APRIL 16, 2011 MirTHE rARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXI, NO. 40, Issue 4184 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Armenia to Export Chinese Official Electric Power to Iraq YEREVAN (PanArmenian.Net) — Armenian Visits Armenia, Ambassador to Iraq Murad Muradian met with Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister Saleh al-Mutlaq this week. Meets Sargisian Armenia’s participation in Iraq’s restoration and exporting energy to that nation were among YEREVAN (Xinhua) — Armenian the topics discussed, the Ministry of Foreign President Serge Sargisian last week met Affairs reported. with Li Changchun, a member of the Muradian said that Armenia will submit agree - Standing Committee of the Central ments on economic cooperation and investment Committee’s Political (CPC) Bureau, to dis - protection for Iraq’s consideration in the near cuss issues concerning bilateral relations. future. Changchun conveyed greetings from Chinese President Hu Jintao and praised the long-standing exchanges and contacts State Department between the two countries and peoples. “After the establishment of diplomatic rela - Concerned over Nukes tions in 1992, the development of bilateral rela - In Turkey ANKARA (PanARMENIAN.Net) — The newspa - per Taraf continues the publication of Turkey- related WikiLeaks cables. According to the last Dr. Arshavir Gundjian, recently-retired vice president of AGBU Central Board of report, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is Directors, being congratulated by AGBU President Berge Setrakian concerned over the possibility of Turkey’s build - ing nuclear weapons. “Washington believes that Turkey is not plan - ning creation of nuclear weapon in the near Dr. Arshavir Gundjian Honored by AGBU future. The US administration is closely follow - ing Ankara’s nuclear policy; however, in a secret Central Board for Decades of Service document dated April 28, 2009, US Secretary of Li Changchun, left, a member of the State Hillary Clinton expressed concern over the NEW YORK — Citing his legacy of service to Armenians worldwide and to the possibility of Ankara’s nuclear policy develop - Standing Committee of the Political Bureau AGBU Montreal community in particular, the Armenian General Benevolent of the Communist Party of China (CPC) ment,” Taraf reported. Union’s (AGBU) Central Board of Directors honored Dr. Arshavir Gundjian with Central Committee, meets with Armenian President Serge Sargisian in Yerevan. a dinner and well-deserved tribute on April 1, at New York City’s University Club. Gundjian, who most recently served as vice president of AGBU, was a board mem - Parliament Ratifies ber for 35 years. A professor and researcher in quantum electronics at McGill Deal on Keeping tions entered a new phase,” said Changchun. University, Gundjian played a pivotal role in establishing the AGBU Alex Manoogian “High-level exchanges are frequent; political School in Montreal, which just recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Russian Military Base mutual trust has deepened; obvious results see GUNDJIAN, page 3 have been achieved in such fields as trade and Through 2046 economy, culture and education; the two coun - YEREVAN (AP) — Armenia’s parliament has tries communicate and coordinate in interna - approved an agreement to host a Russian mili - tional as well as regional issues.” Eastern Diocese Names Gov. Deval Patrick tary base on Armenian soil through 2046. Changchun recalled that during the World Parliament voted 80-1 Tuesday to approve the Expo in Shanghai last year, Sargisian met ‘Friend of Armenians’ for 2011 deal signed during Russian President Dmitry Jintao, and the two presidents exchanged views Medvedev’s visit to Armenia last August. As part NEW YORK — For his support of the More than 1,000 people — Armenians and reached a consensus on how to cement of the deal, Moscow also pledged to protect Armenian-American community, the from the Greater Boston area, leaders of their friendship and widen the scope of coop - Armenia’s security and provide modern weapons Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of the Armenian Church and national eration. The presidents’ meeting has pointed for its military. America has named Massachusetts Gov. Armenian organi - out the way for further development of bilater - Last year’s agreement extended the original Deval L. Patrick as its “Friend of the zations, distin - al relations and injected new impetus into such Russian 25-year lease on the base under a 1995 Armenians” for 2011. The award will be guished civic and development, he said. deal. The old deal limited its operations to the officially bestowed during the annual municipal figures Changchun proposed that the two coun - territory of the former Soviet Union, while the Diocesan Assembly, meeting this year in and elected offi - tries enhance bilateral relations in the fields new agreement lifted that restriction. Boston, April 28-May 1. cers — had turned of politics, economy, cultural exchange, edu - The Russian base is located in Gumri in north - “We are what we are because of our will - out for the cere - cation and scientific development. ern Armenia. It has up to 5,000 troops, S-300 air ingness to face horrors like the Armenian mony. Sargisian asked Changchun to convey his defense missiles and a squadron of MiG-29 fight - Genocide — and to use them as reminders Patrick stood greetings to Jintao, and said that he fully er jets. agrees withChangchun on further efforts to of the best of what we are. And the best of alongside the vis - promote bilateral relations. what we want to be is founded in tolerance iting Catholicos Sargisian said that China is a reliable and understanding.” of All Armenians Gov. Deval Patrick friend of Armenia. The friendship between The words were those of Patrick at the Karekin II, refer - the two countries is conducive to the eco - ceremonial groundbreaking and blessing of ring to the gath - INSI DE nomic and social development of Armenia “Armenian Heritage Park” along the Rose ered crowd as his “brothers and sisters,” as and to the peace and prosperity of the Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, on he offered his universal vision of human region as well, he said. September 9, 2010. see PATRICK, page 16 Kim Takes ADL Members Meet with a Stand Archbishop Barsamian in NYC page 10 NEW YORK — A delegation of the Regional Executive of the Eastern United States and Canada of the Armenian Democratic Liberal party (ADL) on Wednesday evening, March 30, met with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the INDEX Armenian Church of the Eastern United States at the Diocesan Armenia ...... 2 complex here. Arts and Living ...... 10 The supreme body of the ADL in the US found it appropriate to Calendar ...... 1 3 have a consultative meeting with the Primate in order to examine Community News...... 4 new challenges to the Armenian religion and diaspora. Editorial ...... 14 International ...... 3 The Primate, having newly returned from his long voyage to From left, Vartan Ilandjian, Papken Megerian, Archbishop Khajag Europe, Istanbul and Echmiadzin, provided extensive information Barsamian, Hagop Vartivarian, Krikor Salbashian and Dr. about the new Diocesan structures of Europe and various Vaghenag Tarpinian see ADL, page 16 2 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia A Garbage

North-South Corridor Dump Spells Investment Discussed Big Trouble YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Armenian Transport and Communication Minister Manuk Vardanyan received this week Vice President of Asian By Larisa Paremuzyan Development Bank Xiaoyu Zhao. Spokeswoman for the minister, Susana Tonoyan, said the interlocu- tors discussed the road-construction programs VANADZOR (Hetq) — The garbage implemented by the ADB, including the North- dump for the town of Vanadzor lies South road corridor investment program. within the boundaries of the village of Vardanyan presented the work carried out within Arjut, population 1,500. the framework of the program on improvement of It was there that I met up with rural roads and the current process. Souren Margaryan, a disabled village President Serge Sargisian, right, with Brian Fall The parties noted that they will do everything resident picking his way through a possible to move the North-South program forward. mound of rubbish. The man was look - They also discussed road management issues, pro- ing for something to sell. Great Britain Interested in grams on restoration of highways, construction of “I get a 12,000 drams monthly pen - the logistic center of Zvartnots airport as well as sion, but it’s not nearly enough. I come Strengthening Ties with Armenia issues on building necessary infrastructures to the here to the dump looking for some - airport — a new railway and road. thing — some glass, bits of metal. The bread is for my chickens. But If I really YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — On April 12, Armenian President find the remains of a tasty morsel, then Serge Sargisian met with Brian Fall, UK’s special representative for the French Ambassador I eat it on the spot,” Margaryan said. South Caucasus. Arjut Mayor Vardan Mkrtchyan says Sargisian expressed hope that the visit of Fall would play a positive role Receives Medal that on a daily basis there are five other in boosting the Armenian-British relations, as well as raising awareness of the region’s problems. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — As part of the Days of individuals who visit the dump. A few down-and-out folks have even died at The Armenian leader attached importance to relations with Great Britain, Francophonie in Armenia, Armenian students pre- noting that mutual visits and intensification of political dialogue at the sented the works of French singers and poets ear- the trash dump. The dump is about one kilometer highest level contribute to cooperation. lier this month at the Armenian State Pedagogical Fall said for his part that Great Britain tries to strengthen and maintain University. from the edge of the village. The site isn’t cordoned off, so stray dogs and good relations with Armenia, the Republic of Armenia presidential press Head of the university’s foreign languages, service reported. Donara Ghazaryan, said that the university also even cows and chickens ramble along. wishes to contribute to the cultural awareness of The dump has never been properly the French. maintained. Come a strong wind, and Rector Ruben Mirzakhanyan stressed the impor- bits of garbage are sent airborne, even - tively impacted the local village envi - Sardaryan said that two years ago an tance of learning French and noted efforts by tually settling on the village fields. ronment. individual from Vanadzor agreed to French ambassador to Armenia Henry Renault Mkrtchyan said some 20 percent of The mayor of Arjut complained that transport the trash after removing any - toward increasing interest in the French language the tillable land isn’t cultivated because the stench and the burning garbage thing of value. For this service, he was in Armenia; he awarded Renault the University of the garbage problem. The polluted fumes are driven by the winds right into to pay the municipality 3 million drams. Order. parcels are just used for wild grass to the village. He added that the Vanadzor govern - “This award will make me be more resolute and grow which is then fed to the livestock. “I have often directed people not to ment never even used some of the fee to remember that each step in Armenia is being During the past 20 years, the burn the trash. The stench is very wall off the dump. assessed at its worth,” the ambassador said. Vanadzor Municipality has failed to tack - unpleasant. The situation gets especial - The dump site belongs to the le the pollution problem. Garbage trucks ly unbearable in the summer heat. Vanadzor-Sanmakroum LLC; Edmon aren’t washed down and sanitation People have difficulty breathing.” Edayan is the director of the firm. PepsiCo Plant to Open in crews don’t have proper gear to wear. Mkrtchyan wasn’t aware that some of Lyova Melikyan, who heads the Mkrtchyan said that every day some the materials, when burnt, are quite Vanadzor Municipality’s Department of May 50-60 trucks unload their garbage at unhealthy and even known carcino - Communal Improvement, told me that YEREVAN (Mediamax) — PepsiCo will open a plant the site. In addition, the trash is trans - gens. they constantly monitor the site and here in May. Prime Minister Tigran Sargisian visit- ported in trucks with uncovered beds. The garbage dump also doesn’t allow clean it once a year. He denied the ed the construction platform this week. Thus, some of the garbage doesn’t even for development projects in the village. mayor’s allegations that dead stray Business Consultant of Jermuk International make it to the site. Some just falls off “There was a plan to investment in dogs were being dumped there as well. Company Edgar Kazaryan stated that the new plant the back of the trucks onto the the cultivation of berries. They came “We call in the excavator and bury could become one of the best producers of PepsiCo Vanadzor-Arjut road. and tested the soil and water. These the dogs. I can assure you that the in the world due to its technical equipment. “At times, I have personally closed off checked out fine, but once they saw the dump will be completely cleaned in a “After the launch of Pepsi production, we plan to the road and not allowed the garbage garbage dump the investors pulled matter of days,” Melikyan said. import new equipment for producing natural juices trucks to proceed. I have also informed out,” said the mayor. In fact, the law states that sanitary under the Pepsi brand. The volume of investments the Vanadzor Municipality and the Lori Arjut Deputy Mayor Norik Sardaryan conditions must be monitored on a has already made 22 million, however the cost of Regional Governor about the problem,” said that the village was trying to come round-the-clock schedule and steps the entire program is hard to forecast,” Kazaryan said Mkrtchyan. up with realistic solutions and had gone taken to ensure that violations are cor - stated. Poor trash management has nega - to various agencies for assistance. rected. Two production lines have been installed in the plant. The company plans to create about 250 new jobs. TCA Implements Pilot Project in Four Schools in Armenia YEREVAN — In 2010, the Tekeyan within a year through various programs cooperation in implementing various pro - 66 Billion Drams Centre Fund implemented its pilot project and events, and they all were a great suc - jects as well as in providing experts and Invested into Natural Support to Armenian Schools, which cess, both with schoolchildren and the consultancy. involved four Tekeyan schools located in teachers. The total budget spent was Having the successful experience of Gas Infrastructure various regions of Armenia. The whole about $17,000. 2010 as well as receiving positive project was initiated by Vartan In connection with this Armen responses both from the project partic - YEREVAN (Arka) — Robert Nazarian, head of Ouzounian, chairman of the Board of Ashotyan, the minister of education and ipants, schools and the governing edu - Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission Trustees of Tekeyan Centre Fund, and science of Armenia, in his letter to cational institutions, the Board of (PSRC), said this week that some 66 billion drams was approved through its AGM to become Tekeyan Centre Fund approved the fund’s Tekeyan Centre Fund made a decision have been invested into Armenia’s natural gas a regular and growing charity activity of project Support to Armenian Schools. to follow the adopted policy concerning infrastructure over the last several years. the fund to bring effective improvement According to the minister, the results the Fund’s activity and Tekeyan Speaking at a parliament question-and-answer to educational and social areas of school - achieved by the Fund in 2010 point out schools. Some of the programs are to session convened to discuss a proposal to set up an children. the importance and the usefulness of the start a tradition to encourage school - ad hoc commission to make an inquiry into gas The whole project was implemented project aimed at the improvement of children and to help them love the deliveries, he said in 1999 there were 70,000 house- schools in Armenia as well as the promo - school and knowledge. holds and industries connected to the network. tion of education. In 2011 again the fund intends to carry This figure has risen now to over 600,000. He also The minister praised the fund’s initia - out a number of projects in various fields: said the total length of the network has been Correction tive to provide the underprivileged school - education, culture, sports, entertainment extended from 5,850 kilometers in 2003 to 10,630 children of Armenia and Artsakh with and holiday celebrations. kilometers in 2010. A review of Erol Ozkoray’s free textbooks. He also emphasized the Tekeyan Olympiad, a scholastic compe - Last year ArmRosGazprom (ARG) spent 643 mil- tract, Turkey: The Permanent importance of the book-collection cam - tition in two subjects, the Armenian lion drams to expand its capacity. ARG is the only Putsch , by Daphne Abeel, in last paign, which is to enrich school libraries. Language and literature, and mathemat - company dealing with import and distribution of week’s edition of the Mirror- School competitions organized by ics, will open the new season of Tekeyan Russian natural gas coming to Armenia from Spectator , misstated the name Tekeyan Centre in various fields of knowl - Fund’s events. The competition was held Russia via Georgia. of the infamous ancestor of jour - edge have salutary influence on strength - at Tekeyan Centre in Yerevan on April 13. nalist Hasan Cemal. He is the ening ties and cooperation among school - The participants are the eighth formers grandson of Cemal Pasha. children and staffs. from Vahan Tekeyan schools in Yerevan, The minister also offered the Fund Gumri, Stepanavan and Karbi. S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Knock at the Door Presented at Museo Christian Cleric International News De Memoria Y Tolerancia in Mexico City Dodges Assault MEXICO CITY, Mexico — Attended and answered questions about her Armenians Injured in by more than 150 guests, a presenta - book, which is the story of her mother’s In Western Minsk Subway Blast tion of Margaret Ajemian Ahnert’s survival during the Armenian Spanish translation of The Knock at Genocide. Turkey YEREVAN (News.am) — Two ethnic Armenians, the Door was made on January 29, at Levon Sevuntz, a Canadian journalist Margarita Smbatyan, 70, and Samvel Sahakyan, the Museo de Memoria y Tolerancia. and talk show host, said, “For many ISTANBUL ( Daily News with were injured in a Minsk subway blast on Monday, The museum has a special room dedi - today, Anne Frank is the face of the wires) — A foreign pastor in Izmir spokesperson for the Armenian Foreign Ministry cated to Armenia. Jewish Holocaust. Margaret Ajemian escaped possible harm last Friday Tigran Balayan said. Sonia Arakelian, the granddaughter Ahnert has given Armenians their own after a Turkish man shouting ultra - It is not clear if Smbatyan is a citizen of Armenia. of the late philanthropist, Kerop Anne Frank’s Diary . Thank you, nationalist slogans fired blank Armenian citizen Sahakyan was taken to Minsk Arakelian, and a guide at the museum, Margaret Ajemian Ahnert, for your tire - shots into the air before being sub - hospital; information about his age was not verified dued by bystanders when he by press time. allegedly reached for a concealed A blast hit the Oktyabrskaya subway station in BB gun. Minsk during evening rush hour on Monday, killing Andrew Craig Brunson, the gen - 12 people and wounding 126. eral-secretary of the Dirilis Oktyabrskaya is the city’s busiest metro station, (Resurrection) Church Association located near the residence of Belarus President in the Aegean province, was stand - Alexander Lukashenko. The explosive device went ing in front of the organization’s off as two trains were arriving at the station, where building when the suspect, identi - two metro lines intersect. fied only as MAE, approached and started shouting anti-missionary New Synagogue Opens slogans. Brunson and passersby helped restrain the would-be In Baku assailant after he tried to extract an extra gun hidden in a bag. BAKU (RFE/RL) — Dignitaries, including several for- “I have been living in Turkey for eign ambassadors, attended the opening ceremony for years,” said Brunson, whose nation - a new synagogue in the Azerbaijani capital. ality was not released. “My children Last week’s opening was attended by US were born here and they are grow - Ambassador Matthew Bryza and envoys from Israel ing up [here]. This is the first time and Turkey, among others. I have experienced anything like Hidayet Orujov, head of the State Committee for From left, Dr. Jose Sarukhan, Margaret Ajemian Ahnert and Sonia Arakelian this. I love Turkey, we have good Work with Religious Groups, told the gathering relations with our neighbors.” that the opening of a new synagogue was a major The Izmir Police Department’s event for Baku. was instrumental in arranging Ahnert’s less efforts speaking and contributing anti-terror branch was continuing He said construction of the house of worship — presentation. with your book and educating many peo - its questioning of MAE as the said to be the biggest synagogue in Baku — was Dr. Jose Sarukhan, former chancellor ple all over the world with your story.” Hürriyet Daily News & Economic funded by the Azerbaijani government. of UNAM, Mexico’s national university The acclaimed and award-winning Review went to print late Sunday. Semyon Ichiilov, head of Azerbaijan’s Mountain and father of Mexico’s ambassador to book has already been translated into Turkish media have reported that Jews’ Community, thanked the president of the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, numerous languages, and this was the individual is an extreme nation - Azerbaijan, adding, “I want all nations to live as introduced the writer, who commented Ahnert’s fourth year on her book tour. alist based on his Facebook status one family in Azerbaijan.” updates and his membership in var - Michael Lavon Lotem, Israel’s ambassador to ious online groups. Azerbaijan, said the synagogue would be a major Roman Amoyan — Champion of Europe Writing a Facebook status source of support for the country’s Jewish community. update a few hours before his There are five synagogues in Azerbaijan, three of alleged attack, MAE said, “The them in Baku. More than 30,000 Jews live in DORTMUND, Germany (Panorama) — Armenian Roman Amoyan (55kg) Azerbaijan. has won the title of champion in the European Greco-Roman Wrestling imperialists who carry out mission - Championship. ary acts will remove their bloody Armenian champion beat Ramanus Dagis (Lithuania), Lasha Gogitadze hands from my country.” Iran Plans to Boost Gas (Georgia) and Russia’s Valery Borgoyakov. In the semifinal Amoyan defeated In another update, MAE quoted Azerbaijan’s Edanis Azizli and finally he defeated Azerbaijani wrestler Vugar the outlawed Turkish Revenge Exports to Armenia Brigades, or TT, and listed several Rahimov, who represented the Ukraine. TEHRAN (Armenpress) — The director of Iran Amoyan has won the European Champion’s title twice. associations whom he accused of conducting missionary activities. National Gas Company, Javad Oji, said intense negotiations have taken place with Armenia on boosting exports of natural gas from the Islamic republic to that country. Oji added that gas exports to that neighboring country may reach 2.3 billion Gundjian Honored by AGBU for Decades of Service cubic meters annually. Six years ago the two coun- tries signed an agreement to swap gas for electric- GUNDJIAN, from page 1 ity, and according to the contract, Iran agreed to “Arshavir’s legacy of service to send one billion cubic meters of gas annually by Armenian communities worldwide 2010. Currently Iran is exporting over one million through his lifelong involvement with cubic meters of gas to Armenia per day and a 30- the AGBU and other organizations is inch pipeline running 113 kilometers has been truly extraordinary,” said AGBU mounted from Tabriz to the Armenian border for President Berge Setrakian. “He has this purpose. been a friend, a fellow activist and a The Iranian gas and Armenian electricity barter partner committed to the ideals and contract is for 20 years. It is a four-part contract goals of the Union and a true believer in between Iran’s National Gas Exporting Company, the values for which AGBU stands.” Tavanir Company, Armenia’s Yerevan TPP and its Setrakian also paid tribute to Nadia Electric Company. Gundjian, whose tireless support con - tributed to her husband’s lifetime of ded - icated service. Most notably, Setrakian Eurovision Contestants announced that Gundjian would be named an emeritus member of the Visit Armenia Central Board. He then presented him Commemorative photograph of the tribute honoring Dr. Arshavir Gundjian (standing YEREVAN (Radiolur) — Eurovision contestants with a crystal plaque as a token of appre - in center) from Malta, San Marino and Ukraine arrived in ciation on behalf of the organization. Armenia as part of their promotional tours. This “Arshavir’s wisdom and experience week they participated in the Armenian National will be missed on the board but I am and endeavors. Gundjian also expressed made by the most senior member of Music Awards and said they were impressed with confident his service to our organiza - his appreciation for the leadership and AGBU’s Council of Trustees, Nazar the show. tion and our people will continue,” con - forward-looking vision of Setrakian, Nazarian, a major philanthropist and The three contestants, Glan, Zenit and Mika cluded Setrakian. who has rejuvenated the leadership of benefactor, who stressed that his entire Newton, performed the songs they are going to pre- In his remarks, Gundjian reminisced the organization through a younger, extended family had embraced AGBU sent at Eurovision 2011. about the many rewarding initiatives energized and professionally-talented and made it a part of their lives. Armenia’s representative, Emmy, is also sched- and achievements he had realized dur - board. “How I can serve the Armenian uled to visit different countries as part of her ing his involvement with AGBU. He Also adding their personal comments nation and Armenian people through - Eurovision tour. Her music video, featuring boxer recalled how Alex Manoogian, one of were Alexis Govciyan, chairman of the out the world is and continues to be the Arthur Abraham, will be ready next week. The AGBU’s greatest presidents, had AGBU Europe District, and Armen source of my happiness,” said Nazarian. scenes have been shot in Germany and Armenia. inspired him to become an active com - Bechakjian, the current chair of the “We should all do as Arshavir has done munity member and had consistently AGBU Montreal Chapter. Emotional and promote AGBU as the best organi - supported him in his various initiatives and powerful closing remarks were zation to achieve this purpose.” 4 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

Prof. Hovannisian Sixth Term the To Be Honored Charm for Mayor At UCLA Scott Avedisian

LOS ANGELES — On Monday, April 18, the UCLA Alumni Association and Alumni Scholars By Tom Vartabedian Club will present to Dr. Richard Hovannisian, from the UCLA Department of History, the sec - ond annual My Last Lecture Award. The award WARWICK, R.I. — He’s not Peter Torigian, at honors a professor whom students have voted least not yet. as most inspiring through But Scott Avedisian is setting his own exam - a campus-wide nomination ple for longevity as a six-term mayor of Warwick process. During the cere - — the state’s second-largest city with a popula - mony, the honoree reflects tion of 85,000 residents. on what he might say if Torigian, if you recall, held office in Peabody, this were his last lecture to Mass., for 11 terms or 22 years, prior to his his students. The award is death in 2004 at the age of 68 from cancer. a revival of the My Last During his venerable tenure starting in the Lecture series held at 1980s, he ranked as the longest-reigning mayor Prof. Richard UCLA in 1955, featuring in Massachusetts history. Hovannisian speeches from the univer - Avedisian is setting his own pace in the sity’s greatest and most Ocean State — one day at a time — and letting inspiring minds, such as Coach John Wooden, the years and terms fall where they may. Abraham Kaplan (philosophy) and Kenneth Under his leadership, Warwick was named one of the top 100 cities in which to reside in Trueblood (chemistry). Nancy Freeman with students, Levon Haroutunian, Nishan Glorikian and Garen Great minds have struggles, triumphs and Meguerditchian at school recital dedicated to Armenian culture America as well as one of the safest. For that, breakthroughs in their respective studies, and Avedisian bubbles over with pride. also in their own lives. Sharing those experiences “I stand behind my record as a moderate and imparting the knowledge they have gathered Republican,” says the 46-year-old. “I’ve been so throughout their lives does more than give com - durable in electoral politics because of my abil - fort and advice to students. It further enriches the Armenian Sisters’ Academy ity to reach across the political aisle.” intellectual discourse and adds depth in the rela - Just as genuine is the highest bond rating of tionship between teacher and student. Recognized by New any city in Rhode Island. Of particular note is Hovannisian is professor of Armenian and the preservation of some 250 acres of farmland, Near Eastern History and holder of the including 41 acres and a mile of coastline at the Armenian Educational Foundation (AEF) Chair England Association of former Rocky Point Amusement Park. in Modern Armenian History at UCLA. A mem - Aside from environmental growth in his com - ber of the UCLA faculty since 1962, he has orga - munity, there have been budget surpluses every nized both the undergraduate and graduate pro - Schools and Colleges, Inc. year and a number of other advances. Warwick grams in Armenian history at the university and has guided a number of students to graduate LEXINGTON, Mass. — The Armenian Sisters’ Academy (ASA) of Lexington degrees in Armenian history. Hovannisian is a announced recently that the Board of Trustees of the New England Association of Guggenheim Fellow and has received many hon - Schools and Colleges Inc. (NEAS&C) has elected the school to institutional mem - ors for his scholarship, civic activities and bership and granted it accreditation. This accreditation recognizes that the school advancement of Armenian studies. has met all evaluation standards during the extensive and comprehensive review After receiving the award, Hovannisian will process. reflect on a half-century of teaching at UCLA, dis - The Commission on Independent Schools’ statement reads, “The commission cussing issues of identity, acculturation and commends the Armenian Sisters for their presence, support and ministry, the fac - attainment. He will share what he has learned ulty and staff for their care and concern for the students, and the parents for their from his students, and how he has strived for the loyalty to and affection for the school, the entire school community for its deter - highest standards of teaching and scholarship. mination and success in perpetuating the Armenian culture and language.” In this American-Armenian environment, students benefit by building a strong foundation based on the traditions, history and depth of Armenian culture, while celebrating and growing through the diversity of American society with fellow Fatma Müge Göçek classmates. Upon recommendation from the commission, the Armenian Sisters’ Academy To Give Lecture on will further develop and implement ongoing strategic plans for the school. Sister Cecile Keghiayan, the principal of ASA, noted, “The accreditation solidi - fied the past 30 years of serving the Armenian community by the sisters and high - Turkish Denial ly-qualified teachers, who have dedicated themselves year after year to ensuring the development of the total child spiritually, intellectually, personally, emotional - LOS ANGELES — Fatma Müge Göçek, a pro - Mayor Scott Avedisian ly and socially.” fessor at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Mayda Melkonian, vice principal of ASA, said, “We are committed to ensuring will give a lecture, titled “Deciphering Denial: that the students leave ASA as ethical young men and women who thrive for the Ottoman Past, Turkish Present and the Collective is actually composed of more than 30 villages, best and possess the integrity to become responsible citizens.” Violence against the Armenians, 1789-2009,” on each with their own place in history, lending a The Lexington campus of ASA, located at 20 Pelham Road, is operated by the Tuesday, April 19, from 3:30-5 p.m. in the History warm, close-knit feel to the outsider. Armenian Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. It was established in 1982 and Conference Room, 6275 Bunche Hall, University The city is burgeoning with business growth, serves students ranging from Pre-K through middle school. of California Los Angeles (UCLA). public safety and high educational standards, The event is sponsored by AEF Chair in not to exclude quality youth recreation and Modern Armenian History, Department of senior life. Among the city’s annual festivals is History, Center for Near Eastern Studies and Gaspee Days each spring in historic Pawtuxet Center for European and Eurasian Studies. Village, which celebrates the first armed con - Göçek is associate professor of sociology and flict of the American Revolution before the women’s studies. Her research focuses on the com - Boston Tea Party. parative analysis of gender issues in first and third The Armenian side of him is often portrayed worlds. She also studies the impact on women of at Armenian National Committee events, processes such as economic development, national - Genocide memorials and youth activities such ism and religious movements. Her published works as the AYF Olympics whenever it hits his state. include East Encounters West: France and the He’s traveled with the ANC to Washington, DC, Ottoman Empire in the 18th Century (Oxford lobbying Congress to pass a Genocide University Press, 1987), Reconstructing Gender in Resolution and hosted annual flag-raising cere - the Middle East: Tradition, Identity, Power monies at Warwick City Hall. (Columbia University Press, 1993 coedited with His impressions of the Armenian community Shiva Balaghi), Rise of the Bourgeoisie, Demise of reach a pinnacle in Rhode Island stature. Empire: Ottoman Westernization and Social “They’re hard working and intensely loyal Change (Oxford University Press, 1996) and Social Kindergarten Graduation people,” he says. “I get a lot of support and Constructions of Nationalism in the Middle East there isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for the (SUNY Press, 2002). Armenian community when asked.” The lecture is free and open to the public. see MAYOR, page 5 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS At National Lenten Retreat, ACYOA Members Focus on Prayer

CLARKSTON, Mich. — Young people from During another workshop, participants pre - nine parishes across the Eastern Diocese pared short dramatizations based on gathered in Michigan last month for a retreat Hovhaness Toumanian’s “The Foolish Man focusing on the importance of prayer in daily Who Went to See God” — a story in which a life. man asks God why he hasn’t been rewarded Themed “Conversations with God for a New for his hard work. Generation,” the National Lenten Retreat was “All the sessions were interesting and bene - led by the Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan, dean of ficial,” said Melissa Mardoian of Sts. Joachim St. Nersess Armenian Seminary. It was spon - and Anne Church of Palos Heights, Ill. “Being sored by the Armenian Church Youth at college, I’m not studying my faith all the Organization of American (ACYOA) Central time, and so this retreat really helped me get Council, and held at the Columbiere back on track with God.” Conference Center in Clarkston, Mich., from Throughout the weekend, young people Friday, March 25 to Sunday, March 27. worshipped together. They also had the Findikyan opened the sessions with a talk opportunity to engage in sports activities, ask focusing on personal prayer life. Participants questions about the Armenian Church and read the preface to Confessing with Faith , a share news from their local ACYOA chapters. prayer book by St. Nersess Shnorhali, and The weekend concluded with the Divine reflected on the simplicity and clarity of St. Liturgy, celebrated by Findikyan. He was Nersess’ language. Findikyan stressed that assisted by the Rev. Tadeos Barseghyan, a communication with God can follow this pastoral intern at St. Gregory the Illuminator example. Church. Findikyan also spoke about St. Gregory of “This was a great opportunity during this Narek’s Lamentations and asked each of the (front row, from left) ACYOA Executive Secretary Nancy Basmajian, the Rev. Tadeos Barseghyan, Lenten season to take a break from our busy participants to analyze a prayer from the the Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan and ACYOA Central Council Chair Lydia Kurkjian with participants in lives to learn more about our relationship book. the ACYOA National Lenten Retreat with God,” said Danny Dardarian of St. John’s The Rev. Garabed Kochakian, pastor of St. Church of Detroit. John’s Church of Detroit, Mich., spoke about the role of the Book of Psalms in the liturgi - ACYOA Executive Secretary Nancy cal life of the church. He said that the poetic Basmajian led a “how-to” prayer guide, verses are expressions of prayer from the encouraging participants to use Scriptures heart. Participants had the opportunity to and to incorporate everyday life experiences Sixth Term Is the Charm for compose their own prayers in the style of the into their prayers. Book of Psalms . “I have acquired a greater understanding Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian The Very Rev. Aren Jebejian, pastor of St. and knowledge of prayer,” said Paul Gregory the Illuminator Church of Chicago, Derderian of St. Gregory the Enlightener MAYOR, from page 4 captured every ward and polling district, show - Ill., explicated the Lord’s Prayer , and com - Church of White Plains, NY. “I feel like I have Avedisian was greatly influenced by ing his reach. Also, at this year’s inauguration, pared the way it is presented in the Gospels of been given the tools to better connect with Haiganush Bedrosian, who was recently the Very Rev. Gomidas Baghsarian, pastor, St. Matthew and Luke. God.” appointed family court judge in Rhode Island, Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church, offered and Aram Garabedian, a former political leader. prayers. A photo of him being administered the oath of In his acceptance speech, Avedisian told his office by Bedrosian was published in the constituents, “I know there are some out there Providence Journal , on January 5. A second who might say this administration is tired. That photo of the two leaders chatting also made the can’t be further from the truth. I’m approach - edition. ing this new term with renewed enthusiasm His political record stands on merit. After and vigor.” serving in state government offices, Avedisian “Each day my administration and I make ran for City Council in 1990. He was re-elected decisions that affect the daily lives of our resi - to that office for the next four terms. In 1999, dents,” he points out. “None of us takes this then-Mayor Lincoln Chafee was appointed to responsibility lightly. his late father’s seat in the United States The youngest child of the late George and Senate. Jacqueline Avedisian, the mayor’s grandfather Avedisian was elected mayor in 2000 and has (Arsen Avedisian) was also active in the not yet left the office. In each election, he has Armenian community and was the real estate broker that founded an Episcopal church on Broadway in Providence, which later became home to St. Vartanantz Church. Avedisian was honored with the Haig Sarafian Award by the Armenian Students Association, given for outstanding citizenship, and was named Armenian of the Year by the Armenian Masonic Degree Team. He is a 1987 graduate of Providence College and secured a master’s degree in public admin - istration from Roger Williams University. Avedisian was named a Rodel Fellow at the Aspen Institute, a bipartisan group of elected officials charged with reclaiming the middle ground of American politics. He is currently president of the Standing Committee of the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island — the highest position any layman can have in the church. He’s served on the board of St. Mary’s Home for Children over the past two decades.

Coming in 2011 6 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS

Steve Odabashian Runs for Philadelphia City Council as an at-Large Republican PHILADELPHIA, Penn. — Steve A total of 10 Republicans submitted petitions married this summer and is a graduate of the Odabashian, a 41-year-old attorney and enter - to be on the primary ballot for at-large elections Armenian Sisters Academy in Radnor. He has tainer, is in the midst of a competitive election (one has since dropped out of the race). a bachelor of arts degree in economics from campaign for a Republican at-large seat on His political platform centers on fiscal the University of Virginia and a law degree Philadelphia’s City Council. At-large council - responsibility and lower taxes. Odabashian also from the Villanova University School of Law. men represent all of Philadelphia, as opposed argues that Philadelphia needs to do more to He has worked as an attorney in Philadelphia to a specific geographic division of the city. attract new businesses and residents, while not and in Tokyo, Japan, where he lived for three Odabashian collected more than 1,000 signa - scaring away those currently in Philadelphia. years. In addition to his legal background, tures from registered Republicans living in According to Odabashian, “Philadelphia lead - Odabashian has worked in finance. He traded the city, in order to appear on the primary ership has developed a real sense of compla - equity options on the American Stock election ballot, a task made all the more diffi - cency and it seems to be content with medioc - Exchange for two years, followed by a five-year cult as Republicans make up less than 15 per - rity. This city has so much to offer, but the cur - stint trading equities at Susquehanna cent of the city. rent administration is leading it down a dan - International Group in Philadelphia. Now that he is on the ballot, Odabashian’s gerous path towards financial chaos. The city Odabashian is well-known around Philadelphia next challenge is advancing past the May 17 must stop spending beyond its means and must as a pianist and comedic performer. He has primary election. The way Philadelphia City increase its transparency. Philadelphians are been featured on various national networks Council at-large elections work, the top five fed up with politics as usual and the frequent including FOX, ESPN and VH1. Republican finishers in the primary election, scandals that are giving Philadelphia a bad He is also an active member of the along with the top five Democrat finishers name. It’s time to clean up the city, both inside Armenian community. He has served on the advance to the general election in November. and outside of City Hall.” Board of Directors of the Armenian Sisters The top seven finishers in November earn at- Odabashian lives in the Northern Liberties Academy and was the first president of the Steve Odabashian large seats. section of Philadelphia. He is engaged to be Philadelphia AGBU Young Professionals.

OBITUARY

safe lodging for their children.’’ France. They arrived at Ellis Island on August Victoria Boghosian For a time, the Vaznaian sisters found a 1, 1923, aboard the French ocean liner haven with an aunt, but the aunt’s family was Rochambeau. Saved by Sister from Armenian Genocide deported and they were on their own. For days, Their brothers lived in Providence and the sisters told the Tab , they traveled with oth - Revere. Through them, Victoria met Paul Toros vivor, died January 29 of congestive heart fail - ers by foot without food, water or shelter, car - Boghosian in Providence. They married in 1930 By Gloria Negri ure, while under hospice care at her home. rying their possessions on their backs. and moved to Belmont. Her age is unclear because of records kept at Eventually, young Maritza was persuaded by “My father opened a variety store, Paul’s Spa, the time, said her son, Paul T. Boghosian Jr. of elders in the group to give Victoria to a Turkish in Belmont,’’ Paul Boghosian said. His parents BELMONT, Mass. (Boston Globe) — Victoria Belmont. “Our best guesstimate is 1912 as her family who wanted to adopt her. worked side-by-side. “My dad would say that his (Vaznaian) Boghosian was about 2 when her 7- birth year, and not 1909 that is her official birth Maritza made her way overland to the city of life would be empty without Mom — that what - year-old sister, Maritza, carried her — running, year according to records established here.’’ Malatia, a two-day journey by ox cart. She ever success he had in life could be attributed to walking, hiding — to escape the 1915 Armenian “My mother would often feel awkward when always yearned to get her baby sister back. her.’’ Genocide in Ottoman Turkey. people brought attention to two things about Their separation lasted for almost three years. Mr. Boghosian died in 1979. Soorsoorian Their parents, three brothers, aunts, uncles her life — her longevity and being a victim of “My mother knew she was out there some - died in 2004. Her last 30 years were lived in the Armenian Genocide,’’ he said. “She believed where and was determined to find her,’’ said Watertown, close enough to Belmont to still that living a long life is out of your hands; it’s Helen Marsh, of Lancaster, Va., Maritza’s daugh - look after her baby sister. essentially God’s will. And [that] being a geno - ter. “Someone told her of ‘a little girl’ who fit “Family was everything to my mother,’’ Paul cide victim is almost an accident of history.’’ her description. My mother went to the place, said. In his eulogy, he spoke of the things she saw Victoria playing in the yard, and scooped In 2009, she was honored by the Daughters loved. “She was never happier than when she her up. Victoria had forgotten Armenian and of Vartan for her 40-year dedicated member - was at her own St. James Armenian Church in was speaking Turkish.’’ ship. Watertown and with her family. She loved lan - Two older brothers had earlier come to “My mother had a great love of this country guages, particularly the Armenian language.’’ America and settled in New England. The sis - and was always appreciative of daily life here,’’ He said she built her English vocabulary from ters would join them, but not for a while. What her son said. “She didn’t take anything for patrons of the variety store she and her late hus - money they needed for their odyssey, Paul granted and understood the importance of band had in Belmont, and even late in life picked Boghosian said, came from the “fire-sale’’ price patriotism and love of country.’’ up new words from television broadcasters. Maritza had gotten for her father’s bakery in In 1999, when she was recognized at the She was born in the Turkish-Armenian town Harpoot. State House on Martyrs’ Day, she said, “I so of Hussenig in the province of Harpoot. First, they traveled by wagon from Harpoot wish my mother and father were with me here “Everyone in the village knew each other,’’ said to the refugee camps in Aleppo, Syria. At the today to recognize how I am being honored by Martin Deranian, a Shrewsbury dentist and camp, the sisters lived in a small room with four the greatest country on earth. God bless longtime friend with ancestors from the same other cousins, he said. “She said the best thing America.’’ area. “Victoria is one of the last survivors of the about Aleppo, where they spent about a year, In addition to her son, she leaves two daugh - Genocide.’’ was the friendships they made and maintained. ters, Gladys Conlon and Marilyn Papazian, both Victoria Boghosian In a 2002 interview with the Watertown Tab ‘Surviving together is like the devil’s candy,’ of Belmont; seven grandchildren, 15 great- & Press , Maritza and Victoria recalled their mother would say. ‘Even the most horrible grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchil - efforts to survive, their separation and their experience has its own sweetness.’ ’’ dren. and cousins were killed in the slaughter. incredible reunion. “The streets were full of fam - From Aleppo, they traveled by train to Beirut The funeral was held on February 4 from St. Maritza Soorsoorian told her own children ilies,’’ Soorsoorian said, “when Turkish soldiers and crossed the Mediterranean to Marseille, James Church. later that her mother’s last words before being ordered the Armenian residents of Hussenig to taken were “Take care of your sister.’’ And she evacuate the town immediately — leaving did, carrying her to safety, losing her for a while behind everything except what they could to a Turkish family, then fleeing with her to the carry.’’ Nardolillo Funeral Home United States in 1923. She recalled “the frantic crush of people on Mrs. Boghosian, who was honored by the street as families struggled to stay together, Est. 1906 Massachusetts 12 years ago as a Genocide sur - of being unable to protect themselves — to find John K. Najarian, Jr. Mary Kostikian, 20 Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 WATERTOWN, Mass. — Mary Kositikian died 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 unexpectedly on April 7. She was 20. She was a 2009 graduate of Watertown High www.nardolillo.com School. She leaves her parents, Khachatoor and Tagoui (Santourian) Kostikian; brothers Apkar and David Kostikian; grandparents Apkar and Mariam Kostikian and Hasmik Santourian and many cousins and family members. Funeral service were held at St. James Armenian Church, 465 Mount Auburn St., GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E Watertown, on Wednesday, April 13. Interment followed at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Watertown. James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Arrangements were by the Aram Bedrosian Funeral Counselor Funeral Home. 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. James Armenian Church or the Mary Kostikian www.giragosianfuneralhome.com Mary Kostikian Scholarship Fund. S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 8 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS ATP Leadership Receives Warm Welcome in Southern California

PASADENA, Calif. — Armenia Tree Project Sabine Eisaian, Shahen Hairapetian and Arax (ATP) expanded its presence in Southern Mansourian, Mark Howell and Joseph and Joyce California with a visit to the region by Executive Stein. Director Jeff Masarjian and Deputy Director Founder Carolyn Mugar greeted the 40 Jason Sohigian for a series of meetings and guests while they enjoyed a four-course meal, events. The trip was organized by Southern explaining the reasons for starting the organi - California Development Director Hermine zation in 1994. She invited Anahit Gharibyan — Mahmouzian with the assistance of Anahit ATP’s first employee in Armenia who is now an Gharibyan, and highlights included a fundrais - assistant to the development director in ing dinner in Pasadena and a presentation with Southern California — to recount the early students at the AGBU School in Canoga Park. years of the organization.

ATP founder Carolyn Mugar (second from right) at a fundraising reception hosted by David and Margaret Mgrublian in Pasadena with event Co-chairs Savey Tufenkian, Flora Dunaians and Elizabeth Agbabian

Community Tree Planting program has planted garten through fifth grade. The visit was coor - more than 1,000,000 trees at over 850 sites all dinated by the school’s Armenian teachers, and around Armenia. the donation to ATP was presented by Principal Last year, Alfred and Sabine Eisaian of Hagop Hagopian. Glendale contacted ATP about their plans to “For the school’s 35th anniversary, the build a Yoga and Wellness Center in Aghtsk Elementary Armenian Department wanted to Village near Byurakan. Their goal is to help the ‘Give something to our Homeland.’ Since we local economy and spread the love of yoga and knew about ATP, we decided to help turn healthy eating. Armenia green,” explained Armenian teacher “We have been supporters of Armenia Tree Maral Voskian. Project since its inception,” noted Sabine “The students were happy that they were ATP Executive Director Jeff Masarjian, Deputy Director Jason Sohigian and Development Assistant Anahit Gharibyan with Armenian teachers Takoush Nalbandian, Zepure Demirjian, Sevan Eisaian at the event. “We are excited about going to plant trees. Meanwhile they also Derboghosian, Hratch Sepetdjian and Maral Voskian, and Administrative Assistant Vartuhy Kojayan, ATP’s experts initiating environmental educa - learned something new about their Homeland at the AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School tion in the local school and planting trees in since we conducted lessons about the impor - Aghtsk Village.” tance of saving Armenia’s flora and fauna by In addition to hosting the event, the using ATP’s Building Bridges newsletters,” she David and Margaret Mgrublian hosted a din - Gharibyan recalled being asked on the first Mgrublians sponsored the planting of a tree for added. ner reception for ATP at their home in day to set a goal to plant 50,000 trees per year every guest. “These trees planted in your name “We are grateful for this tree planting dona - Pasadena on March 13. The event co-chairs and how she thought it could never be done. will become a living legacy of your support of tion and extremely proud of the initiative taken were George and Flora Dunaians, Alfred and She announced that since that first week, ATP’s Armenia and ATP’s mission to plant trees for by the young students at the Manoogian- future generations,” Gharibyan said. Demirdjian School. We look forward to working On March 11, ATP accepted an invitation to together to raise awareness among the youth visit the AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School about environmental issues in Armenia,” stated in Canoga Park, where a large group of stu - Masarjian. The school visit was part of ATP’s Lecture on Turkish Foreign Policy dents donated $1 per week for four weeks to Building Bridges program, which was designed sponsor the planting of 55 trees in Armenia. to connect diasporan students with Armenia’s Masarjian and Gharibyan presented ATP’s rich natural heritage. In South Caucasus Held at NAASR Building Bridges environmental education pro - For more information about ATP, visit the gram to a group of 300 students from kinder - website www.armeniatree.org. BELMONT, Mass. — Dr. Gayane Novikova, mostly determined by processes related to its founder and director of the Spectrum Center EU membership application, developments in for Strategic Analysis in Yerevan, Armenia, and the bilateral relations with the United States currently a visiting scholar in the Department and Russia, the Cyprus problem, the Kurdish of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations at issue and processes in the regions adjacent to Harvard University, will give a lecture on its borders. Thus, an increasing interest by E-SUBSCRIPTION “Turkish Foreign Policy in the South Caucasus: Turkey in the South Caucasus is unsurpris - Current Developments,” on Thursday, May 6, at ing; however, and despite the fact that the 8 p.m., at the National Association for South Caucasus geographically and strategi - AVAILABLE Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) cally constitutes its front yard, currently Center, 395 Concord Ave. Turkey’s activity in the region is rather con - This lecture focuses on aspects of Turkey’s strained. The Armenian Mirror-Spectator will be available every foreign policy as they relate to current develop - Turkey’s proposals to create stability and ments in Armenia and the South Caucasus. It security pacts and platforms can be implement - Thursday, in COLOR and PDF format to all who subscribe does so through the prism of Turkey’s relations ed only in the event of a normalization of bilat - specifically to this electronic delivery. with the European Union (EU) and Russia. eral relations between three regional states and Turkey is one of the most dynamically devel - if Turkey’s relations with each develops in a The annual rate is $50. oping states in Eurasia, and the model of its consistent manner. There are different types of political behavior as a Eurasian power is rapid - tensions and contradiction in Turkey’s bilateral ly moving away from that of a passive respon - relations with Armenia, Azerbaijan, and To subscribe to this service, please fill out the following dent. It is firmly defining its priorities in this Georgia. As a consequence, all possibilities and and mail it along with your check of $50 made out to the: huge area and, to a certain extent, is revising variants for regional cooperation forms, accept - the main directions of its foreign policy. Under able to Turkey, are more and more pushed into Armenian Mirror-Spectator, the AKP, which came to power in 2002, Turkey the indefinite future. has conducted a pragmatic foreign policy aimed Admission to the lecture at NAASR is free 755 Mt. Auburn Street, exclusively at defending and satisfying the (donations appreciated). More information strategic interests of the Turkish state. about the lecture is available by e-mailing Watertown, MA 02472 The level of political mobilization of Turkey [email protected], or writing to NAASR, 395 and its activity in the foreign policy area is Concord Ave., Belmont, MA 02478. H Yes, Please e-mail me the Armenian Mirror-Spectator Rainbow Family every Thursday. My E-mail address is ______Day Care Name and Last name ______By Talin Chiloyan You can also e-mail your request to [email protected] 617-924-9357 for faster service [email protected] S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 Ne w York M E T R O AGBU’s Focus 2011 Set To Take Place in Paris

NEW YORK — Building on the accomplish - cover some of the magic and mystery of Paris.” ments of its premier event 10 years ago, AGBU In addition to affording this unique forum for Focus, a biennial affair uniting young Armenians young professionals, AGBU Focus is a venue for from around the globe, is crossing the Atlantic. Armenians to discover the far-reaching efforts of Plans and preparations are currently underway the Armenian General Benevolent Union, specif - for this year’s four-day event, scheduled for ically highlighting youth programs which have August 4-7, in Paris. shaped generations. “It is our pleasure to dedi - This year AGBU Focus will give participants an cate Focus 2011 to support the operations of the opportunity to explore Paris while they meet Armenian Virtual College, an innovative program like-minded professionals from around the world. that aims to spread Armenian history, culture Through uniquely tailored networking, cultural and language,” says Deyirmendjian. and social events, Focus aims to facilitate dia - The Armenian Virtual College (AVC) is AGBU’s logue among young Armenians in the diaspora newest learning institute and the world’s first by building professional and personal connec - online Armenian school. AVC ensures that stu - tions on an international level. In addition, Focus dents everywhere have access to formal online provides an occasion to pay tribute to the AGBU studies in Armenian history, language and litera - programs that have positively impacted genera - ture. Courses are provided in six languages, cre - tions of young Armenians. ating a unique virtual learning community that The AGBU Focus Organizing Committee has allows students from different countries and been working diligently to provide an array of well- backgrounds to take advantage of the curricu - Children enjoy cool treats at the Ararat Center. rounded activities that showcase Paris in a unique lum. AGBU Focus is proud to promote the expan - way for local and out-of-town guests and encourage sion of this unique educational initiative and to participants to socialize with their peers. provide scholarships to students who would not The Focus 2011 weekend will begin with the otherwise be able to benefit from the courses Thursday-night networking event known as offered by the virtual institute. Having recently Ararat Center Makes Plans for 2011 Perspectives. Traditionally, guests take this oppor - launched a worldwide fundraising effort, Focus GREENVILLE, N.Y. — With the start of the 2011 Ararat Center season, the Board of Directors tunity to express their views and partake in mean - hopes to establish a scholarship endowment welcomes John Manca, new director of marketing/reservation and food Services. Manca lives in ingful discussions on various topics. As a result, con - fund, furthering AGBU’s dedication to promot - the Albany area and ibegan his new duties in Greenville on April 1. In January, former head chef versations that start on the first night lead to engag - ing education in the globally-dispersed Armenian Jyl DeGiovine, informed the board that she ing discussions throughout the weekend. communities and beyond. would be resigning her position at the On Friday, guests will continue to explore AGBU Focus has grown since its inception in By Andrea G. Karanian Armenian Youth Conference Center to pur - Paris, partaking in smaller group activities and 2001. What began as a simple weekend of 350 sue a full-time office position. The Board excursions designed to give Focus participants a guests has now visited Chicago, New York, also thanks Talene Kachadourian for her service as the marketing communication manager dur - look at the hidden treasures and off-the-beaten- Montreal and Miami, and united close to 2,000 ing its search for a full-time hire for the center. path locales of the City of Light. Later that young Armenians. Efforts throughout the years Within each parish of the Eastern Diocese, there exists a Liaison to the Ararat Youth evening, guests will be invited to the highly-pop - have raised over $150,000 for various AGBU youth Conference Center. The ultimate goal of these special volunteers is to be certain that ular Club Night at a venue in the heart of Paris. programs, including AGBU’s Scholarship Program, parishioners gain an understanding that the Ararat Center belongs to every member of Saturday will be filled with culture and cere - the Hye Geen Pregnant Women’s Centers and the the Armenian community — young and old alike — and that the concept of family and mony, starting with the Focus on Art event that New York Summer Internship Program. community is enhanced at the Center. will take advantage of unparalleled access to one Accommodations for Focus 2011 have been Several festivities have been planned for the center this summer. The Ararat Center of the world’s most artistic cities. The formal gala arranged at the historic Hôtel Lutetia in the heart Festival will celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Armenia’s independence. The date has been celebration honoring this year’s beneficiary of one of Paris’ most fashionable districts, Saint- set for Saturday, July 23. remains the highlight of the weekend and will Germain-des-Prés. Reservations must be made Incidentally, the cement pool at the Ararat Center is 72 years old. The pool is an impor - take place at an exclusive Parisian venue. As online at www.agbufocus.org. Guests will be able to tant feature for the participating camp programs as well as a highlight for promotion of always, Focus will conclude on Sunday with a purchase tickets to Focus events online and will the facility to other clientele. Consequently, a new pool will be given high priority. Of special brunch, allowing guests to complete their have the opportunity to connect with other atten - course, the biggest challenge with any capital project is its affordability. Preliminary esti - weekend tour. dees in the months leading up to Focus, allowing mates for the pool project range between $90,000 to $100,000. The board has decided to Throughout the world, people are already for interactive exchange prior to the weekend. officially launch a pool fund. gearing up and making plans to visit the French For further information, visit Visit www.araratcenter.org for up-to-date Ararat Conference Center event information capital. “We are very excited to host Focus in www.agbufocus.org or contact the AGBU Focus and for other donation opportunities,. Paris this year, bringing the enthusiasm of past Coordinator in New York, Lusiné Kerobyan at Focus guests to Europe and expanding the [email protected]. dynamic dialogue which has been established over the years,” said Aurélie Deyirmendjian, the chair of the Focus 2011 Committee. “It’s going to be a spectacular weekend, culturally and socially enriching, rewarding and inspiring as so many young Armenians come together to build Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2011 bridges for the future. The Focus team is thrilled to secure beautiful and unique venues for the events so that this year’s participants can dis - Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor a Teacher’ program has raised over $477,750 and reached out to 3,700 teachers and school workers in Armenia and Karabagh.

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

Entertainment Fridays Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 and Saturdays Mail your check with this form to: TCA Sponsor a Teacher 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056

Your donation is Tax Deductible. 10 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Edgarian’s Novel Portrays The Storyteller Married Life among the And the Artist Stressed and Well-to-Do

A Tale of Artists in By Daphne Abeel Armenia and the US Special to the Mirror-Spectator

Carol Edgarian’s first novel, Rise the Euphrates , dealt with three generations of By Nare Garibyan Armenian-American women. Her second work of fiction is planted firmly in YEREVAN (Yerevan Magazine) — During a middle-class, American San 1969 exhibition in Armenia, at the Artists’ Books Francisco, with side trips to House Gallery, Minas Avetisyan stood in the Boston and Cambridge, and corner of the gallery space and quietly observed there is only the slightest the reactions of the viewers as they encoun - trace of Armenian influence in this novel. tered his paintings. On this particular day, one There’s faint echo here of Tolstoy’s famous of the viewers was an Armenian artist from opening sentence to his novel, Anna Karenina . America, Richard Hratch Tashjian, who was “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy intently looking at one of Avetisyan’s paintings. family is unhappy in its own way.” Edgarian Upon seeing an unfamiliar face, Minas begins her story with the assertion, “The mod - Avetisyan approached Tashjian and tapped him ern marriage has two states, plateau and on the shoulder, engaging him in conversation precipice....” But here it must be said, the com - about the painting, later revealing to him that parison between Tolstoy and Edgarian ends. he was the artist and extending an invitation to Set in the very recent present (references to his studio. From that moment on, Tashjian President Obama and Hillary Clinton abound), became one of the fortunate listeners of this is the story of a couple, Lena (Helena) Avetisyan’s kind and steady voice. Each breath, Rusch, and her husband, Dr. Charles Pepper, a each syllable, each phrase became sacred texts surgeon-turned-entrepreneur who is developing for Tashjian and he recorded their conversa - a hot robotic technique that will permit long- tions. distance surgery. The Peppers, both in their Avetisyan was from the land of Djajour, a 40s, are parents of a son, 4-year-old Theo, and a vibrant, hospitable village in Armenia overflow - surviving daughter, ing with fruitbearing trees and the aroma of Willa, who would have freshly-made lavash, paper-thin bread. Tashjian been an identical twin met the Avetisyan family and witnessed Cover of the Turkish Edition of Cosmo with Kim Kardashian if her sister had not Avetisyan’s relatives prepare the lavash dough died at birth. Willa is before baking. He conversed with Avetisyan’s afflicted with breath - father under the apple trees planted near their ing problems and home to mark Avetisyan’s birth. Kim Kardashian Is Angry requires special care. In 1973, Avetisyan and Tashjian trekked the The family is under 22 miles from Yerevan to the village of considerable stress as Byurakan, the land of a “Thousand Springs,” As Turkish Cosmo Puts Her Charlie has aban - doned his career as a doctor to work on his Carol Edgarian On the Cover robotic invention, which needs serious LOS ANGELES (Daily Mail) — Kim Kardashian has always been vocal about how funding. Lena, formerly a television producer proud she is of her Armenian heritage. for PBS, has accepted that she must stay home Now the 30-year-old socialite has expressed her anger after her image appeared to care for her ailing daughter. on the cover of Turkish Cosmopolitan in time for her homeland’s annual Genocide The novel is fluidly plotted and fleshed out Remembrance Day. with minor characters, Lena’s sister, her best The day marks the systematic extermination of the Armenian population by friend and her mother, Beverly. Turkey during and following World War I, and Kardashian has spoken out about the The counterpart couple to the youngish horror in the past. Peppers are Cal and Ivy Rusch, a couple in their “Portrait of Tashjian,” by Minas Avetisyan, The photograph appeared on the cover after she took part in an international late 70s (Cal is 80), who have more or less seen flanked by artists Richard Tashjian, left, and photo shoot that went to various magazines published by Cosmopolitan . Avetisyan it all and had it all. Cal is a brusque and over- Kardashian took to her blog to comment about the cover. the-top successful Silicon Valley venture capi - She said she had no idea that the image would be used as the cover shot. talist who has backed many start-ups that not by car as was the norm, but on foot, clad in “I just found out today that I am on panned out. Ivy plays the role of a supportive blue jeans, button-down shirts and whimsical the cover of Cosmopolitan magazine in but not submissive wife to Cal, who runs his hats made out of newspaper that served as pro - Turkey this month,” she wrote. business and his partners with an iron hand. tection from the sun — a sort of pilgrimage “Cosmopolitan magazine has a num - They are very rich, the sort of people who can through the rocky terrains of the homeland. As ber of international editions all around throw a party for their daughter and fiancé that Tashjian and Avetisyan walked, they passed fra - the world that run in various territories, costs $1 million and offer a menu that includes grant wildflowers, streams and green valleys, and when I did this shoot for the interna - Scharffen Berger souffle and Grey Goose cran - and rested upon the rocks. They talked about tional covers I had no idea that Turkey tinis. (Edgarian is nothing but sharp on the life, art forms, abstract art, nature, artists and was planning to run my story on their details that define the wealthy who know how the conjecture that Cezanne would have loved cover THIS month, considering Genocide to shop with an eye to what’s trendy.) Armenia’s scenery. “What incredible water,” Remembrance Day is this month. There is a back-story to the relationship Avetisyan stated on the cassette tape with the “My Armenian heritage means a lot to between the two couples. Cal was the brother gushing sound of water in the background. me and I’ve been brought up to be of Lena’s father and once involved him in a Tashjian fondly remembers this trip and states incredibly proud of my family’s back - financial scheme that left him broke. He died that he “owes everlasting thanks to [his] eternal ground and culture so as an Armenian- not long after and Lena has never forgiven the friend the late Minas Garabed Avetisyan for American woman it is a huge honor for betrayal. But, it’s Cal who has the money to helping [him] know and love the real Armenia.” me to be on the first ever Armenian back Charlie’s robotic scheme and so when he After their spontaneous meeting, Tashjian Cosmopolitan cover.” offers Charlie the seed money to get his project traveled back to Armenia six more times, always Sources told the website TMZ that Cover of the Armenian Edition of Cosmo up and running, Lena can do nothing but fume. keeping his arrival date secret from Avetisyan, Cosmopolitan neglected to tell with Kim Kardashian In spite of some stated challenges, the com - surprising him at his studio, up four flights of Kardashian’s representation that the promised daughter, the difficulty paying bills, stairs, swinging the door open, which was Turkish publication would be using the the fact that they live in a shabby pink bunga - always ajar as a welcome sign to visitors. picture, and that there was no way Kardashian would have ever allowed it. low, the Peppers are never in any real danger of During his visits, Tashjian conversed with the To make matters worse, the edition coincides with April 24, the date in which going under. They drive a Saab, Theo gets into great Martiros Saryan, Yervand Kochar, Hagop Armenians commemorate the Genocide. a good nursery school, they employ a Hagopian and course, Avetisyan. In France, he A source told E! News that Kardashian is upset but realizes that it was just a slip up. Dominican nanny, whom they treat with politi - met Carzou and Jansem. He was inspired by “She’s upset about it obviously, but it was an honest mistake on the behalf of cal correctness, giving her clothes, helping her these great visionaries of art and in 1973 Cosmo ,” the source said. to learn English. became one of the founding members of the see COSMO, page 11 And the Rusches are bolstered by an entire Armenian Artists Association of America retinue of servants. see ARTISTS, page 12 see EDGARIAN, page 13 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING Barsamian’s Art Exhibit: 20 Years of Searching for Answers

launched simultaneously while prayers for man (endings). Experiences of our grandpar - the Armenian Genocide in a Holocaust Museum is By Betty Apigian Kessel Hagopian were being recited. ents are the same. I hope Edgar is honored by a necessary and important part of teaching and Hundreds of Armenians were greeted by seeing everyone tonight, smiling down and say - learning about the Holocaust.” He referred to the Holocaust Museum Director Stephen Goldman ing ‘good job.’” Armenian Genocide as “the first genocide of the DETROIT — The reasons were many and var - as they streamed into the magnificent facility to Robert Barsamian was born in 1947 in the 20th century.” ied for attending the Thursday, March 31, open - tour the exhibit gallery based on the tragic close-knit Armenian community of Whitinsville, Goldman is a man who knows the history of ing of what Dallas-based artist Robert events of 1915. It was also an opportunity to Mass. Both his grandmother and mother were genocide, be it of the Native Americans, Darfur, Barsamian called “20 Years- Searching for the view the vast exhibits pertaining to the Jewish Genocide survivors and the stories they told Rwanda or the Armenians. He is a man one Answer,” sponsored by the Holocaust Memorial Holocaust. It posed the question, “Can art help him reverberated in his mind and developed must respect. As a humanist, the museum has Center Zekelman Family Campus in in understanding the history, the memory and into art. picked a winner in him. Farmington Hills and Armenian benefactors in the trauma?” As a professionally trained artist Barsamian Thousands of area students tour the museum yearly as part of the their school curriculum to learn about man’s inhumanity to man and hope - fully as a preventive measure for future geno - cides. The United Michigan Armenian Committee is dedicated to “making a difference.” One of their projects is to create awareness of the Armenian Genocide through education in collaboration with Facing History and Ourselves. The Detroit Chapter of the Knights of Vartan lends valuable support to accomplish these goals. Educator workshops are held annually offer - ing an introduction to the Armenian Genocide by providing instructional materials. An essay contest is held each spring designed by Edgar Hagopian offering cash awards to student and teachers alike. It is an incentive to Michigan stu - dents to promote interest in the Genocide. “Road to Aleppo” by Robert Barsamian Barsamian’s art is thought-provoking. One shows a pile of Armenian skulls with Hitler’s quote “Who after all remembers the a collaboration with the Holocaust Center and Many of those who attended the art exhibit has lived and worked in Boston, New York City Armenians.” Another shows naked bodies United Michigan Armenian Committee. had paid their respect earlier in the day at the and Dallas. His works have been exhibited in a nailed to crosses. Others are a series of faces. It had been a longtime dream of recently- Echmiadzin St. John’s Armenian Apostolic variety of museums and venues including The The standout portrait that for many demon - deceased community leader and philanthropist Church in Southfield, where Hagopian was Bronx Museum of the Arts, the Holocaust strated the height of evil, depravation and sav - businessman, Edgar Hagopian, to establish ties lying in state. It was his wish that as a show of Museum in Florida and the Asilah Museum, agery of the Turks was the one called “Slave with the Memorial Center and in some way to appreciation, there should be an impressive Morocco. Girl.” It was a somber faced beautiful Armenian have their acknowledgement of the Armenian attendance at the museum’s art exhibit of Another factor in this venture into Armenian woman cloaked in black with long dark hair Genocide. Barsamian’s art depicting the Barsamian. Hagopian would have been pleased Genocide art came as a result of a personal and a horizontal line of tattoos on her chin, tragedy of those years is hopefully just the his dream was realized with such success. assault on Barsamian getting shot in a mug - neck and then more tattoos vertically passing beginning of a new and important alliance. The formal portion of the evening began on ging. At that point with the avid support of his her breast bone depicting the number of times Hagopian passed away on March 27 and his a Hye note when Goldman opened with wife he gave up a lucrative commercial art she had been sold into slavery. Dan Gark prayer service was being held the “Welcome to the first completely Kosher career to begin to use his talent to develop There is nothing but sadness in the Jewish evening of March 31. It is ironic that Robert Armenian event.” Then he said, “Ian, yan, ouni genocide art. Holocaust or the Armenian Genocide. The only Barsamian’s exhibit of Genocide art was being name endings are here with the stein, berg and This is the artist’s statement: “As a survivor identifiable positives were the straggle of pitiful sur - of a violent armed robbery, I began to identify vivors. The lesson to be learned is that one or a with the victimization of my Armenian ances - handful of maniacs can cause such an epidemic of tors. Luco, my grandmother, spoke often of hate that they can incite others to slaughter mil - Armenia, the life she had there, and her story of lions of innocent men, women and children without survival. My mother was also a survivor. These a bit of conscience and in the case of the Armenian two women are the storytellers in my life and Genocide, the Turkish government remains their stories have formed my art. I use symbol - adamant in their denial of guilt. ic images to represent the Turks, the Does the human race have the capability to Armenians, the atrocities and the hope and really mean “Never again?” strength of the culture.” Perhaps artists like Robert Barsamian can get Barsamian played a video for the audience the message out through his meaningful art. called “I remember,” inviting all to a meditation We are immensely grateful to museum direc - with his grandmother saying “I want you to join.” tor Stephen Goldman of the Holocaust Observing the art amidst extended genera - Memorial Center, The United Michigan tions of fellow Armenians born of genocide sur - Armenian Committee and all those who made vivors was both heart wrenching and emotion - the evening a huge success. Refreshments fol - ally stirring. lowed for attending guests. Somber faces broke out into smiles only upon This exhibit was also made possible through the encountering of a friend. Photos of Enver, the generosity of the following: Alex and Marie Jemal and Talaat, executors of the genocide Manoogian Foundation, Masco Foundation, prompted one person to say, “Too bad they Knights and Daughters of Vartan, Darakjian (Turks) could only be killed one time,” such was Jewelers, Lisa Karamedjian Meer and Brian the height of emotion. Meer, The Ajemian Foundation, Hagopian Goldman extended a warm and cordial greeting world of Rugs, and printing of exhibit guide by to all. He is a gregarious man full of good humor Katherine Snedeker. and humanity. He said, “We either learn to survive The exhibit continues to July 10. Shalom and together or we will die together. Speaking about Sdesetioun .

Kardashian’s Angry at Turkish Cosmo Cover COSMO, from page 10 talked to the magazine last Monday and after According to the insider, Kardashian, who deciding to put the matter behind her, they all has worked with the magazine on more than agreed another photo shoot could be scheduled one occasion, usually gets full copy and picture for as early as this week. approval. Kardashian’s late father Robert Kardashian “This one just slipped through the cracks,” was a third-generation Armenian-American they said. “I can’t imagine that they would have and her great-grandparents immigrated to Los done this on purpose. Kim has a really great Angeles from the country. relationship with Cosmo .” Although only half-Armenian, Kim But despite Kardashian not being told about Kardashian has said in the past that she was her cover shot on the magazine, she has decid - raised with a huge Armenian influence, “always ed to forgive and forget and has already agreed hearing Armenian stories, eating Armenian to do a new shoot for Cosmo . food and celebrating Armenian holidays.” A source close to Kardashian told TMZ that The Armenian Genocide is also known as the she struggled with her decision because Armenian Holocaust, and by Armenians, as the although she has an “amazing relationship” Great Crime. with the magazine, she is very passionate about It refers to the obliteration of the Armenian her Armenian heritage. population of the Ottoman Empire during and Kardashian’s representatives apparently just after World War I. 12 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING

The Storyteller And the Artist LISA COHEN PHOTOS

ARTISTS, from page 10 creation to Avetisyan. When Tashjian heard of (AAAA) in Boston, which allowed artists to Avetisyan’s studio fire in 1972, he was in donate their work to be exhibited at Yerevan’s Massachusetts giving a presentation on con - Museum of Modern Art. Tashjian was also for - temporary Armenian artists. At the end of the tunate to have met the prolific writer William evening, a photographer, Arthur Tcholoakian, Saroyan in the Armenia Hotel in 1976, as who had taken photos of Avetisyan’s work and Saroyan welcomed him with his deep and had witnessed the fire, approached Tashjian hearty laugh. The day before Tashjian was to with a message from Avetisyan that his studio be acquainted with Avetisyan, he was in the air - had caught on fire, but that he was not plane reading Julien Levy’s book about Arshile harmed. Upon hearing this, Tashjian began to Gorky, when Vartoosh Moodaian, Gorky’s sis - consider how he could help his friend from the ter, caught a glimpse of the book. What a great shores of America. He immediately prepared a coincidence it was. They engaged in conversa - package for Minas that included paint tubes, a tion and a friendship emerged between them. fine reproduction of Gorky’s painting, Tashjian was headed to Yerevan to immerse “Agony,” and a note encouraging him to keep himself in the art of the homeland, and painting. Moodaian was on her way to meet her cousin, Tashjian asked Mr. Choukazian, who was the

Elaine Mosesian, left, and Charleen Onanian, daughters of the late philanthropist Charles Mosesian, stand with Joyce Kulhawik after the award named for their father was presented to the longtime arts and entertainment reporter for her support of the arts.

Anniversary Celebration at Arsenal Center Pays Tribute to Arts Supporter Joyce Kulhawik

WATERTOWN, Mass. — On Wednesday, April 6, the Arsenal Center for the Arts paid trib - ute to the late Charles Mosesian, whose eponymous theater is at the center, while cele - brating the center’s fifth anniversary and honoring longtime Boston-area arts and culture reporter, Joyce Kulhawik, with an award named for the late philanthropist. Kulhawik received the first annual Charles Mosesian Award for Support of the Arts from his two daughters, Elaine Mosesian and Charleen Onanian. The award recognizes individ -

uals or organizations who exempli - LISA COHEN PHOTOS fy the late Mosesian’s commitment to the arts, the arts community and the Arsenal Center for the Arts. The evening’s program featured a performance by Broadway star Liz Callaway. Callaway is known for her leading roles in “Cats” and “Miss Saigon” among others. She often performs and records with Joyce Kulhawik smiles after Board member John her sister, Ann Hampton Callaway. Airasian presents the Arsenal Center’s first annual “Dawn in the Village” Djajour, Armenia, Richard Tashjian She sings the theme song to the Charles Mosesian Award for Support of the Arts to show, “The Nanny,” with (and writ - her. ten by) her sister. Ado Adoian, for a family reunion. director of the museum of ancient books and Tashjian began to sketch when he was 10- manuscripts in Yerevan, the Matenadaran and years-old and would drive his sister crazy was visiting from Boston to deliver the package because he drew on her school notebooks. to Avetisyan. After the studio blaze many of Creative expression run in the family and his Avetisyan’s paintings were lost and his large grandfather was a famous kanon player from circle of artists friends came to his side to help Kharpert and his uncle was an artist who in any possible way. Avetisyan arose out of the owned an art gallery. ashes and painted with an even more fervent Tashjian loved to paint on location and explosion of color. would venture outside of Yerevan with his Avetisyan’s and Tashjian’s friendship became portable easel, canvases, notepads, brushes, permanently encapsulated within the portrai - pencils and watercolor to paint in his large, ture of Tashjian painted by Avetisyan and with - open-air studio. He has painted on location in in Tashjian’s two tribute paintings to Avetisyan Southern France, the Crimea and New Mexico, as he heads back home to Djajour. Avetisyan was born in Djajour, Armenia, in 1928. He attended the Yerevan College of Fine Arts and he made a mark at the Leningrand Art Academy. He painted more than 500 paintings, 500 graphics, 20 murals at 500 square meters, stage designs for opera and ballets, such as the “Gayane” ballet. Avetisyan did not complete his illustrations for the “In memoriam to my good friend and artist Minas G. Avetisyan,” by novel, Verk Hayastan . Richard Tashjian Avetisyan was an excep - tional artist who was also a man of the world, con - where he currently resides. He awakens to the scious of friends, family, nation and the value bright red dawn of the Santa Fe desert land - of life. scape and points to a mountain in the distance Tashjian was born in 1926, in Chelsea, that is reminiscent of the slopes and high Mass. He served two years in the Navy during peaks of Aragats Mountain in Armenia. He World War II as an aerial photographer from paints a section of the Rio Grande River on 1944 to 1946. He attended the School of the location and remembers the Hrazdan River Museum of Fine Arts in Boston from 1946 to that flows through Yerevan. 1950 and studied at the Massachusetts Tashjian continues to paint and is well Institute of Technology (MIT) School of known in the Santa Fe art scene. Tashjian was Visual Design Architectural Center under inspired by Gorky’s dynamic painting, “The Gyorgy Kepes. Tashjian enjoyed a successful Garden of Sochi.” career as an artist and art director at various He recreated, by hand, a miniature version advertising agencies until 1983. Today, he of the bright amorphous form in the center of continues to paint and exhibit his work in the painting as a gold necklace and gave his New Mexico. S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Edgarian’s Novel Portrays Married Life Among the Stressed and Well-to-Do

EDGARIAN, from page 10 didn’t kill each other and as yet, they didn’t well. While Charlie and Lena have intense con - quit. Their punishment was worse. They An early reviewer compared this novel to versations about their troubles, the true emo - would go on.” the work of Jonathan Franzen, who has tions are difficult to discern, presented as And, yes, Lena does act shabbily, indulging chronicled the lives of upper-middle-class dys - they are in a fraught rhetoric that often in a one-night stand with Alessandro (“San”), functionals. Edgarian’s work is closer to that seems clichéd and hyperbolic. For example, an Italian Casanova, who comes back into her of Judith Krantz, a highly-successful writer of “Their kind of love wouldn’t just end. It was life because he is working on business ven - popular, commercial fiction, ( Scruples, harder to break than that. They’d acted tures with Cal. Princess Daisy, Mistral’s Daughter) who also unpardonably, selfishly, and, in her case, Although the novel moves forward at a sets her stories in California and who has a shabbily, and the world didn’t stop and they good clip, Edgarian misses some chances to command of the lifestyle of the rich if not the write scenes that might have added to the famous. dramatic impact of the story. When Charlie Great literature this is not. It’s a good air - and Lena decide to separate temporarily, the port read and may appeal particularly to read - reader learns of this important decision only ers in their 30sand 40s who relate easily to The Axor in a throwaway line. More might have been the Peppers’ trials and tribulations. The BY RUTH AROIAN revealed of the couple’s inner lives if such a novel does not escape a certain self-congrat - scene had been shown rather than told. ulatory tone, which may grate on some read - The events that move the story to its con - ers’ ears. However, Edgarian is writing in a Ma Ma I’ve seen you weep clusion are the financial crash of 2008 and vein that could very well gain her a wide Ever since I knew you the illnesses of Cal and Ivy. Both develop can - audience. cer, and while there are some surprises and Three Stages of Amazement. For some reason I can assure you bumpy ground to cover before the novel By Carol Edgarian. Scribner. 2011. 295 pp. comes to its conclusion, all’s well that ends $25. ISBN: 978-1-4391-9830-8 Visitors from your country visited you To bring news of the axor (the death march) That every Armenian strived to endure CC AA LLEENNDDAARR There was no end to it all Over a cup of coffee They bid goodnight To tell more the next time MASSACHUSETTS Other visitors APRIL 16 — Annual Bazaar, Armenian Sisters’ Academy, Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., featuring kebabs and baked goods, children’s activ - Had more horrific stories to tell ities, fun for the whole family. 20 Pelham Road, Lexington. For more Of the hell they went thru information, call (781) 861-8303 or visit www.ArmenianSistersAcademy.org. Before they came here APRIL 28 – May 1 — 109th Annual Diocesan Assembly hosted by Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, Boston Park Plaza Hotel; log onto www.htaac.org/assembly for Assembly events, So Ma I know why you weep including those open to the community, and registration. For further Because the worst happened info, contact Holy Trinity at (617) 354-0632 or [email protected]. To your loved ma and pa MAY 1 — St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show, Sunday, 2 p.m., at Oakley And your family of four Country Club, 410 Belmont St., Watertown. Donation, $60. For tick - That never made it here ets, contact Roupina (617) 543-9951 or Salpi (617) 750-2498. MAY 1 — Martyr’s Day 96th anniversary observance, sponsored (1961) by the Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee of Merrimack Valley, 3 p.m. Wood Hill Middle School, 11 Cross St., Andover, featuring Yeraz Dance Ensemble of New York. Adult admis - sion, $10; students free. Refreshments to follow. Prof. Rita Kuyumjian, pictured above, will May MAY 7 — Spring Dance sponsored by the AWWA to benefit the Armenian Nursing Home. Featuring the Jason Naroian ensemble give a presentation on her book, Trilogy- BY RUTH AROIAN at the Armenian Cultural and Educational Center, 47 Nichols Ave., April 24, 1915, Before and After-The lives of Watertown, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Tickets are $25. For tickets, call Survivors , on Sunday, April 17, at 7 p.m., at Melanie Khederian at (617) 694-1057 or e-mail mkhederi - Tekeyan Center, 825 Rue Manoogian, St. I walk on this lonely road [email protected] Laurent, Quebec, sponsored by the Tekeyan MAY 17 — 12th Annual St. James Armenian Church Golf To see nature’s beauty as it unfolds Cultural Association. Tournament, Marlborough Country Club. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, The trees showing their leaves ladies are invited. For details and reservations, call Ron Tashjian (508) Berry bushes flowering 209-0118 or Dick Janjigian (781) 329-4398. MAY 21 — “Hiking in Armenia’s Mountains, Valleys and Villages,” Ready to form its fruit an illustrated talk covering the Siunik area of Southern Armenia, Birds have flown back from the south given by Joe Dadgigian and Dik Dagavarian of Merrimack Valley, 6 Sponsored by Knights and Daughters of Vartan, Inc. Co-sponsored p.m., ARS Community Center, 142 Liberty St., Lowell. Presented by by AGBU, Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian National And picking up twigs the Lowell ARF Committee; dinner and program, $20 adults, $10 Committee of America, ADL-Ramgavars, Armenian Council of To build their nests on the trees students. America with the participation of: Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), Prelacy of the Armenian Church of America Squirrels too scurrying about NEW JERSEY (Eastern), Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Looking for acorns Catholic Eparchy for US and Canada, AYF, Armenian Youth APRIL 13 — Presentation of Dr. Rita Kuyumjian’s Trilogy-April 24, Organizations, Armenian University and College Clubs. For free bus That they missed last fall 1915, Before and After-The lives of the Survivors. Sponsored by transportation to and from Times Square, call Diocese (212) 686- Everything is on time the Tekeyan Cultural Association, Wednesday, 8 p.m. Speaker, Dr. 0710; Prelacy (212) 689-7810; NJ, Sona (201) 746-0409, (551) 427- Anie Kalaydjian. St. Leon Armenian Church Hall, 12-61 Saddle River 8763; Holy Martyrs, John (781) 631-2247; St. Sarkis, Ruben, (917) On this day in May Road, Fair Lawn. For info, call (201) 406-9771. 992-8501; Vartanantz, Kostan, (201) 741-9789; Paramus, Andy, As I wait for strawberries MAY 21 — Tekeyan Cultural Association’s Mher Megerdchian (201) 368-2791; Holy Cross NJ, Very Rev. Vazken Karayan (201) 865- To ripen in June Theatrical Group presents comedy master, Krikor Satamian, from 2790; Queens Armenian Center, Raffi, (646) 288-6769 and Los Angeles, in a one-man stand-up comedy show, at 8 p.m. at the Brooklyn, Tigran, (978) 945-9548 or visit www.knightsofvartan.org, Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St. John the Theologian, 353 E. Clinton click April 24, http://april24nyc.com, www.armenianradionj.com or Ave., Tenafly. Donation: $65. For reservations and more info, call: www.theforgotten.org. Marie Zokian (201) 745-8850 or Noushig Atamian at (718) 344-5582. CANADA NEW YORK APRIL 17 — Presentation of Dr. Rita Kuyumjian’s Trilogy-April 24, Advertize in the MAY 1 — Armenian Genocide Commemoration at Times Square. 1915, Before and After-The lives of the Survivors. Sponsored by Be There. Turkey is Guilty of Genocide, Denying the undeniable is a the Tekeyan Cultural Association. Sunday, 7 p.m., Tekeyan Center, Mirror-Spectator Crime. Sunday, 2 p.m., 43rd and Broadway, New York City. 825 Rue Manoogian St., Laurent, Quebec. 14 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- Turkey Prepares for Genocide Centennial

The Ottoman Turkish Empire was crushed in a collision with By Edmond Y. Azadian European and Russian Empires and it suffered war casualties, Spectator which had nothing to do with the Armenians. In fact, many Armenians drafted in the Ottoman Army were killed at the The year 2015 is around the corner, and Turkey is watching that Gallipoli campaign. date and preparing itself with visible apprehension. It is a chal - Mr. Erdogan is carried away with supreme demagoguery, when lenge for Turkish leaders as it is a challenge for the Armenians. It he claims that no Genocide was committed by his ancestors, chal - is an open question which party will reach the finish line first. lenging Armenians to produce one single piece of proof, knowing Established 1932 The Genocide centennial will be a watershed in history, but full well that any challenge to his claim will land the challenger in An ADL Publication which party’s case will win most points remains to be seen. jail by virtue of Turkey’s penal code (Article 310), even if that chal - As the Turks prepare to face the challenges of that landmark lenger is Turkey’s only Nobel Prize winner. anniversary, Armenians have yet to come up with a master plan — But the foreign minister is a more suave scholar who knows that either in Armenia or the diaspora — though hopefully it will be Turkey’s outright denial has brought nothing but embarrassment EDITOR Alin K. Gregorian done collectively. in the past, therefore, he has put a smile on Turkey’s foreign poli - Contrary to Hitler’s cynical remark in the 1939 about who cy, although a foxy one. Therefore, he delves into a lengthy expla - ASSOCIATE EDITOR remembered then the annihilation of the Armenians two decades nation, presenting some falsehoods as historic facts. Aram Arkun earlier, today the world is more aware than ever about the “We would like to settle our relations with Armenia and the dias - Armenian Genocide. Some 20 countries have adopted resolutions ART DIRECTOR pora. For that we should not place all Armenians in one category, Marc Mgrditchian or laws about acknowledging the Armenian Genocide, but most and assume that they all have one-sided views, that way perhaps a importantly, Turkish scholars and the media have cracked the wall new radical era of reconciliation opens up in front of us,” says the PRODUCTION of silence and have been educating their public about the undeni - minister, getting into more dangerous waters when he makes his Dilani Yogaratnam able historic facts. But, mind you, with all the rhetoric of those historic references about Turkish-Armenian relations, that “they scholars and journalists who have spearheaded the apology move - have co-existed for 10 centuries, extending to the Battle of ment, none of them has advocated giving out any compensation. Manzikert [1071]. Until the beginning of the 20th century the rela - CONTRIBUTORS: Although their position is diametrically opposed to that of the gov - tions have been extremely peaceful and harmonious. No matter Elizabeth Aprahamian, Daphne Abeel, Dr. ernment, both positions coincide when it comes to the issue of how much we may resort to legal and political means, the impor - Haroutiune Arzoumanian, Edmond compensation. tant thing is to overcome the psychological barrier.” Azadian, Prof. Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana In preparation for the centennial, the Turkish government has Only a cynical diplomat can make those statements with a Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, been putting out feelers. We cannot rule out that even journalist straight face, overlooking the historic facts, where Armenians had Kevork Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian- Hasan Cemal’s appearance in a recent panel in California making the status of raya (slave) and the Turks were the slave masters. Placido , H arut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, some pleasing remarks to the Armenians, even using the term Beginning with the insurrection of Zaitoun in 1862, all the way Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian, “genocide” was of that nature. extending to the uprising of Mush and the Hamiddian Massacres Taleen Babayan Another feeler appeared in the Turkish newspaper, Sabah , of 1894-96, there was anything but “peaceful and harmonious” which was reporting a government announcement that some rep - coexistence between these two peoples. CORRESPONDENTS: resentatives may take part in April 24 commemorations in an Despite all these seemingly soothing remarks, Turkey reacted Armenia - Hagop Avedikian effort to overcome psychological barriers between Armenia and angrily when the Argentinean Judge Norberto Oyarbide ruled Boston - Nancy Kalajian Turkey and engage in a dialogue with the Armenian Diaspora. on April 1 that the Turkish state “committed the crime of geno - Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian But most revealing of all are the pronouncements of the foreign cide against the Armenian people” based on his 12 years of Contributing Photographers: minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, who first announced that the year research. Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair 2015 will be a year to deal with Armenian issues. That announce - In light of that reaction, one can conclude with certainty that Hovsepian ment may be interpreted in many ways. It may mean that we will the Turkish government has not moved an inch towards the goal bury the Armenian Genocide issue under some cosmetic gestures, of reconciliation and all the rhetoric is intended towards two pur - The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published or we will deal with it head on. poses: a) to derail, once more the use of the term “genocide” in weekly, except two weeks in July, by: The foreign minister gave an interview to CNN-Turk, on March President Barack Obama’s 2011 statement on Martyr’s Day com - Baikar Association, Inc. 26, which mostly consisted of artfully spinning a web of diplomat - memoration; b) to prepare for the challenges of all Armenians in 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 ic duplicities, many of them open to interpretation. While Prime making 2015 a significant year for the recognition of the Genocide. Telephone: 617-924-4420 Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has already “resolved” the The Turks are already armed for 2015. They have certainly pre - FAX: 617-924-2887 Genocide issue with outright denial, the foreign minister instead pared their diplomatic, scholarly and political arsenal to defeat any www.mir rorspectator.com speaks of understanding the Armenian pain, reciprocally expecting Armenian onslaught. E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com Armenians to understand their pain, as if the World War I Turkish Then, where is our master plan? Even the fate of the Genocide For advertising: [email protected] casualties had been caused by the Armenians. He already begins Museum in Washington is in limbo and it may not open in 2015. the dialogue on the wrong foot. His argument begins with false Granted, many individual and group activities have been under - New York/New Jersey Office premises, when he says what is “deportation” for Armenians it is taken to produce scholarly books, to erect monuments and to 560 Sylvan Ave. , Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 “Dardanelles” and “Sarkamish” for us, comparing apples and launch political campaigns but an overall plan has yet to shape up. (201) 800-1164 oranges. The Turks are ready for the challenge. Are we?

SUBSCRIPTION RATES : U.S.A. 2nd Class $75 a year 1st Class $120 a year Canada Air Mail $125 a year Obama’s Confidante Shows Staying Power All Other Countries Air Mail $190 a year DUBLIN (Irish Sunday Independent) — A turned to Power possibly taking over the role ciled herself with the current secretary of Display advertising r at e: $7 per column inch 40-year-old Dubliner looks set to become the should Obama fend off his Republican chal - state, but the truce hangs on Power not step - most influential Irish person in the world, lenger next year. ping on Clinton’s toes. And that involves stay - writes Donal Lynch. The 40-year-old Dublin woman has long had ing as much as possible out of the limelight. © 2010 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator When she appeared at Columbia University the president’s ear, and several leading conser - Still, it would be unfortunate if such a high- Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA in New York last week, Samantha Power vative commentators — including Glenn Beck profile appointment caused Power to suppress and additional mailing offices. looked pale and drawn. Wrapping her red of Fox News — have already called her a shoo- her natural extroversion. There has always ISSN 0004-234X mane around her like a protective shawl, she in for the job when it arises. been a touch of glamour and celebrity to go did all she could to avoid the phalanx of A laudatory profile in the New York Times with the Pulitzer Prize and Ivy League degrees POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, reporters who had turned out to listen to her also talked up her credentials last week and (she has two). Watertown, MA 02471-0302 speak. The reason for her reticence was simple: pointed out that her husband, constitutional Even as she grew closer to Obama she posed she knew that a couple of hours later law scholar Cass Sunstein, already runs the in an evening gown for Men’s Vogue, and her President Obama would address the nation White House’s Office of Information and writing on genocide brought her into contact and the world on the subject of the air strikes Regulatory Affairs. Should his wife be appoint - with George Clooney, who has campaigned for against Col. Gaddafi in Libya, and she has ed to the secretary of state post, she would Darfur. She still calls him a friend. Copying for other than personal use or learned from bitter experience — she had to become the most powerful Irish person in the In person she is an imposing presence; the internal reference is prohibited without leave his primary campaign after calling world. phrase “genocide chic” has been used to express permission of the copyright Hillary Clinton a “monster” — that she cannot Not everyone would be pleased if this hap - describe her. You can see why they once got owner. Address requests for reprints or allow herself to become the story. pens, and assuredly Power has her critics: US Julianne Moore to play her on Broadway, even back issues to: Better to leave them with a good quote — media reports have depicted her as the author if Power herself wasn’t thrilled with the per - Baikar Association, Inc. that failure to defend the no-fly zone would of the attacks on Libya — an unpopular con - formance. 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 have been “extremely chilling, deadly and flict for Americans, who see their country She’s been in America for three decades indeed a stain on our collective conscience” — already mired in two unwinnable wars. An arti - now. Before that her parents lived in and get out of there. cle on the generally liberal Salon.com phrased Ballsbridge in Dublin. Her father, from Still, when Obama later used almost exactly it somewhat uncouthly, suggesting Obama had Athlone, was a dentist and her Cork-born Check us out at the same language in his speech and Hillary been goaded into war by a coalition of women, mother was training to be a doctor. The mar - Clinton followed up by repeating that she including Power and Clinton. riage was on the rocks and her mother went mirrorspectator.com would not seek another term as secretary of The Irish academic (she is also a professor at for further study to America, taking Samantha state, the talk around Washington inevitably Harvard) and presidential adviser has recon - continued on next page S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

he is most vulnerable due to his low ratings, as he launch - 8. Last Christmas, while the Senate was in recess, he cir - es his re-election campaign. cumvented the “hold” placed by US senators, and appoint - Armenians do not need to beg the president to utter the ed Matt Bryza as ambassador to Azerbaijan. words Armenian Genocide. A more popular head of state — It is crucial that a large number of Armenian-Americans President Ronald Reagan — used those words on April 22, show up on April 20 and 21, not only to protest against the My Turn 1981, almost 30 years to the day of President Obama’s visit president, but also to publicize their demands through the to Los Angeles. The only reason to protest Obama’s visit media covering President Obama’s visit. Should Armenians By Harut Sassounian would be to let him know that Armenians will no longer be remain silent, they would be sending the wrong message to duped when politicians make false campaign promises to politicians that making empty promises to Armenians to gain their support, and ignore them after the election! The get their money and votes, and ignoring them after the Armenians Should Confront Armenian slogan for the 2012 presidential election should election would have no negative consequences to their President Obama During his be: “Not one vote and not one penny for Obama!” political careers! Here is the list of President Obama’s multiple sins on Armenians need to wake up from their lethargy. If they California Visit Next Week Armenian issues: want elected officials to take them seriously, they must 1. He repeatedly pledged to acknowledge the Armenian reward those who support their issues by helping to reelect It is a shame that the largest Armenian community in the Genocide during the 2008 presidential campaign and did them, and punish those who make false promises by work - diaspora has failed to take advantage of President Barack not keep his word after the election. ing to defeat them. Obama’s visits to California to protest his refusal to 2. To make matters worse, his administration actively A few days after his visit to California, President Obama acknowledge the Armenian Genocide. Last October, when opposed the adoption of the 2010 congressional resolution will issue his annual April 24 statement, which will proba - he traveled to Los Angeles and Glendale, not a single on the Armenian Genocide. bly exclude once again the term Armenian Genocide. Armenian confronted him at his public appearances. 3. He significantly cut the amount of foreign aid given to Armenian protesters must make it clear to the president To make up for their negligence, Armenians in California Armenia and Artsakh (Karabagh), contrary to his campaign that playing word games with genocide is offensive and have a golden opportunity to show that they are deeply promise. Moreover, his administration did not spend the that he will pay a political price for his unwillingness to tell troubled when the highest official of the land does not full amount of aid Congress allocated to Artsakh. the truth! keep his pledge on the Armenian Genocide. 4. He pressured Armenia in 2009 to sign the infamous President Obama will be in San Francisco on April 20, at President Obama will be in San Francisco on April 20 “Protocols” with Turkey. 5 p.m., at the Nob Hill Masonic Center, 1111 California St., and in Los Angeles on April 21 — three days before the 5. He made no attempts to press Turkey into lifting its and in Culver City on April 21, at 4:30 p.m., at the Sony 96th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide — to launch his blockade of Armenia. Studios, 10202 W. Washington Blvd. Thousands of reelection campaign with major fundraisers publicized as 6. He remained silent in the face of repeated saber-rat - Armenians should show up at these two locations to “Obama Victory Fund 2012.” tling by Azerbaijan’s president against Armenia and protest President Obama’s record of broken promises! During the next 18 months, Armenian-Americans should Artsakh, ignoring his campaign pledge to support As a former Obama supporter, I will be standing outside hold demonstrations at every one of the president’s cam - Artsakh’s self-determination. the Sony Studios on April 21 to express my profound dis - paign stops throughout the country until the November 7. He and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton did not appointment in his handling of Armenian issues and to let 2012 presidential election. This is an opportune moment to respond to repeated requests to meet with Armenian- him know that Armenian-Americans will not support his highlight the president’s lack of credibility, at a time when American community leaders to hear their concerns. reelection.

Obama’s Confidante LETTERS Shows Staying Power from previous page Prehistoric Armenia Is a Mystery and her 5-year-old brother with her. The brogue was one of the first things to go — carefully removed through practice in front of a mirror in Pittsburgh To the Editor: Middle East and even America, poured Armenians for Darius? Another prob - — but she would regret trying to fit in. Edmond Azadian, my good friend and in jubilantly to establish the first signif - lem concerns Armenian archaeology. Her father died in 1983 and a peripatetic childhood took associate for 35 years, has perhaps over - icant Armenian entity since the collapse We can identify nothing about the pre - Samantha to Kuwait City (for further training for her by- stated himself (M-S April 2, page 14) of Ani in 1375. Thus it might not be historic Armenians through archaeolog - then highly qualified mother), and then from Pittsburgh on when he says the Treaty of Moscow and appropriate to make a big deal about ical means. Our earliest artifacts know to Atlanta where she spent her teenage years. Kars in 1931 “gave away historic the 19th anniversary of the Russian to be Armenian come in the early fifth “I can clearly remember my first day of American public Armenian territory to Turkey.” Kars turnover of the District of Kars to century AD when the Armenians iden - school in Pittsburgh. I had to wear my Mount Anville was part of the Ottoman Empire from Turkey, which the Russians had held tified themselves in writing. Yet archae - School uniform in front of all those kids because my mom the 13th century until 1830, when the only a century. ologists have found plenty of earlier evi - didn’t have any money for new clothes,” she told the Russian army under General Alexei I first came into the embrace of dence for advanced civilizations in the Sunday Independent in an interview two years ago. “It was Ermolov, and assuredly with the sup - Armenian culture almost 50 years ago sub-Caucasus and eastern Anatolia. totally humiliating for life. The shirt, black leather shoes port of Armenian troops, took over the when, in the mid-1960s, I began my However, none of this excavated detri - and pleated skirt. Years of therapy later, I’m still not over it. territory, attaching it to the Russian study of the Classical Armenian lan - tus can assuredly be called Armenian. A “If you really want to know how I got interested in war Gubernia of Yerevan, but called the new guage under Prof. Avedis Sanjian at continuum of, say, pottery cannot be zones, you’d have to go back to that first day of school in acquisition the “District of Kars.” UCLA. My focus was the linguistic traced back from early historic times on the Mount Anville uniform.” Armenians were doubtfully in the reconstruction of proto-Armenian, into the archaeological past. And As a teenager she won a place at Yale University, but majority then. Nor is it likely they were though over time my interests expand - though Greek travelers since the fifth rather than diving straight into academia she decided to a majority even in the Gubernia of ed. I first went to Armenia in 1971, then century BC have written of the work as a journalist in the Balkans. She covered the Yerevan, in what might be called for 13 months (1974-75) I lived in Armenians, we can identify exactly no Yugoslav wars for the Boston Globe, the Economist and the Russian Armenia, secured by the Yerevan with my family, working on an geographical place they wrote about. New Republic . Russians in 1828 from the Persians academic project, and I have returned The enormous amount of material that “I saw those images of the emaciated men standing under the treaty of Turkmanchay. The well over a dozen times for periods up has been found in the sub-Caucasus behind the barbed wire and it was a siren and a summons,” centers of Armenian culture were then to three months or only a single week. cannot be claimed as Armenian. It she said. “It was naive to think that there could be any ben - probably in Baku, and even more And then, like many scholars, I devel - instead might be Urartian, or Persian or efit in one more voice to the chorus calling for action, but Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. At this oped a critical affection for the culture Hittite or whatever. Prehistoric that’s how I thought. I didn’t feel like I was taking a mortal time Yerevan was little more than a I studied. Armenia remains a mystery. Part of the risk, but as soon as I got there I wanted to be in Sarajevo, remote outpost. The Armenians, howev - One of my disappointments was the Middle Ages remains a dark age for the where the action was. Before I became I journalist I had no er, maintained commercial control in lack of interest the Armenians had for Armenians as well. For several hundred idea I had this ailment.” Tbilisi, and built dozens of Armenian their dynamic past; what they seemed years culture and learning largely col - Her way of getting this out of her system was to write A churches, both in the Tbilisi area and to care most about in their heritage was lapsed. The surviving poetry is poor, Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide . The elsewhere in central and eastern their tragic near-destruction in Anatolia the political history is vague and the book discussed America’s responses to genocides in the Georgia. If there were a focus to by the Turks beginning in the 1890s Armenian Church had fallen into 20th century, from the Armenian Genocide to the ethnic Armenian culture, it was in commerce. and continuing through 1918. Their despair, not to be reborn till the cleansing of the Kosovo war, and it won Power the Pulitzer Even the Russians in the 19th century preceding 2,500 years seemed of little Armenian cultural renaissance in the Prize for Non-Fiction in 2003. recognized the Armenian commercial interest to them. Yet what happened 18th century. The details of what was Barack Obama read it over Christmas 2004 and contact - superiority over the Georgians, who earlier is so fascinating. It took, for happening in those hundreds of largely ed her with words of praise. He recruited her to his 2008 resented it greatly. example, the ancient Persians, a huge lost years have yet to be reconstructed. Democratic primary campaign, but she was forced out after When the modern Armenian state and mighty people, four great cam - There is so much to think about. a Scottish newspaper shafted her by printing an off- the- was formed in the south Caucasus in paigns following 525 BC to overcome Surely it possible that more intellectual record remark about Hillary Clinton. She remained an influ - 1918, the Armenians in Russian the Armenians. energy can be turned from re-studying ence on the president, however, and after the bad blood of Armenia were possibly out-numbered by But it appears that the leader of the the tragedy of the genocide, indeed one the bitterly fought primary was dealt with by appointing Muslims who lived in numerous small Persian campaign was an Armenian of the lowest periods of Armenian his - Clinton secretary of state, the way was open for Power’s khanates ruled by Persians, as was the named Dadarshi, as identified by tory since the Mongol invasion of 1350, return. Khanate of Nakhichevan (though there Darius, the Persian king. This is known and be given over to thinking about the And now, with curious symmetry, the Irishwoman might the Armenians were likely the majority, from his monumental cuneiform other 2,500 years of impressive history. be about to take Hillary Clinton’s job. After the president and certainly the earliest significant inscription still standing outside Surely that would reinforce Armenian gave his speech last week, the White House press office was inhabitants). With the establishment of Hamadan, in Besitun, Iran. There is pride rather than this continuous and careful to say that Power’s remarks had echoed Obama and the Armenian Soviet Republic, great complexity here. Did the Persians intense examination of disaster. not the other way around. If the rumors in Washington are Armenians from all over Russia and the overwhelm the Armenians for Darius, — John C. Greppin true, there may soon be no need for such pretence. Caucasus, as well as from Europe, the or did some Armenians overcome other Ohio 16 S ATURDAY , A PRIL 16, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

Eastern Diocese Names Gov. Deval Patrick ‘Friend of Armenians’ for 2011 ADL Members Meet with

PATRICK, from page 1 overcame obstacles — political and economic Archbishop Barsamian in New York excellence grounded in tolerance and under - — to make his strong positive mark on the standing. Commonwealth’s educational and scientific ADL, from page 1 “Let this park be a permanent tribute to establishments, while accomplishing major developments concerning the latter. Similarly, he presented the attitude of the that,” Patrick concluded. reforms that had eluded elected leaders for Istanbul-Armenian community and the Turkish state towards the Armenian The applause thundering from the crowd decades. Patriarchate of Istanbul. He praised the widespread construction endeavors of was more than a response to noble senti - For the local Armenian community, Patrick the Mother See, whether in Holy Echmiadzin or various regions of the homeland. ments: it was an indication of the depth of emerged as an insightful and courageous Barsamian compared the plan of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, in con - respect and friendship that had blossomed supporter and as an outspoken advocate for nection with the expansion of the Mother See, to the example of the Vatican. between the Armenian community and the the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. In referring to the spiritual awakening of the homeland, he said that the dynamic Massachusetts governor. When plans for Armenian Heritage Park Armenian Apostolic faith has already begun to enter communities and families Patrick was re-elected to a second term as were met with political opposition, Patrick’s with a quicker momentum, thus becoming an obstacle to the sects which had governor in November 2010. Prior to that, support was instrumental in moving the pro - begun some 20 years ago. He also highly praised the dedication of youth to cler - his life had charted a path from the South ject forward. Often working behind the ical and spiritual service, which enriches the church with new strength, as well Side of Chicago to the US Justice scenes and at some political risk, the gover - as the publishing activity of the Mother See. Department, Fortune 500 boardrooms and nor helped the park project overcome nega - The Primate gave information about some initiatives and events in connection the Massachusetts State House. tive voices — and realize a vision of the park with the commemoration of the 60th birthday of the catholicos. In each of these capacities, Patrick has as refuge for all people. Barsamian also addressed the topic of church unity. He declared that an open - been guided by advice his grandmother once In his interactions with the community, hearted dialogue is continuing between the two sees. While in the first instance gave him: Hope for the best — and work for it. Patrick frequently draws on his own back - he considered the future of an organizational union within the structure of the He came to Massachusetts at the age of 14: ground of hardship, opportunity and achieve - East Coast of America to be bright and realistic, he assured that the traditional a motivated student who had overcome diffi - ment to convey his solidarity with Armenians. structure would be maintained within this diocese under the patronage of the cult circumstances in Chicago to earn a schol - “I stand with you as family,” he told a large Mother See. arship to the prestigious Milton Academy. gathering at Watertown’s St. James Church The ADL delegation was headed by the ADL District Committee’s Co-Chairman The young Deval Patrick saw the scholarship last spring. Having toured the church, which Papken Megerian, who is a member of the Diocesan Council, and included party as an opportunity to excel, and he has viewed was built in the hard times of the Depression, members Vartan Ilandjian, Krikor Salbashian, Dr. Vaghenag Tarpinian and his subsequent public service as repayment he reflected that it stood as a symbol of “the Hagop Vartivarian, who is chairman of the ADL Press Bureau. for the opportunities he received. tenacity of the Armenian community;...proof The Primate praised the ADL and its close relationship with the Diocese and He became the first in his family to attend of what the human spirit is capable of, under various responsible clerical and lay individuals in the latter’s parishes. He par - college — Harvard — and went on to its Law the most difficult circumstances.” ticularly praised the Armenian Mirror-Spectator for its quality and ideological School. A clerkship for a federal judge led to The same chords of personal solidarity and service. He also stressed the irreplaceable role the Tekeyan Cultural Association his career as an attorney and business execu - universal value provided the key signature in plays within American-Armenian national life. tive, rising to senior positions at Texaco and his remarks at the Armenian Heritage Park Coca-Cola. In 1994, President Bill Clinton groundbreaking. appointed Patrick as assistant attorney gen - “I am so proud to stand with you today,” he eral for civil rights, the nation’s top civil said, “to pay tribute to human perseverance. rights post. Because that is what this park represents. importance well beyond even that tragedy in it shows itself.” He and his wife, Diane, have been married Yes, it is an acknowledgment of an historic human history. Because as long as there has The 109th Diocesan Assembly will be host - for more than 25 years, and have two grown fact: that the Armenian Genocide is real. It been human history, there has also been ed by the Holy Trinity parish of Cambridge. daughters. happened. It must be acknowledged. It can - human tragedy. And it is absolutely essential For information on the banquet and this In 2006 came his election as not be denied.” that we take occasion to pay tribute to the year’s Diocesan Assembly, visit Massachusetts governor, and Patrick again “But,” he continued, “it has value and perseverance of the human spirit — wherever www.htaac.org.