MARCH 22, 2014 MirTHErARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXIV, NO. 35, Issue 4329 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Panel on Genocide Sherman Encourages Held in Istanbul Kerry to Support Scholar Captures Tragedy, Miracle ISTANBUL (Armenpress) — A conference was held in Istanbul on March 16 devoted to the 100th Affirmation of Of Aurora Mardiganian’s Life Story anniversary of the Armenian Genocide titled “One Minute to 2015: Our past and future.” Armenian Genocide The Turkish Demokrathaber.net reported that the participating panelists called on Turkey to face WASHINGTON — By Alin Gregorian Raises its history. The first session of the conference was During a hearing this Mirror-Spectator staff week before the House Concerns entitled “2015 woman’s face” and was dedicated to Committee on Foreign the events held against the women during the Affairs, Rep. Brad Over Azeri ARLINGTON, Mass. — Armenian Genocide. It was stated that about Sherman (D-CA) In the 1920s, the name 200,000 women were kidnapped or violently killed. praised Secretary of Hostilities and face of Aurora State John Kerry for Mardiganian were well Anniversary of his Senate record on the Armenian known in the United Genocide and encouraged him to continue States and beyond. Her Tehlirian Assassination to advocate for US affirmation. autobiography, Ravished ”I commend you as Senator Kerry for Armenia; the Story of Of Talaat Marked Aurora Mardiganian , was your incredible record fighting for the BERLIN (PanArmenian.net) — March 15 marked recognition of the Armenian Genocide and a bestseller and the movie based on it, “An the 93rd anniversary of the assassination of Talaat hope that as Pasha by Soghomon Tehlirian in Berlin. The assas - Secretary Kerry you Auction of Souls,” was a hit too. sination was part of Operation Nemesis, a covert will do likewise,” effort by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation. stated Sherman. However, in the ensuing decades, Tehlirian assassinated Talaat in front of witness - Inviting Kerry to es as an act of vengeance for his role in orchestrat - submit his answers she was forgotten, becoming another ing the Armenian Genocide. Tehlirian was tried for for the record, murder, but was eventually acquitted by the Sherman also raised one of the anony - mous casualties of Above: A photo from German court. The trial of Tehlirian was a sensa - concerns about 1929, when Mardiganian tional event at the time. It examined not only Azerbaijan’s hostile the Armenian Genocide. was 28. Below: A movie Tehlirian’s actions but also his conviction that acts against poster for “Ravished She is now being Talaat was the main person behind the Genocide. Rep. Brad Sherman Armenians and Armenia,” previously reclaimed by the The defense attorneys made no attempt to deny (D-CA) recounted the brutal titled, “Auction of Souls” that Tehlirian had killed a man, and instead focused murder in Hungary Armenians in an effort led by Dr. on the influence of the Armenian Genocide on at a 2004 NATO Tehlirian’s mental state. Partnership for Peace training program of Hayk Demoyan, director of the It took the jury slightly over an hour to render a Armenian Army Lieutenant Gurgen verdict of “not guilty” based on the account of Margaryan by Azeri Army Lieutenant Ramil Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute in Yerevan. Demoyan presented an illustrated lecture about Mardiganian on March 8 at Tehlirian’s experience during the Genocide. Safarov, as well as continued threats by Tehlirian died in 1960 in San Francisco. Azerbaijan’s president to shoot down any the Armenian Cultural Foundation, at a program co-sponsored by the founda - planes flying in and out of the Stepanakert tion, the Armenian International Women’s Association and the National airport in the Republic of Nagorno Association for Armenian Studies and Research. Villagers in Turkey Karabagh. see MARDIGANIAN, page 12 see SHERMAN, page 16 Seek Renovations for Church Used as Barn Turkey Suspends Ex-Police Intelligence Switzerland Files VAN (Hurriyet Daily News) — A historical structure here which once was an Armenian church, has Suit in ECHR been converted into a hayloft after serving as a Head for ‘Negligence’ in Dink Case school for some time. ISTANBUL (Hurriyet Daily News) — A for - Akyürek’s dismissal on the basis that he Grand Chamber Villagers filled the former church in the Korlu vil - mer police intelligence head accused of “tarnished the image and credibility of the lage of the Çatak district, 18 miles from Van, and “negligence” over the murder of the police department” due to his negligence in In Perinçek Case appealed to the authorities to renovate it. Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink Dink’s murder. Van Culture and Tourism Provincial Director has been suspended from duty following a Police officers who notified Akyürek of BERN (Armenpress) — Switzerland Muzaffer Aktug said the renovation could be start - long internal investigation, even though an his suspension March 16 also seized his requested that the European Court of ed soon. police identity and gun. Human Rights have the case of Dogu Villagers have attached a wooden door to the Akyürek had controversially Perinçek referred to the Grand church, some parts of which are about to collapse, received two promotions after Chamber for review, the Federal Office and tried to restore it to prevent it from collapsing. serving as the head of police intel - of Justice (FoJ) announced. A review Tourists had come to the village to look at the ligence, despite claims of wrong - would clarify the scope available to the church, but it was mostly neglected. doing during Dink’s murder. Swiss authorities in applying Swiss Many of the villagers had been students atted - He was first appointed as the criminal law to combat racism. ning the school. head of the Department of In the Grand Chamber’s judgment in Strategy Development and then the case of Perinçek v. Switzerland, as the head of the Inspection which is not final, the European Court Board in the Police Department of Human Rights held, by a majority, INSI DE Headquarters — despite being the that there had been a violation of subject to an investigation him - Article 10 (freedom of expression) of Ramazan Akyürek self. The Interior Ministry dis - the European Convention on Human charged Akyürek from his post in Rights. The case concerned the criminal Komitas connection to those accusations conviction of Perinçek for publicly chal - administrative court initially rejected in October 2013 and appointed lenging the existence of the Armenian demands for his removal. him as an expert to the Department of genocide. The ruling of December 17, Film Ramazan Akyürek, who served as the Strategy Development, where he served 2013, where the competent chamber of Page 10 head of police intelligence between May until being removed as part of the mass the European Court of Human Rights 2006 and October 2009, received a notice purges in the wake of the December 17, determined that the Swiss courts’ rul - of suspension on the grounds that he 2013, graft probe. ings violated the appellant’s right to “erased information in his past duties” in a Akyürek also served as the head of the freedom of expression, is not final. manner that was contrary to regulations. police in the Black Sea province of Trabzon According to the 43rd and 44th articles INDEX Dink was murdered in January 2007. between December 2003 and May 2006. of the European Convention, in three Arts and Living ...... 10 Inspectors allegedly determined that Father Andrea Santoro was murdered at a months the sides may demand that the Armenia ...... 2 some of that information Akyürek erased church in the area on February 2006 under case is reviewed by the Grand Chamber Community News...... 4 may be related to the period during which his watch. of the European Court of Human Editorial ...... 14 International ...... 3 Dink was assassinated after receiving It has been claimed that former Istanbul Rights. Employee of the Information increasing threats. Governor, Erol Çakir, made a note in Department of the Swiss Federal Office The Interior Ministry was seeking see SUSPENSION, page 16 see SWITZERLAND, page 16 2 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Habitat for Humanity Armenia Team Visits US

(Luiza Vardanyan, executive director ty to help us to mobilize resources and USAID; also HFH Armenia has coopera - of Habitat for Humanity Armenia, and efforts to fight against poverty housing in tion and collaboration with more than Armenia Participates in Seda Arzumanyan, resource develop - Armenia. Luiza Vardanyan, executive direc - 20 UN agencies and local NGOs beings a ment manager, are taking part in a tor, and me, Seda Arzumanyan, resource member of Disaster Management MITT International fundraising trip in the US April 25 development manager, from Habitat for Country team and within framework of Tourism Expo through May 9, with stops planned in Humanity Armenia will take part in the US National Platform. Massachusetts, California, Ohio and New Fundraising trip. We’ll travel from April 25 Q: What is the cost of an average YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The National York. This online interview with them till May 9, 2014 and we schedule different dwelling that you build there? Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia, along was conducted by the Mirror-Spectator meetings in Massachusetts, California, A: It is various and depends on the with 10 tourism companies, is representing last week.) Ohio and New York. construction work. For the renovation Armenia at the MITT International Travel & Q: What has the HFH Armenia accom - Our US fundraising trip plan plans to and half build completion projects, per Tourism Expo in Moscow, March 19-22. The Press plished during its years in Armenia? raise at least $60,000 to support another family support average cost is $3,000. Service of the National Competitiveness A: Habitat for Humanity International 20 low-income families in Armenia to Q: Are you in urban or rural settings? Foundation of Armenia told Armenpress that MITT is a global nonprofit Christian housing have decent, safe and affordable homes. A: Habitat Armenia national office is is Russia’s largest travel exhibition with more than organization that seeks to put God’s love 1,800 participating companies from 198 destina- into action by bringing people together to tions. In 2013, the event recorded an attendance of build homes, communities and hope. In 37,000 visitors. Armenia Habitat aim is to eliminate pover - Armenia’s rich cultural, historical and Christian ty housing by serving low-income families heritage is being presented in travel guides and and improving their living conditions. maps in Russian during the exhibition. The Russian Since its establishment in the year market is one of the target destinations of NCFA’s 2000, Habitat for Humanity Armenia has tourism promotion. Thus, Armenia’s participation served more than 3,200 low-income fam - in this travel show aims to increase the growth of ilies at housing need in Armenia. With inbound tourism flows from Russia, while maximiz- an average family size of four, that is ing the potential of Armenian-Russian cooperation more than 12,800 people whose living in the tourism sector. conditions have been improved through Habitat’s work. Habitat for Humanity Armenia tackles Armenian and Azeri FMs poverty housing through a variety of May Meet in Hague efforts, including home renovation; com - pletion of half-built homes; implementa - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Organization for tion of water and sanitation facilities; res - Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk idential buildings commonly used spaces Group Co-Chairs have offered the Armenian and renovation and energy efficiency; advo - Azerbaijani foreign ministers to meet on the side- cacy of housing policies for low-income Volunteers help construct a home. lines of the Nuclear Security Summit in The Hague. families; engagement of volunteers and The Azerbaijani APA news agency reported that the other like-minded partners; and more. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov Through Global Village program Habitat We also would like to fundraise another located in Yerevan, but we serve the fam - spoke about it at the press conference in Baku. Armenia has hosted more than 850 vol - $150,000 to start new buildings (core ilies in all regions of Armenia. “The co-chairs have a proposal. They will attend unteers that have worked hand in hand home) project and build new 3 homes for Q: Who gets a dwelling from HFH the Hague summit. We will probably meet there,” with partner families/local communities the homeless families in 2014. Besides Armenia? Mammadyarov said. taking part in construction activities. donations we are interested to find A: Currently Habitat Armenia imple - The Nuclear Security Summit will be held in The We are proud of the partnerships that investors who are willing to do social ments home renovation, repairing and Hague on March 25-26. we have forged; for example the investments in housing improvements half-built completion projects, also resi - Residential Energy Efficiency (EE) for projects. dential buildings energy efficiency and Low Income Households Project in part - Several lodges of Knights of Vartan common spaces (such as change and Turkish Citizen Stabbed nership with USAID and we look for - and Daughters of Vartan have supported upgrade roofs, elevators, entrances, win - to Death in Gumri ward to making a dramatic impact in the to Habitat for Humanity Armenia a few dows & doors, etc.) renovation projects. energy market in years to come through years. Our main target groups for those pro - GUMRI (Hetq) — Police report that Evilya our learning and coalition building. We Q: What areas of the country are you jects are: Low-income families living in Gümüstek, a citizen of Turkey, died in a Gumri hos- started new project (funded by Visegrad focusing on? substandard housing, low-income pital as a result of stab wounds, on March 15. Foundation) to improve legislative and A: The housing need exists in all women-headed families living in housing Police add that the deceased had allegedly been policy environment for the management regions of Armenia that is why through need and tenants living in residential stabbed by Maksim Bakoyan during an argument. of condominiums (multi-unit apartment our partners we work in all regions of buildings. For the new build (Core) home Bakoyan has since been arrested by police. buildings). Armenia. However we host our volun - project our target group will be low- There is still much to do and as lead - teers in Tavush and Gegharkunik income homeless families. ers in the housing field we are devoted regions. Habitat for Humanity International is Stepanakert Concert to our work so that each Armenian fam - Q: Is HFH Armenia cooperating with a tax-exempt 501(C)(3) nonprofit organi - Devoted to Crimea ily can have a safe, affordable and decent other NGOs in Armenia? zation. HFH Armenia has always place to call home. A: Habitat Armenia welcomes cooper - received Unqualified Audit Opinions. STEPANAKERT (Armenpress) — A concert titled Q: What is your goal during the tour ation and partnerships. HFH Armenia You can donate online at www.habi - “Artsakh is for self-determination” was held in of the US? What is your relationship cooperates with other International and tat.org/donate/armenia or send checks Stepanakert on March 18, dedicated to the self- with the Knights of Vartan? local NGOs, such as European to Habitat for Humanity International; determination of Crimea, Nagorno Karabagh presi- A: Our US Trip main goal is to connect Commission’s INOGATE Project on ener - 121 Habitat Street Americus, GA 31709- dential spokesman Davit Babayan announced. and develop fruitful partnership with gy saving initiative in buildings, Urban 3498, with “815000 Armenia” in the “Such concerts are very frequently organized in Armenian active individuals and communi - foundation for Sustainable development, memo section of the check. Stepanakert. And since Crimea has recently received self-determination, the first concert of this year is devoted to Crimea. In this way Artsakh the title of Meritorious expresses its position to the most important issue Sculptor Ara Artist of Armenia. In 1987 of self-determination of countries,” Babayan said. he was elected the presi - dent of the Artists’ Union of Emergency Airlift to Be Shiraz Dies Armenia, and a member of the Secretariat of the Set up in Armenia YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Sculptor Artists’ Union of the USSR. Ara Shiraz died on March 17 at the age Shiraz’s most renowned YEREVAN (PanArmenian.net) — Armenia’s of 73 in the intensive care unit of Nairi works include the busts of Emergency Ministry plans to set up an emergency Medical Centre. Shiraz was rushed to Pablo Picasso, Yervand airline. The draft decision, submitted by Emergency the hospital on February 24 having lost Kochar, Hovhannes Shiraz Minister Armen Yeritsyan, was scheduled to be dis- consciousness. and Vruir Galstian. Many of cussed at the cabinet meeting due on March 6. Shiraz was the son of Armenian liter - Ara Shiraz his sculptures are in perma - The aim of the airline will be to participate in the ary legends, Hovhannes Shiraz’s and nent exhibit in the Modern humanitarian mission of the Armenian-Russian Silva Kaputikyan. Art Museum of Armenia Humanitarian Center; to prevent, reduce and liqui- He was born in Yerevan in 1941. He (Paris, 1970). and the State Gallery of Armenia in date possible consequences of emergency situa- graduated the Yerevan Theatre and Shiraz was known for his monumen - Yerevan, the Tretyakov Gallery and the tions; to carry out air transportation of rescuers Fine Arts Institute in 1966. He had tal sculptures, such as the monuments Eastern Nations Museum of Art in and rescue crews; to transport rescue equipment; participated in numerous exhibitions of Paruyr Sevag (Yerevan, 1974), Moscow. to carry out firefighting operations with the help of in Armenia and the Soviet Union. Yeghishe Charents (Charentsavan, His paintings and sculptures are planes and helicopters; to prevent and reduce pos- Since 1968 he was a member of the 1977), Alexander Miasnikyan (Yerevan, found in many private collections sible consequences of other emergency situations; Artists’ Union of Armenia. His works 1980) and William Saroyan (Yerevan’s throughout the world. to transport and evacuate population and victims had been exhibited in Moscow, Pantheon, 1991). One of his more recent works was a and to transport humanitarian cargos. Leningrad (St. Petersburg) and Tbilisi In 1979 he received the State Award statue of General Andranik, finished as part of solo and group shows. He of Armenia for his ornamental sculp - in 2002, sitting on two horses sym - took part in the Festival of Armenian tures decorating the facade of Dvin bolizing Western and Eastern Art “From Urartu to the Present” Hotel in Yerevan. In 1977 he received Armenia united. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Lawmakers in Crimea Move Swiftly International News To Split From Ukraine Ivory Auction Breaks French Price Records secession, the Kremlin said in a state - NICE, France (AFP) — A French auction of legal By David M. Hersezenhorn and Alan Cowellmarch ment. ivory broke records on Saturday, with prices reach- “The referendum was organized in ing up to 1,000 euros a kilogram ($630 a pound), such a way as to guarantee Crimea’s according to Alexander Debussy, associate director SIMFEROPOL, Ukraine (New York declaring that the laws of Ukraine no population the possibility to freely of auction house Cannes Encheres. Times) — In the face of stern interna - longer applied to Crimea and that state express their will and exercise their All of the lots were acquired before 1976 — the tional criticism a day after a disputed funds and all other state property of right to self-determination,” the only type of ivory that can be legally sold since a referendum, the Parliament of the Ukraine in Crimea had been transferred Kremlin’s statement on the latest of a global ban on the trade in 1989. breakaway republic of Crimea declared to their new entity. series of conversations between the two The top lot — two tusks weighing 120 kilograms its independence from Ukraine on On Sunday, the referendum on the leaders said. (265 pounds) from an elephant that was “shot in Monday, formally asking Russia to status of Crimea divided the population Putin also continued to raise the 1966 by an Italian fighter in Kenya” — went to a annex it and moving swiftly to cement of the multicultural region. issue of violence and protests in other wealthy Qatari for 125,000 euros, the auction its rupture with the authorities in Kiev. The Council of the Autonomous parts of Ukraine, which have stoked house said. Officials in Simferopol, the regional Republic of Crimea was renamed the fears that Russia could move forces An Armenian collector paid almost 69,000 euros capital, jubilantly announced that State Council of the Republic of Crimea, beyond Crimea. for another lot, which included two tusks around almost 97 percent of voters on Sunday and legislators formally appealed to He told Obama that “the current 230 centimeters (90 inches) long from an elephant had supported secession. Russia to accept Crimea as part of the authorities in Kiev have so far failed to killed in the Central African Republic in the 1960s. Hours later, in the first Western Russian Federation. demonstrate the ability and desire to response, both the Obama administra - In Sevastopol, the City Council took rein in the ultranationalist and radical tion and foreign ministers from the 28- similar steps, voting to confirm the ref - groups that are destabilizing the situa - Hungarian Ombudsman nation European Union announced that erendum result. tion in the country and terrorizing ordi - they had imposed travel bans and asset Without questions or debate, the nary people, including the Russian- Slams Govt. over Azeri freezes on people they blamed for the Council passed a unanimous resolution speaking population and Russia’s com - moves to wrest Crimea from Ukrainian to request that Sevastopol become part patriots,” the Kremlin statement said. Killer’s Extradition control. of the Russian Federation as a “city of Crimea’s new prime minister, Sergei BUDAPEST (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Hungarian The European ministers did not federal significance,” a status now held Aksyonov, told Russian state television ombudsman Laszlo Szekely addressed a report on immediately identify the 21 names on by Moscow and St. Petersburg that that a delegation from the region would extradition of Azeri murderer Ramil Safarov to his their list, which is most likely the first grants special administrative and bud - arrive in Moscow to begin discussions Armenian counterpart, Karen Andreasyan. stage in an escalating schedule of sanc - getary privileges. on the process of annexation. The In his report, the human rights defender tions. But an executive order signed by Meanwhile, a stalemate continued at deputy speaker of Russia’s lower house slammed the actions of Hungarian government, President Obama targeted several military bases around Crimea where of Parliament, Sergei Neverov, said that specifically those of the minister of justice, leading named officials in President Vladimir V. Ukrainian forces have been surrounded Russian lawmakers would act shortly. to Safarov’s extradition. He also criticized the gov- Putin’s inner circle, and the White and blocked by Russian troops but are “The high voter turnout and the vast ernment for failing to demand guarantees that the House threatened to go after more if refusing to surrender. support for Crimea’s accession to criminal will continue serving his sentence in Russia did not back down. The Parliament in Kiev approved a Russia speak for themselves,” he was Azerbaijan. Diplomats said the European mea - presidential decree authorizing the call- quoted by Interfax as saying. “The minister’s actions jeopardized the principle sures would affect 10 people in Russia, up of 20,000 reservists to the armed One of the ministers attending the of the supremacy of law, undermining his compa- eight Crimeans and three Russian mili - forces and another 20,000 to a newly Brussels meeting, Sebastian Kurz of triots’ trust in justice in his own country,” he tary officers connected to the Black Sea formed national guard. The interim gov - Austria, gave a strong indication that wrote. Fleet, which is based in the Crimean ernment in Kiev also increased the mili - the punitive European measures would Lt. Gurgen Margaryan, 26, was hacked to death port of Sevastopol. The tally fell short of tary budget with an emergency allot - not initially reach into the highest eche - by a fellow Azerbaijani participant, Safarov, in a more expansive list supported by the ment of about $680 million that will be lons of Russia’s powerful energy com - Budapest. United States and more hawkish disbursed over the next three months. panies, which are close to the Kremlin. On April 13, 2006, Budapest District Court sen- European nations but nonetheless was Though it signaled a muscular mili - In a radio interview, Kurz said the ref - tenced Safarov to life in prison for murdering the first time the European Union had tary stance, the significance of the call- erendum would trigger an array of mea - Margaryan. In 2012, Safarov was extradited to adopted economic sanctions against ups was unclear as the Ukrainian gov - sures including visa bans and the freez - Azerbaijan and pardoned by Azerbaijani President Russia. ernment had announced a general ing of assets held by political and mili - Ilham Aliyev immediately. Moscow has embraced the result of mobilization of reserves two weeks ear - tary figures who orchestrated Russia’s According to some reports, Safarov was extradit- the voting Sunday, but Putin has not lier. intervention in Crimea, Reuters report - ed to Azerbaijan in exchange for Azeri purchase of formally declared his intent to annex The Ukrainian defense minister, Ihor ed. Hungarian securities worth Euro 2-3 billion, an the strategic territory. Tenyukh, said Monday that he had Asked whether the list would include information official Budapest denies. The Russian leader was scheduled to negotiated a truce with the comman - the heads of the energy giants Gazprom make a speech on developments in the ders of the Russian Black Sea Fleet and and Rosneft, as reported on Friday in region on Tuesday. the Russian Defense Ministry, affecting Germany, Kurz replied, “This is not Argentine Senate Honors On Monday, the Russian Foreign Ukrainian military units stationed in expected at this time.” Ministry published a lengthy statement Crimea and surrounded by Russian Germany on Monday forcefully Dr. Daniel Stamboulian outlining its proposals for resolving troops wearing uniforms without demanded that European observers be BUENOS AIRES (Agencia Prensa Armenia) — The Ukraine’s political crisis, saying that insignia. dispatched “as soon as possible” to pre - Argentine Senate honored Dr. Daniel Stamboulian Foreign Minister Sergey V. Lavrov had The truce will extend through March vent further destabilization in eastern on Thursday, March 13, with the “Senator Domingo presented the plans to his counterparts 21, he said, and will allow the Ukrainian Ukraine and reiterated that Berlin and Faustino Sarmiento” award in recognition for his in Europe and the United States a week military to resupply bases, which have its European partners considered work in the field of health. earlier. been running low on food. Most impor - Sunday’s referendum illegal and its The award, an initiative submitted by Senator Dr. The proposals — including the recog - tant, the truce appears to reduce the results null and void. Maria Laura Leguizamon, has been awarded since nition of Crimea’s right “to determine possibility of an immediate confronta - While calling for a “clear reaction” 2004 to those who improve the quality of life of its own destiny” — contradicted many tion over any of the bases if Russia for - from the European Union, and stressing people in the community through cultural, athletic, American, European and Ukrainian mally annexes the peninsula in the com - that Germany supports sanctions, the professional and academic work, and is the highest positions, making it unlikely that Russia ing days. government spokesman, Steffen distinction given by the Argentinean Senate. The would win broad diplomatic support The European foreign ministers meet - Seibert, indicated that Germany — former President of Argentina Carlos Saul Menem even though it endorsed the creation of ing in Brussels made clear that they which stands to lose perhaps the most if attended the event. a “contact group” of diplomats to medi - were not considering a military sanctions are imposed on Russia — is Stamboulian graduated with honors from the ate. response. “We are not looking at mili - still pursuing diplomatic avenues. University of Buenos Aires in 1962. He was a pio- The ministry called for a return to the tary options here,” Foreign Secretary Putin gave a “positive assessment” neer in founding the Infectious Diseases section in agreement of Feb. 21 arranged by three William Hague of Britain said in a radio on Sunday when Chancellor Angela hospitals of Argentina. He created the Foundation European foreign ministers, although it interview. “This is not about a Crimean Merkel urged the dispatch of observers Center of Infectious Diseases Studies (FUNCEI) in has been overtaken by events. It called war.” from the Organization for Security and 1987 and the Fighting Infectious Diseases in for a national assembly to draft a new The referendum on Sunday — in Stirring up further trouble in eastern Emerging Countries (FIDEC) in 2001, a non-profit constitution creating a federal system of which 96.77 percent of voters support - Ukraine, Seibert added, is “dangerous organization based in Miami that is focused on government that would shift significant ed breaking from Ukraine and joining and unacceptable.” emerging markets. Stamboulian is also the director power to the regions “reflecting the cul - the Russian Federation — was greeted Meanwhile, the ambassador of Kiev in of Stamboulian Health Services and the president tural and historical specificity of each of as a triumph in Moscow on Monday, Armenia said that the country will con - of Helios Health, dedicated to HIV patients. them.” The document also urged that and lawmakers there promised to move tinue its cooperation regardless of the Leguizamon explained that “the Senate should Russian be made a second official lan - quickly to adopt legislation to absorb situation in Ukraine, Armenian media give a space to medicine” and stressed the impor- guage. Crimea into the Russian Federation. reported. tance of “the life story” of Dr. Stamboulian, who In Simferopol, the Crimean capital, “Crimea returns to Russia!” a headline At a March 13 news conference in was “son of Armenian immigrants and studied in celebrations continued Monday and offi - in Komsomolskaya Pravda said, while Yerevan, Ivan Kukhta pointed out the Argentina.” cials declared a day off from work. Nezavisimaya Gazeta declared that cooperation and increasing trade In addition to his work in his native Argentina, Legislators, however, were moving “Kiev lost Crimea.” turnover between the countries, with he frequently visited Armenia to provide help assertively to set the break from Putin told President Obama on Ukraine home to an extensive Armenian through vaccination campaigns and training of pro- Ukraine in motion, announcing that the Sunday that the referendum in Crimea community presented in Ukraine’s state fessionals in different areas and regions. authorities in the Ukrainian capital had was legal and cited the independence of and local governance bodies. no power in Crimea. Kosovo — which Russia has not recog - (PanArmenian.net contributed to this The legislators adopted a resolution nized — as the precedent for Crimea’s report.) 4 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

Saintly Women’s ATP May 4 Event in Day Program LA Will Kick off Raises Awareness 20th Anniversary Commemoration By David Luhrssen Activities

GREENFIELD, Wis. — The statistics are star - WATERTOWN — Twenty two years ago phil - tling. According to statistics quoted by Rev. anthropist Carolyn Mugar witnessed the cutting Vazken Movsesian, one woman is physically and burning of thousands of trees in Armenia assaulted every nine seconds in the US and so that families could survive the severe short - three women die in America each day at the ages the country faced in the aftermath of the hands of husbands and boyfriends. Movsesian earthquake, and during the conflict with neigh - was speaking at the annual Saintly Women’s boring Azerbaijan. Committed to preventing Day, sponsored by the Eastern Diocese of the further deforestation, Mugar and her husband, Armenian Church and hosted on March 15 by the late John O’Connor, decided to do some - St. John the Baptist Armenian Church in thing. By 1994, Armenia Tree Project (ATP) Greenfield. Some 80 women and men from was established. southeast Wisconsin and northern Illinois gath - Today, the organization has planted more ered for worship service, lunch and Movsesian’s than 4.4 million trees during 40 seasons of talk on Datev Outreach, the social service orga - planting, established three nurseries and two nization he founded to assist abused Armenian environmental education centers and has women in the Los Angeles area. Connie Koumjian and other AVC volunteers recycling flowers at Tsitsernagaberd greened villages, churches, parks and open Movsesian has been a well-known activist in on April 26, 2013 as part of annual program spearheaded by the Fund for the spaces throughout Armenia. “In the process, the Armenian Church’s Western Diocese. Protection of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) ATP has provided employment for hundreds of Currently the pastor of St. Peter Church in people,” explains Managing Director Tom Glendale, Movsesian was a pioneer in bringing Garabedian. “We are grateful for the vision of the Armenian Church to the worldwide web our founder, and the many partners with whom and has worked to put the church at the fore - AVC Professional Corps: we have worked over the years.” front of human rights issues. He has raised To celebrate ATP’s 20th anniversary, volun - money and awareness for genocide survivors in teer committees are organizing events in Los the Sudan and other troubled regions. Getting Intimate with Armenia Angeles, Boston, and Yerevan. The first of these “What does it mean to be Genocide sur - celebrations will take place on the grounds of vivors?” he asked the Saintly Women’s Day Through Service the historic Huntington Library and Botanical audience. “It shouldn’t still be ‘Please help us!’ Gardens in San Marino, California on May 4, It should now be, ‘We’ll help you!’” YEREVAN and NEW YORK — In her application to Armenian Volunteer Corps That spirit of helping infuses Datev Outreach, (AVC), Connie Koumjian, 59, wrote “The desire to serve the people of Armenia run out of the Western Diocesan headquarters came to me gradually.” After many years in New York City, she had just recently under the auspices of Archbishop Hovnan started to attend Armenian Church where she also sang in the choir; and this Derderian, the Primate and staffed by volun - awoke her interest in Armenia, the land and the people, the culture and tradi - teers. The project was sparked by a shocking tions. It didn’t take long for her to decide that she needed to learn more, so she incident several years ago when a Glendale signed up for a volunteer trip to Armenia through the Fuller Center for Housing. Armenian woman, beaten by her husband, was Connie spent one month in Armenia in the summer of 2011, working on a refused help by her Armenian neighbors. Her house-building project in Vanadzor and then discovering the art of iconography in Good Samaritan that day was African Yerevan. But it wasn’t enough. Back in New York, she realized that the trip had American. Datev (“to give wings” in Armenian) given her great joy and that learning about her heritage as an Armenian was a Outreach, was organized to provide support very enriching experience. And so the decision was made; she would return to and resources for abused women through the Armenia for a longer-term stay to live and work with her brethren, this time power of love, as expressed in the Armenian through Armenian Volunteer Corps (AVC). Church. Datev Outreach reaches out to equip Connie arrived in Armenia in March 2013 with a keen desire to serve her home - victims and families through education to lead land. Over the course of 10 months, she was able to experience life as a resident independent lives and to break the wall of of Armenia. For the first two months, she lived with a host-family, but once she shame that has kept spousal abuse from being was acclimated and confident that she could get by independently, she moved into discussed in the Armenian community. To that her own apartment and began living like a native — paying rent, shopping and end, Movsesian organized a Walk Against cooking for herself, chatting with neighbors, making friends…and of course, going Violence whose marchers bore signs with Datev to work. Outreach’s motto: “Violence Hurts, Love Work in Koumjian’s case involved multiple volunteer placements. Based on her Conquers.” background as a social worker in New York City where she had worked in a vari - Datev Outreach has also begun to aid ety of settings with disadvantaged and immigrant populations in the Bronx, Armenian children of abuse by finding Armenian Brooklyn and Manhattan, assisting them with family issues and addiction-related foster parents. In what Movsesian described as “a problems, as well as her extensive volunteer work, AVC was able to arrange ser - Carolyn Mugar miracle of God,” the Patriarch of Jerusalem hap - vice opportunities that would benefit from her years of experience. In Yerevan, Koumjian spent part of each week helping at a soup-kitchen and a pened to be visiting the Western Diocese and wit - 2014. Mugar will attend the program. center for the elderly. She admits that at times the work was quite hard, but it nessed the conclusion of the Walk Against In Boston, the Atrium of the John Joseph was always very fulfilling. “The workers at the jasharan (soup-kitchen) were very Violence. He pledged assistance. Moakley United States Courthouse overlooking warm and kind; I developed rewarding friendships there with both the staff and Movsesian’s talk was preceded by a vegan Boston Harbor will be the site of a November 8 the guests and had many interesting conversations — and they helped me practice potluck prepared according to the traditional celebration, headed by committee co-chairs my Armenian! I was welcomed at the dzeranots (senior center) and made some Armenian Lenten fast and a church service con - Nina Festekjian and Nicole Babikian Hajjar. very meaningful contacts there; that experience gave me interesting cultural ducted by Movsesian and clergy from the As details about the celebrations in Los insights into Armenia.” Midwest including Rev. Nareg Keutelian, Very Angeles and Boston are released in the coming Koumjian also volunteered at Real World Real People (RWRP), a non-govern - Rev. Aren Jebejian, Rev. Hovhan Khoja- weeks, ATP will also unveil a new logo and web - mental organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life of people liv - Eynatyun and Rev. Sahag Kashian. site to give the organization a new look and ing with HIV and their families through social, psychological and legal sup - For further information on Datev Outreach, broaden its scope in Armenia and the Diaspora. port, and improved access to treatment, care and prevention. Although Connie’s visit its website (www.datevoutreach.org). “Our traditional base of support has been Armenian skills limited the amount of direct consultations she could have with the Armenian-American community with beneficiaries at RWRP, her extensive experience enabled her to focus her efforts donors in all 50 states, but we hope to expand on program development — specifically working on developing and implementing our network throughout the Diaspora,” contin - a 12-step recovery support group for people recovering from substance abuse ues Garabedian. (alcohol/drug abuse), a first for Armenia. The process included obtaining the “We hope to further internationalize the donation and delivery of the necessary books and training materials to Armenia, work of ATP. Over the past 20 years, we have which she secured through her global network of contacts. received support from 57 countries and have In her free time, when she wasn’t studying Armenian or out exploring, Koumjian had strong ties in places like Buenos Aires, also found time to pursue her love of iconography/miniature painting through Australia, Germany, Norway and Cyprus, but we weekly classes, independent practice and meetings with some of the best iconog - know there is much more to do.” raphers in Armenia today. For additional details about the May 4 gala at see AVC, page 5 Rev. Vazken Movsesian addresses the assem - the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, bled. contact Western Region Development Director Maral Habeshian at [email protected]. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS Merrimack Valley Genocide Committee Honors Movsesian

the GI Bill. He worked at Liberty Mutual for 38 By Tom Vartabedian years, winning several awards for salesmanship. For 22 years, Movsesian was an active volun - teer and chapter president with Northern Essex NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — Long active in Elder Transport, reaching out to 14 communi - Armenian Genocide issues, Albert S. Movsesian ties throughout the North Shore of Boston. left no stone unturned when it came time to Simply put, for many it became a transportation educate the public. Whether it was addressing of last resort. a class of students in some high school or As an active member of the Boston Rotary senior citizens at the Council on Aging, Club, among his golden deeds was serving Movsesian would speak to his audiences on the meals to deprived people and catering to their Armenian Orphan Rug and Near East Relief — essential needs. He was also a Big Brother for two topics that have remained near and dear to 44 years and member of Saggahew Lodge of his heart. Haverhill over five decades. These days, he sits inside a rest home, reliv - He’s been a board member for 15 years with ing the good old days and regaling his fellow the North Andover Council on Aging. He often residents with stories of Armenian history and reminisced about his days as a competitive ten - culture. Albert S. Movsesian is honored by the Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee of nis player; his passion for bee-keeping (apicul - Members of the Armenian Genocide Merrimack Valley for his diligent service to the Armenian community over the years. Presenting him ture) and the arboretum he maintained on his Commemorative Committee of Merrimack with a token of appreciation is Chairwoman Sossy Jeknavorian. property in North Andover. Valley turned out at Ashland Farms to pay In recent years, he lost his beloved wife Movsesian his due accord. Charlotte and sister Nancy, both active in They presented the activist with a framed over 30 years with the Merrimack Valley America and Hye Pointe Armenian Church, Armenian affairs. The double tragedy took its photograph of his beloved Armenia, along with Genocide Committee. As a member of the where he taught Sunday School and served as toll on the individual. some choice words from his colleagues. Knights of Vartan, he has helped dispatch med - a Diocesan delegate and Parish Council mem - Whether it was a “handout” or simply a “hand,” “Few have done more to perpetuate the ical supplies to Armenia through the ber for more than 55 years. Movsesian always had his arm extended. Armenian heritage in Merrimack Valley than International Medical Equipment Collaborative His efforts earned him a St. Nerses Shnorhali “I’ve always tried to remain upbeat and pos - Al,” said Chairwoman Sossy Jeknavorian. “He’s (IMEC). Medal for Distinguished Service. itive, no matter what the circumstances,” he been an inspiration to our community in many Among his other associations have been the A World War II veteran with the Army Air told his friends. “We must serve our nation and ways. He’s never failed to answer the call.” Armenian Genocide Education Committee of Corps, Movsesian served as a radar technician church with dignity and honor. It’s been a very It has been a career that has manifested itself Merrimack Valley; Armenian Museum of before graduating from Boston University on humble and rewarding experience.” Archbishop Barsamian Visits St. James Church, Ordains Acolytes

WATERTOWN — On Sunday, March 2, orated on Thursday, February 27. He encour - our Christian identity is not invulnerable. It is at the altar and expanding their knowledge and Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the aged young people to draw lessons from the something we must strengthen and safeguard experience.” Diocese of the Armenian Church of America perseverance demonstrated by St. Vartan and each day, as we strive to follow in the example The Primate also congratulated the newly (Eastern), visited St. James Armenian Church, his soldiers, who were outnumbered by the set for us by Christ.” ordained altar servers and their families. In where he ordained young altar servers. Persian enemy, but nonetheless stood firm in During Sunday’s services, Archbishop addition, he expressed his appreciation to mem - Rev. Arakel Aljalian, parish pastor, celebrated their resolve to protect their faith. Barsamian ordained Nareg Kalaydjian, Jivan bers of the ACYOA Juniors, who recently joined the Divine Liturgy, with the Primate presiding. “The Battle of Avarayr changed the course of Purutyan, and Haig Yeterian to the rank of the St. James choir and sang the hymns of the Also taking part in the service were the Very Armenian history. At a time when Christianity acolyte. Aaron Derderian, Ari Kazanjian, Raffi Divine Liturgy on Sunday. Rev. Krikor Maksoudian and Rev. Arsen was under great threat in our homeland, St. Kazanjian, William Musserian, James Najarian Later that afternoon, the Sunday School and Barsamian. Vartan and his brave soldiers came forward to and Simon Tacvorian were ordained acolytes Armenian School jointly hosted a Poon Archbishop Barsamian gave a sermon on the defend their faith,” Archbishop Barsamian said. and sub-deacons. Paregentan celebration, featuring a guest ven - significance of the fifth-century Battle of “Today we are fortunate to live in a society “I’m proud of our youth for their dedication triloquist whose performance highlighted sto - Avarayr, which the Armenian Church commem - where we are free from persecution, but even so and willingness to serve in the Armenian ries from the Gospels. Parish children received Church,” Aljalian said. “These young men have this year’s Diocesan Lenten Resource-an inter - been active in our parish for many years, and I active activity wheel and guide produced by the look forward to them continuing their service Diocese’s Christian Education staff. !"#$%$&'()'* % ' '$ #'!"#$%$& () ** % $ #  "#  "'$)'( $'$& ' *&$')'#"$# '%&)#"& '  '  "#  " $) ( $ $&  *&$ ) #"$# %&)#"&    #$"#'#"%&' '#$$ "# #"%&    !!"'''" #$#$ '%'% #$" *' ##$" * !"#$%&'()*&#" # '!!"#$%& ()*&#"" #

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian with the young altar servers

Getting Intimate with Armenia through Service !)$ ''!))$   AVC, from page 4 practice her Armenian as much as possible Of her experience, she said, “As a Christian, I and, more importantly, that she would return  *&$''#*&$ "')'#"$# ' *&$  ##*&$ " ) ##"$# have always considered it important to serve. I very soon! enjoy sharing with others their experiences, Founded in 2000, AVC invites individuals 21 9 $ " #() #' %'('0':"* &(')&##" # '9 $ " #() #  % ( 0 :"* &( )&##" # learning about their needs and being in a car - years of age and older, of all backgrounds from ing relationship with others. Serving in across the globe, to volunteer in Armenia for !)'>" $'!) >" $ ;--8;--8 '% "'% ") ') #() '% " % ") ) #(() Armenia was extra special for me as it afforded two weeks to one year. In addition to place - me the opportunity to know the country and ments, AVC provides all logistical support from :"1 # ':)$) %')&"%&':"1 # :)$) % )&"%&  << ' "'  "$' <<   "   "$ culture of my heritage more intimately. I am airport pick-up, to host-family living arrange - !"-'("#5 '$8'/')#1" * '!"- ("#5 $8 / )#1" * $ $' %) $'= $&'# '$ $'9'$ $  %) $ = $& #  $ $ 9 proud to have served as an AVC volunteer in ments, Armenian language classes, and more, in ' &  "'#() $'&  "'#() $ Armenia and to have been able to share my partnership with its sister organization )&" ( '#& " * # '+,-#.' !/)&" ( #& " * # +,-#.' !/  #' #' love, concern, skills and time.” Birthright Armenia. To date, more than 550 vol - 0 "# "' 1 "%& # '+2!#.'-!3/-3!-'0 "# "  1 "%& # +2!#.'-!3/-3!-' Koumjian is now back in the United States unteers from 34 countries have served in hun - where she has resumed her work with the dreds of organizations throughout Armenia. %"%&# '4  $'&5$6617$8%)167 *&$/)/'#"$# /#"#"#$6 "/# % '%"%&# 4  $ &5$6617$8%)167 *&$/)/'#"$# /#"#"#$6 "/# % marginalized and less fortunate. Before she For more information, visit ' left Armenia, she promised that she would www.armenianvolunteer.org. 6 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Providence Church Celebrates Centennial Rouben Shougarian, Armen Baibourtian to Speak PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The parish of Sts. Sahag and Mesrob is preparing for a season of On UN, Armenia and Karabagh at BU Event celebrations in honor of its centennial year, which will culminate the weekend of June 14, BOSTON — Former ambassadors Rouben Baibourtian will address “The United under the auspices of Archbishop Khajag Shougarian and Armen Baibourtian will Nations on the Ground in Armenia: Barsamian, Primate of the Armenian Church of speak at Boston University on Wednesday, Human Development Impact America, Eastern. March 26, at 5:30 p.m., at the Castle, 225 Assessment.” Baibourtian served as post- The weekend of festivities begins on Friday, Bay State Road, as part of the Kenosian Soviet Armenia’s deputy permanent rep - June 13. Conductor Konstantine Petrossian will Chair Current Issues Series, on “The United resentative to the UN in New York (1993- lead the Armenian Chorales and Orchestra of Nations, Armenia, and the Sovereignty of 1995), as the first consul general in Los Rhode Island and Greater Worcester in a con - Nagorno Karabagh.” The event is organized Angeles (1995-1997), as well as first cert celebrating a century of faith, hope and by the Charles K. and Elisabeth M. Kenosian ambassador to India, Nepal, Sri Lanka light. The concert, held at the new Sts. Mina Chair in Modern and Mary Coptic Orthodox Church in Cranston, Armenian History and will feature soloists from Armenia, New York, Literature at Boston Massachusetts and Rhode Island. University and co-spon - Saturday, June 14 features the Gala sored by the Centennial Banquet at the Marriott Hotel on Department of History, Orms Street in Providence. The Mistress of Rep. Katherine Kazarian the Department of Ceremonies for the evening will be Rhode International Relations, Island state Rep. Katherine Kazarian. Father and the National Mardiros Chevian, dean of St. Nersess Centennial Divine Liturgy in honor of the first Association for Seminary, who is originally from Providence, Badarak celebrated on January 20, 1914. After Armenian Studies and will give the keynote address. the service, parishioners gathered outside for a Research (NAASR). Barsamian will celebrate the Divine Liturgy commemorative photo. The parish’s youth orga - Shougarian will speak on the morning of Sunday, June 15. Following nizations organized a program of performances on “The the service, the Centennial Khatchar will be by the ACYOA Juniors, Armenian School, Internationalization of consecrated and a reception will be held in Sunday School, Junior Choir and Nazeli Dance the Nagorno Karabagh Egavian Hall. Group. Brunch and fellowship followed the pre - Peace Process: The Armen Baibourtian Centennial Celebrations officially began on sentation. Concept of Remedial January 26, when the parish gathered for the — Jacqueline A. Kazarian Sovereignty.” Shougarian served as post-Soviet Armenia’s and Indonesia (2000-2004). He has held first ambassador to the United States (1993- the posts of deputy foreign minister 1999), as deputy foreign minister (1999- (1997-2000; 2004-2008), Armenia’s first 2005), and as ambassador to Italy, Spain, chief negotiator with the EU (2005-2006), and Portugal (2005-2008). He was a senior and senior advisor to the UN resident staffer for the Armenian Parliament’s coordinator in Armenia (2008-2013). He Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs has written numerous articles on (1991) and a senior foreign policy aide and Armenian diplomacy and regional politics spokesperson for President Levon Ter- and is presently a lecturer at the Petrosian (1992). He is the author of two University of Massachusetts, Amherst. books: West of Eden, East of the This event is open to the public free of Chessboard (2010) and The Politics of admission. A reception will follow. Immaculate Misconception: The Ides of the For more information contact Prof. Post-Secular Age (2013). He is a lecturer at Simon Payaslian, Kenosian Chair in Modern the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy Armenian History and Literature, at at Tufts University. [email protected] or NAASR at [email protected]. Armenian Chorale and Orchestra of Rhode Island Jacqueline Karaaslanian of Luys Foundation to Speak at St. James Men’s Club WATERTOWN — Jacqueline Karaaslanian, instrumental in building cover a vast range of expertise and create effec - and doer, in addition they develop a special executive director of Luys Foundation projects with the MIT tive networked collaborations between people attachment to Armenia, discover its amazing and Education, headquartered in Yerevan, Armenian research teams, going from who are both thinkers and doers. so far untapped potential. Today Luys scholars will speak at St. James Armenian Church’s Men’s design to full implementa - “Luys scholars are creating the indispensable affirm their role as agents of positive change for Club dinner meeting on Monday April 7. tion of avant-garde technol - “brain circulation” needed for growth in every social, economic, and cultural growth. During Jacqueline Karaaslanian’s topic will be “Luys ogy rich learning environ - sector of our economy. In addition to the best this talk, we will look at the many success stories empowers transformation in Armenia.” ments. education that one can get from studying at the and the strategy and path that the new genera - Karaaslanian has experience in leading collab - Since 2009 she has been world’s top 10 universities, our scholars also tion is actively building for positive and thriving orative design, strategy development, capacity living and working in bring to Armenia the latest know-how to imple - future and how we can all join. building, and management of large-scale educa - Armenia where she heads Jacqueline ment through projects they design with local The social hour starts at 6:15 p.m., followed by tional programs worldwide. She worked with the the Educational mission of Karaaslanian communities around the country,” she has said. a complete Lenten dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are founding members of the MIT Media Lab at its the Luys Foundation. She During the entire duration of their studies, $14 per person. The dinner meeting will be at initial inception, where she worked for over 25 simultaneously manages Luys scholars implement their newly acquired the St. James Armenian Church, Charles years as director of Special Projects for the the granting of Scholarships to students world - knowledge in Armenia. They make the transition Moseian Cultural and Youth Center, Keljik Hall, Future of Learning Group, Opera of the Future wide, and the development of projects that Luys from academic life into real life achievements 465 Mount Auburn St. Open to the public and and the Media Fabrics Group. She has been scholars are seeing in the country. The projects that enriches their personal maturity as a thinker women are welcome. Telephone (617) 924-7400 Nardolillo Funeral Home Aram Bedrosian Est. 1906 Funeral Home, Inc. John K. Najarian, Jr. Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 MARION BEDROSIAN 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN www.nardolillo.com WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN

Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a Edward D. Jamie, Jr. GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Funeral Chapel Mark J. Giragosian Serving the entire Armenian Community Funeral Counselors Any Hour • Any Distance • Any Location 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 Call (718) 224-2390 Toll Free (888) 224-6088 www.giragosianfuneralhome.com Bus. Reg. 189-06 Liberty Ave., Hollis, NY 11412 Consultation Office: 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside,NY 11361 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Young Students of Sisters’ Academy Pay Tribute to Vartan Mamigonian

RADNOR, Penn. — Remembering the past students celebrated Vartanantz Day and the while preparing for the future is one of many heroic struggles of Vartan Mamigonian who values taught at the Armenian Sisters’ fought against the Persians to maintain Academy. Following these principles, Academy Christianity. Although the battle took place in 451, it is still celebrated as a religious and national holiday. At the academy, the principal, Sister Emma Moussayan, welcomed the audience of clergy, students, parents and friends to this annual cel - ebration. “At the academy we instill in the child’s heart the importance of religion by cele - brating Vartanantz Day. Our past is always pre - sent and our present is our future. With this theme we must work to ensure the existence of our nation,” she explained. Following tradition, the Montessori students opened the program with songs and poems honoring St. Vartan. The sight of the young students waving the Armenian flag and singing brought a smile to all. Vartanantz The play, performed entirely in Armenian, not only recognized the memory of Vartan and his soldiers, but also the priests who died defend - yet the triumph that Christianity was sustained. ing their faith and the Armenian women who Shant Sarkahian played the role of Vartan and gave their worldly belongings to help their hus - Ani Dardarian sang a rendition of Bulboolen bands, brothers and sons in battle. Performed Avarayri as Vartan’s mother and Sona Ani Dardarian by students in grades fourth through eighth, Bardakjian sang Yerk Vartanantz as his daugh - the production depicted the lives that were lost, ter. Sister Emma thanked upper-grade Armenian teacher Tamar Panosian and music teacher and accompanying pianist Maroush Paneyan-Nigon. UAF Ships $26M in Aid to Armenia, NKR Ovsanna Sadjonian, Armenian teacher for the GLENDALE — The United Armenian Nishan Goudsouzian ($155,000), younger grades, was also acknowledged. Fund (UAF) delivered $26 million of human - Politechnico di Milano ($154,000), Birthlink Father Nishan Bakalian from Holy Martyrs itarian assistance to Armenia and Artsakh of U.K. ($145,000), Foundation SemraPlus Congregational Church then spoke stressing from October 1, 2012 to September 30, of Switzerland ($127,000), Juliette Serabian the importance of this event and that the battle 2013, a recent audit showed. of France ($127,000), Dr. Peter Kojian of Vartan should remind us all how much The UAF spent 1 percent of its rev - ($106,000), Medical Lions Club of France Armenians love our faith. He stressed that the enues on administrative expenses. ($101,000), and Dr. Israel Charny students should use this love to carry on our Sona Bardakjian The UAF itself collected $18 million of ($100,000). Armenian traditions and customs. supplies donated by several charities, includ - Also contributing major supplies were: ing Direct Relief International ($9.1 million), Armenian Missionary Association of AmeriCares ($6.7 million), Catholic Medical America ($93,000), Achot Mission Board ($1.3 million), Feed the Schemavonian/Association de Soutien aux Wyoming House Votes Down Pro-Azerbaijan Measure Children Fund ($504,000), MAP Patriotes CHEYENNE, Wyo. — By a vote of 35 to 25, can function legally. In 2012, a number of raids International ($283,000) and Health Armeniens of France ($93,000), Armenian the Wyoming House of Representatives recent - on churches and Christian houses were report - Partners International of Canada ($95,000). Relief Society – West ($91,000), Saint ly voted down consideration of a Pro-Azerbaijan ed. Under 2010 legislation, it is illegal for unreg - Other organizations which contributed Lazare Order of France ($85,000), Dr. resolution (HJ 002), with opponents citing istered churches to meet, yet registration is goods were: World Vision – US ($2 million), Vartkes Najarian ($73,000), Friends of Baku’s repression of free speech and religious nearly impossible. Many Christians are unable Armenian Christian Mission of Australia Armenia ($72,000), International Medical intolerance as primary reasons to block the to find or keep jobs and are watched closely by ($613,000), Society for Orphaned Armenian Outreach ($71,000), Pyunik Charitable measure. secret services. By illustration, three men were Relief ($564,000), Knights of Vartan Foundation ($62,000), ARPA Institute “We are proud to see the Wyoming House of charged and detained and threatened with crim - ($354,000), Armenian Lighthouse ($52,000), Canadian Blood Services Representatives join the a growing number of inal prosecution for their faith just last year. Charitable Foundation ($277,000), ARDA ($50,000), Armenian International US States in standing strong on the fundamen - While the country is growing in its exploration Organization ($250,000), Garni Foundation Ophthalmic Association ($44,000), Michael tal American principles of democracy, freedom of minerals, I would not endorse its repression ($231,000), Focus on Children Now Ohanian ($37,000), Hrach Gevrikyan of speech and freedom of religion by rejecting of freedom of expression and assembly,” added ($213,000), St. Vartanants Armenian ($30,000), Free Wheelchair Mission such flawed measures,” stated Elen Asatryan, Winters. Apostolic Church of Mahwah, NJ ($201,000), ($29,000), Armenia Fund USA ($28,000), ANCA WR executive director. “Wyoming legis - Rep. Thomas Lockhart was also influential in Dr. Stephen Kashian of Winnetka, IL Hologic Corporation ($25,000), and Howard lators have sent a powerful message to defeating this measure, saying given ($200,000), Project Agape ($178,000), Karagheusian Commemorative Corp. Azerbaijani dictator Aliyev that a partnership Azerbaijan’s negative track record, it would be Armenian EyeCare Project ($157,000), Dr. ($24,000). with Baku is impossible as long as its oppres - premature to consider such legislation. sive tactics and campaign of hate against Audio from the Wyoming consideration of Armenians, and indeed all Christians, contin - the measure is available at: ues” added Asatryan. http://youtu.be/KXniXJJCwCo Wyoming joins Hawaii and South Dakota in In February, ANCA Executive Director Aram voting down measures backed by Azerbaijani Hamparian issued an open letter to all U.S. dictator Ilham Aliyev and his mouthpieces in state legislatures urging them to take a stand the US, attempting to whitewash Baku’s dismal against foreign interference in American civic human rights record. Similar measures current - life by corrupt Azerbaijani dictator Ilham Aliyev. ly under consideration in other states are facing “It is truly a tribute to our great American tough opposition. democratic tradition that even a regime as fla - Rep. Nathan Winters who led opposition to grantly corrupt as Ilham Aliyev’s is allowed to Wyoming said, “I am against introduction of operate freely within our open society, “ this bill. Azerbaijan has a repressive and author - explained Hamparian. “But that does not mean itarian government, which restricts freedom of that American citizens need to remain silent in expression and assembly and other religious the face of meddling by foreign leaders who nei - rights.” ther respect our rights nor share our values - The Armenian Communities Department of “This government has become more active in especially when they try to export their intoler - the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation is controlling religion; fewer and fewer churches ance to our shores.” seeking a Senior Programme Officer Reporter Wanted (Western Armenian Language). The is seeking an assistant editor, workAinrmge2n0ia-2n5Mhoirurorsr-Sapweecteakt.or The closing date for this position is 15 April 2014. The ideal candidate should have a good grasp of journalism and be willing to cover a variety of subjects. Some editing will also To find out more please visit be required. Salary commensurate with experience. www.gulbenkian.pt/ArmenianCommunities Send resumes and writing samples to [email protected]. 8 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Ne w York M E T R O Enrollment Approaching for Armenian Virtual College Spring Term Free Chess Course, Praised by President Sargisian, Offered Again

NEW YORK — Spring registration for AGBU’s Armenian Virtual College (AVC) will begin on March 14, 2014. The free AVC chess course is back by popular demand for the third consecutive term, in addition to AVC’s for-cred - it classes in Armenian language, history and culture. The AVC chess course was met with wide - spread praise when it first launched in the fall, most notably from Armenia’s President Serge Sargisian. President Sargisian and his delega - tion visited the AVC booth at the annual Digitec Expo, which draws thousands of indi - viduals and international businesses to Yerevan. There, AVC founder and AGBU Central Board member Dr. Yervant Zorian demonstrated the chess program’s user-friendly features, includ -

AVC representatives Maral Levonian, Anna Yengibaryan and Naira Gasparyan welcome students, entrepreneurs and internation - al businesses during the Digitec Expo in Yerevan.

Sargisian wasn’t the quality: “We are pleased that the AVC chess gram that aims to facilitate Armenian studies only one to take notice: course was so well-received in the fall and win - through new technologies. Courses in during last year’s World ter terms. Through events such as the Digitec Armenian language, history, and culture, are Chess Federation (FIDE) Expo, and our growing community of online offered in seven languages of instruction: Presidential Board meet - subscribers, we’ve shown that AVC is truly at Western and Eastern Armenian, English, ing in Armenia, Smbat the forefront of the e-learning movement. We French, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish. Lputyan, vice president look forward to continuing to expand our Launched in 2009, AVC classes are open to any - Armenian Virtual College founder Dr. Yervant Zorian (left) presents of the Armenian Chess reach, and connecting with even more chess tal - one who is interested in Armenian studies, AVC’s recently launched, free chess course to President Serge Federation, also applaud - ents, in the spring.” delivering a virtual classroom to students who Sargisian at the October Digitec Expo, as FIDE master and AVC chess ed the AVC model. The The AVC spring term will run from April 21 do not have access to traditional, face-to-face program specialist Aghasi Inants looks on. Federation’s chess grand - – June 24. To register for the AVC chess course Armenian educational programs, while supple - masters are among the and other AVC classes, email enrollment@avc- menting the curriculum of those who do. narrators who offer step- agbu.org. Or, visit the AVC portal at www.avc- Lessons are tailored to each student’s individual ing exercises, puzzles and quizzes — the prod - by-step instruction to students of all ages and agbu.org to create your login and submit your needs — regardless of their age, country of resi - uct of an ongoing partnership with the levels throughout the AVC course. Their exper - enrollment application. dence or knowledge level — to ensure that all Armenian Chess Federation. The state delega - tise, and AVC’s multimedia approach, has been The chess course is offered free of charge. can benefit from this unique resource. To date, tion welcomed the course as a way to further key to the initiative’s success. Standard rates apply for all other AVC courses. more than 3,000 students have enrolled from promote chess in public schools, keeping in line Zorian, who saw the program’s enrollment AGBU’s Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is over 65 countries, offering an Armenian educa - with the Ministry of Education’s mission. increase after its pilot semester, remarked on its the world’s first accredited online learning pro - tion—anytime, anywhere! S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 Ne w York M E T R O Vartanantz Day Commemorated at Unlocking the Mysteries of New York’s St. Vartan Cathedral Church Calendar es at St. Nersess Seminary and Notre Dame Lisa Kradjian. By Florence Avakian University, focused on the true meaning of In a memorable interlude, the Shnorhali By Florence Avakian Vartanantz put forth by the historian Yeghishe, Choir under the direction of Vagharshak whose “extremely refined interpretation is over - Ohanyan, accompanied on the piano by Nevart NEW YORK — Despite the passage of 15 cen - whelmingly theological. Through Yeghishe’s Dadourian, presented several songs including NEW YORK — The activities of many turies, Vartanantz remains one of the most sig - profound reflection on Vartanantz, we find the Norahrash, Plpuln Avarayri, people are guided, and even directed, by nificant events in Armenian history. Vartan key to understanding and addressing some of Sardarabad and Diramayr — the latter a soul - their adherence to their calendars. But Mamigonian and his comrades — vastly out - the most central issues in Armenian communi - ful work sung with great feeling by soloist calendars around the world are different. numbered against a well-armed Persian empire ty life and consciousness today,” he stated. Shakeh McMahon. The Armenian Church calendar is one of — lost the battle but were morally victorious, “Yeghishe calls what St. Vartan and his com - The final offering, Vartanantz Aspetner, with these unique calendars with mystery and preserving their religion and convictions. panions did ‘holy martyrdom, a valorous self- soloists Alyne Corrigan and Nicholas Bompart, hidden meanings. On Thursday, February 27, the feast day of sacrifice.’ They knowingly sacrificed their lives was offered with great enthusiasm, bringing on On Thursday evening, February 13, the decisive Battle of Avarayr was observed, for the sake of Christ. To go to battle against a repeat performance as the audience stood and the Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan, director under the auspices of the Diocese of the the Persians was to imitate Christ,” he contin - joined in rhythmically clapping and singing of the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Armenian Church of America (Eastern), and the ued. “Therefore, what we Information Center of Diocese of the Primate Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, with do as Armenians and Armenian Church of America (Eastern), the participation of the Mid-Atlantic Knights Christians represents used pictorial slides to reveal the fasci - and Daughters of Vartan. much more than ancient nating clues that decipher the ancient, Following the celebration of the Divine and colorful traditions, complicated Armenian calendar. Liturgy in St. Vartan Cathedral by Rev. and is higher than merely Findikyan, who is also professor of Abraham Malkhasyan, pastor of the Holy preserving the nation.” Liturgical Studies at St. Nersess Martyrs Church of Bayside, NY, a dinner pre - Today, we too face the Armenian Seminary and a visiting pro - pared and served by the Knights and Daughters same “invisible enemy” — fessor at Notre Dame University, began of Vartan Mid-Atlantic Lodges and Otyags took exemplified by the “disin - by explaining that Armenians always had place in the Haik and Alice Kavookjian tegration of our commu - to “balance conflicting calendars.” Auditorium. nities, our church parish - He noted that February 14 — celebrated Master of ceremonies Edward Barsamian es in the United States in America as St. Valentine’s Day — has warmly welcomed the more than 300 people with their declining num - complex meanings for the Armenian gathered to mark the importance of the event. bers of attendees, [and] Church. It is the same day as “diantarach” Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian offered the invoca - declining enthusiasm and which marks Christ’s presentation to the tion and the American and Armenian national zeal.” Hebrew Temple 40 days after his birth. The invisible enemy For Armenians, it involves lighting a fire “fragments our families, after prayer services, walking around the lures our children away fire, and blessing the four corners of the from family and church, world. For a Jewish family of the first cen - and fosters anxiety, lone - tury AD — such as Joseph and Mary — it meant taking your newborn son (in this liness, depression and Rev. Abraham Malkhasyan delivers a sermon at St. Vartan Cathedral. addictions,” he related. case, Jesus) to the holy Temple. But “the most danger - “Why did the Armenian Church devel - ous enemy of our people and community is our with the choir. op and maintain a separate calendar?” he own ignorance,” Findikyan stressed. “We must In an inspiring message, Archbishop Khajag asked. rediscover the unique expression of Christ’s Barsamian called the Vartanantz battle, “a turn - The answer seems to be: To mark gospel as revealed in the lives and writings of ing point of Armenian Church history. We cele - important chronological milestones. “We our Armenian saints, and through the mystical brate this momentous event before Lent. It is today are separated from the natural beauty of our sacred music and art. All of these not a coincidence. The story embodies the cycles; but in ancient times, people were are unique expressions of the Christian soul of Christian way of life, the life of Christ. It is a not. The calendar is a marker of ideology, the Armenian people, monuments that hold supreme example of trial and decision.” of value and of meanings. For vast significance for our lives today,” said Like Christ, the heroes of the Vartanantz battle Armenians, it’s a theology, a Christology, Findikyan to thunderous applause. and those who survived the Genocide endured an expression of our most cherished Dr. Edward Sanossian, speaking in the hardship and sacrifice, the Primate declared. beliefs in Christ.” absence of Knights of Vartan Grand And finally, the virtue of patience was illus - The Roman calendar, he related, Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan speaks about the sig - Commander Nigoghos Atinizian, called the trated by Christ, Vartan, and those in the begins with Monday. For Armenians, it nificance of the Battle of Avarayr. Battle of Avarayr “one of our greatest spiritual Genocide. starts with Sunday, the Lord’s Day: “the and moral victories, commemorating a great “We will be celebrating the 100th anniver - center of gravity of all time, the manifes - defining moment for the Armenian nation and sary of the Genocide next year — not as a cause tation of Christ himself over evil, and the anthems were sung by Christina Haroutunian spirit. Let us live by [Vartan’s] example of brav - for weeping, but for celebrating, and also for day of renewal and light.” and Nicholas Bompart, respectively. ery and heroism in standing up for our beliefs, judging our own lives,” noted the Primate. Sunday “is also the feast day of Mary, In a powerful message, keynote speaker, the and never giving up on our vision. Vartan “How much do we follow the examples of Christ the Mother-of-God, because Jesus is both Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan, director of the Mamigonian built the foundation of our exis - and Vartan? Let us sing our human and divine.” The Armenian calen - Diocese’s Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information tence as Christian Armenians, and we will for - own haghdanag (victory),” he declared with dar also includes saints’ days and fasting Center, called on all Armenians to reflect on the ever declare and honor his memory as his strong feeling, to a standing ovation. days (penitential days), he disclosed. significance and relevance of Vartanank for devoted and proud Knights of Vartan.” The evening concluded with a benediction by Sundays “are never days of fasting, or today’s world. Emma Artun was present as the representa - the Primate, and the singing of the Hayr Mer by days of penance. All these days are dif - Findikyan, a noted church scholar who teach - tive of the Daughters of Vartan Grand Matron all present. ferent from each other.” Findikyan offered a further question: “How can the church’s calendar help one to live the Gospel of Christ?” First, he advised, parishioners should “synchronize” their daily lives with the Armenian Church calendar. Second, they should read the Biblical passages appointed for each day. Third, he urged people to discover the approximately 1,200 poetic hymns (shara - gans) of the church — translations for which can be accessed at the St. Nersess Seminary website, www.stnersess.edu. Finally, he said, we must “delve beneath the surface. God is always with us. And the Armenian Church shows us a path to Him.” “We are not reaching out to a God far away. He has to come to us, which we cel - ebrate together through communion,” he said in conclusion. A question-and-answer period followed the lecture, which continued during the wine and cheese reception. The Shnorhali Choir performs. 10 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

New Film About Toronto Agency Komitas and the Hired for Armenia’s Armenian Genocide Tourism Rebrand

Select screenings have been announced for the new feature length documentary film, By Susan Krashinsky “Music to Madness – the Story of Komitas,” about the life of the Armenian priest and com - poser Komitas, who tragically went mad after TORONTO (Globe and Mail) — For a country witnessing first-hand the horrors of the trying to advertise itself to the world, the Armenian Genocide. The film is written and anniversary of a genocide would not seem to be directed by David Robert Deranian, PhD and the ideal PR opportunity. produced by Salient Clear. But for Armenia, which is conscious of how Consider the life of Komitas; a peaceful and little awareness it has in many other countries, brilliant man with prolific musical ability who major news coverage represents a relatively rare witnessed the Armenian Genocide first hand, opportunity. In 2015, the 100th anniversary of with the result of causing him an eventual the Armenian genocide, more foreign media breakdown and hospitalization in France. than usual will telli stories about Armenia. That The aim of this is why the country has set a strict timeline for film is to let the a rebranding project that will seek to attract world see and more investment and tourists to its borders – learn about starting in 2015, when it will be the focus of Komitas, his beau - more attention. And it is bringing a Canadian tiful life and his advertising agency on board to help. tragedy, that the Last week, the Toronto-based Cundari Group gifted and inno - announced that, in partnership with New York cent are not agency GK Brand, it has won the contract for spared atrocities. Armenia’s brand development project. The film is also USC Students Syuzanna Petrosyan (center) and Greg Irwin (right) shared the top The contract is with the National intended as a prize at this year’s Student Voices Short Film Contest sponsored by USC Shoah Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia, a pub - reminder to not Foundation. Presenting the awards is USC Shoah Foundation Executive Director lic-private partnership between the government Stephen D. Smith. forget the and Armenian business leaders, both within the Komitas Vartabed Armenian country and abroad. Genocide of 1915- A team from Cundari will be travelling to 1923 and the Armenia in a couple of weeks to begin the pro - ensuing consequences of genocide that haunt USC Student of Armenian cess of developing the country’s brand strategy. the world today. It’s not unfamiliar territory: Cundari helped to Special preview screenings, ahead of the gen - Descent Shares Top Prize in create a new brand strategy for Washington, eral worldwide release of the film, have been DC, in 2008, and has done similar projects for scheduled for the month of April. the city of Calgary, Ontario’s Niagara region, •April 4 - screening at the Millersville Film Competition and Yonkers, NY, among others. Armenia is the University’s 33rd Conference on the Holocaust farthest-flung project it has yet tackled. and Genocide (see LOS ANGELES — A student from the University of Southern California (USC) who “We understand that place branding is very http://www.millersville.edu/holocon/ for describes herself as a descendant of survivors of the Armenian Genocide shared the different from product or service branding,” more details) top prize at this year’s Student Voices Short Film Contest sponsored by USC Shoah said Kelly Frances, Cundari’s senior vice presi - •April 12 - screening in Chicago that is spon - Foundation - The Institute for Visual Learning and Education. dent of sales and marketing. “You really have to sored by the Chicago Armenian Community. Syuzanna Petrosyan and fellow student Greg Irwin won the award March 6 for take in the perspective not just of residents of •April 21 - screening in Fresno under the their short film, “Play for your Life,” which the place, but of businesses, potential visitors, sponsorship of the Holy Trinity Armenian looks at the orchestras organized by the potential investors. You have to look at the Church of Fresno Nazis in German concentration camps dur - brand from many different vantage points.” •April 22 - screening at San Diego State ing World War II. The team will be designing a new logo for University (see Petrosyan said the film was inspired by “it is important to Armenia, but the project goes far beyond that. http://religion.sdsu.edu/docs/komitas.pdf and Alice Herz-Somner, a pianist who, until her It will be developing a strategy to attract foreign http://religion.sdsu.edu/events.htm for more death at 110 in February, was the oldest liv - understand not investment and also to transform the country’s details). ing Holocaust survivor. Music factors heavi - growing tourism industry. Additional details about the April screenings ly in Herz-Somner’s testimony in the Shoah only the big picture At the moment, the vast majority of tourists and the film, including a trailer, can be found Foundation’s Visual History Archive, which come from the Armenian Diaspora — a welcome on the film’s website at contains nearly 52,000 recorded testimonies segment to be sure, but also one that tends to www.KomitasTheMovie.com of survivors and other witnesses of the and history of stay with family and not to spend as much dur - Holocaust and other genocides. ing their visit. In the first quarter of 2013, for In April 2010, the institute signed a his - genocides, but also example, only about 16 percent of tourists visit - toric agreement with the Armenian Film ing Armenia stayed in hotels or other parts of Foundation and the late filmmaker Dr. J. to observe the the “lodging industry” while the rest stayed with Armenian Museum Hosts Michael Hagopian to incorporate 400 testi - friends or relatives, or in rented apartments. monies of survivors of the Armenian A key goal will be an advertising campaign to Composer Boyadjian Genocide. The interviews, which are set to smaller and per - attract more lucrative, foreign tourists. The key tar - come out in April 2015, will be used for edu - get markets will be Russia, Georgia and Iran, which WATERTOWN — The Armenian cational purposes through the Visual sonal stories of are all nearby. It will also be doing some promotion Museum of America presents Grammy- History Archive, where they will be stored in in urban centers in Germany and France. nominated composer Hayg Boyadjian perpetuity. survivor ’s of the But it will have to combat low brand aware - who will make a presentation on Sunday, Petrosyan said her interest in entering ness. In an interview with a local news agency March 23, at 2 p.m., in the Contemporary Student Voices comes from her own last month, the chief executive officer of the Art Gallery. Armenian background and interest in explor - biggest crimes in National Competitiveness Foundation high - Boyadjian will discuss the general ing the various dimensions of genocides. As lighted this challenge. development of Armenian classical music a public diplomacy master’s candidate, she history.” “When we speak of Armenia, the first things as well as the development of his own said, “it is important to understand not only –Syuzanna Petrosyan that come to mind are Christianity, Armenian music. He will play the piano as part of the big picture and history of genocides, but genocide, churches, Armenian apricot[s],” the lecture. An integral part of his talk also to observe the smaller and personal stories of survivor’s of the biggest crimes Arman Khachaturyan told the Mediamax news will be to demonstrate how historical in history.” agency. “… Our goal is to present Armenia not Armenian musical idioms influenced past The film was the second movie featuring Herz-Somner to win an award in one only to people who have some idea of our coun - and present composers. Boyadjian will week. She is also the subject of the Academy Award-winning documentary, “The try but particularly, to those people who have also discuss the influences that western Lady in Number 6: Music Saved my Life.” no idea at all.” music had on Armenian composers, espe - Student Voices is a chance for all USC graduate and undergraduate students, Because it is not a beach destination, it will cially after the collapse of the Soviet regardless of major, to create short films that incorporate survivor’s testimony from be advertising itself to tourists who are inter - Union. the Visual History Archive. ested in culture and history. A project is under Tickets are $7 for non-members, $3 for Shirin Raban won the Viewer’s Choice Award for her film, “There is No Other way, for example, to revitalize the more than seniors and students and free for mem - Way.” Rebecca Baugh received an honorable mention for “Love, Noemi.” 1,000-year-old Tatev monastery. The ad agen - bers and children under 12. cies will now be charged with creating a com - munications plan by the time Armenia is in the public eye next year. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING Anahid Literary Awards Celebration At Columbia University

TEKEYANTTEKEYAN CULTURALCULTUTURAL ASSOCIATIONASSOCIIATION OOFF GGREATERREATER NNYY NEW YORK — Five authors will be honored emerging Armenian-American writers. The at the Anahid Literary Awards celebration on prize is given by the Armenian Center at Friday, April 4, at Columbia University. Columbia University and comes with an award Hosted by the Armenian Center at Columbia of $5,000. Since its founding, there have been University, recipients Arthur Nercessian, more than a (Chinese Take-Out) ; Patricia Saraffian Ward, dozen winners (The Bullet Collection) , Michael Zadoorian, in poetry, fic - (Second Hand) , Aris Janigian, (Blood-Vine) and tion, playwrit - Lydia Peele ing, and screen - (Reasons For and writing, includ - Advantages of ing Leslie Breathing) will be Ayvasian, Peter honored for their Balakian, Eric significant contribu - Bogosian, tions to Armenian Diana Der culture and Hovanessian, American literature. Atom Egoyan “The Anahid and Nancy Aris Janigian Award has been an Kricorian. 90 MiMinutenute DDocumentaryocumentarryy PrPresentedesented BByy occasion for the The celebra - FOFOUR-TIMEUR-TIME REGIONALREGIONAL EEMMY®MMY® AAWARDWARD WWINNERINNER Armenian communi - tion will be BAREDARED MMARONIANARONIAAN ty to be self-aware, to take note of the works of held at 6:30 Lydia Peelle literature that are being written now, to cele - p.m. at Faculty Sunday,Sundday, AprilApril 6th, 20142014 brate those works, and to affirm the horizons House, Presidential Rooms 2 and 3, located at 2:00pm2:00pmp they open up for each writer and for the broad - 64 Morningside Drive (at 116th Street) on TCA CenterCenter er Armenian community and culture,” said Dr. Columbia University’s campus. A reception with 5600 SySylvanlvan AvenueAvenue Peter Balakian, who will serve as the evening’s wine and hors d’oeuvres will follow the pro - EnglewoodEnglewwood Cliffs,Clifffffss, NJ 076327632 master of ceremonies. gram. This event is free and open to the public. The Anahid Award was founded in 1988 by an anonymous donor who wanted to honor — Taleen Babayan $10 admissionadmission feefee shouldshould bebe sentsent toto TCATCA byby AAprilpril 2nd. SpacSpacep e isis llimited.imited. NNo tticketsickets wiwillll be solsoldold at tthehe doordoor.. Foorr iinformation,nformation, pleaseplease callcall HildaHilda aatt ((201)201) 405-1702405-1702

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SearchSearch “OrphansOrphans ofof thethe GeGenocidenocide” oonn YouTubeYouTube forffoor tratrailerailer

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SP² SP YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The first time I 6WHLQZD\ 3LDQR *DOOHU\ saw the handmade jewels by designer Yeva Adalyan was at the Cafesjian Centre here. These  ( 0DSOH 5RDG jewels were unique; the combination of the met - &RPPHUFH 7RZQVKLS als, stones and glass was so harmonically designed that it was impossible not to notice SHUVRQ them and not to admire them. Each of them is %URXJKW WR \RX E\ WKH a small masterpiece of art with unique solu - tions and consonant colors. One cannot call 0HWUR 'HWURLW 7HNH\DQ &XOWXUDO $VVRFLDWLRQ them just jewels. As Adalyan states, they are the 0HHW WKH $UWLVW 5HFHSWLRQ WR IROORZ FRQFHUW creating of her love and warmth. Then I found Adalyan online and got in touch with her via facebook. Thus I discovered the 7KLV SURJUDP GHGLFDWHG WR kind of an individual, who is not afraid of nov - 0UV 0DUJDUHW %HQLDQ elties and difficulties and who celebrates solely triumphs in all situations. Her life looks like a Hollywood story and the 5693 WR 'LDQD $OH[DQLDQ -- designer, who is very popular in the United /HVOLH %DOLDQ -- P 1RUD $]DGLDQ -- States, confesses that she will not be able to record any achievement in her life without her Yeva Adalyan dream, dedication and diligence. Adalyan was born in Yerevan, Armenia and has been living in Los Angeles since 1992. She and complex shapes in a brave modern state - works and creates in a few genres, including ment. jewelry, poetry, graphic, interior and floral Designer and owner of YevArts, Adalyan dis - The Armenian Mirror-Spectator design. Designed and created by Yeva Adalyan, covered her passion for making jewelry in 2002, the unique designs have many influences fusing and hasn’t stopped creating since. YevArts spe - Now in its 82nd year of publication industrial and ethnic, bold and dainty, simple cializes in handmade custom jewelry. 12 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Scholar Captures Tragedy, Miracle of Aurora Mardiganian’s Life Story

MARDIGANIAN, from page 1 Nikolayevich, a cousin of Tsar paranoia about Turkish soldiers finding her. The Introducing Demoyan was the director of the Nicholas II of Russia. She made reclusive Mardiganian only allowed one woman Armenian Cultural Foundation, Dr. Ara her way to Kars, Gumri and Tbilisi to deliver food to her through her window. When Ghazarians. He said in his opening remarks, “We (Tiflis, back then), where she she died in 1994, at age 93, no one claimed her are a nation resurrected on the shoulders of stayed at Hovhanness body and she was buried in a mass grave, for - orphaned grandparents.” He said Mardiganian Toumanyan’s house. From there, gotten by all and without even a headstone. was a “young woman of exceptional courage she went to the Russian capital, St. The rapt audience in Arlington was also treat - who awakened humanity on these shores.” Her Petersburg, in October 1917, when ed to a few minutes of an interview of autobiography, he added, was one of the first the Russian Revolution was under - Mardiganian in 1984 by Dr. Rouben Adalian, as books on the Armenian Genocide. way. As Demoyan said, she feared part of the Zoryan Institute’s Oral History Mardiganian has become a focal point for for her life. She said, “I survived Project. Neither was apparently aware that the Demoyan, who said he feels that not only is she these killings and now we are in camera was on. Speaking with clarity and charm, remarkable on her own, but that she can serve as this big capital where people are Mardiganian replied to questions on why she a microcosm of the Armenian experience. killing each other.” changed her name from Mardigian to Now, the Armenian Genocide Museum- She went from Russia to Norway Mardiganian (better pronounced in the US and Institute is home to the largest collection of and then to the US, with help in protecting relatives in Turkey). Mardiganian materials in the world. the latter part of the journey from Demoyan explained that many in the Mardiganian’s story, as Demoyan explained, is the Near East Foundation. Armenian community turned their backs on her the stuff of Greek tragedy. Aurora Mardiganian While in the US, in 1918, her possibly because of the “shameful” part of the was born Arshaluys Mardigian in Chmshgatsak, book, Ravished Armenia; the story, namely rape and trafficking, pain that they in 1901. The town has deep Armenian roots, Story of Aurora Mardiganian, the wanted forgotten and unmentioned. Another Demoyan said, going back to the Urartian times. Christian Girl, Who Survived the possible explanation was that the hero was in In 1915, her family was slaughtered by Ottoman Great Massacres, was published, fact a heroine, a young girl. with eventual sales of half a million Demoyan is currently compiling further new copies. material on Mardiganian in the US. He plans to At the same time, William Selig, publish a book on her as well as put together a a Chicago native, moved to Los traveling exhibit in time for the Genocide cen - Angeles to make movies, becoming tennial. He also said that as a member of the Original Cover of in the process the founder of mod - Ravished Armenia Yerevan Council of Elders, he is going to petition ern Hollywood. He became inter - the city to have a street named for her and ested in Mardiganian’s story, but, as Demoyan garbage by chance. He sent it to Armenia, where postage stamps to commemorate her life. said, “the problem was who would star as he eventually repatriated from the US. He noted proudly that this year the Turkish Aurora.” The film, like the book, was a hit from coast to Selig decided that the real heroine should star coast. It was shown in cities big and small, and in the movie, based on the book and titled the story of the film and it’s tragic and beautiful “Auction of Souls.” The film was later called star, covered in all the major papers in the US, as “Ravished Armenia.” Thus, Demoyan explained, well as smaller outlets in places as far flung as “Aurora was the star and consultant for cos - Honolulu and Alaska. The film was also a hit in tumes and story.” Canada, Cuba, Australia and Europe. Here, in Just 19 by this point, she showed evidence of Boston, the film was shown at Symphony Hall Dr. Hayk Demoyan her mental anguish by screaming in fear when and the opening was attended by Harvard seeing actors in Turkish costumes, forgetting she University President Charles Eliot. In London, was on a movie set. After all, she had gone the film was shown at Albert Hall. forces, as were most other Armenians in the through so much trauma not too long ago, and The film’s producers tried to make town and elsewhere in Western Armenia. She she was forced to reenact going through the Mardiganian into a real Hollywood star, but she and many other young women there were round - crimes on film. refused to do other films. ed up for a forced march toward Diyarbakir. Mardiganian’s suffering seemed not to have an In the early 1930s, the book and the film just According to her story, the Turkish soldiers end. During the making of the movie she suf - dropped off the public’s radar. Demoyan said decided to nail the 17 girls in the group to cross - fered from broken bones and a case of the that the sudden and complete silencing of the es but they miscounted and only constructed 16 Spanish Flu. Still, she soldiered on through the film could be in part the result of an agreement crosses; she was the lucky one who was not cru - pain and fever, feeling duty bound to get the between Hollywood and the Nazis in Germany, cified. story of the Armenians out. which saw that movies were not anti-German or She endured much, being sold into a harem as Demoyan showed a one-minute snippet of the anti-Nazi. Mardiganian had written about being a teen, for 85 cents. She was plucky, however, movie featuring Ambassador Henry Morgenthau, raped by a roving gang of German soldiers in Aurora Mardiganian’s smile did not let on about and managed to escape, eventually meeting up the US ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, play - Turkey before being sold into a harem. her tragic past. with Russian soldiers who took her to ing himself, who in the scene was arguing with Mardiganian eventually married and had a son, Armenians in Erzingan. There, she was pressed the Sultan. No intact copy of the one hour and but happiness eluded her. She never found her for the names of other Armenian girls in captivi - 20 minute film has survived. Only an 18-minute brother who had immigrated to the US before version of the book was published after he gave ty. Eventually, she made her way to Erzurum and portion remains, thanks to the foresight of the Genocide and her own son abandoned her. the English version to a visiting Turkish journal - met up with General Antranik and Nikolai Yervant Setian, who found the reel in the The waning years of her life were dominated by ist. “This is a part of Turkish history,” he said. Copies of her book were sold at the ACF func - tion, with all proceeds donated to the Syrian- Armenian Relief. Demoyan, barely able to contain his admira - tion, said that Mardiganian would be judged a Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2014 winner by history. “Her mission was to tell the story of the Armenian Genocide worldwide. This was a hero, a winner. This one young lady proved Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor what we can do for our nation.” a Teacher’ program has raised over $563,000 and reached out to 4,440 teachers and school workers in Armenia and Karabagh.

£

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

Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2014 Mail your check with this form to: Entertainment Fridays TCA Sponsor a Teacher 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 and Saturdays

Your donation is Tax Deductible. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING

! CC AA LLEENNDDAARR ChefsChefs PartyParty forfor OurOur Park!Park! BenefitBenefit fforor thethe OnOngoinggoing CCareare ooff ththee MASSACHUSETTS ArmenianArmenian HHeritageeritage Park,Park, GrGreenwayeenway MARCH 23 — Publication party, Armenian International Boston Chefs presentpresent ssignatureignature Women’s Association celebrates release of two books by Zabel Yessayan newly translated into English: The Gardens of Silihdar didishesshes inspiredinspired bbyy pparents,arents, mentorsmentors and My Soul in Exile and Other Writings . 2 p.m. Armenian grgrandparentsandparents foforr yyouou to eenjoy!njoy! Cultural Foundation, Arlington. Open to the public, free of charge. For info, [email protected] or 617-926-0171. Ana Sortun, Oleana,Oleana, Sofra,Sofra, SaSarmarma MARCH 29 — Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Armenian Independent Andrew Hebert, TTraderade Broadcasting of Boston presents a Musical Evening featur - ing Janet Khalarian, with the participation of the Hamazkayin Andrew Yeo, Nathan Kibarian Erebuni Dance Ensemble, St. James Armenian Church, Mosesian TheThe RRitz-Carltonitz-Carlton Cultural Hall, 465 Mount Auburn St., Watertown. Donation $20. Brian Dandro, ArtBar,RoyalArtBar,Royal SSonestaonesta For tickets, call (617) 926-6268 or Meri Memirjian at (781) 273- Brian Poe, Poe'sPoe's KiKitchen,tchen, TiTipp TaTapp 2770. APRIL 7 — St. James Men’s Club, Monday, Speaker Jacqueline RRoom,oom, Estelle'sEstelle's Karaaslanian, executive director of Luys Educational Dante de Magistris, DanteDante Foundation, speaking on “Luys Empowers Transformation in il CCasaleasale Armenia.” Vosbov Kheyma & Imam Bayeldi Dinner. Social Hour Gerard Tice, PParker’s,arker’s, OmniOmni PParkerarker (mezza) 6:15 p.m. Dinner 7 p.m. $14 per person, St. James Jeffrey P. Fournier, 51 LiLincolnncoln Armenian Church, Charles Mosesian Cultural & Youth Center - Keljik Hall, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown. Ladies welcome. Renowned attorney Mark Geragos will WabanWaban KitchenKitchen APRIL 10 — A Place Far Away – Book Talk with Author Vahan be the featured speaker at the annual Jody Adams, RRialto,ialto, TTraderade Zanoyan, 7:30 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, commemoration of the Armenian Julia Brant, NNorthorth 226,6, MillenniumMillennium Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle Street, Cambridge. Genocide, which will take place at the BostonianBostonian The Greater Boston area community is invited to a compelling Massachusetts State House, on April 11, book talk with Vahan Zanoyan on his new novel, A Place Far Seta Dakessian, Seta'sSeta's beginning at 10:30 a.m. Architect Donald Away, a powerful portrayal of the heart-breaking realities of Vicki Lee Boyajian, Jason Reed human trafficking in Armenia. Reception to follow talk. Signed Tellalian will receive a proclamation. A ViVickicki Lee'sLee's books will be available for purchase that evening. All proceeds reception will follow the program in the WITHITH Mark E. Mooradian from the sale of the book are being donated to organizations House Chamber. Buses, provided by the MEMMEM TeaTea Imports,Imports, KKarnakarnak FFarmsarms devoted to protecting children and fighting human trafficking. Knights of Vartan, will leave from St. For further info, contact the church office, 617.354.0632, or Stephen’s an St. James Churches in Bob Lobel, MasterMaster ooff CCeremonieseremonies email [email protected]. Watertown. The event is free and open to APRIL 11 — Beginning at 10:30 a.m., for the annual com- the public. Wednesday, May 21, 2014 memoration of the Armenian Genocide, which will take place at the Massachusetts State House, at the House Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston Chamber. Keynote speaker will be attorney Mark Geragos. A joint House and Senate resolution will be presented to architect MichaelMichael Medeiros,Medeiros, GeneralGeneral MManageranager Donald Tellalian, who designed the Armenian Heritage Park in JJimim AAnello,nello, DirectorDirector ofof CCateringatering Boston. In addition, Anahis Kechejian will help lead young peo - MAY 21 — Chefs Party for Our Park! Benefit for the Armenian ple remembering their ancestors who are genocide victims, as Heritage Park’s Ongoing Care., Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Royal RSVP part of Stand up for Your Survivor. Also, children from St. Sonesta Hotel Boston, Cambridge. Celebrate with Boston’s Top Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School and the Armenian Chefs presenting signature dishes inspired by parents, grand - AdvanceAdvance ReservationsReservations required.required. Sisters’ Academy will sing America the Beautiful and the parents or mentors for you to taste while you mix, mingle and Online:Online: ArmenianHeritagePark.orgArmenianHeritagePark.org enjoy. and mingle. Advanced Reservations required. To receive h Armenian National Anthem. The program will end by noon, fol - By mmail:ail: ForFor SponsorSponsor FForm,orm, ememailail lowed by a catered reception in the Great Hall. Complimentary the einvite, email [email protected] [email protected]@armenianheritagepark.org bus service, provided by the Knights of Vartan, will be available from the St. Stephen’s and the St. James Churches for the round MICHIGAN or cacallll 617617 8803.878503.8785 trip transportation. This is a free event and open to everyone. For more information, contact Lalig Musserian at 617-319-2651 MARCH 29 — Young Turkish-Armenian pianist Artun or [email protected] Miskciyan will per form at 7 p.m., Steinway Piano Gallery, GrGratefulateful aappreciationppreciation ttoo tthehe RoRoyalyal SSonestaonesta APRIL 27 — Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee 2700 E. Maple Road, Commerce Township. The program will HoHoteltel andand tthehe ChChefsefs fforor hhostingosting thethe BenefitBenefit of Merrimack Valley observance, 3 pm, North Andover High include pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Bartok and School, 430 Osgood St., Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble per - Khachaturian. The concert is sponsored by the Metro Detroit forming; joint requiem service by MV Armenian churches; recep - Tekeyan Cultural Association and dedicated to Margaret Benian. tion to follow; complimentary admission. RSVP Diana Alexanian 248-334-3636 Leslie Balian 248-303-4690 MAY 10 — Unveiling of a new genocide memorial by Lowell Nora Azadian 248-303-7171. Tickets are $15 per person.A City Hall, sponsored by the Armenian Genocide Monument reception will follow the concert. Committee of Merrimack Valley; 10 a.m., downtown proces - sion, followed by program at City Hall and reception in St. Ann’s NEW YORK Church Hall at noon. Musical interlude by soloist Sevan Dulgarian; Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, MC. MARCH 31 — AGBU Ararat and Armenian Network of MAY 10 — Third Annual Benefit Dance with ALL proceeds America, Inc.-Greater New York Region & Hamazkayin being donated to the following Armenian Charities: Mrgashen Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of NY pre- Village School, Akhourian Mother and Child Clinic and sent “Bolis” Screening and Conversation with Eric Nazarian, ArmenianArmenian HeritageHeritage ParkPark on thethe GreenwayGreenway Armenians in Syria. 7 p.m. to Midnight, Armenian Church of Our 7 p.m., AGBU Central Office, 55 E 59th Street, 7th Floor, New York. Free admission and reception to follow. To BoBoston.ston. MaMassachusettsssachusetts Saviour Cultural Center, 34 Boynton St., Worcester. Der Mugrditchian Ensemble to perform. Donation, $30 ($25 RSVP, please email your full name to [email protected] or call

Students), music, mezza, cash bar, raffle, surprises. AGBU 212-319-6383 x140

New Journal Announcement: Genocide Studies International Nuba Mountains crisis — and on the politics of prevention or the lack thereof. TORONTO — The editors of Genocide academia and civil society, as well as policy-mak - This peer-reviewed journal is interdisciplinary The second issue will be a general issue on all Studies International (GSI) are pleased to ers, GSI is a journal devoted to innovative and comparative in nature. It welcomes submis - aspects of the phenomenon of genocide, and is announce the relaunching of the journal, con - research, analysis and information. GSI is a forum sions on individual case studies, thematic scheduled to appear in September. tinuing the publishing efforts of the for the academic study and understanding of the approaches, and policy analyses that relate to The third issue, due out in March 2015, will be International Institute for Genocide and phenomena of genocide and the gross violation of the history, causes, impact, aftermath, and all a special issue on the Ottoman Genocide of Human Rights Studies (A Division of the human rights and various approaches to prevent - other aspects of genocide. Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks. April 2015 will Zoryan Institute) (IIGHRS) and the University ing them. It strives to raise awareness of the neces - The editors are Maureen Hiebert, Herbert Hirsch, mark the 100th anniversary of what is generally of Toronto Press since 2006. GSI is the official sity of genocide prevention and the promotion of Roger W. Smith and Henry Theriault. GSI is avail - considered the start of this genocidal process. journal of the IIGHRS. universal human rights. It serves as a critical voice abe online in March and in print in April. The fourth issue, to appear in September In keeping with the objectives of the IIGHRS to for analyzing governmental and supra-governmen - The first issue will deal with “The Failure of 2015, will be a special issue on “The Political raise awareness by being a bridge between tal efforts in the prevention of genocide. Prevention,” focusing on Sudan — Darfur, the Economy of Genocide.” 14 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

THE ARMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror Crimean Crisis Creates Political Maze Spectator for Armenians adopted a resolution calling on Armenians to participate in the ref - By Edmond Y. Azadian erendum and voting in favor of the peninsula joining Russia. The Council’s chairman, Vagharshak Melkonian, indicated that the new Crimean constitution will guarantee the Crimean Tatars 20 per - EstabElsisthabedlis1h9e3d2 1932 The facts are already well known about the crisis in Crimea, cent quota in the governing bodies of the peninsula and has con - An AADnL APDuLb liPcuatbiloicn ation whose population just voted in a referendum with 96.6 percent tinued to state that, “We Armenians, Bulgarians, Greeks and approval to join the Russian Federation. Germans have united under one association and we demand that For world leaders, the situation is rather simple, political facts they be guided by the same principles also with respect to us, if the being perceived in black and white. For the West — and especially EDITOR said principle is applied for the Crimean Tatars.” Alin K. Gregorian the US — it was a violation of international law. For Moscow and As we can see, the Crimean crisis reflects in a different and some - for the Russian residents of Crimea, it was a legitimate expression times contradictory way on Armenians, who are scattered in dif -

ASSISTANT EDITOR of people’s right to self-determination. ferent parts of the former Soviet Union. This is a microcosm of the Gabriella Gage But for the Republic of Armenia and the Armenian residents of nature of the Armenian people, who because of a variety of the former Soviet territories, a political maze of sympathies and assaults as well as a full-scale genocide, have become scattered ASSOCIATE EDITOR interests is being engendered by these new developments. across the world. Aram Arkun Armenians have been living in Ukraine since the Middle Ages The major question for us remains how this referendum will ART DIRECTOR and their ranks have been replenished with recent emigration from impact on the destiny of the people of Karabagh. Marc Mgrditchian the homeland. Many oligarchs and business leaders have emerged Like the other unrecognized republics of South Ossetia and in the Ukrainian-Armenian community, generously supporting Abkhazia, the Foreign Ministry of Karabagh has released a com - many projects in Armenia. muniqué which “considers the referendum held on March 16 in SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: By necessity, Ukrainian-Armenians will support the new govern - the Autonomous Republic of Crimea as yet another manifesta - Edmond Azadian ment in Kiev, while the Union of Armenians in Russia has come up tion of the realization of the right of people to self-determina - with a declaration sympathizing with Moscow’s strong-arm tactics tion … as it is enshrined in the UN Charter and a number of fun - CONTRIBUTORS: in Ukraine and Crimea. damental international documents, is a key principle of inter - Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiune Russian Armenians have been equally supportive of the national law.” Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. Armenian Republic in larger measures than is even known in the Since the inviolability of the borders in the former Soviet bloc Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der diaspora. was broken in Kosovo and — with a counter measure — continues Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork The government in Armenia has been treading more cautiously today in Crimea, political observers are waiting to see what actions Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop about the developments in the region. Although a strategic part - Moscow may resort to next in Trans-Dniester and Karabagh. Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian ner to Moscow, Yerevan has been reluctant to refuse recognizing At this point, the destiny of Karabagh hinges on two main fac - the new government in Kiev and has not yet rushed to embrace the tors: CORRESPONDENTS: result of the vote in Crimea. • Thus far, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Armenians have been living in Crimea since the eighth century Europe (OSCE) co-chairmanship has been consistent in maintain - Boston - Nancy Kalajian AD and have enjoyed a prosperous cultural life in the peninsula, ing the principle of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity versus Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian which has suffered two major wars between tsarist Russia and the Karabagh people’s right to self-determination, making a solution Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach Ottoman Empire. impossible. Therefore, if the Crimean crisis undermines the con - Contributing Photographers: There were almost half a million Tatars in Crimea, left over from sensus within OSCE, Moscow may resort to unilateral action. Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair the Mongol invasions of Genghis Khan who were later decimated • Crimean Tatars have received assurances from Turkey’s Hovsepian when in 1941 Stalin deported 200,000 of them to Central Asia, Foreign Minister Ahmed Davutoglu that their rights will be guar - accusing them of collaborating with the Nazis. That move changed anteed. The Tatars have vocally opposed to Crimea joining Russia. the ethnic balance in Crimea, whose 2-million population is 53 per - They have also appealed to Ilham Aliyev for support. Should The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published cent Russian. The Tatars now constitute only 12 percent of the Azerbaijan engage in any policy contravening Moscow’s interests weekly, except two weeks in July, by: population, although the new constitution allows them 20-percent in the peninsula, Putin may use his options in Karabagh. Baikar Association, Inc. participation in government institutions. Thus far, the political upheaval has not extended its ramifica - By contrast, Armenians in Crimea constitute only .5 percent of tions to the peripheral issues which affect Armenia and Karabagh; 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Telephone: 617-924-4420 the total population, but traditionally, they have been a vocal however, it has already created a political maze which can move in minority. The Crimean Armenian community National Council any unpredictable direction. FAX: 617-924-2887 www.mir ror spectator.com E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com For advertising: [email protected] What Does the New Global Forest Watch Website show for Armenia?

SUBSCRIPTION RATES : seen a loss of approximately 813 hectares of industrial logging, unsustainable livestock By Jason Sohigian forest over this 12-year timeframe. For refer - grazing and the use of wood for cooking and ence, a hectare is 2.47 acres or an area the size heating fuel. Of course we recognize that peo - U.S.A. $80 a year of a soccer field. ple in rural areas rely on wood. At the same Last month’s launch of the Global Forest Armenia Tree Project (ATP) has been plant - time forests are a renewable resource when Canada $125 a year Watch (www.globalforestwatch.org) website ing in urban areas and towns since 1994 and they are sustainably managed and not overex - was big news. Google, World Resources launched its forestry program in 2004. ATP ploited. In addition to planting there are other Other Countries $190 a year Institute and a few dozen other partners are has planted a total of 4,455,869 trees to date strategies that may be deployed in order to part of the effort. The site allows users to mon - at more than 925 sites in all regions of reduce the pressure on forests. These include itor deforestation in “near real time.” The big Armenia. Most of our forestry has been subsidizing the cost of natural gas for house - © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator takeaway: global tree cover loss far exceeds focused around 30 sites in Northern Armenia. holds, enforcing a ban on wood exports and Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA tree-cover gain. Data shows that the world lost Our forestry department has planted approxi - reducing tax on imported wood. and additional mailing offices. 2,300,000 square kilometers of tree cover mately 3,500,000 tree seedlings over an area of In general, we are in favor of initiatives like ISSN 0004-234X between 2000 and 2012, or the equivalent of 850 hectares. GFW that make the information about our losing 50 soccer fields’ worth of forests every However, our seedlings have not even forests transparent and publicly accessible. In POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The minute of every day for the past 13 years. By formed into forests with a canopy that would the end we hope this draws attention to the Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472 contrast, only 800,000 square kilometers have be recognized by satellite data at this resolu - issue of deforestation in Armenia and globally regrown, been planted or restored during the tion. There is no question we are losing forest and that it shows the importance of investing Other than the editorial, views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily same period. cover and ATP is trying to turn the tide along resources in protecting and restoring this reflect the policies of the publisher. We welcome initiatives like GFW, which use with other partners. It’s also worth noting that important part of our natural infrastructure. cutting-edge technology to make forestry data Armenia’s Hayantar forestry department has Clearly there is a lot left to be done in available to the public. This kind of trans - been planting during this timeframe. Armenia to reverse deforestation. One thing parency is essential to shine a spotlight on for - There have been other efforts to monitor for - we know is that sustainable management of est loss and to show areas where natural regen - est cover in Armenia and the general conclu - our natural resources like forests will be more eration or reforestation has been successful. sion was that that there has been a net gain in cost-effective than depleting the reserves and This information empowers citizens and is forest cover, consistent with that we have seen trying to fund environmental restoration pro - even valued by corporations that want to use in other parts of Europe. However some grams. Particularly when some environmental Copying for other than personal use or sustainably-harvested wood. experts in the environmental community have impacts — like desertification caused by defor - internal reference is prohibited without express permission of the copyright Now, what does the site show for Armenia? pointed out that the regrowth of forest has estation—are irreversible. owner. Address requests for reprints or GFW shows that there was forest loss in been a lower quality “coppice” tree, which is (Jason Sohigian is deputy director of the back issues to: Armenia over an area of 2,089 hectares and a almost like a shrub that has grown out of tree Armenia Tree Project. He has a master’s gain of 1,276 over the period of 2000 to 2011. stumps. Setting the statistics aside, there is a degree in Sustainability and Environmental Baikar Association, Inc. It’s interesting to note that the data relies on consensus that Armenia needs to curb forest Management from Harvard. His research on 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Landsat satellite imagery which has become loss and that reforestation should be acceler - Payments for Environmental Services was an accepted source to measure forest cover ated in order to restore our historic tree cover. adapted for a talk at TEDx Yerevan on globally. According to this data, Armenia has Some of the drivers of forest loss have been “Redefining Our Economic Systems.”) S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

Turkey to topple President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The which was Syrian territory under the French mandate. In al-Qaeda fighters, who have been clashing with other anti- 1939, Alexandretta was completely severed from Syria and Assad factions in the region where the Ottoman tomb is officially ceded to Turkey as the Hatay Province. After its located, are the ones destroying graves, since radical independence from France in 1946, the Syrian government Islamists believe that the veneration of tombs is idolatrous. acknowledged Turkish sovereignty over the land where My Turn Turkey considers the plot of land in Syria where Suleyman Shah’s grave is located, but never accepted the Suleyman Shah’s grave is situated to be sovereign Turkish give-away of Alexandretta to Turkey. By Harut Sassounian territory based on the 1921 Treaty of Ankara signed In a press conference held in Van last Friday, Foreign between Turkey and France, which was occupying Syria at Minister Davutoglu warned that any attack on the that time. According to that agreement, Turkey had the Ottoman-era tomb in Syria “from the [Syrian] regime, radi - Turkey’s Hypocritical Threat right to station guards and hoist its flag at that site. Ever cal groups or anyone else would be subject to retaliation Against Syria over Ancient Grave since 1921, two-dozen Turkish soldiers have been guarding from Turkey. In defending its sovereign territory, Turkey the tomb around the clock. will take all necessary measures without any hesitation…. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu’s threat to Article 9 of the Ankara Treaty allocated to Turkey At the present time, there is no question of any intrusion retaliate against anyone in Syria who dares to damage the around 80,000 square feet of Syrian territory, 60 miles targeting our territory [the tomb in Syria] and our soldiers, tomb of Suleyman Shah, grandfather of Osman I, founder south of the Syrian-Turkish border. When the area around but we stand ready to take whatever steps needed in the of the Ottoman Empire, is the latest manifestation of the the tomb was flooded in 1974 by the newly-built Lake event of a threat. The Turkish public need have no doubt Turkish government’s utter hypocrisy. Assad, the grave was moved to a new location, 20 miles in this regard.” Meanwhile, officials from the Turkish Here is a country that has committed genocide against mil - from the Turkish frontier. Despite the ongoing hostilities in Foreign Ministry, General Staff, and National Intelligence lions of its Christian subjects (Armenians, Assyrians and Syria, Turkey has continued to maintain a contingent of its Organization (MIT) met on March 13 to discuss the securi - Greeks), confiscated their possessions, occupied their lands, soldiers at the tomb. ty of the Shah’s grave. Although Davutoglu did not speci - destroyed thousands of churches, cemeteries and cultural In return for giving Turkey territorial rights over this fy what measures Turkey would take, the Turkish media monuments and yet has the audacity to warn Syrians before ancient site, France obtained several economic concessions, speculated that it might send additional troops to guard any damage is done to an ancient Ottoman grave! including the right to have French companies manage the their revered site. While the tomb of every human being must be protected railroad traffic in parts of Turkey and exploit iron, chrome In my view, Davutoglu’s threat is simply an exercise in and treated with respect, Davutoglu’s threat is a flimsy and silver mines for the next 99 years. This questionable saber-rattling against Syria in order to draw the Turkish excuse to interfere in internal Syrian affairs. Ironically, trade-off may not be legal under international law, since a public’s attention away from Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Suleyman Shah’s grave is located in an area not controlled colonial power is bartering with someone else’s territory! Erdogan’s recent scandalous and possibly criminal behav - by the Syrian government, but by al-Qaeda Jihadists and The 1921 Treaty also established “a special administra - ior, on the eve of the March 30 municipal elections in other rebel groups who have been aided and armed by tive regime” for Turks living in the district of Alexandretta, Turkey.

movement. In the last few weeks, at least ten taped telephone conversations were leaked on the internet involving Erdogan, where Erdogan directs his son to get rid of hundreds Turkish Divisions of millions of cash in Euro and dollars from the family homes, orders several businessmen to pay $100 million each toward buying a media empire that he wants controlled, demands another media owner to fire several journalists, decides how much certain contractors must pay in bribes or properties in return for getting large contracts involving construc - And the Armenian tion of airports and bridges. In the western world, even a hint of attempted bribery or cor - ruption may be sufficient to bring down governments, but in Turkey, Erdogan carries on, dismissing the evidence as plots hatched by his one-time ally and now-mortal-enemy Gulen, as well as other virtual enemies such as “parallel states” within Turkey, and predictably, external enemies such as Israel, US, EU and the “interest lobby” jealous of the fast growth Question of Turkey. Erdogan’s latest move is to try to win back the nationalists who were charged and jailed for attempting to topple his own government; as a result, most of the jailed deep state leaders are immediately released this week, including the former army Chief of Staff ike a cell dividing itself into two, then each new cell further dividing itself and other commanders, the intelligence spy and one of the masterminds of the Hrant Dink into two, Turkey keeps being divided. Divisions always existed but assassination, the racist lawyer who hounded Dink for “insulting Turkishness,” the politi - remained mostly suppressed, but now they are emerging. In this article, cian who was charged for stating “the Armenian Genocide is a lie” in Switzerland but the I would like to outline the old and new divisions in Turkey and the divid - European Court of Human rights had recently sided with him in the name of freedom of ed Turks’ perception of us the Armenians. speech, the murderers of a German and two Turkish Protestant missionaries in Malatya, Ever since the founding of the republic in 1923, Turkey was governed several ultra nationalist/racist journalists, and an organized crime leader who arranged by a secular, Kemalist and nationalist ideology, with the single-minded contract killings of anti-nationalists and Kurds. It seems that the stage is set for a poten - objective of creating and maintaining a single-nation state. Regardless of tial settling of accounts. L which party was in power, leftist or rightist, the deep state dominated by While these divisions took place among the Turks of Turkey, the Kurds of Turkey made the armed forces, big business, big state bureaucracy, media and acade - major advances toward their goals of greater autonomy, language rights and self-determi - mia, directed all the affairs behind the scenes. The deep state leaders and their backers nation, a struggle on going since the 1980s first as a guerilla movement and from the emerged as the elite of the society, aptly named as the nationalist White Turks, who basi - 2000s on as an emerging political movement. The imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan cally inherited and further developed a state built on the economic foundations of plun - imposed his will on Erdogan, who conceded to start peace talks with him in exchange for dered and confiscated Armenian and Greek wealth and assets. The masses in Anatolia were a ceasefire. mainly utilized as free bodies for the military elite, as cheap labor for the industrial elite, Even though these four major divisions within Turkey keep fighting and plotting against or remembered only at election time to vote for one another, they come together and close ranks when it comes to the Armenian issue, the political elite. The pious Sunni Moslem past and present. The Turks themselves categorize Armenians into three distinct groups, By Raffi Bedrosyan majority in Anatolia was condescended to by the in a completely misguided manner — the Good, the Bad and the Poor. The small Armenian White Turks and defined by the term “takunyali” community remaining in Turkey is the “Good,” easily controllable, not a threat anymore, or clog wearers. The disappearance of the with neighborly memories of shared dolma or topik. But these Armenians in Turkey are Armenians and Greeks from these lands was fiercely denied. The existence of other ethnic “Good” as long as they don’t demand much about the past or present, like Hrant Dink people in Turkey, such as Kurds, was also continuously denied. “Turkey is only for Turks” dared. The Diaspora is the “Bad, the evil presence in every country poisoning the locals was their motto; accordingly, since Armenians and Greeks were already wiped out, all the against Turks and Turkey, spreading lies about the ‘alleged’ genocide of 1915. Finally, the other ethnic groups were told that they are now Turks, or else. Armenians of Armenia are the “Poor,” who leave their country and come to Turkey to find The supremacy of the White Turks ended in 2003, with the election of Recep Tayyip bread. The Kurds relatively have more empathy toward the Armenians; however, it is more Erdogan and his moderately Islamic party. Despite all attempts of the deep state to topple a case of “the enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Although Ocalan came close to acknowl - him, he outmaneuvered the White Turks, thanks to the religious Sunni Moslem masses of edging the genocide, he has empathy only for the “Good” Armenians in Turkey and he con - Anatolia and the recent arrival of underprivileged masses from Anatolia to the big cities. tinues defining the Diaspora as part of the external lobby threat against both Turks and The provincial and religious Turks quickly secured and strengthened their grip on power. Kurds. While the Kurds acknowledge the sufferings of the Armenians in 1915, they see Influential fundamentalist religious leader Fethullah Gulen, who had had to leave Turkey themselves only as manipulated tools of the Turks and cannot bring themselves to acknowl - during the previous nationalist secular regimes, cooperated with Erdogan and his follow - edge their active role in the Genocide, nor open the subject of returning the vast proper - ers, quickly filled the cadres of bureaucracy, including key posts in the police, security, judi - ties seized from the Armenians, barring a few exceptions. ciary and academia. Based on charges of attempted coup d’etat against the government, Armenians who believe in meaningful dialogue with the peoples of Turkey, now face the hundreds of deep state leaders and elite White Turks in the military, media and academia additional challenge of choosing one or more of these groups at the expense of alienating were arrested and jailed. Although less intolerant toward minorities than the White Turks, the others, and on the eve of the centennial in 2015, the prospect of any productive results the attitude of the new leaders toward the minorities and the Kurds did not change much. becomes dimmer by the day. But dialogue does continue, with the help of various civil soci - Many White Turks started leaving the country. ety organizations, intellectuals, and more significantly, through the facilitation of the new The alliance and cooperation of Erdogan and Gulen ended in late 2013, when Erdogan emerging force of Islamized Armenians of Turkey. Dialogue must and will continue until felt secure enough to discard Gulen, and decided to shut down the numerous supplemen - all four groups in Turkey start to see that all Armenians, whether in Turkey, Diaspora or tary educational facilities controlled by Gulen. As the education system in the state high Armenia, whether good, bad or poor, are all equally impacted by the genocide and equally schools is not sufficient to secure admission to state universities, most parents in Turkey demand acknowledgment and restitution. depended on these facilities for the advancement of their children. These facilities were used as a power base by Gulen, a major source of income as well as recruitment for new followers. Soon after Erdogan announced the intention to close these facilities, state pros - (Raffi Bedrosyan is a civil engineer and concert pianist, living in Toronto, Canada. He has ecutors and police controlled by Gulen revealed uncovering a major corruption scandal donated concert and CD proceedings to infrastructure projects in Armenia and Karabagh, in against four of Erdogan’s ministers, involving hundreds of millions of dollars in bribes, with which he has also participated as an engineer. He helped organize the reconstruction of the all the juicy details of money counting machines and millions stashed in shoe boxes in min - Surp Giragos Diyarbakir/Dikranagerd Church and the first Armenian reclaim of church prop - isters’ homes. Erdogan counter attacked by swiftly removing, replacing and firing thou - erties in Anatolia after 1915. He gave the first piano concert in the Surp Giragos Church sands of state prosecutors, judges and police officers deemed to be followers of the Gulen since 1915.) 16 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 22, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

PKK Leader’s Life Sentence ‘Rights Switzerland Files Suit in ECHR Grand Violation,’ European Court Rules Chamber In Perinçek Case

ISTANBUL (Today’s Zaman) — The or degrading treatment) of the ECHR regarding SWITZERLAND, from page 1 European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) the conditions of Öcalan’s detention up until of Justice Folko Galie informed Armenpress that usually it takes for several months till the announced a ruling on Tuesday on an appli - November 17, 2009. Öcalan was in solitary con - five-judges commission makes a decision if the case will be reviewed by the Grand Chamber cation filed by Kurdistan Workers’ Party finement at the Imrali prison from February or not.If the appeal case is rejected, the verdict by the court becomes final and is trans - (PKK) leader Abdullah Öcalan, indicating 1999 to November 2009. By six votes to one, ferred to the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers to control its implementation. that Turkey partly violated the European the court ruled that there had not been any vio - The European Convention on Human Rights provides for referral to the Grand Chamber Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and lation of the same article during the period sub - in cases including those which raise a serious question affecting the interpretation or appli - calling on the country to create the possibili - sequent to November 17, 2009. cation of the Convention. In the present case, Switzerland’s primary interest is in clarifying ty of conditional release for life sentences, or However, the court also ruled that there had the scope available to the domestic authorities in applying the criminal anti-racism provision even abolish them completely. been a violation of Article 3 regarding Öcalan’s laid down in the Swiss Criminal Code (Art. 261bis CC). Switzerland created this penal provi - Öcalan’s application mainly concerned his sentence to life imprisonment without parole sion, which entered into force on 1 January 1995, to close loopholes in criminal law and irreducible life sentence and the conditions of but, by four votes to three, the court decided enable the country to accede to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial his detention. He was captured in 1999 in the there had been no violation of Article 8 (right Discrimination. Kenyan capital of Nairobi and is currently serv - to respect private and family life). It also ruled On March 9, 2007, Turkish national Perinçek received a fine and jail sentence under Art. ing a life sentence on the island of Imrali near that there had been no violation of Article 7, 261bis CC for denying the Armenian Genocide. The Cantonal Court of Canton Vaud and the Istanbul. He was convicted of leading the PKK titled “No punishment without law.” Federal Supreme Court both rejected appeals against the judgment. In its ruling of December in an armed struggle against the Turkish mili - The exceptional part of the ruling concerns 17, the chamber of the European Court of Human Rights determined that the Swiss court - tary. the life imprisonment of the PKK leader with - s’ rulings violated the appellant’s right to freedom of expression. Citing Articles 2, 3 and 8 of the ECHR, out any prospect of release. The court stated Perinçek, the leader of a minor Turkish political party, had traveled to Switzerland in 2005 Öcalan filed complains on his social isolation that the sentence should not be “irreducible,” with the intention of daring the Swiss authorities to punish him for denying the Armenian inside Imrali Prison and the restrictions which means that a prisoner serving life should Genocide. He brazenly called the Armenian Genocide an “international lie”. In response to a imposed on his phone communications, his cor - be allowed the possibility of being released. criminal complaint filed by the Switzerland-Armenia Association, Perinçek was tried and respondence and his visits from members of his The ECHR argued that its ruling was ade - fined for racial discrimination by the Lausanne Police Court in March 2007. A Swiss Appeals family and lawyers. He also claims that he is quate to compensate for the harm done, indi - Court confirmed his sentence, ruling that he had violated Article 261bis of the Criminal being gradually poisoned. cating that Öcalan did not file a request for any Code. The National Council (parliament) of Switzerland had already recognized the Armenian In the judgment given by the court on form of compensation. The court ruled that Genocide in 2003. Perinçek then appealed his case to the Federal Tribunal, the highest court Tuesday, the ECtHR ruled that there had been Turkey should pay Öcalan 25,000 euros for in Switzerland, which reconfirmed his sentence. a violation of Article 3 (prohibition of inhuman court costs and expenses. Turkey Suspends Ex-Police Intelligence Head for Sherman Encourages Kerry to Support ‘Negligence’ in Dink Case Affirmation of Armenian Genocide

SUSPENSION, from page 1 Akyürek’s approval when he was serving in SHERMAN, from page 1 to fly into the Nagorno Karabagh airport.” Akyürek’s record that he was close to the move - Trabzon. Tuncel was one of the perpetrators of “The Azeri soldier that murdered a sleeping “We commend Congressman Sherman for ment of US-based Islamic scholar Fethullah the bombing of a McDonalds in the city in Armenian soldier at a NATO exercise has been raising these critically important issues with Gülen. 2004, immediately after Akyürek was appointed promoted and praised and in light of that and Secretary Kerry,” stated Armenian Assembly of Akyürek’s stellar ascension within the police to the Black Sea province. other aggressive actions, I hope that you will America Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. continued despite a very poor record and a Tuncel claimed he warned the local police review and perhaps withdraw any military assis - “On the eve of the 99th anniversary of the number of criminal events occurring under his about a plot to murder Dink in Istanbul in tance to Azerbaijan,” stated Sherman. He Armenian Genocide, Congressman Sherman’s responsibility. 2007. It subsequently came to light, however, added, “I hope that you will also warn the remarks serve as a timely reminder to the One of the key suspects in Dink’s murder, that Akyürek had conveyed only one out of 11 Azeris that it is simply outrageous for them to Administration to fulfill its commitment,” Erhan Tuncel, became a police informant with notices to the Istanbul Police Department. threaten to shoot down civilian aircraft that try Ardouny continued.