, when Aznavour was given the honor of a Star “Brothers and Sisters” and “American Dreams.” scope of the AGBU Performing Artists in on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Much to the pleasure of all who attended, this Weathers received a special personalized Concert introducing an interdisciplinary col- October Cultural event was an evening of high quality artistic performance. laboration with a dancer,” said Hayk Arsenyan, authentic championship boxing belt designed director of the AGBU Performing Arts and gifted by SARTONK, originator of the mod- Department. “By featuring the new generation ern boxing belt. Edward Majian’s SARTONK of talented Armenian artists, the concert cre- was founded based on the designs of his grand- ates artistic opportunities for performers and father Ardash Sahagian’s boxing belts which builds enduring bonds for future collabora- serve as the blueprint for all of today’s champi- tion.” onship boxing and MMA belts. The eclectic program comprised favorites of This year’s Lifetime Legacy Award was Western classical and Armenian music, includ- posthumously awarded to music icon Chris ing Beethoven, Chopin, Dvorák, Schuman, Cornell, whose life came to a tragic end early Tigranyan and Mirzoyan. It also included three this year. Cornell, best known as the lead vocal- premieres: Waltz by Aram Satyan, president of ist for the rock bands Soundgarden and the Union of Composers of Armenia, who spe- Audioslave, as well as the founder and frontman cially arranged the piece for the chamber of Temple of the Dog, was also a human rights ensemble of the evening, Newberry’s Shalakho activist committed to the world refugee crisis and Alexandr Iradyan’s Frames. The latter and the despair of vulnerable children. The earned Iradyan the special Carnegie Hall Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter’s Award in the 2016 AGBU Sayat Nova Raffi Kerbabian and Arpy Aintablian sing a duet last solo release was the charity single The International Composition Competition. The Promise, written for the motion picture of the dazzling evening captivated the audience, same name. drawing a standing ovation. see ARPA, page 14 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING ‘Ardent Nature: NY Exhibition of Arshile Gorky Landscapes’ Presented in New York

NEW YORK — “Ardent Nature. Arshile Gorky ing works from this period, filled with organic Landscapes, 1943 – 47,” is Hauser & Wirth’s forms and infused with extraordinary expres- inaugural presentation of works by Arshile sive freedom, are among the most moving of Gorky, a seminal figure in the shift to abstrac- Gorky’s career. tion that transformed twentieth-century Curated by Saskia Spender, the artist’s American art. By the early 1940s, Gorky had granddaughter and President of the Arshile already begun to liberate himself from artistic Gorky Foundation, the exhibition features over convention, forging a powerful, if enigmatic, fifty landscapes – including paintings and visual language that built upon the freewheel- works on paper — from this critical time in the ing lyricism of Surrealism and anticipated the artist’s life and work. “Ardent Nature” is the concerns of Abstract Expressionism. His break- first New York exhibition exclusively dedicated through came in the summer of 1943, during to the artist’s mature works, and presents an extended stay at Crooked Run Farm, the Gorky at the very height of his artistic powers. Virginia homestead owned by his wife’s parents. Gorky’s time at Crooked Run Farm marked a Here, the artist became enchanted by the bucol- profound reawakening of his connection to ic surroundings, and his response to the fields, nature. During his first summer in the country- blooms, patterns, and colors around him began side in 1943 (he would return for extended to manifest in vibrant compositions. The result- stays in 1944 and the summer of 1946), Gorky spent day after day in the open pastures, producing scores of “plein air” draw- ings. Infatuated with his surroundings, he discovered the complexities of natural forms. The trees, milkweed, Untitled, 1944—1945, Pencil and crayon on paper, 44.5 x 59.1 cm / 17 1/2 x 23 1/4 in, (© 2017 haystacks, and brackish The Arshile Gorky Foundation / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York, Photo: Christopher Burke river were rife with activity, Studio) and served as points of departure for new works. It was here, among the flora objects themselves. Returning to sometimes interior and the recessive spaces of the work, and fauna, that Gorky revis- idealized memories of his early life on the culminating in a sense that the paintings were ited his early experiments shores of Lake Van, in Ottoman Anatolia, Gorky created from the center, simultaneously with automatic drawing, incorporated fragments from his childhood into inwards and outwards. Gorky’s highly personal courting free associations the reality of his surroundings. In this confla- form was crystallized in these works, where his with nature and its endless tion of truth, memory, and desire, the observa- own “otherness” empowered him to forge a metamorphoses. tional yields to an essence rendered in vivid, unique place in the history of art. In these primal responses incandescent auras that reverberate within out- In Gorky’s 1943 work on paper, “Untitled Pastoral, 1947, Oil on canvas, 111.8 x 144.2 cm / 44 x 56 3/4 in to nature, Gorky granted as lined forms, as seen in the magnificent (Virginia Landscape),” biomorphic symbols, (© 2017 The Arshile Gorky Foundation / Artists Rights Society much presence to the rela- “Waterfall,” (ca. 1943), on loan from the swollen and rounded, allude to botanical or (ARS), New York, Photographer unknown) tionships between the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. His human sex organs, and are complemented with objects he observed as the compositions seemingly pulsate between the wiry lines evocative of vines or stamen. In his later work, such as the masterful “Gray Drawing for Pastoral” (ca.1946 – 1947), these instinctive symbols – still amorphous and sug- gestive – harden into something of a personal Celebrating 80th vocabulary comprised of distinct recurring forms. Gorky often used his works on paper as stud- ies, shifting configurations and colors before Birthday of Yuri further interpreting a composition on canvas. His process of intense contemplation and refinement rarely left anything to chance, yet Sahakyan the resulting works brimmed with a sense of immediacy and spontaneous energy. This char- acteristic mix of restraint and wild abandon can YEREVAN — This year the literary circles of Armenia celebrate the be seen in his two “Pastoral” paintings from 80th anniversary of famous Armenia poet and translator Yuri 1947, where Gorky’s gestural planes of color Sahakyan. give shape to the negative space and seem to Yerevan-based Sahakyan was born in 1937 in the village of Chaylu emerge from within the canvas. Alternatively, in in the Mardakert district of Nagorno Karabakh, today’s Republic of the related large-scale drawings, Gorky takes a Artsakh. He lost his parents in early childhood. Sahakyan served in more reductive approach, by covering his paper Soviet Army from 1957 to 1960. In 1966 Sahakyan graduated from with a thin ground of charcoal and carving out Yerevan State University, department of philology, and in 1967 start- the shapes with an eraser until they emerge ed working at Hayreniki Dzayn (Voice of Fatherland) weekly newspa- eerily through the smoky ground, a technique per. Later, he studied in Moscow and completed the literary courses that heightens the ambiguous nature of the of the USSR Union of Writers. In 1975, he became the chief editor of vaguely anatomical forms that float across the the Booklovers organization. From 1976 till 1993, Sahakyan worked Yuri Sahakyan page. at Sovetakan Grogh (Soviet Writer), later at Arevik publishing hous- While made at a professional peak, Gorky’s es as a senior editor of children’s literature department. late works are situated within a period of pro- He also translates from Russian, mainly for children. Since 1968, This friend of Poland found personal tragedy. In the two-year span of he has been a member of Writers’ Union of Armenia. Has a friend in Russia. 1946 to 1947, the artist suffered a catastrophic Sahakyan is the winner of the State award of 1999 for the book studio fire, a painful operation for intestinal Alphabet Guide. He is an author of a dozen books of poetry both for This friend of Russia cancer, a debilitating automobile accident, and children and adults. Many of his poems have been translated and pub- Has a friend in Persia. increasing marital troubles. The trauma that lished in Russian, Ukrainian, Serbian, Bulgarian, Polish, Romanian, colored Gorky’s final years inspired shifts English, French, Swedish, Lithuanian, Abkhazian, etc. I am standing by the map towards a bleaker palette and a more abbrevi- Sahakyan’s name is also well known to all who love songs. He And looking with admiration. ated line, and his paintings became increasing- wrote lyrics for many popular songs such as: Arpa Sevan music by And I cannot take my eye ly enigmatic. Edgar Hovhannisyan; Ayl Acher (Other Eyes) music by Eduard Off the Planet named Earth. On view from November 2 through Tumanyan; Sharunakir Jptal (Keep on Smiling) music by Robert December 23 at Hauser & Wirth New York, 32 Amirkhanyan; Khutut-Mutut (Tickling), Hovik-hovik (Little Breeze) If one day I stretch out my hand E. 69th Street, the exhibition is accompanied music by Tigran Mansuryan, etc. And hold the hand of my friend, by a richly illustrated publication, Ardent Below is a new translation of a poem by Yuri Sahakyan, done by And he stretches out his hand Nature. Arshile Gorky Landscapes, 1943 – 47, Yerevan-based philologist, historian and translator Artsvi And hold the hand of his friend, from Hauser & Wirth Publishers. The book fea- Bakhchinyan. This whole beautiful world tures newly commissioned contributions by Will appear in our hands... Saskia Spender and Edith Devaney, Senior I Am the Friend of Your Friend Curator at the Royal Academy of Arts, London. To My Bulgarian friend, And mentally I violate Additionally, on November 21, at 7 p.m., a Krassin Himmirsky All the borders, near and far, screening of the film “Without Gorky” (2011), I cross the seas, I cross the lands directed by Cosima Spender will take place at The Bulgarian friend of mine And travel in villages and towns. the Hauser & Wirth Publishers Bookshop at Has a friend in Greece. Whomever I see on my way 22nd Street in NY in connection with the exhi- I greet them warmly as a friend. bition. This friend of Greece “Here’s my hand, my dear friend, For more information, see Has a friend in Poland. I am the friend of your friend.” https://www.hauserwirth.com/exhibi- tions/3321/ardent-nature-arshile-gorky-land- scapes-1943y47/view/. 14 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Recipe Corner by Christine Vartanian Armenian Chicken, Rice and Lemon Soup

INGREDIENTS 4 cups fresh or canned chicken broth (turkey broth may be substituted) 4 cups water 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded or diced (or any cooked chicken) 1/2 medium onion, minced 2 stalks celery, diced 1 medium carrot, diced 3/4 cup basmati rice or a large handful of crushed vermicelli (or egg noodles) Juice of 2 lemons and zest from 1 lemon The cover of the 2018 Project SAVE calendar 2 eggs, beaten Dried crushed mint and chopped parsley 1 teaspoon sea or Kosher salt Project SAVE ‘Our Armenian Journey’ Black or white pepper and paprika 2018 Calendar Goes on Sale Sliced lemons PREPARATION: WATERTOWN — Stories of refugees fleeing Graphic Artist Vartus Varadian has designed In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and water to a full boil. Season with salt their homes have dominated headlines the calendar in a way that invites the viewer to and pepper, add the rice or vermicelli, onion, celery and carrot, and cook over medi- recently, with many from cities like Aleppo investigate what the photographs represent. um heat until rice is tender, about 20-22 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the that are familiar to Armenians. Project SAVE, Project SAVE’s calendar is the organization’s shredded chicken, stir a few times, and cook for 10 minutes longer until fully com- perceiving the tragic similarities to events of major fundraising effort, supporting ongoing bined. a century ago, seeks to share the narratives work of collecting, documenting, and preserv- Beat the eggs with the lemon juice in a medium bowl for a few minutes until frothy, stir in 1/2 cup of the soup broth, and then gradually pour the egg mixture of Armenians’ journeys from our own ing photographs of all subjects and periods into soup; season to taste. Add the lemon zest, if desired, and stir constantly taking archives, illuminated with multiple photos. relating to Armenian people. care that broth does not curdle. Remove from heat when soup is hot. The selected images illustrate Armenian Calendar Sponsors are acknowledged in each Garnish with parsley, dried crushed mint, paprika and sliced lemons. Serve with immigrants’ and refugees’ struggles and month with their short messages of honor or Armenian madzoon or Greek yogurt, a crusty Italian or French bread or warm pita accomplishments as they assimilate and con- remembrance of family, friends, and heroes who bread on the side. tribute to their adopted societies, while main- have contributed to the Armenian Journey. Serves 4-6. taining their identity. Calendars make great Christmas gifts for fam- The 2018 calendar, with the theme “Our ily and friends. They will be mailed out right *Christine's recipes have been published in the Fresno Bee newspaper, Sunset Armenian Journey,” pays tribute to those who after Thanksgiving, or can be picked up in our magazine, Cooking Light magazine, and at http://www.thearmeniankitchen.com/ face hardships, separations, and reunions dur- Watertown Square office. To order, visit ing their journey. www.projectsave.org.

20th Arpa International Film Festival Celebration Wraps with Touching and Emotional Tributes

ARPA, from page 12 The award was presented by two-time cally on November 10 at the following loca- Skopje,” (Macedonia/Croatia/Finland, Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Golden Globe nominated actress Barbara tions: (Laemmle’s Playhouse in Pasadena; 2016), Writers: Dusan Jovanovic, Rade Cornell Family was unable to attend the gala. Carrera who starred in close to 40 movies, Pacific Theaters 18 in Glendale at the Serbedzija, Danilo Serbedzija There to accept the Lifetime Legacy Award including the James Bond film “Never Say Americana at Brand; Village East Cinema in “The Liberation of Skopje,” captures the on behalf of the family was actress Angela Never Again,” “The Island of Dr. Moreau” New York City. horrors and suffering of the Second World Sarafyan (“Westworld,” “The Promise”), a and “Embryo.” Best Short Film – “Mariam’s Day Off” War, portrayed in bittersweet terms through recipient of the Arpa Rising Star Award in “Dalida” is an intimate portrait based on (Armenia, 2016) the eyes of 11-year-old Zoran whose father 2014. Sarafyan was visibly moved after a the real story of a strong, fiercely indepen- The Award was presented by actor Yancey has joined the partisans to fight the German touching tribute reel to Cornell and empha- dent woman whose 30-year dazzling career Arias from the NBC series Kingpin and the FX occupiers and whose mother becomes sized his philanthropic and humanitarian was punctuated by tragic events, with no less series Thief. Arshak Amirbekyan’s film, shot in involved with a German officer. efforts. A specially-commissioned portrait of than three of her lovers committing suicide. Armenia, is about a young prostitute who meets Best Direction – “H.O.M.E” (USA, 2016) Cornell was gifted by artist Emil Kazaz and With over 170 million albums sold, Dalida an artist in a park, gets invited to a modeling ses- Director: Daniel Maldonado. “H.O.M.E.” is a presented to Sarafyan. was the first singer to receive platinum and sion and finds herself in a rather new and excit- film about urban communication, alienation Oscar-winning screenwriter Alexander diamond discs, some of her best hits includ- ing world of artists; but when night falls, she has and the human condition. Part lyrical tone Dinelaris, best known for his original screenplay ing Bang Bang, Paroles Paroles and Avec Le to return to her regular life in the park. The poem dedicated to New York City, its com- for the 2014 film “Birdman,” received Arpa’s Temps. Dalida continued to hold concerts Award was accepted by actor/director Ashot prised two stories involving intimate and Career Achievement Award. His body of work until her last days, but her suicide in 1987 Adamyan who stars in the film. meaningful encounters through the lens of a includes numerous theatrical pieces and musi- immortalized her iconic image as a diva and Best Screenplay – “The Liberation of “disconnected” city in constant motion. cals, including “The Bodyguard,” featuring the renowned singer. music of Whitney Houston, and the critically- Best Documentary Film – “Intent to acclaimed “On Your Feet!” Broadway musical Destroy” (USA, 2017): The award was pre- about the life and career of Gloria Estefan. sented to Oscar-nominated and Emmy-win- Alexander Dinelaris’ earlier works include the ning filmmaker by top Eileen powerful play “Red Dog Howls” in which he Ford model Ronnie Carol known for her role SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE touches upon the Armenian Genocide. The as Juliette Bagradian in the movie “40 Days piece was influenced by his Armenian grand- of Musa Dagh” along with a recurring role on Students of Armenian Descent mother, who played an important role in his the soap As the World Turns. younger years. Pulling back the curtain on mass murder Having Completed One Year of College by June 2018 The Award was presented to Dinelaris by censorship in Hollywood due to U.S. govern- Michael Peretzian, with whom he collaborat- ment pressure to appease a strategic ally, Applications and other information may be obtained from: ed with on the play “Red Dog Howls.” “Intent to Destroy” embeds with a historic Peretzian is known for representing many dis- feature film production as a springboard to Armenian Students’ Association tinguished screenwriters and directors, explore the violent history of the Armenian Scholarship Committee including John Madden and Anthony Genocide and legacy of Turkish suppression 333 Atlantic Avenue • Warwick, RI 02888 Minghella. Both Peretzian and Dinelaris in and denial over the past century. their remarks touched upon their Armenian Joe Berlinger’s thirteenth feature docu- Tel. 401-461-6144 • Fax 401-461-6112 ancestry and the need to be more accepting mentary film captures the cinematic and of Americans who come from different ethnic political challenges of producing a historical- email: [email protected] backgrounds. Dinelaris was also presented ly meaningful, big budget feature film in an with a specially engraved Mont Blanc pen environment rife with political suppression Deadline for returning completed applications: March 15, 2018 gifted by Bhindi Jewellers, in recognition of and threats of retaliation. By intertwining his superb writing. these three separate threads the modern-day production of “The Promise,” the history of 2017 Arpa IFF Winning Films the Genocide and the century of internation- Best Feature Film – “Dalida” (France, al repression. 2016) “Intent to Destroy” will be released theatri- LIKE US ON FACEBOOK S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING Jewish and Armenian Artifacts on Display Jointly at Manoogian Museum

MUSEUM, from page 1 tural complex, “there is an important resource Pomeroy thanked Manoogian “for hosting this center for Genocide and Holocaust Studies — it special event celebrating the 25th anniversary is the Edward and Helen Mardigian Library — of the Museum, and for featuring both Jewish built and maintained by the Mardigian family.” and Armenian artifacts and for including the Azadian concluded by stating that “As we cel- Jewish community in this celebration.” He also ebrate the 25th anniversary of the Manoogian expressed his appreciation to James Melikian Museum with an outstanding exhibition featur- for preserving such artifacts. ing Jewish and Armenian artifacts, we also The Very Rev. Aren Jebejian of St. John bring together two peoples who have experi- Armenian Church, said Brazilian, provided a enced the same historic trauma. Jews and “warm welcome to our cultural home — or to Armenians, as survivors, have come together, the ‘Holy Land’ using the words of the late working and struggling for a world without Dyana Kezelian, Lower School Principal of the genocides.” Manoogian School. With the Church, the Sylvie Merian, a librarian at the Pierpont Cultural Hall, the AGBU Alex and Marie Morgan Library in New York (also Editorial

Richard Manoogian and Robert Taubman (Chair, President, and CEO of Taubman Centers, Inc.)

family has been long-time friends of Brazilian. Shlomo Moussaieff. And, yes, I continue to col- Melikian “recalled my visit to the Manoogian lect — whenever there is extra money — thanks Museum several years ago, when I met Richard to my wife’s financial management, I immedi- Manoogian — who is an inspiration in the world ately look for a new artifact to acquire.” of collecting.” Melikian expressed his “apprecia- Melikian also collects other sports memora- tion to Richard Manoogian and to all involved bilia - which includes Mike Tyson’s mink boxing in making this exhibition happen, especially gloves. One of Melikian’s most recent acquisi-

The Very Reverend Father Aren Jebejian of St. John Armenian Church and Congressional Rep. Brenda Lawrence

Manoogian School, the Veterans Building, the Coordinator of A Legacy of Armenian Mardigian Library, and the Manoogian Treasures) was then introduced by Brazilian. Museum all in one complex, it truly is an Merian read from a “modern colophon — writ- Armenian ‘Holy Land.’” ten in the spirit and style of a medieval Brazilian introduced Edmond Azadian, a Armenian colophon....” that she had written member of the Governor’s Council (also senior especially for this special exhibition catalog: adviser to the Manoogian Museum; executive “For the 25th Anniversary of the Alex and editor of A Legacy of Armenian Treasures and Marie Manoogian Museum, the museum was formerly executive assistant to Alex renewed and refreshed, and a special exhibition Manoogian). Azadian acknowledged those who was prepared, through many trials and tribula- were instrumental in the adoption of “Michigan tions. New signs were made, and labels, and a House Bill 4493 - which was adopted by the website, and so much more. . . . and from dis- Michigan legislature and signed into law on tant Arizona beautiful objects were borrowed June 14, 2016 by Governor Rick Snyder. The for the exhibition and brought to the city of Speakers on stage (Left to Right): Richard Manoogian, Keith Pomeroy, the Very Rev. Aren Jebejian of St. John Armenian Church, Edmond Azadian, Sylvie Merian, James Melikian bill requiring teaching of the Armenian Southfield. . . . During the many months it took Genocide, the Jewish Holocaust, and other to update the museum and prepare the exhibi- genocides in Michigan high schools, was spear- tion, many wars took place . . . countless people headed by State Rep. Klint Kesto.” died . . . all because of greed and ignorance. . . Elizabeth Brazilian and Museum Director Lucy tions includes medals of Austrian-Jewish He added, “A 15-member council from the We also suffered through horrendous natural Ardash.” Pentathlon Champion Gerda Gottlieb. She won Jewish and Armenian communities was appoint- disasters, such as three dreadful hurricanes Melikian mentioned that he and his wife, five consecutive Gold Medals in Vienna as win- ed by the Governor to research and implement innocently named Harvey, Irma, and Ana, “have collected over 4,000 artifacts from ner of the 1933-37 National Pentathlon. These a unified curriculum for educators in the state Maria....Also, oh readers and listeners and visi- the world’s major religions — including are on display in this exhibit. And, someday, the of Michigan. The Council is headed by tors, please remember in your heavenward Armenian, Jewish, Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, Melikians hope to create a museum. Chairperson Lori Talsky who is present today prayers the noble Alex and Marie Manoogian, Zoroastrian — to promote understanding and The James and Ana Melikian Collection is on with her husband Alan Zekelman. Corrine both of blessed memory, who founded this peace. On display is the First Armenian New view at the Manoogian Museum through Khederian serves as vice chair of the Council.” splendid museum....” Testament printed in Amsterdam, 1668; and a January 15, 2018 by appointment. For more Azadian also mentioned that within the cul- The final speaker was James Melikian, whose Silver Mounted Torah Case, probably information, view website: www.manoogianmu- Jerusalem,1923, from the collection of the late seum.org

Richard Manoogian and Keith Pomeroy Robert Taubman and James Melikian 16 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

DECEMBER 17 — Candlelit Labyrinth Peace Walk, MASSACHUSETTSCALIFORNIA Armenian Heritage Park on The Greenway, Boston, NOVEMBER 18 — Join the Armenian EyeCare Project 4:30 – 6 pm. Quiet holiday reflection and celebration. Tie for its 25th Anniversary Gala at 6:30pm at the Balboa a ribbon with your wish on the Wishing Tree. Hot Bay Club in Newport Beach. The organization will honor Chocolate & Cookies, hosted by The Bostonian Hotel Founder Dr. Roger Ohanesian for 25 years of dedicated Boston All are invited. RSVP appreciated, please service to Armenia in the field of eye care. The fun-filled email [email protected] evening includes an authentic Armenian dinner, roving DECEMBER 17 — St. James 86th Anniversary Name entertainers, a silent & live auction, Tom Bozigian & his Day Celebration. Sunday. Abp. Khajag Barsamian, band and Artur’s Armenian Dance Troupe. To RSVP or for Primate, Presiding. Honoring Michael G. Yapchaian, more information, call 949-933-4069, email leslie@eyecare- Parishioner of the Year, and Nishan & Margrit Atinizian, project.com or visit eyecareproject.com/25th-anniversary-gala/ Diocesan St. Vartan Award Recipients. 10 a.m. Divine Liturgy. Name Day Banquet to follow. Keljik Hall. St. MASSACHUSETTS James’ Charles Mosesian Cultural and Youth Center. $45 per person. $10 for children 12 and under. Advanced NOVEMBER 17 and 18 — Saints Vartanantz Armenian Reservations Required – purchase tickets online at Church, Annual Food Festival and Fair, 180 Old www.stjameswatertown.org. 465 Mt. Auburn Street, Westford Rd., Chelmsford. Phone 978-256-7234. Watertown [email protected] Armenian Food and Pastries, and Vendors, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Live Armenian Music and MICHIGAN Dancing, Friday - 4:30 - 7 p.m. Tours of the church sanc- tuary and complex - Friday, 11 a.m. and Saturday, 4 p.m. DECEMBER 2 — Nor Keghi Kef Time III Pagharch Dinner Tavloo Tournament - Saturday, 2 p.m. and Dance Fundraiser for Nor Keghi School in NOVEMBER 18 — The Armenian Women’s Welfare Armenia, 6.30 p.m. St. John Armenian Church Hall, Association’s 41st Annual Luncheon/Auction will Southfield. Continuous music by an assembly of Detroit’s be held at the Oakley Country Club, 410 Belmont All-Star Armenian Musicians will again entertain attendees Street, Watertown on Saturday, at 11 a.m. Ticket price to the third “Pagharch” feast that residents of the historic is $75. Proceeds to benefit the mission of the AWWA, Armenian district dined on for centuries at the start of the which include the Armenian Nursing & Rehabilitation Armenian International Women’s winter season in mountainous Keghi district. The govern- Center in Jamaica Plain and the Hanganak NGO Clinic Association and Watertown Free Public ment of Armenia on Feb. 1962 renamed the region of in Stepanakert, N-K, Armenia. For more information Library present a panel on November 28 Ashdarag to Nor Keghi to honor the history of Keghizees about this event, please call Stephanie Ciccolo at 617- on “Stopping Violence Against Women: of historic Western Armenia. Funds raised will help in 522-2600. From the Local to the Global,” 7 p.m., development of the school’s multi-purpose auditorium. NOVEMBER 19 — The Westin Waltham Boston Hotel, Watertown Free Public Library, 123 Main Project SAVE will celebrate with a Thanks Giving St., Watertown. Program will feature NEW JERSEY brunch event to honor Founder Ruth Thomasian’s vision Wendy Murphy, Tsovinar Harutyunyan, and 42 years of service and to acknowledge the many vol- Craig Norberg-Bohm and will be moder- NOVEMBER 18 — Gala banquet celebrating the 70th unteers, photo donors and supporters who have con- ated by Judy Norsigian. Free and open to anniversary of the Tekeyan Cultural Association of tributed to Project SAVE. An event for the community to the public. Greater New York. At the Terrace at Biagios. 299 come together and celebrate as we look ahead to the Paramus Road, Paramus. Featuring Elie Berberian and his future. For more information call 617-923-4542 or band from Montreal. Call 201-446-8006. email: [email protected] . NOVEMBER 28 — “Stopping Violence Against Women: RHODE ISLAND From the Local to the Global,” a panel on violence gourmet foods, delicacies and pastries; raffles, and more. against women in New England, nationwide, and in the Activities for Children, Peter Adamian Hall: Friday, 7-9 SEPTEMBER 13, 2017-MARCH 14, 2018 — Armenian Film Republic of Armenia. Sponsored by the Armenian p.m., All Aboard “The Polar Express” Pajama Party, rec- Festival “The Nation’s Past & Present” Sponsored by International Women’s Association and the Watertown ommended for children ages 5 and older; Saturday, 11 Cultural Committee of the Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Free Public Library. Featuring Wendy Murphy, a.m., Children’s Entertainment. Visit with Santa, Church, in Hanoian Hall, 70 Jefferson Street, Providence. Attorney and Adjunct professor at New England Law Saturday, 1-2 pm, and have your photo taken too. Wednesday, October 11, , at 7 pm, “Garni, Geghard” Boston, Tsovinar Harutyunyan, United National Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall. For further Wednesday, November 15, 2017, at 7 pm, “Armenia” Population Fund (UNFPA) Armenia Program Analyst, information, contact the church office at 617.354.0632, (Yerevan, Echmiadzin, Khor Virap, Zvartnots, Sevan, Dilijan, Craig Norberg-Bohm, consultant and formerly of the or log onto http://www.htaac.org/calendar/event/449/ Lori) Wednesday, January, 24, at 7 pm “Country of Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Armenian Kings - 2” (Ani, Kars, Edesia, Musaler)Wednesday, DECEMBER 10 — Christmas Holiday Concert, Erevan Choral February, 21, at 7 pm, “Country of Armenian Kings - 3” Domestic Violence. Moderated by Judy Norsigian, past Society and Orchestra, 7 p.m., Sunday, Church Sanctuary, executive director and co-founder of Our Bodies (Cilicia, Kharbert, Adana, Zeytoun) Wednesday, March, 14, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 2018, at 7 pm. All presented in English, donation of $10. Ourselves and AIWA Board member. 7 p.m., Watertown Brattle St., Cambridge. This year’s concert, under the Free Public Library, 123 Main St., Watertown, Free and direction of Composer Konstantin Petrossian, music direc- open to the public. tor and conductor, will open with the Arlington High DECEMBER 1 and 2 — Trinity Christmas Bazaar, Friday, School Madrigal Singers and feature the vocal quartet the 12-9 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Holy Trinity Bostonians. The program will consist of traditional Calendar items are free. Entries should not be longer Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 Brattle St., Armenian and Western sacred and holiday music. The than 5 lines. Listings should include contact information. Cambridge. Featuring delicious Armenian dinners, a la public is invited to attend this complimentary concert Items will be edited to fit the space, if need be. A photo carte menu and take-out meals; booths and vendors – which is a gift to the community. For further information, may be sent with the listing. Items should be sent no perfect for doing your Christmas shopping; Armenian call the Church office, 617.354.0632. later than Mondays at noon. Vordan Karmir Rocks Waco, Texas

Armenia and why would a rock band from ducer of the Texas Music Café – a show that is audience of 20 million. The band’s name liter- By Mihran Aroian Armenia perform in Waco? broadcast on over 100 PBS stations. Vordan ally translates to “red worm,” which was once The story begins two years ago, when Vordan Karmir will be featured on an episode entitled used as a crimson dye. A popular music group Karmir came to Austin to participate in one of “On Texas Soil” in early 2018. Living in Waco in Armenia, the band was formed in 2009 by a WACO, Texas — In Waco, where fewer than the biggest live music festivals in the world for most of his adult life, Chris is connecting group of young men in . Members 10 Armenians live, there was a performance on called South by Southwest, or SXSW. The with his Armenian heritage and willing to pro- Vahan Poghosyan, Davit Grigoryan, Davit November 1 by a rock band from Armenia Austin-Armenian community got to know the mote Armenian musicians. In 1977, the three Galstyan and Payqar Chakhoyan produce inno- called Vordan Karmir. Built in a year that all band members during their stay in Austin and Ermoian brothers launched The Texas Music vative music, addressing issues that range from Armenians know, 1915, the Waco Hippodrome when I and my family traveled to Yerevan, we Café to promote aspiring musicians. Chris corruption to social indifference. Theatre hosted Vordan Karmir to perform their had the pleasure of hearing them perform in immediately took the opportunity to help pro- To help them with performance venues, con- special blend of . Armenia. mote Vordan Karmir increase their exposure tact me at [email protected]. Waco is known for Baylor University, the We have kept in touch and when they came here in the US, and arranged a show where To learn more about Texas Music Café, visit Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and to perform at the Innovate Armenia conference they would be taped for the Texas Music Café. their website www.texasmusiccafe.com and to the Dr. Pepper Museum. Why would more than at the University of Southern California, I con- The broadcast of Vordan Karmir’s PBS debut learn more about Vordan Karmir, visit their web 150 people from Waco come hear a band from tacted Chris Ermoian, who is the executive pro- will take place in early January with a potential site at http://vordankarmir.com/ S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror The Tangled Web of Flynn

Turkey. Also, Mueller’s investigation focuses on Flynn’s role in Russian Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian meddling in the US election process. That investigation is circling clos- er and closer to the White House. Next, Reza Zarrab, a Turkish-Iranian gold trader was arrested on When President Donald Trump appointed Michael Flynn as his March 16, 2016, for perpetrating a scheme to get around UN sanctions national security advisor, the following warning appeared in this col- on Iran, which may lead to fines totaling $6 billion. But what is more umn: “The president-elect would do a good service to his country to serious is “a lot of Turkish laundry is likely to be aired” as Steven A. EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 take a hard look at his choice before his final appointment. Otherwise, Cook reports in his blog post. An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication he would be planting a time bomb in his office.” (Mirror-Spectator, Mr. Zarrab has been very close to Recep Tayyip Erdogan and inter- November 23, 2016) cepted conversations between the two implicated then Prime Minister The time bomb went off, earlier than anticipated, and Flynn was fired Erdogan. and now is in legal hot water. He might even drag with him the resident Finally, the political strain that is pushing Turkey and the US apart

EDITOR of the White House. exacerbates the above two cases. Governments have a way of circum- Alin K. Gregorian The warning was recorded in this column not out of anti-Turkish hys- venting transgressions if and when they enjoy cordial relations. But in teria, but because the checkered past of the man was already a matter this case, Erdogan’s diatribes against the US, political conflict with the ASSISTANT EDITOR of public record, with revelations that he had attended a meeting with White House over the Kurdish issue in Syria, where Kurds enjoy US Aram Arkun the representatives of the Turkish government, where Fethullah Gulen’s support in their drive to carve out an autonomous enclave on Syrian

ART DIRECTOR fate was discussed. As well, there was the fact that Flynn was on the soil at the Turkish border, have distanced the two countries. Marc Mgrditchian Turkish government’s payroll without registering with the US govern- To top that all, Erdogan has just completed a deal to buy $2 billion ment as a foreign agent. His boundless recklessness even led him to pub- worth of military hardware from Russia, which NATO partners claim are lish an op-ed piece in The Hill (“Our ally Turkey is in crisis and needs not compatible with the alliance’s standards. our support,” November 8, 2016), calling on the US government to In an opinion piece, Stephen Kinzer comments: “Turkey has been a come to the aid of Turkey, while characterizing Gulen as a terrorist. member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, making it a military SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: US Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigations will reveal more ally of the United States for 65 years. Officially it still is. The reality is Edmond Y. Azadian about his recklessness and personal agenda to the detriment of US for- different. Turkey has written itself out of the western alliance. Rather eign policy, such as delaying the takeover of Raqqa from ISIS. Shortly than accept decisions made in Washington and NATO headquarters in CONTRIBUTORS: before the transition of power from President Barack Obama to Trump, Brussels, it now behaves like a Middle Eastern Country pursing its own Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun the former’s national security adviser, Susan Rice, informed Flynn of interests. Turkey has become the first NATO dropout.” Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Diana the Pentagon plan to retake Raqqa, the nerve center of ISIS. Flynn The US being the sole surviving superpower can control the situa- Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, tion and restrain Turkey in its erratic policy. But what is happening on Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, opposed it, though no reason was recorded at the time, because the gov- Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian ernment of Turkey opposed the move. the other side of the equation is that Turkey is veering towards Russia. Governments have invisible tentacles to carry out illicit actions, which Mr. Erdogan is on his way to to engage in serious negotiations CORRESPONDENTS: are conducted under the cover of secrecy, until they hit a raw nerve. with President Putin. The way Turkey has violated UN sanctions in the Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Take the case of Oliver North, who blatantly bypassed Congress in Iran case is undermining US and NATO policy to contain Russia. Gas Boston - Nancy Kalajian the Iran-Contra affair, buying and distributing weapons in violation of and energy deals are on their negotiating table. Russia has already New York/New Jersey - Marylynda Bozian-Cruickshank Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach

Contributing Photographers: Jacob Demirdjian and Jirair Hovsepian

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ISSN 0004-234X the law, only to receive a slap on the wrist and to become an icon and agreed to build more than one atomic power plant in Turkey. The two ideologue of the far right, even entertaining dreams of entering the pres- parties have agreed to raise the level of mutual trade to $100 billion POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The idential race. annually. Having Erdogan at his side, Putin will have to scoff at the US Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn Mr. Flynn’s fortunes turned sour because his client, Turkish President sanctions against Russia. St., Watertown, MA 02472 Recep Tayyip Erdogan went too far in alienating the US government But there is a political price to pay for all these deals. It has been Other than the editorial, views and opinions and shaking the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance. reported that the Karabakh issue will be on the agenda. Russians have expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily These days, Turkey’s name is constantly in the headlines with nega- a history of selling out Armenia to Turkey since the days of Mustafa reflect the policies of the publisher. tive stories, though none are related to Armenian issues. Kemal and Lenin. Moscow is eager to have Azerbaijan join the Eurasian Azerbaijan similarly has gained notoriety in equal parts thanks to the Economic Union (EEU); Turkey’s leverage can bring that to bear. revelations of the Panama Papers and the subsequent assassination of In that case, Karabakh will become the casualty. Without suffering Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. any political pain, Moscow can force Armenia to cede its strategic posi- Copying for other than personal use or The Aliyev clan’s $600 millions in investments in Israeli banks and tions, to placate Baku and Ankara. internal reference is prohibited without the confession of a German Christian Democrat Karin Strenz that she In today’s interconnected reality, global conflicts may end up influ- express permission of the copyright had been on the Azeri government’s payroll to promote that govern- encing the remotest corners of the world, which might appear to be owner. Address requests for reprints or back issues to: ment’s interests in Germany and in the European Parliament have done immune to that ongoing conflict. plenty to paint an accurate portrait of that government internationally. When Turkey’s interests dovetail with those of Russia, Baku has no The fallout between the US and Turkey has manifested itself on three other choice but to oblige and Armenia will lose. Baikar Association, Inc. levels. Flynn’s web of lies and deceit, ultimately will not only hurt the US 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- First is Michael Flynn’s $15-million sellout of US policy regarding government’s interests, but further constrain the rights of Armenia. 1509 18 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

representation.” Contradicting himself, Torossian engaged not care if he lost his $65,000-a-year job as senior vice pres- in the hypocritical action of defending the interests of ident of Gray and Co. He went ahead and honestly answered Erdogan, the dictator of Turkey. all my questions. Zorthian explained that he worked in the In addition, Torossian wrote on January 27, 2017, in The public relations office and not on the Turkey account which Observer, published by President Trump’s son-in-law Jared was handled by the firm’s lobbying department. My Turn Kushner, criticizing PR firms that “whitewash repressive As soon as my article was published on the front page of regimes….” He concluded: “dictators and terrorists don’t on January 19, 1984, the Turkish By Harut Sassounian deserve any PR help.” newspaper Tercuman reported my interview with Zorthian I called Torossian’s office twice. Each time a staff member which caused a great embarrassment to the Turkish Foreign assured me that he would return my call. I never heard from Ministry, finding out that an Armenian-American was a top Ronn Torossian Hired to do PR him. Louise Neu had a similar experience when she tried to executive for the lobbying firm that was getting paid For Turkey; Is He Really an reach Torossian. When she tweeted him about his connec- $300,000-a-year by Turkey. tions to Turkey and Trump associates, Torossian tweeted On February 21, 1984, the lobbying firm’s vice chairman, Armenian? back: “I shot JFK. My ex-wife is Russian.... I even ate caviar Alejandro Orfila, told Zorthian that the Turkish Ambassador this week.” Torossian is not only impolite in not responding Sukru Elekdag was extremely irate reading the newspaper The website Medium.com posted two articles by Louise to phone messages, but he is reported to have a bad temper report. Orfila quoted Ambassador Elekdag stating: “I hired Neu revealing that Ronn Torossian had signed a contract to against his employees and others. The New York Times you guys to help me with my political problems, and instead represent Turkey as its PR agent. Torossian is President of described him as “brash and aggressively outspoken.” He is you’re creating problems for me… You must do something the 5W Public Relations firm based in New York City. also reported to have business dealings with shady Jewish drastic that I can report back to my government or else I’ll Justice Department records indicate that Torossian signed and Russian oligarchs, according to Louise Neu. Even be forced to cancel the contract.” the agreement on May 25, 2017. His firm will get paid an though Torossian has an Armenian last name, I was not able The PR firm’s chairman, Robert K. Gray, cut his vacation additional $60,000 for the period of May 16-November 16, to confirm if one or both of his parents are Armenians, or short in Acapulco, Mexico, and immediately returned to 2017, which is automatically renewable for another six neither one. Washington. Zorthian was fired after rejecting Mr. Gray’s months. This payment is in addition to the amount specified Ronn Torossian is also “a partner, Chief Marketing Officer request to resign. in the contract signed on August 10, 2016. and advisory Board member of JetSmarter,” according to his Even though I was not pleased to see Mr. Zorthian lose his It is noteworthy that Torossian signed the agreement with Linkedin profile. JetSmarter is a controversial company job, as a young reporter who had started working as a jour- Turkey nine days after President Erdogan watched his body- described as “uber for planes.” The CEO of JetSmarter is nalist six months earlier, it was very satisfying that my guards beat up a group of demonstrators in front of Turkish Sergey Petrossov, the son of Vatchagan Petrossov, who def- obscure article made headlines in Turkey and came to the Ambassador’s residence in Washington, DC. Three days after initely has an Armenian name. attention of the Turkish Foreign Ministry and Ambassador the protesters were beaten and injured, Torossian published The main reason I was interested in Ronn Torossian’s Elekdag. Furthermore, the Washington Post wrote a lengthy an article in The Algemeiner, titled: “Deport Radical Islamist employment as a PR agent for Turkey is that there was a article on April 13, 1984, quoting from my article and men- Preacher [Gulen] and Maintain American Interests.” similar situation with Barry Zorthian who worked from tioning my newspaper as the source of this international October 1980 to February 1984 for the lobbying firm of controversy. Interestingly, Louise Neu revealed that Torossian had writ- Gray and Co., hired by Turkey. Zorthian was a former exec- I urged Zorthian to file a lawsuit accusing Gray and Co., ten another article in Newsmax on Feb. 17, 2017, criticizing utive for Voice of America and Time, Inc. In 1968-69 he was of employment discrimination due to his national origin. the media coverage of Michael Flynn’s resignation. the chief US spokesman in Saigon, Vietnam. Zorthian did file charges with the Washington, D.C. Office of Ironically, Torossian had written an earlier article in After I had become aware that Zorthian was simultane- Human Rights, claiming he was illegally fired because of his Newsmax on May 20, 2015, critical of PR Firm Levick ously an executive at a lobbying firm for Turkey and Board Armenian background. Communications’ work for the Embassy of Qatar, in which Member of the Armenian Assembly of America, I called him Unfortunately, I do not know the outcome of Zorthian’s he stated: “There are those who feel it is OK to spin for dic- to ask if his dual roles did not create a conflict personally or lawsuit. Both he and his wife have passed away since then. tators and terrorists. Yet, this writer [Torossian] agrees with for his firm. As a sign of respect for a fellow Armenian, I cau- If Mr. Torossian is truly an Armenian, how could he do PR the owner of the world’s largest PR firm, Richard Edelman, tioned him that if he answered my questions, it could lead to for Turkey? More importantly, how could Turkey hire him who said, ‘PR is not like the law — Not everyone deserves his dismissal from his job. Zorthian, 63, replied that he did given Mr. Zorthian’s experience?

‘You Will Burn in Hell’ LETTERS By Ismail Akbulut “You will burn in hell! Since you’ve committed treason, you’re Thanks for Bringing Attention to Story of Anoush no longer worthy to carry out God’s mission!” That’s a curse recently hurled at me by one of my own relatives, a Muslim Mathevosian Turk, in reaction to my latest op-ed: “Why I Am Grateful to Erdogan, the Dictator of Turkey” [Armenian Mirror-Spectator, To the Editor: November 4] My sin was to violate two of the most “sacred” Thank you, Aram Arkun, for exposing a great injustice in your article, “The Armenian Genocide narratives of Turkish mythology. Museum Shame,” and for placing it on the front page above the fold line — a place of importance In the Islamic tradition, Muslims believe that there is life after for a “must read” piece. death. Either one is cast into hell as a punishment for sins, or is granted access to pass I have long been troubled by the indifference and total absence of honor in the settlement of through the gates of paradise. Obviously, no Muslim wants as his or her fate to spend the Anoush Mathevosian Genocide Museum case. But before I speak to that, I want to be trans- eternity in hell. Why, then, would my own family member curse me with this fate parent. instead of send me loving blessings? Here I will respond to some of the reactions to my I am founder and president of Project SAVE Armenian Photograph Archives, Inc., a nonprofit, previous article, and elaborate on why some believe I have committed blasphemy. tax-exempt organization that solicits donations to continue its important work. Anoush Many Muslims tend to believe that God was on their side during certain historical Mathevosian is not one of our financial supporters, nor have I ever met her. I am a social histo- periods, because of their personal piety and work towards protecting Islam in general. rian whose studies include Armenian Genocide related events. I am also a dues-paying member Frankly, today most supporters of the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, believe of the Armenian Assembly of America. that the Turkish-led Ottoman Empire was part of God’s divine mission, and they still have long desired an Armenian Genocide Museum in the traditional grieve its defeat in 1922. sense of a building with exhibits and programs. It was through the initiative and dedication of As some of my Turkish readers reminded me, in the official Turkish narrative held by Anoush Mathevosian that an Armenian Genocide Museum be built in Washington, D.C. For many as sacred and inviolable, the Armenians were guilty for the collapse of the months, Anoush travelled from New York to Washington in search of a suitable site, and in 2000, Ottoman Empire, the land protected and favored by no other than God himself. The she was successful in finding the bank building two blocks from the White House. multiethnic and religiously diverse Ottoman Empire, known for its relative tolerance vis- Because of her strong belief in this project and her unquestionable trust in an Armenian orga- à-vis its minorities, entered WWI as an ally of the Central Powers. In this construction nization — the Armenian Assembly, she was the first to donate millions to this endeavor. It was of history, Armenians, considered as the “trustworthy citizens” of the Ottoman Empire, never a consideration of hers that her donation would be used for any other purpose but that of collectively committed treason by rebelling and collaborating with the enemies, includ- building a genocide museum — and we are not talking about a genocide museum web site. ing the Russians and French, against the “holy” Ottoman Empire. However, over the years, due to the manipulation and greed of the Cafesjian Family Foundation In this version, the “vulnerable” Ottoman Empire was “forced” to proactively relocate and others, and the incompetence of the Armenian Assembly, the Armenian Genocide Museum all Armenians, in order to protect them from Turks’ revenge and to protect Turks from has not been built, nor have Anoush’s millions been returned to her. Where is the justice? Armenians as well. During the “required” relocation, many Armenians died due to Over the past 50 years, Anoush has generously donated her wealth to countless Armenian caus- inclement weather, or were killed by Kurdish rebels (not Turks). Therefore, as this narra- es both in America and Armenia. She is an unassuming person, seeking neither fame nor recog- tive puts it, what happened was indeed unfortunate, but really just a part of the collec- nition. Neither does she have a following to stand up for her and demand justice for the confis- tive suffering of those nations involved at that time, and in this light, must not be con- cation of her misused funds. Sadly, numerous queries to the Assembly have gotten the “We’ll get sidered a genocide. back to you” response. As much as this “sacrosanct” myth attempts to address why at least hundreds of Recently, I was researching post Armenian Genocide years, and came upon words that sound- thousands of Armenians died (up to a million and a half), and so many were brutally ed like a direct reference to the Anoush Mathevosian Genocide Museum case. The following deported, it ignores, disregards, and denies the massacres of Armenian intellectuals, words were written by Maj. Gen. James G. Harbord in his Report of the American Military Mission men, women, and children in the heartland of the Ottoman Empire committed by to Armenia (US Government Printing Office, 1920; available on the web), p. 18: Ottomans using state power and means. The official Turkish version, which silences his- “….Unjust as it may be, the sentiment regarding him [the Armenian] is expressed by the saying tory, lacks credibility as it has a lot of holes that can only be filled with cement, current in the Near East: The Armenian is never legally in the wrong; never morally in the right.” through categorically denying and destroying evidence of those crimes. Thus, I regard History, it seems, is repeating itself—this time with Anoush Mathevosian. Where is the honor this version as an apologetic excuse for the crimes the Ottomans committed; a rewrit- and respect due her? What a swindle! Amot, Armenian Assembly of America. ing of history in which Turkish glory conveniently remain untainted. Ruth Thomasian Thus, my first heretical sin was to committed treason by collaborating with an Watertown Armenian newspaper, a newspaper that had been established by “traitors” who were see HOLINESS, page 20 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY Is Domestic Violence an Integral Part of Our Family Traditions and National Identity?

right social and political echelons. Some vicious cycle for both partners. cide (Article 110); Infliction of willful heavy dam- By Nora Armani Armenian citizens are above the law. The refusal Global estimates published by the World Health age to health (Article 112); Infliction of willful to adopt the law against Domestic Violence puts Organization (WHO) indicate that about 1 in 3 (35 medium-gravity damage to health (Article 113); all male perpetrators above the law as well. percent) of women worldwide have experienced Infliction of medium-gravity or grave damage to Much has been written and said in the past few Why is it that more often than not, an abusive either physical and/or sexual intimate partner vio- health in the state of temporary insanity (Article weeks, both in Armenia and in the Diaspora, husband does not get fair punishment under lence or non-partner sexual violence in their life- 114); Infliction of willful light damage to health about domestic violence and the urgent need to Armenian law, and why is it that this broken judi- time. As many as 38 percent of murders of women (Article 117); Battery (118); Torture (Article 119) adopt a law criminalizing such behavior. cial system sends him home to resume the same are committed by a male intimate partner. and Forced violent sexual acts (Article 140). In The United Nations defines violence against type of destructive and dangerous behavior? The These statistics reflect the global situation, and addition, the Criminal Code prohibits illegal sepa- women as “any act of gender-based violence that answer is simple. Armenian society is based on the Armenia does not fall far behind. In fact, it com- ration of the child from the parents (Article 167). results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual principle of the three M’s Misogyny, Masculinity, petes very tightly and even wins in this domain, Criminal penalties range from 8 to 15 years (or or mental harm or any suffering caused to and Machoism. In order for us to understand this since close to 1 in 10 Armenian women report to life) in prison for aggravated murder (Article 104), women, including threats of such acts, coercion, primarily male violent behavior, we need to have been physically ill-treated by their husbands, to fines, correctional labor or two months in or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occur- address the norms that govern the males in our according to the findings of the Yerevan-based rep- prison for infliction of light injury (Article 117). ring in public or in private life.” societies. It is very important to contextualize and resentatives of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). General provisions in the criminal laws pertain- Intimate-partner violence refers to behavior by a understand that Armenian society is based on The outcome of a survey released in 2010 by ing to crimes against the person may be applied partner or ex-partner that causes physical, sexual Misogyny, Masculinity, and Machoism. Cases can the UNFPA found domestic violence to account only to certain cases of domestic violence, and or psychological harm, including physical aggres- be cited of violence against women even outside “for the greatest share of physical and psycholog- often only when the outcome involves death. sion, sexual coercion, psychological abuse and the family. One recent incident comes to mind ical” violence suffered by women in Armenia. Of As a result, Armenia considers that there is controlling behavior; 42 percent of women who where a certain former governor of a certain the women surveyed, 9 percent admitted to expe- nothing wrong with its social structure and that experience intimate-partner violence report an region of Armenia physically abused a woman riencing physical violence, 25 percent to psycho- isolated cases do not make up for an endemic injury as a consequence. Violence against women, entrepreneur in broad daylight at the Marriott logical intimidation, 61 percent to controlling even though official statistics show otherwise. whether domestic or social, can have fatal out- Hotel. What of that? How can such behaviors be behavior, and 3.3 percent sexual violence, all at the This position clearly illustrates the dictates of the comes such as homicide or suicide. accepted and go unpunished even under the crim- hands of their domestic partners. three M’s mentioned above. These opponents, the No sooner had the motion to adopt a law inal code? Another survey on domestic violence in denialists as I call them, are in collusion with this against domestic violence landed on the Armenian It may be important to note that some women Armenia released by Proactive Society in 2011 criminal trend since they consider such behavior Parliament agenda than voices fiercely opposing advocate these masculine principles and operate found that 59.6 percent of its respondents had tolerated and normal, even when it implied its adoption rose high in the press, in the media, by them, willingly engaging in violent social and been subjected to domestic violence in their life- extreme cases of violence putting the lives of and through social channels accompanied by sexual behavior, the psychological implications of time. This percentage surpasses the world figures, women and children in danger. active attempts to block it from becoming a law. which might be worth studying. Some may even putting Armenia at the forefront of this social ill. One article in the Armenian media argues that It would seem only logical to punish the perpe- use violence as a turn-on and therefore it may be The situation has not improved since. Armenia is not Europe nor is it America and there- trator of any form of violence, specifically when explained why they oppose such a law from tak- Despite these glaring statistics, opponents fore there is no need to adopt such a law. Other exercised against the most vulnerable members of ing effect. argue that Armenia does not need laws that make articles argue that the adoption of such a law society, namely women and children, and particu- domestic violence a crime since the criminal code would undermine our close-knit family values and larly when such violence occurs under the family These principles of masculinity dictate the has provisions against all forms of violence. national identity. roof. behavior of the police, the judicial authorities, and However, the criminal code does not specifically Often it is not the husband, but the mother in It may be a no-brainer that domestic violence even certain traditional male and female segments prohibit domestic violence, making it difficult to law who is the perpetrator. A serious complication should be punishable by law, just like other forms of society that consider domestic violence a “pri- hold perpetrators accountable for intimate part- emerges from the fact that the victim is placed in of violence such as assault and murder are, or vate matter” to be resolved within the confines of ner violence of any degree. Moreover, these laws a very vulnerable situation with no social or legal should be, in societies where a fair and just judi- the home. This very misogynistic society does not do not guarantee a fair treatment for victims of recourse, and is obliged to keep silent out of cial system operates. Sadly, the Armenian judicial hesitate to blame the victim for provocative behav- domestic violence because of the embedded prej- shame, is unable to access proper care, receive system in its current form does little to help or pro- ior, often justifying the perpetrator’s actions as udices of a masculine society. compassion and council or even the unthinkable, tect women who are victims of domestic abuse. having been called for. Finally, the so-called Relevant provisions include: Murder (Article get a fair compensation. I have heard of cases There is no respect for the law in Armenia and “noble” macho interference into the close-knit 104); Murder in a state of strong temporary insan- where the police have themselves abused and many criminals roam unpunished, especially those family fabric only to try to reconcile the victim ity (Article 105); Causing death by negligence assaulted the victim who has called them to the with ties to the powers that be with access to the with her perpetrator, does nothing but create a (Article 109); Causing somebody to commit sui- see IDENTITY, page 20 NATO Is Headed for a Very Messy Break-up

the Turkish political system opened up enough to allow the NATO’s failure to adapt to the 21st century. It was created to con- By Stephen Kinzer masses to express their true views. Many voters and political front a single threat: the . That threat gave the leaders turned out to be pious nationalists who do not want to alliance a clear mission, held its members together, and justified live in an American-dominated world. This challenges two delu- America’s dominant military role in Europe. After the Soviet If you’re an American citizen, cancel plans for that vacation in sions about the Turks: first, that most of them are Westernized Union collapsed, the United States could have declared victory, Turkey. Don’t invite your Turkish friends to the United States, secularists at heart, and second, that as loyal “NATO allies,” they reduced its role in NATO, and turned European security over to either. Recently Turkey and the United States stopped issuing happily join Middle East wars and other made-in-Washington Europeans. Instead it did the opposite. NATO remained an visas to each other’s citizens. This is more than just another trav- security projects. instrument of American power. It admitted a host of new mem- el ban. It is a geopolitical spectacle unique in modern history: Roots of the current crisis in US-Turkey relations go back at bers and is opening a sprawling new headquarters in Brussels. two allied countries blocking normal back-and-forth travel. An least to 2003, when Turkey denied the US Army permission to NATO, however, will never again be the powerful and united old relationship has gone deeply sour. cross Turkish soil on its way to invade Iraq. A few months later, force it was during the Cold War. Turkey is splitting off because It’s hard to imagine that Americans will be forbidden for years American soldiers in northern Iraq arrested eleven Turkish secu- it now sees its own security goals as more important than those to visit Topkapi Palace, or that the Grand Canyon will remain off rity officers and, in images that are now seared into Turkey’s col- of the alliance. Other countries will make the same calculation. limits to Turks. Indeed, limited visa processing resumed Monday. lective memory, hooded them while they were detained. Civil war They will follow Turkey’s example: pretend to be NATO members But, even if the visa standoff is fully resolved the breach it sym- in Syria has sharpened this strategic dissonance. The United while going their own way. bolizes will not quickly heal. Turkey has been member of the States armed Kurdish factions that Turkey considers enemies. Decay from within is not the only problem facing this calcified North Atlantic Treaty Organization — making it a military ally of Turkey returned the favor by allowing Al Qaeda and other mili- alliance. Worse is its lack of purpose. The American generals the United States — for 65 years. Officially it still is. The reality tant groups to ship weapons and fighters across Turkish territo- who run it must justify its existence by conceiving new missions. is different. Turkey has written itself out of the Western alliance. ry into Syria. They have come up with two. Rather than accept decisions made in Washington and at NATO Anti-Turkish emotions in Washington flared in May, when an Today NATO systematically confronts Russia with troop move- headquarters in Brussels, it now behaves like a Middle Eastern evidently amused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was filmed ments, arms buildups and maneuvers near Russian borders. At country pursuing its own interests. Turkey has become the first watching his bodyguards pummel protesters outside the Turkish the same time, it supports American “out-of-area” wars in places NATO dropout. embassy. Erdogan is demanding that the US extradite a Turkish like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. Turkey has no interest in join- It may not be the last. cleric who is living in Pennsylvania, and whom he blames for ing either of those projects. It feels no obligation to do so. That The causes of this crackup are a witch’s brew, with ingredients organizing a coup attempt last year. He has offered to free an certifies its effective withdrawal from NATO. including Russian weaponry, Kurdish guerrilla fighters, a sanc- imprisoned American preacher in exchange. Last month he Prickly nationalism and an evolving sense of self-interest tions-busting gold dealer, two preachers, and a goon squad of raised the ante by arresting a Turkish employee of the US helped push Turkey to this point. So did America’s insistence on presidential bodyguards. The brew is flavored by deep suspicions embassy. maintaining an old-style NATO after the Cold War ended. One of the United States that permeate much of Turkish society. A Erdogan is also worried about the looming trial in New York other factor looms in the recent past. Turkey tried for years to recent survey found that just 13 percent of Turks admire of a Turkish-Iranian gold dealer with whom he is said to have had enter the European Union. It was repeatedly rebuffed. With that American ideals, while 72 percent fear the effects of American corrupt dealings. He has also announced plans to buy a missile historic choice, Europe slammed its door in Turkey’s face. power. This antipathy suggests that Westerners have long mis- defense system from Russia — unthinkable for a NATO ally. He Naturally the Turks began looking for friends and partners else- judged the Turks. has even countenanced talk of pushing American planes out of where. Even strategic alliances are not forever. After secularists led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk seized power the sprawling military base at Incirlik, near the Mediterranean, during the 1920s, they decreed that Turks must turn away from from which they carry out missions supporting wars throughout (Stephen Kinzer is a senior fellow at the Watson Institute for their Muslim and Middle Eastern heritage to become more the region. International and Public Affairs at Brown University. This col- European. Several generations were force-fed this creed. Then Turkey’s defection is the latest and most vivid symptom of umn originally appeared in the Boston Globe on November 11.) 20 S ATURDAY, N OVEMBER 1 8 , 2 0 1 7 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

Is Domestic Violence an Integral Part of Our Family Traditions and National Identity?

IDENTITY, from page 19 respect, hand kissing, and door holding not fool that I had witnessed closely, in Los Angeles, hap- addressing the impact of toxic masculinity and neg- rescue on account of not being a good wife for us. Again, the statistics are clear, even if oppo- pening to the younger sister of a close friend from ative cultural norms on women. Armenia needs to having called the police on her husband. All these nents choose the denialists approach of ignoring Armenia. While visiting my friend her sister had unknot this situation at present and come out augmented cases of violence may be reverted if a these numbers, and even if they insist on “isolat- shown up at my friend’s apartment with a bruise clean in front of the civilized world. Hopefully, a law exists protecting victims of domestic violence ed cases.” and a bleeding nose. My friend’s reaction, which new generation of Armenians will tilt the balance and punishing their perpetrators. If we are not Europe or America, what, then, was voiced in one word repeated twice, “Again? of violence towards a more equitable norm. The statistics are clear and the numbers do not are we? Are we an independent country whose Again?” as she opened the door and let her sister In wartime, and historically, women have been lie. If they do, they err on the side of conser- sacred family traditions and national identity are in, immediately led me to conclude that this was the strongest pillars of our society, but in times of vatism. There are probably many more cases that based on domestic violence and its impunity? a recurring phenomenon. peace, there is a latent form of suffering imposed remain unreported due to the shame element According to an article published in the Later that evening, my friend opened up to me on them that equals what many undergo only dur- attached, the lack of widely accessible shelters or Huffington Post, there are 20 countries that have and said that her sister, 25, had been subjected to ing war. the knowledge about their existence. One last not outlawed domestic violence as of yet. If this violence by her husband, 35, who was having åAlong with a more just and efficient judicial important element is that as mothers, victims can- Armenian opponents to the law against domestic difficulty integrating into the new society they system that serves all its citizens equally, Armenia not bear being separated from their children, even violence claim that we are neither Europe nor had immigrated to in Los Angeles. While my could better educate its police force in matters if temporarily, while seeking help and protection. America, maybe we can pick and choose one of friend’s sister had immediately enrolled into lan- concerning domestic violence. More importantly, Opponents to the law argue that Armenians these countries, Algeria, Burkina Faso, guage classes and was planning on getting a uni- it could increase the number of women in the have different family values and that Armenian Cameroon, Congo, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Haiti, Iran, versity education and improving her living condi- police force, maybe even establish special female women are highly respected and regarded in soci- Latvia, Kenya, Lebanon, Lesotho, Mali, Niger, tions, her husband was feeling at a loss and squads to help combat domestic violence. This ety, and that there are laws in Armenia governing Pakistan, Russian Federation, Syria, Uzbekistan, unable to adapt. While social science theories may would create a much-needed atmosphere of trust gender equality, even though the word gender and Yemen. explain why and how women adapt better, and for the victims of domestic violence to take refuge was fiercely opposed to in a most ignorant way a Even Turkey, where about 40 percent of how age differences as little as five years may in, while it would exert necessary intimidation on few years back. Let us, for a second, add that not women have been found to have suffered wife- make a difference when integrating into a new their perpetrators. all families in Armenia are concerned with this beating at some stage at their lives, has adopted a culture, the manifestation of the aggression result- Armenian women’s responsibility will have to horrible scourge. Let us, for a second assume that law on the prevention of domestic violence, and ing from the frustration of not being able to inte- be engaged as educators, as mothers, as sisters, there are many men in Armenia who actually thanks to body tags applied as punishment to grate, although explained, cannot be excused. and as spouses, in order to help raise a new gen- revere women and have a very high regard for restrain wife-beating, domestic violence is thought Violence against women has been used as a eration of Armenian men who will finally under- them. Let us. to be on a decline. weapon of war since time immemorial. Only in stand that domestic violence is not a given mas- I have personally witnessed, and have been sub- How many more Zaruhi’s have to lose their war, the enemy is clearly from outside and can culine right, that it is not a private matter, and ject to such woman venerating (gnamedzar) lives before Armenia adopts a law specifically easily be identified, in the case of domestic vio- that all its forms are violations of human rights Armenian behavior. There is some hypocrisy against domestic violence? lence, the enemy is from within, and often strikes punishable by law. masked under this excessive gallantry too that The objectors to this law are so virulent in their at the most unexpected and vulnerable situations. sometimes verges on sexual advances or even rejections that their behavior prompts us to con- Are we a violent society? If yes, then maybe it is (Nora Armani is a New York-based actress, harassment. clude that their family values may indeed involve true that such a law might be a threat to our tra- filmmaker, and social activist. She has numerous Many Armenian men are respectful towards spousal violence. Otherwise, why oppose a law ditional values and consequently our national international stage and screen credits to her women, granted, most are certainly respectful that protects almost one half of the population identity. Are domestic violence and hitting a fist name, having performed in many languages. Nora towards other men’s wives, not necessarily from the other? Only a criminal would object to on the table the only ways in which the Armenian holds an M.Sc. in Sociology from the London towards their own. The men who are respectful laws governing their criminal behavior or limit it. male is capable of imposing his authority in the School of Economics (LSE), the University of towards women may either not be the same ones Back in 1994, at the first Armenian home? Are verbal and physical abuse and other London, she is Director of Communications at the who abuse them, or they may be the same ones International Women’s Association (AIWA) inter- harmful acts of manipulation the only tools of Arc/k Project and the Founder and Artistic who behave one way in public and another way in national conference in London, I presented a communication for the Homo Sapiens Armenus? Director of SR Socially Relevant™ Film Festival private. Let these social phenomena of female paper on domestic violence based on a case study It is said that societies cannot advance without New York.)

Estate of Dr. Nubar Berberian Bequests $340,000 to Tekeyan Cultural Association

BEQUEST, from page 1 TCA of the United States and Canada, and as In recognition of his unending service, the humor, and a worthy apostle carrying the He was born in Cairo, Egypt on September its lifetime member, served in its executive as Central Board of the TCA has named the weight of history on his shoulders.” 25, 1922 to Kevork and Areknaz Berberian. secretary until the last day of his life. archival and research center of the Baikar Funeral services were held at St. James After receiving an Armenian education in the His rich legacy includes thousands of edito- building, which is being renovated, in honor of Armenian Church in Watertown presided over Nubarian School of Heliopolis, he studied in a rials on Armenian national, political and inter- Dr. Nubar Berberian. On the very day that this by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of French lyceum for the French baccalaureate. national issues, as well as memorable pages of room was to be inaugurated, Dr. Berberian the Diocese of the Armenian Church of He received his law degree in 1944, and regis- fiction and poetry. unexpectedly fell ill and was transported to the America (Eastern), who delivered an eloquent tered at the Egyptian Mixed Tribunal. On numerous occasions, he earned accolades hospital, never to return. His archival materials, eulogy, and conveyed a message from Driven by an unquenchable thirst for educa- from the organizations to which he belonged together with other archival compilations and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II. tion, he left for France, where he received a as well as from pan-Armenian bodies. For exam- periodical collections, will be held forever in Berberian was buried in Mount Feake doctoral degree in jurisprudence in 1947 from ple, in 2012 he received the Movses Khorenatsi this center. Cemetery of Waltham. the University of Paris School of Law. Full of Medal bestowed by the president of the TCA President Edmond Y. Azadian described Armenian patriotic fervor, he entered Republic of Armenia in Boston from Armenian Berberian’s loss with the following words: The Central Board of the Armenian public life, putting aside other career Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian. In turn, “Armenians lost a dynamic editor of the old Tekeyan Cultural Association of the United possibilities. Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II con- school who never seemed to grow old, a fight- States and Canada Most probably he was unable to form a fami- ferred on him the St. Sahag St. Mesrob medal. er who never retreated, a friend of indominable Boston, November 12, 2017 ly due to his nomadic existence. Instead, the Armenian nation and homeland constituted his family. He also dedicated himself to the care of his elderly mother, until her final advanced years. ‘You Will Burn in Hell’ His life consisted wholly of labor in the ser- vice of the Armenian nation, working as a tal- ented journalist, an articulate and compassion- HOLINESS, from page 19 moment I criticized him and called him a ive voices are of those who suffer today or ate orator and a principled leader. He played a responsible for the fall of the “holy” dictator—according to this creed, I have in the past from oppression by despotic role in nearly all of the main contemporary Ottoman Empire. But this is not all. No, committed a grave form of blasphemy and regimes. organs of the Armenian Democratic Liberal my sins did not end there… must burn. Sadly, even one of my own rel- As I was raised in a background that Party (ADL). Thus, in 1947 he accepted the edi- In Turkey, those that supported a atives is ready to throw me into the preached the denial of the Armenian geno- torship of the newspaper in Paris, after greater role for religion in the public flames. cide for a century, I totally get it why some which he edited the following organs: the daily realm suffered under the Kemalist secu- Well, this is not the end of this article. of the readers of Armenian background in Cairo (1948-1958), the thrice-weekly larists for decades, until the rise of The wonderful news is that in fact, I also might look at me with suspicion, mistrust of Fresno (1958-1960) and Boston’s Erdogan in 2002. Many saw this as a sign received overwhelmingly positive, encour- and mixed feelings. However, in my per- Baikar daily (1961-82). During the same period, from God, and here we come to the second aging, supporting, and heartening mes- sonal life as a practicing Muslim who lived he published short stories and poetry in the “sacred” narrative, in which God came to sages. his entire life in the West, I realize that we Baikar yearbook under the penname Piuragn. redeem the pious in Turkey. He did this I received notes from a variety of read- can only overcome mistrust if we listen to After retiring in 1982, he still wrote prolifi- through empowering Erdogan, bestowing ers including legislators, academics, jour- each other and try to understand one cally, with his articles published in of him with a divine mission to restore the nalists, authors, Turkish and Armenian another. I am very hopeful that we can fos- Beirut, Abaka of Montreal, Azg of Yerevan and Ottoman Empire from its ashes, like a intellectuals, religious leaders, human ter mutual understanding, caring friend- Nor Or of Los Angeles. phoenix. In this mythology, the figure of rights activists, and from friends and fam- ships and a peaceful future if we open our He became a member of the ADL in 1941, Erdogan portends the renaissance and ily who genuinely thanked me for the ears, eyes and hearts for one another. and as a young intellectual, he collaborated Golden Age of Islam. His “holy” leadership courage to articulate what thousands feel Today, I am more hopeful about the with the great Armenian leaders of the time, deserves unconditional loyalty, as it is these days but don’t dare to say out loud. future than I was yesterday. including Mihran Damadian, Vahan Tekeyan, championed by God himself. Thus, argu- One private message from a prominent Eugene Papasian and Alexander Sarukhan. ing against him or criticizing him is equal Armenian intellectual who recently fled Simultaneously, he became a member of the to rebelling against God. Indeed, in this Turkey, in which he commended me for (Ismail Akbulut is board president of a Armenian General Benevolent Union, and paradigm, a person who defies God my article, made me especially happy. Colorado-based non-profit, Multicultural enjoyed the confidence and affection of the deserves nothing more than to be cast Reading through all of the messages, I got Mosaic Foundation benefactor and president of this organization, into hellfire. I became a sinner the the impression that most of the support- (Twitter @IsmailDenver)) Alex Manoogian. Berberian became one of the founders of the