MARCH 17, 2018 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVIII, NO. 34, Issue 4529 $ 2.00 NEWS The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 INBRIEF USC Shoah Foundation Serbian Lawmakers Adds Large Collection of Reject Armenian Armenian Genocide Genocide Bill BELGRADE (news.am) — The Serbian parlia- Testimony to its Archive ment rejected the opposition’s proposal to recog- LOS ANGELES — University of Southern nize Armenian Genocide on March 9. California (USC) Shoah Foundation has Even though such motions have been submitted received one of the largest collections of tes- several times in the Serbian legislature over the timonies from survivors of the Armenian past decade, they have always been rejected, Genocide that were recorded over decades according to RFE/RL Balkan Service. by Dr. Richard Hovannisian, a leading schol- The resolution recognizing the genocide of 1.5 ar on the World War I-era genocide. million Armenians in the Ottoman Empire was sub- The Richard G. Hovannisian Armenian mitted by Serbia’s former Prime Minister Zoran Genocide Oral History Collection was offi- Zivkovic, who now heads the opposition New Party. cially announced as a part of the Visual Speaking to the RFE/RL Serbian Service, History Archive at a ceremony on Friday, Zivkovic underscored the need for Belgrade to clar- March 9. The more than ify its position on this matter, and he recalled that 1,000 interviews will both Russia and most of the US states have recog- constitute the largest nized this greatest tragedy of the 20th century. non-Holocaust-related According to various estimates, about 300 collection to be integrat- Armenians live in Serbia. ed into the institute’s Trio of Karen Hakobyan (piano), Levon Chilingirian (violin) and Suren Bagratuni (cello) Visual History Archive. Armenian Premier It will also be the archive’s first audio-only Meets Lebanese St. Vartan Cathedral Concert collection. Initially, a pilot of 10 testimonies — Prof. Richard President seven in English and Hovannisian BEIRUT (news.am) — Armenian Prime Minister three in Armenian — will Celebrates Armenian Music Karen Karapetyan met Lebanon’s President Michel be available to the pub- Aoun on Monday, March 12, at the residence of the NEW YORK — The joyous musical notes emanating in the sanctuary of the St. lic in the Institute’s Visual History Archive. Lebanese President, the press service of the Vartan Cathedral served as a welcome to the new season during the “Celebration The rest will be added as they are digitized Government of Armenia reported. of Spring Concert,” on and indexed to the high standards used by Karapetyan thanked for the warm reception and Wednesday, February 28, in an the Institute. In addition to the audiotapes added that he is glad to be in Lebanon. By Taleen Babayan event presented by the Armenian recorded in a variety of formats, the new “Just two weeks ago we had the opportunity to Mission to the United Nations, in collection includes documents and pho- Special to the Mirror-Spectator exchange ideas in Yerevan over the multilayered the spirit of friendship, dialogue tographs corresponding to each interview, relations between Armenia and Lebanon. We high- and cooperation among nations. transcripts and translations that light the regular high level interactions and dia- Performing to overflowing pews of United Nations diplomats and delegates, the Hovannisian and his students put together logue between Armenia and friendly Lebanon. As I internationally acclaimed and award-winning artists Levon Chilingirian (violin), over the years. The vast majority of the col- noted during our previous meeting, the economic Suren Bagratuni (cello) and Karen Hakobyan (piano) played works by Haydn, lection was recorded in Armenian, but up to potential of our bilateral relations is rather huge Beethoven, Khachaturian, Hovunts and Babadjanian as they kicked off their 20 percent of the testimonies are in English; and it should be maximally utilized,” Karen North American tour. there is a smaller portion of Turkish and Karapetyan said. see CONCERT, page 11 Spanish language interviews. The Lebanese president welcomed the visit of the The son of a Genocide survivor, Armenian premier to Lebanon, expressing convic- Hovannisian believes deeply in the power of tion that it will foster the further development of testimony as a tool to educate, combat the friendly relations between Armenia and denial, and communicate the magnitude of Lebanon. Armenian National Assembly a criminal scheme that claimed an estimat- Aoun expressed his readiness to support the ed 1.5 million Armenian lives. But numbers implementation of joint projects. alone don’t begin to tell the story. “The fig- Karapetyan during his visit discussed the oppor- Members Visit New York ure ‘a million and a half’ can roll right over tunities for establishing an Armenian-Lebanese our shoulders,” he said. “But it’s different fund. Washington, DC, where they met with when you take those individual interviews Karapetyan later met with Lebanese Prime Congressmen and other high-ranking and start listening to them one by one. And By Hagop Vartivarian Minister Saad Hariri. American government officials. then it becomes a million-and-a-half individ- Special to the Mirror-Spectator “We stated that in all respects the relations The representatives spoke about their uals and the loss of a civilization, of a way between our two countries are at a very high level. efforts at establishing state contacts during of life, a space where people lived for more We also noted that our economic relations lag NEW YORK — A delegation of Armenian new political developments in the West, as than 3,000 years, and everything that space behind the high level of political relations, and National Assembly representatives visited well as the electoral changes in Armenia. contained.” there is great potential to tap and develop,” New York on Saturday, March 10, and held They praised the participation of diasporan The institute also houses the Armenian Karapetyan said. a meeting with representatives of the Armenians in Armenia’s economic growth. Film Foundation’s collection of Armenian He added that he invited Hariri to visit Armenia. Armenian community at St. Vartan They talked about three important fields Survivor testimony, which was fully inte- Cathedral hosted by Archbishop Khajag of cooperation with the United States and grated into the Visual History Archive in Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the stressed the importance of the Armenian late 2016.“By adding more context to the Armenian Church of America (Eastern). lobbying organizations in this country Visual History Archive, we continue to The delegation had previously visited see VISIT, page 10 see SHOAH, page 20 INSIDE

Good, Not-So-Clean Fun with Vahe Berberian Hablamos ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. — Armenio By Taleen Babayan Delivering his signature style of comedy all the way from Los Page 5 Special to the Mirror-Spectator Angeles, Vahe Berberian per- formed his new monologue, “Ooremn,” to great enthusiasm at sold-out weekend performances on March 3 and 4 at the Clinton Inn in an event hosted by the Tekeyan INDEX Cultural Association (TCA) of Greater New York. Tying together generations through contemporary and cultural refer- Arts and Living ...... 12 Armenia ...... 2,3 ences, Berberian elaborated, through humor, on the themes of marriage, Community News...... 6 religion, current events and social media during his one-hour-and-forty- Editorial ...... 17 five minute set in the Armenian language. International ...... 4,5 see COMEDY, page 15 2 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia

Nalbandian Presents Foreign Policy Priorities In Sweden STOCKHOLM (Armenpress) — While on an official visit in Stockholm on March 13, Armenian foreign minister Edward Nalbandian met with leadership of leading analytical centers of Sweden, such as the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, the Swedish Institute of International Affairs, the Center for Peace and Conflict Research at the Uppsala University, the Jarl Hjalmarson Foundation, as well as with high-ranking diplomats, the Foreign Ministry reported. During the meeting Nalbandian presented Armenia’s foreign policy priorities and the steps aimed at developing the Armenian-Swedish relations. He appreciated the cooperation with Sweden both at bilateral and multilateral formats attaching impor- tance to the mutual partnership within the frames of the Armenia-EU relations, and the Eastern Partnership in particular. In this context Nalbandian Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan on the new train touched upon the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, as well as the cooperation prospects. He introduced the meeting participants on the Prime Minister Travels to Gyumri joint efforts of Armenia and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-Chair countries aimed at peacefully set- By New Electric Train Line tling the Karabakh conflict, as well as Armenia’s stances on a number of urgent regional and interna- tional issues. GYUMRI — Prime Minister Karen The foreign minister also answered the questions Karapetyan visited Gyumri on March 3, of the meeting participants. riding on the new electric train, which has started running between Yerevan and Gyumri. Sargsyan Attends World After getting acquainted with the Chess Tournament train, he welcomed the decision made by the South Caucasus Railway CJSC BERLIN (Public Radio of Armenia) — President to operate it in Armenia. Serzh Sargsyan of Armenia, who is also president of Karapetyan was told that starting the Armenian Chess Federation, attended the open- March 4, the new train will run twice a ing ceremony of the World Chess Candidates day, Fridays-Sundays at express regime Tournament in Berlin on March 9. Sargsyan partici- without making stops. The trip’s dura- pated in the ceremony as an honorary guest in tion is two hours. The other Yerevan- acknowledgement of Armenia’s contribution to the Gyumri-Yerevan railway services are development and popularization of chess. still being provided using the old Sargsyan delivered an address at the event. rolling stock. Tickets cost 2,500 drams At the end of the event, the eight world-famous par- ($5.20) each way. The train complies with all necessary ticipants were presented. Marie Lou Papazian, Herve Fleuri and Raffi Derderian meet with Prime Minister “Though Armenia is not one of the world’s largest safety standards. Karen Karapetyan. countries for its small size and population, many con- In Gyumri Karapetyan received a sider it a chess superpower, since the modest delegation led by Marie Lou Armenian national team, which features current con- Papazian, CEO of Tumo Center for The guests introduced the Prime “I am convinced that it will be a tender Levon Aronian, has triumphed three times in Creative Technologies. The delega- Minister to the Gyumri Culinary successful, change-oriented project, the last few years and once won the title of world tion comprised Herve Fleuri, execu- School Project which will use the Paul which is so much needed in champion,” Sargsyan said in his comments. tive vice president of the Paul Bocuse Bocuse Institute’s expertise and possi- Gyumri,” the Premier stressed, assur- “This year the world’s first chess research institute Culinary Institute (France), French- bilities. Prime Minister Karapetyan wel- ing that his government is ready to was inaugurated in Armenia. We hope that the Armenian philanthropist Raffi comed the idea of implementing such a support the implementation of the Institute’s activities will help reveal the undiscovered Derderian and others. project in Armenia. project. aspects of the game of chess,” he added. Speeches were also delivered by President of the German Chess Federation Ulrich Krause, FIDE Vice President Georgios Makropoulos, as well as organiz- er’s representatives – Ilya Merenson, President of Public TV Show Criticized for ‘Ridiculing’ Female Prison Inmates the World Chess Organization and Andrey Gurev, Vice-President of the Russian Chess Federation. YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — A report their words would later be edited [for periodically received rejections with aired during last week’s evening show the report] and whether a laugh track the explanation that they are too busy,” on Armenia’s Public Television sparked would be added? Secondly, did these the investigative journalist said. Ski Resort to Be criticism among human rights activists women have the opportunity to choose The daily Hraparak encountered the Constructed in Lori who insist that female prison inmates whether to answer or not or the prison same attitude from the penitentiary featured in the program became a tar- administration itself chose the women department as its request for filming YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Government of get of unsolicited ridicule. who were to answer the reporter’s inside a prison located in a Yerevan Armenia has approved the construction of a ski As part of the “Fine Evening” show questions?” she queried. suburb for the purpose of getting resort in Lori Province of Armenia. Minister of broadcast on March 8, a public holiday The show also raised eyebrows in the acquainted with the conditions of Territorial Administration and Development of marking Women’s Day in Armenia, a media community because dozens of prison cells, the library and the can- Armenia Davit Lokyan noted that Ecosign interna- young woman apparently posing as an journalists in Armenia are known to teen was rejected. tional company has been chosen for designing a mas- ingénue reporter interviewed seven have difficulty in accessing prisons for “We make a request to visit some ter plan of the area. female convicts serving their sentences filming. Some have to wait for months convict at some penitentiary and get a Lokyan added that the project will be implemented in a penitentiary in Abovian, a town before their requests are likely to be cynical reply that they cannot let a jour- in the Antarashen and Lermontovo communities of some 15 kilometers to the northeast of rejected for some reason. nalist in because of the [administra- Lori Province and the investment will amount to 30 capital Yerevan. The reporter asked “It turns out that access to prisons tion’s] being busy,” Hraparak editor billion drams (around $62 million). some frivolous ‘girly’ questions, includ- for investigative journalists is banned Armine Ohanian said, adding that the “The project will foster the diversification of ing whether there were any “cute guys and for those who film for entertain- ombudsman officially confirmed to her touristic entertainments in Armenia and will raise among the guards”, and the answers of ment purposes it is not,” complained that the refusal was unlawful. competitiveness. It will also prolong the touristic sea- the women were accompanied with off- Grisha Balasanian, a journalist writing RFE/RL’s Armenian service son,” he said, adding that more than 1,500 new jobs screen giggles. for the Hetq magazine. (Azatutyun.am) asked the Penitentiary would be created. Zaruhi Hovannisian, a member of the Balasanian said he had been waiting Department of the Ministry of Justice to The resort will also be able to host international public group engaged in prison moni- for permission to film at the hospital clarify the situation and was still waiting sporting events. toring, said the show raised some ques- for convicts for a year. “I have made a for the reply to its written inquiry at the tions that needed to be answered by request to the chief of the establish- time of this posting. Neither the Public the Ministry of Justice. ment and have also turned to the min- Television of Armenia has reacted to the “Were these women aware of how ister of justice… During the year I have criticism yet. S A T U R D A Y , M A R C H 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 ARMENIA Prime Minister Discusses Prospects of Investment Programs with Lebanese Business Leaders

BEIRUT — Within the framework of his offi- and cosmetics; production of food and bever- over the past decades has evolved from a four core sectors spanning five continents. The cial visit to Lebanon, on March 13 Prime ages; and retail and consumer products. It regional concern to a truly global entity. Future Group has divisions and subsidiaries in Minister Karen Karapetyan met with Lebanese mainly invests in Middle East and North Headquartered in Dubai with offices in London a wide range of different industries ranging business leaders in Beirut. Africa (MENA) countries and the and New York and business hubs worldwide, from manufacturing and engineering services The prospects of investing in Armenia were Mediterranean countries. Future Group today is a holding company that to real estate development. discussed at the meeting. Headed by Company Future Group was established in 1981 and oversees 30 privately held companies across Co-founder Romen Mathieu, the members of the EuroMena Funds’ delegation presented the areas of their company’s activities and the wealth of know-how they had built up. They noted that the Company is keen to cooperate with Armenia in the fields of insurance, infor- mation technology, services and construction. Karapetyan presented Armenia’s current eco- nomic position, stressing that a 7.5-percent eco- nomic growth was recorded in 2017. The other macroeconomic indicators, too, were positive last year. Karen Karapetyan noted that it is now the right time to invest in Armenia which bene- fits from different preferential trade regimes. Welcoming the EuroMena Funds’ willingness to get involved in Armenia, the Premier expressed readiness on behalf of his govern- ment to discuss the future steps in all detail. Prime Minister Karapetyan next met with President of Future Group Concern Fouad M. Makhzoumi to discuss issues of investment cooperation. Fouad M. Makhzoumi presented his company’s activities in a number of coun- tries around the globe. The Premier invited him to visit Armenia in order to get acquainted with our country’s opportunities, noting that the Armenian side is prepared to discuss the prospects of mutually beneficial cooperation. The EuroMena Fund, L.P. specializes in high growth mid-market private companies. The fund typically invests in banking and insurance; maintenance and services; phar- Prime Minister Karen Karapetyan and his aides meet with Lebanese businesspeople. maceutical, healthcare services, chemicals, Armenian Opposition Marks 2008 Unrest Anniversary

YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Hundreds of peo- Petrosian-led opposition in the city’s Liberty in March 2008 as a “violent act of usurpation police officers holding white carnations as ple rallied in Yerevan on Thursday, March 1, Square in protest against alleged vote rig- of power.” He claimed that the crackdown they walked towards an unofficial memorial to mark the tenth anniversary of a deadly ging. The police and interior troops tried prevented Armenia’s Constitutional Court to the unrest victims. The officers joined the suppression of anti-government street unsuccessfully to disperse them before then from invalidating the election results that organizers and participants of the rally in lay- protests that followed a disputed Armenian President Robert Kocharian called a state of gave victory to Sarkisian. ing flowers there. presidential held in February 2008. emergency and ordered Armenian army units Zurabian also condemned the authorities Ter-Petrosian did not take part in the annu- The crowd led by top representatives of the into the capital. Scores of opposition mem- for their failure to identify and prosecute any al commemoration. The organizers gave no opposition Armenian National Congress bers and supporters were arrested in the fol- of the individuals personally responsible for clear reasons for the 73-year-old ex-presi- (HAK) marched to the site of vicious clashes lowing weeks in a crackdown condemned by the ten deaths. “They won’t prosecute them- dent’s absence. between security forces and supporters of local and international human rights groups. selves and their murderers,” said Aram former President Levon Ter-Petrosian, the HAK leaders again charged that Kocharian Manukian, another senior HAK member. The demonstrators also included several main opposition candidate in the ballot. rigged the election to hand over power to The crowded applauded as Manukian read other opposition figures not affiliated with Eight protesters and two police servicemen Serzh Sarkisian, his preferred successor, out the names of the ten victims. Sargis the HAK. One of them, Nikol Pashinian, was died in the violence. when they addressed the demonstrators in Kloyan, whose son Gor was among the pro- a key speaker at the opposition protest on Thousands of people barricaded them- Liberty Square before the march. testers killed ten years ago, also gave a March 1-2, 2008. Pashinian split from Ter- selves in downtown Yerevan on March 1, Levon Zurabian, the deputy chairman of speech, alleging a government cover-up of Petrosian’s opposition movement after 2008 hours after riot police broke up non- the opposition party headed by Ter- the killings. spending nearly two years in prison on stop demonstrations staged by the Ter- Petrosian, described the authorities’ actions The demonstrators were escorted by riot charges stemming from the unrest.

President Congratulates Pope Francis on Fifth Armenia Slams Azerbaijan Over Large-Scale War Games

Anniversary YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — The Armenian gov- early 1990s, is likely to feature prominently will launch a counteroffensive.” ernment has accused Baku of failing to meet during the campaign leading up to the vote During the five-day exercises, the YEREVAN (Public Radio of Armenia) — its obligations to an international organiza- in which current President Ilham Aliyev is Azerbaijani armed forces will also reportedly President Serzh Sargsyan sent on March tion after Azerbaijan launched large-scale expected to win his fourth consecutive five- use a number of new types of weapons 13 a congratulatory message to Pope war games on Monday, March 12. year term. recently acquired from Russia, Israel and the Francis on the fifth anniversary of being “Azerbaijan began its military exercises Military authorities in Azerbaijan do not Czech Republic. elected Pontiff of the Holy See of Rome, without notifying in advance the specify the location of the current war Responding to the criticism coming from wishing the Pope robust health and every Organization for Security and Cooperation games, only mentioning that they are unfold- Yerevan regarding the conduct of the exer- success in all his undertakings. in Europe (OSCE) member states and with a ing “in the difficult conditions of the moun- cises, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry “Since the very first day of your tenure, gross violation of its obligations before the tainous terrain.” spokesman Hikmet Hajiev insisted that the you have sought to promote equity and organization,” Tigran Balayan, a spokesman war games taking place “in the sovereign ter- justice across the globe and foster dia- Some 250 tanks and other armored vehi- for Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affair, ritory of Azerbaijan” correspond to “the logue between conflicting sides. It is my cles, up to 1,000 artillery units of different wrote on Twitter. OSCE’s Vienna document of 2011.” pleasure to note that your deeds have calibers, multiple rocket launcher systems Azerbaijan’s five-day war games involving In 2017 Azerbaijan conducted several mili- been distinguished with great attention to and mortars, as well as up to 50 units of about 25,000 troops and a large number of tary exercises, causing the wrath of the the Armenian people,” Sargsyan said in army and front-line aircraft are also involved military hardware come weeks before the Armenian side. The largest exercises last year his message. in the exercises, according to Azerbaijan’s country’s early presidential election sched- were held in April and involved some 30,000 Sargsyan recalled his fond memories of Ministry of Defense. uled for April 11. troops. Those war games came a year after meetings with Pope Francis at the Holy The issue of Nagorno-Karabakh, an According to official sources in Azerbaijan, the deadliest Armenian-Azerbaijani fighting See and in Armenia. Armenian-control region that broke away during the exercises “army units will repulse in Nagorno-Karabakh since the 1994 cease- from Azerbaijan as a result of a war in the the attack of the conventional enemy and fire known as a four-day war. 4 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR INTERNATIONAL International News Turkey’s Syrian Offensive: Azerbaijan Angry with US over Karabakh Self-Defense or Violation of International Law? President Visit What Strategic Aims? STEPANAKERT (Public Radio of Armenia) — By Muriel Mirak-Weissbach Turkey has not in fact used the words “armed attack” Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry has summoned the US Special to the Mirror-Spectator to identify the perceived threat, but it has presented a list Ambassador to the country Robert Cekuta in con- of its own military aims, which is extremely revealing. nection with Nagorno Karabakh President Bako This was issued by the prime minister’s office on January Sahakyan’s visit to Washington this week and an BERLIN — Turkey’s offensive in northern Syria is com- 21 and is quoted at length in the experts’ report, in event expected to be held in the US Congress, ing under growing censure throughout Europe. It will be English, on page 16. The aims are: Hikmat Hajiyev, spokesman for Azerbaijan’s Foreign high on the list of foreign policy challenges facing the “To ensure the Turkey-supported Free Syrian Army Ministry said, according to Azeri media reports. German government which has just come into being. (FSA) takes control of a 10.000-square kilometer area Hajiyev said that Ambassador Cekuta received a Under the leadership of Chancellor Angela Merkel, a new Following on from the Euphrates Shield Operation and note of protest, sent by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of version of the grand coalition made up of her CDU and the operation in Idlib, to completely prevent the outlawed Foreign Affairs to the U.S. Department of State. sister party CSU, together with the Social Democrats Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) from reaching the Azerbaijan’s ambassador to the US also held a (SPD), was officially constituted in mid March. Eastern Mediterranean. meeting at the State Department to express the Turkey launched its military offensive aimed at Afrin To eliminate the possibility of losing Turkey’s geo- Azerbaijani side’s protest, the spokesman added. on January 20, and justified its massive deployment of graphical contact with the Arab world. “As a response to such behavior of the US, military strength as “self-defense.” But is the claim sub- To ensure the security of Turkey’s borders with Syria. Azerbaijan will proceed from the principle of reci- stantiated? If it were, Turkey would have the right to To prevent the infiltration of the Syrian Democratic procity in relations with the US,” Hajiyev stressed. respond militarily, according to international law, as long Union Party (PYD) and the PKK into Turkey through the as it did so in a “proportionate and measured manner,” Amanos mountains. as NATO secretary general Stoltenberg put it. The To prevent a terrorist organization from opening to the Three Armenians on reports of civilian casualties speak of hundreds of inno- Mediterranean and to the world from here. cents, mainly women and children; and Turkish President To ensure the security and continuation of the Forbes Billionaires’ List Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stated that over 3,000 Kurds, Euphrates Shield Operation area. MOSCOW (Public Radio of Armenia) — There are whom he defined “terrorists,” have been “neutralized.” To counter US support for a terrorist organization.” three Armenians on 2018 World’s Billionaires List Massive destruction of infrastructure has resulted from Such a detailed list of strategic goals is most useful. published by Forbes on March 6. the bombardments. This does not look proportionate or What indeed is really behind the operation? The experts Founder and CEO of Magnit, Russia’s biggest measured. sum it up thus: “The geostrategic interest of Turkey supermarket chain and owner of football team In fact, not only is the claim to self-defense dubious; it apparently aims to contain the Kurdish sphere of influ- Krasnodar Sergei Galitsky (Arutyunyan) (550th) is is becoming evident that the Turkish action, cynically ence in Syria, and to prevent the emergence of a de facto the world’s richest Armenian with an estimated net named “Operation Olive Branch,” constitutes a violation Kurdish regime and simultaneously to use the opportu- worth of $4 billion. of international law. nity offered by a collapse of Syria and the “Islamic State” to expand its own sphere of influence. From Turkey’s Head of Tashir Group Samvel Karapetyan is listed Bundestag Experts Raise Doubts 606th with a net worth of $3.7. Argentinean viewpoint the takeover or siege of the Syrian city Afrin Armenian businessman Eduardo Eurnekian is 887th On March 7 the Wissenschaftliche Dienste (Scientific appears to be a geostrategically necessary step for reach- with a net worth of $2.7 billion. Service) of the German Bundestag (Parliament) issued a ing these aims.” Forbes has pinned down a record 2,208 billionaires report on the matter, in response to the request of In a footnote, one reads that in fact Erdogan already on from 72 countries and territories including the first- Alexander Neu, a parliamentarian from the leftist opposi- February 20 announced that the siege of Afrin was immi- ever from Hungary and Zimbabwe. This elite group is tion party, Die Linke. The Scientific Service is an official nent. worth $9.1 trillion, up 18 percent since last year. group of researchers and experts who provide material in The experts argue that the “concept of self-defense Their average net worth is a record $4.1 billion. Americans lead the way with a record 585 billion- aires, followed by mainland China with 373. Amazon’s chief Jeff Bezos secures the list’s top spot for the first time, becoming the only person to The experts’ report questions the appear in the Forbes ranks with a 12-figure fortune. Bezos’s fortune leapt more than $39 billion, the proportionality of Turkey’s response, stating list’s biggest one-year gain ever. He moves ahead of Bill Gates, who is now number 2. It is the biggest gap that there are objective criteria to ascertain between no. 1 and 2 since 2001. Warren Buffett is third with a net worth of $84 bil- this and adding that self-defense cannot lion. Bernard Arnault, with a fortune of $72 billion, justify acts of vengeance. reclaims the title of richest European for the first time since 2012. There are 259 newcomers including the first ever cryptocurrency billionaires. support of the work of the parliamentarians, but it does appears in principle incompatible with a military action not represent its political positions or those of the gov- that pursues aims that could lead to achieving a perma- Intensive Armenian ernment. nent change of structures and zones of influence on the The body examined the issue in great detail and pub- territory of a foreign state.” And that is what one gathers Language and Culture lished its findings online on March 7. The report was enti- must be the aim of Turkey’s offensive. Course in Venice tled, “Evaluation according to International Law of the The report shows that Turkey has presented no con- ‘Operation Olive Branch’ of Turkey against the Kurdish vincing proof that it has been subject to an “armed VENICE — The 33rd sesion of the Summer Course YPG in Northern Syria” (WD2 – 3000 – 023/18, attack,” or that the threat it sees coming from non-state of Armenian Language and Culture organized by the Völkerrechtliche Bewertung der “Operation Olivenzweig” armed groups warrants actions of self-defense. Turkey’s “Padus-Araxes” Association will take place July 30 to der Türkei gegen die kurdische YPG in Nordsyrien, 7 geostrategic aims, furthermore, go way beyond the scope August 14. Examinations will take place on August März 2018, S. 1-18). The group first asked if Turkey had of self-defense. In conclusion, the experts declare that 14th. the right to act militarily “in self-defense.” According to Turkey’s case rests “on a shaky foundation.” They rec- To apply, fill in the application form on the web- Article 51 of the UN Charta a state is authorized to ommend that NATO partners should call on Turkey to site: www.padusaraxes. com/SummerCourse/ respond to an “armed attack,” but not every act of vio- prove its case, and to desist from further pursuance of its ApplicationForm. Applications must be submitted lence can be thus defined. Turkey argued in its declara- military operation. personally in written form. Applications will be tion to the UN Security Council that it was responding to The appearance of this report has contributed to defin- accepted up to the deadline of June 30. an escalation of rocket attacks from Kurdish forces near ing the agenda for the new government, regarding how to Those applying must be at least 18 years of age. Afrin targeting Kilis and Hatay, but is it true? There were proceed with Turkey. Politicians in Ankara continue to no reports of such in the international press. And if there lobby for a restoration of friendly ties, but with expand- were, would this constitute an “armed attack”? The ing coverage of civilian casualties, protest demonstra- Turkish PM Binali report says the burden of proof is on the accuser, in this tions are growing in numbers and intensity in Germany Yildirimn to Visit case Turkey, and says it may have presented a “substan- and elsewhere. Demonstrators have been denouncing tiated explanation,” but has not established the absolute Germany’s continued delivery of military equipment to Azerbaijan certainty of the accusation or “convincing proof” that the Turkey; opposition politicians have raised a hue and cry threat merits military self-defense. An accurate evalua- about continued economic support for trade relations. ANKARA (Armenpress) — Turkey’s Prime tion would rely on “objective facts” and not only the Criticism is getting louder, but no serious political steps Minister Binali Yildirimn visited Azerbaijan on “subjective perception of threat;” perhaps the have been taken by governments in Europe. How long March 14, Turkish media report. International Court at the Hague could determine this. will the NATO “partners” continue to look the other way? Yildirimn participated in the 6th Baku World The experts’ report questions the proportionality of Forum. Turkey’s response, stating that there are objective crite- (The author expresses her thanks to the During the visit the Turkish premier also met with ria to ascertain this and adding that self-defense cannot Wissenschaftliche Dienste for the kind permission to quote President Ilham Aliyev, Prime Minister Artur justify acts of vengeance. Concrete doubts regarding the from the report. Apart from the list of strategic aims, Rasizade and Speaker of Parliament Ogtay Asadov. proportionality of its response have arisen as a result of which appears in English on page 16 of the report, and the the “scale, aims and duration of the military course of phrase by Stoltenberg, other quotes have been translated action in northern Syria.” from the original German by the author.) S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 INTERNATIONAL

Members of Congress Commemorate Sumgait Pogroms’ Anniversary

WASHINGTON — Congressional Caucus on ing is that perpetrators of these events and a daily basis, and in April 2016 Azerbaijan in Sumgait, Azerbaijan. Yet, the violence and Armenian Issues Co-Chair Congressman similar violent attacks have since been lauded resumed full-scale warfare for four days before hatred of the pogroms failed in suppressing Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Congressional as national heroes.” He added: “I will contin- it was prevailed upon to halt its aggression. the Armenian people. Their dedication to self- Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Vice Chair ue to work with my colleagues on the “Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the determination burned on, and their refusal to Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Congressional Armenian Issues Caucus to 30th anniversary of the pogrom against the sacrifice their freedom inspired democratic Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) issued state- remember the victims of the pogroms at Armenian residents of the town of Sumgait, movements across the Soviet Union. To the ments in commemoration of the 30th anniver- Sumgait and to condemn all acts of violence Azerbaijan. On February 27 1988, and for thousands of Armenian Americans living in sary of Azerbaijan’s anti-Armenian pogroms in against people who are targeted simply three days following, Azerbaijani mobs our San Joaquin Valley - and to Armenian peo- Sumgait, Kirovabad, and Baku, reported the because of their existence. I hope my col- assaulted and killed Armenians. The violence ple living throughout the world, l stand with Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly). leagues will join me in rejecting violent left hundreds of Armenian civilians dead and you. We must continue to advocate for the Invited by the Armenian Caucus leadership, a rhetoric and intimidation by renewing our injured, women and girls were raped, and protection of human rights and democratic delegation from Artakh (Nagorno Karabakh), commitment to achieving a collective and last- some victims were burned alive. Thousands freedoms, for the Armenian people, and for led by President Bako Sahakyan, are in ing peace.” were forced to flee their homes, leaving all.” Washington, D.C. for a week-long working Beginning in Sumgait in 1988, and spread- behind their belonging,” Rep. Schiff informed This year also marks the 30th anniversary visit, where they will be able to meet and ing to the cities of Kirovabad in 1989 and his colleagues on the House floor. “The of Artsakh’s Liberation Movement that was speak with Members of Congress regarding Baku in 1990, armed mobs of Azerbaijani cit- pogroms came about as the result of years of sparked in 1988 by the spreading threat of the strengthening the U.S.-Artsakh relationship. izens took to the streets targeting Armenian vicious, racist anti-Armenian propaganda by pogroms. Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Rep. Pallone said on the House floor: “On residences and destroying Armenian-owned Azerbaijani authorities, dehumanizing Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Rep. David Valadao February 27, 1988, up to 200 Armenian civil- businesses while Azerbaijan security services Armenians. Azerbaijan authorities made little (R-CA), and Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) and Co- ians living in the city of Sumgait in Azerbaijan stood by. The Sumgait pogrom was widely effort to punish those responsible, instead Vice Chair Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) provided were indiscriminately killed, raped, maimed, reported and roundly condemned, but the vio- attempting to cover up the atrocities in remarks to commemorate this anniversary and even burned alive for no reason other lence was never contained. Increasingly, anti- Sumgait to this day, and denying the govern- and congratulate the people of Artsakh. than their ethnicity. This senseless violence Armenian forces acted with impunity and the ment role in instigating the killings. Indeed, “On behalf of the Armenian American com- was instigated by hostile, anti-Armenian pogroms spread across Azerbaijan, leading to even today, racist propaganda against munity, I thank the Congressional Caucus on rhetoric from Azerbaijani citizens and officials the military campaigns of the late 1980s to Armenia and Armenians is prevalent in Armenian Issues for its leadership and princi- against these innocent individuals. For three 1994 to deport the Armenians of Artsakh, Azerbaijan,” he continued. pled stand in sending a strong message of sup- decades, Azerbaijan has taken steps to cover until a cease-fire agreement was signed by On February 28, Rep. Costa stated: “This port for Armenians in Artsakh in the face of up these crimes against humanity and dismiss Azerbaijan, Artsakh, and Armenia. Since then, week marks the 30th anniversary of the Azeri aggression,” stated Assembly Executive the atrocities at Sumgait. Even more disturb- the cease-fire agreement has been violated on pogroms against people of Armenian descent Director Bryan Ardouny. Diasporan-Armenian Community in Barcelona Rises

donations. By Aram Arkun Every month or two there are lectures or other public events. Sometimes Armenian Mirror-Spectator Staff speakers from other parts of Europe and Armenia come and visit. Some events are BARCELONA, Spain — When you ask intended more for a Spanish/Catalan audience Armenians about the Armenian community of than for the local Armenians. For example, on Barcelona, the only name at best that comes up February 20, the Armenian ambassador to is that of Vigen Hovsepyan. Now a Yerevan- Spain, Avet Adonts, came from Madrid and par- based singer, Hovsepyan lived in Barcelona with ticipated in a panel at the Centre Internacional his family as a teenager, and sings Spanish and Escarré per a les Minories Ètniques i les Armenian songs. However, there is an active Nacions (CIEMEN) devoted to the 30th anniver- community there that deserves to be better sary of the Karabakh Movement along with known. journalist and director of VilaWeb Vicent Partal The Armenians of Barcelona form the most and Abel Riu, political scientist specializing in organized segment of the Spanish-Armenian the post-Soviet realm. community. Most are recent immigrants from On the other hand, on March 4, the chil- Armenia and other parts of the former Soviet dren celebrated International Mother Union, though there were scattered numbers of Language Day at the Hay Doun with a pre- individuals coming to Spain from the Middle sentation primarily for the local community. East and elsewhere even before this. Datev International Mother Language Day March 4 presentation at the Casa Armenia Armenian teachers, ACAB maintains good relations with the gov- Soulian, president of the Associació Cultural including Tamara Karapetyan, Anahit Ghazaryan, Narine Kulikyan, Naira Madinyan, Narine ernment of Armenia and its embassy in Spain Armenia de Barcelona (ACAB), estimates that Yerimyan and Marine Avanesyan, and their students at the Casa Armenia on Saturday, February 24 and various diasporan organizations like the there are around 3,000 Armenians in AGBU. Soulian pointed out that it strives to Barcelona, as well as more in surrounding keep the Armenian cultural identity alive in areas. Though many initial immigrants went center called Casa Armenia or Hay Doun Every Saturday, the community gets Spain. Most families have relatives in Armenia into construction and restaurant work, as acces- (Armenian House) which it established in coop- together, with chess lessons, Armenian lan- and sometimes go back during vacations, so sible initial jobs, there are now many profes- eration with the Armenian General Benevolent guage classes, and dance lessons. this identity is strong, but it is the new genera- sionals in fields like law or business. Union in 2010. It is located in a central location Occasionally the students perform at events. tions born in Spain which will require more sup- The association keeps in touch with many in the upscale Eixample neighborhood. The teachers are all volunteers, and text- port to combat assimilation. ACAB is working Armenians through email and social media. It Although few Armenians actually live in this books are sent from Armenia. Students pay a to create programs for their needs. has a website (www.acab.es) and Facebook neighborhood, it is convenient because of the nominal fee of 25 Euros a month, while par- The community is a growing one and is wel- page. Founded in 2004, ACAB has a physical good public transportation network. ents and members of the association make coming to guests from other countries.

International Mother Language Day March 4 presentation at the Casa Armenia 6 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community News

Senate Select ‘Armenian Women: Committee holds Leadership, Historic hearing Empowerment, On Armenia Human Rights’ at

SACRAMENTO — State Sen. Anthony J. Tufts University Portantino convened a public hearing in MEDFORD, Mass. — A panel discus- Sacramento on California-Armenia trade agree- sion on “Armenian Women: Leadership, ments, civil rights issues, and University of Empowerment, and Human Rights” will California Divestiture from the Republic of take place on Wednesday, April 11, at Turkey on Thursday, March 1. 7:30 p.m., at Tufts University, Alumnae Senators Scott Wilk, Ben Allen and John Lounge, 40 Talbot Ave. Moorlach were also in attendance. The hearing, The program is organized by the which was the first of its kind, provided updates National Association for Armenian on Portantino’s ongoing efforts toward Studies and Research (NAASR) / strengthening and formalizing ties between Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation California and Armenia. Portantino Chairs the Lecture Series on Contemporary Senate Select Committee on California, Armenian Issues and hosted by the Armenia and Artsakh Trade, Art and Cultural Tufts Armenian Club, with the co-spon- Exchange. Portantino convened a joint hearing sorship of the Armenian Bar of both committees he chairs. Association, AGBU-YP Boston, “Yesterday, was a great day for California, Armenian International Women’s Armenia and Artsakh relations and I was very Association (AIWA), all ASAs at Boston- proud to be a part of it. Our speakers and pre- Area Universities, and New Paths- senters made a passionate case for the recogni- Bridging Armenian Women. tion of human rights abuses and the benefits of The panel will be moderated by Dr. signing a mutual trade agreement between Anna Ohanyan, Richard B. Finnegan California and Armenian. The UCLA students Distinguished Professor of Political were particularly compelling with their pas- Science and International Relations, sionate presentation on Divestiture. It made me From left, Rep. Frank Pallone Jr., Edmon Marukyan and Arpine Hovhannisyan at United States Capitol Stonehill College, and will feature the excited to be in the Capitol,” commented participation of Dr. Denise Horn, asso- Portantino. ciate professor and chair, political sci- The hearing consisted of three panels of ence and international relations, speakers, each discussing a different topic of Armenian Assembly Welcomes Simmons College; Nairi Krafian, past Armenian importance. The first panel featured president, Tufts University Armenian moving testimony by Armenian-American Club, and founder of Oknooshoon ani- activist and author, Anna Astvatsurian Armenia-US Parliamentary mal therapy project in Armenia; via Turcotte. Turcotte detailed her family’s story of Skype, Nvard Manasyan, Gender escape from the Nagorno-Karabkah War. Her Friendship Group Equality Officer, UNICEF; and Maro presentation set the backdrop for the remain- Matossian, executive director, Women’s der of the hearing, as it highlighted how far WASHINGTON — This week, the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) Support Center, Armenia. Artsakh has come in the last two decades and welcomed a delegation of the Armenia-US Parliamentary Friendship Group dur- Many studies ing their trip to Washington, D.C. The delegation was in Washington for a series have demon- of meetings, including a roundtable discussion with Assembly Board of Trustees strated that Co-Chair Anthony Barsamian, Board Member Annie Totah, and Executive investment in Director Bryan Ardouny, as well as Armenian National Institute (ANI) Director women and Dr. Rouben Adalian. girls strength- The delegation of Armenian Parliamentarians is led by Arpine Hovhannisyan, ens democracy Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia and Chairwoman of the and weakens Armenia-US Parliamentary Friendship Group. She is joined by Parliamentarians authoritarian- Armen Ashotyan, Edmon Marukyan, Aghvan Vardanyan and Naira Zohrabyan. ism, makes fam- This working visit comes six months after US Members of Congress visited ilies healthier, Maro Matossian, exec- Armenia and Artsakh, as part of a US Congressional Delegation. peace agree- utive director, Women’s “We are thrilled that this first trip has been made by so many of the Members ments more Support Center, of Parliament, and we look forward to many more,” said Congressional Caucus durable and Armenia. on Armenian Issues Co-Chair Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA), an societies less Armenian American who participated in the US Congressional Delegation in vulnerable to September 2017. extremism, violence and terrorist Throughout the week, Members of Parliament met with Democratic Leader recruitment. Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Ed Unfortunately, many studies also Royce (R-CA), Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Ranking Member show that gender discrimination and State Sen. Anthony J. Portantino and Armenian Caucus Co-Vice Chair Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Armenian physical assaults on women are global see FRIENDSHIP, page 7 and systemic in nature. From the “Me how far it still needs to go. By listening to the Too” movement, women’s marches in harrowing details of the war, which must not be Washington, New York City and Boston, forgotten, the State Legislature could better all the way to the City Council in grasp the need for California to cooperate and Yerevan, it has become painfully clear help Artsakh thrive. that violence against women is a world- The second panel was composed of two wide phenomenon. experts on trade agreements, one from The panelists will examine the causes, California’s perspective and one from costs, and consequences of gender dis- Armenia’s. Gordon Hinkle, Senior Vice crimination and violence against President, Global Operations at Golden women in Armenia and the Diaspora. California Inc./California Center discussed how The conversation will draw from experi- California has benefited from signing ences in Southeast Asia with a focus on Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with empowerment of women as it relates to China, including building trade, cultural, and development strategies, civil society business relationships between the two govern- development and democratization. ments. Hinkle also expressed enthusiasm at the The program is free and open to the idea of working with Armenia in building those public. There will be a reception and ties. Valery Mktroumian, Deputy Consul refreshments immediately following the General of the Republic of Armenia, discussed program and question-and-answer ses- From left, Arpine Hovhannisyan, Armen Ashotyan, Rita Balian, Mariam the long and prosperous relationship California sion. Khaloyan and Bryan Ardouny at United States Capitol. has had with Armenia. He testified that the Parking is available in the Dowling California International Trade Office in Garage at 419 Boston Ave. and in des- Armenia (CITO), made possible with the ignated on-street areas. see HEARING, page 9 S A T U R D A Y , M A R C H 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Armenian Assembly Welcomes Armenia-US Parliamentary Friendship Group

FRIENDSHIP, from page 6 just that.” Caucus Vice Co-Chair Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), On March 7, the Assembly joined the Foreign Affairs Committee Members Rep. David Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues in Cicilline (D-RI) and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), co-hosting a reception on Capitol Hill welcom- Commission on Security and Cooperation in ing the Armenian Parliamentary Delegation, Europe (US Helsinki Commission) Co-Chair alongside the Embassy of Armenia to the Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), and House Democracy United States and other Armenian organiza- Partnership Program Commission Ranking tions. Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Frank Member and founder Rep. David Price (D-NC). Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Rep. Dave Trott (R-MI), and During their conversation with Members of Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) were in attendance, in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, they dis- addition to Reps. Judy Chu (D-CA), Jim Costa cussed US-Armenia relations, the crisis in (D-CA), Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Raja Nagorno-Karabakh, and Armenia’s acceptance Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Brenda Lawrence (D- of refugees from Iraq and Syria. Chairman MI), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Royce stated: “Armenia and the United States and Paul Tonko (D-NY). enjoy a valuable and growing relationship. In At the reception, Members of Congress particular, Armenia’s contributions to countert- offered remarks welcoming the Armenian errorism efforts and its assistance to Syrian Parliamentary delegation and sharing their refugees have been crucial. But there are still thoughts on US-Armenia relations. many opportunities to further strengthen our Pallone touched upon their earlier discussions relationship on security and human rights pri- on a number of priorities of the Armenian Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-CA), Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA), Armenian orities in the region. I look forward to doing Caucus to help improve relations with Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker Arpine Hovhannisyan, Armenian Parliament Member Edmon Marukyan, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), and Armenian Parliament Member Armen Ashotyan

and Artsakh. He described this visit as “an oppor- have the best dream and life they can, because tunity to talk about substantive issues that we that will help America more than anything else. can make a difference on.” He continued: “I can- So, we want to make sure the Administration not overemphasize how important it is for us to and State Department continue to understand go to Armenia, for them to come here, and for us how important this relationship is, and I’ll do to exchange ideas because that can really make everything I can to accomplish that,” Trott said. a difference in terms of the future of the rela- Speier recalled their meeting earlier that day tionship between our two countries.” with Leader Pelosi, and the important dialogue Trott spoke about the current House between the legislators. Resolution, H.Res.220, which reaffirms the “We met this afternoon with the Democratic Armenian Genocide. He proudly shared that Leader Nancy Pelosi, and I said to her ‘this is the this resolution currently has more co-sponsors new Armenia, and the new Armenia is all about than any Armenian Genocide resolution in the moving to this parliamentary structure to create past seven years. He then went on to note the greater democracy and we want to be part of see- importance of strong US-Armenia relations. ing Armenia succeed in this 21st century,” “When President Trump talks about America Speier said. “We need to find a way to create an First, I agree with that but for me, what that environment where all of those in Armenia can means is friends like Armenia. We need to have thrive and can succeed. One of the messages that a strong relationship. We need to have you our community from Armenia brought was one know that we are there to help you, and we are of finding a way to create greater IT opportuni- From left, John Evans, Tulsi Gabbard and Dr. Rouben Adalian at United States Capitol there to trade with you, and we are there to ties. So we are going to look at how we can do work with you to make sure that your citizens that. We want to support this democracy. We are thrilled that this first trip has been made by so many of the Members of Parliament, and we look forward to many more.” Commenting on the United States’ strong rela- tionship with Armenia and Artsakh, Chu said: “I’m so happy to be celebrating the strong and enduring US-Armenia relationship. Ours is a true friendship, based on shared values and goals.

Edmon Marukyan and Dr. Rouben Adalian

That is why I’m proud to support economic and military aid to Armenia, and to support Armenians in Artsakh in their fight for peace. And it is my sincere hope that, through our con- tinued efforts together, we can finally put the American government on the right side of histo- ry and acknowledge the reality of the Armenian Genocide once and for all. None of this would be possible without the support and hard work of the Congressional Armenian Caucus and groups like the Armenian Assembly of America.” The Armenian Assembly hosted a round table discussion, where its leadership exchanged ideas with the Armenian Parliamentary Delegation and Armenian Ambassador to the US Grigor Hovhannissian on a broad range of issues, including its work with Congress and the State Department. The Assembly refer- enced the first US Congressional Delegation to Armenia, organized by the Assembly, and the importance of this mutual exchange. ANI Director Dr. Adalian then discussed his work at the Institute, and the importance to educate Armenians and Americans on the history of the Armenian Genocide, and the resolutions and policies enacted as a result. 8 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR OBITUARIES

Though Sarkis made no secret that he loved In 1999, Sarkis married Jolene Sykes, who Charles Sarkis, 78 his father, he said in a 1994 interview that he has served as publisher and president of had decided early in life to keep his distance Fortune magazine. In recent years they lived in from Abe’s unsavory career. “I wanted to be as Palm Beach, Fla. Built Restaurant Empire far away from that life as I could get,” he said In 2011 and 2012, Sarkis sold the bulk of his then. “I just knew it wasn’t right and I couldn’t restaurants to the Tavistock Group and live that way. I didn’t have the nervous system Newport Harbor Corp., his wife said. Two final beyond his physical presence. I think that was to do it.” restaurants, in New Jersey, are scheduled to By Bryan Marquard one of the unspoken secrets of his success,” The older of two siblings, Charles F. Sarkis close at the end of this month. said Ann Marie Escobar, chief operating officer grew up in Milton, the only son of Abraham Because of how certain provisions in the of Legal Sea Foods. Sarkis and the former Dorothy Rooney. His sis- Tavistock deal affected three of his children, BOSTON (Boston Globe) — During the 50 “He was so consistent and so focused that ter, Dorothy Morkis, became a successful rider who worked for the Back Bay Restaurant years he ran an expansive restaurant empire people who worked with him wanted to be as and competitor in equestrian competitions. Group, family acrimony became public around unlike any other in Boston, Charlie Sarkis the time of the sale and was detailed in the strode through life as if it were one of his Globe. “I am selling my business due to my age, dozens of dining rooms. His eyes noticed every- my serious health issues, and my business and thing: the cut of a steak, the quality of service, personal financial situation,” Sarkis wrote at the bottom line. the time in an e-mail to the Globe. Sarkis, who was 78 when he died Sunday, “I care very much about the business I built, March 11, in Florida of complications from and even more about my children,” he added, brain cancer, at one point presided over an “and I will continue — privately — to do the best abundant list of more than 30 dining destina- I can for both.” tions that included his flagship Abe & Louie’s, Over the years, Sarkis “was most proud of along with Atlantic Fish Company, J.C. Hillary’s the people he employed and how many he Ltd., Charley’s Eating and Drinking Saloon, employed,” his wife said. “He really felt he and the Papa Razzi and Joe’s American Bar & was a contributor to Boston and to Grill chains. Massachusetts because he hired and trained Complex and unafraid to be combative while so many people.” fighting to protect the 3,400 jobs at his estab- Services will be announced for Sarkis, who in lishments, Sarkis was just as well known for addition to his sister, of Dover, and his wife owning the Wonderland Greyhound Park in leaves three daughters, Nancy Corcoran of Revere and a harness racing track in Walpole, Amy of Westwood, and Sarah of Foxborough — gambling pursuits that even Honolulu; three sons, Charles Jr. of Canton, admirers found unusual in a man who made no Paul of Los Angeles, and Patrick of Boston; his secret of his wish to distance himself from the wife’s daughter from a previous marriage, criminal reputation of his father, one of Katherine Henry of Dallas; five grandchildren; Boston’s best-known bookies. and three step-grandchildren. Though Sarkis chose very public ways to perfect-seeking,” said Escobar, who worked for Sarkis graduated from Georgetown “He was so fun and so funny,” his wife said. make his fortune, he was famously private. Yet Sarkis for 30 years and was executive vice pres- University with a bachelor’s degree in business “He was just so full of life and exuberance. He when he opened up in an interview in 2005, it ident of operations for Back Bay Restaurant and received a master’s in business from was always pursuing the best of everything, so was to discuss the very personal challenges he Group. “His true life passion was this business Boston College. it was always a fun ride with him.” had faced recovering from his first brain and the hospitality part of this business. He While living in Washington, D.C., and study- Sarkis kept working for some 16 years after surgery in 1995 and his efforts to steer others knew in his soul how to do it right.” ing at Georgetown, he watched gentrification his first bout with brain cancer, in 1995, even with brain tumors to top-notch doctors. “I’m At many of his other restaurants, including change the neighborhood around campus. though it affected his ability to recognize faces. not as tough as you think, you know,” he told Charley’s on Newbury Street, Sarkis nurtured “That’s where he got the restaurant bug,” his “It’s my little secret,” he confided in 2005. The the Globe. “Can I be a pain? All that and more. an appealing formula: attentive service, gener- wife said. “He was going out to eat most nights recurring illness was humbling. He said that a But I learned we don’t control what we think ous drinks, and good meals that avoided the and he thought, ‘This is what the Back Bay couple of days before undergoing surgery we control. And you have to pass something pretentiousness of what he dismissed as “cheffy should be like.’ ” again, he walked into a healing service at a on.” restaurants” with their complicated fare. In 1964, Sarkis bought Boraschi’s restaurant Holliston chapel. “I looked around and said: He cut an elegant figure in his dark tailored His gambling ventures were less simple. He in Boston. He went on to open Charley’s on ‘Everyone is here for hope. Why do I think I’m suits, silk ties, and crisp shirts, but he never waged and lost a legal battle with New England Newbury Street in 1970 and proceeded to any better than anyone else?’ And I stayed. It ducked a fight to protect his life’s work, Patriots owner Robert Kraft in the late 1990s expand his empire into a string of East Coast was one of those life-altering moments.” whether in a courtroom, a regulatory hearing, over property adjacent to the team’s restaurants. He added: “Sometimes I feel sorry for myself. or the pages of newspapers where his quotes Foxborough stadium, which Sarkis operated Sarkis married Nancy Hennessey in 1960, Then I say, ‘You’re the luckiest guy in the could slice as sharply as a carving knife. first as a thoroughbred track and then for har- and they had six children. Their marriage ended world.’” At times his commanding presence said most ness racing — all of which he was forced to let in divorce in 1998. She died in 2012. of what he needed to say, as was the case when go when a judge ruled against his claims in a he presided at Abe & Louie’s on Boylston lease dispute. Street. With its dark wood, brass rails, and With Wonderland, which he ran through his heavy cutlery, the steakhouse was a cut above Westwood Group, Sarkis persevered through the rest in the Back Bay Restaurant Group the ups and downs of the economy and Sarkis headed, and it became one of the city’s through legislative fights over various gambling most successful restaurants, attracting top bills. The track closed in 2010, nearly two years Boston sports stars or a visiting Warren Buffett after a state referendum banned greyhound rac- F UNERAL H OME ing. Giragosian to its elegant private dining room. As with his James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC other restaurants, Sarkis kept a table for him- All those battles seemed tame next to the Mark J. Giragosian self offering a view of the kitchen, the front upheaval in 1990, when 40 people, including Funeral Counselors his father and Wonderland’s general manager, door, and the bar. When the need arose, he 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 pounded on the table to emphasize a point. were indicted on charges of running an illegal www.giragosianfuneralhome.com If a deferential waiter asked whether his meal gaming operation. Though Sarkis was not passed muster, Sarkis would gesture to a near- charged, he again found himself in the shadow by patron. “He would say, ‘Don’t ask me, ask of his father, Abraham, whom prosecutors him. I have to be here. He doesn’t have to come called the mastermind behind the scheme to back,’ ” recalled his wife, Jolene. “Charlie want- illegally arrange bets at off-track premises. Telephone (617) 924-7400 ed everybody treated the same way. He wanted Abraham Sarkis, who had been convicted in an everyone to come and have a great meal.” unrelated bookmaking case years earlier, died Aram Bedrosian Sarkis “had the real ability to affect people in 1991, before the charges against him in the with his presence, and his presence lived Wonderland arrest were resolved. Funeral Home, Inc. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 MARION BEDROSIAN 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN

DENNIS M. DEVENEY & SONS Cemetery Monuments Specializing in Armenian Designs and Lettering 701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543 (781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Knights and Daughters of Vartan Welcome Armenian Parliamentary Delegation to Washington

WASHINGTON — On March 6, the Knights Edmon Marukhyan, Aghvan Vardanyan and the government and the political parties, espe- to the parliamentary delegation and the invited and Daughters of Vartan of Washington, DC, Naira Zoorabyan. cially regarding the welfare of the people. Then guests from the Washington community hosted a community-wide reception to welcome (See related stories on the delegation’s visit he invited Ambassador Grigor Hovhannesyan, Armenian organizations, churches, along with five members of the Armenia-US Parliamentary on pages 1 and 6.) who thanked Knights and Daughters of Vartan Armenian advocacy organizations, the delegation, visiting Washington DC for a series Sareen and Arya Balian sang the National for the event and presented the members of the Armenian National Committee of America and of meetings with US government officials, anthems of America and Armenia. Parish coun- delegation of the Armenian Parliament. the Armenian Assembly of America. politicians and Armenian-American community cil Chairmen of both St. Mary’s Armenian Arpine Hovhannisyan reiterated the impor- The dinner was followed by a lively discus- leaders. The trip has been organized by the Church and Soorp Khach Armenian Church, tance of the Armenian Diaspora and announced sion, during which the parliamentary members Armenian Embassy, in cooperation with the Onnik Sivaslian and Hrant Jamgochian, respec- that this is the first visit of its kind to Capitol answered questions from the participants. Congressional Armenian Caucus. tively, welcomed the dignitaries. Knights of Hill by an Armenian delegation. During the discussions, the group addressed After a prayer by Fr. Sarkis Aktavookian, a the transition of Armenia to a parliamentary traditional Armenian Lenten dinner was served mode. Senate Select Committee holds Historic hearing on Armenia

HEARING, from page 6 for this opportunity and we are optimistic that leadership of former Senator Jack Scott and it will lead to a positive outcome,” commented Governor Gray Davis, was of immense benefit to Arev Hovsepian, Co-Founder Divest Turkey and Armenia and articulated his support for a former UCLA student. renewed trade office in Armenia. He noted how After all speakers had made their presenta- Parliamentary delegates third row with members of Daughters of Vartan of Washington, D.C. far Armenia has come in the decade since the tions, Senator Portantino, together with his col- trade office closed, with special focus on the league, Senator Wilk, presented a Senate The Armenia-US Parliamentary Delegation is Vartan Commander Kevork Marashlian empha- booming tech industry Armenia boasts. Resolution to members of Armenian grassroots headed by Arpine Hovhannisyan, deputy speak- sized that the silent majority of Diaspora The third panel featured a discussion of the organizations commemorating the 30th er of the National Assembly of Armenia and Armenians supports the foreign affairs of the University of California’s (UC) investments in anniversary of the Sumgait Pogrom. The tragic includes Parliamentarians of four major politi- country as well as the Armenian people, but the Republics of Turkey and Armenia and high- event, which commenced on the eve of cal parties of Armenia, Armen Ashotyan, that they are entitled to constructive critique of lighted why divestment from the Republic of February 28th, 1988, resulted in the death of Turkey is particularly prudent moving forward. 200 Armenian men, women, and children and is Jagdeep Bachher, Chief Investment Officer, Vice considered to be the start of the Nagorno President of Investments spoke first, detailing Karabakh War. Azeris planned and orchestrat- Cambridge-Yerevan Sister City Association to what kinds of investments the UC makes, what ed the brutal massacres which targeted risk factors it considers in making those deci- Armenians solely for their heritage following Sponsor Panel Discussion on 3D Printing sions, and how under his leadership the institu- their peaceful protest calling for historic tion’s involvement with the American Armenian lands to be liberated. MEDFORD, Mass. — The Cambridge-Yerevan Workshop, Burlington; AJ Perez, NV Bots, University of Armenia has grown. With that The resolution, which commemorated all of Sister City Association (CYSCA) has organized a Boston; Chris Templeman, Garage Makerspace background in mind, members heard the impas- the victims who perished in the Sumgait panel discussion on 3D printing: the wave of the (NERD), Microsoft, Cambridge. Jack Keverian, sioned speeches of two of the co-founders of Pogroms, was read aloud during the televised future. The event is co-sponsored by Tufts Peabody will offer an overview of 3D printing. the Divest Turkey campaign, Arev Hovespian hearing. The leaders of the Armenian National Armenian Club and the National Association for The discussion will cover the education, appli- and Razmig Sarkissian, as well as current mem- Committee – Western Region and the Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR). This cation, manufacture of 3D printers and is intend- ber of the campaign, Aram Manoukian. They Armenian Assembly of America were present to event is being held as part of the annual ed for the general public. Since its inception, 3D reminded the legislature of Turkey’s ongoing accept the resolution. Cambridge Science Festival on Thursday, April printing has been innovative in various indus- human rights abuses against ethnic minorities During the public comment portion of the 19, 7-9 p.m. at Tufts University’s Paige Hall, tries such as biomedical, manufacturing, indus- and discussed why it is no longer financially meeting, members of the greater Armenian and Crane Room, 12 Upper Campus Road, Medford. try and socioculture. Learn about efforts being wise for the UC to invest in Turkey given its Azeri communities were afforded the opportu- The moderator will be Berge Ayvazian. made both in the United States and Armenia, in recent descent into dictatorship. nity to address the committee. Portantino The distinguished panel of scientists will fea- terms of manufacturing and education. “I was very honored to have had the oppor- gracefully handled the comments from Azeri ture an expert from Armenia on 3D printing Admission is free and the public is invited. tunity to present on the importance of the UC Americans. Hrayr Azizbekyan, head of Parking is available after 5PM in all spaces. divestment from Turkey before the first hearing Portantino represents nearly 930,000 people engineering/researcher at Matter Wave Physics Refreshments will be provided after the pro- of the Select Committee. I believe that our tes- in the 25th Senate District, which includes Lab, Institute for Physical Research, National gram. For questions or more details, contact timony made a compelling case to the CIO from Altadena, Atwater Village, Bradbury, Burbank, Academy of Sciences, Yerevan, Armenia. Hrayr Alisa Stepanian at [email protected]. the University and I felt he was being very Claremont, Duarte, Glendale, Glendora, La has been invited to Cambridge by CYSCA specif- For more information about the OW program respectful of our student perspective, going so Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, La Verne, Los ically for this event. The five other panelists will contact Alisa Stepanian at [email protected] far as to invite us to formally present in the Feliz, Monrovia, Montrose, Pasadena, San Dimas, include local 3D experts: Jennifer Milne, or Jack Medzorian at [email protected] or future to the University Investment Committee San Marino, Shadow Hills, Sierra Madre, South Formlabs, Somerville; Adam Green, Einstein’s about CYSCA www.cambridgeyerevan.org. Directly. We are grateful to Senator Portantino Pasadena, Sunland-Tujunga, and Upland. 10 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS AMVETS POST 41 Reaches Out To Armenia’s Front-Line Troops

WATERTOWN — On January 28, on the Post 41 has played an active role in nation- Army Day holiday in Armenia, Watertown- al and international affairs, having produced based Cpl. Paul S. Marsoubian Post 41 a national AMVETS commander and a state AMVETS reached out to front-line soldiers commander over its 66-year history. The post celebrating the 26th Anniversary of the Army has a monthly luncheon meeting at the of the Republic of Armenia. The post donat- Armenian General Benevolent Union Center, ed a commemorative holiday meal to front- Watertown, during which dedicated members line soldiers in the trenches defending the greet each other, enjoy lunch and continue to hostile border of Armenia and Azerbaijan in support worthy causes. the Tavush region of Armenia. Besides meat Recently, Post 41 donated $10,000, split blessed by the clergy and cooked in a stew evenly between AMVETS District 5 and the called “Khashlama,” soldiers were given tea, AMVETS Department of Massachusetts with coffee, bread, chocolate, soda and cigarettes. the proviso that the hard-earned money of This project was conceived of and spearhead- these Post 41 veterans be used to help their ed by Jack Medzorian an AMVETS Post 41, past comrades in need. post commander, trustee and charter member Besides defending its borders, the and under the leadership of George Armenian Army plays an active role in The visiting delegation of National Assembly representatives with New York area clergy and Haroutunian, present commander and trustee International Affairs. Todd Jacobus, life mem- community leaders. of the post. This project was a huge success ber of AMVETS Post 2008 in Belmont, MA thanks to excellent coordination by Gohar recently retired as Deputy Commander of the Palyan, Yerevan-based Knights of Vartan repre- United Nations peace-keeping forces in the sentative, and Rev. Aram Mirzoyan, the Fund dangerous regions of Kosovo reports that he National Assembly Members Visit New York for Armenian Relief (FAR), as well as local vol- commanded the Armenian Army and others VISIT, from page 1 unteers commandeered by Mirzoyan. Based in who participated in peace-keeping in Kosovo. While revealing their concerns about emigration from Armenia and economic improvement, the front-line border town of Berd, Mirzoyan is He cites the tremendous care and concern by they expressed the hope that the new government will quickly find solutions to these issues. the spiritual leader of the area 4-5 hours north- the Armenian soldiers under his command. Barsamian called for cooperation and mutual confidence in an effort to fortify Armenia- east of Yerevan called Shamshadeen, comprised During his service, AMVETS Post 2008 diaspora relations and remarked that American Armenians were preparing to celebrate the of 16 front-line border villages where the troops donated scores of CARE packages to the fiftieth anniversary of St. Vartan Cathedral in New York. are entrenched. troops under difficult conditions which Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan voiced his wishes for their success. The visiting delegation included Arpine Hovhannisyan, one of the deputy speakers or vice presidents of the National Assembly and member of the Republican Party of Armenia, Armen Ashotyan, member of the same party and chairman of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Foreign Relations, Naira Zohrabyan, member of the Prosperous Armenia Party of Gagik Tsarukyan, Edmon Marukyan of the Yelk opposition alliance, and Aghvan Vardanyan of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation. Diplomats from the Armenian embassy in Washington and representatives of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation were pre- sent at the meeting. (Translated from the Armenian)

A popular veal stew called Khashlama being prepared for front-line troops defending the hostile bor- der of Armenia and Azerbaijan in NE Armenia’s Shamshadeen region (a group of 16 border vil- lages) of the Tavush Marz. Meal hosted by the Armenian-American Veterans of AMVETS Post 41, Watertown MA on January 28, Army Day holiday in Armenia.

Commander A. Kirakosyan of the Defense reached the Armenian and other troops Ministry of the Republic of Armenia was so under his command. impressed by this act of goodwill that he sent In addition, in another international an official Certificate of Gratitude praising sphere, Post 2008 AMVETS donated scores the AMVETS Post 41 for its generosity. of CARE packages and sports clothing to Armenia’s army has been under attack by troops under the command of Major Felix neighboring Azerbaijan in violation of a Gregorian, who served combat tours as an cease-fire agreement negotiated 24 years ago. AMVET of Post 2008 with no less than five In addition, Azerbaijan and Turkey, in defi- tours of duty in the Middle East before being ance of International Law, have both block- retired last year. aded Armenia. As a consequence, land-locked Gregory Arabian, Esq., retired US Army Armenia stands surrounded and cut off on Major, and former active member of Post 41, both ends, with limited access only to Iran was moved by this story. He is currently com- and Georgia for transit of vital goods. In spite mander of Post 2008 in Belmont and first of Armenia being a member of the United vice-commander of AMVETS district 5. He Nations, there seems to be little or no inter- has decided to recognize this goodwill pro- est and efforts to mediate a peace treaty and ject of Post 41 at the AMVETS National efforts to date by the OSCE have had no suc- Convention, stating, “God Bless AMVETS cess to date. Post 41 for their care, concern and generosi- Post 41 was founded in 1952 in Watertown ty in tough times like these. AMVETS is by American-Armenian veterans of World involved, is alive, and is a body of veterans War II and named in memory of a local hero helping veterans and others in need, whether Corporal Paul S. Marsoubian who died in in the national or international sphere. I will Germany in battle in WWII. Several veterans report it everywhere. I will also address this of AMVETS Post 41 have served in combat year’s AMVETS National Convention with with courage and some have been awarded this story of goodwill and sacrifice” the Purple Heart and cited for bravery. – Jack Medzorian

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 11 COMMUNITY NEWS St. Vartan Cathedral Concert Celebrates Armenian Music

CONCERT, from page 1 The culturally rich event, in partnership with the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, with the support of Nazar and Artemis Nazarian, also recognized the season when Armenia became a member state of the UN in March 1992, marking an opportunity for the Armenian Mission to invite the United Nations community to share in their nation’s musical talents and traditions. “Our primary targets were our international partners,” said Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, permanent representative of Armenia to the United Nations. “The whole idea of this concert was to combine all of the elements of our culture into one single com- monality, just as we are here in New York City.” The predominantly international crowd, cou- pled with the global backgrounds of the per- formers, who have trained in Armenia, Russia, England, Cyrus and the US and who play both Eastern and Western composers, was shared with the entire UN community in an effort to “participate and share in diversity.” He continued, “The incessant applause demonstrated how exciting it is to showcase Armenia’s rich cultural and musical heritage in one of the most beautiful churches located by the United Nations, which demonstrates the vibrancy of the Cathedral’s architecture, faith and culture.” Celebration of Spring concert at St. Vartan Cathedral The hour-long concert captured various tones and moods of classical music, ranging from Haydn’s lively piano trio to Hovnuts’ rarely-per- born violinist, who is professor of violin and and admiration. pany, under the artistic guidance of founder formed Duo Sonata for violin and cello to chamber music at the Royal Academy of Music “This concert gave me the opportunity to and director Vasken Brudian, was originally Babadjanian’s emotionally charged piano trio, in London, remarked on the “wonderful collaborate with two of the most prominent established at the Tumo Center for Creative culminating in an artistic and enriching perfor- acoustics” of the Cathedral, making it “an ideal Armenian musicians,” said New York-based Technologies in Armenia and has grown into a mance. venue to promote the music of Armenian com- pianist, composer and conductor Hakobyan, contemporary design company in the country. “It was a great honor and pleasure to be posers in front of a truly international audi- who is founder and artistic director of Pegasus: “Armenian artists and musicians are recog- invited by Ambassador Mnatsakanyan to per- ence.” form in St. Vartan Cathedral,” said Chilingirian, Each of the musicians was pleased to form who had played there previously with his a trio with their colleagues and fellow musi- Chilingirian Quartet 40 years ago. The Cyprus- cians, with whom they share mutual respect

The performers with Ambassador Mnatsakanyan after the show

The Orchestra. “The acoustics, beauty and spir- nized worldwide not only because they are itual richness of the Cathedral, combined with Armenian but also because their quality and tal- the warmth and enthusiasm of the audience, ent,” said Bagratuni. “This, I hope, was the mes- enhanced our performance.” sage behind the Celebration of Spring concert.” For the Yerevan-born Bagratuni, this was his first visit to St. Vartan Cathedral, which he described as a “unique experience.” “I can’t think of a better way to intro- duce Armenian music and musicians to the world community,” said Bagratuni, a professor of cello at Michigan State University and artistic director of the International Music Academy in Italy. “The international and Armenian com- munities have to realize Armenian musi- cians are capable of performing music of all composers, not only Armenian.” Hakobyan echoed Bagratuni’s thoughts, noting that events such as this concert “have the capacity to reach wider audiences by showcasing the music of Armenian composers alongside Western works.” Further highlighting the artistic abili- ties of the Armenian people was the art- work hanging on the walls by Ardean’s Levon Chilingirian (violin) and Suren Bagratuni (cello) designs. Inspired by Armenia’s architec- as they conclude Hovunt’s Duo Sonata for violin and ture, illuminated manuscripts and cross- cello stones, the Armenia-based design com- 12 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Armenian Entries Berklee Middle Part of Socially Eastern Festival Relevant Film Celebrates Music Festival From Around NEW YORK — SR Socially Relevant Film The World Festival 2018 (SRFF 2018) brings in its Fifth Season with 70 international and local films, BOSTON — Berklee College of Music industry workshops and panels, and other presented the 10th annual Berklee events dedicated to social issues and the film- Middle Eastern Festival as part of its makers that highlight them. SRFF 2018 will be Signature Series on Thursday, March 1. held from March 16 to 22, 2018 at Cinema Founded and directed by associate pro- Village and neighboring venues. fessor Christiane Karam, the festival This year’s lineup of the growing Socially brings together guest artists, communi- Relevant Film Festival has movies from 35 coun- ty musicians, Berklee students, visual tries. Among those are two important and inter- artists, and dancers from all over the esting Armenian films, a documentary, Vatsche Barsoumian led the Lark Orchestra, Lark Mastersingers, and musical artists world to celebrate the music of the “Armenians of the World” by the Lebanese Shoushik Barsoumian (Soprano), Garineh Avakian (Mezzo-soprano), Berj Karazian Middle East, the Balkans, the actress and filmmaker Carmen Labaki that (Tenor), and Abdiel Gonzalez (Baritone) Caucasus, and the Mediterranean. shows Armenians in Lebanon, Syria, Turkey This year, the festival featured a stel- and Armenian with some new footage reflecting lar lineup of guest performers. Last the recent upheavals, and a narrative feature year’s Middle Eastern Festival headlin- film, “Hot Country Cold Winter,” by David Lark Musical Society er, the innovative Armenian pianist and Sarafian, that deals with the important period composer Tigran Hamasyan, returned of transition from Soviet to Independent to the stage for another memorable per- Armenia. Celebrates AMAA Centennial formance. The concert included These two films will have their New York pre- Berklee assistant professor and mieres. Partner organizations in the film festival for With ‘Faith and Love’ these two films are the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research, St. Leon PASADENA, Calif. — The day after a gentle rain, sunshine in the crisp late after- Armenian Church and the Armenian General noon lit the scene perfectly as guests arrived for Lark Musical Society’s celebra- Benevolent Union Performing arts. tion concert, “Faith and Love” at Pasadena’s The rapidly-growing Festival, now in its fifth Ambassador Auditorium, on Sunday, March year, is a multi-faceted event that embodies the By Elise Kalfayan 4. The program featured Anton Bruckner’s cultural values of New York and the world. tripartite Te Deum, a popular thanksgiving SRFF 2018 showcases films across an array of hymn and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with platforms from emerging, international and the chorus Ode to Joy, a masterpiece expressing the human longing for brother- local filmmakers. There will be several spotlight hood and equality. programs, industry workshops, and panels on It was a joyful and inspiring celebration of the Armenian Missionary Association different regions and issues. Previous editions of of America’s (AMAA) 100-year legacy of mission and service. the festival have included a number of The AMAA was founded in 1918 in Worcester, Mass. by the Armenian Armenian films. A percentage of the box office Evangelicals to send aid overseas to survivors of the Armenian Genocide in the from the Armenian films will be donated to Near East. Its work has continued and expanded since then, now providing human- SOAR - Society of Orphaned Armenian Relief. itarian aid, education, youth programs, and support for churches and Christian “Armenians of the World” by Carmen outreach in 24 countries. AMAA Executive Director/CEO Zaven Khanjian hon- Labaki, Lebanon, Armenia, Syria, & Turkey, ored its founders and leaders in his program notes, citing Psalm 135:3 and writ- 2017 | 56 minutes, will be shown on Sunday, ing, “Pleasant is the memory of the early visionaries, successive leadership and March 18, at 6 p.m. generations of unsung heroes whose gospel-illuminated path and selfless sacrifice It is a documentary that relates the amazing led to miracles in the life of the nation.” story of a people that endured a lot of injustice AMAA board members joined directors and staff, supporters, Lark Musical Society members and supporters, local dignitaries, and a full-house audience at the magnificent concert with the express desire to celebrate the AMAA’s work in musi- cal tribute. Many of the guests came from local Armenian Evangelical churches, and have long-standing ties to the AMAA, and fervent appreciation for its mission. This was the final event of a busy weekend as the AMAA Board of Directors held meetings March 2-3 in the L.A. area, and five local churches hosted AMAA pre- sentations Sunday morning. Doris Melkonian, who holds a masters in musicology from UCLA, delivered a pre-concert lecture. Those arriving early learned that Bruckner named his work after an ancient hymn which begins “Thee, O God, we praise” and he based its text on the Apostles’ Creed. Beethoven’s 9th Symphony is considered one of the greatest works in the Western musical tradition. Melkonian pointed out that the 1st movement starts with “the void” of the book of Genesis; while the exuberant chorus of the 4th movement cel- Pianist Tigran Hamasyan ebrates joy, life, and God’s divine blessings. She concluded, “Tonight, as the con- templative music of Bruckner and Beethoven transport us upward, we join in this joyful chorus of praise and give thanks to God. We praise God for the miracles and acclaimed Ukrainian pianist and com- the transformational work that have taken place through the programs initiated and poser Vadim Neselovskyi ’04, who also sponsored by the Armenian Missionary Association of America.” performed with the Vadim Neselovskyi Doors to the hall opened soon afterward and almost every seat was filled as Trio. Concert Committee Chair Ken Kevorkian welcomed guests and dignitaries. Rev. Additional Middle Eastern Festival Dr. Ara Chakerian, minister to the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America performers included Palestinian singer blessed the concert with an invocation. and post-modern musician Amal Dr. Nazareth Darakjian, president of the AMAA Board of Directors, patron of the Markus, and acclaimed musical collec- Carmen Labaki, director of “Armenians of the Lark Musical Society, and a member of the Lark Mastersingers, stepped forward tive Women of the World, with princi- World” to provide a stirring reflection on the founding of the Armenian Republic and the ples representing India, Italy, Japan, founding of the AMAA in 1918, one century ago: Haiti and the United States. Rounding and suffering. The pride they take in their iden- “For 100 years the AMAA served Armenian communities in the Diaspora, and out the lineup was the Pletenitsa tity, their sense of belonging and integration is after the disastrous earthquake that hit Armenia in 1988, the AMAA extended its Balkan Choir, a primarily female chorus second to none. Shot in Turkey, Syria, Armenia activities to the Motherland also. Today, as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of that encourages cultural exchange and Lebanon the film took a whole year of the formation of the AMAA, we are also celebrating the 100th anniversary of the through choral and folk musical adap- research to be completed. This is a recent edit rebirth of the Armenian nation, the rebirth of hope for a people who walked in tations, and Berklee World Strings, with updated information. In Turkey: Scenes of the valley of the shadow of death, came face to face with the possibility of total which showcased the talents of Berklee desolation, ruins, and silence. In Syria: Tears annihilation, but survived.” musicians from Jordan, Spain, Ecuador, and testimonies. In Armenia: Resistance, strong see CENTENNIAL, page 13 Turkey, China, Canada, and the United will, and a dream. In Lebanon: An entire destiny States, among other countries. see FILMS, page 13 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Armenian Entries Part of Socially Relevant Film Festival

FILMS, from page 12 beginning in ancient times and everlasting through history. Today, the Turkish government is busy destroying whatever belongs to the Armenians: bridges, houses, churches…If you go to Turkey, you won’t find the same images that were filmed some years ago. (Trailer: http://www.dailymotion.com/ video/x6e6u4n) “Hot Country, Cold Winter” by David Safarian, Armenia, The Netherlands, Germany, 2016 | 104 minutes, will be screened on Sunday, March 18, at 7:30 pm. In Armenian and Russian with English subti- A scene from “Hot Country Cold Winter” by David Sarafian tles, it is the tale of a man and a woman suffer- ing near-absurd circumstances during a total energy crisis right after the break down of the Festival, Best Actor Award Sulmona Film our fifth annual edition. Our dedication is Soviet Union. Their narratives, recollections, Festival and Golden Apricot Award for Best first and foremost to the filmmaker whose imagination, and dreams are depicted in this Short Film Golden Apricot Yerevan work will otherwise not be seen on major powerful narrative feature film dealing with a International Film Festival. screens. We advocate those filmmakers who period of modern history, not so far away from The film will be shown on Wednesday, choose to tell socially relevant stories instead our times. March 21, at 3:30 p.m. in the “Ageing of resorting to violence and commercial It received awards for Best Actress and Best Gracefully” collection of films. choices.” Art Director National Film Academy of Among the other 67 officially selected The festival is proud to be supported by Armenia, 2016, Best Narrative Feature Film films to be screened in the heart of the Left Tilt Fund, The Lower Manhattan Director Award 19th ARPA International Film Greenwich Village, are a diverse mix of four Cultural Council, Fairways Law Firm - Paris, Festival 2016 Los Angeles, US, Best Screenplay narrative features, 12 documentaries, 40 The Puffin Foundation, in addition to spon- Award and Special Mention of Jury 13th shorts, 10 VR/360º films and more. There is sorships from the German Consulate General Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film also a script-writing contest and readings of of New York, The Dutch Consulate General, Festival, and Effulgent Angel Prize 13th excerpts from finalist scripts. The films rep- and Armenian organizations such as NAASR, Effulgent Angel International Film Festival, resent 35 countries. Visit www.ratedsr- St. Leon Armenian Church, AGBU 2016 Moscow, Russia. films.org for schedules, film synopses, and Performing Arts, AIWA NJ and Armenian Visit = http://www.dailymotion.com/video/ filmmaker bios. Network of America. Industry partners and x6dbdg0 for a trailer. The festival closes on the evening of sponsors include Cinema Libre Studio, March 22 with a glittering Awards Candy Factory, InkTip, Final Draft, ‘Head Above Water’ Ceremony and screening of the winning Resolution rentals and more. Award trophies Another film that will make its New York films at Cinema Village, and party for the are by Michael Aram and Anet Abnous. premier is “Head Above Water” by Eric filmmakers at Doux Supperclub featuring Hospitality partners are Villanelle Shahinian, US, 2017. A devoted husband is appearances from International and NYC Restaurant, Doux Supperclub, and La forced to confront his doubts about remain- filmmakers, as well as industry guests and Colombe Coffee. ing the caretaker of his wife suffering from veterans. For more information about SRFF 2018 Alzheimer’s disease. It won the Gold Remi Eric Shahinian, director of “Head Above Water” Festival Founder and Artistic Director events and sponsors, as well as past festival Award Worldfest-Houston International Film Nora Armani says “We are proud to reach editions, visit www.ratedsrfilms.org.

Lark Musical Society Celebrates AMAA Centennial with ‘Faith and Love’

CENTENNIAL, from page 12 Chamber Series, and other successful musical Conductor Vatsche Barsoumian led the Lark and artistic endeavors. The first of many collab- Orchestra, Lark Mastersingers, and musical orations with the Lark Musical Society and the artists Shoushik Barsoumian (Soprano), AMAA initiated in 1996 when the Lark Choir Garineh Avakian (Mezzo-soprano), Berj was invited to Paris, France to perform during Karazian (Tenor), and Abdiel Gonzalez the 150th Anniversary Celebration of the found- (Baritone) in a tremendous and moving musical ing of the Armenian Evangelical Church. program that exceeded even the high expecta- In his concert notes, Barsoumian wrote that tions set by the evening’s speakers. Lark has a focus on the cultural work of the The Lark Musical Society, formed and sup- Armenian people, but drew in this concert from ported by true artists, routinely excels in its the full canon of Western music. “This seems a beautifully curated and produced programs, fitting emulation of the truly global scale of the and this was no exception. The performance AMAA’s mission, with its charitable efforts ren- was a wonderful achievement as well a fitting dered worldwide to communities in need, even centennial tribute to the AMAA. Multiple ova- as it maintains a focus on enriching the lives,

Doris Melkonian delivers a pre-concert lecture.

tions that followed the finale were well- both spiritual and physical, of Armenians wher- deserved by all the outstanding artists and ever it can.” He concluded, “The spirit of these musicians who played in this program. masterpieces is the spirit behind the good Barsoumian founded the Lark Musical works of the Armenian Missionary Association Society, which includes a conservatory, musical of America. Long may they continue to serve. education program for children, the Dilijan Long may they spread their Faith and Love.” 14 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING

funny thing about us. We constantly harp on the differ- she would point things out I didn’t see because that’s ences, [whether we are Barskahye or Beirutzi or her métier; she knows the possibilities if she alters or The Hayasdantzi] but in the end you realize that what is dyes something. The way she perceives things are differ- funny is the fact that we are seriously the same. The dif- ent than what I perceive, just like how she won’t see the ferences are so superficial. And the ironic thing is that comical situations that I do. we think we are different. Probably psychologically we TB: What is your process like not only to write mono- Irreverent do that to create some kind of distinction. Humans are logues but also for your paintings and playwriting? Do like that. Person comes from the Latin word Persona, you tackle each medium depending on your inspiration which means mask in theater. So we all wear masks and of each project? communities and groups are like that too. We want to VB: Most of the time, I work on a few different things wear a mask that differentiates us from others in order at the same time. When I’m in Los Angeles, if you look Genius of to make us feel special. at my schedule you’ll see studio, writing, performance, TB: Your parents’ home in Beirut encouraged the but there comes a point where it is almost time for the arts, theatre and literature. What are your earliest mem- baby to come out then I don’t do anything else but that ories of artistic influences in your home? certain thing. That’s the moment I know the water has Vahe VB: I have to say that our house was always packed broken and the baby is coming out so I have to leave with books, paintings and drawings. Both my parents everything else aside. It’s impossible for me to do any- were avid readers and books were everywhere. I used to thing but this. play hooky from school in order to read. My father was TB: Do you have a certain level of discipline you Berberian a draftsman and my mother loved painting so I was adhere to? always surrounded by art. VB: Absolutely. This whole idea of the bohemian TB: Was it encouraged by your family to pursue the artist is bullshit. Because nothing will get done if you By Taleen Babayan arts? don’t have discipline. Especially with someone like me, Special to the Mirror Spectator VB: Definitely. We weren’t well off but my mom who is surrounded by people all the time. When I paint, bought me my first guitar. As I said the books were my studio is full of people, my friends, my theater com- NEW YORK — It is a challenge to describe Vahe always there. I had a godfather who was a fascinating pany. We drink, we smoke, we have fun. Berberian in one word: playwright, comedian, writer, man and he used to get me paints and brushes, so from TB: It’s interesting you have chosen to write and per- painter, actor and director have all been used to depict a very young age the arts were in my life. The only thing form in Armenian, even though you could easily do so this creative spirit, who has carved a niche in contem- that my father kept saying was you keep doing many in English. Is there a specific reason? porary Armenian theater and art. His scope, however, things at the same time, you have to choose one or the VB: Oh yeah. I find performing in Armenian orgasmic. stretches much further. other, but I could never do it. I think what it comes The language turns me on. I love it because when speaks Berberian embraced his passion for the written word to me in Armenian, I feel like they and the blank canvas from a young age in 1950s Beirut know my secrets. As Armenians, we and further sharpened his craft in Los Angeles over the have a sense of family no matter where last three decades, where he continues to create art on we are because being of the same eth- his own terms. Whether it is his plays, monologues, nicity and speaking the same language films, or paintings, his astute observations take center removes barriers. stage, as does his love for the Armenian language. TB: Did you ever see yourself here? Entertaining with ease and smarts, Berberian is cur- Did you have set goals as an artist or rently on tour with his sixth monologue, “Ooremn,” did you remain open to the opportuni- which he recently performed to great fanfare for the ties you created or that came your Greater New York Armenian community. (See related way? story on Page 1.) VB: That’s a very good question. He gave an exclusive interview over breakfast at Café Where I am now, I honestly cannot Angelique in Tenafly, NJ, about his latest show, his artis- remember where I thought I would be. tic process and why the arts are more important than I always knew I would write or paint ever. His eyes are ever observing — of the bright hue of but because I grew up in a fatalistic red hair, of the artwork in the railroad station turned culture in my mind, success was never café — but above all, of the mind, heart and soul of the an easy thing. So when I thought of a Armenian. successful painter I always thought of someone who struggles all his life and Taleen Babayan: Your monologues are humorous, then he dies and his paintings are sold culturally relevant and always receive joyous laughs. for astronomical figures. I really could- Aside from the entertainment aspect, what do you want n’t perceive the idea that it’s possible audiences to take away from performances? to be a successful living artist until I Vahe Berberian: First and foremost the entertain- started selling and I thought some- ment is very important. Second I want to make them thing’s wrong here because it doesn’t think. I believe that it is possible to be intelligent and work with my concept of the tortured entertaining at the same time. artist. Sometimes you ask yourself, am TB: How does it feel to share your work with audi- I a fake? Because that’s not how we ences? Is it more fulfilling to write or to perform and see were brought up. Hagop Baronian the audience reaction? died a poor man. Van Gogh committed VB: Of course it all depends on the medium. For suicide. Every single artist I loved and example, if I’m writing a novel, I really love being on my revered, all of them died poor. own and writing at a café. But when you write plays and TB: But you didn’t waver. You knew monologues, it all comes to life only while performing what it was you wanted to do and you because you can never really assess the work until it is forged your own path. performed. Sometimes while I’m writing I think maybe VB: One of the most profound this isn’t funny at all and then I do it in front of an audi- quotes I have read is by Oscar Wilde ence and they roar and then I realize it’s good. When when he said “I put all my genius into you have an audience, it takes on another dimension. my life. I put only my talent into my TB: Do you first practice your material in front of peo- down to is that every art is a form of entertainment. work,” meaning that the most important creation is ple you trust? Every art. You’re telling a story. There has to be some myself. The rest is nothing compared to yourself, that VB: Very informally. I never tell them because it’s dif- kind of narrative in whatever you do. I remember when self you have created. ficult when people sit in front of you in a judgmental I was maybe 6 years old I would write a story and then TB: I read you said once, “fall in love with the project…fall state because their acceptance is completely different. on the other page I would draw and sketch in case you in love with the person. Don’t be afraid of pain...it makes you No matter how good something is, when you’re asking didn’t understand my story. feel alive.” Have emotions always been the driving force someone to judge, the mental state is a completely dif- TB: You mentioned working on a novel, what is it behind your creativity and artistry? ferent one than someone who is there to enjoy. But about? VB: Absolutely. I have always used this following anal- when I do informally practice the material, I don’t tell VB: This is a very new experience for me because ogy. Life is a cocktail party. You eat, you drink, you con- them. If I have something new and I’m surrounded by although I’ve worked on novels before, this is a period sume to the point where you become sick. The moment friends, I try it out on them and I can tell from the reac- piece and more than half of it happens in 1877 so I had of throwing up is the moment of your creation where it’s tion how good or bad it is. Funnily enough, some of my to do a lot of research both about the period and impossible to keep anything inside you anymore. You very close friends can tell if I’m trying my material out Romania, where it takes place. know you’re going to get very sick if you don’t throw up. on them or not. They’ll tell me if it’s funny or inappro- TB: I read about your family’s tragic experiences dur- So the artist throws up on the canvas. The writer on the priate. ing the Armenian Genocide. Do you feel that somehow paper. The actor on the stage. It’s emptying everything TB: Do you sometimes feel like you want to push the your comedy is rooted in this inherent despair? inside you to the point where you’re cleansed, you’re envelope further but have to keep an eye on the mate- VB: Look, I’m not a very happy person. I’m a pes- cathartic then you have to drink again in order to create rial because of the more conservative Armenian audi- simist in general and I think the reason I do comedy is again. ence? that I feel the need to do comedy. It’s funny because peo- TB: What advice do you have for the next generations VB: You know I do. As much as I want to say I don’t. ple ask me in interviews how I find these topics [in my of Armenians who want to embrace and pursue the arts But when I’m performing in front of my own audience monologues and writing] or when I was a kid I would but are reluctant to do so since it’s not the most practi- in Los Angeles, that’s my hardcore audience. They are tell stories that happened to me and people would ask cal vocation? there only for me and I can really push the envelope how does this only happen to you? Because you have VB: Right now what we need is culture. There are much further than any other community. chosen to do this, your eyes see situations and some- enough people out there who are feeding our stomachs TB: Do you enjoy meeting Armenians from all around times it’s not really comical but you see the possibilities and our pockets. I think we really need people who will the world? What is a commonality or difference you find for comedy. For example, my wife early on started as a nourish us and our brains and feed us culturally. within the various communities? costume designer for theater and we would walk into a Otherwise no matter how affluent you are, when you VB: The commonalities are always there. This is the used clothing store and I would say there’s nothing. But have no identity, who cares? Who cares? S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 ARTS & LIVING

Narine Tukhikyan-Khachaturyan Lecture at Fresno Museum

FRESNO — Narine Toukhikyan- Tumanian is considered one of the fore- Armenian and international journals and Khachaturyan, director of the Hovhaness most writers of the Armenian literature. newspapers. Several books are edited by Tumanian Museum of Yerevan, Armenia will Through his writings he was able to immor- her. Since 2007 she is managing the be the guest speaker at the Armenian talize some of the most ethnographic cus- Toumanian Museum. Since 2011 member Museum of Fresno on Monday, March 26, toms and traditions of the Armenian culture. of ICOM. In 2013 she was one of the 5 win- starting at 7 p.m. As the 9th, and the youngest child of a village ners of ICOM- CECA ‘best practice’’ Tukhikyan-Khachaturyan, was the curator priest, he grew up in a one-room-house in the awards. The museum educational project of Eclipse Exhibit in Armenia. Being under highlands of Lori region of Armenia. During that won the world competition was called pressure from the old guard, the exhibition and following the Genocide he and his family “Three apples fell from heaven.” was shut down in fall 2017 after being on dis- were very active in providing shelter to the This is the first museum in Armenia that play for only three weeks. refugees and orphans. He associated closely invested new technologies in its activity. She will provide new findings about the with our national heroes, such as General After this event, on Wednesday, April 4, at renowned author, nicknamed “The Poet of Antranik Ouzanyan in their struggle for inde- 6 p.m. the museum will host a talk by William All Armenians,” Hovhaness Tumanian, and pendence in 1918. C. Rempel, about his new book, The Gambler: reflect on his four sons; one of them was Toukhikyan-Khacahturyan was born in How Penniless Dropout Kirk Became The killed in Van, and the other three were exiled Yerevan. She is a graduate of the Greatest Deal Maker in Capitalist History. and murdered during Stalin’s Purge. Philological faculty of the Yerevan State Rempel is a veteran investigative reporter A revised addition of Eclipse, with its University. She has worked in TV produc- and editor with 36 experience at the Los impact on diaspora and the Armenian tions and is the author of different TV pro- Angeles Times. Church will be on display in Armenian and jects. Her hobby is translations. She is the For more information, visit Narine Tukhikyan-Khachaturyan English languages. author of many articles published in www.armof.org Good, Not-So-Clean Fun With Vahe Berberian

COMEDY, from page 1 Saganda who attended the performance with Conveying his astute ability to grasp obser- his family. “It’s a wonderful time and perfect to vations of even the simplest everyday circum- watch with your parents as well.” stances and situations, Berberian analyzed The Beirut-born Berberian, a Los Angeles res- human relationships and interactions through ident for the past three decades, has pursued the lens of comedy, relating to both Armenians the arts through various channels, including and the world at large. (See interview with writing, painting, acting and directing, among Berberian on page 14.) many other modes of creativity. His earlier pop- Hilda Hartounian, chair of the TCA, wel- ular monologues, aptly named, “ Yevaylen,” comed guests and gave an update on upcoming “Nayev,” “Dagaveen,” “Sagayn” and “Yete,” TCA-related events and activities, before intro- each probe into man’s existence, all the while ducing Berberian to the stage. entertaining his international audience. “Vahe, who has many talents, is someone “It was honor to host a multi-talented artist very familiar to all of us,” said Hartounian. “We as renowned as Vahe Berberian,” said are so happy he is here among us today to per- Hartounian after the show. “It’s always a privi- form his latest monologue.” lege to organize events such as this that make Berberian debuted “Ooremn,” his sixth mono- Guests enjoying the Vahe Berberian show us proud to be Armenian.” logue, last September in Glendale. He is current- Photos by Anahid Kaprelian ly on tour with his show, delighting audiences across the country and overseas. Fresh off per- “I appreciate Vahe Berberian’s good humor formances in Lebanon and Canada, Berberian and his jokes,” said guest Jirair Khorozian. “His will continue to present his show to Armenian comedy is hilarious and daring.” communities around the globe. “I enjoyed a lot of laughs,” said Andrew Recipe Corner by Christine Vartanian Datian

Roasted Cauliflower, Lemon and Onions INGREDIENTS 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets or wedges (about 8 cups) 2 large lemons, thinly sliced 1 medium red onion, diced or sliced 1/4 cup olive oil or grape seed oil or 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter 4-5 garlic cloves, chopped 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt Some members of the TCA Executive Board with Vahe Berberian at the Clinton Inn, from left, Harout 1/4 teaspoon each white or black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (to Chatmajian, Marie Zokian, Vahe Berberian, Hilda Hartounian, Hagop Vartivarian and Barkev Kalayjian. taste) 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs or Panko bread crumbs (optional) Chopped fresh parsley and thyme leaves Crumbled feta cheese, blue cheese or grated Parmesan cheese

PREPARATION: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Toss cauliflower, lemons and onions with the oil, garlic, lemon rind, lemon juice, and spices in a large bowl. Place on a greased baking sheet lined with foil and roast until golden, about 25 to 28 minutes, tossing, or until tender when pierced with a knife. Add the bread crumbs, toss, drizzle with olive oil, and roast 3-5 minutes longer, if desired. Remove from oven. Transfer to a bowl or platter, top with fresh chopped parsley and thyme, and Taleen sprinkle with cheese. Serve with Italian vinaigrette dressing or yogurt on the side. Setrakian, Serves 4-6. Anoush Gulian, Zarig *Christine's recipes have been published in the Fresno Bee newspaper, Sunset Baghdadlian magazine, Cooking Light magazine, and at http://www.thearmeniankitchen.com/ and Jirair Khorozian 16 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

Boston, Sunday, 7 am Rain Date: Sunday, April 15 Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea Imports MASSACHUSETTSCALIFORNIA APRIL 10 — Armenian Business Network (ABN) Winter and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the Labyrinth. For first-time Business Networking event. Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. The walkers introduction to walking a labyrinth at 5:30 p.m. MARCH 16-17 — Conference, “Celebration of 400 Years Sheraton Commander, Cambridge. Stephen Demirjian, RSVP appreciated. [email protected] of Armenian-American Heritage, 1618-2018,” at the guest speaker from the Achieve Institute shares methods JUNE 28 — Under a Strawberry Moon, Armenian Ararat-Eskijian Museum, Mission Hills. Co-sponsored by on creating greater personal and work life success. This Heritage Park on The Greenway, Boston, Thursday, the Ararat-Eskijian Museum (AEM), the National event is free of charge. RSVP: armenianbusinessnet- 8:30– 9:30 p.m. Meet & Greet! Moonlit Labyrinth Walk. Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), [email protected] Enjoy chocolate-dipped strawberries, hosted by Vicki Project SAVE Armenian Photograph Archives, the APRIL 11 — A recap on the status of the documentary Lee’s and Ice Teas, hosted by MEM Tea Imports. RSVP Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute (AGMI) in project “Neighbors in Memory,” accompanied by a appreciated. [email protected] Yerevan, Armenia, and the California State University panel of community members shedding light on the state JULY 18 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage Park Northridge Armenian Studies Program. of Armenian-Turkish relations as they live and witness it. on The Greenway, Boston. Wednesday, 5- 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 7 p.m., Capitol Theatre, 204 Mass. Ave., Meet & Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea MASSACHUSETTSFLORIDA Arlington. Screenings, discussions and refreshments. For Imports and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the Labyrinth. For more information: [email protected] first-time walkers introduction to walking a labyrinth at APRIL 8 — St. David Armenian Church of Boca Raton APRIL 14 — Saturday, St. James Great Gatsby Gala! A 5:30 p.m. RSVP appreciated. will celebrate the 30th Anniversary of its Consecration Roarin’ 20s Celebration! Live Jazz & Armenian Music, [email protected] on Sunday, with a Celebratory Banquet in the Church Passed Hors D’oeuvres, Mezza and Dessert Stations and AUGUST 15 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage Mardigian Hall at 1 p.m., presided by Archbishop Khajag more. St. James Armenian Church – 465 Mt. Auburn Park on The Greenway, Boston, Wednesday, 5-6:30 Barsamian. All are invited to this special occasion. Street, Watertown, 8 p.m., Tickets $100. Purchase online p.m. Meet & Greet! Enjoy Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Donations for adults $45, children under 14, $10 at www.stjameswatertown.org or Tea Imports and The Bostonian Hotel. Walk the Contact the church office 561 994-2335, or Sonig contact [email protected]. Labyrinth. For first-time walkers introduction to walking a Kradjian 607 727-8786 and Emma Pilikyan 561 414- APRIL 20-21 — Commemorating the 103rd anniversary labyrinth at 5:30 p.m. RSVP appreciated. 1182. of the Armenian Genocide, first at the State House, [email protected] JANUARY 20-27, 2019 — Armenian Heritage Cruise on Friday, April 20, 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., Boston. A free SEPTEMBER 16 — Sunday Afternoon at the Park for XXII Western Carribean Cruise aboard Royal reception will follow. Then on Saturday, April 21, a Families & Friends. Armenian Heritage Park on The Carribean’s Allure of the Seas. Traveling to Commemoration at the Park, 3 to 5 p.m. Further details Greenway. 2-4 p.m. Enjoy Boston Hye Guys Ensemble Nassau/Cozumel/Roatan/Costa Maya. Cabin rates start- will follow. For more information, visit with Ron Sahatjian, clarinet; Joe Kouyoumjian, oud; Art ing from $949 per person based on double occupancy, [email protected]. Chingris, percussion. RSVP appreciated. including port charges and ACAA registration fee. APRIL 21 – Annual Procession and Raising of the Armenian [email protected] Govermment taxes of $137.45 are additional. Armenian Flag at Lowell City Hall in commemoration of the 103rd entertainment, cultural presentations, festival day, tavlou anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Procession to be MICHIGAN and belote tournaments and much more. Call Travel led by the Lowell Armenian-American Veterans Honor Group International 561-447-0750 or 866-447-0750 ext. Guard. Participants should meet at the corner of MARCH 22 — Talk by Adrienne Alexanian on her 108. Contact person Jaine. Merrimack and John Sts. in Lowell at 9:30 a.m. father’s memoir, Forced into Genocide: Memoir of an Sponsored by the Armenian National Committee, Armenian Soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Army. Merrimack Valley (ANCMV) with the participation of all Thursday, 7 p.m., Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman ILLINOIS area Armenian Churches and Organizations. Family Campus, 28123 Orchard Lake Road Farmington MAY 5 — Saturday, Kentucky Derby Watch Party, Fun Hills, MI 48334. The book presents a unique account of APRIL 15 — Book presentation by Adrienne Alexanian and festivities to support Armenia Tree Project, At the ele- the Armenian genocide and was translated from the (editor) on her father’s memoir Forced into gant/historic Gore Place in Waltham. Details to follow. Armenian and edited by Adrienne Alexanian. RSVP by Genocide: Memoirs of an Armenian Soldier in the MAY 5 — Save the date! Annual Meeting, Armenian March 20. 248-553-2400x112 or rsvp@holocaustcen- Ottoman Turkish Army, Sunday, 3 p.m. sharp. The Illinois International Women’s Association (AIWA). Details ter.org. Free with admission or membership. Book sign- Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods to follow. Contact: [email protected] or 617- ing during reception. Drive Skokie, Il. 60077—-RSVP (847) 967-4800. There are 926-0171. no other books in literature on this aspect of the May 5 — Celebrate Public Art during Artweek on NEW JERSEY Genocide. The book also contains rare documents and Saturday at the Park, Armenian Heritage Park on pictures which will be shown during a power point pre- The Greenway, Boston, 1 p.m., World Labyrinth Day: SEPTEMBER 30 — Save the date! Armenia Fund USA sentation. Book signing during reception. Walk As One in peace & harmony with people in cities and Ardzagang Armenian TV are proud to present and towns worldwide including the labyrinth in Gyumri. Artash Asatryan and Band, guest singer Grisha Asatryan, MASSACHUSETTS At 12:45 p.m., introduction to Walking a Labyrinth, 1:30 from Armenia! The concert is dedicated to the Armenia’s pm - Reception to View the 2018 Configuration of the and Artsakh’s Independence Celebration. Don’t miss the MARCH 18 — Book Presentation by Adrienne G. Abstract Sculpture. Remarks: Sarah Baker, editor-in-chief, performance by the son and grandson of the legendary Alexanian, Forced into Genocide, Memoirs of an Art New England magazine. Introduced by Lucas Cowan, Armenian singer Aram Asatryan. Proceeds will benefit Armenian Soldier in the Ottoman Turkish Army, Public Art Curator, Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy. Fruitful Artsakh Project. 4 p.m. Location: Bergen PAC, 30 Sunday, 12:30 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Tea & Desserts, hosted by MEM Tea Imports & Eastern N Van Brunt St, Englewood. Hall, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, Lamejun Bakers. RSVP appreciated. 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. This book is a riveting mem- [email protected] oir of Yervant Edward Alexanian, an eye-witness to the MAY 6 — “Celebrating 400 Hundred Years of Armenian NEW YORK massacre and dislocation of his family and countrymen in American Heritage: 1618-2018” Exhibition and the Ottoman Turkey during WW I, while he served as a con- launching of Armenian Legacy in America: A 400- MARCH 18 — 6 p.m.: Armenian film screenings in script in the Turkish Army. Reception and Book Signing to Year Heritage by Dr. Hayk Demoyan in an illustrated Socially Relevant Film Festival, “Armenians of the follow Presentation. All are welcome! Log onto talk. Other speakers include Robert Mirak, Barbara J. World” (Director: Carmen Labaki) and Hot Country, Cold http://www.htaac.org/calendar/event/527/ for further Merguerian and Nubar Afeyan. Sunday, 3 p.m. Winter (Director: David Safarian). At Cinéma Village 22 E information. Admission free and open to the public. Book sale and 12th St, NY, NY. Co-sponsored by AGBU Performing Arts, MARCH 22 — 7:30 p.m.: Siobhan Nash-Marshall, “The reception to follow. Organized by Armenian Cultural NAASR, St. Leon Armenian Church, and SOAR. For more Sins of the Fathers: Turkish Denialism and the Foundation, co-sponsored by the Amaras Art Alliance, information visit www.ratedsrfilms.org. Armenian Genocide,” Thursday, at the NAASR and National Association for Armenian Studies and MARCH 28 — Taner Akçam, “Killing Orders: Talat Center, 395 Concord Ave., Belmont. The program is open Research, 441 Mystic Street (Route 3), Arlington. Tel. Pasha’s Telegrams and the Armenian Genocide,” at to the public. Contact: [email protected] or 617-489-1610. (781)-646-3090 [email protected] Columbia University. 6:00 p.m. Co-sponsored by the MARCH 23 — Sayat Nova Dance Company of Boston MAY 11 — Welcome His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Columbia Armenian Center and NAASR. (Venue TBA.) (SNDC) is honored to share the stage with world Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, to Further details to follow. renowned and beloved singer from Armenia Celebrate with Rev. Father Mampre A. Kouzouian on the Sirusho, appearing live for the first time in Boston, at the 60th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood. APRIL 21 - MAY 13 — Off-Broadway production by Pan prestigious Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass. Ave., Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater Boston, 145 Asian Repertory Theatre of Joyce Van Dyke’s play, Boston. Start time: 8 pm. Tickets may be purchased Brattle Street, Cambridge. Hrashapar Service in the DAYBREAK: the lyrical story of two Armenian women online at www.berklee.edu/events/Sirusho or by calling Sanctuary followed by a Celebration in the Charles and friends, survivors from 1915, who are transported with 617-747-2261. To avoid online fees, you may also pur- Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall. Details forthcoming. their families into the 21st century future. Performances chase your tickets in person at the Berklee Box Office, 10 MAY 19 — Hai Guin Scholarship Association Annual at the Beckett Theatre (on Theatre Row), 410 W. 42nd am – 6pm. For more info or questions, email sirusho- Luncheon & Fashion Show, Saturday, 11:30 a.m., at St., New York, Tuesdays through Sundays; weekend mati- [email protected] . You may also follow us on Facebook Montvale Plaza, Stoneham. Fashions by Soft nees. Discount tickets for seniors, students and groups. at www.facebook.com/events/162986714315959/ Surroundings of Chestnut Hill, MA. Tickets: $60 per per- For tickets and information: www.telecharge.com or call Reserve your tickets for this memorable cultural evening son. Please call Lisa at 781-729-6333; Becky at 508-651- (212) 239-6200. For discount tickets: www.telecharge- of Armenian song and dance. 8893;or Marilyn at 978-818-9098 for tickets. offers.com or call (212) 947-8844. Or contact the the- APRIL 8 — Annual Reconfiguration of the Abstract JUNE 6 — Tea & Tranquility, Armenian Heritage Park on atre: [email protected], (212) 868-4030. Sculpture, Armenian Heritage Park on The Greenway, The Greenway, Boston, Wednesday, 5-6:30 p.m. Meet & S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 17 COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY Mirror Is a Political Storm Gathering over Armenia?

ations will be conducted. Pundits are wondering if this is a war By Edmond Y. Azadian strategy or whether Baku has finally realized that there may not Spectator be a military solution to this thorny issue. Armenia’s Maj. Gen. Asdvadzadour Petrosyan is wondering As Armenia’s Parliament continues to strip the newly-created what is behind Azerbaijan’s war games. “Under the guise of war office of the president of any and all meaningful powers and as games, a concentration of forces may take place. The second state the media and the opposition forces continue to debate when is the formation of those forces in preparation of an eventual war. EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 Armen Sarkissian gave up his British citizenship, one is remind- We should leave no stone unturned and be ready,” he said. ed of the fall of Constantinople in 1453 to the Ottoman forces On the heels of Aliyev’s war rhetoric and actual military An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication of Turkish Sultan Mohamed II. According to legend, the capital buildup, an announcement from Moscow renders the situation fell while the Byzantine Court was debating a very crucial topic: more alarming. Indeed, Russian Colonel-General Anatoly how many angels could stand on the point of a pin. Sidorov, who is the chief of the allied Staff of the Collective While the story might serve as a very effective metaphor, it Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), made a stern announce- EDITOR sounds as if it is an apocryphal one, because that analogy is ment to Tert.am, that Nagorno Karabakh or Artsakh is not a Alin K. Gregorian more relevant to 17th-century theology and also, because member state of CSTO; hence that body does not have the Byzantine Emperor Constantine and his courtiers were in a authority to offer any aid to that country in case of renewed mil- ASSISTANT EDITOR struggle to save their lives, as the Turks had given enough warn- itary operations. Aram Arkun ings by bombarding the city for a long time. To this day, there Why was this announcement made at this particular moment? ART DIRECTOR is scant evidence about the fate of the emperor; some believe he Is it a coincidence or does it indicate a confluence of factors Marc Mgrditchian was killed during fighting while other witnesses vouch for his towards the development of a dangerous situation down the suicide. road?

SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Edmond Y. Azadian

CONTRIBUTORS: Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun Arzoumanian, Philippe Raffi Kalfayan, Diana Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian

CORRESPONDENTS: Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Boston - Nancy Kalajian New York/New Jersey - Taleen Babayan Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach

Contributing Photographers: Jirair Hovsepian

The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published weekly, except two weeks in July and the first week of the year, by: Baikar Association, Inc. 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Telephone: 617-924-4420 FAX: 617-924-2887 www.mirrorspectator.com E-Mail: [email protected] For advertising: [email protected]

Continuing with the deviation from our own topic, it is inter- As Armenia leans towards Europe to the chagrin of Moscow, esting to remember how the Ottoman army succeeded in break- this may serve as a message to Yerevan. ing the defenses of the city. A Hungarian engineer called Urban Turkey has the leverage to carry its balancing act between the SUBSCRIPTION RATES : or Orban, perhaps one of the ancestors of Hungary’s current two antagonistic camps but Armenia has limited choices to emu- Prime Minister Victor Orban, who delivered Azeri murderer late that policy. Ramil Safarov into the loving arms of Azeri President Ilham The general also made some remarks regarding Russia’s arms U.S.A. $80 a year Aliyev to a hero’s welcome in Baku, had designed a new and sales to Azerbaijan, bordering on cynicism. Addressing the issue Canada $125 a year powerful cannon and had offered it to the Byzantine ruler, who of Russian-Azerbaijan arms trade, Sidorov said that he is confi- refused to buy it because of a lack of funding. Engineer Orban dent that Azerbaijan will purchase weaponry from another state Other Countries $190 a year then sold his invention to the Ottoman army, where it played a should Russia suspend sales. That being true, whether Moscow fateful part in its victory. sells arms to Azerbaijan or not is a policy statement. And that Returning to our metaphor, while Armenia is furtively policy is very clear for everyone to see. © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator engaged in minutiae, the world around it is becoming more omi- President Serzh Sargsyan declared the Protocols drawn up Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA nous. A rapid succession of events does not favor the country at between Armenia and Turkey in 2009 null and void. It is a sig- and additional mailing offices. the moment. nificant question whether that move was coordinated with The Russian-Turkish rapprochement is at Armenia’s expense Moscow or not in light of Russian-Turkish cooperation in the ISSN 0004-234X inter alia. It has global ramifications. Turkey, as a major power, region on many critical issues. The answer can cut both ways. If can play a balancing act. Its membership in NATO is a valuable it was coordinated, then Moscow would have one extra political POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The asset for the West, which cannot afford to sever its ties no mat- asset to deal with Turkey. If it was not, then that move would Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn ter how strained they may become. And using that situation as aggravate the situation more and thus lead General Sidorov to St., Watertown, MA 02472 a point of leverage, Turkey can move towards the West’s adver- make his announcements at this point in time. Other than the editorial, views and opinions saries, namely Russia and Iran, with impunity. The upcoming Francophonie conference in Yerevan and expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily Eli Lake, in an opinion piece in Bloomberg, warns Turkey that Armenia’s intensifying relations with the European Union and reflect the policies of the publisher. “the US should make clear to ersatz allies that betrayal has con- individual European countries may be developing at the expense sequences,” to no avail. of Moscow’s patience with Armenia, which it considers a vassal On the other hand, Russia, which is suffering from the NATO state. At what point would Moscow’s patience run out and thus squeeze and Western sanctions, would compromise many issues give the green light to Baku to another skirmish with Armenia? Copying for other than personal use or just to draw a wedge in the ranks of NATO members. Among the Sidorov’s message has political connotations. Why make a internal reference is prohibited without compromises may be Armenia’s fate. Developments are indicat- statement on an obvious situation? And the statement sounds express permission of the copyright owner. Address requests for reprints or ing that it may be the case even as an unintended consequence. hollow within the context of the Armenia-Azerbaijan standoff. It back issues to: After Aliyev’s threatening speech staking his claim on Yerevan is obvious that if war breaks out, it will start from Karabakh and and Sevan, Azerbaijan is engaged in war games on Armenia’s it will be because of Karabakh. Excluding that potential in the Baikar Association, Inc. borders. To quell suspicions, Azeri Foreign Minister Elmar strategic partnership between Armenia and Russia is a very omi- Mammadyarov has announced that after the elections in nous development which casts a dark pall over the Russian mil- 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- Armenia and Azerbaijan, more concrete and substantive negoti- itary presence in Armenia. 1509 18 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY New Constitution: The Promised Democracy Is Yet another Defeat

The disregard for the citizens is total: the economic and social of emigration. Armenia is under the influence of the great pow- By Philippe Raffi Kalfayan conditions are such for the vast majority that everything is for ers; the question of Nagorno-Karabakh and its latent conflict is sale, including the ballot papers, whether on national elections weighing on its diplomatic relations and on foreign investments. [see the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe It is the vital interest of the Republic of Armenia to mobilize and Recent news from Armenia is rather (OSCE) reports for the last legislative elections and Public hold together its citizens and the Diaspora around a democrat- distressing. We witnessed the selection of Forum Armenia (PFA) report for the constitutional referendum ic, just and sovereign society project. Domestic peace, based on a single candidate and his election as of December 2015 or on professional [the website of the Bar of values to which the whole nation adheres, is the unique reme- President of the Republic of Armenia by Armenia mentions the financing by an Armenian sponsor of the dy to economic welfare and effective ability to counter external the sole will of the Prince. Choosing the diaspora of annual fees of hundreds of registered lawyers; this threats. prime minister will take place only after April 9, when the cur- measure is unbecoming of a lawyer because it is an attack on Successive country leaders failed in this mission for different rent president’s term will end, and Parliament will have eight his independence and on the very foundations of the profession. reasons and circumstances. Today it is no longer possible to days to propose candidates and elect one. Already, the In countries where lawyers cannot fund their fees, the bar ignore it. The organizations of the diaspora as well as some per- Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) has announced that it sup- grants exemptions] or partisan elections. The clientelism in sonalities selected as interfaces by the Armenian government ports the principle of an open and nominal ballot, which is a such a social environment is another form of contempt for turn a blind eye, hiding behind the principle of non-interference considerable means of pressure on the deputies. The votes of human conscience. in the domestic politics of Armenia. We also witness indiffer- the Republican Party and those of its ally, the Dashnak Party, The state of war with Azerbaijan and the aggressive and hate- ence, complacency and even complicity, not to mention the per- form a majority at the Parliament and that leaves little doubt ful behavior of the latter towards Armenia seems to be an effec- sonal interests of some. about their candidate’s election. In the run-up to joining the tive argument to silence the diaspora on the domestic political The good will of associations and individuals in the diaspora, coalition, the ARF insisted on the necessity to reform the con- life by brandishing its threat to national security, but it no who engage selflessly, without waiting for any reward of their stitution and strengthen democratic governance through tran- longer interferes with the families’ willingness to leave the coun- actions, is not questioned, but those people must face the obvi- sition from a semi-presidential regime to a parliamentary one. try and protect their children as they approach the age of con- ous: bright projects and good intentions are not enough to stem The present scenario comes to prove that democracy has once scription. the emigration of the population. more been defeated. In addition, it perpetuates the contempt The famous French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of The actions of the commando group Sasna Tzrer and its against the citizens, weakens the image of Armenia on the inter- the Citizen of 1789 noted in its preamble that “ignorance, obliv- deadly results are in itself regrettable [the circumstances of the national arena, and weakens its leaders, including the new pres- ion, or contempt for human rights are the only cause of public deaths of the three police officers are still unclear], it is ident, domestically and abroad. misfortune and of government corruption.” It was not until nonetheless understandable. It was an expression of rebellion, 1948 and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that the although one may question if the undefined criteria of tyranny A president with a considerably affected legitimacy community of states, through the United Nations, established and oppression were met or not. Armenians of the diaspora who The Minister of Justice, who led all the legislative drafting conventions and international pacts. They have become essen- have allowed themselves to judge these men, many of whom are efforts to comply with the new constitution, says Armenia con- tial legal and political instruments. They are the foundation of veterans or heroes of the Karabakh war, had absolutely no right siders credible the statement of President-elect Armen the rule of law. The state is recognized as the legally obliged to do so; only the people living in Armenia can express them- Sarkissian that he renounced his British citizenship in 2011 subject and guarantor of their implementation, but the univer- selves on this subject and they did it either by expressing their and adds that no further confirmation would be needed, in any sal principles belong to the citizens and become weapons sympathy or by keeping quiet for the majority. The repression case, from another country because Armenia is a sovereign against the abuses of those who hold the powers. of the government was all the more strong and arbitrary against state. This statement is not only an affront to the good sense of It is worth remembering, as does the Constitution of the the political leaders of this movement and its supporters. the whole Armenian nation, it is also characteristic of the opac- United States of America, that the people are sovereign and not Remarkably, the murderers of March 1, 2008 demonstrators ity of political life in Armenia, and it is, above all, a thinly-veiled the state: “We the People of the United States ... do ordain and have still not been arrested and the commissioners of the attack admission that the elected president does not satisfy one of the establish this Constitution ...” on parliament on October 27, 1999 were never brought to jus- requirements of the new Constitution: to have been a citizen The Universal Declaration went further and gave birth to the tice. Meanwhile, the public prosecutor demands that Jirayr only of the Republic of Armenia for the last six years. A quick right to rebellion. The preamble “considers it is essential, if man Sefilyan, Garo Yeghnukian, Gevorg Safarian, be prosecuted, analysis supports that assertion: (1) in 2011, it is unlikely that is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebel- seeking long prison sentences for their vehement criticism of Armen Sarkissian could foresee that the new Constitution lion against tyranny and oppression, that human rights should the regime and their desire to put an end to it by organizing would be adopted in 2015 and that it would be chosen by be protected by the rule of law.” mass protests in 2015 or resisting the police (Safarian case). President Serzh Sargsyan in 2017; (2) who can believe for a Whichever scenario is to be played in April, this article is an moment that he renounced his British citizenship in 2011 and Virtuous Yet Flawed UN Discourse appeal to the current and future leaders of Armenia and to all convinced Prince Charles to visit Armenia in 2013, a chain of The absence of democracy and respect for human rights political forces to reconsider the mode of governance, to bring events that would have been shocking to say the least for the refers to a certain form of structuring and formation of the new political leadership from inside and outside Armenia, and British Crown? (3) Having lived in Britain for the last 30 years state, which reflects the balance of forces and the assertion of to free, on the occasion of the implementation of the new con- (with the exception of the period when he was Prime Minister), arbitrariness. stitution, all political prisoners. he is likely to return to live in the UK sooner or later. The temptation of relativisation with Turkey and Azerbaijan A coalition of NGO’s also reacted on March 5 to the news in terms of human rights records is easy but not acceptable (Philippe Raffi Kalfayan is a columnist for the Mirror- about the failure of new president “to dispel the doubts about because the issue at stake is neither more nor less than the Spectator. He is an international legal expert, the former sec- his citizenship” (Read Transparency statement). political survival of the country and its security. Some retary general of the International Federation for Human Lawyer Vahé Grigoryan supports a more daring analysis, denounce human rights as a weapon used by Western states Rights (FIDH), an associate researcher at the Paris Human which relates to the process of electing the new president (see and international NGOs, and complain that there are double Rights Center at the University of Paris 2 Pantheon Assas.) http://www.ilur.am/news/view/66500.html; standards. There are many both in Armenia and in the Diaspora http://www.ilur.am /news/view/66627.html; who regard human rights as superfluous and prefer a priority http://www.ilur.am/news/view/66818.html). He considers focus on economic development. The first statement contains LETTERS that the new Constitution is not yet in force, and that conse- some truth and is debatable, but is this the essential? The sec- quently the election of the President should have been in accor- ond statement shows an unawareness that economic, social and dance with the terms of the 2005 Constitution, namely by the cultural rights are “inseparable, interdependent, and interrelat- A Quandary or Amot Eh? direct vote of the population, and not by not by Parliament, ed” with civil and political rights. The World Conference on which would have exceeded its constitutional powers as defined Human Rights in 1993 enshrined this principle. Thoughtful To The Editor: in 2005. observers know, as an example, that an Armenian entrepreneur, Thank you for highlighting the vital issue of gender selection Whatever the angle of analysis, and whatever his personal from Armenia or from the Diaspora, has no chance to defend abortion in Armenia, “We Lose 1,400 Girls a Year. Who Will qualifications and skills, which are not in question, the new his rights fairly if he is confronted with an adversarial dispute Our Boys Marry?: Armenia’s Quandary” (Suzanne Moore, president starts his mandate with a handicap: an illegitimate with one of the oligarchic clans that reign over the economy. 3/3/18). This article presents some “progress” in gender equal- election. Moreover, Britain’s diplomatic silence on the status of As a result of a total mistrust in the institutions and indiffer- ity, expressing the efforts made to engage the church and social his citizenship can become a weapon that can be used against ence to political life, citizens developed a survival reflex that is services to decrease abortions of female babies. Allow me to dif- him. Domestically it can reduce his ability to manoeuver com- deeply individualistic and materialistic. These injustices and dis- fer. pared to his predecessors while internationally, in terms of for- parities generate individual and collective violence. The small Exhorting Armenian priests, “You are clergymen…The word eign policy, it poses an even bigger threat. size of the country adds to the political, economic and social is your weapon” sounds potent. But the word of God has no pressures as well as fears of violence, especially in the provinces. power for you, unless you are surrendered to the Lord, and it is Sovereignty for the People, not the State The individual prefers to negotiate rather than confront. only a sword if God wields it through you. If Armenian priests Despite the continuously alarming diagnosis that has been Human life has a price in prosecutors’ offices, even if this sub- really believed that they are accountable to God, they would fall repeated throughout the last 25 years of the Third Republic of ject is taboo in Armenia. This observation is certainly dark but on the floor and repent of betraying the most basics in the faith. Armenia, the population hemorrhage continues and endangers it is reality. And finally, there is the issue of emigration. “Thou shalt not kill” would be their heart cry to the people, the foundations of the state. In the wake of constitutional International aid does not solve corruption, but on the con- prompted by God Himself. reforms adopted in December 2015, the distressing spectacle of trary, in its current form, feeds it. Tens of millions of dollars and “Getting the church on your side, along with the government the election of a single candidate for the presidency, under euros are being invested unabated in justice reforms, human and civil society is quite something.” The true “church” stands questionable eligibility conditions, by the Armenian Parliament, rights training and the establishment of the rule of law, by to represent God, calling others to believe and join into the the concentration of all executive and legislative powers in the USAID and EUROPAID, did not help reversing the trend but Body of Christ. Would Jesus Christ work alongside the hands of the future prime minister, the hidden control of the just enrich Armenian civil servants and some offshore consult- Armenian government and social groups to equalize abortion? judiciary. For example, is it conceivable in a lawful state for an ing companies under the tolerant eye of these international Is the Holy Spirit present in abortion clinics hoping that the attorney, a member of the Bar Council, to be a partner in a com- institutions. operation is ‘gender neutral’? pany with a High Magistrate of the Court of Cassation and a It is a lost and darkened society that strives to improve and Bankruptcy Judge? Lawyers defending political prisoners are Create National Cohesion to Better Deal with qualify sin. “Everyone stresses this is not being for or against caught between multiple disciplinary measures instituted by External Threats abortion….The right to abortion is an achievement of civiliza- their Chamber’s President and the new law that allows judges The recent speeches of the Armenian Foreign Minister and tion.” An epidemic in Armenia for many years, it is not uncom- to directly sanction lawyers, making the performance of their President before the UN and European Assemblies promoting mon for Armenian women to have 20 abortions during their life- duties all the more challenging economic and technical wise, human rights principles are noteworthy and laudable, but what time. with the aim of discouraging them. The overwhelmingly harsh about their effective application in Armenia itself? Armenian clergy working toward gender neutral abortions treatment of the most radical political opponents, such as the There is no alternative to the establishment of the rule of law and, moreover, believing as the world does that this is a real members of the Founding Parliament, manifests the political in Armenia and the restoration of the sovereignty of the people. accomplishment, are most depraved. sickness of Armenia. The propaganda of Armenian organiza- It is a small state, without energy resources, heavily indebted, Lisa Stepanian tions and media in diaspora cannot change this cruel reality. without prospects for economic development at the current rate New York, NY S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 19 COMMENTARY

right, but ‘shall promote’ its realization proactively…. They integrity is only valid in the case of an external attack: “The must not only respect the right, but implement it. Moreover principle is not intended for internal application, because in modern international law, self-determination is an erga this would automatically cancel out the jus cogens [com- omnes [towards everyone] commitment stipulated in numer- pelling law] right of self-determination. Every single exercise ous articles of the UN Charter and in countless Security of the right of self-determination that results in secession My Turn Council and General Assembly resolutions. The empower- has entailed an adjustment to the territorial integrity of the ment of peoples to enjoy human rights without discrimina- previous State entity. There are too many precedents to By Harut Sassounian tion and to exercise a degree of self-government is crucial for count.” national and international stability. Otherwise, a significant There should be no discrimination among people who seek potential for conflict remains.” self-determination, according to Prof. de Zayas: “The inde- International Legal Expert Significantly, Professor de Zayas stressed: “Even though pendence of the former Soviet republics and the secession of Affirms Artsakh’s Right of Self- self-determination has emerged as a jus cogens [compelling the peoples of the former Yugoslavia created important prece- law] right, superior to many other international law princi- dents for the implementation of self-determination. These Determination ples, including territorial integrity, it is not self-executing.” precedents cannot be ignored when modern self-determina- Among “legitimate claimants to the right of self-determina- tion disputes arise. It is not possible to say yes to the self- A colloquium was held on February 27, 2018, at the tion,” Professor de Zayas included the Kurds, Sahraouis, determination of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Croatia, European Parliament in Brussels on the legal right of self- Palestinians, Kashmiris, Igbos of Biafra, and Tamils of Sri Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, but then say no to the self- determination for Nagorno-Karabagh (Artsakh). It was hosted Lanka. He also mentioned as examples “the Russian- determination of the people of Abkhazia, Southern Ossetia or by European Parliament deputies Michèle Rivasi (Verts/A Ukrainian entities of Lugansk and Donetsk, the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh. All these peoples have the same human LE) and Lars Adaktusson (EPP); and co-organized by the Pridnestrovia (Transnistria-Moldavia), the Republic of rights and must not be discriminated against. As in the case Armenian Legal Center for Justice and Human Rights, Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), Abkhazia, and Southern of the successful claimants, these peoples also unilaterally Tufenkian Foundation, and the European Armenian Ossetia… among peoples that have achieved self-determina- declared independence. There is no justification whatever to Federation for Justice and Democracy. tion through effective separation from State entities with deny them recognition by applying self-determination selec- The speakers at the colloquium were: Dr. Alfred de Zayas, which they had hitherto been associated, but their interna- tively and making frivolous distinctions that have no base in a UN Independent Expert on the promotion of a democratic tional status remains inchoate because of the political bicker- law or justice.” and equitable international order; Dr. Paul Williams, ing among the great powers and consequent lack of interna- For those who juxtapose the principle of territorial integri- Professor of Law, American University Washington College of tional recognition.” ty to self-determination, Prof. de Zayas countered: “The prin- Law and co-founder of Public International Law & Policy Professor de Zayas added that people seeking self-determi- ciple of territorial integrity is not sufficient justification to Group; Dr. Sergey Markedonov, Associate Professor at nation “are entitled to the full protection of the International perpetuate situations of internal conflict that may fester and Russian State University; Armine Aleksanyan, Deputy human rights treaty regime. A solution to the impasse can erupt in civil war, thus threatening regional and internation- Foreign Minister of Artsakh Republic; and moderator Giro only be through peaceful negotiation, since the use of armed al peace and security.” Manoyan, Board Member of the Armenian Legal Center for force against self-determination would violate numerous inter- Finally, Professor de Zayas suggested that “In order to Justice and Human Rights. national treaties, including the UN Charter, the human rights ensure sustainable internal and external peace in the twenty- Prof. Alfred de Zayas started his legal argument by quoting Covenants, and the Geneva Red Cross Conventions.” first century, the international community must react to early from the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights “If there is a compelling demand for separation,” de Zayas warning signs and establish conflict-prevention mechanisms. and the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights insisted, “it is most important to avoid the use of force, which Facilitating dialog between peoples and organizing referenda which stipulate that “All peoples have the right of self-deter- would endanger local, regional and international stability and in a timely fashion are tools to ensure the peaceful evolution mination.” further erode the enjoyment of other human rights.” In addi- of national and international relations. Inclusion of all stake- Furthermore, de Zayas emphasized that according to the tion, “The implementation of self-determination is not exclu- holders must be the rule, not the exception. In conclusion, let two UN Covenants, “duty bearers of the right of self-determi- sively within the domestic jurisdiction of the State concerned, us celebrate the implementation of self-determination of peo- nation are all States parties to the Covenants, who are not but is a legitimate concern of the international community.” ples as an expression of democracy, as indeed democracy is a merely prohibited from interfering with the exercise of the Prof. de Zayas explained that the principal of territorial form of self-determination.” Erdogan Has Released the Genealogy of Thousands of Turks — But What Is His Motive?

Until now, for at least two decades — at least their visit. There are still centenarians alive in had served as Turkey’s director of religious By Robert Fisk before Sultan Erdogan’s post-coup autocracy – Lebanon and Syria, for example, who all pos- affairs, was the brother of someone who was thousands of Turks spoke freely, albeit in pri- sess the same birth date, whatever their origin. the Armenian patriarch, Shnorhk Kalustyan. vate, about their ancestry. They knew that So why has Turkey released these files now? “Kalustyan, who returned to Turkey from Only in Turkey is the identity of a citizen a amid the mass slaughter and rape of the Erdogan is quoted to have once complained Beirut in 1961, was remembered as a saint in matter of national security. That’s why the pop- Armenians, many Christian families sought that Turks were “accused of being Jews, the Turkish Armenian Patriarchate and as ulation registry in Ankara was until now a sanctuary in conversion to Islam, while tens of Armenians or Greeks.” Tayfun Atay, a colum- someone who had served in the most difficult closed book, its details a state secret. Mustafa thousands of young Armenian women were nist for the Turkish newspaper Cumhuriyet, times after 1915. During the genocide, his Kemal Ataturk’s definition of “Turkishness” given in marriage to Turkish or Kurdish wrote that he was “advised in a friendly matter mother sent the children away and converted was “anyone who is attached to the Turkish Muslim men. Their children grew up as not to admit that I am a Georgian…What about to Islam. Later she married [a man called] state as a citizen”. Turks came from a clear eth- Muslims and regarded themselves as Turks but those who risk learning that they are of Dogan, who was of high social standing, and nic identity, untainted by racial minorities or often knew that they were half-Armenian. Tens Armenian ancestry or a convert? Just think: had two girls and a boy. The boy was Lutfi doubtful lineage. That’s one reason why the of thousands of Armenian orphans were placed you think you are a red-blooded Turk but turn Dogan. When the mother, who was then with Nazis lavished praise on Ataturk’s republic, in Muslim schools, forced to speak Turkish and out to be a pure-blood Armenian.” the Nationalist Action Party…died, his uncle their newspapers mourning his death in black- change their names. One of the largest schools Journalist Serdar Korucu told Al-Monitor came in priest garb from Beirut to attend the bordered front pages. was in Beirut, organized for a time by one of that “if they had done this a few years ago funeral. Nobody could say anything.” After all, as Hitler was to ask in several news- Turkey’s leading feminists who wrote of her when we were [becoming more tolerant], con- This predicament was eloquently conveyed in paper interviews — and to his generals before experience and was later to die in America. spiracy theories would not have been as strong Fethiye Çetin’s memoir of her grandmother, a he invaded Poland — who now remembers the The Armenian diaspora — the 11 million as today, when the state believes we are in a respected Muslim housewife in the small Armenians? Ataturk had supposedly inherited Armenians living outside Turkey or Armenia struggle for existence. This is how Turkey rein- Turkish town of Maden, who revealed to her an Armenian-free Turkey, just as Hitler intend- itself, and who trace their ancestry back to the vigorates the spirit of the Independence War” granddaughter that she was Armenian. Most of ed to present his followers with a Jew-free survivors of the 1915 genocide — were the first — to inspire patriotism and pro-government the men in her village were slaughtered, Seher Europe. The Armenian genocide of 1915 — to understand the significance of the newly- thinking. (her real Armenian name was Heranus) said. A denied by the Turkish government today — opened population registers, noting that some In 2003, the Armenian newspaper Agos, Turkish gendarme had adopted her. Fethiye destroyed a million and a half Christian information dated back to the early 1800s. Up whose editor Hrant Dink was assassinated out- Çetin, a human rights lawyer who acted for the Ottoman citizens in the first industrial holo- to four million Turkish citizens were reported side his office in 2007, reported that the soon-to-be-murdered Hrant Dink, posted her caust of the 20th century. Almost the entire to have sought access to their family tree with- Turkish government was secretly coding grandmother’s death announcement in Dink’s Armenian community had been liquidated. Or in 48 hours — which is why the system crashed minorities in registers: Greeks were one, paper, Agos: “Heranus lost her entire family had it? – and in the days since it was re-established, according to the paper. Armenians were two. and never saw them again,” she wrote. “She For the stunned reaction of Turks to the sud- according to retired statistician and Armenian Jews were three. Korucu recalled how the direc- was given a new name, to live in a new family. den and unexpected opening of population reg- demographer George Aghjayan, eight million tor of the Turkish Historical Society threat- She forgot her mother tongue and her reli- isters on an online genealogy database three Turks have requested their pedigrees. That’s 10 ened minorities in 2007. “Don’t make me gion…she never ever forgot her name, her vil- weeks ago was so immediate and so vast that percent of the entire Turkish population. angry. I have a list of converts I can reveal lage, her mother, her father…She lived until the the system crashed within hours. Rather a lot The documents can be vague. And they are down to their streets and homes.” The director age of 95.” Relatives in America read the death of Turks, it turned out, were actually not complete. There are examples of known later became a politician in the rightist notice and Heranus’ sister — still alive — called Armenians – or part-Armenians – or even part- Armenian ancestors listed as Muslim without Nationalist Action Party. Çetin in Istanbul. A family reunited. ly Greek or Jewish. And across the mountains reference to their origin. The names shown for Ethnic Armenian columnist Hayko Bagdat Perhaps two million Turks have Armenian of eastern Anatolia – and around the cities of those known to have converted during the placed this in a story he told the Al-Monitor grandmothers. But they are supposed to Istanbul, Izmir, Erzurum, Van and Gaziantep 1915 genocide are Muslim names — but the website – including an individual family tale believe that the genocide never happened. and along the haunted death convoy routes to Christian names of their parents are also which might be humorous if it was not so Syria, ancient ghosts climbed out of century- shown. There will always be discrepancies and charged with tragedy. “During the 1915 geno- old graves to reassert their Armenian presence unknown details. Many Ottoman registrars did cide, along with mass conversions, there were (Robert Fisk is the chief Middle East corre- in Turkish history. For the registry proved that not give accurate details of birthdays: Turkish also thousands of children in exile…The society spondent for the Independent (UK) daily. This many of them — through their families — were officials might travel to a village once a month is not yet ready to deal with this reality.” column originally ran in the March 1, 2018 still alive. and simply list its newborn under the date of Imagine, Bagdat said, that Lutfi Dogan, who edition of the paper.) 20 S ATURDAY, M ARCH 1 7 , 2 0 1 8 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

Ex-Justice Minister Named Chair of 9th Wounded Soldier in Artsakh Receives Armenian Constitutional Court Home from Tufenkian Foundation STEPANAKERT — Ararat Avanesyan, a sol- Artsakh in the framework of Tufenkian YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Less than two weeks after being elected a member of the dier wounded in the Artsakh Liberation War in Foundation’s “Housing for Wounded Soldiers” Constitutional Court, Armenia’s ex-Minister of Justice Hrair Tovmasian has been named as a the early 1990s, celebrated his housewarming initiative. The initiative was launched in April candidate for the post of the Court’s chairman. on March 13 in the Patara village of Askeran 2016, in response to the Four Day War. Since The nomination of the 47-year-old co-author of Armenia’s Basic region, Artsakh. The house was purchased and then, with funds raised during the 2016 emer- Law was made on Tuesday, March 13, by Armenian Parliament renovated by the Tufenkian Foundation, with gency appeal and through additional support Speaker Ara Babloyan. shared funding from Ralph Yirikian, General from individual donors, nine houses have been Earlier, Babloyan terminated the powers of Gagik Harutiunian as Manager of VivaCell-MTS and the New York St. built, reconstructed or purchased for Artsakh’s chairman of the Constitutional Court following his resignation and Illuminator Cathedral’s election as chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council, a new body Zarukian Fund recently established under Armenia’s reformed Constitution. established by Azaduhi The post of the chairman of the Constitutional Court became Zarukian. vacant before April 9, which means that the 2015 Constitution will Askeran Administration not apply to the election of the new chairman. Accordingly, under Head Sergey Grigoryan, Hrair Tovmasian the 2005 Constitution, it is the National Assembly that will elect Patara Village Mayor Karen the new chairman of the Constitutional Court within a period of 30 Arzumanyan and Tufenkian days. Foundation Executive If the elections were to be held in accordance with the Constitution reformed in 2015, the Director Raffi Doudaklian Constitutional Court would elect its chairman from among its judges for a period of six years attended the event. without the right to be re-elected. Meanwhile, under the provisions of the Basic Law passed Avanesyan was one of in 2005, the chairman of the Constitutional Court, who shall be elected by the National the first freedom fighters Assembly, will serve until he or she attains the age of 65. to join the liberation Artak Zeinalian, a member of the parliament’s opposition Yelk faction, thinks that the movement, and was heavi- authors of the Constitution, including Tovmasian himself, have foreseen such a development. ly wounded in battle, los- Ararat Avenesyan and his wife at the unveiling ceremony “The goal is to ensure that Tovmasian will serve as chairman of the Constitutional Court ing one leg and facing a until 2035 when he turns 65. Formally, there seems to be no problem... But I think that with number of health difficul- this trick the logic of the new Constitution is blocked. Under the new Constitution, the mem- ties since. Today, at the age of 47, he lives in wounded soldiers. bers of the Constitutional Court are replaceable and a more democratic mechanism is to be Patara with his wife and three teenage daugh- Though initially intended to assist soldiers of applied. But I think this was done specifically to neutralize it and for the chairman of the ters. Until recently, the family did not have a the April War, the project was later expanded to Constitutional Court to carry out the political will of the political majority. That is, it was home of their own and had to take up tempo- include Artsakh’s wounded soldiers with urgent done so as to turn the Constitutional Court into a politicized body,” he charged. rary residence at a relatives’ house. housing needs, regardless of which war or bat- This is the ninth housewarming celebrated in tle they were injured in. Ararat Avanesyan is the 3rd soldier of the 90s Liberation War to benefit from the project. The geography of the initia- tive was also expanded during the past two years, ranging from large towns like Stepanakert and Hadrut to small, remote vil- lages in Artsakh’s borderlands. All nine soldiers so far included in the initia- tive faced socio-economic struggles and lived in deplorable housing conditions. Moreover, due to their battle injures, they were unable to ren- ovate their current homes or work to purchase new ones. The house in Patara was purchased last November and has been renovated to ensure that it provides dignified living for Ararat’s fam- ily. In addition to general improvements and repairs, a kitchen and a bathroom have been built. Also, through specific adjustments, the house has been adapted to Ararat’s mobility needs (Avanesyan walks with crutches). Although the 2016 emergency has ended, the housing needs for Artsakh’s soldiers is ongoing. With many wounded soldiers requir- ing similar assistance, the Foundation will con- tinue this work indefinitely.

USC Shoah Foundation Adds Large Collection of Armenian Genocide Testimony to its Archive SHOAH, from page 1 honor the memories of those whose lives were needlessly taken,” said USC Shoah Foundation Vinci-Viterbi Executive Director Stephen Smith. “These voices will help ensure future genera- tions will learn from those who experienced the horrors of the Armenian Genocide.” The Armenian Film Foundation’s collection of testimonies was recorded by J. Michael Hagopian for the purpose of making documen- taries about one of the earliest genocides of the 20th century. By contrast, Hovannisian, a pro- fessor emeritus of Armenian History at UCLA, had a more academic approach. His testimonies typically exceed an hour and feature a wide range of questions about the survivor’s entire life history. Hovannisian, who collected the tes- timonies from 1972 to the 2000s, also inter- viewed some children and grandchildren of sur- vivors in the later years of the project. Hovannisian was one of the founders of Armenian Studies as a discipline in the United States, producing numerous articles and books that are considered foundational, while also training young scholars who went on to become experts in the study of Armenia from ancient to modern times. He is currently professor emeritus at UCLA, adjunct professor at USC and presi- dential fellow at Chapman University.