OCTOBER 24, 2015 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVI, NO. 15, Issue 4409 $ 2.00 NEWS INBRIEF The First English Language in the United States Since 1932 Aleppo Rocket Attacks Attorneys Pleased with European Court Ruling Leave Two STRASBOURG (Public Radio of of the . The judges including the President of the Court, held Armenia) — Human rights lawyers Geoffrey pronounced that Perinçek was within his that “the massacres and deportations suf- Dead and One Injured Robertson QC and Amal Clooney issued a rights to deny the Armenian Genocide, fered by the Armenian people constituted ALEPPO (Armenpress) — Armenians were killed as genocide are self-evident. The a result of rocket attacks by armed terrorist groups Armenian genocide is a clear- in Aleppo’s Nor Keghi district. There is also one ly established historical fact. injured. To deny it is to deny the obvi- The editor of the Aleppo-based Kantsasar week- ous.” The majority of ten ly, Zarmig Boghigian, identified the dead — Vera judges also confirmed “the Giragosian Kentimian and her son Haroutiun massacres and mass deporta- Kentimian. Tavid Der-Nersisian is injured. The bod- tions suffered by the ies were taken and the funeral was to take place on Armenian people at the hands October 17 at St. Mary Church in Aleppo. of the from 1915 onwards” and only dif- From left, Amal Clooney, Geoffrey Robertson and at right, Prof. Payam Akhavan fered in its view that it “has Syrian Armed Forces not authority to make legally binding pronouncements” on Gain Control of statement on the European Court of however, they upheld the truth of the whether these events “can be characterized Aleppo’s Naama Human Rights (ECHR) decision on Genocide. as genocide within the meaning of that October 14 in the case of Perinçek v In a divided opinion, the majority of 10 term under international law”. Heights . The two represented the gov- judges held that the Swiss judgment Said Akhavan in his statement, the court ernment of Armenia. against Perinçek’s denial and minimization “clearly, unanimously, and emphatically ALEPPO (Armenpress) — The Syrian Armed Forces Another attorney, Prof. Payam Akhavan of these events violated his freedom of confirmed the historical truth” of the 1915 took control of Naama Heights near Aleppo. of McGill University in Canada, represented speech under the European Convention on Armenian Genocide. Terrorists of the Islamic State organization suf- the NGO Coalition (Turkish Human Rights Human Rights. However, seven judges, see RULING, page 2 fered huge human and equipment losses. According Association, Truth Justice Memory Centre to Ria-Novosti, Syrian Armed Forces representative and International Institute for Genocide General Ali Mayhub announced that as part of a and Human Rights Studies). Syrian state military operation in the southern The case pitted Dogu Perinçek, a cen- Recognition, Realpolitik and the Ravages of War regions of Aleppo, a number of villages and com- ter-left politician from , against the munities have been liberated, with heavy losses government of Switzerland. At stake was BERLIN — No This in itself is inflicted on opponents. that he objected to the muzzling of what one engaged in By Muriel Mirak-Weissbach highly regrettable efforts to have and will raise cries he called was his free speech by the Special to the Mirror-Spectator Swiss government, which bans the denial the Armenian of protest through- CIS Leaders Sign Genocide offi- out the Diaspora. Military Pact cially recognized — at whatever level and in But there is more at stake than the whatever venue — can suffer under the illu- Armenian issue, narrowly defined. The BURABAY, Kazakhstan (RFE/RL) — The leaders of Former House Speaker sion that it is simply a matter of acknowl- reversal on this resolution occurs in the the countries of the Commonwealth of edging historical facts as truth. It has been, context of the most severe refugee crisis Independent States (CIS) have signed 17 agree- Dennis Hastert to Plead and remains a political football, which is since World War II, a crisis generated by ments, including a statement on combating inter- tossed, carried or kicked according to the the continuing war in and , in national terrorism and an agreement on military Guilty in Sexual Abuse game plans drafted by the coaches of the which the barbaric ISIS hordes threaten to cooperation through 2020. Hush-Money Case opposing teams. Or, as in the case of wipe out an entire civilization. The German The agreements were signed at a summit of CIS Germany, it is punted. Instead of following decision made on the genocide question, leaders — representing Armenia, Azerbaijan, (Reuters) — Former US through on the courageous initiatives being tactical, can be corrected with time. Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and House Speaker Dennis Hastert is expected taken by President Joachim Gauck and the But compromises made in assessing the Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan — on October 16 in the to plead guilty in a hush-money case stem- Bundestag (Parliament) last April, to finally dynamic behind the ISIS onslaught, espe- Kazakh village of Burabay. ming from allegations of sexual misconduct formulate and pass a unified resolution cially regarding the roles played by Turkey Representatives of Moldova, Turkmenistan, and in a deal with prosecutors that could still acknowledging the Genocide, the political and Saudi Arabia, carry strategic implica- Ukraine participated as observers. force him to serve time in prison. leadership has preferred to put the entire tions. At a press conference, Russian President The tentative plea agreement, disclosed issue on hold. see REALPOLITIK, page 3 Vladimir Putin said closer military cooperation is during a brief hearing in federal court necessary because “the situation [in Afghanistan] is in Chicago on Thursday, October 15, would close to becoming critical.” He added that one of mark a dramatic downfall for someone who the goals of Islamist terrorists in Afghanistan is “to once ranked among the most powerful men Tekeyan Cultural Association’s penetrate the Central Asian region.” in the country. The agreement on military cooperation, he said, Hastert, 73, was charged in May with try- 34th Annual Convention in Montreal will furnish a “coordinated response” to that threat. ing to hide large cash transactions as part Putin also praised the CIS as a mechanism for of a payoff scheme and lying about it to MONTREAL – The Tekeyan Cultural Association members to address problems caused by “negative the Federal Bureau of Investigation. By Aram Arkun of the US and Canada (TCA) held its 34th conven- external actors,” such as “uncertainty in the global Prosecutors and defense attorneys did Mirror-Spectator Staff tion October 9 to 11. It was attended by some 30 economy and rising political tensions.” not say what charge he would plead guilty delegates from seven chapters. Story on pages 8–9. CIS leaders agreed that the next CIS summit will to or whether his sentence might include be held in Kyrgyzstan on September 16, 2016. KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO incarceration. Federal prosecutors have accused him of agreeing to pay $3.5 million to an unidenti- fied person from his hometown INSIDE of Yorkville, Ill., to conceal past misconduct. He was a teacher at Yorkville High School in the 1960s and 1970s. see HASTERT, page 7 Audio NEW YORK TIMES PHOTO Visual

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INDEX Arts and Living ...... 10 Armenia ...... 2 From left, current Abaka editor Avedis Bakkalian, Amb. Armen Yeganian, Edmond Y. Community News...... 4 Azadian, Dr. Arshavir Gundjian and longtime Abaka editor Arsen Noubar Mamourian cut Editorial ...... 14 the 40th anniversary cake. Standing immediately to the back is Hovig Gebenlian. Abaka International ...... 3 Former Speaker Dennis Hastert 2 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia AGBU Hosts Conference

Second Festival of On E-Governance in Armenia Armenian Contemporary YEREVAN — On September 29, AGBU Yerevan hosted a conference on Music Dedicated to electronic governance (e-governance) organized by the Delegation of the Genocide Anniversary European Union to Armenia, the YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Second Festival of Embassy of the Republic of Estonia in Armenian Contemporary Music will be dedicated to Armenia and the Tumo Center for the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide Creative Technologies. The conference this year. At the initiative of the Union of Composers was attended by government officials, of Armenia, with the support of the Ministry of representatives of international organi- Culture of the Republic of Armenia, the festival, zations, IT experts and representatives given the title “Khachaturian and Our Times” will be of diasporan organizations, among held from October 20 to 27. many others. According to the Union of Composers of Armenia, The main goal of the conference was during the festival one symphonic and two chamber to raise public awareness about e-gov- concerts will be presented, as well as works of 18 ernance, discuss the next steps in mak- composers. The festival’s opening concert (October ing information and services as user- 20) was held in the Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall friendly and accessible as possible by with music by Khachaturian. The State Youth harmonizing different systems as well Orchestra of Armenia under the direction of chief as finding ways for more active and The conference focused on the results of the e-governance initiatives implemented in conductor and artistic director Sergey Smbatyan will effective involvement of the diaspora Armenia and the key steps for the future development of the field including the cre- perform. in the electronic governance system of ation of an atmosphere of trust. The other two concerts are being held at the Armenia. Komitas Chamber Music Hall on October 22 and 27. “…Electronic governance makes life This year the festival is distinguished by the fact easier for people and it makes it a lot tion as an independent expert,” said system: “The capabilities of this plat- that during three days of concerts many of the works easier to govern the country. It also Ivar Tallo, Founder of e-Governance form are huge and we should think being premiered are dedicated to the 100th anniver- delivers a positive message to the whole Academy, Estonia. about how we can use these capabili- sary of the Armenian Genocide. world that Armenia is getting better. Opening remarks were delivered by ties, how we can consolidate and coor- It’s modernizing. Armenia has built up Vache Gabrielyan, the Deputy Prime dinate our resources both in Armenia a lot of digital resources and now [it] Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the diaspora, to strengthen the Bilateral US-Armenian should start using them. This is not and the Minister of International nation, as well as how we can make this only the Armenian government’s Economic Integration and Reforms; platform accessible to those in the dias- Trade 2014 Totals $153 stance; this is also my personal convic- Vasken Yacoubian, AGBU Central pora, involve the diaspora in e- Million Board member; Priit Governance and thus help Armenia,” Turk, ambassador of said Yacoubian. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — US Ambassador to Estonia to Armenia Among the panelists of the confer- Armenia Richard M. Mills, Jr. answered, at the and Piotr Switalski, ence were Karen Gharslyan, president request of Armenpress, questions referring to the head of the EU of HAIK-AGBU Germany; David Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Delegation to Harutyunyan, chief-of-staff of the and the terms of the United States-Armenia Council Armenia. Republic of Armenia; Raffi Kassarjian, on Trade and Investment created by means of TIFA. The conference chairman of Repat Armenia; Vahe TIFA was signed between the USA and Armenia in focused on the results Keushguerian, chairman of the Washington on May 8 by Armenian Foreign Minister of the e-governance Impact Hub Board of Trustees; Artak Edward Nalbandian and US Trade Representative initiatives implement- Melkonian, senior advisor at UNDP Den Mulani during Armenian President Serge ed in Armenia and the Armenia; Aram Orbelyan, senior part- Sargisian’s visit to Washington. The Council’s highly key steps for future ner at Concern Dialog; Pegor placed members will discuss bilateral trade and development of the Papazian, board member of Tumo investment and related issues and attempt to field, including the Center for Creative Technologies; strengthen the economic ties between the two coun- creation of an atmos- Stepan Petrosyan, advisor to the tries. phere of trust. Minister of Diaspora of the Republic The ambassador declared that American investors Emphasizing the of Armenia; Kristi Raidma, program are already interested in many opportunities in importance of the manager at European Union Armenia. Total bilateral trade (exports plus imports) conference in raising Delegation to Armenia; and Sergey between the United States and Armenia totaled $153 public awareness Tantushian, deputy CEO at IDeA million in 2014. US goods exports to Armenia in Opening remarks at the conference were delivered by about e-governance, Foundation. Hoa-Binh Adjemian, 2014 totaled $56 million and included poultry, Piotr Switalski, head of the European Union Delegation to Yacoubian spoke head of cooperation at European machinery, vehicles, and optic and medical equip- Armenia. about the diaspora’s Union Delegation to Armenia, was the ment. Total US foreign direct investment in Armenia involvement in the host of the conference. was $1 million in 2013. US goods imported from Armenia in 2014 totaled $96 million in 2014 and included aluminum, woven apparel, brandy, dia- monds, and processed fruit and vegetables. Total Armenian foreign direct investment in the Attorneys Pleased with European Court Ruling United States was $1 million in 2013. The ambassador stated that the US remains one of RULING, from page 1 whilst seven stated that “the Armenian (named after the “Ottoman Hitler”) that Armenia’s most vital and important trade partners. Clooney and Robertson said in their genocide is a clearly established historic the European Parliament has character- That is a testament to the two countries’ close his- statement, “We are pleased that the fact,” they said. ized as a ‘xenophobic and racist’ orga- torical ties – economically, politically, and culturally. European Court of Human Rights today Perinçek himself did not deny that nization is itself the most obvious evi- As far as when the US-Armenia Council on Trade endorsed our argument on behalf of the these atrocities did in fact take place, dence of his discriminatory and Investment will begin work, the ambassador Government of Armenia, which inter- but simply denied their characterization motives.” Professor Akhavan regretted revealed that he was hopeful that it would meet in vened in the case between Dogu as “genocide” and blamed the 1.5 moreover, that the majority disregarded mid-November in Yerevan. Perinçek and Switzerland. The decision Armenian victims for their own fate by the Istanbul Penal Court’s finding in is a victory for Armenia. Today the portraying them as “traitors” and the Ergenekon trial that Mr. Perinçek European Court ruled that the appli- “aggressors”. The majority found that had incited hatred and violence against President Sargisian to cant’s freedom of speech should not his statements should not have been Armenians, on the grounds that instead have been restrained because it was not penalized by the Swiss courts, because of relevant excerpts, the NGO Coalition Pay Working Visit to likely to incite violence or racial hatred. they did not pose a threat to Armenians should have produced the full 17,000 Spain Thus Perinçek should not have been in Switzerland. page judgment! prosecuted by the Swiss authority Akhavan noted that in doing so, “the According to Akhavan, “the divided YEREVAN (Armenpress) — President of the Republic because his rant, in the Turkish lan- majority did not give sufficient weight opinion of the Grand Chamber, and the of Armenia Serge Sargisian paid a working visit to guage, would have had no impact at all to the convincing evidence submitted by alarming increase in extremist violence the Kingdom of Spain on October 21 to participate on social harmony and race relations in the NGO Coalition, demonstrating in Turkey, is the clearest indication that in the annual conference of European People’s Party Switzerland.” Perinçek’s racist motives by reference to the question of racist hate speech (EPP) and the extended summit of EPP. The They added that the government of his previous conduct in Turkey, and its against Armenians is far from resolved, Department of Information and Mass Media of the Armenia intervened to correct the lower impact on the vulnerable Armenian and that it will require constant vigi- Republic of Armenia President’s Staff stated that the court’s ruling that had cast doubt on minority that has been subjected to a lance. What is clearly established by the president of the Armenian Republic will meet with the Armenian Genocide. campaign of hate speech and violence.” Judgment however, is unanimity among the president of EPP Joseph Daul within the frame- “As counsel we sought to correct this He emphasized that “this aspect of the all seventeen judges, that the work of the visit. grave error, and the Grand Chamber decision is unfortunate at a time when Armenians did in fact suffer massacres has done so. Today’s judgment did not there is an alarming increase in ultra- and mass deportations at the hands of dispute the fact of the Armenian geno- nationalist hate speech and violence in the Ottoman Empire from 1915 cide: ten judges said the question Turkey. The fact that Mr. Perinçek onwards, irrespective of its legal charac- should not have been addressed at all leads the Talaat Pasha Committee terization one way or another.” S A T U R D A Y , O C T O B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Recognition, Realpolitik and the Ravages of War International News REALPOLITIK, from page 1 that many prefer to leave the camps in ers, Kermani thinks this should not hopes of reaching Germany, where they constitute an invincible foe for the Genocide Resolution Sacrificed on can seek employment and find ade- international community. What is his Nine Arrested in Dink the Altar of Realpolitik quate housing. conclusion? War? Denying that he, as a Murder Der Spiegel, a flagship weekly known Criticism from Germany focused on peace prize winner is a warmonger, he for its scoops and scandals, issued a the timing of her visit. Cem Özdemir, stated: “I am not calling for war. I am ISTANBUL (Public Radio of Armenia) — Prosecutors release on October 16, titled “The head of the Green Party, had earlier simply saying that there is a war — and in Istanbul on Tuesday, October 6, ordered the Bundestag delays Armenian resolu- called on the chancellor to freeze all that we, as the closest neighbors, have arrests of nine people suspected in the murder of tion,” which read: “The controversial contacts with Turkey until after the to react, possibly militarily, yes, but Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink, Daily Bundestag resolution on the Armenian elections, to avoid the appearance of an above all much more determined with Sabah reports. genocide will be put on hold until fur- endorsement, a stance shared by diplomatic and civil society means.” He Dink was one of the founders of the bilingual ther notice.” It reported that the gov- spokesmen of other parties. argued: “For this war can no longer be Turkish-Armenian newspaper and was killed erning coalition parties had “quietly ended in Syria or Iraq alone. It can only outside his office in Istanbul on Jan. 19, 2007. agreed to delay the second and third The Roots of the Crisis: War in be ended by those powers that are Ogun Samast, who was aged 17 years at the time readings of the resolution, which desig- Syria behind the adversary armies and mili- of the killing, was jailed for 23 years in 2011. He nates the massacres by the Young Turk No matter how justified such criti- tias, Iran, Turkey, the Gulf states, claimed he killed Dink for “insulting Turkishness”. government 100 years ago as genocide, cism may be, it misses the main point, Russia and also the West.” An earlier investigation showed that the prosecu- for as long as possible.” Though the for- which is the need to end the war in Kermani’s high profile intervention tors who worked on the case ignored serious allega- eign policy spokesmen of the ruling Syria. Ironically it was a German intel- has exerted an impact on the political tions into the involvement of top police officers in Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social lectual of Iranian descent who actually discourse in Germany. Some may per- the murder. Democrats (SPD) “do not want to issue addressed this, and he did so in a man- haps accuse him, an Iranian, of target- The prosecutors are accused of having ties with the statements on it,” Spiegel writes that ner that was to deliver a healthy shock ing the Saudis out of a regional, geopo- Gülen Movement, a group whose widespread infiltra- according to its information, “what lies to the political class, and not only in litical perspective, but that would be tion of the judiciary and police enabled them to influ- behind this is the consideration that Germany. The same day that Merkel misplaced. Whatever other considera- ence cases or fabricate them for their own interests. one does not want to provoke Ankara was meeting the Turkish leaders, Navid tions he may nurture, the fact is that he unnecessarily at the moment if at the Kermani, a prominent Orientalist and struck a very sensitive political nerve. same time one expects help in the solu- writer, received the Frankfurt book Were powers in the West serious Greek President tion of the refugee crisis.” It recalls that trade peace prize. In his acceptance about ending the war, they would exert Reiterates Support for back in April, when the issue arose, speech, he raised the call for action to pressure to halt the support for the Foreign Minister Frank Walter end the conflict. ISIS terrorists that continues to flow Armenian Cause Steinmeier had declined to speak of His address was extraordinary on from precisely those leading allies, genocide, “out of consideration for many accounts. He devoted the first Saudi Arabia, the Arab Gulf states and ATHENS (Public Radio of Armenia) — On a visit to Ankara.” part to the story of Father Jacques Turkey. If they are to become part of Athens, Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of No one, especially in the US, should Mourad, a Catholic priest leading the the solution to the problem, as the for- Cilicia, had a meeting with Greek President be surprised at such a development, in Syrian parish in Qaryatein whom ISIS eign chancelleries in Europe continue Prokopios Pavlopoulos. light of the tradition of presidential terrorists kidnapped in the Mar Elian to repeat, these regional governments The catholicos praised the organization of the con- dancing around the “g” word every cloister in May. Pater Jacques, whom must be identified first as part of the ference on “Peaceful religious and cultural co-existence April 24. But what lies behind it needs Kermani knew, had succeeded in main- problem. in the Middle East.” He stressed the important role of explication. Spiegel mooted that it was taining peaceful relations among It is no secret that Saudi Arabia, the as a bridge between the East and the West. part of a German-Turkish deal on the Christians and Muslims in his commu- Gulf states and Turkey provide logisti- Aram I hailed the Greek President’s support for refugee crisis, and this was confirmed nity, sheltering hundreds or thousands cal, military, political and ideological the Armenian Cause since the start of his political just days later by Chancellor Angela of war refugees, mostly Muslims, and support to ISIS and Al Nusra, catego- career, which continues during his presidency. Merkel who flew to Ankara for talks keeping the armed militias at bay. In an rized as the “extremist” terrorists; nor President Pavlopoulos, in turn, expressed his with Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu email just days prior to his abduction, is it a secret that the so-called “moder- respect for the Armenian people and reiterated his and President Tayyip Erdogan. The he had written, “The threat posed by ate” terrorists (or “rebels”) still enjoy support for the Armenian Cause. upshot of the talks was the following the ISIS, this sect of terrorists which the backing of the US, among other The president also praised the Armenian communi- agreement: Turkey will act to stem the presents a horrible image of , has Western partners. (Indeed, to under- ty of Greece, which makes n important contribution to flow of refugees into Europe, by arrived in our area.” He then wrote of stand the origins of the barbarism rav- the prosperity and development of the country. expanding camps on its territory, repa- the quandary, whether to stay or flee, aging the entire region means revisit- triating those refugees who are sent and lamented the fact that “the ing the policy of the West beginning Jivan Gasparyan to back after having failed to gain asylum, Christian world” had abandoned them, with the first Iraq war in 1991.) and reinforcing controls on its sea bor- perhaps in hopes of avoiding danger. Perform in ders with Greece. In return Germany “We don’t mean anything to them,” he ISIS and AKP and the EU will provide funds for the wrote. If the Saudis’ Wahabism is recogniz- MOSCOW (Armenpress) — Duduk master Jivan camps (3 billion Euro), restart acces- Kermani developed these two points able as the official ideology of ISIS, the Gasparyan will perform at Moscow Crocus City Hall sion talks for Turkey to join the EU (by at length: first he depicted the conflict compatibility of the AKP’s brand of on November 5. The website calls it Gasparyan’s opening a new “chapter” in the process, in terms of an internal conflict in Islam, Islamism with fantasies of a restored farewell concert. on economic policy) and relax visa whereby ISIS strove to destroy the high Caliphate is not difficult to perceive. Gasparyan was born on October 12, 1928 in the requirements for Turks entering the culture of Islam, illustrated in its phi- Until and unless these open secrets are village of Solak. He started to play duduk from the EU. Ankara would like to eliminate the losophy, poetry and art, and to replace acknowledged as political facts on the age of 6. In 1948 he became a soloist of the visa requirements completely, and it with a “religious fascism.” Then he public record there is little hope that Armenian Song and Dance Popular Ensemble and Davutoglu reportedly demanded addressed the “disinterest of our public the war dynamic can be halted. the Yerevan Philharmonic Orchestra. Turkey be allowed to participate in EU opinion in the end-times-like catastro- Foreign Minister Steinmeier, in fact, He has won four medals at UNESCO worldwide summits. phe” now threatening the region. came away empty handed from talks he competitions (1959, 1962, 1973, and 1980). In Discussion also focused on removing He presented the degeneration of conducted in Tehran and Riyad, paral- 1973 Gasparyan was awarded with the honorary title the causes of the refugee crisis, i.e. deal- Islamic culture as a process over cen- lel to Merkel’s Turkey visit. People’s Artist of Armenia and in 2002 he received ing with the Syrian war. Here Erdogan turies, whereby “absolutely nothing From this perspective, the issue of the WOMEX (World Music Expo) Lifetime said he had discussed the need to “fight exists within the religious culture of Germany’s shelving the genocide res- Achievement Award. terrorism,” by which he meant in par- modern Islam” that is anywhere near olution may be more accurately A professor at the Yerevan State Musical ticular the PKK. Though there was pre- the brilliance of that Islamic culture assessed. Recognition per se is not Conservatory, he has instructed and nurtured many cious little detail reported on this cru- from the medieval times on, which he the issue. Postponement here was performers to professional levels of performance in cial theme, it is the crux of the matter, had studied with passion. symptomatic of the Berlin govern- duduk. He has toured the world several times with a as we shall see below. ment’s unwillingness to confront the small ensemble playing Armenian folk music. Opposition to the deal came from Role of Saudi Arabia Turkish leadership on its duplicitous He has also performed with an international array German as well as Turkish politicians. Most significant is Kermani’s explicit behavior in the conflict. The question of stars. One complaint was that, by visiting identification of the role of Saudi remains: why should Germany, the Ankara two weeks prior to the Turkish Arabia in this degeneration process. leading economic and political force Italian Town of Ivrea elections, Merkel was lending precious Saudi Arabia is the “main sponsor of in Europe, acquiesce to the demands political support to Erdogan and the jihadism,” he said, and Wahabism is the of Turkey? Is this merely a manifesta- Recognizes Armenian AKP. Nazmi Gür, of the Kurdish-backed ideology of ISIS, which has recruited tion of Realpolitik? Or do the Turkish opposition HDP party, accused Merkel youth in the West under the banner of authorities have an ace in the hole Genocide of having made a “dirty deal” with Salafism. that they can threaten to play, as a ROME (Armenpress) — Ivrea City Council of Italy’s Erdogan — “Don’t send us any more Regarding the second point, the sort of blackmail? For example, it is Piedmont Province unanimously recognized the refugees … and you get 3 billion Euro apparent disinterest of the West in the known that there are certain sensitive Armenian Genocide during its October 12 session. for it” — which he called “shameful.” impending catastrophe, Kermani lam- documents from the First World War, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia issued Human rights activists also objected basted the lack of serious political dis- reports by German military to the a statement that by recognizing historical truth, the that, since the Turkish government cussion of the causes of the refugee cri- War Ministry in Berlin regarding the City Council expresses solidarity with the Armenian tramples on the human rights of its sis. “We don’t ask ourselves,” he said, genocide, which were destroyed dur- people and its efforts aimed at defending its unalien- own citizens, it cannot be expected to “why it happens to be Saudi Arabia ing the Second World War bombings able rights. respect those of Syrian refugees. As who is our closest partner in the Middle of Potsdam, but copies of which are The City Council members said they hoped that the New York Times reports carried in the East.” And “we have accommodated kept in the Turkish military archives. European Parliament will take measures to force and elsewhere have detailed, Syrians ourselves to the existence of a new reli- Could it be that the German foreign Turkey, as a candidate for European Union member- are confined to the camps, in minimal gious fascism, whose land area is as ministry’s reluctance to acknowledge ship, to officially recognize and condemn the living standards, and are denied inte- vast as Great Britain and stretches from the genocide, to the present day, Armenian Genocide. gration, whether through jobs or hav- Iran’s borders almost to the stems from fears that this material ing children attend school. In fact one Mediterranean.” Estimating the from the Turkish archives could be reason the refugee flow has increased is strength of ISIS at 30,000 armed fight- made public? 4 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community News

Attorney Mark to Receive Honor for Raising Geragos Heads Suit Genocide Awareness

Against LA School LOS ANGELES — Rockers System Of A Down received a special award for raising aware- Department for ness of the Armenian Genocide, Contact Music reports. ‘Teacher Jails’ The Armenian-American musicians are the recipients of the 2015 Parajanov-Vartanov Institute Award, a prize named after ground- breaking filmmakers Sergei Parajanov and By Mike Szymanski Mikhail Vartanov, who fought persecution for their work in the Soviet Union. LOS ANGELES (LA School Report) ’s band launched the Wake Up — Following up on a months-long threat, high- The Souls Tour earlier this year to mark 100 profile attorneyMark Geragos today slapped LA years since the Armenian Genocide, in which up Unified with a class-action lawsuit, calling for an to 1.5 million citizens were systematically mur- end to the practice of“teacher jails” and asking dered by the nation’s government. for more than $1 billion in damages. The tour culminated with the group’s first The suit was filed in state superior court on ever show in the country on the anniversary of behalf of Rafe Esquith, a well-known teacher who was dismissed in April, as well as thou- sands of other unnamed teachers who have Very Rev. Dajad Yardemian presents the medal to Armen Mantagunian and his been placed in “jail” by the district in recent wife, Araksi. years. Calling LAUSD “a criminal cartel,” the suit charges the district with violations of due process, age discrimina- tion, whistleblower retal- Jubilee Celebration System of a Down iation and wrongful dis- charge — all in a scheme to remove older teach- the start of the atrocity on April 24. ers whose salaries and And Concert “(The) 2015 Parajanov-Vartanov Institute benefits make them Award will honor the Grammy-winning rock more expensive to band System Of A Down for their virtuous com- retain. LOS ANGELES — Under the auspices of the Armenian General Benevolent mitment to justice exemplified by their historic Among the defen- Union’s Western District Committee, Krikor Satamian Theater Group organized a 2015 Wake Up the Souls tour,” a statement Mark Geragos dants named are Jubilee Celebration and Concert from the Parajanov-Vartanov Institute reads. Superintendent Ramon dedicated to composer Armen The prize was handed to the band at a cere- Cortines and his yet-to- By Kevork Keushkerian Mantagunian’s 60 years of creative mony in Los Angeles on October 21. be-chosen successor. Cortines intends to step career. Previous recipients of the award include down in December. Armen Mantagunian was born in Hollywood director Martin Scorsese, who At his downtown office only a few blocks 1934, in Yerevan, Armenia. In 1942, he was admitted to the Choreography Dance accepted the honor in 2014 for his work with from LAUSD headquarters, Geragos accused School in Yerevan and in 1949, he was admitted to the renowned Romanos The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project on the district of engaging in “a pattern and prac- Melikian Music College in Yerevan. the restoration of Parajanov’s 1969 film “The tice of the LA Unified school district basically In 1959, he married Araksi and in 1960, they had a son named Armen Jr. In Color of Pomegranates.” divesting teachers of their benefits once they 1961, he was invited to join the Folk Art Society of the Republic of Soviet reach a certain age. The method by which they Armenia. In 1974, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Glendale, do this is they gin up false charges, they make where he continues to compose and create. false accusations.” Armen Mantagunian has composed two symphonies, a Ballet in 3 acts (Maneh “I’m calling for the complete shutdown of and Aysheh), a sonata for piano, as well as an array of musical albums, arrange- Armenian Cultural Assoc. of LAUSD,” Geragos added. “I think LAUSD is a ments, and orchestrations from 1971-2011. completely corrupt organization. They have This unique celebration took place on Saturday, September 19, at the Paznaz Maine Hosts Fall Dance Auditorium in Pasadena. The masters of ceremony were the professional duo: consigliere lawyers.” PORTLAND, Maine — The Armenian A spokeswoman said the district “has not Nune Avedisian and Haroutune Foudoulian. It started with the opening remarks of Dr. Krikor Simonian, chairman of Cultural Association of Maine is sponsoring a reviewed the lawsuit and therefore has no com- Fall Dance on Saturday, November 7, from 7:30 ment at this time.” Satamian Theater Group, who warmly welcomed everybody. He said that the 80- year-old Maestro still charms everyone with his well-known songs and melodies. to 11 p.m. The purpose of the dance is to This legal action comes a day after the Los Celebrate Armenian Heritage by bringing Angeles Times disclosed that the school board, He concluded his remarks by wishing him a healthy life ahead and continued suc- cess in the service of Armenian cultural preservation. together the Armenian communities of in a closed session this week, voted unani- Southern Maine and sharing Armenian culture mously to start termination proceedings against The first order of business was the awarding of St. Sahag-St. Mesrob medal, bestowed upon him by Karekin II, Catholicos of all Armenians. The Encyclical was with non-Armenians. Hence, the organization Esquith over allegations that went well beyond encourages everyone to attend and all ages are the original charge for removing him from his read by Very Rev. Dajad Yardemian, representing Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. welcome. classroom — quoting a passage from Mark Dancing, food and drinks will be available Twain that referred to “naked” bodies. The Many well-known artists participated in the concert, singing a variety of see CONCERT, page 7 throughout the evening. Food will consist of school district said it would not comment on Armenian hors d’oeuvres, known as mezze. A the accuracy of the story, describing it as a pri- cash bar will also be available. The dance fea- vate personnel matter. Esquith’s attorneys say tures live Armenian music provided by some of they have not been told of the teacher’s immi- New England’s best musicians: Mal Barsamian nent dismissal. on oud, Leon Janikian on clarinet, Kenny “This is another pattern of the school board,” Kalajian on guitar, John Arzigian on vocals, and Geragos said. “They meet in secret, they have Jason Naroian on dumbeg and vocals. The secret documents. They have a secret investiga- dance will take place at the beautiful Avant tion.” Dance and Events Center located at 865 Spring The district’s initial investigation grew to Street in Westbrook, Maine. Tickets for the examine other incidents in Esquith’s past. event are $40 in advance until October 25 and Lawyers for LA Unified have said the investi- $45 after October 25. Tickets for Children 12 gation into his background found evidence of and under are $20. “highly inappropriate conduct involving touch- Table reservations are available when pur- ing of minors” during his time as a district chasing eight tickets. Tickets can be purchased teacher as well as “inappropriate photographs online through Brown Paper Tickets and videos of a sexual nature” on his school (http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2 computer. Geragos said no such evidence has 378118). The link can also be found by visiting ever been presented to him since the teacher the organization’s website at www.armemian- was removed from his classroom. sofmaine.com. To purchase tickets by email “They have an investigative hit squad that Co-hosts Nune Avedisian and Haroutune Foudoulian with honorees and other per- formers. contact the organization at acame@armenian- goes out and basically intimidates and tries to sofmaine.com. extract statements from students that they then For more information, contact Raffi Der see GERAGOS, page 6 Simonian ([email protected]). S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NV/Old Tappan Players Honor Armenian Kin

OLD TAPPAN, N.J. (NorthJersey.com) — Martha kidnapped by a Turkish man, who kept her captive Avedian lost her husband and brother at the hands of for almost two years and used her as a slave. Ottoman Turk soldiers. Parantzem was alone and did not know that her Then she and two of her daughters were rounded mother had survived the death march. up for a march into the Syrian desert. Avedian had witnessed her two other daughters They were just one Armenian family among thou- being beaten and starved before they ultimately died. sands irrevocably scarred by what history has record- But she miraculously made it through the desert and ed as the Armenian Genocide. In all, hundreds of reached Aleppo, Syria. thousands were killed in a series of massacres and After an extended hospital stay, Avedian found a other atrocities. Few survived. job cooking for a wealthy Syrian family. Then she But before Avedian was taken away, she asked a learned that Parantzem was alive and held captive. Kurdish friend to take care of her other daughter, 12- According to the family, Avedian asked a Kurdish year-old Parantzem, who was off at school. friend in Arabkir to rescue Parantzem. Parantzem was the great-grandmother of NV/Old The Kurdish man was able to get a note to Tappan sophomore tennis player Jacqueline Fales. Parantzem, telling her to meet him outside one Parantzem’s incredible story had just begun at that night. So Parantzem climbed out her window and point. A century later, it still lives on through her escaped on the back of the man’s horse. She hid great-granddaughter. with him for a day or two before he brought her to “I’ve heard the story a lot,” Fales said. “My grand- Syria and reunited her with her mother. mother and my mother have been telling it since I Ema Bandazian, left, Jacqueline Fales and Gaby and Kristina Bedrosian tell During Parantzem’s subsequent five years in Syria, was little. They tell it at family gatherings because it’s of ancestors killed in the Armenian Genocide. pictures of Armenian survivors were sent to others sur- a huge part of our history. vivors in the United States. A complete stranger by the “They want to make sure we don’t forget.” name of Arsen Chilengarian saw Parantzem’s picture That history is strong with the NV/Old Tappan tennis Stories like Parantzem’s are common among Armenian and fell in love. He sent money for Parantzem to come to team (9-4), which counts four Armenian-Americans as mem- families. They range from horrific to uplifting, from hopeless America, along with a marriage proposal. bers this year: Fales (third singles), Ema Bandazian (second to courageous. There are countless tales of death and many Five months later, Parantzem arrived by steamship in doubles) and sisters Gaby Bedrosian (second singles) and of survival. Massachusetts and accepted his offer. She lived there until Kristina Bedrosian (team manager). In 1915, Armenians living on their ancestral lands in what 1998, when she died at the age of 86. Fales was promoted to third singles earlier this season is modern day Turkey – then part of the Ottoman Empire – The Chilengarians had three children, one of whom was from second doubles and has lost only once for the Golden were systematically killed by the Turks. Estimates range from Fales’ grandmother. Knights, who are ranked ninth in The Record girls tennis 800,000 to 1.5 million deaths during World War I, the latter “The whole thing is amazing,” Fales said. “Thinking your Top 20. figure accounting for roughly 75 percent of the ethnic parents and siblings have all died and having the courage to Each family has its story. Armenian population. keep going. It’s just crazy.” The girls carry their ancestors’ legacy with them, especial- Men were executed or died in forced labor camps. Women This summer, Fales and eight of her family members took ly with this year marking the 100th anniversary of the died mostly on death marches into the desert due to exhaus- a 10-day trip to Armenia. During the trip, Fales was able to Armenian Genocide. It began on April 24, 1915, a day tion, exposure, starvation and beatings. visit the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Armenia’s capital remembered each year as Armenian Martyrs Day. After the genocide, Armenians spread throughout the city of Yerevan. Golden Knights coach Brook Zelcer said there’s always world. Fales said that Armenians around the world have two mot- been a “strong Armenian presence” in the program. And girls like Fales, Bandazian and the Bedrosian sisters tos: “1915, Never Again” and “Never Forget.” She plans to “I’m not sure why we’ve had so many Armenians, but I make sure their family’s stories continue to be told. help make sure these words are carried out. think it’s really cool,” said Zelcer, whose own father is an For Fales’ great-grandmother, Parantzem, avoiding the “All of us are definitely going to tell those stories our own Auschwitz survivor. “All the girls are very aware and proud death march was just the beginning. kids,” Fales said. “So they’ll always be remembered … never of their heritage.” After Parantzem discovered her family was gone, she was forgotten.”

! Peter Palandjian to Discuss Real A Special Tekeyan “Soccer” Movie Night featuring... Estate at Men’s Club Meeting Christiano Ronaldo & Henrikh Mkhitaryan WATERTOWN — On Monday, November 2, from the Harvard Business School. Peter Palandjian CEO of Intercontinental The social hour starts with mezza, at 6:15 Join us at Michigan’s premier indoor soccer arena, Ultimate Soccer, to enjoy and be inspired by the stories of two great atheletes; Henrikh Real Estate Corporation, will be the speaker p.m. followed by a complete kheyma and los Mkhitaryan and Christiano Renaldo. at the St. James Men’s Club and the topic will kebab dinner at 7 p.m. The dinner meeting First, enjoy a short film on highlights from the career of professional be real estate. will be at the St. James Armenian Church, Armenian footballer Henrikh Mkhitaryan—Armenia’s all time top Palandjian oversees the affiliated goal scorer since his debut in January 2007. He has been chosen Intercontinental operating companies, with “Armenian Footballer of the Year” five times. primary responsibility for strategic planning Then we will screen a documentary “The World at his Feet” on soccer player Christiano Ronaldo who made his international debut and direction of all company activities. for Portugal in August 2003, at the age of 18. He has since been Palandjian is a member of Intercontinental’s capped over 100 times and has participated in 6 major tournaments: Investment and Executive Committees. three UEFA European Championships (2004, 2008 and 2012) and Prior to joining Intercontinental in 1993, Chrisano Ronaldo! three FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010 and 2014). Ronaldo is the first Palandjian worked as the assistant to the Portuguese player to reach 50 international goals, making him Portu- gal's top goal-scorer of all time as well as the country's top scorer in CEO of Staples, Inc. and as an associate con- the European Championship with 6 goals. He scored his first interna- sultant with Bain & Company. tional goal in the opening game of Euro 2004 against Greece, and Palandjian is a member of the Pension Real helped Portugal reach the final. He took over captaincy in July 2008, Estate Association (PREA) and the National and he led Portugal to the semi-finals at Euro 2012, finishing the competition as joint-top scorer in the process. In November 2014, Association of Real Estate Investment Ronaldo became the all-time top scorer in the UEFA European Managers (NAREIM). He has also been active Championship (including qualifying) with 23 goals. on a number of corporate and not-for-profit We would like to extend special thanks to George Derderian, Jr., boards. He has served as a board member of for the use of Ultimate Soccer Arenas several institutions including: co-chair of the Board of Overseers of the Boston Symphony "VJ`1@!(@.1 :`7:J! Orchestra; Board of Overseers for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston; Dana Farber Cancer

Open to the public—$5/person Institute; the International Tennis Hall of Refreshments are available Friday, November 13—doors open 7 pm Fame; American Friends of the Yitzhak Rabin Center; the New England Chapter of the and can be purchased in Movie begins at 7:30 pm sharp the first floor Arena Grill & National Association of Industrial and Office Café and can be brought at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas Properties (NAIOP); O’Neill and Associates; into our meeting room. 867 South Boulevard., Pontiac MI 48341 Leader Bank; Town of Belmont (MA) Board of Wine and Spirits also (248) 648-7000 Retirement; and the Taubman Center at available on second level. follow the signs at main entrance to conference room Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. Peter Palandjian for more information call Hagop at (248) 302-7576 Palandjian works on behalf of Harvard University as a volunteer undergraduate !%JR%&`:1%VR&``QI& .V%V&V0VJ %&%%]]Q` & .V&2V@V7:J&>6]QJ%Q`&:&2V:H.V`?&]`Q$`:I&& admissions interviewer. He was a two-time Charles Mosesian Cultural and Youth Center, supporng schools in Armenia and Karabagh& Harvard Captain and a world-ranked tennis Keljik Hall. player on the ATP tour. Palandjian earned his The program is open to the public and BA from Harvard University and his MBA women are welcome. 6 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS DC Global Leadership Conference Urges Public Diplomacy

WASHINGTON — On Wednesday, October 14, Armenian Assembly Public Affairs Associate Danielle Saroyan attended the Global Leadership in Public Diplomacy summit hosted by the University of Southern California Center on Public Diplomacy at the US Institute of Peace in Washington, DC. Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Richard Stengel was the keynote speaker. He discussed the impor- tance of using public diplomacy today and implementing “soft power” in hard places. The summit continued with conversations on the topics of advancing international advoca- cy in the digital age, the future of cultural diplomacy, public diplomacy in congress, Former U.S. Representative Howard Berman (D- bridging the study-practice gap, and the next CA, 1983-2013) and Armenian Assembly Public frontiers of public diplomacy incorporating Affairs Associate Danielle Saroyan technology and talent. Keynote Speaker Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy & Public Affairs Richard Stengel

Among the panelists were former US Rep. Politically Homeless: Five-Year Odyssey Howard Berman (D-CA, 1983-2013) and for- mer Mexican Ambassador to the US Arturo Across Three Continents Sarukhán (2007-2013). Berman served as House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman LOS ANGELES — Award-winning author, and medical trips only. Her affiliation with the in 2010 and was instrumental in the Mary Terzian’s second book, Politically United Nations and language proficiency paved Armenian Genocide Resolution bill’s adop- Homeless – a Five-Year Odyssey Across Three the way for re-assignment in Leopoldville, tion. Saroyan thanked Berman for his efforts Continents, was published by Author House in Congo, where civil war was rampant. According on behalf of the Armenian American commu- July. It is the story of every child born out- to Kirkus reviews, “…Terzian’s exploration of nity. She also spoke with Sarukhán who, like side his/her homeland. Whether they are her expatriate status in Africa raises questions her, is a descendant of an Armenian Genocide called anchor or passport babies, or birthright about what it means to have a home country – survivor. Sarukhán’s grandmother fled citizens, they belong to a phantom populace or even a home.” to Thessaloniki, Greece during the Armenian growing up with a split identity, due to their After a five-year itinerant and tumultuous Former Mexican Ambassador to the U.S. Arturo Genocide, then moved to Venice, where she allegiance to immigrant parents and to their life, including a flight back to Leopoldville Sarukhán (2007-2013) and Armenian Assembly met and later married Artur Sarukhanian, his actual country of residence. Even if granted cit- aboard a plane loaded with mercenaries, Public Affairs Associate Danielle Saroyan grandfather. Together, they left Italy for izenship, they remain unsure of their genuine Terzian’s limited options led her to legal immi- Mexico, where the ambassador’s parents met. nationality. “Where do I really belong?” leads to gration to the United States, far beyond her an unwarranted guilt feeling. expectations. Born in Cairo to immigrant parents who Kirkus reviews has classified Politically Telephone (617) 924-7400 were escapees from the Armenian genocide, Homeless... as “An often charming memoir that Terzian grew up in her ethnic community. Her intertwines personal and political histories.” Aram Bedrosian quest for independence and her need for a Her books are available on Amazon.com and sense of belonging led her to an uncommon similar digital stores in e-book format and global search to find a venue where she could paperback. They are also sold in regular book- Funeral Home, Inc. feel at home and fulfill her aspirations as a stores. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 writer. Terzian’s future in Egypt was clouded Terzian has lived in California for the last 45 when Arabic became the official language of years. She classifies herself as an “imported MARION BEDROSIAN the country to be taught in all schools. A grad- American.” She is a member of Writers’ Club 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN uate of an English high school, she was barely of Whittier and blogs athttps://whittierwrit- WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN conversant in Arabic. Armenia was a phantom ers.wordpress.com/author/maryterzian. Her land behind the iron curtain. Traveling articles on line can be located with search word abroad from Egypt was restrained to business Mary Terzian. DENNIS M. DEVENEY & SONS Sts. Vartanantz Bazaar to Feature Music, Cemetery Monuments Dancing and Backgammon Tournament Specializing in CHELMSFORD, Mass. — Saints Vartanantz well as raffles, silent auctions and games for the Armenian Designs and Lettering Armenian Church of Chelmsford will host its kids. 701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543 Annual Bazaar and Foods Festival on Friday, Special highlights of this year’s bazaar will a November 20 and Saturday, November 21, 11 backgammon tournament, Saturday, 2-4 p.m., (781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com a.m. to 8 p.m. Lunch and Dinner are served all with a cash prize for the winner, and live day from noon until 7 p.m. Traditional Armenian music and dancing featuring the Armenian meals will be served as well as Jason Naroian Ensemble, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Armenian desserts, pickled goods and savory The bazaar will take place at Sts. Vartanantz pastries. In addition to the food fair items, the Church, Kazanjian Memorial Pavilion, 180 Old bazaar will feature a wide range of arts and Westford Road. For more information, email craft, jewelry, and white elephant booths as Lori at [email protected]. GiragosianF UNERAL H OME James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Geragos Heads Suit Against LA School Department Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors GERAGOS, from page 6 ered up evidence in the Miramonte school scan- 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 use for kangaroo court-style proceedings in dal. He referred to the superintendent as www.giragosianfuneralhome.com order to get people to resign so they don’t vest “crotch-grabbing Cortines,” a reference to alle- in their retirement benefits,” Geragos said. gations made against Cortines in a sexual har- Esquith, 61, has said he would like to return rasment lawsuit. to teaching and has faced health issues due to Geragos said to expect several other lawsuits stress over his being assigned to “teacher jail” soon from “people intimated, coerced and where he had to sit during the school day frightened by the investigative hit squad.” rather than be in his classroom. He called the off-site location of where “We get 20, 30, some days as many as 50 teachers are housed, “Something that looks teachers who have complained about this, and like an old Soviet gulag where teachers have it’s the same pattern over and over again,” to go each day, and taxpayers should see this Geragos said. as some kind of an affront to put teachers Geragos reviewed a litany of accusations somewhere that looks like a place where against LA Unified, including rehiring “a Costco stores sausages. You can’t warehouse lawyer who said it’s OK for an eighth grader to people like this.” consent to sex” and hiring a law firm that cov- S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Former House Speaker Hastert to Plead Guilty in Sexual Abuse Hush-Money Case ASA 5th Annual HASTERT, from page 1 seeking comment about whether the firm he would set a trial date. That person has not surfaced publicly, but would hire a new shop to work on the Turkey Defense attorney Amy Richardson, who is not Journalist Internship anonymous law enforcement sources have told account, according to Roll Call. involved in Hastert’s case but often handles Program Set for 2016 several media outlets that Hastert was trying to His alma mater, Wheaton College, a private financial fraud matters, said it is unlikely cover up sexual abuse of a male student when Christian liberal arts school in Hastert will avoid jail time if he pleads guilty to WARWICK, RI; At its annual convention he worked as a high school teacher and suburban Chicago, removed his name from a a charge of “structuring” cash withdrawals to in June 2015, the Board of Trustees of the wrestling coach. policy center. avoid detection by banking officials. Armenian Students’ Association of America, Hastert’s agreement, to change his plea to As Speaker of the US House, in October of Such a plea could, however, avoid the public Inc. (ASA Inc) announced it is again spon- guilty from not guilty in the case, was expected 2000, Dennis Hastert killed the Armenian release of potentially embarrassing information soring two journalism internships in part- to be submitted to US District Judge Thomas Genocide Resolution moments before its adop- about the case. nership with the Armenian Weekly and the Durkin on Monday, October 19, attorneys for tion. “One of the best side effects of taking the Armenian Mirror-Spectator. Hastert said. Hastert had announced he would support the plea is that material regarding reported sexual In making the announcement, Brian Hastert has not spoken publicly since his Armenian Genocide resolution. The resolution, abuse will not come out,” said Richardson, of Assadourian, Chairman of the ASA Inc. indictment, but Durkin set October 28 as the vehemently opposed by Turkey, had passed the the firm Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis. Board of Trustees remarked that “The ASA date for him to change his plea. Human Rights Subcommittee of the House and Richardson said Hastert also may decide to is proud to once again make these intern- Hastert was the longest-serving Republican the International Relations Committee but waive a sentencing hearing, which otherwise ships available and to continue our mission speaker, leading the House for eight years Hastert, although first supporting it, withdrew would allow people to talk about his past behav- begun 105 years ago of providing financial before leaving Congress in 2007 and becoming the resolution on the eve of the full House vote. ior, both good and bad. assistance and professional mentoring to a lobbyist. He explained this by saying that he had According to the indictment, Hastert with- qualified students of Armenian heritage.” After his indictment, Hastert resigned from received a letter from president Bill Clinton ask- drew $1.7 million in cash from his bank Participants in the six week internship the Dickstein Shapiro lobbying firm in ing him to withdraw it, because it would harm accounts from 2010 to 2014. He is charged program will receive a weekly stipend of Washington, D.C., and from the boards of U.S. interests. with structuring $952,000 of the withdrawals, $150. Interns will work either under the exchange operator CME Group Inc and REX A September 2005 article in Vanity Fair taking the funds out in increments of under supervision of Nanore Barsoumian, editor American Resources Corp . Hastert’s foreign revealed that during her work, former FBI $10,000 to evade a requirement that banks of the Armenian Weekly or Alin K. government client, Turkey, paid Dickstein translator Sibel Edmonds had heard Turkish report large cash transactions. Gregorian, editor of the Armenian Mirror- $241,000 between August 2014 and December wiretap targets boast of covert relations with Hastert then told the FBI that he was keep- Spectator. The offices of both newspapers 2014, through the firm of former Rep. Richard Hastert. ing the cash for himself, which the indictment are located in Watertown, Massachusetts. A. Gephardt, D-Mo., according to the docu- Lawyers for both sides said in September said was a false statement. “The Internship provides a valuable ments filed with the Justice Department under they were negotiating a plea deal to keep the Each of the charges carries a possible maxi- opportunity for students of Armenian her- the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). case from going to trial. Durkin had asked both mum sentence of five years in prison and a itage to have hands-on experience as a mem- The Gephardt Group did not return a request sides to bring him an agreement this week, or $250,000 fine. ber of the editorial staff,” noted Dr. Michael G. Mensoian, a member of the ASA Inc Board of Trustees who oversees the pro- gram. “The Armenian Weekly and the Armenian Mirror-Spectator are two of the leading English language newspapers in the United States and Canada keeping our com- munity informed of developments locally as well as in Armenia and the Diaspora through their print and online editions.” Applications for the ASA Inc Journalism Internship are now available and may be downloaded at http://www.asainc.org. Applications must be submitted no later than Friday May 20, 2016. Candidates must have completed at least their sophomore year of college by May 2016. Currently enrolled graduate students are also eligible. Since its establishment 105 years ago the Armenian Students’ Association of America, Inc. has encouraged the educa- tional pursuits of Armenians in the United States by providing financial assistance in the form of scholarship grants, profession- al opportunities through internships, and fellowship through social and educational activities. Jubilee Celebration And Concert CONCERT, from page 1 Mantagunian’s famous songs and playing his sweet melodies. Pianist Armen Aharonian and violinist Merujan Markarian mesmerized the audience with their breathtaking performances. Some of the songs were accompanied by recita- tions, while others were augmented by dances performed by the Zvartnots Dance Ensemble. Thus, the evening proved to be an excellent musical extravaganza, well-orchestrated by a truly professional group of performing artists. Throughout the ceremony, several medals were presented to the honoree by the govern- ment of Armenia. The Krikor Naregatsi Medal was awarded by the Ministry of Culture, the Komitas Medal was awarded by the Ministry of the Diaspora, and a letter of appreciation was sent by Aram Satian, the president of the Union of Composers of Armenia. Furthermore, a commendation from the City of Glendale was presented by Mayor Ara Najarian. The Armenian General Benevolent Union also presented a medal, while its troupe of resident actors, the Satamian Theater Group, presented a plaque. Touched by all these honors bestowed upon him, Mantagunian took to the podium at the end of the concert and warmly thanked every- one involved in the organization of this once in a lifetime celebration, the memory of which will long linger in the hearts and souls of the audi- ence. 8 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Tekeyan Cultural Association’s 34th Annual Support for Leadership and Insightful Projects Ahead

MONTREAL — The weekend began with a manti dinner at the Tekeyan Armenian Cultural Center in the Montreal suburb of Ville Saint-Laurent. On October 10, the delegates met in the Tekeyan Center to begin their formal work. After words of greet- ing from the head of the local TCA host chapter, Arto Berdge Manoukian, the delegates were registered, and a secretary was selected. Nominating committee and resolutions committees were formed. TCA Central Board chairman Dr. Haroutiun Arzoumanian pre- sented a concise report on the developments in the most impor- tant issue of the year following the last convention (July 2014 to

KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO

Delegates to the Tekeyan Cultural Association’s 34th Convention

tributed in 2014 to teachers and workers in schools bearing the Armenian diocese, the establishment and development of the Tekeyan name in Armenia and Artsakh. All money raised for this Armenian General Benevolent Union’s Montreal school, and the project is distributed, with administrative expenses being borne channeling of aid to Armenia after the 1988 earthquake and by the TCA or raised through events of TCA chapters. The funds independence. It helps today in organizing the community’s posi- distributed have a positive psychological effect on the teachers, tion on issues like the Armenian Genocide centennial. and in particular, support of the school located in Berdzor, in the Gundjian announced the birth of abakanews.org, the only Lachin corridor, is strategically important for Armenia’s future. trilingual Armenian website providing immediate access to news George Mandossian and Panig Keshishian presented reports on Armenia and Armenians throughout the world. He recalled on the closing of the Dickranian School in detail in the after- past supporters of Abaka, including Alex Manoogian, Vahe Ketli, noon session. In addition to this, the possible initiation of vari- Yervant Papazian, Onnig Balian, Mgrdich Ghazarian and Vahan ous educational projects or institutions in areas of Los Angeles Kochunian, as well as numerous present supporters. with fairly dense Armenian populations was discussed by the del- Gundjian gave special recognition to Arzoumanian for his all egates. The TCA Central Board established a committee to study his contributions to Abaka over the decades. He was appointed Dr. Arshavir Gundjian at the podium the feasibility of such endeavors. honorary editor for life of Abaka. The use and needs of the TCA centers in various cities, includ- Yeganian stated that publishing an Armenian paper like Abaka ing Altadena, California’s Beshgeturian Center, and those in in the diaspora is an act of double heroism. He also spoke about September 2015), the crisis which led to the closing of the TCA Montreal, New Jersey, and , were discussed. Information the 2,797th anniversary of Yerevan, which is one of the oldest Arshag Dickranian School of Los Angeles at the end of last June. was provided on two buildings connected with TCA in Yerevan. surviving cities in the world. He concluded by giving Declining enrollment combined with financial difficulties led to TCA financial reports were discussed, as well as the issues con- Arzoumanian the Mayreni Tesban (“Homeland Ambassador”) frequent, often weekly, CB meetings. In the end, the school prop- nected with the sale of the Dickranian School. medal in the name of Hranoush Hakobyan, the head of the erty had to be sold in order to pay off the school’s debts and to The convention decided to reanimate the TCA Board of plan alternative educational projects. Administrators in order to continue the Sponsor A Teacher pro- KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO Michael S. Norehad, a founding partner of Game Plan ject, coordinate more inter-chapter cultural activities and Financial Advisors, and manager of TCA’s investment funds, strengthen local chapters. The three Central Board members

KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO elected at last year’s conven- tion to one-year terms, namely, Panig Keshishian, Kevork Keushkerian and Arto Manoukian, were reelected this year to their positions. It was decided that the Central Board would create a social media task force. The Dicran Simsarian Trophy for the most active TCA branch this year was awarded to Los Angeles. The formal meeting concluded with the decision to hold the Amb. Yeganian, left, bestows Dr. Haroutiun Arzoomanian with the next convention in Los Mayreni Tesban Medal from the Ministry of Diaspora of the Angeles. The TCA Central Republic of Armenia Board held its own meeting in the afternoon after the dele- gates concluded their session. KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO Celebration of 40th Anniversary of Abaka During the evening of Delegates meeting at the TCA 34th Convention October 10, several hundred guests, including the TCA del- egates, participated in a ban- attended the convention from Cleveland, Ohio, in order to report quet at the TCA Center celebrating the 40th anniversary of the on the present status of TCA investments, as well as to provide Canadian-Armenian trilingual weekly newspaper Abaka, and the recommendations for the future. TCA Central Board Treasurer establishment of its new website, abakanews.org. Abaka began Maro Bedrosian introduced Norehad, and explained that he had publication on September 13, 1975, founded by the efforts of Dr. managed the TCA portfolio since 2004, providing good financial Arshavir Gundjian, Edmond Y. Azadian, Arsen Noubar returns and maintaining fluid communications with the organi- Mamourian, Dr. Haroutiun Arzoumanian, Dr. Vahe Ketli and zation. Norehad answered questions from the delegates after his Vartouhi Balian. At first only published in Armenian, after three presentation. years it also included English and French sections. The TCA Central Board and individual chapters presented The banquet was held under the aegis of the Primate of the reports on their activities over the last year. In addition, the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Canada Bishop Abgar activities of the two TCA theater groups, Hay Pem in Montreal Hovakimyan, and Ambassador of Armenia to Canada Armen and Mher Megerdchian in New Jersey, and the weekly newspa- Yeganian. Silva Amadouni-Tokatlian was the master of cere- per Abaka were discussed. monies. She introduced Gundjian, who spoke on behalf of the Antoine Bazarbashian receiving award for years of service to The Sponsor A Teacher Project’s importance and the need to founders of Abaka. He explained how the paper supported the TCA from Dr. Arshavir Gundjian at the podium promote it actively were stressed. More than $42,000 US was dis- Armenian Church and the establishment of the Canadian- S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Convention in Montreal

KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO Ministry of the Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia. As the Canadian Primate was traveling, his speech of blessings was read by Fr. Vazken Boyadjian, pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Montreal. The Primate wrote that Abaka has always been a healthy means of communication in the community, and a bridge to Armenia and other diaspora com- munities. Always faithful to Armenia and the Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, it created a future. In turn, Archbishop Hovakimyan wished it a long and fruitful life. Hagop Vartivarian then congratulated the newspaper as head of the Armenian Democratic Liberal (ADL) Press Committee, and pointed out that in its early years it regularly provided infor- mation on the activities and achievements of Soviet Armenia and the Mother See of Echmiadzin as well as on the Armenian General Benevolent Union, and, naturally, its publishers, the ADL Party and the TCA. He said that it now enters a new stage in its life, in keeping with the demands of modern technology and society, and will serve as an example to other ADL newspa- pers throughout the world. Arzoumanian presented the Simsarian Trophy formally to the Los Angeles TCA branch. Gundjian then honored a veteran TCA member, Antoine KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO Bazarbashian, for his decades of service to the Edmond Y. Azadian speaking at the October 11 book presenta- organization. He said, “I tion event. Nora Ipekian Azadian reciting Tekeyan’s poetry consider him to be my brother,” as he was the first person Gundjian KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO met when he came to the US, and the doors of his home were always open to him. A special plaque was given to Bazarbashian as founder of the Philadelphia TCA chapter. A PowerPoint preseta- tion on the history of Abaka followed, after which a special anniver- sary cake was cut and distributed to the guests. Spidey (Bedros Akkelian) performing The evening ended with the entertaining show provided by magician and hypnotist Spidey (Bedo Akkelian). Spidey switched back and forth from English to flu- ent Armenian during his act, and even incorporated issues of Abaka physically in one trick. Tekeyan Publications Feted Hagop Vartivarian speaking The convention concluded with a special Canadian Thanksgiving luncheon at the TCA Center, followed by presen- tations on books recently published by TCA. Berj Kokorian said, he felt one should never give up hope. After all, a new gen- served as master of ceremonies. Arzoumanian lauded eration of Armenian writers sprung up even after the destruc- Berj Kokorian serving as master of ceremonies on October 11 Vartivarian’s new 396-page book, Travelers on the Road of the tion of the Armenian Genocide. Great Dream, which is the first volume in an Armenian-language Vartivarian intended his Travelers series to pay tribute to the series, and contains many illustrations. It primarily focuses on ADL activists and leaders of the past who established the first in the English-speaking world. the Armenagan political party and its struggles, providing revolutionary Armenian political party, based on democratic and Edmond Y. Azadian, who wrote several chapters in the bilin- biographies of many of its leaders. It also has a section on the liberal principles. A comprehensive history of the ADLP has been gual volume, took the stage to speak about this and two other Armenian People’s Party. lacking for many years. Vartivarian intended to collect the docu- books. First, he mentioned his own book, Perspectives arméni- Vartivarian recalled that his teacher Vahe Vahian had predict- mentation on the history of the party, scattered because of the ennes: Context géopolitiques, 2003-2013, published by Editions ed, while Vartivarian was his student, that Armenian-language lack of a comprehensive central archive. The projected six-vol- Sigest in France as pertinent to the Abaka anniversary. It con- writers would disappear in a few decades, and indeed this seems ume series will be a resource for historians in the Republic of tains 100 articles, all translated into French for Abaka over the to be what is happening in the diaspora now. Yet, Vartivarian Armenia, and a guide for new members, especially youth who years. Azadian paid tribute to the translator, Nicole Papazian, who is a third-generation contributor to the ADL press, follow- KEVORK TOROSIAN PHOTO will join the party in the future. Vartivarian thanked ing the examples of her grandfather Hagop Papazian and father veteran party members who Yervant Papazian, a former editor of Abaka. Abaka is the only provided him with important place Azadian’s articles are published in French. sources, his editor, Dr. Vatche Secondly, Azadian dwelled on Tekeyan’s poetry, and its mean- Ghazarian, and Baydzig ing. The two books he helped publish recently have two different Kalaydjian for making neces- audiences and goals. The Armenian-language Vahan Tekeyan: sary corrections. Panasdeghdzut’iunneru hadendir (Yerevan, 2012) in the Aram Arkun spoke in , is directed at readers and intellectuals in English on the significance of Armenia because Tekeyan is not very well known there yet a new translation of Vahan deserves to be recognized as a national poet. The second work, Tekeyan’s poems, accompa- as mentioned above, is bilingual. Azadian’s introduction therein nied by several essays on the is directed to non-Armenian speakers in order to bring Tekeyan latter’s life and works. The to the attention of literary circles. bilingual volume, Vahan Archbishop Nareg Alemezian, Prelate of , made a sur- Tekeyan: Selected Poems prise appearance, and offered impromptu remarks praising the (translated by Gerald Papasian work of the Tekeyan Cultural Association. Alemezian is a gradu- and John Papasian) and edited ate of the Tekeyan School in Beirut, Lebanon. by Edmond Y. Azadian and The highlight of the literary program was Nora Azadian’s Gerald Papasian (see Arkun’s recitations. She has specialized in reciting Tekeyan’s poems, hav- August 2, 2014 review in the ing been trained by the poet himself. Her recitation of three of Mirror-Spectator), bears his poems was greeted with a standing ovation by the audience. important personal direct tes- An exhibit of books recently published by TCA was available timony concerning Tekeyan for guests to peruse after the formal talks concluded. The pro- from Nora Ipekian Azadian ceeds from the sales of books were donated by the authors to (additionally including a por- the TCA Montreal chapter. trait of Tekeyan by her on the Additionally, on October 11, a special requiem service was held Simsarian Trophy presented by Arto Manoogian to Panos Keshishian, representing the Los Angeles front cover), and is another in the St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Outremont to TCA chapter step toward making this commemorate the 70th anniversary of the death of Vahan important poet better known Tekeyan, as well as deceased TCA members. 10 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Lark Musical Society Demoyan to Speak To Bestow St. Nerses On Armenian Shnorhali Medal to Athletes in Joe and Joyce Stein Ottoman Empire

GLENDALE — The Lark Musical ARLINGTON, Mass. — From the highest posi- Society will honor philanthropists Joe tions in the government to various professions, and Joyce Stein at the Society’s annual as well as the arts and architecture, Armenians fundraiser for their generous contribu- made major contributions to the growth and tions to the Society throughout the years. development of the Ottoman Empire. Among the The event will again be hosted by Lark’s least known and overlooked aspects are sports Honorary Chairman and LA’s dean of and physical education prior to the Armenian public relations Carl Terzian. The Genocide. fundraiser will be held at the Jonathan The latter two will be the topic of discussion Club in downtown Los Angeles, on Tuesday, November 3, at 7:30 p.m. by Dr. on November 1. Hayk Demoyan, director of the Armenian “We are delighted to honor Joe and Joyce Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI), in a lecture Stein,” said Lark Chairman of the Board titled “Armenian Sports and Physical Education Andy Torosyan. “They are true humanitari- in the Ottoman Empire: Between Patriotism and ans, having raised millions of dollars for scholarships for Armenian students and for supporting the arts and music.” Joyce Philibosian Stein is an ex-officio member of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) Board of Directors, trustee of the Stephen Philibosian Foundation, and Life Trustee and ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees for Haigazian University. Joe Stein represents AMAA in the United Armenian Fund and is involved in numer- ous other Armenian organizations and Hayk Demoyan projects. The couple reside in Indian Wells and continue to actively support and volunteer for their beloved Armenian Competitive Nationalism” at the Armenian causes and organizations. Cultural Foundation. The fundraiser will raise money to ful- The presentation is based on Demoyan’s fill Lark’s mission of converting one of its extensive research and most recent publication 4,000-square-foot buildings into the Lark on the subject, titled Haykakan sporte Community Museum where Armenian Osmanean Kaysrut’yunum [Armenian Sport in culture, rich history, heritage and the arts Ottoman Empire], a revised second edition of the will be celebrated. The museum will also Tatev Yeghiazaryan and Soundsketch 2009 publication which includes newly discov- exhibit original Armenian historical docu- ered materials. This important publication, rich ments, treasures and themed lectures in historical documents, contains about 600 orig- that go back hundreds of years. inal photographs as well as the images of medals Lark Musical Society is a nonprofit orga- Fusing the Visual and and decorations bestowed upon Armenian ath- nization based in Glendale and has active- letes, posters, communiqués and press coverage. ly served the community since 1994 by Born in Gumri (former Leninakan), Armenia, delivering education in classical music to Audio Worlds through Demoyan is a graduate of Yerevan State thousands of children, bringing to life hun- University. He received his PhD from the dreds of world class performances, and Armenian Folk Institute of Oriental Studies of the Armenian commissioning dozens of world premiere National Academy of Sciences. Demoyan is the musical works based on Armenian themes. NEW YORK — As an ethnic people with roots in the Caucasus, Armenians con- author of several books on the Armenian Lark is one of the most active organiza- tinuously seek to maintain a connection to their rich history and cultural identity. Genocide, Turkish foreign policy and Turkey’s tions in the Diaspora working to preserve While language, church, and food play strong roles in the perpetuation of the involvement in the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict of Armenian identity, the most powerful link to the world around us arguably lies in 1991-1994. the musical harmonies and ethnographic euphonies that have transcended gener- He has been the director of the AGMI since ations. At times haunting and at other times inspiring, the sounds of Armenian folk 2006. In conjunction with this position, he has music resonate in a way that deeply connects the listener to the past and to the also served over the past two years as the secre- unrelenting truth that comforts us with its tary of the state commission tasked with plan- endurance. As we have evolved as a people ning and implementation of the worldwide com- By Rachel Onanian and music has evolved as an entity, tradi- memorations of the centenary of the Armenian Nadjarian tional Armenian folk and liturgical pieces Genocide. In addition, Demoyan regularly lec- have become the foundation and backdrop tures on the AGMI’s activities and related topics upon which numerous artists experiment in Armenian and other countries, including the in redefining the audience’s connection to what they are experiencing. United States, the United Kingdom, France, And so it is with the unique and intricate sounds of the New York City Slovenia, Russia, Iran and Cyprus. band, Soundsketch. Formed in 2012 by Yerevan-born jazz singer and composer, In addition to the work on sports, he has just published major bilingual (Armenian and Joe and Joyce Stein Tatev Yeghiazaryan, Soundsketch is a musical ensemble that embraces and cele- brates the powerful and unique union of Armenian, jazz and classical sounds. English) work titled Hayots’ Ts’eghaspanut’ean Presented both as the backdrop to films and as pure musical compositions, the lusabanume hamashkharhayin mamuli arajin and enrich the Armenian culture. intricate details of Soundsketch pieces provide innumerable variations for the lis- ejerin [The Armenian Genocide: Frontpage To commemorate the centennial of the tener, resulting in a versatile and eclectic audial experience that is simultaneously Coverage in the World Press]. This 266 page- Armenian Genocide, Lark embarked on a deep and inspiring. The six-piece ensemble includes piano/vocals, bass cello, trum- long book contains about 500 images, pho- journey to bring 100 events to the com- pet, saxophone and percussions at live performances with the addition of flute, tographs and texts, in color and black-white, of munity, demonstrating the rebirth of a harp and vibraphone for film and animation scores. selections from English, French, Italian nation that survived Genocide. Events Perhaps most unique about Yeghiazaryan’s compositions and arrangements is American, German, Austrian, Russian, Polish included Ian Krouse’s Armenian the way she combines the sound of jazz woodwind and brass instruments and Norwegian publications from 1856 to 1926. Requiem, Serj Tankian’s 100 Years’ with strings and voice to play folk melodies that are typically only played on The launching of this major project including an Symphony, Tigran Mansourian’s Requiem Armenian traditional instruments. exhibit of the posters which took place in and four nights of “Anoush” opera. Take, for example, Yeghiazaryan’s original composition, Heritage, October 2014 at AGMI received rave reviews. Lark’s goal is to make Glendale a desti- which Soundsketch recently debuted at Le Poisson Rouge music hall in New York Demoyan’s presentation will take place in nation for all lovers of Armenian culture by City. After returning from a visit to Armenia in 2014, Tatev felt inspired by the epic John Mirak Hall of the Armenian Cultural bringing to life a cultural museum in the mountains she was amidst and wrote the music and lyrics of Heritage to include Foundation, 441 Mystic St. In addition to the heart of the Armenian Diaspora in strings, horns as well as strong doumbek and daf sections — representing the cliffs presentation of the above topic, Demoyan will Glendale. It will also be a place for non- and rocks that are so prevalent. A traditional Armenian folk song played by the share his thoughts on the Armenian Genocide Armenian neighbors to learn more about see SOUNDSKETCH, page 11 centenary events worldwide. Armenian culture, traditions and the arts. Autographed copies of both titles will also be available for sale. S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING Karén Hakobyan Rebirth Adagio to Premiere at Tekeyan Program Commemorating Genocide Centennial

NEW YORK — Tekeyan Cultural Association section - Molto Animato, energico. This fast sec- presents the world premiere of Rebirth – Adagio tion introduces an intense new theme which for String Orchestra and Timpani, Opus 18, on can be heard as a canon in various voices sur- Saturday, November 21 at New York’s Merkin rounded by constant motion. As the movement Concert Hall, 129 West 67th St., at 7:30 p.m. dies out leaving the lone double bass holding a The work is a complex musical composition low note it creates a bleak feeling in the air fol- centered around two distinct parts each with lowed by silence. several interconnected sections. The first part The second part continues on from the silence consists of three sections, which bring out the developing the first, somber melody in the lower somber and tense character of the music. The strings until a ray of light as a solo violin enters melody first heard in the lower strings is sur- in the upper register. The violin peacefully plays rounded by constant trembling. It carries over the melody from Komitas Vardapet’s Tsirani Tsar into a brief second section Andante which (Apricot Tree). As the two melodies (past and intensifies and suddenly bursts into the third future) collide, the bottom layer eventually domi- nates the beautiful melody of Komitas. After climax is reached, Komitas’s melody re-emerges as a dance leading into the triumphant Coda. The Coda synthesizes all the melodies intro- duced throughout the piece. As it builds towards the final climax, it brings a peaceful resolution symboliz- Arkady Leytush

ing a brighter future. Rebirth – Adagio was specifically composed for the Commemoration of the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide and reflect the com- poser’s deepest thoughts and feelings on one of the biggest tragedies of the 20th century. Participating in the program will be Hakobyan, cellist Alexander Chaushian, sopra- no Hasmik Papian and conductor Arkady Leytush. The program will fatuer works by Bach, Komitas, Babadjanian, Sharafyan, Mirzoyan Alexander Chaushian and others, in addition to Hakobyan.

AIWA-SF Partners with Hearts of Armenia

Hasmik Papian Karen Hakobyan SAN FRANCISCO — The Armenian surround Armenia as the center of its deepest emo- International Women’s Association San tion. We are delighted to partner with ‘Hearts of Francisco Affiliate (AIWA-SF) is announcing its Armenia’ and thank Meghedi for donating 1⁄2 the partnership with Meghedi Melody Nazarian in proceeds to a critical AIWA-SF initiative.” collaboration with her latest project, Hearts of Women’s empowerment being near to her Armenia, a photo book inspired by hearts she heart, Meghedi decided to team up with AIWA Tekeyan captured all over Armenia during her 6-month SF and align the Hearts of Armenia project to Cultural stay from April through October 2015. a specific AIWA-SF initiative. After photographing more than 150 hearts Half of all proceeds of the book — which will Association throughout Armenia, Nazarian knew she had to be released just before the holidays — will direct- presents do something about it. ly support the Women’s Support Center of “Everywhere I turned, I began to notice the Armenia, an AIWA initiative, which focuses on love swirling around me: friends linking arms, helping abused women in Armenia gain the relatives hugging, lovers embracing. Whether voice they deserve. AIWA- SF Vice President romantic, plutonic, or familial, the warmth and Sophia Moradian says, “Contributions like hospitality that’s exchanged in Armenia is pal- Meghedi’s are essential for ensuring the success REMEMBRANCE & REBIRTH pable. So it’s fitting that as soon as I arrived, I of our initiatives in Armenia. AIWA SF is grate- A Classical Concert Commemorating the Centennial of Armenian Genocide started seeing hearts everywhere I looked: in ful for Meghedi’s generous support and we are the shape of leafs, rocks, and flowers; as graffi- proud to be in partnership with her and Hearts ti and art, and in so many other forms. Finding of Armenia. heart after heart started to become a symbol- AIWA-SF is also accepting pre-sale orders. Merkin Concert Hall SATURDAY ism for all the love I felt in my Motherland.” The book will be sold online and at various 129 West 67th Street • New York City AIWA-SF President Christine Soussa said, “The events and bookstores. For more information, NOVEMBER 21, 2015 captivating book truly captures the spirit of contact [email protected] or visit Armenia, despite the hardships; love and beauty www.aiwasanfrancisco.com 30 Featuring World Renown Artists 7pm Fusing the Visual and Audio Worlds SOUNDSKETCH, from page 10 fascination with haunting and magical fairy band is Spasoum (Waiting). This piece is an tales of different nations, cartoons and anima- instrumental piece and is played with a tradi- tions. She has scored for two short films, three tional Armenian orchestra that includes dhols, animations and has had numerous perfor- cannons and shvis. Yeghiazaryan’s rendering mances individually as well as takes into account the dynamism and mood with Soundsketch. (To see more about changes of the original piece with carefully bal- Yeghiazaryan and Soundsketch, visit www.tat- anced union of vocals and instruments of varied evsound.com.) origins without overpowering the other. Tatev was born in Armenia to artists Mels Karén Alexander Hasmik Arkady Soundsketch band members began calling Yeghiazaryan and Karine Arsharkyan. She Hakobyan Chaushian Papian Leytush the rendering of the song Spasm as a result of quickly showed a great interest for music and Pianist/Composer Cellist Soprano Principal Conductor its movement and intricacy. Another unique began formal classical lessons in both voice and arrangement is the folk tune Es Aroon (This piano at the age of 6. She had her first classical with World Peace Sinfonietta Chamber Orchestra Stream). Having sung the piece at the age of 10, vocal concert when she was only 9. At the age Yeghiazaryan was always fond of the water-like of 11, she and her sister won the Do Re Artistic Director Music Director Tickets: Karén Hakobyan Arkady Leytush $100/$75/$50 flow of the accompanying piano, and thus felt Mi National Music Competition in Armenia inspired to arrange the piece for strings with a and were invited to tour in Los Angeles for four jazz influence and the infusion of harmonica. concerts. She moved to the United States in KaufmanMusicCenter.org Most of her compositions are written to 2003 and went on to graduate from NJPAC’s Box Of ce: (212) 501-3330 Featuring works by ornate and strengthen the visual experience of Jazz for Teens program in 2006 and from Bach, Komitas, Babadjanian, Hakobyan, Diana: 201-790-0397 Sharafyan, Mirzoyan & others Helen: 917-589-4749 motion pictures. Much of Yeghiazaryan ‘s inspi- William Paterson University in 2009 with a full ration comes from her childhood and continued scholarship in jazz studies and performance. 12 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Fragments from a Lost Homeland Recipe By Hagop Vartivarian

NEW YORK — A presentation of Prof. Armen Corner Marsoobian’s book was organized on Thursday, October 15, at the headquarters of AGBU’s Central Offices, sponsored by AGBU Ararat by Christine Vartanian Datian Magazine, and Tekeyan and Hamazkayin Cultural Associations. The author is a professor of Philosophy at the Southern Connecticut State University, whose Chickpea and Green Bean Salad with President is Dr. Mary Papazian. Marsoobian has published an impressive vol- Lemon Lebni, Parsley and Green Onions ume titled Fragments form the Lost Homeland – Remembering Armenia using photographs A hearty salad that is big on flavor and full of healthy ingredients and expansive ethnographic accounts from his can be fast and delicious. family. His maternal relatives, the Dildilians had INGREDIENTS saved more than a thousand photographs, car- 4 cups cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans) rying them through their exile route to Greece 1 cup cooked fresh green beans, diced into medium pieces and then to the United States. 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped For four generations they were photogra- 1/2 cup fresh mint, finely chopped phers. Their photographs depict family events 1/2 red or green bell pepper, seeded and diced as much as national and Ottoman scenes, cap- Prof. Armen Marsoobian 1 medium red onion, chopped tured at various occasions. A magnificent trove 2 stalks celery and tops, finely chopped of high quality visual materials that has been 1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped salvaged today and forms a part of the reality of 1915 deportations until 1920, having been able 2-3 cloves garlic, mashed or grated our past life. His maternal family is from to do so thanks to their professional career as 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Merzifon and the paternal from Palou photographers also managing to hold back and 1 teaspoon fresh minced dill (Kharput). save many of their relatives. Eventually they 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Using his collection of photographs have moved to Constantinople where they have Juice of 2 large lemons and zest from 1 lemon Marsoobian has presented exhibitions and lec- equally photographed Turk and Greek freedom 1/4 cup olive oil tures in Istanbul, Merzifon and Diyarbakir, to fighters fighting each other. They have later Sea or Kosher salt, dried mint, and cayenne and black pepper large and receptive Turkish and Kurdish audi- moved to Hartford in the United States, which Chopped Kalamata olives and thinly sliced green onions as garnish ences. He has contacts in Turkish intellectual during the early period of deportations had Mixed greens, spinach, watercress, and kale (enough for 4 people) circles who facilitate the dissemination of his become a thriving Armenian community due to work in the various regions of the Turkish the abundance of factories there. The Dildilians PREPARATION: Republic. He will soon be going to Ankara, for have continued to work as professional photog- 1. Combine all salad ingredients (except the mixed greens) in a bowl and toss with lemon the same project. This time the exhibition will raphers until late in the 1980s. They have been juice, zest, olive oil, and spices. Add more lemon juice or olive oil, if desired, and garnish be held at an official state venue, unlike the Armenian Evangelical by denomination. with olives and green onions. three previous ones, the latest of which took At the centenary of the Genocide, this publi- 2. Arrange mixed greens on four serving plates. Spoon salad on top of the greens and place at the quarters of St. Giragos Church of cation of Marsoobian is, without doubt, a praise- add a dollop of Lemon Lebni on each plate as an accompaniment. Serve with pita chips, Diyarbakir (Dikranagerd). worthy initiative, dedicated to the maternal side toasted pita bread, garlic bread, or flat bread. The Dildilians stayed in Merzifon during the of his family, the Dildilians. *Chopped fresh salmon or diced cooked turkey or chicken may be added to this salad. Salad may be made up to two days ahead of serving and chilled. Serves 4.

Lemon Lebni Leading Scholars and Authors to Revive 1 1/2 cups lebni (strained yogurt found in Middle Eastern markets) Juice of 1 large lemon and zest from 1 lemon ‘Lost Voices’ of Armenian Writers 2 cloves garlic, mashed 4 Persian cucumbers, shredded WATERTOWN — A program titled “Hearing the Sea salt and black pepper Lost Voices: Armenian Writers and the Legacy of Olive oil the Genocide” will take on Sunday, November 8, at Paprika or Aleppo pepper as garnish 2 p.m., at the Armenian Museum of America, Adele and Haig Der Manuelian Galleries (3rd floor), 65 Place the lebni in a medium bowl, add the remaining ingredients, and mix until all ingredi- Main St. The event is co-sponsored by the Armenian ents are combined. Drizzle with olive oil, paprika or Aleppo pepper, and serve. Museum of America, the National Association for Serves 4. Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) and PEN New England. To see more of Christine’s recipes, go to: Armenian writers and intellectuals were among http://search.myrecipes.com/search.html?Ntt=datian the first victims of the Armenian Genocide in 1915, orhttp://www.thearmeniankitchen.com/ with such prominent figures as Krikor Zohrab, Daniel Varoujan, Rupen Sevag and arrest- Christine Vartanian Datian is a native of Fresno, California and lives in Las Vegas. She is ed on April 24, 1915, and later murdered as part of a graduate of Fresno High School and California State University, Fresno (CSUF), and the Ottoman Empire’s effort to annihilate the holds a Master of Arts Degree (MA) in Mass Communications. She has been published in Armenians and their culture. Sunset and Cooking Light magazines. The participants in the program will include Eric Eric Bogosian Bogosian reading Siamanto; Dr. Gerard J. Libaridian reading Daniel Varoujan; Dr. Marian Mesrobian MacCurdy reading Zabel Yessayan; Dr. Herand Markarian reading Roupen Sevag; Dr. James R. Russell reading Misak Medzarents; and Danila Terpanjian and Judy Saryan reading Zabel Yessayan. For more information about this program contact NAASR at [email protected] or AMA at info@armeni- anmuseum.org.

Armenian intellectuals arrested on April 24, 1915 Gerard Libaridian S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

Mamigonian Woman of the Year Joyce Van Dyke, Masonic Museum & Library (previously National CALIFORNIA Mamigonian Family Community Leader Joseph Ashjian Heritage Museum), 33 Marrett Road, Lexington, cele- (Posthumously) & Mrs. Alice Ashjian, Apo & Arlette brating 40 years and beyond. Reservations and informa- NOVEMBER 7 — Saturday, “100 Years and Flourishing,” Ashjian & Family, Hagop & Arpie Ashjian & Family, Vahan tion, call (617) 923-4542 or www.ProjectSAVE.org. St. Peter Church Ladies Society 57th Annual Fashion Mamigonian Young Leaders Award Sona Ashjian, Zareh NOVEMBER 21 — Presentation of a new book and Show and Luncheon, at Four Seasons, Westlake Village, Zurabyan, Michael Demirchian, Armine Afeyan, Karina book signing of Muron Scented Whispers by CA. Details to come. Demurchyan; Ghevont Yeretz Faithful Knight George Monsignor Andon Atamian, new of the Holy Cross Haroutunian. Oakley Country Club, Watertown, Armenian Catholic Church. Presentation by Avik Derentz FLORIDA Reception at 7 o’clock, Dinner at 8 o’clock – Surf and Deirmenjian, 7 p.m., Holy Cross Armenian Catholic Turf. Tickets - $100 per person. Black Tie Optional. For Church, Atinizian Hall, 200 Lexington St., Belmont. NOVEMBER 7 — Arts at St. Johns is hosting a concert Reservations Email: [email protected]. Reception to follow. that commemorates the 100th anniversary of the NOVEMBER 6 and 7 — Annual Autumnfest Bazaar DECEMBER 4, and DECEMBER 5 —Trinity Christmas Armenian Genocide with authentic Armenian music and sponsored by the Armenian Church at Hye Pointe, Bazaar, Friday, 12-9 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., dance. Performers include Joe Zeytoonian and Myriam Eli 110 Main St, Haverhill, Friday 12 – 8 pm and Saturday Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 from Harmonic Motion, plus Alique Mazmanian and Reza 12 – 7 pm. Lamb, Losh, Chicken Kebab and Kheyma. Brattle St., Cambridge. Mark your calendars; details to Filsoofi. Additionally, writer Douglas Kalajian will narrate Dinner served all day. Pastry table, Armenian cuisine, gift follow. For further information, contact the church office and provide commentary based on the experience of his baskets, raffles for cash and prizes. For more info, visit at 617-354-0632 or email [email protected]. own family and from his book, Stories My Father Never www.hyepointearmenianchurch.org or call (978) 372- DECEMBER 13 – St. James 84th Anniversary Name Day Finished Telling Me. 7 p.m. VIP Admission is $30, General 9227. Celebration & Banquet Honoring Raffi & Carol Admission is $20, and Seniors and Students get in at $15. NOVEMBER 6-7 — St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Yeghiayan, Parishioners of the Year. Save the Date, VIP Admission comes with drinks and hors d’oeuvres Church 59th Annual Bazaar. Friday and Saturday, 10 details to follow. St. James Armenian Church, 465 Mt. beginning at 6. For more information, check out a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Armenian Cultural and Educational Auburn St., Watertown. https://www.facebook.com/events/541255592690535/ Center, 47 Nichols Ave., Watertown. Meals served from DECEMBER 13 — Christmas Holiday Concert – Erevan or http://artsatstjohns.com/th_event/hye-doun/ 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Takeout is available. Delicious Choral Society and Orchestra, 7 p.m., Church Miami Beach. meals. Armenian pastries. Gourmet Gift Shoppe. Raffles. Sanctuary, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Attic Treasures. Live auction at 7 p.m. For more informa- Boston, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA. Save the date; MASSACHUSETTS tion, call the church at (617) 924-7562. details to follow. NOVEMBER 5 — Avak luncheon, noon, St. Gregory DECEMBER 31 — St. James 2016 New Year’s Eve OCTOBER 24 — Armenian Friends of America presents Armenian Church, 158 Main St., North Andover. Celebration. Entertainment by Arthur Apkarian and “Hye Kef 5,” dinner-dance, 7 p.m.-midnight, DiBurro’s Speaker, Ruth Thomasian, executive director, Project Band from Montreal. Save the date, details to follow. St. Function Hall, 887 Boston Road, Ward Hill (Haverhill). SAVE Photographic Archives, “Forty Years of Preserving James Armenian Church, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Dinner served promptly at 7:30. Music by Mal Armenian History Through Photographs.” Watertown. Barsamian/Johnny Berberian Ensemble. Tickets $50 by NOVEMBER 9 – Trinity Men’s Union Dinner and reservation only. Call either John Arzigian (603) 560- Meeting, 6pm, Social Hour, 7 p.m., Dinner; Johnson MICHIGAN 3826; Lucy Sirmaian (978) 683-9121; Sandy Boroyan Hall, Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., (978) 251-8687, or Peter Guzelian (978) 375-1616. Cambridge. Guest Speaker: Mark Kolligian,“The State of NOVEMBER 1 — Tekeyan Cultural Association and the Proceeds to benefit area Armenian churches. the Nation’s Healthcare System.” Open to all. Donation Cultural Society of Armenians from Istanbul will OCTOBER 24 — Fall Harvest Bazaar, Saturday, 12 noon for losh kebab and kheyma dinner is $15. RSVP host a tribute to community leader and architect to 8pm, First Armenian Church, 380 Concord Ave., byNovember 8 to [email protected] or the Holy Osep Sarafian. Sarafian and his wife, Nadya, the Belmont. Handmade choreg, manti, Armenian pastries Trinity Church office, 617.354.0632. retired principal of the AGBU school, have been active in and more. Grilled kebab all day. Marketplace treasures. NOVEMBER 10 – Nowhere, A Story of Exile, book pre- the community since 1980. He has visited Armenia more All are welcome, rain or shine. MBTA and handicapped sentation by author Anna Astvatsaturian Turcotte than 40 times to raise money for specific projects through accessible. Information:617-489-4779. recounting her family’s escape from Baku in 1989 to the World Bank. The program will be at South John OCTOBER 25 — 2nd Annual Holy Trinity Tailgate, 12 Armenia and then to America. Armenian Cultural Armenian Church Cultural Hall, 22001 Northwestern, p.m.-4:30 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, Foundation, Arlington. Reception 7 p.m., program 8 p.m. Southfield, starting at 6 pm., dinner at 7 pm. Musical Holy Trinity Armenian Church. 145 Brattle Street, Open to the public free of charge. Armenian interlude with opera singer Solange Merdinian. $50 per Cambridge. All are welcome to a tailgate party to watch International Women’s Association New England Affiliate person donation. To RSVP call Karine Koundakjian (248) the New England Patriots vs. New York Jets game, which Resilient Women Series. Info:[email protected]. 761-9744, Diana Alexanian (248) 334-3636 or Sylva begins at 1 p.m., on the 12-foot screen. Lots of food, NOVEMBER 13 – St. James Hye Café Join us for deli- Sagherian (248) 592-0825. beverages and snacks. Sponsored by the “Trinity Men’s cious food and fellowship! Kebab, Falafel, Union.” For further information, contact the Church Bayeldi, and more. Doors open at 6:15pm. Reservations NEW JERSEY office, 617.354.0632, or email [email protected]. accepted for parties of 6 or more by calling the church OCTOBER 25 — Armenian Genocide 100th Anniversary office no later than 5pm on Thursday, November OCTOBER 31 — Annual Bazaar and Food Festival, Holy Memorial Concert, 4 p.m., Mechanics Hall, 321 Main 12 (617)923-8860. For more information Cross Armenian Church Center, Union City. 6 to 10 Street. Worcester. Sunday, Co-Sponsored by Master visitwww.stjameswatertown.org. St. James Armenian p.m. Featuring Luleh Kebab, Khavourma, Keshkeg Soup, Singers Of Worcester and Armenian Church Of Our Church, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown. Kufteh Delicious Appetizers & Desserts! Take Out Saviour with performances by the combined choruses of NOVEMBER 14 — Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, 10 a.m. to Available. Children’s Halloween Party @ 5:00 PM. In- the Master Singers and the Greater Worcester Armenian 4 p.m., at Jaffarian Hall, St. Gregory Armenian Church, House Raffle Prizes. SUPER 50/50 Raffle (tickets @ $100 Singers plus a children’s chorus and a children’s dance 158 Main St., North Andover; handcrafted items by local each). International Music by DJ Berj. Special group. Tickets: $25.00 adults, $20.00 seniors and stu- crafters & artisans; light lunch served; further details, Performance by Antranig Dance Ensemble. Free dents. For information call 508-756-2931. Dorothy (978) 686-7769 or Rose (978) 256-0594. Admission. Limited parking available @ Church of Latter- OCTOBER 29-NOVEMBER 7 — “Daybreak,” Joyce Van NOVEMBER 15 – Razmik Mansourian – Live in Concert Day Saints. Enter lot from 25th Street (btwn New York & Dyke’s play about two women who were best friends with Albert Bulbulyan and Hovhannes Meghrilyan, 5 Bergenline Aves). For more info, contact the church office and survivors of the Armenian Genocide, will be pro- p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, Holy at 201-864-2480 or [email protected] duced at Tufts University in the Balch Arena Theater, Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. directed by Barbara W. Grossman. (The play was previ- Tickets are $35 and $40; advance purchase recommend- ously produced under the title, “Deported / a dream ed. For tickets or further information, NEW YORK play”). Performances are October 29-30 at 8 p.m., call 617.842.6552,781.241.2118, or 617.458.0903, or October 31 at 2 p.m., November 5-7 at 8 p.m. Tickets are log onto Holy Trinity’s website,www.htaac.org/calen- NOVEMBER 7 — Tatev and the Soundsketch, 9 p.m. $15 for general public, $10 for seniors, and $1 dar/event/148/. Proceeds to benefit the Holy Trinity Musical performance fusing Armenian folk, jazz, and on November 5. For tickets call the box office, Armenian School. classical sounds. Tickets $10 in advance and $15 at door. 617.627.3493, M-F, 9 am-5 pm. NOVEMBER 20-21 — Sts Vartanantz Armenian Church DROM, 85 Avenue A, New York, NY. For more info and OCTOBER 29 — Annual Fall Dinner and Drawing spon- of Chelmsford Annual Bazaar and Food Festival. tickets visit www.tatevsound.com sored by the Friends of Holy Trinity 1000 Club, 6:30 Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Lunch and dinner p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, Holy featuring lamb shish kebab, chicken kebab and losh RHODE ISLAND Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. kebab. Served from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Takeout available. Open to all - join us for a delicious losh kebab and pilaf Homemade Armenian pastries. Booths include Armenian NOVEMBER 7 and 8 — Sts. Sahag and Mesrob dinner, $7.99 per person; tickets on sale at the door. country store with wide variety of dry goods, jewelry, Armenian Chruch holds its 85th annual food fair Regular monthly raffle drawing at 8 p.m. plus 5 addi- white elephant tables, arts and crafts, silent auctions and and bazaar, 70 Jefferson St., Providence. tional cash prizes. “One-time” numbers will be sold on cash and prize raffles. On Saturday, November 21: Saturday, 11:30 a.m.- 10p.m.-Sunday, Noon – 6 the night of dinner; special offer: purchase five “one- Backgammon (Tavloo) Tournament, 2 to 4 p.m., and live p.m. Daily Raffle, Kids Games, Kids Movies,Arts & time” numbers for $20, save $5. For further info, contact Armenian music and dancing featuring Jason Naroian Crafts, Balloon man. Shish Kebab, Losh Kebab, the Holy Trinity Church office, 617.354.0632. Ensemble, 4:30 - 7:30 p.m. Sts. Vartanantz Church is Kufta,Kheyma, Yalanchi, Armenian Pastries, NOVEMBER 6 — Knights of Vartan Ararat Lodge of located at 180 Old Westford Road, Chelmsford. Lahmajoon & many other delicious food available. Boston 2015 Awards Gala, Vartan Mamigonian Man NOVEMBER 21 — An evening with Project SAVE Hrametzek! All are welcome. Handicapped accesible. of the Year Honoring James Kalustian, Shushanik Armenian Photograph Archives, Inc., Scottish Rite For further information, call church office at 401-272- 14 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror The Face of Democratic Debate

damned emails.” Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian That was one of the most exciting highlights of the evening, when Mrs. Clinton gratefully extended her hand to Sanders. It is true that the news media has been using and abusing the It seems to be the era of populism in American politics. Voters email issue ad nauseum. It is also true, as the failed candidate are tired of conventional politicians and are looking for people for the Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy and House who label themselves as outsiders, who can breathe fresh air Majority Leader, admitted on Fox News that the investigative EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 into the political system. This mood is apparent in the meteoric committee was out to undermine Mrs. Clinton’s credibility and An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication success of Donald Trump in the Republican camp and Sen. lower her rating. However, there is a real national security issue Bernie Sanders in the Democratic camp. Both candidates infuse when a secretary of state avoids using the official channels of raw and elemental energy into the political narrative. communication and opts for her personal channel. The Republican debate anointed Donald Trump as the front- Mrs. Clinton performed her best at the debate, which helped

EDITOR runner of his party and the Democratic debate enhanced her with her sagging poll numbers. She was perfectly dressed, Alin K. Gregorian Sanders’ image, almost undermining frontrunner Hillary fine-tuned through rehearsing and even adept in her use of Clinton’s foothold. body language. Her studied smile was always shining through, ASSISTANT EDITOR The Democratic debate mostly focused on Clinton and although sometimes she was caught off guard on camera and Aram Arkun Sanders, leaving the rest of the contenders in the shadows — her “monster” personality, as described by Samantha Power,

ART DIRECTOR Lincoln Chafee, Martin O’Malley and Jim Webb. (Webb just would emerge. Marc Mgrditchian announced this week that he is quitting the primary, though he Her credibility and trustworthiness are always in question, is leaving open the possibility of running as an independent.) although she claimed that President Obama had confidence in Another candidate, Harvard law professor Lawrence Lessig, is her judgment and that is why he offered her the position of sec- trying to get enough momentum to participate in the debates. retary of state. The Republican debate on October 13 was more crowded and When questioned about why she changed her mind in regard SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: at times tense, although the moderator, Jake Tapper, was high- to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, she immedi- Edmond Azadian ly professional and courteous. During the Democratic debate, ately refuted being a flip-flopper on the issue and said that she moderator Anderson Cooper allowed himself some abrasive always absorbs new information and based on the new infor- CONTRIBUTORS: questions, but all in all, there was an element of camaraderie mation, she changes her mind if need be. Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun among the candidates. Clinton has more than one skeleton in her closet. The Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Diana Bernie Sanders raised his profile significantly by continually Benghazi tragedy, which cost the lives of Ambassador Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, harping on the nation’s income distribution disparity. He was Christopher Stevens and other personnel, will haunt her to the Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian after the top 1 percent of the population, who do not incur their very end, and also she shrugs off responsibility by stating, “That fair share of the tax burden. That line of thinking has won was left to the security professionals …. In the State CORRESPONDENTS: tremendous popularity and boosted his campaign financing, Department, who had to make some tough decisions.” Armenia - Hagop Avedikian which does not depend on a few donors with deep pockets; Her “yes” vote on the Iraq war is another skeleton, which she Boston - Nancy Kalajian rather he attracts many donors who make small donations. cannot hide nor get rid of. Like many other flip-flopping politi- Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian By definition, Bernie Sanders is a socialist, not even a mem- cians, she claims that she voted yes on that misguided war Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach ber of the Democratic Party. He plans to emulate the based on the information available at the time, when she Contributing Photographers: Scandinavian countries — especially Denmark. “I love believed that Iraq possessed WMDs, where as revelation after Jacob Demirdjian and Jirair Hovsepian Denmark,” quipped Clinton, before adding, “but Denmark is a revelation was available at the time that a lie was being manu- small country with a scant population.” A system which works factured to justify that ruinous war. Any observer of the news for Denmark does not necessarily work for the US. In fact, could see plainly that a web of lies was being spun around to socialism succeeds in countries of abundance. The Soviets railroad legislators and the public. Actually, she voted yes based The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published tried to apply equality in poverty and the system collapsed. on her record as a politician beholden to the military industrial weekly, except two weeks in July and the first week of the year, by: What the Chinese are trying to do is to raise the living stan- complex, and she may not vote any other way, if the same cir- dards of 1.5 billion people with a goal of applying socialism in cumstance arises again. Association, Inc. a country of plenty. Mrs. Clinton has also bought the argument of the proponents 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 However, the concept of socialism is so tarnished in the of regime change in Libya, which has led to that country’s Telephone: 617-924-4420 American political lexicon, that people even don’t have to study destruction. During the debate, she was repeating the “regime FAX: 617-924-2887 the principals of the concept. No matter how popular Sanders’ change” mantra, which is applied to all the leaders of the Third www.mirrorspectator.com candidacy may be, he is on a doomed mission. World countries who have been targeted, accusing them of E-Mail: [email protected] The two top Democratic candidates had run-ins and more “slaughtering their own people.” Col. Muammar Qaddafi ruled For advertising: [email protected] friendly moments. Their views on reining in Wall Street were in Libya from 1969 to 2011 and built an egalitarian society, dis- contrast, with Sanders aiming to revive Glass-Steagall Act of tributing the oil wealth to the population. He was an eccentric 1933, which separated deposit-taking banks from riskier wheel- ruler but in no way would he fit Mrs. Clinton’s description. ing and dealing institutions. Mrs. Clinton came out with a more During this election campaign, Clinton’s adversaries will practical alternative, however, both candidates are not favorites bring out all the skeletons. She is a smooth talker and only the of Wall Street, as Paul Krugman wrote in the New York Times: future will tell how effectively she can talk her way to the top SUBSCRIPTION RATES: “If Wall Street’s attitude and its political surviving are any indi- office. cation, financiers themselves believe that any Democrat, Mrs. Armenians are always interested in how the candidate will Clinton very much included, would be serious about policing treat issues that are of vital significance for them. However, the U.S.A. $80 a year their industry’s excesses. And that’s why they are doing all they lessons have been learned; candidates will promise them the sky can to elect a Republican.” to get the contributions and the votes, only to renege on their Canada $125 a year Another issue of contrast between them was gun control, in pledges after the election. President Obama came closest to Other Countries $190 a year which Sanders turned out to be less consistent than Mrs. uttering the “g” word, but still, he demurred. Clinton, who claimed that the National Rifle Association (NRA) Clinton must be well versed on Armenian issues; after all, she was after her. was the architect of the protocols, signed between Armenia and All five candidates swear by the Second Amendment, but Turkey. She even flew to Switzerland to witness the signing cer- © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator have different views on gun control. No one dares to say that emony which would have been a crown jewel in her foreign pol- Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA the emperor is naked. In all civilized countries, where gun own- icy career, but she failed to break Turkey’s intransigence. and additional mailing offices. ership is prohibited or limited, the homicide rate is dramatical- Her trip to Armenia is another reflection of her perception of ISSN 0004-234X ly lower. It does not take a legal scholar to figure that out. It is the Genocide issue. In Yerevan, she went to the Genocide memo- only common sense. But ironically, when there is a mass mur- rial, claiming that she was making a personal visit to the mon- der, sales of guns skyrocket, because people are duped into the ument, mind you, not as a secretary of state, thus patting the POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn NRA paradigm that “a good person with a gun is the only deter- ego of the Armenians and signaling on the other hand to St., Watertown, MA 02472 rent against a bad person with a gun,” whereas the abolition of President Erdogan of Turkey across the border that she is not Other than the editorial, views and opinions all guns would make everyone safe. In the US, we may send trespassing the red line set by that country. expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily probes to Mars, but we are still living with frontier mentality. As Armenians and as US citizens, we need to study the total reflect the policies of the publisher. In one instance, Bernie Sanders bailed out Clinton when he image and substance of a candidate, because educated voters said that Americans are sick and tired of “hearing about your will always opt for the right candidate.

Copying for other than personal use or internal reference is prohibited without express permission of the copyright owner. Address requests for reprints or Thank You to Two Local Volunteers! back issues to: The Armenian Mirror-Spectator and the Tekeyan Cultural Association wish to express their thanks to Aram Belorian of Belmont and Baikar Association, Inc. Norayr Ayanian of Woburn, for donating their time and talent to conduct various roof repairs to the Baikar Building on Mt. Auburn 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- Street in Watertown. 1509 Both are members of the Knights of Vartan. S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

The Armenian genocide is a clearly established historical shameful and disgraceful. As editor of a newspaper in the fact. To deny it is to deny the obvious. But that is not the United States, I naturally support the highly protective question here. The case is not about the historical truth, American notion of freedom of expression rather than the or the legal characterization of the events of 1915. The European model of a more restrictive freedom of speech. real issue at stake here is whether it is possible for a State, However, regardless of which legal system one adheres to, My Turn without overstepping its margin of appreciation [limited discrimination among genocide victims is not acceptable. room to maneuver], to make it a criminal offence to insult • The majority of the judges repeatedly claimed that since By Harut Sassounian the memory of a people that has suffered genocide. In our Perinçek’s denial did not result in causing public disorder by view, this is indeed possible,” the seven judges wrote in the Armenian community, Swiss courts should not have con- their dissenting opinion. victed him. Ironically, by making such a dangerous assertion, To Ban Genocide Denial, Court Nevertheless, the Grand Chamber still reached some the Grand Chamber is actually inciting Armenians to resort Incites Armenians to Commit unwarranted conclusions that defy logic and common sense. to violence to satisfy the Court’s requirement that genocide The majority of the judges advanced the meaningless argu- denial could only be criminalized if it is followed by some sort Violence ment that since 90 years had passed between Perinçek’s of violent reaction. Since Swiss-Armenians acted in a civilized statements and “the tragic events” of 1915, there was no manner by calling the police and filing a lawsuit instead of In the case of Dogu Perinçek vs. Switzerland, the Grand need for Switzerland to regulate his speech. Supposedly, the bashing Perinçek’s head, they are now being told that their Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) passage of time had made his denial less traumatic on legal claim is invalid because they did not cause a public dis- sustained in a 10-7 vote the Turkish politician’s right to free Armenians. As the dissenting seven judges pointed out, the turbance! expression, finding that Swiss courts had wrongly convicted majority’s position violates “the principle that statutory limi- • It is historically wrong to state that there was no link him for denying the Armenian Genocide. tations are not applicable to war crimes and crimes against between Switzerland and the Armenian Genocide. Over More importantly for Armenians, the Grand Chamber con- humanity.” 400,000 Swiss citizens signed a petition in 1890s to protest tradicted the Lower Chamber’s unwarranted opinion of The majority of the judges also put forward a questionable the Hamidian massacres. Swiss missionaries saved countless December 17, 2013, which had questioned the validity of the argument to justify why denying the Holocaust was a crime, orphans during the Genocide and helped provide new homes Armenian Genocide. On October 15, 2015, ECHR’s Grand and not a violation of freedom of expression. They considered for them in Switzerland. Chamber rectified that jurisdictional issue, ruling that the Holocaust denial an “antidemocratic ideology” and “anti- Fortunately, the Grand Chamber did not require Court was “not required to determine whether the massacres Semitism,” whereas they claimed that Perinçek’s denial of Switzerland to amend its laws on genocide denial, implying and mass deportations suffered by the Armenian people at the Armenian Genocide did not result “in serious friction that the law was simply misapplied in Perinçek’s case. the hands of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 onwards can be between Armenians and Turks” in Switzerland. Therefore, Greece, Cyprus, and Slovakia also do not need to characterized as genocide within the meaning of that term Furthermore, while asserting that there was a direct link change their laws on criminalizing denial of the Armenian under international law, but has no authority to make legal- between Holocaust denial and many of the European “States Genocide. ly binding pronouncements, one way or another, on this which had experienced the Nazi horrors,” they found no Thankfully, the Court rejected Perinçek’s claim that he is point.” This was the judgment of the majority of 10 judges such link between Switzerland and the Armenian Genocide. entitled to 135,000 euros ($142,000) in damages and court who ruled in favor of Perinçek. There are several problems in the Judges preceding argu- costs. The remaining seven judges, not only disagreed with ments: International lawyers Geoffrey Robertson and Amal the majority’s ruling in support of Perinçek, but went on • There should not be a double standard in dealing with Clooney, and Armenia’s Prosecutor General Gevork to set the record straight on the Armenian Genocide: denial of any genocide. If denial of the Holocaust is a crime, Kostanyan should be commended for their exceptional “That the massacres and deportations suffered by the so should the denial of other genocides. The preferential efforts in representing Armenia in Court and defending the Armenian people constituted genocide is self-evident…. treatment of victims of certain genocides, but not others, is truth of the Armenian Genocide. Turkey Is the Next Failed State in the Middle East

Washington as well as Moscow. As Laura Rozen to avoid; the Kurdish military zone in northern mine the political side of the Kurdish movement By David P. Goldman reported October 9 in Al-Monitor, Washington Syria links up with Kurdish-controlled territory in by associating it with the violence of the P.K.K., announced a 180-degree turn in its Syrian inter- northern Iraq, and the two zones form the core of which has also seemed eager to return to fight- vention, abandoning the Sunni opposition in a prospective Kurdish state. ing.” ANKARA (Asia Times Online) — We do not favor of Syrian Kurds. Russia humiliated Turkey, meanwhile, by chal- Instead of responding to Erdogan’s provoca- know just who detonated the two bombs that “The United States will supply arms, equipment lenging Turkish fighters inside Turkish airspace, tion, the Kurds have shelved military operations killed 95 Kurdish and allied activists in Ankara on and air support to Syrian Arab and Kurdish leaving NATO to protest loudly. Nonetheless the in order to concentrate on winning votes in the October 10, but the least likely conjecture is that groups already fighting the so-called Islamic State US and Germany have deactivated Patriot missile November elections. After the Saturday bomb President Erdogan’s government is guiltless in the (IS) on the ground in Syria, the White House and batteries – the only weapon system that repre- attacks, Thomas Seibert noted in the Daily Beast: matter. As Turkish member of parliament Lutfu Pentagon announced October 9. sents a threat to Russian fighters – despite urgent “Observers agreed that the Ankara blast was Turkkan tweeted after the bombing, the attack The decision to refocus the beleaguered, $500 Turkish requests to leave them in place. Russian probably linked to a decision by the PKK rebels to “was either a failure by the intelligence service, or million Pentagon program from training and fighters over Syria prevent the Turks from pro- suspend hostilities with Ankara. The PKK had it was done by the intelligence service.” equipping a new force to fight IS in Syria to viding air cover for ISIS and other Islamist groups hinted in recent days that it would declare a new Betrayed by both the United States and Russia, “equip and enable” rebel groups already fighting in Syria, as I noted October 6 in our Chatham ceasefire in order to boost the HDP’s election and faced with the emergence of a Kurdish state on the ground came after an interagency review House Rules blog. M. K. Bhadrakumar observed chances. The people behind the attack wanted to on its borders and the rise of Kurdish parties in of the train and equip program, US officials said. in Asia Times on October 9, “Turkey’s scope for ‘prevent the ceasefire’ from coming into effect, the parliamentary opposition, Erdogan is cor- ‘A key part of our strategy is to try to work with maneuvering vis-à-vis Russia is actually very limit- respected journalist Kadri Gursel tweeted. The nered. At risk in the short-term is the ability of his capable, indigenous forces on the ground ... to pro- ed and it has no option but to reach an under- PKK’s ceasefire announcement became public AKP party to govern after the upcoming vide them with equipment to make them more standing with Russia over Syria. shortly after the attack, but the decision by the November elections. At risk in the medium term effective, in combination with our air strikes,’ Less obvious but no less ominous is the deteri- rebels had probably been taken before.” is the cohesion of the Turkish state itself. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Christine oration of Sino-Turkish relations due to Ankara’s In short, Erdogan now contemplates American In public, Western leaders have hailed Turkey Wormuth told journalists on a call on the new covert support for the East Turkestan heavy weapons in the hands of Syrian Kurds; the as “a great Islamic democracy,” as President strategy October 9.” Independence Movement, a terrorist organization end of Turkey’s ability to provide air support for Obama characterized it in a 2010 interview. That Until October 9, America and Turkey both sup- active among the Uighurs of Western China. Sunni rebels in Syria; a Russian campaign to roll was the view of the George W. Bush administra- ported the Sunni opposition to the Assad gov- Despite official assurances, Turkey continues to up the Sunni opposition, including Turkey’s tion before Obama, which invited Erdogan to the ernment with a view to eliminating Assad and provide safe passage to Turkey to thousands of assets in the field; and a collapse of his parlia- White House before his selection as prime minis- installing a Sunni regime. That policy has been in Chinese Uighurs via Southeast Asia, some of mentary majority due to an expanding Kurdish ter in 2003. shambles for months, but it allowed the Turks lee- whom are fighting with ISIS in Syria. Thailand vote at home. Erdogan’s ability to govern, and cohesion of the way to provide covert support to ISIS, the one claims that Uyghur militants carried out Whether the AKP government itself ordered the Turkish state itself, is at risk. Sunni force that shows effectiveness in the field. the August 17 bombing at Bangkok’s Erawan Ankara bombing, or simply looked the other way A minority of military and intelligence analysts, Russian intervention exposed the fecklessness of shrine after Thailand sent 109 Chinese Uighurs while ISIS conducted the bombing, both Turkey though, has warned that Turkey may not be America’s attempts to find a “moderate” Syrian back to China. and global opinion will assume that the ghastly viable within its present borders in the medium opposition to back. As the veteran Erdogan has suffered not merely a collapse of events in Ankara on October 10 reflect the desper- term. The trouble is that its Kurdish minority, strategist Edward Luttwak wrote in the first week his foreign policy, but a public humiliation by ation of the Erdogan regime. Regimes that resort to now at 20 percent of the overall population, has of October in Tablet magazine: countries that backed his regime in the interests this sort of atrocity do not last very long. twice as many children as ethnic Turks, so many “Putin must certainly be innocent of the accu- of regional stability–and this just before The best thing that Turkey could do under the that half of Turkey’s military-age population will sation that his air force has bombed the U.S.- November’s parliamentary elections. After the circumstances would be to ask the United Nations speak Kurdish as a first language in fewer than trained “pro-democracy” freedom fighters, Kurdish-backed HDP party took 13 percent of the to supervise a plebiscite to allow Kurdish-majority twenty years. because the trainers themselves have admitted national vote in last June’s elections and removed areas to secede if they so chose. The mountains of An existential crisis for Turkey has been in the that the first lot on which one-tenth of the budget Erdogan’s majority in parliament, Erdogan called southeastern Turkey with the highest concentra- making for years, as I reported in my 2011 book, has been spent, i.e., $50 million, are exactly five in new elections rather than accept a coalition gov- tion of Kurds are a drain on the national budget How Civilizations Die (and Why Islam is Dying, number, the rest having deserted after receiving ernment. Erdogan also revived military opera- and of no strategic importance. Neither Erdogan Too). During the past week, a perfect storm has their big family-support signing bonus and first tions against Turkish Kurds in order to elicit sup- nor his nationalist opposition, though, will con- overtaken Turkish policy, and threatens to pro- paycheck, or after they were first issued with port from Turkish nationalists, a transparent sider such action; that would undermine both voke deep political instability. Turkey may become weapons (which they sold), or after first entering maneuver widely reported in the major media. Erdogan’s neo-Ottomanism as well as the old sec- the region’s next failed state. Syria in groups, when they promptly joined the As the New York Times reported August 5, ular nationalism. The pressures under the tecton- Erdogan has suffered public humiliation by anti-American Jabhat an-Nusrah, whose Sunni “Having already delayed the formation of a coali- ic plates will only get worse. Saturday’s bombing both Washington and Moscow. Islam they understand, unlike talk of democracy.” tion government, analysts say, Mr. Erdogan is now may have demarcated the end of the Turkish state There has to be a fall guy in the Middle The Russians forced Washington to find some- buttressing his party’s chances of winning new that arose out of the First World War. East’s film noir, and that unenviable role has fall- thing credible on the ground to support, and elections by appealing to Turkish nationalists en to Turkey. Prior to the bombings, the worst ter- Washington turned to the Kurds, the only effec- opposed to self-determination for the Kurdish (David P. Goldman is a Senior Fellow at the rorist incident in modern Turkish history, tive fighting force not linked to ISIS or al-Qaeda. minority. Parallel to the military operations Center for Policy Research and the Wax Erdogan suffered public humiliation by That was precisely the result Turkey had wanted against the Kurds has been an effort to under- Family Fellow at the Middle East Forum.) 16 S ATURDAY, O CTOBER 2 4 , 2 0 1 5 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR