California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Non-Profit and Armenian Students Organization U.S. Postage 5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PAID Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Permit No. 262 Change Service Requested FRESNO, CA HYE SHARZHOOM th Armenian Action FA| December 2013 Vol. 35, No. 2 (124) Ethnic Supplement to The Collegian New Book-The Armenian Epic Society for Armenian Studies Holds 39th “David of Sassoun” Released Annual Meeting at MESA in New Orleans St a f f Re p o r t Armenian Studies Program faculty, Professors Barlow Der Mugrdechian and Sergio La Porta, traveled to New Orleans, October 10-13, to participate in the Middle East Studies Association’s (MESA) 47th Annual Meeting, as well as the Society for Armenian Studies (SAS) 39th Annual Meeting. The Society for Armenian Studies, the professional association that represents scholars and teachers in the field of Armenian Studies, meets annually in conjunction with MESA. Prof. Archive ASP Photo: Left to right: Suren Oganessian, Denise Altounian, Hagop Der Mugrdechian is the Treasurer Front row, left to right: Talar Chahinian, Lilit Keshishyan, Ohanessian, Jayla Tunstall, Prof. Sergio La Porta, Alek of the SAS and manages the SAS Myrna Douzjian, Tamar Boyadjian, Shushan Karapetian, and Khatchigian, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Marine Vardan- Secretariat, and Prof. La Porta Kevork Bardakjian. Back row, left to right: Jean Murachanian, yan, Ovsanna Simonyan, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, and Vartush is editor of the Journal of the Arpi Siyahian, Sergio La Porta, Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Ani Mesropyan after the “David of Sassoun” presentation. Society for Armenian Studies and Kasparian, and Santoukht Mikaelian at the MESA meeting. Photo: ASP Archive an ex-officio member of the SAS workshops during the three-day fields that included some with Su r e n Og a n e ss i a n in Armenia where the Epic is Executive Council. MESA conference, organized an Armenian topic or theme. St a f f Wr i t e r celebrated with recitations and There were 285 panels and in a variety of disciplines and Se e SAS Pa g e 7 music. “David of Sassoun” is an On Thursday, November 21, Armenian Studies Collection in New Online Catalog Armenian Epic whose impact on 2013, the Armenian Studies Ta m a r Me l k o n i a n The Program is now in the Armenian culture has been great, Program announced the official St a f f Wr i t e r process of creating a centralized from statues commemorating launch of its fourth title in the online digital catalog that will “David” both in Fresno and Armenian Series of The Press at Did you know that the make its collection available to Yerevan, to commemorative coins Armenian Studies Program has one search. The online catalog makes and stamps, to an annual holiday Se e Da v i d o f Sa ss o u n Pa g e 7 of the largest and most extensive the Armenian Studies Program’s Armenian Students Organization collections of books, magazines, resources accessible to scholars and other materials on Armenian and to the public. Malina Zakian Enjoying Active Semester subjects in the United States? La Porta, under the supervision of Throughout the years the Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, has received generous donations has led the effort to have books, of books from community memoirs, newspapers, DVDs, and members, authors, and Armenian VHS tapes cataloged, making the institutions worldwide. However, collection searchable by author, until recently the works were title, subject, and keyword. inaccessible because they had not Cover of Navasart journal. been completely cataloged. Se e ASP Ca t a l o g Pa g e 7 Hye Sharzhoom Celebrates Its 35th Anniversary Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n Ed i t o r Hye Sharzhoom, the only university published Armenian student newspaper in the United States and the oldest in the world to be continuously published, is Photo: ASP Archive ASP Photo: celebrating its 35th anniversary in ASO held its Bowling Night on Sunday, November 24, at the 2014. University Student Union. The first edition of Hye Em m a Sh a l j y a n activities such as the Annual Car Sharzhoom was published on April St a f f Wr i t e r Wash, Game Day, Movie Night, 18, 1979, as part of Armenian a Halloween outing to Raisin Martyr’s Week at Fresno State The Armenian Student Hell Ranch, and one of the most and marking the anniversary of Organization (ASO) tries its best popular events, Bowling Night. the Armenian Genocide. to stay in touch with the Fresno The Annual Car Wash took The first edition was edited community and with the members place in the parking lot of the by Mark Malkasian and Mark Archive ASP Photo: of the organization itself. Thus, Viktoria’s Place restaurant Najarian, with Bryan Bedrosian, Some of the Fall 2013 Hye Sharzhoom staff. Front row, left throughout the year many from early morning until Dale Tatoian, Barlow Der to right: Emma Shaljyan, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, Marine Var- activities are organized to bring mid-afternoon. Students and Mugrdechian, and Patty Torosian danyan. Back row, left to right: Tamar Melkonian, Ruzan students at Fresno State together. community members came out to on the staff. Orkusyan, Denise Altounian, Vartush Mesropyan, and Prof. As the Fall semester began, ASO Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Advisor. worked immediately to organize Se e ASO Pa g e 4 Se e Hy e Sh a z h o o m Pa g e 8 2 Hye Sharzhoom December 2013 Armenian Studies Program Book/Video/CD Archival Gifts California State University, Fresno Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La Porta, and Armenian Studies Program the Armenian Studies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, Spring 2014 Schedule of Courses and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon, for a gift of his new • Arm 1B-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B Der Mugrdechian book Issues and Perspectives (Antelias, Armenian Catholicosate of (Class #32264) Cilicia, 2013), 242pp., in English. A volume by Catholicos Aram I composed of lectures, articles, and notes, covering issues of religion, church, the ecumenical movement, interfaith dialogue, identity, • Hum 10-Hum Antqty/Ren 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh S La Porta human rights and democracy, and their impact on daily life. (Class #32358) Dr. Hayk Demoyan, Director, Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute, Yerevan, Armenia for a copy of his new book, The Foreign Policy of Upper Division Armenian Studies Courses Turkey and the Karabagh Conflict: A Historical Comparative Study (Yerevan, 2013), 492pp., in Russian, with an English summary. • ArmS 108B-Arm History II 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B Der Mugrdechian The monograph analyzes the political attitude of Turkey towards (Class #32263) Armenia and the Karabagh conflict in both historical and current perspectives. General Education-Arts & Humanities, Area IC David Gasparyan, Yerevan, Armenia, for the gift of his following • Arm 148-Masterp. of Arm Culture 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh B Der Mugrdechian three books: Amerikahay Angliagir Banasteghdzner (Armenian- American Poets Writing in English) 186pp., in Armenian; Haykakan (Class #33160) Apagayapashtutyun (Armenian Futurism), 174pp., in Armenian; and Kensamatenagitutyun Davit Gasparyan (A Bibliography of New Course Davit Gasparyan) (Yerevan: National Institute of Education, 2005), • Arm 120T-Arm Cultural History 3 4:00P-6:50P W S La Porta 159pp., in Armenian. Prof. David Gasparyan is a writer, literary (Class #36304) critic, and an expert on the writer Yeghishe Charents. Tamar Hovhannisyan, Carmel, California, for the gift of her new book For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669 of poems Linelutyan Hamanvag (Symphony of Being) (Yerevan: HGM Publishing, 2013). 479pp., in Armenian. or visit our offices in the Peters Business Building, Room 384. Shahen Khachatourian, Yerevan, Armenia, for a series of six Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. Check on requirements monographs by him on noted artists of Armenia: Hagop Ekizyan, for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the current catalog: Petros Kontrachyan (Peto), Martiros Saryan, Arshile Gorky, Minas http://www.fresnostate.edu/catalog/subjects/armenian-studies/armenia-mn.html Avetisyan, and Hagop Hagopian. In Armenian, Russian, and English. George Mouradian, Commerce Twp., Michigan, for a copy of his Armenian InfoText (a CD that pictorially covers major events in Armenian history) and the book Notable Armenian Sayings and HYE SHARZHOOM Family Reunions (Commerce Twp., Michigan, 2010) by George Mouradian and Aris Sevag, 87pp., in English. The book is a collection of Armenian sayings and proverbs that have been used FA| Photo: ASP Archive ASP Photo: was known for his use of rich Left to right: Michael Rettig, Vartush Mesropyan, Marine colors and beautiful detail seen in Vardanyan, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, and Alek Khatchigian, manuscripts executed during the with Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, right. period of the Cilician Kingdom. The second fortress was that of Ta m a r Me l k o n i a n presentation, which highlighted Sis, the capital of the Armenian St a f f Wr i t e r all of the beautiful historic sites Kingdom of Cilicia and also that Professor Der Mugrdechian significant as the site of the Have you ever wondered what visited. Armenian Catholicosate until the a trip to historic Armenia would Der Mugrdechian’s trip was time of the Armenian Genocide. be like? On Friday, September centered on Armenian Cilicia, but Professor Der Mugrdechian Archive ASP Photo: 27, 2013, Professor Barlow Der also included a variety of other and his group then traveled to the Mugrdechian, Coordinator of cities that he visited in the first island castle of Korikos, along Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian at the Fortress of Sis. the Armenian Studies Program, five days of his trip: Kars, Ani, the Mediterranean Sea. Stops in In contrast to this destruction, Armenian Genocide, and also shared a presentation on his Van, Bitlis, Moush, Dickranagerd Adana and Tarsus gave testimony Professor Der Mugrdechian opening the legal case in Turkey. summer trip to historic Armenia. (Diyarbekir), and more. In to the Armenian history of the explained that in some areas A large audience was in Titled “Historic Armenia II: eleven days, Professor Der region. Armenian churches are being attendance and it was great to Armenian Cilicia,” this event Mugrdechian’s group traveled The remnants of the once renovated with the permission see people being so engaged. was part two in a series by Der more than 3,000 miles. While vibrant Armenian communities of the government, such as St. Many appreciated Prof. Der Mugrdechian, following a lecture showing photos from Aintab, he were embodied in the Armenian Giragos in Dickranagerd and Mugrdechian’s presentation and about his first trip to historic also described some of the meals churches that remained. Holy Trinity in Malatia. thanked him for taking the time Armenia in 2012. All eyes focused he enjoyed there: lahmajoon and He later visited Vakif, in the The lecture concluded with a to connect cultural history with on the images shared in the pistachio paklava, which sparked region of Musa Dagh, which is question and answer session that today’s Armenians. ASO, Fr o m Pa g e 1 support the organization at their Ar e y o u a g r a d u a t e largest fundraiser of the year. Dedicated ASO members worked o f Fr e s n o St a t e ? hard while listening to upbeat Armenian music, which gave them the energy to wash cars and Se n d u s y o u r e m a i l t o g e t o n t h e have fun. The event was a success; ASP Ne w s a n d Ev e n t s l i s t . members spent time with friends, helped raise money for ASO, and most importantly, they worked as a team. b a r l o w d @cs u f r e s n o .e d u The next event, Game Day, took place at Fresno State’s Archive ASP Photo: Kevork Ajamian Graduates with O’Neill Park. This is an event that Suren Oganessian, center, won the “Best Dressed” award is eagerly awaited as it serves as at the ASO Halloween party and movie night held on Satur- Minor in Armenian Studies an icebreaker for many of the new day, October 26. members. The event started off Kevork Ajamian with some light snacks, pleasant event began with the screening a “1920s Great Gatsby group,” History conversation, and Armenian of the horror movie “Strangers,” a “musketeer,” and many others. Minor in Armenian Studies music. The executives prepared followed by a costume contest ASO also visited the Raisin Hell a variety of games, including where a “best dressed” winner Ranch with a large group of people What encouraged you to take dodge ball, a water-balloon toss, was announced. This year’s who successfully found their an Armenian Studies course? and catchphrase. Game Day left winner was Suren Oganessian way out of the Black-out Maze, I was encouraged to take Armenian everyone with high spirits and who dressed up as a very and escaped from Chupacabra’s Studies courses primarily because fun memories. convincing Charlie Chaplin and Feast and Scarecrow’s Revenge. I am Armenian, and also because ASO also planned Halloween- he even copied Chaplin’s walking With their visit to the Raisin Hell of the great things I had heard themed events such as Halloween style! There were many beautiful Ranch, ASO concluded their about the Program and Prof. Der Movie Night, which took place and creative costumes at the Halloween celebration for this Mugrdechian, through my mother on the evening of October 26. The event such as a “Mickey Mouse,” year. and aunt who had also taken One of the final events of courses. It also complements my the semester is also the one major in History. where members become most What did you value most competitive. You may have from your experiences in the Photo: Cary Edmondson, University Photographer guessed it—bowling. Organized Armenian Studies Program? Kevork Ajamian at the Fresno State University The most valuable experience Diaspora” with visiting Professor Student Union bowling center, from the Armenian Studies Dr. George Bournoutian, and everyone showed up prepared Program would be the information an Armenian Studies 20-Arts to make some strikes! But who I learned. I now have a deeper of Armenia course with Prof. lost and who won didn’t matter understanding of my culture and Der Mugrdechian, where I because the event was full of fun why it’s so unique. learned about Armenian church and laughter, the most important What was your favorite architecture and manuscript factor of every ASO event. Armenian Studies class, activity, illumination. The organization now looks or event? What are your plans after forward to their Christmas It’s difficult to say which class graduation? Party on Friday, December 20- was my favorite, since they My plans are to begin the an evening that will be full of each offered their own unique credential program to become Photo: ASP Archive ASP Photo: dancing, delicious food, and great values. However, my two most a teacher. I would like to relay ASO members organized a successful Car Wash on Satur- company—a welcome ending to memorable would be a course Armenian history to my high day, October 12, at the Viktoria’s Place restaurant. the Fall Semester. on the “Armenian Genocide and school students down the road. December 2013 Hye Sharzhoom 5 National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia in Fresno Armenian Genocide Ephemera have classical concerts with Project Launched at Fresno State Armenian music, so this was a very nice change. I enjoyed all of An d r e w Es g u e r r a the compositions, but the second St a f f Wr i t e r half was closer to my heart.” Beautiful Armenian pieces Armenian Studies began at followed the intermission, Fresno State with a mere couple beginning with a medley by of classes just over half a century Komitas Vartabed: “Ay Aylughes,” ago. Today, the Armenian Studies “Kele-Kele,” “Shogher Djan,” Program is one of the staple such “Habrban,” “Erkinqn Ampela,” Programs in the United States, and “Vagharshapat.” This offering courses that disseminate was followed by an exquisite knowledge of Armenian language, composition called “Shushanik” culture, art, literature, and history by Edvard Mirzoyan, which to students. In addition, the steadily carried the audience to another growing Program, based in the world, with the help of first College of Arts and Humanities, violinist Astghik Vardanyan, who advises Hye Sharzhoom, advises The National Chamber Orchestra, with pianist Vahan Mard- performed with great emotion. and supports the Armenian irossian, center. Photo: Vartush Mesropyan The evening concluded Students Organization, and lines Genocide Program (1980) with the most dazzling piece, up engaging speakers from all time for a planned exhibit of the Ta t e v i k Ho v h a n n i s y a n The event took place in the “Khachaturiana” by Ruben over the world for its Lecture collection, explains Professor Der St a f f Wr i t e r Paul Shaghoian Concert Hall, Altunian, based on the popular Series, among many other special Mugrdechian. filled with an audience excited compositions of Khachaturian, projects. Learning about the scope of The works of composer Aram to enjoy a delightful evening such as “Sabre Dance,” “Waltz One such newly launched this project, one can only wonder Khachaturian are always beautiful of beautiful music, under the Masquerade,” and the “Dance of project is the Genocide Ephemera what ephemera from Genocide to listen to, but when they are direction of Robert Mlkeyan. the Rose Maidens.” Project. This Project aims to collect commemorations will show performed by an Armenian The National Chamber The musicians poured their soul ephemera, or printed materials, about how Armenians of the San orchestra, the same compositions Orchestra of Armenia (NCOA) into the music and mesmerized related to the commemoration of Joaquin Valley have changed in transport the audience to another was formed in 1962 in Soviet the audience. the Armenian Genocide, from the the ways they have addressed the world—the Armenian world. Armenia and recently celebrated Armenian Students local community. Armenian Genocide. On Saturday, November 16, its 50th Anniversary. Organization President Vartush Armenian Studies Program While many types of printed the National Chamber Orchestra One of the many talented Mesropyan commented, “When I Coordinator Professor Barlow artifacts could prove priceless to of Armenia visited Fresno for a members of the NCOA is Artistic listen to classical music it makes Der Mugrdechian is heading this collection, for community concert dedicated to the 110th Director and Principal Conductor, me feel calm and at peace. The this project, with the goal of members who do not want to part birthday of Aram Khachaturian, pianist Vahan Mardirossian. NCOA performed beautifully-it collecting memorabilia focused with their memorabilia, copies will one of the greatest composers of The program began with was breathtaking.” on the Armenian Genocide. The be made in the Armenian Studies the 20th century. the performance of a popular The audience was so pleased Armenian Studies Program is Program office and the originals The concert was organized Mozart composition “Eine Kleine with the orchestra that they did seeking posters, photographs, returned. Everyone should be by the Charlie Keyan Armenian Nachtmusik” (A Little Night not want the evening to end, booklets, newspaper articles, encouraged to become a part of Community School of Fresno in Music) followed by Haydn’s filling the auditorium with loud programs, and other printed this project by contributing. cooperation with International “Piano Concerto in G Major,” applause and calls of “Bravo.” artifacts that provide a holistic A collection showing the Competitions and Festivals, featuring Mardirossian. Following an encore, the view of what has been said and dedication of the Armenian Inc., and in partnership with “I really enjoyed the concert,” audience departed deeply satisfied done over the past decades to community to the truth is the Ministry of Culture of the said community member Narine with the exceptional evening of commemorate the Armenian something that should be on Republic of Armenia. Orkusyan. “We don’t always music. Genocide in the San Joaquin display, not gathering dust. Just Valley. as the Genocide is an integral part December 7, 1988-Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the Materials that people may of who the Armenians are today, Armenian Earthquake Recalled in 2013 Memoir have from previous Genocide so too are the decades of effort commemorations will prove a to recognize the tragedies that Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n eye-witness account of what took every direction. The first thought valuable contribution for this began on April 24, 1915, and that Ed i t o r place on December 7, 1988. that came to my mind was ‘my project. In the spring of 2014, commemorate the loss. children, I want to see them’ and I commemorations marking If you would like to participate The clock tower froze at started running. the 99th anniversary of the and contribute materials to the 11:41 while children were at On my way to the school I saw Armenian Genocide will take Project, contact the Armenian school, parents at work, and busy a group of students with teachers place throughout the world, Studies Program office by people were running errands. who were standing outside and making now the opportune time calling (559) 278-2669, or email These individuals became the crying. I approached them and to begin the call for artifacts in [email protected]. unsuspecting victims of a terrible started looking for my older disaster, one that devastated the daughter, and on the other side I Family History Project Excerpts saw her. She was very scared and historical city of Gyumri (then My grandfather, Suren she was crying. After finding her Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n Leninakan) and stole the lives of Oganessian the First, was born in we went to the kindergarten. In the Ed i t o r an estimated 25,000 Armenians, Meghri, Armenia, 1905. A hard Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian yard I saw that nothing remained injuring 15,000. With a reported time to grow up for almost any of the building and I shouted In the October 2013 issue of magnitude of 6.9, followed by an Roza Marabyan Armenian, to be sure. He disliked ‘No!,’ not allowing myself to Hye Sharzhoom, excerpts from aftershock of magnitude 5.8, the talking about his childhood, so I believe that something happened family histories prepared by Gyumri Earthquake called for When the earthquake began, do not even know the names of to my children. The most painful students who had enrolled in a rapid international response. I was a little kid and I don’t his family members, but what I part was seeing my son’s jacket Spring 2013 course taught by Dr. To this day the 1988 earthquake remember all of the details. My do know is that he was the only under a big piece of stone. I fell Sona Haroutyunian (University has left a haunting presence over parents told me that my brother surviving member of his family. down, closed my eyes, and felt of Ca’ Foscari Venice), Kazan the city. Some buildings continue and I were in kindergarten, my After leaving the orphanage in the numbness in my legs and body. Visiting Professor in Armenian to lay in ruins, and the Armenian sister was in school, which was 1920’s, he got a job as a school- I didn’t realize how loud I was Studies, were published. people continue to carry the next to our house, and my father teacher in mathematics, but during crying. Following are the three remaining pain of losing their families and was at work. this time, he also secretly joined In that moment, one of the excerpts: homes. My mother described the the Dashnak political party. kindergarten teachers came to me December 7, 2013 marks earthquake and her memory of In 1930, Suren’s Dashnak and said that my children were the 25th anniversary of the that day. comrades brought a stencil alive and that my husband had Earthquake. Many reading this “I was home alone around printing machine into his house already picked them up. Hearing article cannot begin to imagine 11:41 local time and I felt that the so that they could print anti- this, my daughter and I rushed the amount of fear, chaos, and ground started to shake. At first I government booklets. One of these home. On our way we saw that heartbreak experienced by the didn’t want to believe that it was people, however, turned out to be my daughter, son, and husband victims of the earthquake. Unlike an earthquake. I thought it was a communist spy. On November were looking for us. I cannot most of her classmates in Dr. just my imagination, yet the very 3, 1930, police arrested Suren explain in words what I felt the Sona Haroutyunian’s Spring next second furniture began to fall along with the rest of his group. moment I saw that everyone was 2013 course, who presented and I quickly ran outside. When He was taken to Medekh prison alive. Many people went mad their memoir projects on the I was outside, I saw that the city in Tiflis, Georgia. He writes in from losing their loved ones. Armenian Genocide, student was covered in dust, buildings his memoir, “The cells were so Aside from the large amounts of Roza Marabyan chose to share were shaking and collapsing, crowded with these miserables her mother’s personal experience people were running in panic, and deaths, many were left physically Suren Oganessian disabled. The whole city was in of the earthquake. The following I listened to the cries and shouts Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Se e Fa m i l y Hi s t o r y Pa g e 6 is an excerpt from her mother’s of ‘help, help, help,’ coming from mourning.” 6 Hye Sharzhoom December 2013 Second International Armenian Studies Congress Eench Ga Chga Organized by Academy of Sciences in Yerevan De n i s e Al t o u n i a n • St a f f Wr i t e r and dignitaries from throughout the world were present. As the holiday season approaches, More than two hundred what are you most looking forward to? scholars from throughout the and appreciate those you have world gathered to present their around you. new research and to discuss issues in the field of Armenian Studies. The Congress was organized in sections, including “History,” “Archaeology and Ethnography,” “Linguistics,” “Literature,” “Art and Architecture,” “Problems of the Armenian Genocide,” “Problems of Armenian Identity,” “Armenian Philosophical,” “Socio-Political Thought: Achievements and Modern Menas Arisian Junior Photo: ASP Archive ASP Photo: Problems of Development,” Major: Business Participants and guests from the second session of the and the “Armenian Church and Elena Sarmazian section on “Problems of the Armenian Genocide.” Armenian Studies.” Sophomore Fresno was represented by I really look forward to spending Major: Psychology St a f f Re p o r t the Presidency of Dr. Radik Armenian Studies Program more time with family and friends. Martirosyan. Director Barlow Der Mugrdechian I am also excited and thankful for As the holiday season approaches The Second International The Congress coincided with who co-chaired the second session the good Armenian meals that I’m really looking forward to all Congress on Armenian Studies the 70th anniversary celebration of the section on “Problems of will be provided. the “holiday” food that we are “Armenian Studies and the of the founding of the National the Armenian Genocide,” and going to eat, like blinchiks, khash, Challenges of Modern Times,” Academy of Sciences of Armenia, who also delivered a paper in t’tu, and so on. was held October 17-19, 2013 in and a gala celebration was held in the third session on “The Theme Yerevan, Armenia. the Opera Building on Monday, of the Genocide in 20th Century The Congress was sponsored October 14. The President of Armenian-American Literature.” and organized by the National the Republic of Armenia, Serzh A plenary session closed the Academy of Sciences of the Sargsyan, Catholicos Garegin II Congress, which had last been Republic of Armenia, under of the Holy See of Etchmiadzin held in 2003. Ka r a b a g h , Fr o m Pa g e 3 and Azerbaijan. The Bolsheviks Dr. Ara Sanjian’s presentation Karabagh should be administered saw regions such as Karabagh sought to give an overview of by Soviet Armenia. Ultimately as a means to communicate with how Armenians viewed the however, Nagorno-Karabagh Kemalist Turkey, which whom Karabagh issue in the Diasporan was granted the status of an the Bolsheviks shared common press, between the years 1923- Photos: Barlow Der Mugrdechian autonomous region, but under the enemies. 1985. Due to illness Dr. Sanjian Vachagan Vardanyan jurisdiction of Soviet Azerbaijan. Dr. Saparov concluded that the was not present at the lecture, but Senior Sona Soghomonian The process of how this decision Soviets were trying to resolve, his paper was read by Dr. Sergio Major: Computer Science Sophomore was made was the focus of Dr. rather than to manipulate, further La Porta of the Armenian Studies Major: Chemistry Saparov’s presentation. conflicts. He identified a pattern Program. What I look forward to most is the The declarations of that emerged in the disputed In his paper Dr. Sanjian company of friends and family. I am most looking forward to independence of Armenia, regions—whoever first controlled compared how the issue of Being so busy all the time, it’s eating and spending time with Georgia, and Azerbaijan in these territories would retain Karabagh was raised in the nice to relax for a couple of days family. 1918 did not mention territorial control under Soviet rule. The newspapers of the three major boundaries, which led to disputes effect of these decisions made Armenian political parties: the Karabagh should be pursued. In Dr. Sanjian’s research over the regions of Zangezur, nearly one hundred years ago, Dashnaks, the Hunchaks, and the 1960’s, the issue of “Karabagh delineated the various themes Nakhichevan, and Karabagh. By are still a source for discussion the Ramgavars. There were and ‘internal lands’ was raised in in the Armenian press regarding 1921, the Russian communists today. numerous polemics in the press the Armenian press, especially in Se e Ka r a b a g h Pa g e 7 had taken over Armenia, Georgia, on how demands for return of Lebanon. Fa m i l y Hi s t o r y , Fr o m Pa g e 5 in America… always say, ‘As long as you are going to Alexandropol (today’s and I hear her wiping her tears When my father was young healthy that is all I want.’ But this Gyumri), when suddenly I heard and nose. that even the drops of water from and his family had immigrated little happiness didn’t last long a lady scream, ‘Asatur!’ I turned “I do not know where I was the ceiling could not find their to Chicago, my grandfather for us. We were separated by a around. It was my mother!” born exactly nor do I remember way to the floor.” In his memoir, offered his advice, learned from devastating event that took place who my mother was,” she starts Under Stalin’s Sun: Reflections, his terrible five years as a Gulag in 1915. her story. “When I was six 1920-1945, tr. by J. Tashjian (Los prisoner. “Son, never get involved I was six years old. I didn’t months old she passed away. Angeles, 1981), Suren notes that in politics,” he would say, holding know who we were running from, With no choice, my father gave while he was a legitimate political up the hand where two of his why we were going away from away my twin to his friend and prisoner, the majority of the fingertips had been severed during our own town… As the hours me to his other friend… At the prisoners were simply villagers, his torturous interrogations, passed I realized that I lost my age of nineteen I met my thirty- incarcerated for petty things like “Look what it did for me.” mom and my two brothers. I sat on one year old husband who had stealing a loaf of bread or owning a rock and began to cry, because come to Bulgaria from Greece more cows or goats than the I didn’t know what else to do. to find work. During the same government allowed. The sadness of losing my mother year, I became pregnant and my In July 1931 Suren was was stronger than the hunger I husband and I decided to move to transported from Medekh to a was feeling. I hadn’t eaten for Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian Armenia… prison in Tashkent, Uzbekistan six days. Out of nowhere, two On May 11, 1965, my husband and in the spring of 1932 to yet very nice looking people came up Vartanush Mesropyan died from a severe infection and another prison in Moscow, where to me and started speaking with I was left with my 19, 14, and 8 he spent most of the time in solitary me. I couldn’t understand them My grandmother! She is sitting year old children… confinement, before being loaded as they were speaking in Russian. in the living room alone, with For many years I have on a crowded train with other All I remember was that the man her legs crossed. She has a very struggled, I have seen so many prisoners to a concentration camp grabbed me and took me to their serious face and keeps looking deaths and have buried so many in Siberia in October, 1933… Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian big house. The lady, realizing that around. She feels weak and has dead. The most painful time was April 17, 1935, was a rest I couldn’t understand her, began fear inside her eyes. She tries to when I buried my own husband. day at the camp, when many of Tatevik Hovhannisyan to speak with me in my language whisper to herself but her voice He was not able to see his the guards traveled to nearby and I felt a relief. But I didn’t want is coming out loud. At times she children, grandchildren, and great villages to shop and mingle with My grandfather Asatur was her to be my new mother! Was this does not know where she is and grandchildren grow up. I am still Russian women. “If you’re really born in 1909. This is part of his the end? Was I never going to see does not understand how her life growing strong as an 86 year planning on escaping, this is the story. my mom and brothers? I didn’t flew by so quickly. old woman. I have three proud time. You’ll never have a better “I remember being happy in want to believe that. Every night She continues speaking: children, seven grandchildren, chance than this,” Suren told Kars in a complete family, with I would remember our house in “Where is my husband? Where is and ten great-grandchildren. I am himself. Here his autobiography two brothers, a sister, and parents Kars and my family that I lost… my father? Where is my mother? living a happy life with my loved becomes scant, but what I do that I loved so much, but one Months passed. One day my And where is my older son? I ones. I pray to God for good know is that he managed to arrive day it all ended. Mom would stepmom and I were in the carriage, miss them.” She begins crying health, peace, and happiness. December 2013 Hye Sharzhoom 7 SAS, Fr o m Pa g e 1 Thank You Annual Fund Donors different parts of the world. (received as of November 27, 2013) Mike & Sue Kilijian Among these were several panels Reports of ongoing projects and Anton & Maral Kismetian sponsored by the SAS, including a also future plans were presented Benefactors Edward Asadorian Nancy Kolligian panel on “Recapturing Armenian at the SAS Annual Membership Arnold & Dianne Gazarian, Seth Atamian Dr. Alex Kouyoumdjian Ottomanism Through a Man of meeting. In 2014 SAS will mark The Gazarian Family Fund George & Mary Atashkarian Nancy Kricorian Tanzimat: The Ottoman Life its 40th anniversary with an Levon Baladjanian Dr. S.S. Krikorian, Jr., D.C. of Bishop Mkrtich Khrimian,” Armenian Studies Conference in Associate Harriet Boghosian Mr. & Mrs. John Maljanian organized by Dzovinar Derderian Yerevan, to be held jointly with Col. George Pehlvanian Bill Bohigian Dr. Ron Marchese (University of Michigan); a the National Academy of Sciences Mark Bohigian Paquie Markarian panel on “Armenian Art and of Armenia. Patrons Martin & Barbara Bohigian Dr. Vahe Meghrouni Architecture in 18th-20th A new SAS website Bob Der Mugrdechian Mr. & Mrs. Jack Bousian Sophie Mekhitarian Century Constantinople: A has been launched, Mrs. Herbert Lion Dr. Marlene Breu Maile Melkonian Re-Evaluation,” organized societyforarmenianstudies.com, Standard Truck & Trailer Sales, Christine Darmanian Judy Michalowski by Prof. Der Mugrdechian; a with many new features for Inc., George Daoudian Karl DeKlotz Mid-Valley Packaging & Supply roundtable on “New Strategies members, including a directory Kathleen Demerdjian Co., John Gahvejian and Methodologies for Teaching and access to past issues of the Friends Bob & Sara Der Matoian Ed Minasian of Modern Armenian Language,” SAS Newsletter. Those who are Edward & Eleonore Aslanian Michael & Yeran Devejian Dr. Anoush Miridjanian organized by Ani Kasparian interested in joining the SAS N. Leon Dermenjian Sossie Djabrayan Armand & Nadia Mirijanian (University of Michigan) and can go to the website and apply George Ignatius Foundation, Diana Boghosian Dorough George Mouradian chaired by Prof. Der Mugrdechian; for membership. There are Trustees: George Phillips, Esq., Dr. Heratch Doumanian Annette & John Moushigian and a roundtable on “Challenging several categories of membership Michael Amerian, Esq., Stephen T. Dulgarian Alice Muradilyan Entrenched Categories: Re- including supporting. and Walter Karabian Lillian Egoian Suren Nazaryan Thinking Approaches to Armenian The SAS Secretariat is based in Betty Hagopian Howard & Dorothy Emirhanian Dr. Hartune Neffian Literature,” organized by Tamar the Armenian Studies Program at Gloria Enochian Mrs. Kay Paboojian Boyadjian, with the participation Fresno States and inquiries about Sponsors Harry & Marian Eritzian Tom & Mary Ann Paloutzian of Dr. La Porta. membership can also be made by G. Franklin Antoyan Lilian K. Etmekjian Gladys K. Peters Other panels were held with email at [email protected] Randy & Mary Baloian Dr. Larry Farsakian Robert H. Philibosian scholars participating from many or by phone at 559-278-2669. Margaret Giragosian Sam & Betty Farsakian Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Rich Hekemian Mary Fermanian Grace Rustigian Ka r a b a g h , Fr o m Pa g e 6 authorities and even changed as Dr. & Prof. Sarkis & Silva Marilyn Fowler Margaret Sahatdjian the Karabagh issue, including circumstances changed within Karayan Jane Gamoian Edward & Roseann Saliba arguments that “these lands were Soviet Armenia. However, in the Mike & Jackie Matosian Dr. Alexander Grigorian Mr. & Mrs. Garbis Sariyan historically Armenian,” and period 1953-1985, none of the Brian & Janalee Melikian Asadour & Nvart Hadjian Leon & Shirley Saryan “Soviet Armenia should have full articles dealing with the ‘internal David & Margaret Mgrublian Antoinette Hagopian Elizabeth Sempadian republican sovereignty over these lands’ foresaw the dissolution of National Raisin Company, Fr. Hovsep Hagopian Mrs. Armon Simonian issues.” It was interesting to see the Soviet Union. Bedrosian Family Arthur Hampar Edward L. Sornigian the various shades of responses Dr. Sanjian’s presentation John & Liz Shields Marguerite Hougasian Denny Stavros, Ph. D. by the newspapers. gave a new perspective to the Arminee Shishmanian Haig & Marcia Jamgotchian Charles J. Tateosian The attitudes of the three Karabagh issue as seen through Vatche Soghomonian & Paul Jamushian Joyce Terzian Armenian political parties the eyes of Diasporan Armenians Dr. Jane F. Kardashian Kathy Jenanyan Aram & Lisa Tokatian differed towards the communist and the press. Herman & Kathy Wage Jendian Family Anna Tookoian Da v i d o f Sa ss o u n , Fr o m Pa g e 1 Chaké Der Melkonian-Minassian, Roxie Haydostian Jizmejian Karnig & Mary Torosian Fresno State, David of Sassoun: Frédéric Feydit, Arpiné Supporters Jeanette John Martin M. Tourigian Critical Studies on the Armenian Khatchadourian, Aram Tolegian, Dr. Shant Agajanian Rose Kasimian Lois Varjabedian Epic, edited by former Armenian Vahé Oshagan, and an original Hrant & Alidz Agbabian Tsovinar Kasnakjian Paul Yergat Studies Program Director Dr. poem by Ashough Hovani, all of Mr. & Mrs. K. Alajajian Isgouhi Kassakhian Yergat Packing, Dickran Kouymjian and Prof. whom were originally present at Edward Alexander Marguerite & Grace Kazarian Kirk & Kathy Yergat Barlow Der Mugrdechian, a scholarly symposium held at Marine Arakelians Leo Keoshian, M.D. Archie & Kathy Zakarian current Director of the Program, Fresno State. The symposium had Camille Mugrdechian-Armen Joyce & Bob Kierejczyk Mary Zoryan chronicling the study of Armenia’s been organized by Dr. Kouymjian Pa r t a m i a n , Fr o m Pa g e 3 ASP Ca t a l o g , Fr o m Pa g e 1 most famous folk epic. a year after he established the in eleven countries. Partamian’s The formal launch was marked Armenian Studies Program at The catalog is now available surgery department at Harvard; ultimate goal is to create an by opening statements by Dr. Vida Fresno State, and he saw it as through a link on the Armenian and Raymond Vahan Damadian, “Armenian Empire” with pictures Samiian, Dean of the College of Fresno’s contribution to the Studies Program website, http:// inventor of the MRI machine. to preserve our language, culture, Arts and Humanities and director centennial of its first publication. www.fresnostate.edu/artshum/ In the second half of the and heritage, and to ensure that of The Press, followed by a “David of Sassoun” has armenianstudies/ or by going lecture, Partamian described and the Armenian culture lasts another presentation on “The Armenian become a symbol of Armenian directly to the Library World displayed photos from his self- 100 years. Epic” by Prof. Der Mugrdechian. pride and identity and UNESCO website http://opac.libraryworld. funded, cross-country travels in As controversial as it may Closing remarks were made has included the epic on its list com/opac/home. 2009 and 2012 to document 21st sound, he aims to spread by Prof. Sergio La Porta, Haig of Intangible Cultural Heritage Fascinating print and visual/ century Armenian landmarks knowledge of Armenian culture and Isabel Berberian Professor in 2012, giving it international audiovisual collections have consistent with one of his three by making it “sexier” and more of Armenian Studies at Fresno recognition. come to light during the process criteria: they had to depict the marketable. Furthermore, he is State. Originally the epic was told of cataloging. La Porta was Armenian alphabet, the Armenian working on apps for the iPhone David of Sassoun includes orally and was passed down especially fascinated with a tricolor, and/or Armenian words and iPad to provide the public all essays by Charles Dowsettt, from generation to generation couple of rare finds. “The Arpiar or names in public view. of the information contained in Dickran Kouymjian, Aram Ter- Markarian Collection offers Of the 568 American his books and future discoveries Ghevondian, Earl R. Anderson, Se e Da v i d o f Sa ss o u n p a g e 8 locations, many included street for free. a wonderful window onto the signs, memorials dedicated to Overall, the lecture was varied tastes and interests of a of plays, memoirs, biographies, The Armenian Studies war heroes or Genocide victims, intriguing and eye opening. Many bibliophile, ranging from 19th c. and autobiographies by or on Program also has a complete Armenian churches including in the audience were pleasantly Armenian translations of French William Saroyan. This collection DVD collection of films from Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic surprised by all the contributions classics, to Armenian poetry consists of hundreds of such the Armenian Film Foundation, Church in Fresno, trees dedicated by American-Armenians and published in Buenos Aires, to an books, all generously donated by donated by the late Dr. J. Michael to Genocide victims, cross-stones actively asked questions and almanac produced in New York Col. Carl Mahakian. Hagopian. or khachkars, and much more. purchased Partamian’s books to in 1925, detailing Armenian For the first phase of the plan, The cataloging of the Partamian also briefly learn more. businesses across the country. the Armenian Studies Program Program collection also reveals mentioned his travels to Europe Partamian’s focus on Armenian The collection also contains a has prioritized cataloging the significant support it has and the sites he visited in culture and identity and his pristine copy of Navasart, an ethnographic and compatriotic received from the community Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain, emphasis on positive contributions illustrated literary journal edited works about villages and over the years. The collection Portugal, and Greece. by American-Armenians inspired by Daniel Varoujan and Hagop communities in historic Armenia. will be available soon for use in In all, Partamian has the audience to further research Siruni in Constantinople in 1914, Many of these accounts, written the Armenian Studies Program documented over 1,100 the topics and pay closer attention on the eve of World War I. Only a shortly after the Genocide, are office. identifiable Armenian locations to their surroundings. handful of libraries in the world difficult to come by and are of The Program is appreciative own this publication,” stated La great interest to the local Fresno of all those who have donated Hye Oozh - Saturdays 9:00 AM - Noon Porta. She was very excited to find Armenian community, as well and contributed to the extensive these one-of-a-kind resources, as a larger scholarly community. collection. Because of those 90.7 FM-KFSR now available for the public to Among these works are studies donations and the new cataloging Hye Oozh is 90.7 KFSR’s weekly program dedicated utilize. on Chomaklou, Harput, and project, the Armenian Studies to contemporary and traditional Armenian music and culture. In addition to these uncommon a collection of works and Program is giving back to Current Hye Oozh DJs: finds, other large individual manuscripts on Zeitun, donated a community that has long Tatevik Ekezian • Vartush Mesropyan • Marine Vardanyan collections are being cataloged, by Tilda and Khoren (Davidson) supported it. among these a broad assortment Davidian. Hye Sharzhoom December 2013 Bulbulian’s8 The Fresno Armenians Th e Ke y b o a r d Co n c e r t Se r i e s Republished as eBook by The Press o sp o n s o r e d w i t h t h e r m e n i a n t u d i e s r o g r a m St a f f Re p o r t C - A S P r e s e n t Berge Bulbulian’s The Fresno P -Se r g e i Ba b a y a n a n d Da n i i l Tr i f o n o v Armenians has been republished as an eBook by The Press at California State University, Fr i da y , Ma r c h 7, 2014 • 8:00 PM Fresno, in cooperation with the h e o n c e r t a l l r e s n o t a t e Armenian Studies Program. T C H , F S The Fresno Armenians explores the fascinating journey One of today’s most consummate artists and a Fresno favorite, of Armenians to the San Joaquin Armenian pianist Sergei Babayan returns to the series together Valley and how the community with his protégé, Daniil Trifonov, Gold Medalist at the 2011 thrived. Tchaikovsky International Piano Available at The Press website http://www.thepressatcsufresno. Competition and winner of the 2011 Rubinstein International The Fresno Armenians org/ or by calling 559-278-3056. Piano Competition, for a Da v i d o f Sa ss o u n , Fr o m Pa g e 7 performance of master works for for around a millennium before two pianos. The combination of finally being transcribed and Sergei Babayan’s “phenomenal published by ethnographer and Sergei Babayan priest Garegin Srvantztiants in level of color and imagination” (The American Record Guide) 1874. He transcribed the epic, and Daniil Trifonov’s “scintillating technique and virtuosic as told by a villager named Krpo flair” The( New York Times) results in a most exhilarating from the region of Moush. experience. Daniil Trifonov Scholars believe that the core of the epic hearkens back to when Program: Prokofiev, Suite from Cinderella, Op. 87 (arr. Pletnev) the Arabs ruled Armenia between Rachmaninoff, Suite for two pianos in C Major, Op. 17 the 8th and 10th centuries, although the enigma of the epic is Additional works to be announced that no Armenian literary sources allude to it before 1874, and only Tickets- General: $18 • Senior: $12 • Student: $5 in isolated Arab and Portuguese that the Genocide had caused the For complete information about tickets go to the following website: sources is it briefly mentioned. disruption in the transmission of http://www.keyboardconcerts.com/tickets.aspx This may have been because for the epic to future generations. centuries the most educated and He also noted that the 1939 Hy e Sh a r z h o o m , Fr o m Pa g e 1 to Fresno State’s The Collegian in campus but for the entire student literate of Armenian society were Jubilee Edition created a single, Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, 1979, Dr. Kouymjian understood body and for the Armenian priests whose priority was the canonized version of the epic, Director of the Armenian Studies the immense value of developing community at large.” Bible, while “David of Sassoun” whereas many new variants have Program, was the advisor and a student newspaper. “It was Thirty-five years since was told and retold by the rural recently emerged that have yet to moving force behind the founding important that Armenian students its initial publication, Hye common folk. be fully evaluated. He called for of the paper. have a vehicle of expression, Sharzhoom continues to stay true In 1939, the Armenian Soviet future research on the epic and Hye Sharzhoom has developed a paper of information and to its original purpose, evolving Socialist Republic published stated that David of Sassoun: throughout the years to become commentary, not just for the four to further enhance the reading a “1000th Anniversary Jubilee Critical Studies on the Armenian a cherished publication where or five hundred Armenians on experience and its impact. Edition” of the epic. Scholars Epic is a valuable addition to the audiences on campus, in the edited 65 known variants of the understanding of the epic and community, and around the Hye Sharzhoom’s 35th anniversary! epic and integrated them into one how it has been received. world learn of the dynamic April 2014 official comprehensive edition All of these topics and more activities of the Armenian Studies with all four cycles, putting are covered in depth in Der Program and Armenian Students the epic into modern Eastern Mugrdechian’s and Kouymjian’s Organization and read about the Armenian as well. This has new book, available from The issues important to Armenian We ask our readers to provide us with presented its own challenges, as Press at Fresno State. college students. their comments and feedback the epic was usually recited in David of Sassoun is a welcome The paper you are reading the dialect of the village where it addition to the personal library today would not have been about Hye Sharzhoom over the years. was told. In the variants collected for anyone interested in this as successful if not for the by scholars, the number of times indispensable piece of Armenian tremendous dedication and effort Please email your input to each cycle was repeated varied, heritage and culture. put forth by advisors, editors, and and only one version actually For information about how to writers over the last thirty-five [email protected]. included all four cycles. order the book contact The Press years and without the constant Professor Sergio La Porta through their website http://www. support of its readers. concluded the event with thepressatcsufresno.org/ or by When Hye Sharzhoom was Thank You Donors comments on the epic, noting calling 559-278-3056. launched as an ethnic supplement Edward & Eleanore Aslanian San Francisco George & Mary Atashkarian Moraga David Sarkis Barsamian Pasadena HYE SHARZHOOM Bill & Barbara Bohigian Fresno NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Karl DeKlotz, Fresno Commercial Fresno Kathleen Demerdjian San Leandro Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. Bart & Agnes Hagopian Fresno Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with Paul Jamushian Fresno donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of Kathy Jenanyan Fresno increased mailing costs. Dian Karabian Fresno Dr. Kaspar Keledjian New Freedom, Pennsylvania Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation Mike & Jackie Matosian San Marino of: $ Marilyn Narlian McMains Fresno Barbara & John Mesrobian Sanger Name: in honor of Margaret Sahatdjian Shirin’s birthday A. George & Sona Mishigian Tecumseh, Michigan Address: City: State: Zip: Tamar Mishigian Chicago, Illinois Bertha Mugurdichian Providence, Rhode Island Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Basil & Kathy Perch Visalia Armenian Studies Program Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno California State University, Fresno Cindy Haig Rettig Clovis 5245 N. 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