Sargisian Addresses PACE

JULY 2, 2011 MirTHE rARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXII, NO. 1, Issue 4195 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States New Hotel Complex to Medvedev ‘Frustrated’ with Karabagh Impasse Be Built in Jermuk YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The municipality of KAZAN, Russia (RFE/RL) — Russian Jermuk is going to see the construction of a new President Dmitry Medvedev is frustrated hotel, expected to be completed by next year. With with the failure of his Armenian and the new hotel, the town is expected to be better Azerbaijani counterparts to reach a frame - able to handle increased tourism and become a work agreement on Nagorno-Karabagh and more inviting place for visitors. could stop organizing regular talks The Urban Ministry’s press department reported between them, one of his senior aides that construction documents for the hotel complex reportedly said last Monday. have been approved. The complex will have two “If Azerbaijan and Armenia fail to display buildings, one of which will have a spa center. soon a readiness to solve the accumulated problems, then we will consider this media - tion mission to be over,” a leading Moscow Visitors Flock to daily, Kommersant , quoted a high-ranking Kremlin source as saying. Genocide Museum The unnamed official commented on the YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Armenian Genocide outcome of Medvedev’s latest trilateral Museum-Institute had more than 120,000 visitors negotiations with Presidents Serge during the first five months of the year. Deputy Sargisian and Ilham Aliyev that were held Director Arpine Bablumyan said that among the here last Friday. Despite facing strong inter - visitors were foreign delegations, students, school national pressure, the two leaders failed to groups and tourists. agree on the basic principles of ending the During the five months, about 25 foreign top offi - Karabagh conflict put forward by Russia, cials put notes in the Commemoration Book. the United States and France. From left, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev, Armenian President Serge Sargisian and Russian The museum presents permanent and changing The Kazan meeting was the ninth President Dmitry Medvedev expositions, documents connected with the Armenian-Azerbaijani summit hosted by Genocide and photos. Medvedev in the last three years, a fact The museum is in cooperation with institutions highlighting the Russian president’s central ing that the Kazan summit “unexpectedly played the three presidents’ statement, say - in Germany, France, the US, Austria, Italy and role in the Karabagh peace process. rekindled disagreements which were long ing that Aliyev and Sargisian reached a Russia. According to the Kremlin source, deemed settled by the mediators.” Some of “mutual understanding on a number of Medvedev told Aliyev and Sargisian that he them related to “the determination of issues whose resolution would help to cre - will organize another summit only if they Nagorno-Karabagh’s future status,” said ate conditions for the approval of the basic RI Gov. Signs Genocide “firmly express their readiness to sign up to the diplomat. principles.” He said the parties simply the principles of the settlement.” “But the problem is not so much these “once again confirmed the remaining con - Education Bill The conflicting parties blamed each disagreements as the fact that the parties tentious issues.” PROVIDENCE — Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln D. other for the failure of the Kazan talks that have repeatedly changed their positions. Chafee on June 23 signed legislation passed by the lasted for more than three hours. In partic - And that’s unacceptable,” he added. General Assembly earlier this month instructing ular, Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard The official may have referred to practical the state Department of Education to help local Nalbandian claimed that Aliyev scuttled an modalities of a future referendum on self- schools teach about genocide as a critical compo - agreement by demanding “about a dozen” determination in Karabagh. The holding of Azerbaijan nent of civic education. last-minute changes in the latest version of such a plebiscite is a key element of the The legislation, sponsored by state Sen. Joshua the basic principles. peace framework advocated by the three Warns Armenia Miller (D-Dist. 28) and state Rep. Anastasia P. Kommersant cited an unnamed diplomat mediating powers. Williams (D-Dist. 9), directs the state Department of involved in the negotiating process as say - The Kommersant source also down - Education to post on its website materials to help With Show of schools teach students about genocides, including the Holocaust and those in Armenia, Cambodia, Military Might Iraq, Rwanda and Darfur. In 2000, the General Assembly passed a law Sargisian Addresses PACE BAKU (AFP) — Azerbaijan paraded thou - requiring the Department of Education to develop sands of soldiers and hundreds of military materials on genocide and human rights issues and Karabagh Status, Genocide come the consequences of the tragic vehicles through its capital on Sunday, in a guidelines for teaching them. events of March 2008 have been dis - show of force two days after talks failed to “Genocides and human rights violations carried And Peace with Neighbors cussed in detail with all of our partners, resolve a bitter territorial dispute with out by governments are ugly chapters of history, Addressed including those in the Council of Europe. Armenia. but students are future leaders and voters and they We have sometimes had serious discrep - Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who need to learn about mistakes of the past to keep STRASBOURG — President Serge ancies and have respectfully disagreed has overseen massive increases in defense them from being repeated,” said Williams. Sargisian, on the eve of the Kazan summit with each other’s assessments. We have, spending, warned in his speech that he was Said Miller, “Making the curriculum on genocide in Russia, addressed the Parliamentary however, benefited from the exchange, ready to take back Nagorno Karabagh, available to Rhode Island teachers online will make Assembly of the Council of Europe the wisdom of the experience and the which was seized from Azerbaijan in the it much more likely that students will learn about (PACE) on June 22. 1990s by Armenian separatist forces. these subjects.” Among other topics, “The war is not over yet,” Aliyev said at Sargisian stressed that the showpiece parade in the center of Armenia was trying to Baku, vowing to end what he called the become a more democratic “occupation” of Karabagh. INSI DE country, while acknowledg - “The territorial integrity of Azerbaijan ing stumbling in the past. must be restored and the territory will be He also stressed that restored,” he said. Armenia shares much with Six thousand troops marched in the Zohrab Europe historically. parade, accompanied by tanks, armored “The people of Armenia cars and rocket launchers, as fighter planes have made their historic and combat helicopters roared overhead Center and irreversible choice. Our and warships lined up in the nearby road to becoming closer to Caspian Sea bay. page 10 Europe has been unique in In his speech, Aliyev also spoke approv - a natural way. However, President Serge Sargisian speaks at PACE. ingly about the increases in defense spend - there have been obstacles, ing financed by the energy-rich state’s huge which are not natural, such revenues from oil and gas exports. as the artificial and unlawful blockade constructive dialogue. “Azerbaijan has fulfilled the task that I INDEX imposed on Armenia by our two neigh - “We are determined to continue the set, which was that Azerbaijan’s military Armenia ...... 2 bors. However, in spite of all the diffi - reforms. We recognize that Armenia expenditure must exceed the entire state Arts and Living ...... 12 culties, our society knows precisely cannot develop without further funda - budget of Armenia,” he said, noting that Community News...... 5 where it is going.” mental improvements that will perhaps defense spending reached $3.3 billion Editorial ...... 14 “In 2008, our country experienced be no less painful than the ones imple - this year. International ...... 3,4 serious problems and challenges. The mented in the past.” Military hardware manufactured in steps taken by the government to over - see PACE, page 16 Azerbaijan, including unmanned drones, see AZERBAIJAN, page 3 2 S ATURDAY , JULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Tax Reprieve Touted as Successful

YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — The “As a result, we have had invest - about the fairness of the tax reprieve Banking Sector in Armenian government has attracted ment projects totaling 61 billion in September 2009 when it rejected a Armenia, Georgia Shows 61 billion drams ($163 million) in drams,” the premier said at a weekly similar application from a prominent business investments as a result of its session of his cabinet. “As of now, entrepreneur whose son was charged Growth 2009 decision to offer a temporary about 1,000 new jobs have been cre - with plotting to assassinate Gagik tax reprieve to companies importing ated and it is expected that a total of Khachatrian, the controversial chief TBILISI, Georgia (PanArmenian.Net) — In Armenia, industrial equipment, Prime Minister 1,700 jobs will be created during the of Armenia’s tax and customs service. about 1 million bank cards have been issued, along- Tigran Sargisian said last Thursday. implementation of this scheme.” The businessman, Albert Yeritsian, side 3,195 POS terminals and 778 ATM units The decision made at the height of “Thus, this legal instrument that planned to construct a new bread- installed. the global economic crisis allows the was given to the government [by the making factory in Yerevan and The number of POS terminals in Georgia totals government to delay by up to three National Assembly] is producing pos - imported $6 million worth of equip - 10,286 units: ATM stations, 1,512, and bank cards, years the collection of a 20 percent itive results,” he told ministers. ment from the Czech Republic for about three million. value-added tax (VAT) from such Sargisian spoke as the government that purpose. Yeritsian reportedly Azerbaijan, a country with a population of over 8 imports. They have to exceed 300 mil - approved a VAT payment delay for a sent it back to the supplier after the million, shows the following results: it has 7,988 lion drams and be delivered to manu - company that plans to build a flower rebuff. POS terminals, 1,992 ATMs and slightly over 4 mil- facturing firms with export potential. greenhouse in a village in the central VAT has long been the single lion credit cards. The government has granted such Kotayk province. A government state - largest source of Armenia’s tax rev - Despite the difficult post-crisis period, the banking tax privileges on a case-by-case basis. ment said the company called enues. More than 60 percent of the sector shows good growth rates in Georgia and According to Sargisian, 17 companies Ecotomato will invest 2 billion drams government’s VAT proceeds comes Armenia, on average 15 percent. have benefited from the scheme since and create 30 jobs there. from imported goods, commodities it was introduced in early 2009. The government raised questions and equipment. Parliament Discusses VAT Exemption of Imported Agricultural Machines Industry ‘Key to Armenian Growth in 2011’ YEREVAN (Arka) — On Wednesday, the Armenian Parliament adopted the amendments in laws relating YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Industry will little faster,” added Davtian. of government plans to open three “free to value added tax (VAT), proposing to exempt be the main driving force of Armenia’s Armenia’s GDP increased by 2.6 per - economic zones.” The Armenian parlia - imported agricultural machines and fertilizers from ongoing economic recovery this year, cent last year following a more than 14- ment approved a relevant government VAT. Agricultural Minister Sergo Karapetian said the having already grown by over 10 per - percent slump registered in 2009 bill in May. amendments will increase the accessibility of import- cent, Economy Minister Tigran Davtian because of the global recession. The Yerevan’s Zvartnots international air - ed resources used in agriculture, including mecha- said last Friday. NSS has still not released collated GDP port will house one of the tax havens. It nization of production process. Industrial production has been great - data for the first quarter. will mainly cater for domestically-grown Particularly, the amendments propose to exempt ly helped by the increased international Davtian claimed that the Armenian agricultural produce to be exported the imported agricultural machines, spare parts, fer- prices of copper and other base metals, government deserves credit for renewed abroad. tilizers, pesticides, seeds, and especially wheat and Armenia’s number one export. growth in the domestic economy and According to Davtian, another tax- barley. Davtian insisted that this was not the industry in particular. He pointed to free zone will be located in Yerevan’s only reason for the strong performance government efforts to improve the Mars electronics factory that was hand - of the manufacturing sector. He said country’s business environment and ed over to Russia in 2003 as part of a Consumer Advocate there has also been robust growth in spur manufacturing activity. Russian-Armenian equities-for-debt Complains about Yerevan diamond processing, machine building Davtian also stressed the importance agreement. and light industry. Public Transport Speaking at a news conference, the minister forecast that industrial output YEREVAN (Hetq) — Armen Poghosyan, president of will be up by more than 10 percent in Pentagon Praises Armenia for the Consumers’ Association, has penned an open let- the first half of this year. The govern - ter to Prime Minister Tigran Sargisian and Yerevan ment therefore stands by its earlier pro - Mayor Karapetyan, complaining about the dismal jections that the Armenian economy Growing Defense Ties with US state of public transportation in the capital. will grow by at least 4.6 percent in Poghosyan pointed out that the current aging 2011, he said. YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — A senior sion,” said Wallander. “We tend to for - fleet of microbuses in Yerevan is inadequate to han- “I think that [GDP growth] will be a Pentagon official praised Armenia for get about it because it’s so successful. dle the transportation needs of passengers given contributing troops to the NATO-led But I think it’s important for everyone their run-down condition and cramped quarters. missions in Afghanistan and Kosovo to understand that the reason it is suc - (Some of these “mashkrutakas” are so tiny that peo- and broadening military ties with the cessful is because so many partners ple are forced to bend their hands and perform other United States during a visit to Yerevan have been willing to be there and con - feats of physical contortion just to fit in.) Opposition Party last Monday. tribute to this post-conflict situation.” He states that increasing the number of regular Celeste Wallander, the US deputy The US official added that the buses is a stop-gap measure at best and that ineffi- To Continue assistant secretary of defense for Pentagon will continue to support a cient gas-guzzlers will not resolve the issue of Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Policy, also special peacekeeping brigade of the exhaust fumes released into the atmosphere. Parliament Boycott promised continued US assistance to an Armenian Armed Forces that has pro - Poghosyan called on the government to devise a ongoing reform of the Armenian mili - vided military personnel for the long-term transportation strategy that centers on YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — One of the tary aimed at bringing it into greater Afghanistan and Kosovo missions as electric vehicles. two opposition parties represented in conformity with NATO standards. well as the US-led occupation force in Armenia’s parliament said on Monday Wallander met with Defense Minister Iraq. that it will continue boycotting National Seyran Ohanian and Foreign Minister School for Diasporan Assembly sessions in protest against Eduard Nalbandian to discuss what she Journalists Opens in what it sees as President Serge described as an “extensive list” of issues Sargisian’s efforts to tighten his grip on on the agenda of US-Armenian military Yerevan Genocide Armenia power. cooperation. “I commented to the min - The five parliament deputies repre - ister [Ohanian] that each time we meet Museum to Host YEREVAN (PanArmenian.Net) — The opening cere- senting the Zharangutyun (Heritage) we have more and more to discuss,” she mony of a school for young journalists from the party demonstratively walked out of the told a weekly television program pro - Program on Related diaspora took place on June 27, at Yerevan State 131-member assembly on February 28 duced by the Armenian Defense Books in 2012 University. following Sargisian’s new power-shar - Ministry in an interview. The Armenian Minister of Diaspora Hranush ing agreement with his junior coalition “President Obama has made very YEREVAN (Armenpress) — As part of Hakobyan, Yerevan State University (YSU) Rector partners, the Orinats Yerkir and clear that the US continues to be com - the events connected with the declara - Aram Simonyan, as well as the head of Education Prosperous Armenia (BHK) parties. mitted to providing stability and secu - tion of Yerevan as World Capital of department at Yerevan municipality, Gayane The agreement commits Orinats rity by supporting the development of Books, the Armenian Genocide- Soghomonyan, participated in the event. Yerkir and the BHK to supporting the the Afghan security forces,” Wallander Museum Institute will organize on April As the press office of the Republic of Armenia incumbent president in the 2013 presi - said. “So we are very grateful to the 23, 2012 a special exhibition of books Ministry of Diaspora reported, having greeted the dential election. It also states that the [Armenia] Ministry of Defense for mak - titled, “Book as Testimony of the students, Hakobyan wished for success for the ini- two parties as well as Sarkisian’s ing that commitment and contributing Genocide.” tiative. She also emphasized the importance of pre- Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) to that mission.” Director of the museum, Hayk senting Armenia in the world properly. The minis- will have an even greater representation Armenia sent an additional 81 sol - Demoyan, said that exclusive ancient ter of diaspora called on young journalists to join in the next National Assembly to be diers to Afghanistan a week ago, almost samples of literature have been in the formation of a strong state. elected in May 2012. tripling its presence with the NATO-led acquired for presentation at the exhibi - The resolution to open the school was made in Like other major opposition forces, multinational force stationed there. tion. Karabagh during the fifth congress of the Zharangutyun condemned this provi - Another 80 Armenian troops have been “It will be a grand exposition where Armenian journalists, organized by the Armenian sion, saying that it effectively predeter - serving under NATO command in we will present the Armenian Genocide Ministry of Diaspora, in 2010. mines the outcome of the 2012 parlia - Kosovo. through books,” Demoyan said, adding mentary elections. Its lawmakers have “It is very important for people to that books printed during the past 150 since refused to attend parliament remember that Armenians are also serv - years will be presented, offering the debates and votes. ing in Kosovo as part of the KFOR mis - whole history of genocide. S ATURDAY , JULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Russian Symphony Conductor Apologizes International News For Insulting Armenian Cellist Cyprus’ Ethnic Split

MOSCOW (Epress.am) — Armenian Gorenstein to competition participant neither conveyed nor did I wish to con - Stops Player Joining cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan has accept - Narek Hakhnazaryan. vey any nationalist undertones in my Practice ed the apology from conductor Mark “We consider that words reflecting on remarks, since that is totally foreign Gorenstein for insulting remarks made an individual’s dignity do damage to the both to me personally and to our team.” NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — A Greek-Cypriot club said during the 14th International creative atmosphere that we have According to the chief conductor, the on Tuesday that a Turkish-Cypriot player from the Tchaikovsky Competition in which worked so hard to establish. The pur - orchestra he conducts is a multination - breakaway north of divided Cyprus was prevented Hakhnazaryan is a participant. pose of the Tchaikovsky Competition is al group, which employs Armenian, from joining a team practice session in a develop- Hakhnazaryan conveyed this news him - to support young musicians, and every Bashkir, Belarussian, Georgian, Jewish, ment seen as sports being influenced by politics. self to Russian news agency Itar-Tass. Alki FC spokesman Michalis Markou said that “All is well. My head, my thoughts are Turkish-Cypriot authorities stopped forward now only on the competition. I am con - Mustafa Yasinses on Monday from crossing into the centrating on the music for my upcom - internationally-recognized Greek-Cypriot south to ing performance in the finals,” he said. join the session. During the recital on June 25, artistic Turkish-Cypriots playing for Greek-Cypriot teams director and chief conductor of the State is rare on the island, which was split in 1974 when Academic Symphony Orchestra of Russia Turkey invaded after a coup by supporters of a (Svetlanov Symphony Orchestra), union with Greece. Gorenstein, told the orchestra: “Don’t let Yasinses recently signed a four-year deal with it concern you at all what this talent, this Alki in the coastal resort of Larnaca, making him aul [someone from a small village in the only the fifth Turkish-Cypriot player to join a mountains; meant to indicate lack of Greek-Cypriot club since a ban on crossing a United respect] presented to us is playing. Your Nations-controlled cease-fire line was lifted in task is to play what is written there in the 2003. score and to do it with me.” This state - “From what we know, the player was due to ment offended journalists who were at arrive on Monday for a training session but never the recital, after which the story gained Cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan Conductor Mark Gorenstein turned up,” Markou said. “We were later informed public attention. that he had been denied permission to cross at the Since then, an official statement has check point by the Turkish-Cypriot administra- appeared on the competition website, one of the competition’s organizers and Russian, Tatar and Ukrainian peoples tion.” which reads as follows: “The Organizing participants is obliged to treat its com - and “never during my leadership has Markou said the club would unveil their new Committee of the XIV International petitors with the utmost respect.” there been conflict on ethnic grounds.” signings next week and is “concerned with the lat- Tchaikovsky Competition regards as “I would like to explain my position “I am very sorry about what hap - est developments.” insulting the statements addressed by regarding the incident,” Gorenstein told pened and I offer my sincere apologies Yasinses, 23, played in the unrecognized Turkish- Artistic Director of the Svetlanov State Itar-Tass. “First, it was a conversation to all those whom I hurt with my Cypriot football league before signing with Alki. Symphony Orchestra of Russia Mark within the team. Second, I assure you, I words,” said Gorenstein. Ali Basman, the chairman of his former team, reportedly said that his club would never give their consent to Yasinses joining Alki. Gul Defends Turkey’s Plans to Filter Internet Access Interpol Extradites

ISTANBUL (Today’s Zaman) — will be required to sign up for one of the icantly to the strengthening of democ - Romanian Wanted in Turkish President Abdullah Gul has four levels of filtering, with the “stan - racy, adding that revolutions in the Armenia defended Turkey’s plans to filter dard” option allowing subscribers to Middle East are a good example of access to some websites, saying at a access all available websites, according how the Internet has helped spread BERLIN (Tert.am) — A Romanian national who has meeting with Google Executive to the government. Turkey’s democracy. Social networking sites been accused by the Armenian police of commit- Chairman and former Chief Executive Information Technologies and such as Facebook and Twitter have ting several crimes in Armenia was arrested in Officer Eric Schmidt that it is meant Communications Authority (BTK) has been major tools in the spread of pro- Germany and extradited to Armenia. to protect families. not revealed the exact details on which democracy demonstrations across the Dragos B., 33, was on the wanted list since Schmidt, who had a meeting with Gul websites would be restricted under the Middle East. February 2009. He was arrested in Germany and at the Cankaya Presidential Palace on three other filtering options. Gul also asked Schmidt to take steps was flown to Armenia, accompanied by Armenian Tuesday, June 21, spoke against the Gul also said advancements in infor - to reinforce Google’s presence in Turkey police officers. planned filtering system, saying at a mation technology contributed signif - through its office. meeting with journalists earlier in the week that it was a bad idea. But Gul said Armenia, Azerbaijan in the one-hour meeting that the filter - Separated in 2014 World ing system was not a restriction on Internet access. The meeting was closed French-Armenian Presidential Hopeful Cup Draw to the press. Cihan news agency quoted Gul as say - Says Turks ‘Are Very Close’ to Him ZURICH (AP) — Russia and Georgia will be sepa- ing that he valued Internet freedom but rated in the draw for the 2014 World Cup, as will that the family, which he said keeps a PARIS (PanArmenian.Net) — The became popular [through the support Armenia and Azerbaijan, in a bid to limit potential society alive, was also valuable. youngest contender for the French pres - of] the working class,” he said. political problems. Schmidt, for his part, reiterated that he idency in 2012 has said he is already “I want to change the future, the Armenia and Azerbaijan, which have no diplo- was opposed to Internet restrictions. well-acquainted with Turkey thanks to matic relations, were drawn together in Euro 2008 On August 22, all Internet subscribers family roots that go back to eastern qualifying, but the matches were never played. Turkey. Maxime Verner’s mother is Armenian, and her family is from Erzurum, while Gerard Depardieu Stars Azerbaijan Warns the 21-year-old candidate’s father is eth - In Ad for Armavia nic French. Armenia with Show “I know Turkey very well; I am inter - PARIS (Tert.am) — French actor Gerard Depardieu ested [in Turkish] history also. I feel has starred in a Russian commercial for Armenia’s Of Military Might [that the] Turks are very close to me. national air carrier, Armavia, Itar Tass reported. They are open-minded. I want to build a Maxime Verner The actor watched the new Sukhoi SuperJet-100 AZERBAIJAN, from page 1 bridge between Turkey and other coun - fly at the Paris Air Show and appeared to be quite was on show for the first time to high - tries. I would like to tell them that the impressed, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) light the country’s expanding defense world of tomorrow is ours. We have young generations, the long-term per - told the agency on Wednesday, June 22. industry. responsibilities to conquer and obtain spectives, the world. I want to help Armavia received its first Sukhoi SuperJet-100 on The parade in Baku was the third in solidarity,” Verner said in an interview France open itself to the world. I would April 19. During the first month of operation, the the country’s post-Soviet history and with Hurriyet Daily News . like to free society where anything is plane flew for over 168 hours and transported also marked this year’s 20th anniver - “I am not expecting any support possible for anyone. I believe emotions 2,885 passengers, traveling a distance of about sary of independence. [from] the French-Armenian communi - can change the world,” he said and 85,800 kilometers. It was shown live on state television ty; I am French. But lots of Armenians added that he made extensive use of The second plane was handed over to Aeroflot on in a broadcast preceded by a series of and Turks do support me,” Verner said. modern technology during election June 9. The plane to be operated by Aeroflot made patriotic songs accompanied by images The candidate also said he attended campaigns. the first regular flight on June 16. The plane flew of troops in action and Aliyev wearing Istanbul’s Galatasaray University as an Verner also said he was a member of from Moscow to St. Petersburg to bring passengers camouflage fatigues. exchange student recently. the Association des Jeunes de France for the St. Petersburg International Economic The parade was held after the leaders Verner, whose father was a taxi driver, (The Association for the French Youth) Forum, including officials from the federal govern- of Azerbaijan and Armenia failed to said his interest in politics began while and said the youth wanted to earn the ment, the Transport Ministry, and Aeroflot. agree despite strong international pres - he was working in his father’s cab in the trust of the French people. Aeroflot has ordered 30 such planes. sure to a roadmap document that would village where he was born. “Today, I do “We want to elucidate [people on] have been a significant step towards a not belong to any party; my family has how great the potential of young people Karabagh peace deal. never belonged to any [parties either.] I is and what we can do,” he said. 4 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

Estonia, Belarus Put on Human Trafficking Watch List

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States efforts over the previous reporting period,” it “There are reports of many men and United Arab Emirates and Turkey. Armenian on Monday put Estonia and Belarus on a added, placing Estonia on the Tier-2 watch women from North Korea subjected to condi - men and women are subjected to forced labor human trafficking watch list, alleging they list. tions of forced labor in the logging industry in Russia, while Armenian women are sub - failed in the last year to step up efforts to Belarus was put on the list for the same rea - in the Russian Far East,” it said. jected to forced labor in Turkey. Armenian fight prostitution and forced labor. son, with the report charging that the gov - “There are also reports of exploitation of boys are subjected to forced labor and In its 2011 annual Global Trafficking in ernment in Minsk “demonstrated decreased children, including child prostitution in large Armenian women and girls are found in sex Persons Report, the State Department also law enforcement efforts” while the report was Russian cities and forced begging,” it added. trafficking within the country. Women from maintained Russia on the list for the eighth being conducted. “Russian women were reported to be vic - Russia are subjected to forced labor in consecutive year for the same alleged failures. The report said women and children are tims of sex trafficking in many countries, Armenia,” the report said. “Estonia is a source, transit and destination sold into the sex trade in Russia, Germany, including in Northeast Asia, Europe and As the department noted, the government country for women subjected to forced pros - Poland, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Spain, throughout the Middle East,” it said. of Armenia does not fully comply with the titution, and for men and women subjected to Greece, Belgium, Turkey, Israel, Lebanon, It said that because it had a written plan, minimum standards for the elimination of conditions of forced labor,” the State Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. Russia was not dropped to the lowest Tier-3 trafficking; however, it is making significant Department said. There were also continuing reports of group, countries which are deemed not to be efforts to do so. In 2010, the government pro - Not only are Estonian women from the women from poor families forced into prosti - making significant efforts to meet the mini - vided partial funding for an NGO-run shelter countryside forced into prostitution in the tution in the capital Minsk. mum standards of fighting trafficking. for victims of trafficking and pursued part - capital Tallinn, they also end up in the sex “Belarussian men, women and children are “Russia is devoting sufficient resources to nerships with NGOs to provide training to trafficking trade in Finland, the Netherlands, found in forced begging, as well as in forced implement that plan,” it said. hundreds of officials. The government contin - Britain, Germany and Italy, it said. labor in the construction industry and other Tier-3 countries may “be subject to certain ued to ensure that all convicted traffickers Both men and women from Estonia are sectors in Russia and Belarus,” it said. sanctions, whereby the US government may were appropriately sentenced and that those also “subjected to conditions of forced labor” The State Department also reprimanded withhold or withdraw non-humanitarian, non- sentences were enforced. in Spain, Sweden, Norway and Finland, Russia once again. trade-related foreign assistance,” the State In March, the government enacted amend - according to the 2011 Global Trafficking in Citing the Migration Research Center, it Department said. ments to the Criminal Code that further Persons Report. said around one million people in Russia are The State Department’s report character - strengthened its anti-trafficking statutes. “The government of Estonia does not fully exploited by business leaders who withhold ized Armenia as a source country for women However, of particular concern was a precipi - comply with the minimum standards for the their documents, fail to pay for services, phys - and girls subjected to sex trafficking, as well tous drop in the number of victims identified elimination of trafficking; however, it is mak - ically abuse them and deny them proper liv - as a source and destination country for during the year, as well as the absence of ing significant efforts to do so,” the report ing conditions. women subjected to forced labor and a source investigations of forced labor offenses. said. Abuses occurred in the construction, man - country for men subjected to forced labor. “Despite these efforts, the government did ufacturing, agriculture and domestic services “Women and girls from Armenia are sub - (PanArmenian.net contributed to this not demonstrate evidence of increasing industries, it added. jected to sex trafficking in Germany, the report.)

Opposition Lawmakers in Turkey Boycott Swearing-in Ceremony

ISTANBUL (CNN) — Opposition boycotts Tuesday’s session. $UPHQLDQ+HULWDJH3DUN marred the swearing-in ceremony of Turkey’s They protested a decision by Turkey’s elec - newly-elected parliament on Tuesday. toral board last week, which disqualified 2QWKH5RVH)LW]JHUDOG.HQQHG\*UHHQZD\%RVWRQ The contentious session took place less Kurdish candidate Hatip Dicle for “not meet - than three weeks after Turkey’s incumbent ing the requirements for being elected into Justice and Development Party (AKP) won a parliament.” resounding victory in national elections. The board cited Dicle’s 20-month prison Led by two-term Prime Minister Recep sentence after he was convicted of “making Tayyip Erdogan, the party captured 327 seats propaganda for a terrorist organization,” in the 550-member body. Turkish official-speak for the separatist rebel But the main Kurdish nationalist party and group known as the Kurdistan Workers’ the largest secularist opposition party both Party, or PKK. objected after they saw several of their newly The electoral board replaced the disquali - elected candidates barred from entering par - fied Kurdish candidate with the runner-up, a liament. member of the ruling political party. The More than 30 lawmakers from the Kurdish replacement AKP candidate was sworn into Peace and Democracy Party (BDP) boycotted parliament on Tuesday.

Mother See: Georgian Church Is Intolerant

ECHMIADZIN (a1plus.am) — At a press Georgia, however, he regretted to mention conference this week, Bishop Arshak that the Georgian Church’s recent intoler - Khachatryan, head of the divan of the ance toward other churches and religious Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, said that the organizations impedes the speedy solution to Cahtolicos of All Armenians Karekin II existing issues facing the sister churches to a respects the age and experience of Georgian certain extent. Patriarch Ilya. The comment was in response According to him, the Mother See does not to the Georgian’s suggestion that Karekin II object the granting of legal status to the was too inexperienced to conduct diplomacy. Georgian Church by following the example of He had said, Karekin II is “an inexperi - other religious organizations registered in enced youth who rushes to get everything.” Armenia. The clergyman says Georgia is Overall, Khachatryan gave a positive obliged to do its part by showing the same assessment of the supreme patriarch’s five- attitude toward the Georgian-Armenian com - day inter-ecclesiastical and pontifical visit to munity and the church diocese.

C Tellalian Associates Architects & Planners, LLC. For Your Internal News of Armenia under construction Log on to Sponsorship/Naming Opportunities DONATE James Kalustian 781 777.2407 online: www.ArmenianHeritagePark.net Charles Guleserian 617 484.6100 Haig Deranian 617 489.2215 check: Armenian Heritage Foundation www.AZG.am Walter Nahabedian 781 891.7249 25 Flanders Road Dr. Jack Kasarjian 617 232.6350 Belmont, MA 02478 In English, Armenian, Russian and Turkish S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 Community Ne ws

Genocide Bike-a-thon Studies Focus of Raises Money New Institute For Children By Sarah Platanitis In Armenia AMHERST, Mass. (The Republican) — In April 2009, the traveling exhibit of “A Reason to Remember: Roth Germany, 1933-1942” made By Nancy Kalajian its way to the Herter Gallery at the University Special to the Mirror-Spectator of Massachusetts-Amherst. Two years later, the teacher exhibition is a QUINCY, Mass. — On Memorial Day weekend, permanent fixture at the university’s Institute Isabella Boyajian, 3, sat in a borrowed trailer for Holocaust, Genocide, and Memory Studies attached to her dad’s bike and rode from that officially opened in late March at 758 Cambridge to Lexington on the Minuteman North Main St. Bike Path, all to benefit her peers in Armenia. The institute space includes an audio-visual Joining them were a dozen other bikers, many equipped exhibition hall, program office and of whom have made repeated annual rides to research library where it is hoped researchers support the Nish Boyajian Memorial and visitors will be able to learn from the past Foundation whose mission is to help the chil - to prevent future genocide. dren of Armenia. “We opened exhibitional approval for the The Bike-a-thon was started by Richard institute in Fall 2009 and raised money through Boyajian of Quincy, a retired barber, nine years private donations and gifts,” said James Young, ago in memory of his brother, Nish, who died the institute’s director and distinguished uni - about 16 years ago from cancer. Since 2000, versity professor whose specialty is the Boyajian has raised money for playgrounds and Holocaust and memory studies. other school-related projects in Armenia, with a “Two generous founder families in focus on rural schools. Springfield and Washington DC have given Sharing some patriotic songs and getting some help from older students, the youngest children from Holy Trinity help set the mood for the Armenian Nursing After the Bike-a-thon, bikers and other sup - gifts for endowment and operating expenses. A Center residents porters attended a traditional Armenian BBQ friend of the project and local philanthropist held at the home of Richard Boyajian near bought the house outright and put it into a pri - Wollaston Beach. About 100 people stopped by vate, non-profit foundation and rents it to us for throughout the afternoon to enjoy the BBQ $1 a year.” Deborah Roth-Howe, of Amherst, the daugh - Garden Creates Special NANCY KALAJIAN PHOTO ter of Roth-native Herbert Roth, was instru - mental in creating “A Reason to Remember,” which was housed at the Hatikvah Holocaust Connection between Education Center, from 2004 to the center’s closing in September 2010, on the campus of the Springfield Jewish Community Center. Nursing Home Residents, Roth, was a small village of 500 residents, about a quarter of whom were Jews, when Holy Trinity Kids Adolph Hitler became Germany’s chancellor in 1933. JAMAICA PLAIN, Mass. — There is a rose garden at the Armenian Nursing The exhibit tells in detail through original and Rehabilitation Center (ANRC) and the Sunday School and Armenian artifacts, photos and documents, the destruc - School children at the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church in Cambridge tion of its Jewish community during the Nazi are primarily responsible for this gift to the center. era. For almost 40 years, the children of Holy Trinity Sunday and Armenian The Hatikvah center whose last executive Schools have visited the Nursing Center and donated rose bushes in honor of director, Rabbi Robert Sternberg, was instru - the residents and staff. Seta Buchter, the superintendent of the Sunday Douglas Boyajian and daughter Isabella after mental in developing curriculum, programs and School for the past 25 years, is excited about this annual tradition, which is the bike ride tours around the center’s resources, was under also a mandatory part of the Sunday School and Armenian school curricu - the umbrella of the Jewish Federation of lums. “It is important for our students to stay connected with the elderly at Greater Springfield. the Nursing Center,” she says, “we need to honor and respect them since they and support the cause. “It’s a great community “The Hatikvah Center approached the uni - paved the way for our generation and should not be forgotten.” activity and a great cause,” said Houry versity and asked if they would be interested in When this tradition was started almost 40 years ago, students presented a Youssoufian, a guest who has long supported housing the permanent exhibit,” Young said. program and were given juice and cookies before their departure. Twenty the group’s mission. So far, more than $5,000 “They felt it was time it had a new life.” years ago, the parents and teachers from Holy Trinity expanded this tradition has been raised after this year’s bike-a thon. Lara Curtis, the institute’s assistant director, to also include a cookout. Students recite poetry and sing religious and patri - “I ride every year and usually get my friends said she was a doctorate student at the university otic songs. The children make an effort to engage the residents. Following the to join me. It’s a very reasonable bike ride. My when she approached Young about the project. program, these students have a “meet and greet,” where they introduce them - uncle’s been doing it for years. Some of my Others consulted about the possibility of an selves to the residents and try to learn about their lives and their stories. The cousins race to support my uncle and what he institute dealing with the Holocaust and geno - older students also help the younger ones interact with the residents, so that believes in,” shared Melissa Boyajian, hailing cide were Donald Maddox, professor emeritus they, in turn, will learn the leadership and communication skills that Buchter from the Lowell area. “I’ve been to Armenia of French studies, and Dean Joel Martin of the feels is important. three times; two times was with my uncle so College of Humanities and Fine Arts. “Our students develop a relationship with God and our church, and it helps I’ve helped him with this project as videogra - Organizers said Michael F. Malone, vice chan - make religion relevant to our children through practical, not theoretical pher (documenting the) before and after, and cellor of research and engagement, gave his means,” said Buchter. “We try to emphasize the importance of God, family and made a promotional video for the Foundation. approval if those involved could raise the Church and we try to raise the sensitivity level of our youth. We are so fortu - The foundation is getting bigger and bigger money for a site location. nate to have our Parish Council, our parishioners and our pastor, morally and every year. They really needed the help, with Curtis, Young and Hatikvah center members financially supportive all the way.” bad plumbing and terrible classroom facilities.” were said to have walked through many poten - Rev. Vasken Kouzouian, pastor of Holy Trinity, is committed to the ANRC During the BBQ, Douglas Boyajian, Richard’s tial houses before finding the former site of the and celebrates liturgical services for the residents and staff on a regular basis. nephew, said this was his young daughter’s sec - Episcopalian Diocese of Western Massachusetts “The work of the Nursing Center is a continuation of our church’s work,” ond race, the first being when she was 6 in March of last year. reflected Kouzouian. “We are taking care of Armenian seniors and needy mem - month’s old. This time “she wanted to ride her Those involved said they easily envisioned bers of our community; it is part of our Armenian identity and where our faith own bike” to help. “This is something we look space after renovation work at the site for the and heritage come together.” forward to every Memorial Day Weekend,” he installation of the Roth exhibit. This year, more than 55 students, their families and teachers attended this said. “We don’t have enough exposure to the “It was uninstalled, packed, moved and re- event, held on Sunday, May 22. Alexis, a first-grade student at the Holy Trinity Armenian culture, music and food so this event installed in November,” said Curtis of the exhibit. Sunday School, perhaps said it best: “The residents look at the children and gives us that opportunity.” “James and I are very grateful to the Jewish remember when they were that age.” Of course, no traditional Armenian BBQ Federation of Western Massachusetts for their For more information, visit ANRC at www.armenianhome.org. would be complete without some good old-fash - gift.” — Lalig Musserian ioned Armenian music and many talented musi - The exhibition room will also house pho - cians donated their talents to the delight of the tographs from Young’s work, “The Texture of audience including Garo Papazian, Harrry see UMASS, page 7 see BIKE-A-THON, page 9 6 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR OBITUARY Marguerite Amirian, 100, NAASR Founder BROOKLINE, Mass. — Marguerite Amirian, She attended Roxbury Memorial High her husband’s involvement in the Armenian wife of noted structural engineer and Armenian School for Girls, graduating in 1929. After grad - community and their home was an open house. community leader, Thomas T. Amirian, died on uation, she worked for an insurance company, When he and two of his ASA friends founded May 25 at the age of 100. She was living in her then as a secretary for a lawyer. When the the National Association for Armenian Studies home in Brookline until her hospitalization two Depression affected the lawyer’s business she and Research (NAASR), she became one of the weeks before her death. helped him get a WPA job and she went to work founding members. She was born in Lynn, the first of four chil - for Dr. Golden as a dental assistant. Tom Amirian died in 1993, after 51 years of dren of Melkon and Satenig Noroian, both She met her husband at a Boston branch marriage. Her sister Lily died two years later. immigrants from Kharpert, Armenia. A sister, meeting of the Armenian Students’ Association Marguerite Amirian was known for her mem - Lily, was born one-and-a-half years later, and a (ASA). Thomas, or Tzolag as he was known to ory of family history and stories of the old days. brother, Krikor, four years later. Tragically, he everyone in those days, was already very active She also amazed people with her health, died after being accidentally scalded. His death in the organization. After his graduation from because at the age of 92, she had not been to a left an indelible impression on 8-year-old Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he made doctor in 50 years. However, at the age of 94, Marguerite. it known that his intentions were serious, but she had an episode of some unknown cause When Marguerite was 3, the family moved to that he needed time, because, having lost his that led to a hospitalization and then to rehab Shawmut Avenue in Boston, where her father father during the Genocide, he was supporting to regain her strength. She came home from opened up a grocery store. The family was his mother and putting his younger brother rehab walking again, but she had lost those pre - Marguerite Amirian involved in the establishment of the Holy through college. Marguerite was in no hurry; cious memories and from then on needed to be Trinity Armenian Church on Shawmut Avenue, she was attending Portia Law School at night. taken care of by family members. the first Armenian church in Greater Boston. As soon as his brother graduated college, However, in September she fell and broke her Krekorian. One brother, Gerald Norian, prede - She proudly talked about how she met General Tzolag Amirian presented her with an engage - hip. Although her heart was strong enough to ceased her, in addition to her husband and sis - Antranig there when he was visiting on a fund- ment ring and they married the following undergo a reparative operation, and she was ter. raising mission for the defense of Armenia. September. As it was wartime, in October walking again in the rehabilitation program, Funeral services were held Wednesday, June The family eventually settled in Dorchester. Tzolag Amirian was sent away from Boston to she no longer had the strength to walk safely. 1, at the Holy Trinity Armenian Church in When Marguerite was 16, her mother had work on the Manhattan Project. Marguerite Her lack of mobility led to a decline of health Cambridge. Burial was in Mt. Auburn Cemetery another son. He was named Krikor after the Amirian stayed behind to help her sister pre - over the last six months, until she was hospital - in Cambridge in the family plot. first son, but was known as Jerry, or Gerald. pare for her wedding. When his part of the pro - ized three weeks ago with aspiration pneumo - Expressions of sympathy may be made in her Unfortunately, her father became blind from ject was finished they settled in the Fenway nia. honor to the Holy Trinity Armenian Church, glaucoma that same year. Her mother had to go area of Boston. They had two children, Thomas She was one week away from her 101st birth - 145 Brattle St., Cambridge, the Armenian to work and Marguerite, her sister, Lily, and Tzolag Amirian Jr. and Adrianne. day. Students’ Association, 333 Atlantic Ave., their grandmother took care of the baby. Marguerite Amirian was always supportive of In addition to her two children, Thomas T. Warwick, R.I. 02888 or the National Amirian, Jr. of Brookline and Adrianne Amirian, Association for Armenian Studies and of Watertown, she leaves her three nephews, Research, 395 Concord Ave, Belmont, MA Dr. Vahaken Ohannes Tachdjian Ronald Krekorian, Russell Krekorian and Roger 02478.

WYNNEWOOD, Penn. — Dr. Vahaken Commissioner of Medical Education (from Telephone (617) 924-7400 Tachdjian, a noted doctor, who in addition to 1996) and was given the Key to Philadelphia by practicing medicine, wrote several volumes, then-Mayor Frank Rizzo. died on June 11, at home. Tachdjian’s efforts on behalf of Armenians Aram Bedrosian Tachdjian was born in Ourfa, Turkey, on extended beyond the medical field. He was one February 28, 1921, to Ohannes and Shoushan of the founding members of the Armenian- Funeral Home, Inc. Tachdjian, the oldest of six children. Since he American Medical and Dental Association was born in the years immediately following the (AAMDA) here and abroad and served as presi - Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 Genocide, he and his family suffered from the dent. He was a participant in the Inter- MARION BEDROSIAN consequences of deportation and upheaval. By Communal Committee of Philadelphia, which 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET 1922, the family had moved to Beirut, Lebanon sponsors events at the five local Armenian PAUL BEDROSIAN and become the owners of Oriental Rug churches. The Inter-Communal Committee part - WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN Company. nered with the Armenian Missionary Tachdjian attended high school at the Association of America to present Tachdjian Armenian Evangelical College in the western with a special award for his ecumenical service. part of the city, The Catholicos Aram I of the Great House of and then the Cilicia also named him as a Knight of Cilicia in American April 2004. At one time he was also president of University of the Association of Armenian Doctors of the GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E Beirut (AUB) American University of Beirut. Tachdjian was Medical School. also consulting physician to many dignitaries, James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC It was at AUB including Catholicoi Sahag Khabayan, Papken that he received Gulserian, Bedros Sarajian, Karekin Hovsepian, Funeral Counselor multiple honors Khoren Paroian, Karekin Sarkissian, Zareh 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 for his efforts, Payaslian and Vazgen Baljian. Other notables www.giragosianfuneralhome.com including the included King Faisal of Iraq, the Shah of Iran Bayard Dodge and King Ibn Saud of Saudi Arabia. Dr. Vahaken Ohannes Medal. Tachdjian For the Tachdjian family, however, it was Tachdjian was also offered Tachdjian’s design of an Oriental carpet that the opportunity brings the greatest pride. At the lowest point in to expand his Armenian history, the period following the Nardolillo Funeral Home expertise in the United States at medicine, at Genocide, Ohannes Tachdjian took in the Est. 1906 Massachusetts General Hospital in gastroen - Armenian orphans who had come to Beirut and terology, at New York University and the taught them the trade of Oriental rug making. John K. Najarian, Jr. University of Pennsylvania. He came to be well- Tachdjian, then a young man, designed a carpet Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director known as a pre-eminent internist, teaching and as a gift of thanks which the orphans at his practicing in his specialty, gastroenterology. father’s business wove in tribute to the United 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 Throughout his medical career, Tachdjian dis - States and sent during President Calvin 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 tinguished himself not only as a practicing Coolidge’s term. In the 1950s the carpet’s ori - internist, but also as a researcher, writer and gins were researched and confirmed; the carpet www.nardolillo.com assistant professor. His research can be read in now resides in the Coolidge Collection at the a now-rare edition of the encyclopedic textbook Forbes Library in Northampton, Mass. on gastroenterology. Other research can be An indefatigable servant of the people, found in the Journal of the National Academy Tachdjian retired from active medical practice of Sciences and he was named as author of in 2007. His health declined in recent years and many other articles in scientific journals. His on June 11, Tachdjian died at his home. professional memberships and associations He is survived by his wife of 67 years, were numerous, including Bockus International Asdghik (Der Bedrossian); daughters Ashkhen - Society of Gastroenterology, founded at the Setrakian and her husband, Aram, Houry, University of Pennsylvania. Tachdjian and oth - Maral Tekirian and her husband, Steven; five ers recognized the importance of having a grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, as forum for Armenian doctors and he was instru - well as by a brother, Ishkhan Tachdjian, San mental in establishing the work of the Francisco, Calif.; a sister, Mary Henne, PhD, Armenian Medical International Committee Columbus, Ohio; two brothers and one sister (AMIC), for which he served as its first presi - predeceased him. dent at its formation in Montreal in 1990. AMIC The family requests that gifts in lieu of flow - began to sponsor the fledgling Armenian ers be made to the Armenian Martyrs’ Medical World Congress and Tachdjian was Congregational Church (AMCC), or to the named its honorary president. Armenian Sisters’ Academy in Radnor toward a In Pennsylvania, he was named Doctor of the special scholarship fund established in Year (2002), was the Commonwealth’s Tachdjian’s name. S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS

Heating the Cold War: Cambridge-Yerevan Rev. Boynerian Sister City Celebrates 25th Anniversary Receives Doctorate NEWTON, Mass. — The Armenian CAMBRIDGE — At the May 11 annual meeting and foreign cities. In the early 1980s, there was The group made the trip in late May 1986. Memorial Church of Watertown’s pastor, of the Cambridge-Yerevan Sister City Association only a handful of US-Soviet sister cities, and mid- Duehay continued, “Here we are in Moscow. We Rev. Avedis Boynerian, was awarded a (CYSCA), former mayor and longtime city coun - 1980s Cambridge became one of the first of a were told we were going in to the office of the doctorate of ministry from Andover cilor, Frank Duehay, recounted the origins of the newly-approved round of partnerships. head person who establishes Sister City relation - Newton Theological School on May 21. association, which was founded 25 years ago. Duehay recalled “I got involved because I had ships. The first thing we presented was the bound Andover Newton is the oldest theological He described the roots of the project in the just been mayor and the current mayor, (Walter volume of support letters. The first one was from seminary in the country. Cold War. When President Ronald Reagan came Sullivan) thought I would be a good one to lead member of the US House of Representative Tip Boynerian earned this degree in a program into office, the Cambridge City Council reacted to the first delegation. Although the delegation was O’Neill, the second from Sen. Ted Kennedy. I designed for ministers who have been serv - his bellicosity towards the Soviet Union by initiat - think that made an impression: showing that we ing a church for a period of seven to 10 years. ELSA RONNINGSTAM PHOTO ing a search for a sister-city somewhere in the were in the business of trying to improve relation - He completed the program in five years while Soviet Union, as a vehicle for citizen-to-citizen con - ships — in our own tiny way to thaw the ice serving the church full time. After complet - tact and discussion. In 1982 the Cambridge City between both countries. There was of course a ing the nine-course program, he wrote a dis - Council created the Cambridge Commission on great deal of suspicion — not only there but in our sertation, titled “Whose Church Is It?,” Nuclear Disarmament and Peace Education, country too. They listened to us, liked what we focused on the challenges of the Armenian thereafter known as the Peace Commission, with said, but when we left the next day we were on the Evangelical Church in North America empha - a small budget and staff, which was given the man - way to Yerevan, and I realized we knew nothing — sizing solutions and the role of leadership. date (among many others) to find such a city. didn’t know what we would be doing.” He recount - The dissertation received high honors. A committee formed by the Peace Commission ed an amusing incident. “I realized I might have to His studies were made possible by a researched several cities and settled on Yerevan, say something formal. When the plane came in bequest from the late since there was an Armenian-American commu - there was a crowd of hundreds of people and I Dr. Edward and Lucy nity in Cambridge and adjoining towns in which thought ‘I’ve got to get on my toes for this one.’ Karian of Watertown, individuals were already traveling back and forth. But everyone got out of the plane and it turned who were members of In addition, it became apparent there would not out the crowd was there for a bunch of rock stars the church. have been a supportive political climate in which who were on our plane!” He holds a bache - to choose among cities in various other “But soon we encountered the people who lor’s from Haigazian College (now republics. were there to meet us, including the vice mayor, Rev. Avedis Frank Duehay addresses CYSCA’s Annual University) in Beirut, At the time it was unclear what the reception Meeting. who was grinning ear to ear. They were delight - Boynerian in Cambridge would be, but a great deal of pro - ed to greet us and had an incredible itinerary Lebanon, a master’s in gramming was done in advance to introduce planned with meetings and visits to cultural or theology from the Cambridge citizens to culture in the Soviet really originally a grassroots group, the council social sites throughout Yerevan. It was a won - Near East School of Theology in Beirut Union, and once Yerevan was chosen, to encour - had to vote on it and approve it and designate an derful introduction to those (most of us) in the and Princeton Theological Seminary in age children in Cambridge schools to write let - elected official to lead it.” He recalled with some delegation that were not of Armenian back - New Jersey. He has held numerous lead - ters and make art to share with students there. amusement, “The delegation had to accept me.” ground. We were stunned at what we saw and ership roles in the Armenian Protestant Letters of support were obtained from a huge An 11-person delegation was formed, with Peace who we met. It was incredible, almost a life-chang - Community in Syria, where he was pastor range of city organizations and officials and insti - Commission Director Jeb Brugmann and other ing experience for all of us.” for 16 years in Aleppo. tutions, which were then taken in a thick bound commission members playing major organizing Duehay said he particularly remembered visit - Boynerian has been pastor of the book with this first delegation. Duehay noted roles. Duehay recalled, “We wrote the committee ing Yerevan State University. “There was a huge Armenian Memorial Church since that “This whole initiative really came from a who had to approve this venture in Moscow and crowd of people there to meet us in the audito - October 2003. He served as president of large number of activists — really kind of a grass - got no answer. Finally, a prominent journalist rium. It was my job to explain why we were there the Watertown Ministerial Association roots movement.” and MP from Yerevan who was here doing — why our City Council and our community from 2005 to 2006. He has held numer - Supporting the idea was Eisenhower’s initiative research met with us and said, ‘You have just got seemed to want to reach out to Yerevan. I did it ous positions in the Armenian in 1956 to promote many sister-cities between US to go. I’ll help you anyway I know of.’” to the best of my ability. They seemed quite inter - Evangelical Union of North America ested — then all of a sudden I thought I would do (AEUNA) including chair of the Ministry something. There was only one way out of the Committee from 2006-2008, member of auditorium: when I got finished speaking, I stood the Board of Directors from 2006-2010 by the door and shook every hand of every per - and moderator from 2008-2010. In addi - Metropol-Residence son as they left the room. Some knew English, tion he has broadcast Armenian sermons on the Armenian Independent Radio of 2 Mashtots Ave. Yerevan. Armenia so we had a chance to chat and one young man Ideal for Family vacations said to me, ‘Are you going to be president?’ A lot Boston from 2004 through the present, Daily, weekly and monthly low rates, starting $65.00 per day/ residence of college and graduate students didn’t know as well as co-authoring a book and pub - The four star residences at the heart of Yerevan with a kithcen and private bathroom is an much about this country. It was really striking lishing several articles. ideal place to stay for families and couples. This luxurious residence is convenient for what- how we ran into friendliness and hospitality Boynerian lives in Belmont with his everywhere.” wife, Dr. Arpi Pamboukian, and their two ever purpose your visit is. Summing up, he said, “The accomplishments sons, Antranig, 12, and Arek, 10. He of the sister city committee are really quite extra - played soccer with Homenetmen, a first ordinary, and I know it’s not easy for non-profits division Armenian soccer team in Beirut, to do these things. It’s the enormous amount of Lebanon, from 1977-1981 and co-coached time that people have put into it. And it doesn’t the Belmont second soccer team in the end — the wonderful Community Connections 2004-2005 season. programs that are going on, helping schools — what you’ve spent money on. This is what the sister-city thing is all about. Genocide Studies Focus of Who knows who is affected by these university administrators who visited last fall? This is the New Institute people-to-people thing at its very best. UMASS, from page 5 Memory” and smaller exhibits of freestanding walls. The first planned temporary exhibit will be from The Haiti Jewish Refugee Legacy Project, chronicling the little-known story of Jewish refugees taken in by the Haitian government during World War II and how their families Reservations in English please call Sevag at 011-374-93211217 later raised money after the 2010 earthquake Reservations in Armenian please call Onnig at 011-374-94435445 to repay their gratitude. Young has given his 5,000-book library and thou - sands of photographs to the institute that has also received the book donations from other sources. Donations of furniture and other necessities will allow graduate students to travel and stay at the institute while they do research. “We want all middle and high school groups to visit because there is no exhibit like this anywhere. It is community based with universal teaching pos - sibilities,” said Curtis, who is building a Holocaust curriculum for the state of Massachusetts and edu - cational programs for visiting groups. Entertainment Fridays “The extraordinary part of this whole project is being able to work with so many different pro - and Saturdays grams, departments at the university and the community,” Curtis said. “Seeing how Holocaust, genocide and memory studies cross discipline and converge in these dif - ferent places is what makes this so special for me.” 8 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS

Armenian Assembly Interns Armenian Assembly Thanks McCotter as Arrive in Washington Momentum on Genocide Resolution Grows

WASHINGTON — Now in its 34th year, The The Terjenian-Thomas Assembly Internship Terjenian-Thomas Assembly Internship Program is made possible by the Memorial Program welcomed 20 college-aged students Fund established by Aram Terjenian, Annie hailing from seven US states as well as Thomas and Florence Terjenian of Belmont, Armenia, Canada and the United Kingdom. Mass. Additional support comes from the Richard Tufenkian Memorial Fund, the John Hanessian Scholarship Fund, the Armen Astarjian Scholarship Fund, the Ohanian Memorial Fund, James and Connie Melikian and the Knights of Vartan. This year Giselle Davidian is the recipient of the Richard Tufenkian Memorial Fund scholar - ship, while Sonya Babayan and Yelena Mayilyan received scholarships from James and Connie Melikian. The 2011 Knights of Vartan scholar - From left, Raffi Nersessian, Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI), Taniel Koushakjian and Bryan Ardouny ship awardee is Michael Daniell. Participants are gearing up for an active summer schedule of meetings, lectures and events that has already included: Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA); guest WASHINGTON — This week, Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, Grassroots Director lecturer Kathryn Porter, president of the Taniel Koushakjian and Wayne State University student and Government Affairs intern Raffi Leadership Council for Human Rights; Bryan Nersessian of the Armenian Assembly of America thanked Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI) Ardouny, executive director of the Armenian for his renewed support of the Armenian Genocide resolution. Assembly; Taniel Koushakjian, the Assembly’s Meeting in his House Rayburn office, McCotter told the Assembly that the Armenian- American community can “continue relying upon my steadfast support.” First elected in Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) and Giselle Davidian grassroots director and Dr. Rouben Adalian, direc - tor of the Armenian National Institute. 2002, McCotter represents the 11th Congressional District in Michigan and currently serves “The Terjenian-Thomas Assembly Internship on the House Financial Services Committee. “We appreciate Congressman McCotter’s standing commitment in support of Armenian- They join the ranks of more than 900 alumni Program has been outstanding in providing its American issues,” stated Ardouny. and will spend the summer living, learning and interns a demanding mix of a professional work - “It was an honor to meet Congressman McCotter,” added Nersessian. working here. place experience, an intellectual challenge, aca - Also this week, a dozen members of Congress on a bipartisan basis joined as cosponsors of H.Res. 304, the Armenian Genocide Resolution introduced by Representatives Robert Dold (R-IL) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) along with Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Ed Royce (R-CA). The newest cosponsors to the bill include: Representatives Karen Bass (D-CA), Robert Brady (D-PA), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Dennis Cardoza (D-CA), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Bob Filner (D-CA), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Steve Israel (D-NY), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Edward Markey (D- MA), Ed Perlmutter (D-CO) and Jared Polis (D-CO).

demic seminars, and social events,” said academics and professionals speaking on a Davidian, who is particularly excited about all range of topics from current events to issues of of the upcoming educational opportunities and community interest will fill out the summer events. “I am truly relishing the unique oppor - schedule. tunity to interact with key figures influencing Ardouny noted the success of the internship our global future and to foster what will program. “For more than three decades, with inevitably become lifelong friendships with more than 900 college-aged students from vir - bright fellow interns.” tually every state and eight countries, the In addition, Representatives Ed Royce (R-CA) Terjenian-Thomas Assembly’s Internship and Brad Sherman (D-CA) will kick off this sum - Program in Washington has cultivated the next mer’s Capital Ideas Lecture Series. Interns will generation of leaders. The Assembly’s pioneer - also tour the White House, US Department of ing internships represent one of the organiza - Terjenian-Thomas Assembly Interns with Kathryn Porter, president of the Leadership Council for State, Library of Congress, US Bureau of tion’s flagship programs that would not have Human Rights (center) Engraving and Printing and the Armenian been possible without the generosity and sup - Embassy. Additional presentations from local port of our donors and members.” Graduation Ceremonies Held at St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School

WATERTOWN, Mass. — In June, St. sented the theme with poems, songs, dance and Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School drama followed by a video presentation of the (SSAES) concluded its 27th academic year. fifth-grade trip to Armenia coordinated by Graduation ceremonies were held on June 16 Armenian teacher Ardemis Megerdichian. for kindergarten students and June 17 for ele - After the presentation of the diplomas the fol - mentary students in the presence of parents lowing awards were given: and friends of the school as well as the pastors Awards for Excellence in Armenian Studies of St. Stephen’s, First Armenian, Armenian from the Prelacy went to Prelacy Award: Mary Memorial and St. James churches. Galstian, Liana Nalbandian, Rita Orchanian, On June 17, 12 students graduated from Sonia Ourfalian, Anoush Krafian and George SSAES. They are: Sena Changelian, Sepahn Yeghyayan; Armenian Relief Society Award, Chiloyan, Mary Galstian, Anastasia Rubina Vosbigian; St. Stephen’s School Award, Goulopoulos, Saro Karaguesian, Anoush Sepahn Chiloyan and Daniela Rizza; St. Krafian, Liana Nalbandian, Rita Orchanian, Stephen’s Education Committee Award: Saro Sonia Ourfalian, Daniela Rizza, Rubina Karaguesian; Certificate of Recognition for Vosbigian and George Yeghyayan. Interest in Armenian History, Anastasia On June 16, 24 students graduated from Grades 4 and 5 students perform on Graduation Night. (Mardo Kevorkian photo) Goulopoulos; Certificate of Recognition in Kindergarten. They are: Taleena Anserlian, Armenian Heritage, Sena Changelian; Taline Antoine, Chris Ashjian, Haig Atinizian, Presidential Award for Academic Excellence, Nicole Babyan, Alexa Balian, Alec DerSirakian, Basic Skills. This year, students in the fourth During the elementary program, Boyamian hon - Anastasia Goulopoulos, Liana Nalbandian and Vanessa Goebel, Sophia Goulopoulos, Alique grade scored in the top 12 percent nationwide in ored with a special plaque Krista Aslanian, who has Rita Orchanian; Presidential Award for Haserjian, Sophia Kahvejian, Vana language skills and in the top 24 percent in math - been one of the school’s staunchest supporters Academic Achievement, Mary Galstian, Anoush Karaguesian, Hovanes Kehyeian, Levon ematics. Students in the second grade scored in since 1995. Aslanian has wholeheartedly donated Krafian and Saro Karaguesian; Citizenship Markosyan, Alexander Nalbandyan, Andrew the top 23 percent in reading and in the top 15 her time serving as a member and then as chair of Award, Sonia Ourfalian and Rubina Vosbigian; Sarkisssian, Philip Sarkissian, , Robert percent in math computation. the Education Committee. Nishan and Arshalouys Najarian Scholarship Sohigian, Sevan Soukiasian, Aris Stefanis, Boyamian thanked the faculty, the administra - The preschool director, Maral Orchanian, had ($200 each) for interest in music, Sanan Alique Stepanian, Sevana Stepanian, tive staff, the PTO, parent volunteers, the school chosen the theme of “community helpers” for Maroukhian; for Interest in the Arts and Music, Benjamain Surenian and Izabell Tenekedzhyan. board and committees, St. Stephen’s Church the younger students’ program. Through song Narek Sahakian, Sam Sagherian and Karyl On both days, the principal, Houry Boyamian, board of trustees, Rev. Archpriest Antranig and dance they paid tribute to various profes - Ashjian; ARS Essay Contest, Anoush Krafian; focused on the school’s recent achievements, Baljian, Rev. Karekine Bedourian, as well as all sions serving the community. Perfect Attendance Award, Vanessa Goebel (K), especially the graduating class trip to Armenia the organizations and individuals that contribute The elementary program was dedicated to Shant Karamousayan (Gr. 2), Ara Changelian and the results of the Comprehensive Test of to the advancement of the school. the Armenian Child. Elementary students pre - (Gr. 3), Sena Changelian (Gr. 5). S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Bike-a-thon Raises Money for Children in Armenia

NANCY KALAJIAN PHOTO BIKE-A-THON, from page 5 Papazian, Mal Barsamian, John Berberian, Hagop Garabedian, Joe Kouyoumjian, Mike Gregian, Costa Maniatakos, Richard Boyajian and Gregory Smyrlian. Some other musicians and guests couldn’t resist, and grabbing a spare dumbeg, tambourine or oud, joined in on the musical fun. Others danced Armenian style, encouraging other guests to join their snake- like line. And it wasn’t just Armenians enjoying the BBQ. Majid Bensellam, originally from Morocco but now residing in Boston, has been a friend of Richard Boyajian for 16 years. “I am sympa - thetic to this cause. It was a pleasure to do the bike ride early in the morning,” declared Bensellam. Echoing the sentiment was Nancy St. John of Cohasset. “We think what he is doing is great and we like to support it.” She heard about the benefit event through her husband, who makes flags, including ones representing Armenia. Boyajian thinks of every little detail in plan - ning for the annual event. Indeed, he even goes to a local farm in the western suburbs to pro - cure meat so that’s it’s freshly killed “like you’d find in Armenia,” he says. Boyajian not only pre - pares his home and outside yard for the days leading up to the event, but procures and cooks Guests enjoy sitting in the garden. much of the food served at the post-ride BBQ. Twenty-four hours before the event finds Boyajian with a volunteer team making dozens capital of Armenia, “Deagin Frina, the archaeol - the Foundation has raised around $25,000 for Boyajian, “It transcends nationalities. It’s just of yalanchi . Then there is a huge salad to put ogist, asked me, Peggy Hovanissian, a member of this Hnaberd project. The building, named the human beings helping other human beings with together as well. The next day, the finished my Board of Directors, and her dad to meet the Mary Boyajian Parechanian Kindergarten, is in their needs.” Some of the quilts were displayed products are brought outside and laid out on a mayor of a nearby bordering village. The mayor memory of Boyajian’s late mother. The sign on and admired by guests at the BBQ. long table next to the hugest, deepest platter of said, ‘We don’t need a playground. We need help the playground acknowledges the donation by Besides helping across the Atlantic, the foun - the Nish Boyajian Memorial Foundation for its dation has also worked to help children locally. NANCY KALAJIAN PHOTO creation. Through contact with Precision Fitness’s CEO All the monetary donations received go David Aykanian, a life cycle was donated for use directly to each project. Boyajian himself pays by children attending the Abaka Armenian for his plane fare and hotels. School for Performing Arts. Apo Ashjian, For this summer’s trip to Armenia, Boyajian Abaka’s founder, was grateful for the gift as it will take quilts made by a group of senior volun - helps the dancers prevent injury. teers from the Beech Street Center in Belmont, The foundation’s website to be used by the children when they take naps. (www.boyajianmemorialfoundation.com) has “Not one of the quilters is Armenian,” said pictures of some of its projects.

Armenian Sisters’ Academy Gets Closer Look at Colonial New England

LEXINGTON, Mass. — On June 13, the Armenian Sisters’ Academy (ASA) completed its spring visiting speakers series with a presentation on colonial New England by mem - Musicians play at the BBQ. bers of the Billerica Historical Society. The elementary classes at the ASA have on many occasions read about colonial life in small New England towns, the dynamic presence of historical actors and their demon - hummus that I’ve ever seen. And of course, no with this building!’” recalls Boyajian. strations brought history to life. Armenian meal would be complete without On a future trip, Peggy Hovanissian repre - Among the demonstrations the students saw up close included an antique foot-pow - pilaf. One really busy place is the BBQ pit sented the board and oversaw the construction where chefs Ara Ghazarian and Ben Der in purchasing the materials from local sources Torosian are constantly moving, flipping and and hiring the local skilled labor to put a roof turning the meat, serving an admiring crowd. on the building, add doors and windows, Boyajian has tackled numerous projects, often remove the outhouse and redo the plumbing. playground-related, in various parts of Armenia, Half of the building is now used as a communi - including Sissian, Gumri, Zeitoun and Nor ty center, and the other half is used as a teach - Marash. The foundation’s latest project is in the ing and napping area for Kindergarten age chil - village of Hnaberd in the Ararat Valley. He said dren. Hopefully, cots, a stove, refrigerator and this is the first time they have taken on the cabinets will soon be added — essential when responsibility of rehabbing an entire building. the staff must prepare meals since the children How he found Hnaberd is the story of one con - stay there half the day and need to nap while nection leading to another. After he visited a their parents are working long hours in the treasured archaeological site at Dvin, an ancient fields and farms to earn a living. In three years,

NANCY KALAJIAN PHOTO

Volunteers from the Billerica Historical Society demonstrated tools used by Colonialists for the students of the Armenian Sisters’ Academy of Lexington.

ered toaster and candle-making tools. These demonstrations left students with a stronger sense of how past generations appreciated each and every item in their homes since in most cases these were grown, built or made by families themselves — the concept of reduce, reuse and recycle really hit home. “Students loved learning about the daily lives of children in colonial America,” stated Cathy Izzo, social studies teacher at the ASA. “After the presentation, students were able to compare their lives to children living in colonial times.” Topics covered this spring by the speakers included world geography with the EarthView Project out of Bridgewater State University; chemistry with graduate stu - dents from the MIT Department of Chemistry; classical Armenian instruments with musician Mari Bertlizian; meteorology with Chris Lambert of WHDH TV and sociology with Dr. Susan Pattie, author of Who are the Armenians? . More music entertained guests at the BBQ. 10 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Ne w York M E T R O Summer Interns Begin New Projects in Zohrab Center

further the vision of the Zohrab Center and to By Taleen Babayan make its resources more accessible to individu - als interested in Armenian studies around the world. NEW YORK — The Krikor and Clara Zohrab The interns have been tackling a range of Information Center of the Diocese of the responsibilities this summer, including cata - Armenian Church of America (Eastern) has loging books and digitizing the center’s holdings been a hub of activity in the summer weeks, as to make them available for the general public.

Jennifer Manoukian and Nicole Saglamer assist at a Zohrab Center-sponsored event.

While the interns’ contributions have indeed intern in the center for another summer. been valued in the center, they too come away “After working here for two years I am still with a newfound appreciation for Armenian lit - amazed to see the types of books I come across erary traditions and culture. while doing my work,” he said. “For me, working at the Zohrab Center has The Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information been more than a job, but rather an experience Center was founded in 1987 by Dolores Zohrab that allows me to leave work each day having Liebmann, in honor of her parents, Krikor and learned something new,” said Saglamer, a Clara. Her father, Krikor Zohrab, was a promi - sophomore studying chemistry at NYU, who is nent lawyer, author and Parliamentarian in the interning in the center for the second consecu - Ottoman Empire, who was arrested and killed tive summer. during the Armenian Genocide. In fact, it was the center’s materials on Zabel The Zohrab Center serves as a research Yesayan that created Manoukian’s ties to the library and has a rich and diverse collection Zohrab Center. While working on her thesis ripe with books relating to Armenian history, paper on the author, she found useful one-of-a- literature and religion. It also serves as a cul - kind resources for her research. tural center, hosting conferences, lectures, film “I relied heavily on the Zohrab Center’s peri - screenings and book presentations among odical collection for my project,” said many other events tailored to the local Manoukian who studied Middle Eastern studies Armenian community. and French at Rutgers University. “While doing Saglamer notes, “Interning at the center has my research, I realized how valuable and unique given me the opportunity to meet other it is to have such a vast collection of Armenian- Armenian youth and most importantly, it has language resources open to everyone.” allowed me to stay connected with my Echoing Manoukian’s sentiments, Bandikian, Armenian identity.” a senior studying information systems at Stony For more information, visit Brook University, said he felt “compelled” to www.zohrabcenter.com. Armen Bandikian organizing the Zohrab Center’s 18th- and 19th-century Armenian book collection the library’s doors have opened to its summer Last summer, with the help of the interns, the interns. center’s online catalog was launched. More The dedicated interns, including Armen than 15,000 books in the library’s collection Bandikian, Jennifer Manoukian and Nicole can now be accessed around the world by visit - E-SUBSCRIPTION Saglamer, have been working hands-on to help ing www.zohrabcentercatalog.com. AVAILABLE

AGBU Camp Nubar First Session Sold The Armenian Mirror-Spectator will be available every Out, 48th Summer Poised to Start Thursday, in COLOR and PDF format to all who subscribe specifically to this electronic delivery. CATSKILLS, N.Y. — On Saturday, July 2, table learning experience that encourages AGBU Camp Nubar’s 48th summer season will friendships and community. Omartian has been The annual rate is $50. kick off and the first session is officially sold a member of Camp Nubar for the past 18 years out. Campers from near and far are getting and her dedication and love of AGBU’s camp To subscribe to this service, please fill out the following ready for an exciting summer with fellow ensures a nurturing and fun environment for campers hailing from the United States (includ - the campers and staff. and mail it along with your check of $50 made out to the: ing New York, New Jersey and Michigan), Omartian has a strong team of head staff Canada (Montreal and Toronto), France and working together throughout the summer. Armenian Mirror-Spectator, Turkey. A handful of spots remain for the sec - Returning for his fourth year as assistant direc - ond and third session, so parents are urged to tor is Daniel Antreasyan, whose passion for 755 Mt. Auburn Street, sign up before it is too late. Camp Nubar and the Armenian community is This year, Camp Nubar will be introducing a evident year round in his work at AGBU, where Watertown, MA 02472 great addition to its Armenian Program as they he serves as the manager of the organization’s welcome two instructors from the AGBU University Outreach Program. Jackie Distasi Children’s Centers in Armenia. From July 16 to will be the waterfront director for the third sum - H Yes, Please e-mail me the Armenian Mirror-Spectator August 6, ballet master Arman Julhakyan and mer. Taking on the role of girls’ head and boys’ art instructor Ella Pepanyan will conduct class - head counselors are Tamar Merjian and Armen every Thursday. es for the youth in traditional Armenian dance, Shamamian, who together will motivate their arts, crafts and pottery. The Armenian Program staff and keep campers smiling each day. My E-mail address is ______is an integral part of Camp Nubar’s outstanding If a child is too young for camp, they can still classic activities, such as archery, ceramics, be a part of Camp Nubar. On Saturday, June 11, Name and Last name ______boating, sports, tubing, horseback riding, arts Nubar Kids enjoyed a day at Alley Pond and crafts, digital media technology, photogra - Environmental Center in Flushing, Queens. phy and much more. Twenty children, ages 1-8, took part in play You can also e-mail your request to [email protected] While Nubar staff will be arriving at the camp time, an outdoor nature hike, arts and crafts shortly, they have been hard at work on this and a bagel brunch. They were joined by Camp for faster service season’s calendar. Led by director Jennifer Nubar alumni, parents and friends. Omartian, the camp staff create an unforget - To enroll online, visit www.campnubar.org. S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 Ne w York M E T R O Kirikian Armenian School Celebrates 50 Years Students Participate in terpieces, reminding former students about their lessons of the “ayp, poo, pen.” A life-size End-of-Year Hantes cut-out board of “Ara” and “Maral” was also on display where many children posed for pho - tographs with the beloved characters. As different generations of alumni, teachers By Taleen Babayan and students gathered together, they enjoyed conversation, Armenian food and the cutting of TENAFLY, N.J. — This year the annual hantes at Kirikian Armenian School was like none other. Not only did it mark the school’s end of the year cultural program, it was also a time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school and to pay tribute to its historic past. As alumni, parents and teachers gathered on Sunday afternoon, June 13 at St. Thomas Armenian Church, they were greeted by more The graduating class of Kirikian Armenian School than 100 Armenian school students who entered Saddler Hall to the patriotic song, Garmeer, Gaboyd, Dziranakoyn . The students, places on the stage, which was flanked by two the school, with its record-high enrollment of from nursery to the seventh grade, took their large banners of every Armenian school gradu - 130 students — vowing to “double this number” ate’s favorite characters, “Ara” and in the future. She credited the teaching staff’s “Maral.” hard-work in providing quality Armenian The afternoon also paid homage instruction to the students week after week. to long-time Armenian educator Commending Capan and the teaching staff Sylva Der Stepanian, the master - for their dedicated service to the school, Very mind of the Armenian school cur - Rev. Papken V. Anoushian, pastor of St. riculum now widely used in Thomas Armenian Church, said, “they are all Armenian schools around the deserving of our applause and our respect, world, which in the 1970s intro - because they have given respect and love to our duced the popular “Ara” and church and to our school.” “Maral” characters. Serving as the “Before they leave Kirikian, our students first principal of Kirikian Armenian have to be proud of the Armenian Church, lan - School, Der Stepanian’s efforts and guage, culture, history and of our mother dedication laid a strong foundation Armenia,” he added. for educating generations of A testament to Anoushian’s words was the Armenian-Americans over the next 50th-anniversary reunion committee, whose Sarkis Jebejian, chairman of the reunion committee five decades. members had been preparing for this milestone Siblings Shahe and Katia since last year. Sarkis Jebejian, chairman of the Jebejian, emulating “Ara” and committee, said the members were proud to the celebratory cake. “Maral” in dress and character, wel - contribute to this memorable occasion. “A success of 50 years does not come to real - comed everyone to the program — “We realized that we had very important ization by itself,” said Capan. “Unity with one to much fanfare — promising an memories of our childhood here,” he said. “We single goal and working hand in hand is the afternoon of song and dance and didn’t just learn to read and write or dance secret of all success.” many other Armenian cultural ele - here. We learned to be good Armenians and to ments. be good people.” In her welcoming address, Ani He expressed his gratitude to Capan and to From left, Dr. Levon Capan, Junior Choir director and St. Capan, principal of the school for all the teachers for their continued support and Claire Kedeshian Thomas Parish Council chairman; Ani Capan, principal of the Kirikian Armenian School; Artemis Arslanian, Executive the past 25 years, said it was a mem - commitment to the school. Receives Henry L. Committee member and pianist and Very Rev. Papken V. orable day for the Kirikian “I was so proud watching a committee of for - Anoushian, pastor of St. Thomas Armenian Church Armenian School community. She mer students, full of enthusiasm, helping the noted the most-recent successes of school to organize this 50th anniversary,” Stimson Medal Capan later said. “They made us feel young again and look to the future with renewed NEW YORK — Claire S. Kedeshian, a hope.” federal prosecutor in New York, received Throughout the afternoon, each of the the 2011 Henry L. Stimson Medal from grades presented various aspects of Armenian the City Bar Association on behalf of the culture, including poem recitations, dance, song United States Attorney’s Office for the and theater. Graduation ceremonies for the Eastern District of New York, Civil kindergarten and seventh-grade classes also Division. took place. In her farewell speech, seventh- The medal is awarded annually to out - grade graduate Carla Sabbagh reflected on her standing assistant US attorneys from and her classmates’ time as students at Kirikian both the Eastern and Southern Districts Armenian School and the lessons they learned of New York, one from the Civil Division, that they would carry with them in their one from the Criminal Division, who futures. exemplify the characteristics of integrity, Another highlight of the afternoon was a fair play and superior commitment to the video presentation tracing Kirikian Armenian public good. The US Attorney’s Office for School’s history from its beginnings to present- the EDNY is one of the largest and most day, filled with footage and photographs of stu - active offices in the country and repre - dents and teachers from the past 50 years. sents the government in federal cases Following the hantes, the celebration contin - throughout New York City and Long ued in the adjacent atrium. Rose-filled vases Island. Kindergarten graduation students adorned with Armenian letters served as cen - Kedeshian is a two-time recipient of the Attorney General Director’s Award for her work on civil racketeering and interna - tional narcotics forfeiture cases. She has also been honored with the Department of Justice’s John Marshall Award for out - standing achievement in asset forfeiture. A graduate of Barnard College, Columbia University and Brooklyn Law School, Kedeshian has served as an elect - ed member of the board of directors for the Armenian Bar Association and numerous other non-profit organizations. She has been a guest lecturer to law enforcement communities and at educa - tional institutions throughout the United States, including West Point Academy, as well as internationally in Armenia, South Students performing a traditional Armenian dance during the hantes America and Mexico. 12 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Photographic Record Number of Exhibition: Greeks Young Adults at Of Armenia Aznavour Tribute

NEW YORK — The Association of Greek By Florence Avakian American Professional Women (AGAPW), under the auspices of the Greek General Consulate and Ambassador Aghi Balta, recently NEW YORK — The Fund for Armenian Relief organized a photographic show and presenta - (FAR) tribute to international legend Charles tion by Dr. Marina Mkhitaryan, titled “Greeks of Aznavour on May 20 is still very much on the Armenia: In Memory of My Mother,” on Greeks minds of many of the attendees. The banquet at of Armenia, which is dedicated to the memory the Wall Street Cipriani was unique in several of her Pontic mother and in celebration of the ways, including being one of the largest attended mothers of the Greek diaspora. The event took Armenian events ever — more than 600 present place at the Greek Consulate May 2-16. — and for the great attraction it had for young Each year AGAPW celebrates mothers of adults who attended in impressive numbers. Greek descent by featuring the body of work of “Inspired,” gushed lawyer Martha Mensoian, one artists or other professionals inspired by and of the many young professionals in attendance. dedicated to Greek mothers and mothers of the “FAR is one of the few Armenian organizations I Greek diaspora. am absolutely committed to supporting. And Aznavour is an icon, both in and outside the Born and raised in Yerevan, Armenia, to an Arax Mansourian,left, with Karen Shahgaldyan Armenian father and a Pontic-Greek mother, Armenian community. To combine the two in one event made attending a non-issue,” she commented. Melanie Dadourian, a producer of documen - taries for the Fox News Channel, and also a Khachaturian Trio strong supporter of FAR development programs, felt that “it was important to honor someone like Charles Aznavour who has given so much to Perform Outstanding Armenia.” Dadourian added that she was “espe - cially moved” that despite Aznavour’s fame, suc - cess and busy schedule, he still devotes time and Concerts in Sydney money to the Armenian people. “On that warm May evening, I walked away from Cipriani feeling so much hope and pride that the tradition of giv - SYDNEY, Australia — From their first performance as guest artists during the ing continues,” she said April 24 commemoration to two sell-out concerts at The Independent Theatre, the For Alex Topakbashian, a financial analyst, Khachaturian Trio captivated audiences with their mesmerizing performances of FAR has been the vehicle by which he and his International and Armenian masterpieces. wife, former ACYOA members, had the opportu - The members of the Khachaturian Trio are Armine Grigoryan (piano), Karen nity to travel to Armenia with the annual trip Shahgaldyan (violin) and Karen Kocharyan (cello), who are not only distinguished that FAR sponsors. While in Armenia, the virtuoso performing artists individually, but as an ensemble have managed to suc - Topakbashians “experienced firsthand the kind cessfully create an almost perfect musical trinity through interweaving their pro - of work that FAR is doing and the contributions found sense of harmony with brilliant technique and craftsmanship. it is making to the development of Armenia.” Although a trio should have only three members, the group has adopted a fourth Since then, they have felt a strong connection to member, Sona Barseghian, who is in her own right a virtuoso pianist and a laureate FAR “as the primary vehicle for making a differ - from many distinguished international competitions. Barseghian accompanies the ence in Armenia.” trio and performs with her mother, Armine Grigoryan, pieces written for two pianos He called the tribute “fabulous. The venue, the or for four hands. atmosphere and the experience were exquisite. Dr. Marina Mkhitaryan The trio’s tour of Sydney was the brainchild of Avo and Jacqueline Tevanian, who With Charles Aznavour as the honoree, who is heard the trio perform in Yerevan earlier in the year at a special concert organized quite possibly the greatest example of an Armenian she has done extensive photographic research by Assadour Guzelian. Upon hearing the Khachaturian Trio perform, Avo Tevanian individual who has an impact on a global scale, this on the Greek community in Armenia. Her col - was so inspired that he decided to sponsor their trip to Australia so they could per - was an evening we knew we would remember.” lection of archival family photos, together with form in Sydney as well. He contacted Toros Boghossian, chairman of the AGBU Topakbashian related that seeing so many peo - her own original photographs of Greek Sydney Chapter, and requested AGBU’s collaboration in organizing the trio’s tour ple at the event that he has interacted with over Armenians in their homes, communities and and concerts in Sydney. the years, he was left thinking about “how classrooms, where the Greek language is being The AGBU Special Events Team was formed in 2006 to organize events to mark Armenians can leverage the strength of our com - taught, records the community’s rich history the 100th anniversary of the founding of the AGBU. The team successfully stage- munity, and what kind of impact it would have and accomplishments, their contributions to managed the performance of Tigranian’s “Anoush” Opera, with Arax Mansourian in on Armenia, if we did.” their homeland and continuous efforts to pre - the lead role. Marine Vorperian, a criminal justice investiga - serve the Greek language and culture and con - Since then, the team has been involved in organizing many artistic and cultural tor, found the Aznavour tribute “flawless and nect to the motherland. events presented by the AGBU. magnificent. The organizers planned it to perfec - Mkhitaryan has dedicated her work to the It is rare to find a team like theirs that can successfully work together over five tion,” she said. “It was wonderful to see so many memory of her mother, Nina Lazareva years with absolute unity and camaraderie — each one of the members bringing people of all ages, attending.” (Lazaridou) and to all Greek mothers. their own special talents into the group. Since childhood, Vorperian related that she For more information, visit The members of the team are (in alphabetical order) Sylvia Aghabekian, Lucy has been a “great fan” of Aznavour’s music. “I www.greeksofarmenia.com. Aroyan, Nora Bastajian, Tatar Bedikian and Sylvia Jamcotchian. The team was ably have always found him inspirational, and have supported by members of the AGBU Executive Committee: Arto Karagelinian, loved the passion and energy he puts into his Hovhaness Kouyoumdjian, Dikran Dikranian and Sarkis Manoukian with the lead - performances. He is second to none. So when I ership of Toros Boghossian. A large production such as this takes months to coor - had the opportunity to attend this event, there Three Generations Sing dinate and requires a lot of support from the community. was no hesitation.” On Tuesday, May 3, the trio gave a master class in Sydney open to Armenian Project Manager Aline Markarian, who is also Together in Michigan advanced-level music students and performers. It was an unprecedented event (prob - the chairperson of the AGBU Young Professionals ably the first event of its kind in the community) attended by talented young musi - of Greater New York, also was inspired to see “the MIDLAND, Mich. — On June16, three genera - cians. The master class was held at The Theme and Variations Showroom in immense contribution” that Aznavour has made tions performed Carmina Burana by Carl Orff Willoughby courtesy of Ara and Nyree Vartoukian who opened their studios late in towards helping Armenia which she said was with the Midland Symphony Orchestra. the evening to accommodate the event. All the performers, including their parents shown with particular poignancy during the video Participating with 300 singers on one stage and teachers who were present, benefited from the opportunity to attend. portion of the tribute. were Sarah Dergazarian, her daughter, Annette The Khachaturian Trio had a busy 10 days in Sydney. Their first performance was Markarian, whose mother was a member of Mamassian, and Annette Mamassian’s daugh - during the commemoration ceremony of the Armenian Genocide, which was held the evening’s planning committee, noted the ter, Anna Mamassian. on April 29. The trio was also invited to join the panel for the auditions to the “incredible energy” among the attendees, and Dergazarian, a retired public school music upcoming Armenian Community Performing Arts Concert (taking place in Sydney the notable showing of young adults. “The event educator and choral director of the Midland in early June). The trio was invited by many organizations in the community and was even more special for who was being hon - Youth Honors Chorus, which she founded in attended many cultural events, graciously performing wherever the opportunity pre - ored, this incredible legend, Charles Aznavour, a 1981, is recognized in the music society sented. The trio members also took time to tour the city, meet local Armenians and humble man who has made such a great impact throughout Michigan. Upon graduation from non-Armenians and left great impressions on everyone they met. on this world, not only for Armenians, but also the University of Wisconsin, she became the The highlight of the Khachaturian Trio tour was their two concerts held on May for the world at large. In such a beautiful space director/organist of the Armenian Church in 6 and 7 at the Independent Theatre in North Sydney. Both events were sell-out with its impressive grandeur, one could not help Greenfield, Wis. As a resident of Midland for 52 see KHACHATURIAN, page 13 but feel how special the occasion was,” she years, she has established herself as a driving declared. “This was an event that I will always see MICHIGAN, page 13 remember.” S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING

Ode to Many Forms of Love in Der-Hovanneisan Book Khachaturian Trio Performs in Sydney Dancing At the Monastery. Poems by In “Dancing With the Dead” she writes: KHACHATURIAN, from page 12 on a quest to identify and nurture new talent. Diana Der-Hovanessian, Sheep Meadow The best waltzer I ever danced with performances attended by Armenian and non- Technology and globalization have shifted Press, Box 1345, Riverdale, New York, was a Russian in a Moscow café. Armenian music loving audiences. Playing a dif - interests in many young children away from 10471 103 pages 16.50 Next best was my college friend Lindy. ferent program each night, the trio presented a classical music and the arts to spending time I wonder if his mother had sent him to well-selected group of works — challenging but on computers playing games. Many parents dance at the same time enjoyable works for all to in the villages and regions in Armenia lack lessons too. We always had so much to appreciate. the financial means to support their chil - By Susan Pahigian say For the Saturday concert, audiences were dren’s musical development. Recognizing this to one another we talked even when we delighted when the local prima donna of problem, the trio tour Armenia and give mas - These poems may be telling a true story danced. Australian Opera, soprano Arax Mansourian, ter classes at music schools in order to iden - about a lost love, or they may be a series of Except now when there is a great Straus joined the trio. Mansourian was one of the lead - tify gifted young musicians and provide them imagined dancing adventures, either way waltz ing sopranos of the they are heart-wrenching and filled with sur - on the radio, we dance without saying a Armenian National prises. They are interspersed with the small word. Opera before moving touching poems, referring to the poet’s Some of the strongest poems are connect - to Australia in 1994. Armenian heritage. ed to her inherited background: Since her arrival in This is Diana Der-Hovanessian’s 12th col - I have come to Yerevan; Sydney, she has lection of her own poems and 24th book, My father earned for me the right. achieved more than counting her translations, which have been My father earned more than the right. any other Armenian called “works of genius” by the New York He shed his blood and spent his life soprano, landing lead - Times critic Nona Balakian. The Times wanting to return to Yerevan. ing roles with the pres - Literary Review called her a “brilliant poet In the battle where General Murad died tigious Opera Australia who has opened up the book of her people my father also left for dead and receiving acclaim to the English-speaking world.” rose with a bullet in his head from critics, who have In this new book we find many love that like this ache always remained. praised her for her poems, many to a boy drowned in the I have inherited his pain. exquisite timbre, broad Tyrrhenian Sea, some to dancers in the hills I have inherited his claim. vocal range and fine of Sassoun, to musician friends such as Maro I have inherited his fight. acting ability. The nos - Ajemian and mountains, especially for “the I have inherited his right talgia expressed when Mansourian sang From left, Karen Shaggaldyan, Armine Grigoryan, Sona Barseghyan and one mountain that lies in clouds and snows to return to Yerevan. Karen Kocharyan across the border, Ararat, that like a dream There are many, prosy poems, telling sto - Ganachian’s Oror and comes and goes.” ries such as “The Horse Whisperer,” about Komitas’ Garun-a was so overwhelming that There are poems about her university days her father’s horses in Armenia and poems with the opportunity to further develop their one could see tears flowing from some of the in New England, others about New York, about her friendship with other poets, such musical education. With the help of Assadour audience members. and still others based in Armenia where she as Frances Minturn Howard. Guzelian of London, they have formed a spe - What sets the Khachaturian Trio apart is was a Fulbright scholar and teacher of The volume also contains poems in form, cial fund called “Young Talent Quest” to help their gift of generosity. Having found success American poetry. The thread that ties them sonnets and villanelles, all well suited for support the musical education of these and fame not only in Armenia but also on the together is the music of the Armenian dance. dancing on paper. young children and already the fund is sup - worldwide stage, the trio members have been porting many gifted Armenian children to continue their music studies in Yerevan. All good things come to an end and the trio have returned back to Yerevan to continue with their busy schedule of tours and concerts. The organizers thank Mr. and Mrs. Tevanian and the Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2011 AGBU Sydney Chapter for inviting the trio, whose music will remain vivid for years in the memory of those who attended the concerts. Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor — H. J. Sebouhian a Teacher’ program has raised over $477,750 and reached out to 3,700 teachers and Three Generations Sing school workers in Armenia and Karabagh. Together in Michigan MICHIGAN, from page 12 £ force in youth choral music and continues to mentor young vocal students. In 1989, she was K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue named Musician of the Year by the Midland helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have Symphony Orchestra and Music Society and in the teacher’s name and address. 1999, she received a special tribute from the governor of the Michigan. She has conducted K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— workshops at the University of Michigan Midwest Music Conference and at numerous Name Michigan colleges. In the Armenian Church, Address she has conducted workshops for the St. John City State Zip code Church Komitas Choir in Detroit, St. Mesrob Tel: Church in Racine, Wis. and for the Choir Association of the Western Diocese in Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 California. Dergazarian and her late husband, Mail your check with this form to: Thomas, have an education endowment for St. TCA Sponsor a Teacher Nersess Seminary, and she also has an endow - 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 ment with the Midland Area Community Your donation is Tax Deductible. Foundation providing scholarships to students majoring in vocal music education. Annette Mamassian, a University of Michigan graduate, has sung with the U of M Arts Chorale, Michigan Opera Theater and currently sings with the Madrigal Chorale of Southfield, where she has performed twice at the White House. She has been a member of and soloist t St. John Armenian Church Komitas Choir of Detroit for more than 25 years. Having per - formed this cantata many times, she was invit - ed by the director of the Midland Music Society to sing in this production. Anna Mamassian, a junior at Central Michigan University, is a member of the University Concert Choir and is pursuing a dou - ble major in music education in instrumental and vocal. A graduate of Detroit St. John Church School, in 2007 and 2008 she partici - pated in the Eastern Diocese Junior Choir Leadership Program. Upon completion of her training, she conducted parts of the badarak in New York and with the St. John Komitas Choir. 14 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- Time to Contain Georgian Arrogance

It is ironic that the European Union, the US State Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian Department and human rights groups are at Armenia’s back to accept and register all kinds of esoteric sects which wreak havoc in Armenia, undermining the authority of the Armenian His Holiness Karekin II had been planning to visit Georgian Apostolic Church and infiltrate the military to incite soldiers Armenian communities for a long time. His visit would be only to give up arms against the enemy. Armenia is criticized as the second one since Khrimian Hairig, Catholicos of all being a partially free country, whereas Georgia enjoys impuni - Established 1932 Armenians, visited more than a century ago. On again and off ty though it has refused to recognize any church as a legal again, the visit finally happened when Georgian Church author - entity, because Georgia is the West’s spoiled brat in the An ADL Publication ities, and especially Georgian Patriarch Illya II, extended the Caucasus. invitation, when all his traps and plots were in place to intimi - During His Holiness Karekin’s visit, a joint communiqué sur - date his Armenian counterpart. faced in Tbilisi, with preposterous demands. The Armenian side EDITOR Georgians are known to be fun-loving people, always at the was quick to clarify to the public that it has not signed such a Alin K. Gregorian expense of others. During the last several centuries, Armenians communiqué. The outrageous demand in that communiqué

ASSOCIATE EDITOR built their capital, Tbilisi, which in the 19th century had become claimed parity between the two churches, meaning, whatever Aram Arkun the Paris of the Caucasus. When the Soviet revolution came to status the Armenian Church enjoys in Georgia, the same status be, it was a very handy excuse to get rid of the capitalist class — should be accorded to the Georgian Church in Armenia. ART DIRECTOR Marc Mgrditchian mostly Armenian — and they took over what that class had built Georgian clergy have confiscated Armenian churches in their in terms of culture, architecture, material wealth and religious country, whereas no Georgian churches exist in Armenia, even PRODUCTION institutions. if the Armenian clergy harbored the same intensions versus Dilani Yogaratnam Georgia is the only other Christian nation in the Caucasus, their Georgian counterparts. but it has always been envious of the Armenians and thus is Despite this fact, the Georgian Patriarch announced a few always plotting against Armenia, in collusion with its enemies. years ago the formation of the Diocese of the Georgian Church It turns out that that competitive envy had also permeated in Northern Armenia, where very few Georgians live and no CONTRIBUTORS: the Georgian religious order, beginning from their Patriarch churches exist. Elizabeth Aprahamian, Daphne Abeel, Dr. Haroutiune Arzoumanian, Edmond Illya II down to the ordinary priests usurping Armenian church - Adding insult to injury, the Georgian Patriarch made some Azadian, Prof. Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana es, all along and trampling human and minority rights. derogatory remarks about our Catholicos, dispensing advice Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, In Georgia, Armenians are mostly concentrated in the capital that he should wait to have more experience and that change Kevork Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian- Tbilisi and the Javakhk region. During the Soviet period and cannot be brought overnight, forgetting that he needs to learn Placido , H arut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, subsequent independence years, Georgians have repressed some common courtesy and religious conduct and not to Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian, Armenians into becoming a docile community. behave like a Georgian guindo . Taleen Babayan Although the Armenian government tries to help fellow Although the Catholicosate rebuked the remarks of the Armenians in Georgia, it has to do so with kid gloves, because Georgian pontiff, further action is needed to tame the Georgian CORRESPONDENTS: Armenia’s economic lifeline to the world beyond goes through arrogance. Georgia. In addition, gas and oil from Russia pass through the In the first place, the European governments who request Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Boston - Nancy Kalajian Georgian territory. The Tbilisi government has deftly used those compliance from Armenia must be alerted. If necessary, legal Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian factors every time it has decided to exert political pressure on action needs to be taken. Armenia. Armenians in Javakhk have limited resources and the Contributing Photographers: Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair Javakhk is an Armenian territory, which has fallen under Armenian government is in a precarious situation and realizes Hovsepian Georgian administration by an accident of history, during the the cost of rocking the boat. Therefore, it is incumbent on dias - 1918-1920 period. The Georgians have used tacit and not-so- pora organizations — and especially religious institutions — to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published tacit methods to depopulate the region of Armenians. assume the responsibility and to meet the challenge. weekly, except two weeks in July, by: The catholicos’s visit this month brought out the true colors Washington, the patron saint of Georgia, has to be apprised Baikar Association, Inc. and intentions of the Georgian clergy. of the religious intolerance and abuse of human rights rampant 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 To begin with, the Georgian Patriarch accompanied Karekin, in that country. In this instance, since the issue is mostly reli - Telephone: 617-924-4420 under the pretext of hosting him on Georgian land, but in real - gious in nature, both the Diocese and the Prelacy can come FAX: 617-924-2887 ity, he tried to steal the show, because Armenians all over that together to draft a position paper and appeal to our legislatures land gave a warm reception to the Armenian pontiff. His www.mir rorspectator.com who have become so generous in spoiling Georgia in order to Holiness also raised some outstanding issues between the spite Moscow. E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com churches: confiscation of Armenian monasteries and places of In addition, letters, e-mails and phone calls should inundate For advertising: [email protected] worship and above all the status of the Armenian Church in the State Department and congressional offices. New York/New Jersey Office Georgia. As of today, the Armenian Church does not have a legal Sitting idly will not change the desperate situation of the 560 Sylvan Ave. , Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632 status in that country. The government gets away with murder, Armenians in Georgia. (201) 800-1164 thumbing its nose at Armenian demands. This boundless arrogance has to be contained.

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recognize, but also engaging in a policy of blunt denial of appropriateness of Postanjyan’s criticism of the the genocide of Armenians committed in the Ottoman President, while on foreign soil. Empire in 1915.” He pledged that Armenians and all Some Armenian politicians were of the opinion that it those concerned with crimes against humanity “will was improper for Postanjyan “to attack” President henceforth remain focused on the international recogni - Sargisian in the chambers of the European Council. My Turn tion of the Armenian Genocide.” Others felt that her “harsh words” inadvertently made After his speech, President Sargisian spent another 30 the president look good, because in a truly “authoritari - By Harut Sassounian minutes answering questions from PACE delegates rep - an regime,” she would have been excluded from resenting Lithuania, France, Switzerland, Russia, Armenia’s delegation, stripped of her parliamentary Moldova, Holland, Armenia and Ireland. Five Azerbaijanis immunity and prosecuted. In fact, some European Hanging Armenia’s Dirty had placed their names on the list of parliamentarians to Parliamentarians wondered whether Turkish or Azeri del - Laundry in Public ask questions, but none of them did so. The delegates egates would dare to criticize their president at PACE? from Turkey had also made a unanimous decision not to American politicians use the expression “politics stops President Serge Sargisian made an important appear - question the Armenian president, as reported by at the water’s edge” to indicate their willingness to set ance at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Hurriyet Turkish newspaper. aside internal disputes for the sake of presenting a unit - Europe (PACE) in Strasbourg last week. In a whirlwind The question that attracted most attention was the one ed front to outsiders. Applying that adage to Armenia, 30-minute speech, he covered Armenia’s internal and for - asked by Parliamentarian Zaruhi Postanjyan from one could question the wisdom of making such dis - eign affairs, presenting his country in the best possible Armenia, a member of the opposition Heritage Party. She paraging comments before the Council of Europe, regard - light before a distinguished foreign audience. asked President Sargisian: “Since an authoritarian less of whether one agrees with the President or his poli - On the domestic front, President Sargisian spoke about regime has been established in Armenia and all elections cies. Since Armenia is routinely attacked by Turkish and fighting corruption, holding “fair and transparent elec - from 1995 on have been rigged,” wouldn’t it be prefer - Azerbaijani delegates in international forums, it is unwise tions,” and overcoming “the consequences of the tragic able if he organized special and fair elections and then to add one’s voice to those tarnishing Armenia’s reputa - events of March 2008.” “resigned?” tion. The President then reminded the European As the Turkish president of PACE, Mevlut Cavusoglu, This issue also comes up when some Armenians try to Parliamentarians about Armenia’s “shared historical and snickered at the question, President Sargisian calmly pressure their authorities by taking their internal dis - cultural legacy” with Europe and discussed the ongoing responded that he was well aware of Postanjyan’s views, putes to foreign governments and international courts. negotiations to resolve the Artsakh (Karabagh) conflict. which she had freely expressed in the Armenian parlia - While their frustration is understandable, dragging a for - He condemned “the extreme level of Armenophobia and ment, on the street and in the media. He added that he eign entity into an internal dispute detracts from racism” in Azerbaijan, and spoke of the difficulty of mak - was not prepared to hold special elections because it is Armenia’s image overseas. In such cases, however, the ing “a concession to the side that is looking for a conve - neither necessary nor constitutionally feasible to orga - blame must be shared by the Armenian government for nient excuse to shoot at us.” nize such elections. He urged Postanjyan to participate in failing to ensure the integrity of domestic courts, there - President Sargisian went on to accuse the Turkish gov - the next regularly-scheduled parliamentary elections. by forcing citizens to turn elsewhere for justice. ernment of undermining the “normalizaton” of Armenia- Not surprisingly, President Sargisian’s PACE speech Before making critical comments about Armenia’s lead - Turkey relations “by setting preconditions and failing to was welcomed by his supporters and criticized by his ership outside the country, especially by parliament mem - honor its commitments, which rendered the ratification opponents at home. The most important issue for all con - bers who have ample opportunity to express their views of the signed Protocols impossible.” He called on Turkey cerned should have been whether the President’s impres - at home, one must weigh the benefits of pressuring the and Azerbaijan to end the “unlawful blockade imposed sive words would translate into action in the near future. authorities to respect the people’s rights with the dam - on Armenia” and accused Turkey of “not only failing to However, the immediate controversy revolved around the age caused to the country’s international reputation. Why Do Pontic Greeks Seek Separate Recognition?

hey say that genocide is “the after additional information (which pointed of trouble. I have tried to bring this injustice approved by the Greek state, and one unoffi - deliberate and systematic to the genocide in regions outside of Pontus) to the attention of Pontic Greek organiza - cial commemoration date for the genocide. destruction, in whole or in was used. It was a result of efforts by a politi - tions in Australia and around the world, and For the Pontus region it is May 19, for the part, of an ethnic, racial, reli - cian of Pontic descent who resides in I have been treated with utmost disrespect. I genocide of all Ottoman Greeks, gious or national group.” So Sweden. So we can see a clear pattern here. have been verbally abused by Pontic Greeks September14, and for the Thrace region, why is it then that Pontic Pontic Greeks are only concerned about who consider me a troublemaker. But how April 6 (this date is unofficial meaning it is Greeks continue to seek in their own people. They have little or no con - so? Are these the actions of a civilized race? not recognized by the Greek state). The some cases a separate recogni - cern for the other Greeks that lived outside Why can’t Pontic Greeks accept someone Greek state should be held accountable T tion for the genocide that of Pontus and who also died in the same cir - else’s opinion? Why must they resort to vio - somewhat for assigning May 19 as a day of occurred in the historic region cumstances as their own people. In other lent means to silence me? How can I be a commemoration for the Pontic Greeks. This of Pontus? They were not a separate ethnic words, the Greeks who were sent on death trouble maker when I am seeking the recog - occurred in 1994. In doing so, albeit under group — they were Greek. They were not a marches, massacred, raped and left to die in nition of all the Greeks who perished due to pressure by Pontic Greek politician Michalis separate racial group either — they were of regions such as Smyrna, Nicomedia, genocide? Is this such a bad thing? In effect, Charalambidis, they have given Pontic the same race as the Greeks. Or so they tell Constantinople, Eastern Thrace, etc. are not according to Pontic Greeks, people who seek Greeks belief that the genocide in Pontus us. They were not a separate religious group worthy of recognition. This behavior is cer - recognition based on the true meaning and was a separate event. Which it wasn’t. — they were Greek Orthodox. And they were tainly worrying. A genocide is certainly a definition of genocide, are simply getting in The existence of so many dates of com - not a national group since Pontus was mere - dreadful act. But recognition should encom - their way. memoration only adds to the confusion. ly a region of the then Ottoman Empire — it pass all the victims and not just those from Pontic Greeks will continue to get in the However September 14 should be adopted was not a nation. one region. After all, if we look at the defini - way of the international recognition of the by all Greeks as being the date of commemo - Most would be aware of the resolutions tion of the term genocide as mentioned Greek Genocide if they continue this path. ration for the Greek Genocide as attested by passed in US parliaments acknowledging or above, the Pontic Greeks are acting outside Their continual insistence in using the falla - Greek Law 2645/98. It was on this day that at least commemorating the day of May 19 as of the definition of the term. They are not a cious term “Pontian Genocide” will only Smyrna was set afire by the Turks, a vital a day that genocide occurred in the Pontus distinct race, ethnic group, religion or nation - delay worldwide recognition. The term date for all Ottoman Greeks. And the fact region. Most of these resolutions would have al group. “Pontian Genocide” means nothing to a non- that Greece officially made this day a day of come about as a result of efforts of Pontic Aside from pride in their own separate cul - Greek. Most people would have no idea what commemoration in 1998, four years after associations, which are mostly run by ordi - ture (they danced and spoke Greek different - a Pontian actually is. In fact a Pontian is sim - assigning May 19 as a day of commemoration nary citizens. As a result of the lack of well- ly) there is another reason why they seek sep - ply someone from Pontus, in much the same for the Pontus region, only serves to high - informed personnel, most if not all of the res - arate recognition. And that is, because they way as an Indian is someone from India. The light that the Greek state believes recogni - olutions contain factual irregularities. For can do it and get away with it. term doesn’t define if that person is Greek, tion of the genocide should be more inclusive instance most of them differ in the naming of In much the same way as the Turks com - Turkic, Armenian or a Laz. than exclusive. the genocide, the number of victims, the mitted genocide and thought they could get Which brings another issue to light. Many We can only hope that common sense will inclusion or omission of other Greeks, which away with it, the Pontic Greeks too are behav - Pontic Greeks insist that Pontus was a Greek prevail and that Pontic Greeks will put aside also were victims of the same genocide ing in much the same way. If a Pontic Greek state and it should be returned to its rightful their ego and join with all Greeks in com - (Greeks of other parts of the Ottoman was to read for instance The Blight of Asia by owners meaning the Greeks. This is non - memorating the Greek Genocide on the one Empire) and a general lack of uniformity. George Horton or an article in the New York sense. Pontus was a region in which many day. Having said that, there is nothing wrong Mistakes have continued in other parts of Times, which talks of massacres of Greeks in races of people lived. When Greeks first set with Pontic Greeks or other Greeks mourn - the world namely in Australia where Pontic the former Ottoman Empire, he or she imme - foot in Pontus, they found other races ing on a separate date and in private if they Greeks sought a separate recognition and diately uses that information to say that a already living there. And throughout history so wish. But if we are to take the Greek placed the other Greek victims (which by the genocide occurred just in Pontus. Which is the region was always inhabited by other Genocide seriously, a single day of mourning way outnumbered the Pontic Greeks) into a not true. Pontic Greeks have filtered out races. Pontus was always a region where peo - must be put aside for all Greeks to mourn category of “other minorities.” It must be information detailing the genocide of all ple of many races resided. together. stressed that more Greeks perished during Greeks of the former Ottoman Empire to sup - As Greeks we can only hope that the There is currently no country in the world the Greek Genocide of 1914-1923 outside of port their own case. And this must stop. efforts of Pontic Greeks in seeking separate that has officially recognized the Greek Pontus than within it. So why do Pontic If Pontic Greeks are in fact Greek as they recognition stops. Exclusivity of suffering Genocide. The Armenian Genocide, however, Greeks do it? insist they are, then they must behave so. should have no place in genocide recognition has been recognized by over 20 countries In Sweden last year a resolution was Seeking recognition for a genocide based on or even memorial. Which brings in the issue worldwide. passed which only recognized the genocide just one region is immoral. My efforts to of the separate dates of commemoration. (This commentary originally appeared in of Pontic Greeks. The resolution was adopted highlight this injustice has got me into a lot There are currently two official days the May 24 issue of Pontos World .) 16 S ATURDAY , J ULY 2, 2011 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR AGBU Young Professionals of Philadelphia Host Cultural Events and Announce Summer Mixer

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia commit - Others who participated in the evening’s activi - community,” said Paretchan. Bazarbasian, Nubar Dailerian, Gina Ekmekjian, tee of the AGBU Young Professionals (YP ties were emcee Vicken Bazarbashian and the This summer, YP Philly is hosting their third Tina Hagopian, Julie Paretchan, Colette Seter, Philly) has marked this year by hosting major performers and photographers, including YP annual “Coast in the City” at Positano Coast Jackie Santerian, Paul Sookiasian and Gina cultural events and collaborating with local Philly Chair Meredith Avakian, YP Philly Vice- (212 Walnut St.) in Old City, Philadelphia, start - Terkanian. YP Philly is proud its events attract Armenian organizations to better provide a chair Julie Paretchan, Paul Sookiasian, Armen ing at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 11. a cross-section of people from the five broad range of events for the young profession - Bazarbashian, Birthright alumni Ani Jilozian, The AGBU YP Philadelphia officers and com - Armenian churches and various Armenian orga - al community. Taleen Khoury Moughamian, Ross Norian and mittee meet monthly to plan social, profession - nizations throughout the Greater Philadelphia On February 17, together with Philadelphia- Vicken Kazanjian. al, cultural and community service events. area and the Northeastern US. For more infor - area Birthright Armenia alumni, YP Philly host - On April 6, together with the University of Committee members include Karina mation about the chapter, contact Meredith ed “I LOVE Armenia” at Plays & Players Pennsylvania Armenian Student Association Ambartsoumian, Meredith Avakian, Vicken Avakian at [email protected]. Theater and Bar in Rittenhouse Square. (ASA), YP Philly hosted a film screening for Organized as an opportunity to share, mingle “Finding Zabel Yessayan,” a documentary by and get informed about travel and volunteerism Lara Aharonian and Talin Suciyan. The screen - in Armenia, the event drew 55 young profes - ing, which was chaired by Julie Paretchan, sionals and guests. The evening served as a plat - Nubar Dailerian, Tina Hagopian and ASA form for performers to share stories, poetry and President Alexis Williams, attracted more than photography from their travels and discuss 40 individuals of various ages and backgrounds. their volunteer experiences in Armenia and “It was a privilege to have [the filmmaker] Talin Karabagh. In turn, attendees were given infor - join us on her first American film tour and visit mation about how they can make the most of to Philadelphia. We appreciated the strong sup - their own visits. port and audience engagement around a grass - Colette Seter and Karina Ambartsoumian roots film and look forward to creating more served as co-chairs for the February event. unique cultural event opportunities for the Sargisian Addresses PACE

PACE, from page 1 diplomatic relations and opening of the bor - Sargisian spent a great deal of time speak - der, to gradually overcome the divide that ing about the problems of Nagorno Karabagh had existed for almost a century. I would like and relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan. He to note that, throughout the process, we complained about the warmongering by greatly appreciated the inspiration and per - Azerbaijan and the fruitless peace process manent support of not only the mediator with Turkey. states, but also the international community Filmmaker Talin Suciyan discusses her recent documentary, “Finding Zabel Yerssayan,” on April 6. “Peaceful and just resolution of the more broadly, including various senior offi - Nagorno-Karabagh conflict remains the most cials of the Council of Europe. Unfortunately, important issue for us. The negotiations are in spite of this support, Armenia-Turkey nor - conducted in the framework of the OSCE malization process ended up in a deadlock. Minsk Group. We are grateful to the co-chair “The sole reason was that Turkey reverted states for their efforts. to its practice of setting preconditions and The Armenian “I believe you would agree that the most failing to honor its commitments, which ren - important current and potential contribution dered the ratification of the signed protocols of the Council of Europe to this process is impossible. the promotion of tolerance. To this end, we “It is important to emphasize that Armenia note with pain and concern that hotbeds of initiated the process with good intentions, Mirro r-Spe ctator racism and xenophobia still exist in the terri - true to the 21st-century imperative of peace - tory of the Council of Europe. ful coexistence of nations and peoples, all on The European Commission against Racism the backdrop of Turkey still not only failing YES, I would like a 1 – year subscription to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator. and Intolerance, in its recent regular report to recognize, but also engaging in a policy of on Azerbaijan, reconfirmed the extreme level blunt denial of the Genocide of Armenians USA /Second Class Mail $75.00 CANADA /Air Mail $125.00 of Armenophobia and racism prevailing in committed in the Ottoman Empire in 1915. USA /First Class Mail $120.00 that country. We regret this fact, because it is Meanwhile, Armenians worldwide are expect - hard to imagine such a situation in a member ing an adequate response. Our tireless J THE SUBSCRIPTION IS FOR ME state of the Council of Europe. We regret, efforts, and hopefully also the efforts of those NAME because we clearly understand that the poi - concerned about crimes against humanity, ADDRESS son of intolerance strikes most heavily the will henceforth remain focused on the inter - society bearing such poison. national recognition of the Armenian CITY STATE ZIP “Even under these circumstances, we trav - Genocide. el to Kazan in anticipation of progress, as we “However, we are determined not to leave J THE SUBSCRIPTION IS A GIFT FOR: attach great importance to regional stability this problem unsolved for generations to NAME and development, to securing a safe future come. The normalization of relations for the generation growing up in Armenia, between Armenia and Turkey is important ADDRESS Nagorno Karabagh and Azerbaijan, and to not only for Armenians and Turks, but also CITY STATE ZIP demonstrating good will and a constructive for the whole region, I believe even for the approach. However, we all should realize that whole of Europe in terms of creating an Please make check payable to: The Armenian Mirror-Spectator and mail to: an agreement can be finalized and effectively atmosphere of peace, stability, and coopera - implemented only when the patterns of tion. The unlawful blockade of Armenia must 755 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Armenophobia and racism are eliminated in come to an end.” All payments must be drawn on US banks Azerbaijan and an atmosphere of trust is Interestingly, the only aggressive question formed. Naturally, no one may question the for Sargisian after the speech came from inherent right of the people of Karabagh to Armenia’s delegate to PACE, opposition live freely and safely on their land and to be member Zaruhi Postanjian, who in her ques - the masters of their destiny. tion suggested Armenia was a dictatorship “Regardless of different visions for the final and far from democratic. SUB SCRIBE resolution of the Nagorno-Karabagh conflict, “The idea that Mrs. Postanjyan is a mem - one thing is certain. Karabagh has been, is, ber of PACE delegation is speaking for itself. and will remain a part of Europe, albeit That is to say, we are not an authoritarian unrecognized. Do we realize that society in country, for the representative of the opposi - Karabagh today is a part of European society, tion in an authoritarian country cannot be a part of the European family regardless of included in a delegation of international the de-jure status of Karabagh? Has the time organization and to pose such a question to not come for the Council of Europe to the head of the country,” said the Chairman engage directly with Karabagh in terms of its of the Republic of Armenia National primary functions of protection and promo - Assembly Standing Committee on Defense, tion of human rights, formation of civil soci - National Security and Internal Affairs Hrayr ety, democracy, tolerance, and the like?” Karapetyan. Regarding Turkey, he said, “Two years ago, TODAY! we initiated a process of normalization For the full comments of Sargisian, vis it between Armenia and Turkey, which would www.president.am/events/statements/eng/?id have allowed, through the establishment of =91.