California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Non-Profit and Armenian Students Organization U.S. Postage 5245 N. Backer Ave. M/S PB 4 PAID Fresno, CA 93740-8001 Permit No. 262 Change Service Requested FRESNO, CA HYE SHARZHOOM th Armenian Action FA| December 2012 Vol. 34, No. 2 (120) Ethnic Supplement to The Collegian Richard Hovannisian Presents Armenian Studies Program Hosts Reception New Work on “Armenian Smyrna” to Mark Official Opening of Printing Exhibit An d r e w Es g u e r r a St a f f Wr i t e r On Sunday, October 14, members of the San Joaquin Valley Armenian community, and Fresno State students, faculty, and administrators, converged in the Henry Madden Library for a reception marking the official opening of the exhibit “The 500th Anniversary of Armenian Printing.” The event was sponsored by the Armenian Studies Program, the College of Arts and Humanities, and the Henry Madden Library. Photo: Nabil Sakib Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Dr. Richard Ho- A year-long flurry of events Left to right: Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Dr. Kevork vannisian, and Dr. Sergio La Porta. Photo: Erica Magarian has been taking place around Bardakjian, Dr. John Welty, Dr. William Covino, Dr. Vida the world to celebrate the 500th Samiian, and Dr. Sergio La Porta. u r e n g a n e ss i a n S O inferno that destroyed the anniversary of the Armenian literary tradition. This momentous the exhibit an opportunity to see St a f f Wr i t e r Armenian and Greek sections of printed word. Attendees not only milestone began with the printing how the advent of printing was an the city of Smyrna/Izmir in 1922. learned of the significance of the of the Urbatagirk [Friday Book], important moment in Armenian A frequent visitor to the Dr. Hovannisian is Professor rapid adoption and application a book of prayers printed in 1512, history,” stated Prof. Barlow Der Fresno State campus, Dr. Richard Emeritus of Armenian and Near of the movable printing press by Hagop Meghapart in Venice. Mugrdechian. “The Armenian Hovannisian was invited by the Eastern Studies at UCLA, and is technology by Armenians, but “The books and manuscripts Armenian Studies Program to a distinguished Chancellor Fellow also of the generation of a new on display gave those who viewed Se e Bo o k Ex h i b i t Pa g e 2 deliver an informative lecture, in Holocaust History, at Chapman “Armenian Smyrna” on Friday, Sona Haroutyunian-10th Kazan Visiting Professor October 5, about the terrible Se e Ho v a n n i s i a n Pa g e 3 Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n interesting topics. Armenian Students Organization St a f f Wr i t e r The Henry S. Khanzadian Kazan Visiting Professorship in Continues Active Semester One of the interesting aspects Armenian Studies was established of Fresno State’s Armenian in 2000, with a generous Studies Program includes the endowment that provides support annual selection of a distinguished for the visiting position and allows professor to visit and offer an the Armenian Studies Program to Armenian Studies course related invite, for one semester each year, to modern Armenian history, an internationally recognized including the Genocide of 1915, scholar in contemporary Armenian and the formation of the Armenian affairs. Republic. Students have the Dr. Sona Haroutyunian, the opportunity to take such a course Photo: ASP Archive ASP Photo: and to gain insight into these Se e Haroutyunian Pa g e 7 Archive ASP Photo: Kooyumjian Foundation Grants $35,500 to ASP St a f f Re p o r t Foundation has made a generous outreach activities, special donation of $35,500 to the conferences, and scholarships. Armenian Studies Program Armenian Studies Program and This is the fourth year of Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der the Center for Armenian Studies. support from the Foundation. The Mugrdechian announced that the The gift will be used for a ASP expresses its appreciation to ASO members gathered for a bowling night at the USU. Thomas A. Kooyumjian Family variety of activities, including the Kooyumjian Foundation. Ru z a n Or k u s y a n about the Armenian culture. Leon S. Peters Foundation Gift of $30,000 to ASP t a f f r i t e r S W In celebration of Halloween, Leon S. Peters was respected 1959. Since then, the Peters ASO organized a “Scary Movie St a f f Re p o r t as a businessman, civic leader, Foundation has become one of the As the fall semester comes to Night” complete with delectable and philanthropist who lived and community’s biggest benefactors, an end, the leaves have turned a treats and a costume contest. Armenian Studies Program worked according to the highest giving to higher education, beautiful array of warm red colors, Everyone had fun attending Coordinator Prof. Barlow Der ethical standards. He cherished his hospitals, and arts organizations. the air is fresh with the smell of with creative costumes and Mugrdechian announced that community and considered its well Gifts from the Peters Family and autumn, and professors continue participating in a mock fashion the Leon S. Peters Foundation being his personal responsibility. their Foundations include naming to find joy in assigning countless show for the chance to win the has made a generous donation of Leon Peters and his brother, of the Leon S. Peters Business term papers, giving quizzes and grand prize for best costume. “ $30,000 to the Armenian Studies Pete Peters, established Valley Building and the auditorium of tests. Despite the chaos that The fun continued into Program at Fresno State. Foundry and Machine Works, the University Business Center ensues in the second half of the fall November. ASO organized a The gift will be used for a a world-recognized supplier of that was named for Alice Peters semester, the Armenian Students bowling event at the Fresno State variety of activities, including agricultural equipment, and it in 1988. Organization has been very active USU bowling alley. Members scholarships, outreach activities, became one of the region’s most Many other organizations have and continues to provide members relaxed and enjoyed refreshments an Armenia summer study trip, and successful businesses, allowing with opportunities to socialize, general support for the Program. them to start the foundation in Se e Pe t e r s Pa g e 6 volunteer, and spread awareness Se e ASO Pa g e 8 2 Hye Sharzhoom December 2012 Armenian Studies Program Book/Video/CD Archival Gifts California State University, Fresno Armenian Studies Program Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, Prof. Sergio La Porta, and the Armenian Studies Program would like to thank the donors, authors, and publishers for the following books, periodicals, videos, Spring 2013 Schedule of Courses and archival gifts, either offered personally, or to the Program. Course Units Time Day Instructor Dr. Levon Advoyan, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C, for two • Arm 1B-Elementary Armenian 4 10:00A-11:50A MW B Der Mugrdechian copies of To Know Wisdom and Instruction: A Visual Survey of (Class #32105) the Armenian Literary Tradition from the Library of Congress • Hum 10-Hum Antqty/Ren 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh S La Porta (Washington, D.C.: Library of Congress, 2012). 100 pp., color plates. This is a catalog of an exhibit held at the Library of (Class #32209) Congress on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of Armenian General Education-Arts & Humanities, Area C2 printing. • Arm 2A-Inter Armenian 3 9:00A-9:50A MWF B Der Mugrdechian Lucille Apcar, Mariposa, California, for a variety of books and CDs. (Class #36275) Dr. Vahé Baladouni, Falls Church, Virginia, for the book, Hmayeak Upper Division Armenian Studies Courses Shems: A Poet of Pure Spirit in English and Armenian, (University Press of America, 2010), by Vahé Baladouni and John Gery. 102pp. • ArmS 108B-Arm History II 3 9:30A-10:45A TuTh B Der Mugrdechian This book is devoted to the life of Hmayeak Shems (Hmayeak (Class #32104) Saprichian), an Armenian poet, 1896-1952. General Education-Arts & Humanities, Area IC Boghos Armenak Lakissian, Glendale, California, for his book • Arm 148-Masterp. of Arm Culture 3 12:30P-1:45P TuTh S La Porta Aratta-Armina: Haykakan Srbazan Lernashkharh (2012). 374pp. (Class #33058) In Armenian. Dr. Gerard Libaridian, Cambridge, Massachussets, for the books, NEW COURSE FOR SPRING-KAZAN VISITING PROFESSOR Hayots Patmakan Hnaravorutyunnere, VI-VIII Darerum and Mez • ArmS 120T-Arm. Genocide & Trans 3 11:00A-12:15P TuTh Antsanot “Vartanats” Paterazme by Hamlet Davtyan, (Yerevan, (Class #35933) 2010). In Armenian. This course will cover the Armenian Genocide as it is reflected in literature and translation. Marc Mamigonian, NAASR, Belmont, MA, for the booklet History in the Making: NAASR’s Leadership in Armenian Studies (Belmont, For more information call the Armenian Studies Program at 278-2669 MA: 2012). This 28-page booklet gives a history of NAASR’s or visit our offices in the Peters Business Building, Room 384. contributions to the field of Armenian Studies. The booklet also discusses NAASR’s efforts to establish the first endowed Chair in Get a Minor in Armenian Studies. Check on requirements Armenian Studies at Harvard University in 1959. for the Minor in Armenian Studies in the 2012-2013 catalog: Alice Navasargian, Glendale, California, for her book, The Immortals http://www.csufresno.edu/catoffice/current/armstudhd.html (California, 2012). This is a pictorial anthology of historiographic works, and a brief history of the Armenians in Persia. Included is a series of biographic portraits of important Iranian born Armenians. 530pp. Illustrated with color and black and white plates. Helene Pilibosian, Watertown, MA, for ten copies each of two books HYE SHARZHOOM of poetry by her, Carvings from an Heirloom: Oral History Poems and History’s Twists: The Armenians. FA| As with many cultures that have a language largely unique to their ancestors, the Armenian alphabet and language helped create a unified cultural identity for the Armenian people and is often cited as a definitive factor in the formation of Armenian identity. Dr. Kevork Bardakjian, Marie Manoogian Professor of Modern Armenian Language and Literature, at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, delivered Photo: Nabil Sakib a keynote lecture on “The Impact Margaret Ajemian Ahnert Photo: Erica Magarian of the Armenian Script and Dr. Kevork Bardakjian at Fresno State talk. stated Ahnert. Printing on Armenian Identity in the Armenian language,” and stated that Classical Armenian Ta t e v i k Ho v h a n n i s y a n Writing the book and then and Letters,” to officially open that only a national memory of standards were created to meet the St a f f Wr i t e r speaking to audiences around the Madden Library exhibit “The Armenian history existed until flourishes, expressions, wording, the country became a reason for 500th Anniversary of Armenian recorded by Armenian historians and reverence of the Bible that Author Margaret Ajemian Ahnert’s activism. The title of Printing.” of the fifth century. The conversion did not appear in the spoken Ahnert visited Fresno State on the book itself reflects how the Dr. Bardakjian brought his of Armenia to Christianity was Armenian at the time. Thursday, November 1, to share Turkish military literally knocked years of experience and research also a reason behind the creation The Armenian alphabet was the her inspiration and insight on her on the doors of Armenian in the field of Armenology to of the alphabet. root of an explosion of Armenian book The Knock At The Door: A families and deported them, often an audience who attended the The first book translated into literature, the creation of Mother’s Survival of the Armenian on short notice. Even as Ahnert opening of an exhibit on “The Armenian was the Bible. Years collective Armenian identity, and Genocide, in a lecture sponsored described her visits to different 500 Anniversary of Armenian of relying on the versions of the the development of Christianity by the Armenian Studies Program cities around the United States, Printing,” in the Henry Madden sacred texts in languages such in Armenia. and cosponsored by the Armenian she significantly used the term Library on Sunday, October 14. as Greek, had created a barrier “I will never forget the indelible General Benevolent Union, “marching” as a metaphor for the He explained through a power- between the Bible’s message and image of a dying Armenian woman Greater Fresno chapter. people who were forced to march point demonstration the revolution the Armenian people. during the Genocide writing the Ahnert, a talented writer, in the deserts and were later in the Armenian language and In this way, the Armenian Armenian alphabet in the sand to based the theme of the book on killed by the Ottoman Turks. literary traditions that began with script also contributed to the teach it to her son,” concluded Dr. her mother Ester’s stories and Ahnert has received many the creation of the Armenian creation of the new Armenian Bardakjian, providing hope for memories as a survivor of the awards for her book, among alphabet by St. Mesrob Mashtots identity, centered on Christianity the perseverance of the Armenian Armenian Genocide. For Ahnert, which are, “Best Book of 2007” in the fifth century. and the alphabet. language and culture. the book is more than a work and “Best Historical Memoir Dr. Bardakjian discussed Dr. Bardakjian also Dr. Bardakjian’s presentation of art, rather it is a way to raise of 2008.” Her book has been the topic of the invention of the hypothesized that the translation established the significance of awareness about the atrocities of translated into many languages, Armenian script, its effect on the of the Bible to Armenian led the discovery of the Armenian the past. including Armenian, Italian, Armenians, and how it became to the adaptation of grabar, alphabet and its immense impact “I don’t want land back. I French and even Turkish. so intertwined with Armenian or Classical Armenian. He on Armenian cultural history. only want them [the Turkish To open doors for future culture. He began his presentation government] to recognize what generations of Armenian discussing the history of writing they have done to the Armenians, girls, Ahnert has established Armenians on the Internet in general, with examples of and how they killed the young a scholarship in the Republic ancient cuneiform inscriptions, kids, raped the woman, and of Armenia for young women Su r e n Og a n e ss i a n such as the one from Behistun, massacred the men. They forcibly who are interested in pursuing St a f f Wr i t e r Persia, mentioning the word made the Armenian young women journalism and writing as a “Armenian” for the first time in get married to them and converted career. the year 520BC. Haytomar.com them into Islam. It was prohibited Ahnert made her lecture Dr. Bardakjian noted that Ancient Armenian Calendar for the Armenians to speak their emotional, yet engaging and before the invention of the own language—they [the Turkish funny. She amazed the audience Armenian script, “The Armenian government] wanted to eliminate with her courage and love toward Main Categories: Home, Converter, Calendar, experience had no written record the Armenians from the world,” her mother and her people. Holidays, Get Buttons, Friends, Contact and Ottoman Turkey’s defeat, the board, thus saving about 6,000 o v a n n i s i a n r o m a g e H , F P 1 Greek army was authorized by the people. Thousands more were If you heard that this was the year 4,505, would you believe it? University, this fall semester. Dr. allied powers to occupy western forced by the Turkish army to According to the often forgotten ancient Armenian calendar—which Hovannisian’s Armenian Smyrna/ Turkey, and Smyrna became the central Turkey, where they were places its starting date on the day of the legendary battle between Izmir: The Aegean Communities, base of their operations. used as a bargaining chip in the Hayk and the Babylonian King Bel—it would be. Haytomar.com is the eleventh in his series on After the Greeks unsuccessfully population exchange of refugees a website dedicated to spreading awareness about Armenia’s ancient “Historic Armenian Cities tried to enter Ankara in 1922, between Turkey and Greece. calendar, which many Armenians may not have heard of. and Provinces,” was recently and were driven back by Turkish In modern Smyrna, there is “We hope that this website will allow the ancient Armenian calendar published. nationalist forces, they made a barely a hint that the Greek and to gain worldwide recognition and popularity along with such Dr. Hovannisian began by hasty retreat for the Greek islands, Armenian quarters ever existed, calendars as the Aztec or Jacobian,” explains the home page of the giving a background of the leaving Smyrna to be occupied by save for a few buildings that were site. Started by Rouben Sardaryan and Artavazd Eghiazaryan in tragedy that had taken place in Turkish forces on September 9. converted into other uses. Dr. 2008, or the year 4,500 by the ancient calendar, the website features Smyrna, a multi-cultural city The civilians didn’t feel threatened Hovannisian photographed many a converter where one can enter dates from the Gregorian calendar with large Greek and Armenian, at first, and thought they would of these buildings during his visit and receive the equivalent date from the Armenian calendar. Users populations. Armenians had been be safe. However, four days later, to the city, and showed photos can also find an html code for a ticker that displays the converted a presence in the city since at least the Turkish army intentionally set of the former St. Mesrob School day’s date on various online forums. the 13th century as merchants, fires in the Armenian quarter— (now a museum). Also available is a page on the history of the calendar, as well as a list and the Greeks had lived in the actions that were verified by Dr. Hovannisian expressed of the names of months and days. The site explains that the calendar city since antiquity. many eyewitnesses. These fires hope that as more churches are was used by pagan Armenians until the adoption of Christianity, Smyrna was a center of were carried by the wind into renovated and more Turkish and would have been forgotten had it not been researched and Armenian enlightenment the Greek quarter, causing some intellectuals are exploring the documented by the 19th century Armenian priest and historian, the during the 1700’s and 1800’s. 200,000 people to evacuate and dark history of their country, the Very Rev. Fr. Ghevond Alishan. Its Armenian population was seek safety on the docks. Many people of Turkey, as a whole, may In the Armenian calendar, the seven days of the week were named prosperous, producing many were then slaughtered by the someday finally accept the past for the sun, moon, and five known planets at the time. The days of the goods, such as carpets and figs. Turkish army or pushed into the instead of running from it. month, rather than being numbered, were named for pagan deities or Until 1922 Smyrna had been water to drown. While very tragic, for regions in historic Armenia. For example, the date of Armenia’s spared from the ethnic cleansing Allied battleships from the Hovannisian’s lecture was an eye- independence from the Soviet Union (September 21, 1991), would occurring in the eastern provinces United States, Italy, and England opening look into one of the final be written as Gor Ani, 4,484. The calendar had thirteen months in of the Ottoman Empire during were stationed just off shore, but phases of both the Armenian and a year, twelve of thirty days each and a thirteenth consisting of five World War I and the Armenians did nothing to help until the next Greek genocides in Turkey that is days. This format was borrowed from the ancient Egyptian calendar. and Greeks had found a safe haven day, when they finally received rarely discussed. Although out of use for centuries, the calendar and the site are there. In 1919, after the war ended permission to take refugees on important for helping Armenians remember their ancient roots. 4 Hye Sharzhoom December 2012 Congratulations December 2012 Armenian Studies Graduates Arev Chakhlasyan What words of wisdom do you have for an incoming freshman? Mass Communication & Get involved! I joined the Armenian Students Organization my sophomore year and I regret not joining Journalism, Advertising sooner. Try to find an organization that is close to who you are, as a person. Most of my best memories are connected with ASO. What or whom encouraged you to take an Armenian Hagop Karakazian Studies course? Mathematics I wanted to learn how to properly read and write in Armenian. What or whom first encouraged you to take an Armenian Studies Although I can speak and course? understand it fairly well, I had Being Armenian motivated me to learn more about Armenian always wanted to learn it in its literature, art, and history through the Armenian Studies Program. entirety. The Armenian Studies What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian course allowed me to do that. Studies courses? What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian Armenian Studies courses helped me discover more about my ethnic studies courses? identity and that is what I value in my experiences. Having the opportunity to read and write in Armenian. Also, I have What are your plans after graduation? met several outstanding people, both professors within the Program I plan to continue studying at Fresno State to obtain a Master’s degree and fellow students. in Mathematics. What are your plans after graduation? What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students? Ideally, I would love to pursue a career in either media sales or social Attending university is the mission of stealing knowledge from your instructors and textbooks. Therefore, media marketing. I have also considered working at an advertising don’t miss any classes and study daily to get the most out of everything you learn. agency. All options sound extremely exciting to me. What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students? Simply put, college is what you make of it. Work hard, make wise Erica Magarian decisions, and choose to live against the grain. There will be many Criminology, Forensic Behavioral Science people telling you who you should be or how you should act, but remember to live out the life that God has given you. How did you first become involved in the Hye Sharzhoom newspaper? Evelyn Demirchian It was the beginning of the Fall 2009 semester when I received an Mass Communications email from Professor Barlow Der Mugrdechian, asking if anyone and Journalism, Print would be interested in taking on the role of photographer for Hye Journalism Sharzhoom. I had five years of photography experience and felt that Minors in Armenian Studies it would be an excellent opportunity for me to learn more about & Middle Eastern Studies Armenian history and culture. What do you value most from your experiences working for Hye What or whom first Sharzhoom? encouraged you to take an My most valued experiences, while working for Hye Sharzhoom, Armenian Studies course? include hearing about the history of Armenia from the many excellent guest lecturers and learning so much As a Fresno Armenian, I had more about the Armenian Genocide from the descendants of family members who were lost in the tragedy. known about the ASP for some What are your plans after graduation? time, and had seen how the My plans after graduation are to begin a new chapter of my life, searching for and settling into a career. program is such a huge part of What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students? our community. When I transferred, I tried out two classes, Armenian Please, take advantage of the many opportunities Fresno State has to offer. Learn as much as you can and 1A with Professor Der Mugrdechian, and a history class with Dr. La remember to have some fun along the way. Porta. Both are so passionate and such great instructors that I wanted to Photos: Cary Edmondson, University Photographer stay a part of the program so I could continue learning under them. What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian Studies courses? Students Enjoy Varied Armenian Studies Classes Learning to read and write in my mother tongue, diving deeper De n i s e Al t o u n i a n into Armenian history, and becoming exposed to the work done by An d r e w Es g u e r r a Armenian Studies scholars, here, at Fresno State and around the world. a t e v i k o v h a n n i s y a n The recent illuminated manuscript and book exhibit in the Henry T H Madden Library blew me away. Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n What are your plans after graduation? St a f f Wr i t e r s I’ll stay in Fresno for another year to save money, as well as gain more experience with my company before I fly out to the East Coast. The Armenian Studies Program What words of wisdom do you have for incoming students? is often highlighted for its It’s all right if you’re not entirely sure as to what you’re doing because achievement in the community, no one really does, but stay focused. Don’t be afraid to get involved for the scholarships it offers, in programs, classes, and organizations on campus that relate to your and for its recognized professors. passions, because if you don’t experiment in college, when will you? However, the classes offered are at the core of the Program. Ani Grigoryan These classes connect students Business Administration, to the rich and vast history of Management the Armenian people, whether through literature, language, Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian What or whom first or history. Three such classes Prof. La Porta, left, with Armenian 148 students. encouraged you to take an being taught this semester are Valley and specifically in Fresno. Armenian, enticing students who Armenian Studies course? Armenian Studies 10-Introduction Armenians Studies 10 includes may have heard little or nothing I decided that for myself. to Armenian Studies; Armenian lectures that focus on specific of the Armenian people, to begin Because I am Armenian, I Studies 108A-Armenian History I; topics, such as the Armenian to ask more questions. For those wanted to learn as much about and Armenian 148-Masterpieces alphabet, screenings of videos, with more in depth questions my country and my roots as I of Armenian Culture. such as the Armenian Genocide regarding Armenian literature, could. I grew up in Moscow, documentary The River Ran Red, language, history, and culture, Russia, and had never taken Armenian Studies 10- and readings from texts about and there are opportunities to take an Armenian courses before, so Intro. to Armenian Studies by Armenians-for example an upper division advanced course this helped me learn more about my culture. I am glad that I decided There is no more effective way excerpt from My Name is Aram offered by the Armenian Studies to come to Fresno State—the city and the university have a lot of of immersing yourself into the by William Saroyan. Program each semester. connections with Armenia and the Armenian people. study of the Armenian people “I enjoyed learning about What do you value most from your experiences taking Armenian than by taking Armenian Studies different perspectives of Armenian Studies Studies courses? 10. As a foundational course for Armenian history and culture 108A-Armenian History I I value everything: the knowledge, the connections I made, and the the Armenian Studies Program, that aren’t always accurately The Armenian civilization is excellent environment to learn. All the Armenian Studies courses I Professor Sergio La Porta has portrayed in the modern media. one of the oldest in the world. have taken were the best ones of my college experience. provided great insight on the It made me more open-minded The mountainous land holds What are your plans after graduation? history of the Armenian people, in how I perceive history,” said remarkable history, as Armenia I am applying to MBA programs in California. I am thinking of getting their cultural highlights, the junior Armen Arikian about his was the first country to accept a Ph.D. in the future. Teaching college courses and doing research is immigration of Armenians to experience in the class. Christianity, and has experienced something I would like to do. America, and the first generation’s This course is an interesting flourishing in the San Joaquin combination of all things Se e Ar m e n i a n Cl a ss e s p a g e 8 December 2012 Hye Sharzhoom 5 Der Mugrdechian Speaks on Historic Armenia ASO Participates in Culture Night presence could still be seen and felt throughout the lecture. Many of the sites that were home to Armenians families now show little signs of what was once there. Many of the churches have since been destroyed either by intentional action of the government or earthquakes. It is interesting to note that many of the areas once inhabited by Armenians are now home to Kurds. During a week spent in Istanbul in mid-June, Professor Der Mugrdechian visited the Armenian Patriarchate and met Photo: Harry Tavitian with Archbishop Aram Ateshian, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian in front of the 11th c. Cathe- Left to right: ASO dancers Benjamin Tanielian, Hagop Ohan- visited Armenian churches and dral of Ani, in the former Bagratid capital of Ani. essian, Michael Rettig, Aramais Orkusyan, Ruzan Orkusyan, schools, walked the grounds of Marine Vardanyan, Tatevik Hovhannisyan, and Noel Lenard. De n i s e Al t o u n i a n “Historic Armenia: Memories the Shishli Armenian cemetery, Not pictured Ani and Lilit Grigoryan. St a f f Wr i t e r and Images,” detailing his trip and visited the offices of the Photo: ASP Archive last summer to Turkey, to see Agos newspaper, which was De n i s e Al t o u n i a n positive comments was definitely The area that today comprises the remnants of what was once particularly moving as the editor St a f f Wr i t e r a highlight,” said Grigoryan, an Eastern Turkey, holds both historic Armenia. The lecture, Hrant Dink was assassinated in international student herself. enduring and painful memories which was sponsored by the 2007 for speaking out about the For one night only, the unique The ASO members performed for Armenians. Many grew Armenian Studies Program, took Armenian Genocide. and diverse student population a two-part set that consisted up listening to stories their place on Wednesday, November The audience left with a of Fresno State came together, of both a song and a dance grandparents and great- 14, in the University Business clearer idea of what life is like for on one stage, to share their representing Armenia. Ruzan grandparents told about their Center. Armenians in present-day Turkey culture through music and dance Orkusyan, Aramais Orkusyan, lives in places such as Erzerum, Professor Der Mugrdechian’s and what has happened to many at Fresno State’s International and Michael Rettig performed Van, Kharpert and many other trip took place between June 23 of the Armenian churches and Culture Night, held at the Satellite “Chinar Es,” a 20th century Armenian inhabited cities and and June 29. He traveled from historical monuments. Student Union on Saturday, song made famous by Armenian towns within the Ottoman Empire. Yerevan to Kars, Ani, Van, Bitlis, “It was very interesting, yet sad November 17. This annual composer and priest Komitas Unfortunately, the Genocide Moush, and Erzerum, and visited to see so much Armenian history. event is organized by student Vartabed. Ruzan Orkusyan’s of 1915 brought a sudden and many other sites on the journey. It was also disheartening to find volunteers to promote awareness vocals were accompanied by her tragic end to Armenian life in Among the highlights of the trip out that the Turkish government about the many cultures of the brother Aramais Orkusyan, who these communities, and others was a visit to the Monastery of tries to make it look like the international students studying played the duduk, and Michael like it. Constantinople too, had Varak and the island of Akhtamar Armenians committed atrocities at the university. The theme of Rettig who played the oud. once been home to a strong and in the region of Van. In the region against them,” said senior Arpy the night was “Around the World ASO members Tatevik, thriving Armenian community of of Moush, the greatest impact he Soghomonian. in 80 Minutes” and featured Hovhannisyan, Noel Lenard, intellectuals, businessmen, and felt was made by a visit to the For those in the audience, it performances from a number of Marine Vardanyan, Ruzan artists, but is now much reduced St. Karapet Monastery and the was painful to see the images of student groups and international Orkusyan, Ani Grigoryan, Lilit in population. Arakelots Monastery, both in so many damaged or destroyed students representing eight Grigoryan, Benjamin Tanielian, While some have made the Moush, and both of which had churches, all that endures of countries. Michael Rettig, Aramais pilgrimage to historic Armenia played important roles as being a once thriving Armenian This year’s committee was Orkusyan, and Hagop Ohanessian others are left wondering what that among the oldest pilgrimage sites culture. Despite the pain, it was headed by graduating senior then danced to the music of area holds today. Professor Barlow in Armenia. something that every Armenian Ani Grigoryan. After seeing “Sardarapat” by Ara Gevorgyan, Der Mugrdechian, Coordinator of The lecture outlined many should see, as part of our history. Grigoryan’s commitment to the choreographed by Ani and Lilit the Armenian Studies Program, of the changes that have taken The Armenian spirit will always Armenian Students Organization’s Grigoryan. Each student wore was able to answer many of those place since 1915 and the state of be felt in Turkey, even if it can no performance the previous year, at a modern version of traditional questions in his presentation the region today. The Armenian longer be easily seen. International Culture Night (ICN), Armenian clothing, with aprons, Kazan Visiting Scholar Siekierski at Fresno State she was asked to help organize belts, and headpieces. this year’s event. “Seeing so many Se e Cu l t u r e Ni g h t Pa g e 6 Emm a Sh a l j y a n people attend and hearing the St a f f Wr i t e r concentrates on the modern culture, the latter have strong ties period and includes attitudes of with the Hungarian minority in How did a graduate student the institutional Church toward Romania. from Poland find himself in Fresno pilgrimage practice and folk/ During his stay in doing research in Armenian popular religiosity. He also Fresno, Siekierski will study Studies? As an undergraduate conducted other projects in anthropological literature on student Konrad Siekierski visited Armenia–on institutional revival pilgrimage, ritual, sacred places, Turkey in 2001 and he was so of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and other relevant topics, as well impressed by the remnants of the on national discourse promoted as texts regarding religious life of Armenian cultural heritage he by the Church, and on religious Armenians in historical context. saw, including the ruins of Ani, minorities in Armenia, including He also plans to do research on the city of Van, and the monastery the neo-pagan movement. local Armenian communities. of Akhtamar, that he decided to Siekierski is also engaged in Siekierski will also be preparing go to Armenia one day to see the research on the contemporary two volumes: The Anthropology living culture. Armenian Diaspora in Europe and of Modern Armenian Culture, This idea came true in 2005, Photo: Barlow Der Mugrdechian North America. His primary place will be published in Polish and after his successful submission Kazan Visiting Scholar Konrad Siekierski. of fieldwork became Romania, will contain the works of leading of a M.A. research project on participated in the 8th Armenian Anthropology at the University where he spent five months in cultural anthropologists from the topic of “The Situation of Graduate Students Colloquium of Warsaw. For the past few years 2011 and three months in 2012. Armenia; and the Armenians in the Armenian Apostolic Church organized at UCLA and after the he has spent most of his time in “Every Armenian Diaspora Post-Communist Europe will be in post-Soviet Armenia.” This event visited Fresno for a week. Armenia and in countries with an has its own flavor and is unique published in English, and will research project brought together Professor Der Mugrdechian Armenian Diaspora. with the way it mixes with local cover topics on contemporary his two main fields of scholarly recognized the novelty and In September 2007, Siekierski culture,” stated Siekierski. Armenian communities in Central interest: the anthropology of importance for Armenian Studies enrolled in a Ph.D. program in Romania, where a small but and Eastern Europe. Siekierski religion and the anthropology of of Siekierski’s research and the Institute of Archeology and diverse and active Armenian will also participate in two post-socialism. invited the young Polish scholar Ethnography of the National Diaspora includes descendants conferences and conduct archival This is Siekierski’s third for a stay at Fresno State as Academy of Sciences of Armenia, from Ani, Genocide survivors, research at the Keston Centre for visit to the United States. In a Kazan Visiting Scholar, to where he is working under and newcomers from post- Religion, Politics and Society in March 2009 he participated in a continue research and to work on the supervision of Dr. Levon Soviet Armenia, clearly is a Waco, Texas. conference, “Armenian Studies at his thesis “Pilgrimage and Sacred Abrahamian. A year later he also good illustration of his point. Siekierski likes the people, a Threshold: Celebrating the 35th Places in the Context of Modern became a Ph.D. candidate at the Armenians in Romania belong nature, landscape, and food of Anniversary of the Society for Armenian Culture,” based on Institute of Eastern Studies at the to the Armenian Apostolic and Armenia and finds Armenians to Armenian Studies,” where he met fieldwork he is doing in Armenia. Adam Mickiewicz University Armenian Catholic churches, be friendly and open. Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian Siekierski received his B.A. (Poland). and while the former associate “Armenia is a good country to for the first time. A year later he and M.A degrees in Cultural Siekierski’s Ph.D. dissertation themselves mostly with Romanian be a foreigner in,” he concluded. 6 Hye Sharzhoom December 2012 Hamazkayin Ani Dance Company Performs at Memorial Auditorium Eench Ga Chga Ta t e v i k Ho v h a n n i s y a n • St a f f Wr i t e r Describe how you and your family celebrate the holidays with Armenian and American traditons. traditions and American holidays, presents or the hustle—it is about dishes, and styles surround us. family and religion. It is important As Armenians, we celebrate to respect the American ways, these holidays, but with our however it is essential to keep elaborate Armenian dishes, Armenian customs alive. such as our khorovats and kufta. We love going door-to-door and welcoming our friends and families with hospitality and lots of food. Sometimes, we add on turkey for Thanksgiving and ham for Christmas because it is what Zhora Pogosyan we see. But we stay Armenian Sophomore and continue with our tradition as ASO members with Hamazkayin Ani Dance Company at the Major: Biology well. November 10 performance. Photo: ASP Archive As Armenians, we celebrate the Ma r i n e Va r d a n y a n tone. Each dance told a story— holidays with respect to the holy St a f f Wr i t e r there was a dance about a woman aspects. My family does not give with many suitors, one about a gifts—we view it as a religious Anoush Hakobyan Many things can reflect the sibling rivalry, and another about day. The stories and traditions Junior tradition of the Armenian culture, the playfulness of boys in “Khagh behind all the holidays are Major: Child Development but one rich and unique aspect, Bar.” All of which brought smiles what make them special for the which has undoubtedly played a and laughter to the audience. Armenian culture. key role in preserving the Armenian Haunting dances, such as “Anlreli When we were in Armenia, we heritage, is dance. Even now, it Zankagadun” and “Requiem” celebrated Christmas on January draws individuals together and on (Hokehankisd) were performed in 6. We would have a big white Saturday, November 10, feelings memory of all Hamazkayin Ani tree in the corner of our kitchen of pride and joy were awakened Dance Company members. and our table would be filled with in members of the Armenian The concert would not different types of food: dolma, community who gathered in the have its full effect without the Megi Hakobjanyan khash, perashki, cheese, mashed Veterans Memorial Auditorium mesmerizing costumes of the Sophomore potatoes, tomatoes, and more. to enjoy a beautiful performance performers. Vibrant blues and Major: Political Science Our families would go from one by the Hamazkayin Ani Dance red colors dominated the stage relative’s house to another, giving Company of Los Angeles. Folk and dazzled the audience. The We try not to mix Armenian each other gifts and eating dinner and traditional dances, along with men showcased their masculinity and American holidays. On together. After the feast, we contemporary pieces, captivated through dances with vigorous, Thanksgiving we eat turkey, would dance. But when we came the audience throughout the strong, decisive movements mashed potatoes and watch the to America, we started celebrating Macy’s Day Parade. However, we Christmas on December 25th. It’s night as the talented young and leaps, while the females Vartanush Mesropyan celebrate Christmas on January still the same celebration as when dancers performed to music by illustrated their gracefulness with Senior 6 and try to keep it as authentic we were in Armenia, but on a Aram Khachaturian, Sayat Nova, their flexible and expressive arms Major: Psychology Komitas, Ara Gevorgyan, and and hands. as possible. Like in Armenia, I different day. We also celebrate love keeping Christmas simple on January 6. more. The Fresno Armenian Living in America we are and spiritual. It is not about the The Ani Company danced community enjoyed and encouraged to follow American Photos: Barlow Der Mugrdechian throughout the night, performing appreciated the concert. “The best 22 pieces. The evening began part was seeing so many people Graduating Senior Reflects on How Armenian with “Hoy Nazan,” a popular enjoy the performance,” said Armenian folk-song, with ASO member Ruzan Orkusyan. Studies Made a Difference in College Career both male and female dancers This was not their first or last an arms length of distance from introducing themselves with visit to Fresno, the Hamazkayin Ev e l y n De m i r ch i a n my own. I was not only distant, energetic and vivacious dancing. Ani Dance Company made sure St a f f Wr i t e r but incredibly naïve about my The show continued with upbeat their performance in Fresno was own history, until I chose to write and amusing dances, along with unforgettable. It’s fitting that my last class for Hye Sharzhoom. performances with a more serious at Fresno State ends the same As an Armenian-American, way it began—in a small lecture understanding the history of my Cu l t u r e Ni g h t , Fr o m Pa g e 5 Pe t e r s , Fr o m Pa g e 1 room with Prof. Barlow Der community in the United States Mugrdechian. The students spent countless been touched by Peters’ generosity, has led to personal growth and When I first transferred to hours preparing for a successful including the San Joaquin River gave way to meeting some of performance because of the Fresno State, I didn’t expect to the most interesting individuals, Parkway and Conservation Trust, Photo: Cary Edmondson dive into the Armenian Studies importance of the event. They Valley Public Television, the San who are working and teaching Program. It happened on a whim. felt that ICN was a great way Joaquin College of Law, and the Evelyn Demirchian in Armenian academics. Not to I knew plenty about the Program to present the Armenian culture Boys and Girls Club. forget, my peers are some of the and how deeply it was connected styles: event writing, opinion to the campus community. The Since the early 1980s, the Peters most enthusiastic, intelligent and with the local Armenian writing, and interviews. I can’t fun and fast paced performance family has provided numerous hard-working friends I’ve made community, but it wasn’t until the emphasize enough how influential showcased the best of Armenian gifts to Fresno State including during my time at the university. last weeks before my first semester my spring 2011 interview, with dance and the group received the Pete P. Peters Endowment in My experience at Fresno State that I decided to add an Armenian writer Mark Arax, was in my a rousing round of applause Armenian Studies, the President’s wouldn’t have been nearly as language class. It fit perfectly into choice to go into writing. following their performance. Fund, Ag One Foundation, the dynamic without Professor Der my schedule, and that led me to Hye Sharzhoom, and the “I think it was important for Henry Madden Library, the Mugrdechian, Dr. La Porta, my add Dr. Sergio La Porta’s history Armenian Studies Program, Hye Sharzhoom ASO to take part in International Bulldog Foundation, the Leon S. ASP peers and . course, for the same term. opened me up to the Armenian Culture Night because Armenians Peters Honors Scholars, and the Thank you all for the opportunity On another whim, I decided community of Fresno, in ways I Hye have such a rich culture and it is Business Associates Program. to be involved. I hope to see good to share it with other students to walk into a Hye Sharzhoom hadn’t thought of before. I had Sharzhoom continue for as long and to educate them about our meeting. I have always had left the Armenian Church years as there is an Armenian student We are updating our an interest in journalism, and ago, and had unintentionally kept community at Fresno State. beautiful dances and songs. We mailing list. wanted to show everyone the thought this would be a good way beauty and spirit of the Armenian Have you moved to test the waters, to see if it was something I could really excel in. Armenian Studies Program culture,” explained participant and would like us to Marine Vardanyan. It was those first few experiences 5245 N. Backer Ave., PB4 continue sending you with Hye Sharzhoom that The audience felt as if they Fresno CA 93740-8001 had traveled the world in eighty Hye Sharzhoom? became the primary reason that I eventually switched my major to minutes, taking a quick yet Contact us at enjoyable stop in Armenia, thanks print journalism and committed http://www.fresnostate.edu/artshum/ to ASO’s dedication and fantastic 559-278-2669 to update to an Armenian Studies minor. armenianstudies/ performance. your address. Hye Sharzhoom let me test out the waters with a variety of writing December 2012 Hye Sharzhoom 7 Thank You Annual Fund Donors Alumnus Karkazian Pursues Fashion Career (received as of November 30, 2012) Talene Karkazian represented California State Benefactors Sylva Etian Class of 2009 University, Northridge at the Arnold & Dianne Gazarian Sam & Betty Farsakian Major: Fashion Merchandising Canada Hemp Trade Alliance Tony T. Kooyumjian, Larry R. Farsakian, D.D.S. Minor: Armenian Studies conference with two upcycled The Thomas A. Kooyumjian Nubar Garibyan Active in the Armenian Students dresses made purely from hemp Family Foundation Margaret Giragosian Organization materials. The Leon S. Peters Foundation Annette Gurdjian Along with working on her Raffi Haddad, After graduating from Fresno thesis, Karkazian also creates Patrons All Rite Rent A Car State, Karkazian went on to pursue jewelry from recycled materials, Bob Der Mugrdechian Mrs. Agnes Hagopian a Masters Degree in Fashion which can be found on Facebook Mrs. Herbert Lion Design and Apparel, at California (Meow-Lynn Accessories and Fr. Hovsep Hagopian Archive ASP Photo: Standard Truck & Trailer Sales, Tom Hairabedian, Ed.D. State University, Northridge. Clothing). She is truly thankful Talene Karkazian Inc. Dr. Juliet Hananian She is currently working on her to God and her family for all the Rodney C. Haron thesis, which focuses on the the ITAA journal (International opportunities they have blessed Friends Peter Hosharian sustainability and upcycling of Textile and Apparel Association), her with. She also would like Armenian General Benevolent John & Karen Hovannisian clothing. Upcycling is a process and won four competitions around to thank the Armenian Studies Union, Marcia & Haig Jamgotchian that takes discarded materials and the United States. She has traveled Program at Fresno State for Greater Fresno Chapter Paul Jamushian transforms them into stylish and to Philadelphia, to Canada, and supporting her throughout the Edward & Eleonore Aslanian Roxie Haydostian Jizmejian beautiful garments. participated in a competition years. Vatche Soghomonian & Jeannette John Karkazian has published in for Cotton Incorporated. She Dr. Jane Kardashian Hagop Karakazian Michael & Jackline Matosian Rose Kasimian Armenian Students Make a Difference in USU Roxie Moradian Leo Keoshian, M.D. programs because the things I learn in one, I can share with Sponsors Mrs. Antonia Kloian, the other,” stated Karkazian. G. Franklin Antoyan In Memory of Richard Kloian Last semester USU Productions George & Maryann Atamian Robert & Jackie Manselian organized a “Camp Darfur” Randy & Mary Baloian Paul & Stacie Melikian event, an informational exhibit on Gov. George Deukmejian Markar & Suzy Melkonian genocide in general, highlighting George & Flora Dunaians Zabelle Melkonian the Armenian Genocide. The Dr. & Prof. Sarkis & Silva Charles Merzian event was organized by Denise Karayan Judy Michalowski Altounian because she realized Anton & Maral Kismetian Mid Valley Packing, the impact of genocide and the David & Margaret Mgrublian John Gahvejian need to spread awareness. George Pehlvanian Michael Minasian “I wanted to become a part Bill & Christine Sahatdjian Armand & Nadia Mirijanian of Fresno State. I think it’s Dean V. Shahinian Edward Misserlian important to get involved with John & Liz Shields Annette & John Moushigian something you enjoy doing,” Sonia Tutelian Bob & Nancy Mugrdechian Alice Muradliyan explained Altounian, on why she Kirk & Kathy Yergat, Archive ASP Photo: got involved. Yergat Packing Co. Gladys Peters Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Left to right: Tamar Karkazian, Arpy Soghomonian, Denise “My favorite part is the Supporters Cindy Rettig Altounian, and Andrew Esguerra. people. I love working with the Dr. Shant Agajanian Cindy Saavedra St a f f Re p o r t the semester. USU Productions different artists that perform, Zaven & Lisbeth Alejian Dr. Ara Sanjian is one of the most active groups as well as all the people in our Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Alexanian Sarabian Farms William Saroyan once on campus, consisting of ten office,” said Arpy Soghomonian, George & Mary Atashkarian Dr. & Mrs. Leon & Shirley wrote “For when two of them committees that strive to develop who plans a mini-concert series Arten J. Avakian Saryan [Armenians] meet anywhere in entertaining and enriching every semester. Harriet Boghosian John & Linda Shahbazian the world, see if they will not programs for students throughout The ties to USU Productions Mark Bohigian Ruben Shahbazian, D.D.S. create a New Armenia.” Years the year. positively impacts all the Martin & Barbara Bohigian Mrs. Armon Simonian later these words still ring true, By getting involved in the individuals and organizations Martin & Suzanne Bohigian Hrand Simonian but instead of just two Armenian Fresno State community, these involved. Clara Bousian Bobbie Smith students, it’s four Armenians at students have created a “new This connection provides a Dr. Marlene Breu Edward L. Sornigian Fresno State. Armenia,” and have tied many means for ASO to get the word Todd Cereghino Barbara Stepanian Denise Altounian, Andrew Armenians on campus with USU out about their events and to Helen Parnagian Corrigan Aram & Lisa Tokatian Esguerra, Tamar Karkazian, and Productions. reach out to the broader campus Raffi Daghlian Mary & Karnig Torosian Ann Arpy Soghomonian are not This new Armenia has not only community. It also helps ASO Kathleen Demerdjian Triple X Fraternity, Fresno only actively involved in the brought them closer together, as members stay informed about fun Levon Der Bedrossian Chapter Armenian Studies Program and Armenians, but has also educated events happening on campus for Peter & Raffi Dorian H. Harry Vartanian Armenian Students Organization, their teammates and peers about students. Diana Boghosian Dorough Eleanor H. Yazijian but are also part of the University Armenian culture and history. By getting involved with USU Dr. Hratch Doumanian Leon Yengoyan Student Union Productions, a Senior Tamar Karkazian, Productions, these individuals Stephen Dulgarian Paul Yergat student-run campus programming who has been working for USU are able to share their culture Louise Emerzian Carri & David Young board. Productions for the past three and heritage with other students Richard Erganian Archie & Kathy Zakarian These students, along with their years and is now its director, is who might not have had the colleagues, plan, organize, and also Hye Sharzhoom editor. “It opportunity to really learn about University of Venice, where she Haroutyunian , Fr o m Pa g e 1 host various events throughout is great being involved in both it. has been a professor of Armenian tenth Kazan Visiting Professor, language and literature since Armenian-Polish Singer Narine To Release Debut Album will be joining the Armenian 2001. premiered on Armenia TV’s “Bari the winner of the “Chance for Studies Program from the Along with teaching, Dr. Luys Hayer” [Good Morning Success” program, and she gained University of Venice in Spring Haroutyunian has also directed Armenians] program. The music a wider audience and notoriety 2013, to offer a fascinating three- her skills towards working as video is a patriotic track with after participating in the Polish unit course, Armenian Studies the Cultural Advisor to the both English and Armenian reality television program “Bar,” 120T, “Armenian Genocide and Ambassador of Armenia in Italy, lyrics about her connection to which aired on Polsat, a national Translation.” The course will and the Italian and Armenian her Armenian heritage. The song broadcast station. She was then focus on studying the translation Website Coordinator and blends traditional Armenian a presenter on “Music Ring,” a of literature on the Armenian Translator for the Armenian vocals and catchy riffs with a music program aired on Poland’s Genocide, and how it has played Embassy in Italy. Recently, Dr. synthesized electronic beat. In TV4. a role in educating and raising Haroutyunian completed mapping the music video, Narine Torosyan Having signed onto the record awareness about it. translations from the Armenian is seen roaming around Yerevan, label OffMusic, she is currently Dr. Haroutyunian is an language into Italian, a project she candidly spreading finger paint preparing for her debut album. accomplished scholar, having has worked on with UNESCO. Su r e n Og a n e ss i a n on people’s cheeks in the colors Tracks from the album can be translated Antonia Arslan’s In addition to teaching her St a f f Wr i t e r of the Armenian flag. heard on her YouTube channel Skylark Farm from Italian into course, Dr. Haroutyunian will also Torosyan was born in Yerevan, (found at http://www.youtube. Armenian. A graduate of Yerevan be giving three public lectures Narine (singer Narine but has been living in Poland com/user/NarineMusic). While State University, she received during her visit, which will be Torosyan) is an emerging since 1995. In choosing to singing chiefly in English, Narine her Masters of Arts in pedagogy, published in the Kazan Armenian synthpop solo act from Poland. become a singer she is continuing Torosyan shows a deep connection philology, and literary translation Studies series. She recently created waves a family tradition, as many with her roots, and anyone who in 1996, and later her Ph.D. We welcome Dr. Haroutyunian over the past summer when the members of her family are linked enjoys synthpop or electronic in philology. She received her to Fresno and look forward to her music video to her first single, to the national Opera House in music in general may find much second Ph.D. in linguistics at the enlightening lectures and class. “Hay Em Yes” [I Am Armenian], Yerevan. In Poland, she became to enjoy in her music. 8 Hye Sharzhoom December 2012 were excited for the SAS Holds Annual Membership Meeting in Denver opportunity to give back to the Armenian community St a f f Re p o r t and to reflect on the past and how Armenians have The Society for Armenian always been active and Studies (SAS) held its 39th supportive of the countries Annual Membership meeting on that they live in.” Saturday, November 17, 2012, Also in November, in conjunction with the Middle ASO members had the East Studies Association (MESA) pleasure of ushering at the annual conference held at the Hamazkayin Ani Dance Sheraton Denver Downtown Company performance. Hotel. The students helped seat At the annual meeting members attendees and afterwards reviewed the activities of the SAS enjoyed the beautiful for the past year and discussed performance. future activities. Plans for panels More recently, ASO were formulated for next year’s held a general meeting meeting, which will be held in L. to R.: Marine Vardanyan, Kevork Archive ASP Photo: at the California Pizza October in New Orleans. Ajamian, Lauren Chardukian, Tatevik The Armenians Of Colorado hosted members of the Society Kitchen to inform members Three new members were Hovhannisyan, and Hagop Ohanes- elected to the Executive Council: for Armenian Studies at a reception in Denver. sian at Masis Ararat cemetery. about upcoming events Ani Kasparian (University of presented by Ohannes Guekjian, Christina Maranci, Alison Vacca, while also supporting a Ara Sanjian, and Vahram Sergio La Porta, and by Michael ASO, Fr o m Pa g e 1 Michigan), Tamar Boyadjian fundraiser for the Charlie Keyan Shemmassian. Kevork Bardakjian Pifer. as they bowled and socialized. It Armenian Community School. (UCLA), and Barlow Der Mugrdechian (Fresno State). was the discussant. The aim of the Society for was a great way for old and new Finally, ten ASO members Later that day, there was a Armenian Studies is to promote members to meet and learn more performed November 17, at They join continuing members Kevork Bardakjian, Marc panel on “Armenia in Dialogue the study of Armenian culture about one another and their advisor, International Culture Night, with the Near East, 8-15th and society. The Secretariat of the Professor Der Mugrdechian, who at Fresno State and proudly Mamigonian (NAASR), Bedross Der Matossian (University of Centuries,” chaired by Sergio La Society is located at the Fresno joined the students for a night of presented their Armenian culture Porta. Papers were presented by State Armenian Studies Program. fun. Moreover, bowling was a through music, dance, and Nebraska), and Nanor Kebranian Ar m e n i a n Cl a ss e s , Fr o m Pa g e 4 great team building exercise, as traditional clothing. (Columbia). such a rich literary tradition everyone learned to cheer for and Even as the semester ends, The Armenians of Colorado many disasters, wars, and that I would have otherwise encourage one another. winter promises new volunteering hosted a reception for SAS revolutions. This Armenian never been exposed to it,” stated ASO has also organized several opportunities, including Christmas members Saturday evening. history course covers these topics Denise Altounian, describing her volunteering events. For Veterans Caroling at the California Richard Hovannisian (UCLA) in great depth, as well as covering experience in the course. Day, members visited the Ararat Armenian Home, social events, was invited to speak on “Armenian the origins of the Armenian Dr. La Porta’s class is and Ararat Masis cemeteries and a December 21 Christmas Smyrna,” and then community people. enlightening because of both the to place flags at the graves of Party for ASO members and their members met with SAS members The course is taught by Professor content and the teaching method. Armenian-American veterans. families at Holy Trinity Armenian and had the opportunity to become Der Mugrdechian, who explains The masterpieces covered in this Volunteers braved the early Apostolic Church. familiar with the activities of the Armenian history in detail, class include the oral traditions, morning cold to honor and Meanwhile, the ASO Executive SAS. making it impossible to get lost such as that of the Armenian remember the veterans. ASO is busy planning and coordinating During the MESA conference, in the complicated and profound patriarch Hayk. The class features executive member Hagop new and exciting events for the SAS members attended a variety history. The course is a survey of a number of genres, allowing Ohanessian commented, “We upcoming spring semester. of panels devoted to different Armenian history from the origins something for everyone: epics, aspects of Middle Eastern studies of the Armenians to the medieval medieval religious poetry, and 14th Annual Armenian Film Festival and especially Armenian Studies. period. modern Armenian literature. Films made by Armenian A workshop on “New “Armenian history is definitely Whether you start the class with directors/writers, or films with Strategies and Methodologies for something I did not know much some familiarity to the works an Armenian theme are being Teaching of Modern Armenian” about, but it is interesting how or with none at all, you will sought. was organized by Barlow Der Armenian history ties in with leave the class with a newfound Films may be in any language Mugrdechian. Kevork Bardakjian Persian and Roman history,” said understanding. (with subtitles), English chaired the workshop and Ani student Greta Bell. Dr. La Porta is an exceptional Fourteenth Annual preferred. Kasparian was a discussant. Although students find this professor, who incorporates humor, Armenian Film Festival A panel on “Armenians in the course challenging because of the sharing his own experiences, and Films may be on any topic, encouraging class discussions. Spring 2013 Modern World” featured Arda long period of history covered, Armenian theme preferred. Melkonian and Doris Melkonian. they enjoy the knowledge they He creates an inviting atmosphere Sponsored by the Armenian Film must be in video (NTSC)/ There were two Armenian gain about the culture. for students to feel comfortable to Students Organization DVD format. themed panels on Monday, share their opinions and thoughts and Armenian Studies Program November 19. The first, Armenian 148-Masterpieces of on the pieces being discussed. It Please send the video/DVD to: “History and Community: The Armenian Culture is a class that teaches students First Call for Entries Armenian Film Festival “Armenian 148 has allowed to appreciate great literary Entries are being sought for the Armenians of Lebanon and c/o Armenian Studies Program me to learn about my Armenian works and learn why they have Fourteenth Annual Armenian Film Syria,” was organized by Barlow 5245 N. Backer Ave. PB4 culture from a totally new earned the honor of being called Festival to be held on the Fresno Der Mugrdechian, who also Fresno, CA 93740-8001 perspective. Armenians have “masterpieces.” State campus. chaired the panel. Papers were Thank You Donors HYE SHARZHOOM David Sarkis Barsamian Pasadena Bestway Rent A Car Valencia NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Raffi Demirjian San Leandro Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian Fresno Hye Sharzhoom is sent without charge to thousands of people throughout the world. In Memory of Vera Erysian Although there is no subscription fee, we urge readers to support our efforts with Armand Gougasian Clovis donations of any amount. This request has assumed a special importance because of Zephyr Kalunian Folsom Marguerite & Grace Kazarian Fresno increased mailing costs. Kathy Khatoonian El Macero In Memory of Sonia Ohanesian Scott Yes, I would like to support the Hye Sharzhoom mailing expenses with a donation In Memory of D. Sempadian of: $ Roxie Haydostian Jizmejian Fresno Roxie Maljanian Newington, CT Name: Mr. & Mrs. Richard Pandukht Fresno Ed & Blanche Parton Visalia Leo & Marlene Pilibosian Fresno Address: City: State: Zip: Chuck & Debbie Poochigian Fresno Barbara Stepanian Rancho Palos Verdes Please make checks payable to Armenian Studies Program and send to: Charles J. Tateosian Walnut Creek Armenian Studies Program Robert & Cynthia Tusan Laguna Niguel Bob & Frances Tusan Sanger California State University, Fresno Kirk & Kathy Yergat Fresno 5245 N. Backer Ave PB4 Armenian Studies Program Endowment Fresno CA 93740-8001 Arnold & Dianne Gazarian Fresno In memory of Vehanoosh Vera Erysian