MARCH 23, 2013 MirTHErARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXIII, NO. 36, Issue 4281 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Hakobyan Hosts President Sargisian, Lebanese Chargé Catholicos Attend D’Affaires Pope Francis Rediscovering Khachaturian YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Armenian Minister of Inauguration Diaspora Hranush Hakobyan hosted Lebanese Chargé d’Affaires in Armenia Ara Khachaturian. VATICAN CITY (ArmeniaNow) — Franz Werfel Hakobyan greeting Khachaturian, said, “I am Armenian President Serge Sargisian proud of [a] young Armenian man who has the attended the inauguration of Pope Francis trust of the Lebanese government and occupies I in the Vatican on Tuesday, March 19. Potsdam Conference such a position.” Leaders and senior representatives of Khachaturian will soon head to South Africa, dozens of states as well as hundreds of Analyzes Life of Brave where there is a population of about 35,000 thousands of faithful gathered in and Humanitarian Lebanese, including 300 Lebanese Armenians. around St. Peter’s Square for a mass that Khachaturov expressed gratitude for the recep - By Muriel Mirak- tion. Weissbach A number of issues involving Syrian Armenians were reportedly discussed during the meeting. Special to the Mirror-Spectator POTSDAM, Germany — Author Hasan Cemal Among the required reading for most Armenians is the novel The Fired from Milliyet Forty Days of Musa Dagh by Franz Werfel, and the author is Newspaper thus known among Armenians ISTANBUL (Armenpress) — Author of the book, Pope Francis and Armenian President Serge mainly — if not exclusively — for 1915: Armenian Genocide , journalist and writer, Sargisian speak after inauguration mass this monumental work. But, as a Hasan Cemal, was fired this week from the Milliyet conference held on March 10-12 newspaper, where he had worked since 1998. in Potsdam, Germany document - According to Turkish press reports, Cemal was installed the former Archbishop Jorge ed, Werfel’s literary accomplish - fired after the newspaper refused to publish the vet - Mario Bergoglio of Argentina as the new ments include a large number of eran journalist’s latest column. Cemal’s last piece leader of the Roman Catholic Church. other significant works which was published on March 2, voicing support for the According to his press office, Sargisian deal with a vast array of issues. paper’s decision to publish the meeting minutes congratulated the new Bishop of Rome, The title of the three-day confer - from a second parliamentarian visit to the jailed Francis I, on becoming the spiritual leader ence cosponsored by the Lepsius Franz Werfel leader of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party of the worldwide Catholic Church. House and the Moses (PKK,) Abdullah Öcalan. He stressed that the event had a special Mendelssohn Center in Potsdam Cemal wrote his last column after Prime Minister symbolism and meaning for the Armenian already gives a sense of the scope of his activity which has been the subject of Reçep Tayyip Erdogan criticized the newspaper, people which was the first to officially extensive research: “Genocide and Literature: Franz Werfel in an Armenian-Jewish- saying the principle of press freedom does not give adopt Christianity back in 301. Turkish-German Perspective.” In the course of the speeches and concluding round the media the right to “act against the national The president was reportedly happy to table discussion, speakers from Germany, France, Austria and the United States interest of a country.” Erdogan directed his criti - state that the Holy See of the Saint Peter is shed new light on the many facets of this extraordinarily complex figure. cism towards Cemal, saying, “down with your jour - now led by a friend of the Armenian people Peter Stephan Jungk, who has written a Werfel biography, introduced the author nalism, if this is the journalism you will conduct.” who is “well aware of our culture and his - with an overview of his life and works, and remarked that doing research for the Cemal, who had criticized Erdogan in the col - tory which he had many times stated dur - book took him on a journey through the first half of the 20th century. In fact, umn, was removed, but the editor who published ing his activities in Argentina.” see WERFEL, page 12 the article and the other journalists involved were Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II not fired. also reportedly attended the ceremony. Cemal, the grandson of Young Turk Party leader Cemal Pasha, will present his new book 1915: St. Vartan Cathedral Armenian Genocide on April 15 at St. Thomas Davit Safaryan Armenian Church in Tenafly, NJ. Celebrates Holy Week The book, which has become a bestseller in Wins European Turkey, presents factual information about the NEW YORK — St. Vartan Armenian Armenian Genocide and speaks about Cemal’s per - Wrestling Cathedral will observe Holy Week, March sonal transformation — from someone who once 24 through March 30, with a series of spe - denied the Armenian Genocide to someone who Championship cial services, culminating in the Easter not only recognizes it, but is willing to risk pub - Sunday celebration on March 31. TBILISI (PanArmenian.net) — Armenian lishing a book on his findings. Palm Sunday, which commemorates wrestler, Davit Safaryan (66 kg,) took Cemal visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, falls on March home the European Championships’ gold in Yerevan five years ago and wrote in his book, “To 24. Fr. Mamigon Kiledjian (dean of St. medal. Safaryan beat out Turkish con - deny the Genocide would mean to be an accomplice Vartan Cathedral) will be the celebrant for tender, Yakup Gor, in the finals. in this crime against humanity.” Mihran Jaburyan (55 kg), and Narek the services, which will begin with a morn - Sanoyan (60 kg) also represented Armenia Davit Safaryan ing service at 9:30 a.m., and will continue in the tournament. with the Divine Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. The Turun-patzek or “Door-Opening” Service will be held after the Divine Liturgy. INSI DE On March 28, the church will celebrate Former MS Reporter Daphne Abeel Dies Great and Holy Thursday, and the day’s ser - vices will memorialize the Last Supper, CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Daphne Abeel, 75, gene, Abeel had a long career in trade pub - Jesus’ vigil in the Garden of Gethsemane Happy a writer and editor, died suddenly on March lishing. She started with Holt Reinhart and and his arrest and trial. Two separate ser - 2, in Portland, Ore., while visiting her Winston in New York and was for 20 years vices will be celebrated on this day. In the younger brother, Neilson Abeel, and his an editor at Houghton Mifflin. She later morning, the Divine Liturgy will begin at 25, NKR wife, Tori Bryer. worked at Crown Publishers. Her authors 11 a.m. This will be followed by a luncheon. She was a mem - included Arthur Ashe, Robert Stone and In the evening, the “Washing of the Page 7 ber of the staff of Sen. Jacob Javits. Her interest in politics led Feet” ceremony will start at 7 p.m., with the the Armenian her to work for Massachusetts State Khavaroom or Vigil Service following at Mirror-Spectator for Representative Lida Harkins. She co-found - 8:30 p.m. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, more than 10 years, ed Abeel & Leet Publishers with Judith Primate of the Diocese, will officiate. INDEX starting in 2000. Leet in 1995. Later she turned to newspa - During the Washing of Feet ceremony, Arts and Living ...... 10 After leaving the per work as editor of the Needham twelve individuals will serve as surrogates Armenia ...... 2 staff, she continued Chronicle and assistant editor of the for the apostles. Community News...... 4 contributing book Armenian Mirror-Spectator . She was an The crucifixion and death of Christ will Editorial ...... 14 reviews regularly. associate member of the Signet Society at be observed on Holy Friday, March 29, and International ...... 3 Daphne Abeel Having inherited Harvard and the Cambridge Tennis Club. again two services will occur. The Order of her father’s literary see ABEEL, page 16 see DIOCESE, page 16 2 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Some Syrian-Armenian Families Find

Gainful Employment in Advantages to Settling in Karabagh Households Declining YEREVAN (Arminfo) — Gainful employment of By Gayane Mkrtchyan Armenia’s households is declining, the results of the Caucasus Barometer 2012 survey say. The sur- STEPANAKERT (ArmeniaNow) — vey was conducted by the Caucasus Research Numerous Syrian-Armenians have Resource Centers (CRRC) and Eurasia Partnership moved to Armenia because of the war Foundation. in Syria, many among them further In 2010, 61 percent of Armenia’s households had moved and have settled in Nagorno gainful employment, in 2011 this index dropped to Karabagh Republic’s Kashatagh 59 percent, and in 2012, to 58 percent. In 2010, 26 region. percent of the households wanted to move to This southwestern part of Karabagh another country for permanent residence, in 2011 has now 23 Syrian families totaling 71 – 23 percent. In 2012, this index rose to the level people. The first family moved there of 2010. In the meantime, 59 percent of the house- much earlier, in 2008, even before the holds would have moved to another country for war broke out. The majority of families temporary residence in 2010, 56 percent in 2011 migrated from northeastern Syrian and 54 percent in 2012. Qamishli city on the border with Turkey. US Intelligence Service Vardan Poghosyan’s family is one of them. He moved to Kashatagh together Vardan Poghosyan and his wife Concerned with NKR with his wife and 18-month-old daugh - ter. They live in the region’s capital, YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The US National Berdzor. Both are accountants and apartments provided to them free of 8,500 people reside in Kashatagh. Intelligence Service has published a report high- have jobs, and soon will be allotted an charge with an ownership right. Those Matevosyan says they are expecting lighting that Nagorno-Karabagh conflict continues apartment. families that will adapt and stay, will another wave of people to relocate to to pose serious risks to international safety. “It was my decision to come directly later be given the property ownership Kashatagh. During special hearings in the US Senate, Head to Karabagh. Rather than going to certificate,” Matevosyan said. “People “We got the applications a while ago. of National Intelligence Service James Clapper pre- Europe or America, why not come and with professions are now employed, About four to five families have come to sented the document, “Report of US Intelligence live in our homeland. Of course, there rural families have been given land lots. inquire about the terms. In any case we Services on Worldwide Threat Assessment.” are many difficulties, but we have to The state has granted agricultural loans are ready to accept everybody. We con - “Conflict remains to be a possible heart of the endure. After all, we have lived in a for - with zero interest rate. People have tinue building new houses and repair - outbreak. Mutual distrust between Armenia and eign country more than enough,” sown wheat, oats, and will return the ing the old ones. They adapt, live over - Azerbaijan and regularly repetitive violence in the Vardan Poghosyan, 29, said in an inter - money when they harvest the crops.” coming the challenges. There are lan - contact line increase the possibility of [incorrect] view, adding that following their exam - In 1992 (during the war) Armenian guage issues, but they are being over - calculations which may cause the tension of the sit- ple, his brother, Serob, has moved there forces took control over Berdzor come as well,” said Matevosyan. uation,” said Clapper, quoting from the report with his family, in-laws and relatives. (Lachin) and the Lachin corridor, which The Syrian-Armenians have the sup - regarding Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh. Some of the Syrian-Armenian fami - was also called the “road of life,” since port and encouragement not only of the According to the predictions of the US National lies live in Kovsakan, the second largest it was the only land communication NKR authorities, but also the Intelligence Service, increasing social discontent in city, and Ishkanadzor of Kashatagh between Karabagh and Armenia. Kashatagh authories, the Tufenkian Russia will also cause noticeable political tensions region. Robert Matevosyan, head of the Zangelan, Kubatlu and part of Lachin Foundation and Assistance to Self- there. re-settlement department of Kashatagh (which are among the seven disputed Determined Artsakh charitable founda - The report also touched on recent events in administrative district, says the first regions around former Autonomous tions, as well as the Help Your Brother Georgia, especially the victory of Prime Minister families who had moved to Kovsakan Republic of Nagorno Karabagh have relief initiative for Syrian-Armenians. Bidzina Ivanishvili and his party in the parliamen- now have private houses, for the others been re-arranged into Kashatagh region According to the Diaspora Ministry tary elections, as well as the Syrian conflict. a multi-story building has been renovat - with 3,376 sq.km total area, and the re- data, some 6,000 families have moved ed and apartments have been allotted. settlement of this area is of strategic to Armenia forced out by the military Constitutional Court “In Berdzor they still live in the importance. By the 2011 data of the actions in Syria, 300 among them Rejects Applications of guesthouse, soon will have their own NKR Labor and Social Affairs Ministry, reside in the provinces of Armenia. Hovannisian, Ghukasyan YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Constitutional Sport, Concert Complex to Host Presidential Inauguration Court of Armenia rejected the applications of for- mer presidential candidates Raffi Hovannisian and YEREVAN (ArmeniaNow) — The will give concrete answers. One cannot the cross is a holy symbol.” Andrias Ghukasyan disputing “Decision N62: On National Assembly voted 66 to 6, with lead a dialogue alone. One cannot nego - “See, it was March 16 and the docu - Election of the President of Armenian Republic.” 25 abstentions, to approve holding a tiate by himself. You have to have a ment was dated March 5 — a memoran - President of Constitutional Court Gagik special meeting at the Karen partner. If your suggestions are not dum signed by the National Assembly to Harutyunyan read the verdict. “[In the] decision by Demirchyan Sport and Concert accepted you should listen to what sug - be signed between Sargisian and [the] Constitutional Court, only [an] assessment of Complex on April 9. gestions are made to you rather than Hovannisian and referring to the idea of combining legal facts of evidential significance may It is expected that incumbent say ‘If Serge Sargisian is a man, he must creating some kind of constitutional be considered as legal basis,” Harutyunyan said. President Serge Sargisian’s inaugura - resign.’ I can voice formulations, too,” commission, council and preparing a ref - Reviews of both applications were completed by tion for the second five-year term, will said Sargisian, explaining to the erendum in some 2-3 years. It’s a mock - the court on March 13. also be held that day at the complex fol - reporters that he had sent a document ery, a crumb by its substance, but the lowing the meeting. with suggestions to Hovannisian, but bigger irony is in the fact that this is the Vardan Sedrakyan to The development confirms earlier that “a cross was drawn on the docu - option Abrahamian had suggested dur - reports that Sargisian would avoid hav - ment” and sent back. ing the non-official discussions and was Remain in Jail ing an inauguration in the Opera Hovannisian said he welcomed the rejected by our faction leader Ruben House, where he was sworn in for his fact that Sargisian had disclosed the Hakobyan,” Hovannisian told the press. YEREVAN (Arminfo) — On March 18, the Armenian first presidential stint, in view of the “confidential document” and said that Hovannisian also addressed Court of Appeal rejected lawyer Alexander continuing hunger strike of opposition he would send his two suggestions — Sargisian’s statements, in particular, Sirunyan’s motion to change the terms of deten- leader, Raffi Hovannisian, in the adja - one about the resignation, the other Hovannisian stressed he feels neither tion restraint against former presidential candidate cent square. related to a pan-national complex alter - hunger, nor bitterness with the world, Vardan Sedrakyan. Before starting his hunger strike on native — during a rally this week. as the incumbent president claimed. On March 5, the court of general jurisdiction of March 10, Hovannisian warned that if “Whatever happens after that and Sargisian had also said he disagreed Kentron and Nork Marash administrative districts Sargisian decides to go ahead with the before April 9, will be open, transparent, with Hovannisian’s claims that “the had sought to imprison him for two months, pend- swearing-in ceremony, he will be inau - so that people can witness; even if there people are at the square” and pointed ing formal charges.. gurated over his [Hovannisian’s] “dead is a meeting it will be open for the out that only some 3,000 people go to On January 31, fellow candidate Paruyr body.” press, or will at least be live broadcast,” the rallies. Hayrikyan was the subject of an assassination Hovannisian, disputing the official said Hovannisian, on his 10th day of “I believe it’s not worth descending to attempt. A criminal case was instituted under election results, promised on Tuesday hunger strike at Liberty Square. be among those 3,000. What is Article 34-305 of the Criminal Code. On February 7 during his meeting with the press to Speaking about the document Sargisian saying by that? If we rally Khachatur Poghosyan and Samvel Haroutyunyan present clear-cut suggestions to Sargisian had sent to him, Hovannisian 100,000 people, he would go to the were detained on charge of the assassination Sargisian, “for the solution of this said that the envelope [with an inscrip - trouble to come to negotiate or come attempt against Hayrikyan. Both confessed about unprecedented pan-national fundamen - tion “National Assembly”] was given to and visit? Is that it? He wants us to their roles, however, the reasons are not known tal issue before April 9.” him by Heritage Party representative prove to him that we can rally a hun - yet. Later, former presidential candidate Vardan Late afternoon on Monday, Sargisian Armen Martirosyan by way of dred thousand people at this square to Sedrakyan confirmed the information that he knew told a group of media representatives Parliament Speaker Hovik Abrahamian. impress him? Is that what he is saying? the detainees as they had worked on his house. that until now, he did not know “what Hovannisian stressed that the docu - I hope not, because the victory of the demands Raffi Hovannisian is making ment was “a mockery and a crumb,” Armenian people has besieged by his hunger strike.” and that he put an “x” on the document Baghramyan 26 [presidential residence] “If there is a concrete suggestion, I pages, and in no way a cross “because and Mr. Sargisian,” said Hovannisian. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL AGBU Delegation Visits Ukraine to International News Lay Groundwork for New Chapter Italy Ambassador Meets With Diplomatic Protocol KIEV — Plans for a new Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) Chief Chapter in the Ukraine are now under - way following a trip from Friday, ROME (Armenpress) — Newly-appointed Armenian February 22 to Sunday, February 24, by Ambassador to Italy Sargis Ghazaryan met with an AGBU delegation, who met with Stefano Ronca, chief of the Diplomatic Protocol of political and community leaders in Kiev Italy. During the meeting, both parties stressed the and Odessa to discuss the place and Armenian-Italian historical ties, warm and friendly contributions of Armenians in Ukraine traditional relations between the two states, as well and ways in which a future AGBU as importance of deepening and strengthening Chapter can further strengthen them. their relations. The 300-500,000 strong Ukrainian- Ghazaryan underlined the importance of reforms Armenian community is one of the old - implemented in Armenia within the European est in Europe, tracing its roots to the Union framework. beginning of the last millennium. Ghazaryan also spoke of regional developments Ukraine Parliament member Arsen and said that Armenia is interested in regional Avakov and his adviser Tigran Avagyan cooperation, stability and security. accompanied the AGBU representatives, At Ronca’s request, Ghazaryan presented comprised of AGBU Central Board Armenia’s official position regarding the Nagorno- From left, AGBU Central Board members Yervant Zorian and Vasken Yacoubian, Karabagh conflict. members Vasken Yacoubian and Ukraine Parliament member Arsen Avakov, AGBU Strategic Advisory Council mem - Yervant Zorian, AGBU Europe board ber Guy Markarian and Avakov’s adviser Tigran Avagyan discuss plans for establish - member Nicolas Tavitian and AGBU ing a new AGBU Chapter in the Ukraine. Prelacy Postpones Strategic Advisory Council member Guy Elections in Tehran Internship Program. TEHRAN (Combined sources) — According to the As the weekend came to a close, Tehran’s Armenian Prelacy Assembly’s previous Yacoubian said, “The Armenian commu - announcement, a meeting which was scheduled to nity in Ukraine is a very important part be held on March 3, concluded before its full agen- of the Armenian world, and I am da was covered, so that more people from different delighted that AGBU will be working segments of the population can gather to secure a here. We received a magnificent wel - more balanced view. come, and could see how much poten - This announcement was made by Prelate Sebouh tial there is; the onus is now also on Sargisian. AGBU to find the best ways to con - The meeting was supposed to start at 6.30 p.m. tribute for the benefit of the communi - at the Prelacy’s headquarters. The majority of the ty here and the Armenian nation as a delegates were gathered, where a representative of whole.” His remarks underscore the the Iranian minister of interior affairs was also pre- great strides AGBU is making in expand - sent to supervise the elections to the Assembly, At a cultural center in Odessa, Ukraine, AGBU delegates enjoy performances orga - ing its global reach, fostering a deep however around 7 p.m., the representative left and nized in honor of their visit. sense of Armenian national identity that the elections were postponed until April 15-20. transcends borders. Sargisian said. “Our wish is for all the different Markarian, throughout the trip. segments of the community to be part of the meet- Together, they launched the weekend in ing and that is why the elections are being post- the capital, where they met with the poned,” Parliament Speaker Volodymyr Rybak Greece Accuses Turkey of Violating He asked the members of the press not to ascribe and members of Parliament Mher any inaccurate reasons for the postponement. Mkhitaryan and Vilen Shatvoryan, as International Law in Aegean Row An editorial in Tehran’s Arax weekly praised well as heads of several Parliament com - Sargisian’s concern and expressed a wish for a mittees. Bringing the first day to a close, ATHENS (Today’s Zaman) — Greece tus of customary international law and more balanced Prelacy Council. “In our opinion, AGBU Europe Central Board member has accused Turkey of violating interna - is binding on every state. when different ideologies are ignored, the National Gor Abgaryan joined the AGBU dele - tional law in a row over contested The two countries have also taken Assembly is equivalent to the political party and gates, as well as Avakov and Avagyan, waters in the Aegean and the east their dispute to the UN recently. On the community will rot and thus it will drown in for further talks. Mediterranean, stepping up its criticism February 20, Greece sent a diplomatic indifference,” the editorial added. Continuing to Odessa, the AGBU amid growing tensions over the note to the UN outlining its opposition The last elections were held on November 16, leadership got a glimpse of the vibrant decades-old dispute between the two to Turkey’s licensing the TPAO for with the ARF winning 59 percent of the vote and Armenian diaspora communities that neighbors. hydrocarbon exploration in the east the remaining parties splitting the rest of the vote. have shaped the country’s social fabric. Turkey and Greece have been locked Mediterranean, saying the area where On Saturday, February 23, upon arriv - in a dispute for decades over territorial TPAO exploration is set to take place ing in the city, they were welcomed by rights in the Aegean and the east overlaps with Greece’s Exclusive Georgian President, PM key community leaders from across Mediterranean. Economic Zone (EEZ) and the conti - Spar on Armenian Ukraine. In addition to meeting with Despite major political rapprochement nental shelf. the city’s Consul General of the since the late 1990s and growing coop - Turkey denied the Greek claims in a Language Demands Republic of Armenia Georgiy Muradyan, eration, tension over the disputed waters subsequent note to the UN and said the Archbishop Grigoris Buniatyan, Primate has been brewing lately as economic cri - licenses granted to TPAO since 2007 are TBILISI (PanArmenian.net) — The Georgian gov- of the Ukrainian Diocese of the sis-hit Greece hopes to find oil and gas confined to the areas that are within the ernment is facing a new bout of political tensions Armenian Apostolic Church, and reserves in the east Mediterranean. Turkish EEZ and continental shelf. amid Georgian Armenians’ demands for urgent rat- Odessa Armenian Community Chair Turkey also wants to conduct explo - “By rejecting the Greek islands’ right ification of the European Charter for Regional or Samvel Tigranyan, they paid their ration in the disputed region and says to delineate their continental shelf and Minority Languages. respects to the local Soviet World War the state-owned oil company TPAO is the EEZ, Turkey is violating Article 121 President Mikheil Saakashvili, who has strained II hero Marshal Hamazasp Babajanian legally authorized to do so. of the Law of the Sea Convention, relations with Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili, during a memorial ceremony. At the In a statement last week, the Greek which has customary law status and is took a hostile stance on the demand, citing a threat nearby cultural center, they enjoyed a Foreign Ministry claimed that Turkey’s thus binding on all nations,” the Greek to national security. He further accused his oppo- performance, including dance and opera stance is in violation of Article 121 of Foreign Ministry said in its statement, nents of fostering Armenian nationalism. pieces, organized in honor of their visit. the United Nations (UN) Law of the Sea according to the Anatolia news agency The charter ratification urge was voiced in During a final meeting the following Convention, which supports the Greek that reported it in Turkish. It also vowed Samtskhe Javakheti’s Akhalkalaki region, home to day, the delegation outlined concrete position that islands are taken into con - to defend its rights stemming from a predominantly Armenian population. steps toward establishing the new AGBU sideration in the delimitation of sea bor - international law. “We insist that the parliament ratify the charter Chapter, and ways to begin integrating ders. Turkey, on the other hand, insists The disputed area in the east which Georgia [agreed to] in 1999,” the head of the Ukraine’s Armenian diaspora into the continental mainland, not the Mediterranean is believed to have hydro - local parliament, Hamlet Movsisyan, stressed. The the organization’s global network. islands off the Turkish coasts, should be carbon reserves worth $130 billion, a initiative was authored by the members of Alongside Avakov, his colleagues Tigran taken into consideration while deter - significant amount certain to ease Ivanishvili’s Georgian Dream coalition. Avagyan, Artyom Karadjian and mining the boundaries in the Aegean Greece’s debt burden, according to a As the state minister for reintegration noted, in Alexander Avakov, they discussed initiat - because otherwise the Aegean Sea Wall Street Journal article earlier this 1999, Saakashvili was the one who lobbied ing AGBU Young Professionals Groups could be claimed as a Greek lake, leav - month. Georgia’s ratification of the document. and establishing AGBU Armenian Virtual ing Turkey with no territorial rights. Greek Prime Minister Antonis “Saakashvili explained his actions by the intention College Labs in major Armenian commu - Turkey has not signed the Law of the Samaras, accompanied with several min - to expedite Georgia’s accession to the Council of nities within the country. Also on the Sea Convention, meaning that it is not isters from his cabinet, visited Turkey Europe. He was so set on overtaking Armenia and agenda were plans to send students from bound by it. However, the Greek this month. Taking place against the Azerbaijan that he never thought of repercus- the Ukraine to Armenia through AGBU Foreign Ministry statement argued oth - backdrop of the Aegean row, the visit sions,” Paata Zakareishvili said. youth programs such as Camp Antranik, erwise, saying Turkey is still bound by ended with promises to increase trade Discover Armenia, the Musical Armenia the treaty because, having been signed and work together to resolve the Cyprus Program and the Yerevan Summer by 164 countries, the treaty has the sta - dispute. 4 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

Armenian Sentenced to CYSCA Hosts Prison for Health Care Fraud Conspiracy NGO Leaders

BRUNSWICK, Georgia — Khoren Gasparian, 30, an Armenian national, was sentenced last From Armenia Friday by Chief United States District Court CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Five delegates from Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to 41 months in various regions of Armenia will be arriving in prison for his role in a conspiracy to defraud Boston on March 27, to participate in the Open Medicare through phony medical businesses in World program of the US Library of Congress, Savannah, Georgia. hosted by the Cambridge-Yerevan Sister City Gasparian, who at the time of these offenses Association (CYSCA). This program is managed was in the US on an expired visa from Armenia, by the Open World Leadership Center, a sup - previously pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to port agency of the Library of Congress to defraud Medicare. According to the evidence enhance understanding and cooperation presented at Gasparian’s sentencing hearings, between the US and the countries of Eurasia. from 2008 through 2010, Gasparian and others During their stay in Greater Boston, the del - opened medical equipment companies known egates will be engaged in a series of meetings as Healthy Family, SOJ Group and Savana organized under an Open World grant to Medical. Once opened, Gasparian and his CYSCA, covering the topic “NGO Management cohorts stole the identities of hundreds of and Civic Participation.” The five delegates are Medicare beneficiaries, stole the identities of young NGO leaders, all women of average age dozens of doctors and used this stolen infor - 30. They will be accompanied by a facilitator. mation to submit hundreds of thousands of dol - The program includes visits with federal, state lars in phony claims to Medicare for health care and local legislators and their staff to learn services that were never provided. about the US legislative process and especially Gasparian and others used the stolen identi - how NGOs can get involved to further the inter - ties of doctors and patients from multiple dif - ests/issues of their organization. Under a ferent states, including Alaska, California, New recently-enacted law in Armenia, citizens are York and Ohio and even submitted claims for permitted to participate in community council people that were dead at the time they were meetings and submit resolutions for considera - alleged to have been provided medical equip - tion, but few citizens are aware of the proce - ment. Gasparian was also connected with at dures for availing themselves of these rights. least two other phony health care businesses The group includes five NGO mangers: located in California and New Mexico. He was Siranoush Hovakimyan of Yerevan, “The responsible for approximately $1 million worth Future is Yours” NGO, youth organization; of fraudulent claims submitted to Medicare. Gayane Mheryan of Sevan, “Technodrome” US attorney Edward J. Tarver said, “Medicare NGO, development of citizen’s education; fraud affects every American taxpayer. The Ruzan Mkrtchyan of Hrazdan, “Burning Star” United States Attorney’s Office has aggressive - NGO, engaged in environmental issues; ly pursued healthcare fraudsters from around An antique poster from the White Star Line Ruzanna Sargsyan of Meghri, Women’s the world who’ve attempted to set up shop here Resource Center” NGO, involved in women’s in the Southern District of Georgia. The risk of issues; and Narina Tahmazyan of Echmiadzin, detection is high for those who submit fraudu - “Cross of Armenian Unity” NGO, assistance to lent claims to Medicare and the penalty will be Built During the Hamidian orphans, vulnerable and underprivileged chil - substantial.” dren. Also joining the group is the facilitator “Criminals who steal from federal health care Aleksandr Shagafyan of Yerevan, a university programs and taxpayers will be prosecuted to Massacres, Sunk During social studies teacher and director of “Civitas” the fullest extent of the law,” said Derrick L. NGO, a center for democratic education. Jackson, special agent in charge of the US The delegates will meet with US Rep. Edward Department of Health and Human Services, The Genocide Markey and or his local staff, US Sen. Elizabeth Office of Inspector General for the Atlanta Warren and or her staff, state Rep. Jonathan region. “The Office of Inspector General and NICOSIA, Cyprus — The fact that SS Armenian once sailed the high seas and Hecht and other state officials, and Cambridge our law enforcement partners will continue to worked the cargo routes of the North Atlantic is news to most people, including Mayor Henrietta Davis and City Council mem - aggressively pursue these thieves to ensure Armenians. bers. Also, there are scheduled meetings at the they are held accountable.” Built as a freighter, the SS Armenian was a valuable transportation vessel in the Harvard University Ash Center for Democratic Mark F. Giuliano, special agent in charge for profitable cargo service that existed between Great Britain and North America at Governance and Innovation and the Hauser the FBI Atlanta Field Office, stated, “The FBI the turn of the 20th century. The Center of Harvard’s JFK School of Government will continue to work with its various law exact location of its final resting place on topics pertaining to NGOs, civil society and enforcement partners to identify, investigate, By Tigran Kalaydjian remained a mystery until 2008, when anti-corruption. They will also meet with vari - and bring forward for prosecution those indi - its wreck was discovered off the west - ous NGOs and civic organizations such as the viduals such as Gasparian who would steal ern coast of England and it was seen Cambridge Community Foundation, Cambridge funds from much needed federal programs such for the first time since World War I. Peace Commission, Armenian General as Medicare.” For a ship born during the Hamidian massacres, it was perhaps inevitable that Benevolent Union Young Professionals (AGBU- In addition to being sentenced to 41 months it would meet its doom in that darkest of years — 1915 — at the same time as the YP), Armenian Business Network (ABN), in prison, Gasparian was ordered to pay restitu - people with whom she shared her name were being slaughtered. Boston Foundation, City of Cambridge Human tion in the amount of $182,735 and to serve The SS Armenian was built in 1895 by Harland & Wolff, the Belfast shipyard that Services Department, Third Sector New three years of supervised release upon comple - would later become famous for making the legendary trio Titanic, Olympic and England, Armenian International Women’s tion of his prison sentence. There is no parole Britannic. The vessel was 156 meters long and had a displacement of 8,825 tons. Association (AIWA) and the National in the federal system. The ship was launched on November 25, 1895 as the SS Indian for Frederick Association for Armenian Studies and Research At the time of his guilty plea in Georgia, Leyland & Co, but wasn’t delivered until September of the following year, by which (NAASR). Gasparian was serving a prison sentence based time it had been renamed the SS Armenian. CYSCA has recruited host families to provide on his guilty plea to a health care fraud offense With very little contact between Great Britain and a nation called Armenia, the housing and meals for the delegates as well as in the US District Court for the district of New clue behind the sudden name change lies in the events inundating the British first-hand interaction with American family life. Mexico. After Gasparian finishes serving his press throughout 1895. During this time, the sultan and the ruling elite of the The delegates will have the opportunity to prison sentences, he will face immigration pro - Ottoman Empire were diligently putting into action their final solution to the enjoy Easter Church services and family din - ceedings that will likely result in his deporta - ‘Armenian Question,’ a solution which required the destruction of the empire’s ners with their host families. In addition, tion to Armenia. Armenian minority as a cohesive unit and its dispersal throughout the country. CYSCA has organized cultural activities for the In addition to the Southern District of This policy involved forced assimilation, the settling of Turks in Armenian-pop - delegates during their free time on the week - Georgia, numerous charges were filed in New ulated regions, the incitement of Moslem fanatics and Kurdish militias to commit end, touring Boston’s historic sites, museums, York, Los Angeles, Cleveland and Albuquerque. atrocities against unarmed Armenians and a plan of organized, indiscriminate and the Armenian Heritage Tribute and The investigation in the Southern District of killing of men, women and children by the sultan’s military. Genocide Memorial on Boston’s Rose Kennedy Georgia was the result of a multi-agency team of Starting in the late summer of 1894, the massacres of Armenians had gradual - Greenway. federal, state and local agents, led by the ly grown in scale and reach, eventually encompassing several large provinces in the There are also scheduled evening events with Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI,) the east of the empire. the AGBU Young Professionals, as well as a Department of Health and Human Services- In October 1895, reports of the slaughter of hundreds of Armenian men in the panel discussion with AIWA members. Office of the Inspector General (HHS/OIG) and town of Erzurum provoked shock and indignation across the world. Newspaper CYSCA program director Jack Medzorian Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE,) articles regularly depicted the sultan as a bloodthirsty tyrant, a butcher of women commented, “We are excited about the oppor - working together to combat health care fraud. and children, and sympathy for the Armenians was widespread. Leading tunity to host these young leaders from Assistant US Attorney Brian T. Rafferty pros - see SHIP, page 5 Armenia. We have designed a program to give ecuted the case on behalf of the US govern - them a better understanding of their American ment. see CYSCA, page 7 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS Built During the Hamidian Massacres, Sunk During the Genocide SHIP, from page 4 by the British authorities to serve as a trans - US to Bristol, England. The animals were Americans lost their lives, the sinking of the newspapers such as the Times, Morning Post, port in the Boer War, and in 1901, it was used intended as replacements for the horses that Armenian caused a second crisis between Daily News, New York Times and Le Petit to transport 963 Boer prisoners of war to had been lost in the fighting in France. Germany and the US, as the majority of the Parisien published articles and editorials by Bermuda. At around 6:30 p.m. on June 28, while head - men who died were again American. Much was prominent public figures condemning the After the war, in March 1903, the ship’s man - ing northeast off Trevose Head, Cornwall, a made in the press of this fact, with both the Turkish crimes. agement was taken over by the White Star Line watchman on the Armenian sighted a German British and French papers doing their best to Eyewitness accounts brought home the mag - — the same company that would come to oper - submarine. In what proved to be an erroneous fan the flames of anti-German sentiment in the nitude of the massacres, filling the public both ate the RMS Titanic just a few years later — and decision, Captain James Trickey ordered the US, with the hope of drawing America into the in Europe and America with disgust and anger. it resumed its cargo service between Liverpool ship ahead full-steam in an attempt to outrun war. One account sent by a Catholic prelate While the propaganda war raged in stationed in Western Armenia described a the newspapers, President Woodrow typical scene: “Over the whole province Wilson considered the Armenian inci - the work of destruction has been pursued, dent before making any official pro - every town, every hamlet having been nouncements, preferring to wait until given over to pillage and murder. The the investigation was over. His procras - inhabitants who have been spared have tination proved expedient. The ship was been stripped of everything of use or undeniably engaged in the transporta - value. Those who fled from the doomed tion of contraband to England — work districts were pursued and cut down mer - animals destined for the Allied armies cilessly, without regard to age or sex, by fighting in France — and this made it a the barbarous Turks. The bodies of many legitimate target according to most children and young girls lie under the experts. charred debris of the ruined homes.” Even though the accepted rules of By 1896, close to 300,000 innocent lives engagement regarding the sinking of had been lost throughout the Armenian merchant ships in wartime required a highlands. ‘stop and search’ approach, it was estab - In a speech delivered in Liverpool that lished that not all U-boat commanders year, former UK Prime Minister William obeyed these rules. However, the inves - Gladstone protested vehemently against tigation found that Rudolf Schneider the atrocities and called for resolute action The SS Armenian had indeed tried to stop the ship before by the European powers against the Turks. opening fire with the deck gun. It is like - Against this background, there is little ly that had Trickey complied with the doubt that the unremitting suffering of the and New York. the U-boat, which turned out to be the U-24. order to stop, the SS Armenian would have Armenians would have been ingrained in the In 1910, it was repainted in the distinctive The captain was signaled to stop and surrender been spared. consciousness of the wider British public. Leyland insignia — a pink funnel with a black after two shots were fired across the ship’s bow, The furor caused by the sinking of the With the constant flow of news reports caus - top. but he refused. The U-boat’s commander, Armenian eventually abated because of the cir - ing outrage and clamors for justice, it is under - The Armenian completed its peacetime Rudolf Schneider, then opened fire with the cumstances surrounding the event, and the US standable why the people behind the building assignment in March 1914, before being briefly deck gun, scoring several hits on the Armenian, did not declare war on Germany until April of the SS Armenian would choose to rename laid up prior to its deployment as a horse trans - one shot taking out the Marconi room. 1917. the vessel. It may have been a small but signifi - port during World War I. Although not fitted as After more than a dozen men lay dead or In 2002, amateur divers claimed they had dis - cant gesture, an expression of solidarity with a passenger vessel, it was used to transport the injured on the deck, Trickey finally agreed to covered the wreck of the SS Armenian, but the Armenian people in their hour of torment Grenadier Guards, an infantry regiment of the surrender. Much to his surprise, he and the their claim was proven incorrect (the wreck was and agony. British armed forces, to Belgium on the crew were treated well by the Germans from of the auxiliary cruiser HMS Patia.) Fitted out with stables to transport horses, October 7, 1914. that point on. With several lifeboats damaged The SS Armenian was finally located and the SS Armenian commenced its maiden voy - The SS Armenian began its final voyage in from the shelling, they were allowed to take the identified by wreck hunter and archaeologist age from Liverpool to Boston on September 28, June 1915 with 175 men onboard. It was char - remaining boats and make for the Cornish Innes McCartney in 2008. The discovery was 1896. Three years later the ship was contracted tered to carry a cargo of 1,422 mules from the coast. The Armenian was then sunk by two tor - featured on the History Channel in an episode pedoes fired into its stern. It went down in min - of Deep Wreck Mysteries titled, “Search for the utes. Bone Wreck.” The survivors were picked up the following The ship sits upright in 95 meters of water, day by the Belgian steam trawler President 45 miles from the reported location given by Stevens. Four of the injured died before they the British crew at the time of the sinking. A could be rescued. mass of animal bones was found inside the ship, 29 men lost their lives, including 19 a testament to the hundreds of animals whose Americans. The Armenian needed hands to deaths were but a minor statistic in a global tend to the mules, so many of the 175 men conflagration that claimed millions of lives and onboard were muleteers who had been hired at provided ideal cover for the commission of one Newport News, Virginia, before sailing. Of the of mankind’s greatest ever crimes — the 29 fatalities, 12 were muleteers who refused to Armenian Genocide. abandon the animals and preferred to go down with the ship. Most of the victims were African (Tigran Kalaydjian is the author of Americans. Sentinel of Truth: Gourgen Yanikian and the Following the sinking of the RMS Lusitania Struggle Against the Denial of the Armenian 52 days earlier, in which more than 100 Genocide [2012.])

Pasadena Community Foundation Provides Grant for Genocide Memorial

PASADENA, Calif. — The Pasadena onds. Each “teardrop” will represent a life lost Community Foundation (PCF) has approved a that was lost during the Armenian Genocide. $5,000 grant to fund the Armenian Genocide Beginning with the Pashgian Family, who Memorial Project to remember the 1.5 million opened a rug business on Colorado Boulevard people who lost their lives in the Armenian in the late 1800s, Armenian-Americans have Genocide. been an integral part of the Pasadena com - “This memorial will serve as a reminder of munity for more than 100 years. The commit - the most devastating event in the history of tee hopes to raise more than $100,000 to the Armenian people,” stated Pasadena build the memorial with an official ground - Community Foundation board member breaking anticipated for 2014 and the dedica - Margaret Mgrublian. “It is important that it be tion of the completed memorial planned for recognized. Understanding each of our unique April 24, 2015, marking the 100th anniversary backgrounds is the single most important of the Genocide. aspect of living together as a community.” PCF, established in 1953, will celebrate 60 PCF Executive Director Jennifer DeVoll years of service to Pasadena this year with an added, “This grant supports an important cul - event scheduled for October at the Langham. tural project within the Armenian community, PCF raises and manages charitable endow - honoring their heritage.” ments to provide funding to six targeted areas, The Pasadena Armenian Genocide each representing resources that merit sup - Memorial Committee (PASAGMC) recently port in the Pasadena community. These selected a design for the memorial by Art include: arts and culture, education, environ - Center College of Design student Catherine ment, health, human services and youth. Menard. The central feature in Menard’s mini - For more information on the Pasadena malist design is a single droplet of water that Community Foundation, visit will fall from the highest point every three sec - www.pasadenacf.org. 6 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Pharmacist, Physician to Be Honored at April 6 Program

WATERTOWN — On a regular basis, the sole proprietor of his own pharmacy, Rawson Laboratory at MGH. Armenian American Pharmacists Association Pharmacy, in Arlington, from 1967 to 1980. He Goudsouzian and his wife of 45 years, Mary, and the Armenian American Medical was then hired by the Commonwealth of have been active in St. James Armenian Church Association collaborate and host an event, usu - Massachusetts Board of Registration in for 40 years. He is active in several other orga - ally to honor one of their own. This year such a Pharmacy as a Board Special Agent/Inspector nizations such as the Armenian General tribute will take place again, on April 6, at the from 1980 to 1987. Partamian was appointed Benevolent Union, National Association for Oakley Country Club. The honorees are phar - as executive secretary/director of the Board of Armenian Studies and Research, the Friends of macist Harold Partamian and Dr. Nishan Registration in Pharmacy from 1987 to 1994. Armenian Culture Society, the Armenian Goudsouzian. After retiring from the board, he became Cultural Foundation and the Armenian Partamian is devoted to his profession, com - adjunct faculty assistant director of continuing American Medical Association. The munity, family and friends. His professional education and adjunct instructor in pharmacy Goudsouzians have received the St. Nerses career began in 1957, when he obtained his law for Northeastern University’s Bouve School Shnorhali Medal from the Catholicos of all degree of bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from of Pharmacy. He later became staff pharmacist Armenians. the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital, until Furthermore, Armenia has a special place in became staff pharmacist for local pharmacies his retirement in 2000. During this time, he also the heart of the Goudsouzians. Twice he went and Massachusetts General Hospital. He served founded and was the first president of the with Project Hope, the first time to organize in the US Army National Guard Medical Corps Armenian American Pharmacists Association, bringing earthquake victims to the United and as Staff Sergeant Specialist. He was the which has been in operation for more than 30 States, and the second time to establish a reha - years. bilitation unit. He has been sending large ship - He serves on the Board of Directors of the Dr. Nishan Goudsouzian ments of medical supplies every two to three Armenian Heritage Foundation, is a member of months through the United Armenia Fund and the Knights of Vartan, Armenian Business the Knights of Vartan for the last 20 years. Network, Armenian Assembly of America and serves in his 47th year. He has also volunteered his time in providing much more. Besides his obligations as a full-time pediatric anesthesia for handicapped children on the He and his wife, Gladys, have been married anesthesiologist, Goudsouzian has been inter - Mercy Ship in Port Antonio, Jamaica. for 54 years and both are active in the St. James ested in clinical research. He has published Goudsouzian, being the foremost expert on Armenian Church. more than 150 medical and research publica - muscle relaxants in children and a distin - Goudsouzian, a highly respected physician, was tions and has written two books. He was found - guished leader in the field of pediatric anesthe - born in Cairo, Egypt and attended the Mkhitarist ing editor and chairman of the editorial board sia, was honored with the Robert M. Smith School and LaSalle College, and obtained his of the Pediatric Anesthesia Journal. In 1999, Award from the American Academy of medical degree from Cairo University. He then Harvard Medical School bestowed on him the Pediatrics last year and received the Ellis Island immigrated to the United States and enrolled at title of “Professor of Anesthesia,” with an hon - Medal of Honor. Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia for a orary MA degree. He has traveled and lectured The program honoring the two men will take master’s degree in physiology. in more than 20 countries and been invited to place on April 6 at the Oakley Country Club Goudsouzian did his residency and fellowship nominate candidates for the Nobel Prize. He is starting at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails. The John training in anesthesia at Massachusetts General also on the International Advisory Board of Boboian Quartet and special guest Steve Hospital. He served in the US Army as a major. the Medical School of Yerevan University. Marvin will present a musical tribute to Frank Following his honorable discharge, he rejoined Presently, Goudsouzian is the principal anes - Sinatra. Reservations may be made through Harold Partamian the staff of Massachusetts General Hospital as a thesiologist of the Harvard Cyclotron Physics www.aapha.org. pediatric anesthesiologist, where he currently Nardolillo Funeral Home For Felix Gregorian, Military Est. 1906 Service Comes Before Self John K. Najarian, Jr. Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director by quickly. I am grateful for all your care pack - 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 By Tom Vartabedian ages.” 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 During a previous return home following a year’s tour, Gregorian thanked God and his fam - www.nardolillo.com CHELMSFORD, Mass. — When Felix ily for his safety. Gregorian decided to make the military his “As a soldier, you’re prepared to lose your life career, he did not realize that in time he would for a cause,” he had said. “I could have been be deployed four times to a hostile land and be taken out by the bad guys at any time. God is Telephone (617) 924-7400 promoted to the rank of major. watching over me.” But that is the fate of this soldier as he con - Gregorian had undergone embedded tactical Aram Bedrosian tinues to give his time and energy to the coun - training with the Afghanistan National Army try he loves. while assigned with the Army Reserve 108th As conditions continue to remain hostile in Institutional Training Division. His job was Funeral Home, Inc. Afghanistan, Gregorian bides teaching allied forces medical Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 his time fulfilling his mission procedures. while two sons, both in the mil - He has spent 20 years with MARION BEDROSIAN itary, and a wife named the military and hopes to con - 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN Candace, await his safe return. tinue his service with no specif - WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN “My family is very special to ic timetable. He works as a res - me,” said Gregorian. “They piratory therapist in civilian life went to St. Gregory’s Armenian and has volunteered as part of Church for years and, now, in a medical team that treats chil - their adult years, the spirit con - dren needing cardiac care in tinues.” Africa. His son, Greg, wrote about Gregory Arabian, comman - the Armenian cause while der of Belmont American GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E attending West Point. A second Veterans (AMVETS) Post, laud - son, Dro, wore the colors of ed his peer for his vast contri - James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Army Major Felix Gregorian Annapolis and topped his class butions to military service. Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors at Navy Squadron School in Gregorian is a charter member Colorado and is currently serving as a carrier of the post. 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 pilot. He, too, has kept his Armenian heritage “This major promotion comes after his fourth www.giragosianfuneralhome.com intact. The boys were honor students and ath - tour of duty in Afghanistan, where he is train - letes at Chelmsford High. ing Afghan security forces to take over the secu - “I have sacrificed my personal time to look rity mission of that distant country,” said after my family,” he added. “Just like anything Arabian. “Felix has a long and enviable record, Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a else, it does make a difference. Hopefully, our both as a civilian and as a military officer.” experiences have set an example for the chil - Gregorian immigrated to the US from Iran dren.” and quickly developed a love and loyalty for his In a letter sent to friends at St. Gregory adopted land. He worked diligently in his mili - Edward D. Jamie, Jr. Church in North Andover, Gregorian said he tary pursuits, rising from the enlisted ranks to was doing well in Afghanistan, despite the an officer. ServiFnguthne eentrireaAlrmCenhianaCpomemlunity deployments. Gregorian works with Afghan “Not only did he excel personally,” said Any Hour • Any Distance • Any Location Arabian, “he supported and encouraged his two security forces and sometimes interfaces with Call (718) 224-2390 Toll Free (888) 224-6088 Armenian contingents at camp. children to serve the military. He has proven “I speak Armenian, Farsi and English in the himself to be a model citizen, an outstanding Bus. Reg. 189-06 Liberty Ave., Hollis, NY 11412 course of a few minutes,” he noted. “Time goes member of the community.” Consultation Office: 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside,NY 11361 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS US Congressmen Celebrate 25th Anniversary of Artsakh Independence

New Chair for Armenian ticipated in the event while Representatives Azerbaijan in freeing Ramil Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Jackie Speier (D-CA) Safarov, an Azerbaijani sol - Caucus Named provided written statements. Also, dier who brutally murdered Representative Grimm announced that he was an unarmed Armenian sol - WASHINGTON — Members of Congress, the honored to assume the role of Armenian dier during a NATO-spon - diplomatic corps, and Armenian community Caucus Co-Chair and looked forward to work - sored training program in leaders and activists marked the 25th anniver - ing with his colleagues and the community on Hungary...These are not the sary of Artsakh’s freedom movement during a these important issues. actions of a government that March 13th Congressional event on Capitol Both Royce and Schiff expressed their strong is dedicated to justice and Hill, reported the Armenian Assembly. concerns about the Azerbaijani pardon last peace. Unfortunately, the Hosted by the Congressional Caucus on September of Ramil Safarov, who was convict - actions taken by Azerbaijan only further confirm their desire to facilitate and con - done violence against Armenia and its people.” In addition, the National Security Council issued a statement highlighting President Barack Obama’s Former Assembly Intern Alissa Tabirian, Rep. Michael Grimm (R- deep concerns and noted that NY) and Bryan Ardouny “this action is contrary to ongoing efforts to reduce regional tensions and promote reconciliation.” rights of people.” The evening also featured remarks by Tatoul Avetisyan expressed appreciation for the sup - Markarian, Armenia’s ambassador to the United port they felt from the very beginning 25 years States, Artsakh’s Minister of Youth and Culture ago, and that they feel today. Avetisyan was Narine Aghabalyan as well as by NKR optimistic about the future and hoped that Representative in the US Robert Avetisyan. Congress and American people will continue to Markarian in his remarks reflected that support human rights and freedoms through - “Artsakh’s history over the past quarter centu - out the world, including the people of Artsakh ry has been one of democratic triumph over in particular. intolerance, violence, war, and blockade. The “Nagorno Karabagh is all about freedom. people of this ancient Christian land have, with Freedom was the inspiration for the Nagorno the generous support of the American people, Karabagh democracy movement back in 1988. Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), NKR Minister Narine Aghabalyan, Assembly Executive Director Bryan overcome Azerbaijani aggression, and — against Freedom has been the cornerstone of this Ardouny and NKR Representative Robert Avetisyan all odds and in the face of ongoing attacks — built a free and democratic society and a mar - ket-oriented economy. Meanwhile, what we cel - Armenian Issues, House Foreign Affairs ed of brutally murdering an Armenian officer, ebrate today is not limited solely to Karabagh’s Committee Chairman Edward Royce (R-CA), Gurgen Margaryan, with an axe while the latter aspiration and struggle. It surely obtained Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA), newly mint - was sleeping. Both officers were participating much broader meaning. It marked the begin - ed Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Michael Grimm in a NATO Partnership for Peace training pro - ning of enormous transformations, which in (R-NY) and Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Frank gram in 2004 in Hungary. fact, started by this very movement, that in Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) spoke about the importance The Azeri pardon was also roundly con - many ways inspired the liberation process of Karabagh’s right to self-determination and demned by Caucus Co-Chair Pallone last year throughout the Soviet Space, bringing eventu - the importance of a peaceful resolution to the stating at that time: “I am outraged by the reck - ally an end to the Cold War.” NK conflict. Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI) also par - less actions taken by the government of Aghabalyan emphasized that “the Nagorno Karabagh Republic is a legal state, which was created through the free expression of the democratic will of the people of Karabagh, and it is, in fact, the non-recognition of this state that contradicts international laws and norms.” Aghabalyan also stated that “the Karabagh movement started at the end of 1980s. It was the period of Gorbachev’s Perestroika, a new approach was initiated in the Soviet Union. It gave people a hope for democratic change and inspired them to speak out about problems that Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Bryan Ardouny had existed in the Soviet Union for decades, but were subjected to a ‘symbolic silence’ under the Communist regime. The Karabagh issue was proud Republic’s remarkable growth over the one of those problems, and, I am proud to say, past quarter century. And, today, 25 years later, we were the first to break the silence.” freedom remains the key to finding a peaceful Underscoring the importance of the democ - and democratic way to finally bring an end to ratic will of the people, Aghabalyan invoked a Azerbaijan’s aggression,” said Armenian quote by Thomas Jefferson: “Everything is National Committee of America Executive changeable in the world except the natural Director Aram Hamparian.

CYSCA Hosts NGO Leaders From Armenia

CYSCA, from page 4 counterparts in civic programs and especially for them to have the chance to engage in fruitful dis - cussions with youthful leaders in the American community on civil society and democratic gov - ernance”. The delegates will encourage return vis - its to Armenia by persons they contact to contin - ue dialogue and establish cooperation on joint programs of mutual interest. The Open World program currently operates exchanges for political and civic leaders from Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. CYSCA was organized in 1987 to foster exchanges between citizens of Cambridge, MA and Yerevan, Armenia on cultural, civic, profes - sional, educational, environmental and business Entertainment Fridays themes. For more information see and Saturdays www.CYSCA.org, or contact CYSCA Program director, Jack Medzorian at jmedzori - [email protected] or Project Manager Alisa Stepanian at [email protected]. 8 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Ne w York M E T R O HMADS Gala Dinner Dance to Take Place in June

BAYSIDE, N.Y. — In 1994, almost 20 years ago, an ambitious group of Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School (HMADS) supporters gathered together to establish an all-volun - teer fundraising committee known as Friends of HMADS. Under the leadership of then school By Arpi Arukian Board Chairman Nurhan Adarian, they strived to carry out their mission to become the financial pillar of the school. Little did they realize what an impact their service to HMADS would have in the years to follow. Surpassing mandated New York State education standards, HMADS supplements its cur - riculum with daily lessons in Armenian language, history and culture. Class sizes are small, allowing for a more personal and nurturing environment, and the overall experience at the school helps not only to enhance knowledge but also to develop a strong character. The school is unique in that the members of its community are regarded as family, and its strength lies in their cooperative spirit and unified efforts to achieve a common goal. Friends of HMADS, chaired by Board Treasurer Hovannes Malikyan, is a dedicated group comprising school supporters (board members, current and former parents, alum - ni, etc.) whose goal is to raise funds, consequently contributing to the economic growth of the school. Year after year, the committee provides the school with a balanced budget and financial stability. Thanks to the efforts of Friends, HMADS is able to maintain affordable tuitions. The Friends committee meets semi-monthly at the school to create, discuss and plan social and cultural events that, in addition to raising funds, will also benefit the Armenian community as a whole. Every fall, it sponsors the Annual Telethon, one of its major fundraising events. For several years, Berj Haroutunian of Vital Transportation has offered use of his company office and equipment to Telethon volunteers who, over the course of two evenings, call hundreds of local Armenian households to seek pledges sup - porting the school. The most anticipated Friends event of the year is the annual Gala Dinner Dance held in the spring. Looking up to the high standards in community service set by honorary booklet co-chairs Noubar and Ann Mahdessian, members of Friends of HMADS and school supporters will once again turn this important fundraiser into a success. All the members of the community are invited to attend this celebration on Saturday, June 8 at the Garden City Country Club in Long Island. The program will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour followed by dinner at 9 p.m. Musical entertainment will be provided by Montreal’s Kevork Artinian and his band. For more information about supporting the school or attending the event, contact the The Friends of HMADS school office. 98th Anniversary Commemoration Arof thme enianGenocide Friday, April 19, 2013, 10:30 am Keynote Speech House of Representatives Chamber • Massachusetts State House Ambassador John Evans

At noon, participants are invited to march to Joint Senate/House the Armenian Heritage Park for additional remarks, music and a brown bag lunch. Resolution Recipient: For more information contact: Senator Will Brownsberger 617-722-1280 Donald Tellalian Representative Jon Hecht 617-722-2140 Architect of the Representative Dave Rogers 617-722-2400 Armenian Heritage Park Representative John Lawn 617-722-2304 Lalig Musserian, Coordinator 617-319-2651

Buses will be leaving at 9:00 am from St. James and St. Stephen’s Churches (Buses generously provided by the Knights of Vartan) S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 Ne w York M E T R O HMADS Celebrates 25 Years of Young Scientists and Inventors

and learned about some of the creatures that By Kristen Reed live there. The second grade traveled back in time to explore and learn about some “Dino- Mite Dinosaurs” that once roamed the earth. OAKLAND GARDENS, N.Y. — The 25th The third grade learned about different Anniversary of Holy Martyrs Armenian Day “Weather and Natural Disasters” that can School (HMADS) Science Fair took place affect people all around the Earth. The March 12 to 15. Students from each grade fourth grade learned about three types of made excellent presentations and celebrated energy, “Heat, Light and Sound,” and per - the 25th anniversary of the Invention Center. formed experiments displaying their proper - Guest speakers taught the students and audi - ties. The fifth grade students focused on ence new facts and some interesting science “Geology,” displaying different types of rocks. experiments took place. And lastly, the sixth grade presented Nursery students did a presentation about “Experimenting with Liquids.” “The Solar System.” “The Life-Giving Seed” A few of the students got creative this year was planted by the Kindergarten students. and had more than one invention. All the The first grade jumped into “Oceans of Fun” inventions were well thought out with pur -

Young scientists in grades 4-6 with the panel of judges

pose; all were well put together and were well Third grader Olivia Nercessian presented displayed. Special guests from the Armenian us with an erupting volcano and Olivia Engineers and Scientists of America (AESA): Abajian created a tornado; from Fourth Vahan Tanal, Aram Setian, Savid Michaelian grade: Emma showed us how insulators and Hovhannes Mardirossian. The guests work; Haig showed us how reflection and were also the judges for the invention center. refraction play with our eyes; and Michelle Not only were they the judges, but they also displayed to us different sounds. From Sixth taught us about their organization which grade, all the students presented different originated in Glendale, and is fairly new to experiments with liquids. A few of the exper - the New York/New Jersey area, but is surely iments included: Aline creating frost and Ani growing and expanding. Based on the engi - fog; Melanie showed us density and Edward neers’ grading the Invention Center winners pressure. were: First prize, Anoush Bezjian, sixth After three days, the students were split grade; second prize, Danielle Ashbahian, into two teams, yellow and green, and played sixth grade; third place, Michelle Ashbahian, Trivia. Questions were created by each of the The kindergarten students with their teacher and Principal Zarmine Boghosian fourth grade; fourth prize, Margaret Sakar, teachers based on the knowledge of their stu - fifth grade. dents and what they learned during the Janet Marcarian taught the students about Science Fair - from the presentations, to the their genetic makeup and DNA, teaching why guest speakers, and the experiments, both in we have the traits that we do, such as eye English and in Armenian. color, hair color, skin color, height, etc., with Special thanks go to Kariné Kocharyan a presentation of the Punnett Square. Dr. from VOA Armenian TV for allowing students Nayat Bostanci, DDS, focused on oral to present the Science Fair outside the walls hygiene. of Holy Martyrs.

Hasan Cemal to Be Honored by Knights and Daughters of Vartan

TENAFLY, N.J. — The Knights and of almost two million Armenians and even visit - Daughters of Vartan will honor Hasan Cemal, ed the Armenian Genocide memorial in Yerevan grandson of Young Turk Leader Jemal Pasha, five years ago. He writes in his book: “To deny on Saturday, April 13, at St. Thomas Armenian the Genocide would mean to be an accomplice Church. in this crime against humanity.” Cemal, a journalist, scholar and author, will be presented with the National Award Banquet. The evening will also serve as an opportunity to introduce the honoree’s new book, titled 1915: Armenian Genocide. The book, which has become a bestseller in Turkey, presents factual information about the Armenian Genocide and speaks about Cemal’s per - sonal journey from some - one who denied the Armenian Genocide to someone who not only recognizes it, but is will - ing to come forth and publish a book on his find - Hasan Cemal ings. In addition to evidence and his personal story, passages from Cemal’s The banquet will take place in Saddler Hall of grandfather, Jemal Pasha, one of the master - St. Thomas Armenian Church, starting with a minds behind the Armenian Genocide, are also cocktail hour at 7 p.m., followed by dinner at 8 quoted from his own memoirs dated from 1919. p.m. Donation is $125 per person. Limited seat - Although Turkey continues to deny the ing is available. For reservations, call the Genocide, Cemal acknowledges the massacres church. 10 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

‘Légion Arménienne’ Exhibit Opening at Pinajian’s French Cultural Paintings Center on April 4 Reportedly

BOSTON — The French Cultural Center in Boston will host a public reception on April 4 Worth Millions from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. to mark the official open - ing of an exhibit about the Armenian Legion in World War I. Developed by the Armenian By Dominic Gover Library and Museum of America (ALMA) in Watertown, this traveling exhibit offers a NEW YORK (International Business glimpse into the formation, training, military Times) — A collection of paintings by an action and postwar activities of the Armenian artist who died in obscurity are expected Legion volunteers, who fought with the Allies to fetch up to $30 million at auction in to victory in the Middle East during the Great New York. War, and risked all in defense of human rights. Arthur Pinajian devoted his life to art but The story of the Armenian Legion forms a never won acclaim for his work. He spent chapter in the long history of relations between years toiling away on canvases and relying the French and Armenian peoples. The Legion upon his sister for financial support. was formed during the darkest days of WWI, The pair lived together and dreamed when the Allies (France, England and Russia) that he would attain notoriety, but these were deadlocked in a military stalemate on both dreams were never realized. Pinajian grew the European and Middle Eastern fronts increasingly frustrated and eventually against the combined forces of Germany, withdrew from the world to devote him - Austria and Turkey. Leaders of the Armenian Wilmington High School senior Francis Norton with his symphony composition self to painting. Diaspora determined to raise a volunteer fight - One of Pinajian’s final wishes when he ing force to support the Allies. In October 1916, died in 1999 at the age of 85 was for his an agreement was reached in London between art to be thrown into a bonfire. But even the Armenian representative Boghos Nubar Wilmington Student this wish was ignored. Pasha and the governments of France and Now a collection of his work, Great Britain to form an Armenian Legion, unearthed in a rundown cottage in Long made up of volunteers who were to be orga - Composes Armenian Island, could net the owners a large sum nized, trained and led by French officers. of money. Consisting of a force of more than 4,000 That is because, as with Vincent Van Armenians from all parts of the world, the Symphony for Martyrs Gogh, Pinajian has found posthumous acclaim after enduring a lifetime of criti - WILMINGTON, Mass. — After learning about the Armenian Genocide for the very cal and public failure. first time, Francis Norton was looking for an outlet for the emotions the tragedy His paintings are currently hanging in inspired. New York galleries and commanding The Wilmington High School senior harnessed these emotions in order to com - prices of $87,000 each. A total of 3,000 pose an Armenian symphony he aptly named Hellfire . images, including abstract expressionist Norton debuted the piece in his Facing History and Ourselves Genocide Studies course taught by Lisa Joy Desberg and Maura Tucker. The two-minute piece contains a movement done with cello, violin, piano and brass in multiple key and tempo changes, much like the early work by Alan Hovhaness. One might find the piece eerie at first, but that is exactly the atmosphere the com - poser says he hopes to convey. “It is a dark theme that inspired the By Tom Vartabedian Armenian Genocide,” says Norton. “I thought of the mood and subject matter. In some instances, I had to stop writing Armenian Legionnaires from the US, training in when I thought about the torment and depression this nation faced. I felt the pain Cyprus in 1916 of the victims.” Discovering Pinajian’s paintings in Long Members of the Armenian Genocide Education Committee of Merrimack Valley Island cottage have made repeated visits to the school each semester, as well as other communities throughout Greater Boston and Merrimack Valley. Legionnaires were trained in Cyprus and then paintings, World War II sketches and illus - While student essays on the subject of the Armenian Genocide are not unusual, joined the Allied forces on the Palestine front, trations have also been salvaged. the involvement of non-Armenian students in these activities and the use of music under the overall command of the British The collection was purchased by Thomas composition as a form of expressing outrage is perhaps a new trend. General Edmund Allenby. Allenby’s brilliant mil - Schultz and his friend Larry Joseph when he “They have a sincere desire to learn from outsiders who’ve approached our school itary strategy soon forced Turkey to withdraw bought a dilapidated bungalow in the hope with such motivation as the Armenians,” Desberg pointed out. “They want to be stu - from the war. The Armenian Legion served as of renovating it. When they realized the dents who make a big difference in the world.” the advance guard as the Allied forces moved house came with paintings, they upped their Norton’s symphony will be performed during a Merrimack Valley Genocide pre - into the Cilician region of Turkey, occupying offer by $2,500. sentation at local churches. Adana, Aintab, Marash and Urfa, and other cen - Pinajian’s cousin, John Aramian, said, “I told them to pick their means of expression,” said Tucker. “Never did I expect ters. Political conditions following the Great “He thought he was going to be the next a musical interlude on genocide.” War impelled the Allies to withdraw their forces Picasso. He believed he would become Other mediums for this class assignment included a poem accompanied by from Turkish territory and the Legion was dis - famous and this would all pay off one day, Armenian khatchkar done and performed by students Michelle Soel and Katie Finn. banded. but it just never happened. The following is an excerpt from the poem: The story of the Armenian Legion, told in “So he became frustrated and with - Giving justice where it’s due, this exhibit through photographs and narra - drew from everything and just painted.” Honoring angels in our sky, tives, reflects the community’s attempts to Pinajian was praised for his dogged So many will not soon forget come to grips with the destruction and devas - devotion to art by American art historian The once-forgotten Genocide. tation following the Armenian Genocide. It also William Innes Homer, who died last year. Another student creation was an Armenian tricolor flag and with a sunflower represents the successful efforts of Armenians “[He was a] lone researcher in a labora - sprouting from the ground. The Armenian word for freedom (azadoutoun) was from different social, economic and political tory pursuing knowledge for its own etched on the side. backgrounds to work together for a common sake,” Homer had said of Pinajian. Likewise, students Allie Silva and Danielle O’Brien created an Armenian tri-col - cause. “He pursued his goals in isolation with ored poster board with the following inscription: “The Genocide was an awful thing. ALMA’s traveling exhibit about the Armenian the single-minded focus of a Gauguin or Who knew what misery it would bring? Throughout the struggles of many, there Legion has been exhibited in several venues, Cézanne, refusing to give up in the face of remained hope. Thoughts of lost family members, Armenians had to cope. Never for - from California State University, Fresno, to the public indifference.” getting the lives that were lost. They all came at such a great cost.” University of Michigan-Dearborn and “He was passionate and unequivocally A collage by Mary Torres and Alana Madore depicted turmoil and unrest. They Whitinsville (MA) Town Hall. committed. Ultimately, Pinajian’s work said, “It is easy to learn about genocide in black and white through facts and num - The opening is free and open to the public. reflects the soul of a flawed, yet brilliant, bers, but they cannot account for the unique life of each individual who was sacri - The exhibit will be on display from April 3 artistic genius. When he hits the mark, ficed.” through May 1. The French Cultural Center is especially in his abstractions, he can be see SYMPHONY, page 11 located at 53 Marlborough St. For times and ranked among the best artists of his era,” further details, visit said Homer. http://www.frenchculturalcenter.org/. S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING

Children’s Author Lucine Kasbarian and Editor Mark Geragos Book Signing Wilda Williams to Hold ‘Conversation’ at ALMA Tour to Benefit SOAR WATERTOWN — On Tuesday, April 2, International Children’s Book Day, author Lucine Kasbarian PHILADELPHIA — A longtime supporter of •New York, May 4: The Hovnanian School, will be “In Conversation” with the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief 817 River Road, New Milford, NJ, 1 to 4 p.m. senior book review editor Wilda (SOAR), attorney Mark Geragos and co-author Contact Katie Kashmanian at kkashmani - Williams of Library Journal at the Pat Harris are launching a book-signing tour in [email protected]. Armenian Library and Museum of April, with proceeds to benefit SOAR. •Providence, May 5: La Cucina Restaurant, America (ALMA). Kasbarian and In Mistrial: An Inside Look at the How the 266 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, RI, 2 to 5 p.m. Williams will discuss the challenges Criminal Justice System Works . . . and Contact Michael Hagopian at and benefits of producing material Sometimes Doesn’t , Geragos and Harris, two of [email protected]. in this field, including insights from America’s leading criminal defense attorneys, their work inside publishing. They take readers inside the most compelling and will talk about new directions in sensational trials of the past 20 years. They today’s book publishing area, diver - have worked on cases that involved celebrities sity in children’s books, literacy (Michael Jackson, Chris Brown, Winona Ryder issues and Armenian-Americans and Mike Tyson) and on cases that have made Children’s author Lucine Kasbarian publishing their own writings, ordinary people into celebrities (Susan among other topics. The audience is McDougal, Scott Peterson and Gary Conduit). encouraged to take part in the conversation. Going behind the scenes, the authors assess Kasbarian is author of Armenia: A Rugged Land, an Enduring People (a 1998 Bank the dramatic changes that have occurred in the Street “Best Books of the Year” Selection) and The Greedy Sparrow (an Honor Book in judicial system, making it heavily weighted the 2012 Storytelling World Resources Awards). toward the prosecution. They examine how pol - Kasbarian’s website (lucinekasbarian.com) demon - itics shifted the balance, the strategies that fed strates how one story can act as a resource to teach misconceptions that courts were soft on crime, about cultures on multiple levels, providing study guides, why the OJ Simpson trial spiraled out of con - creative ideas and activities. In addition to writing, trol, and the deep influence of media coverage. Kasbarian has worked as an in-house publicist for major Zeroing in on the error, Geragos and Harris publishing companies and her own concern, Progressive scrutinize defense attorneys, prosecutors, Book Publicity. She is also a political cartoonist. judges, jurors, clients, police and the media, and Wilda Williams has been an editor and reviewer of the roles they play in changing your perception many genres of books at Library Journal for nearly 25 of the truth. years. She also writes her own blog, WildaBookBeast Geragos and Harris will appear in (http://willywaldo.tumblr.com) Philadelphia, Chicago, New Jersey, Providence, International Children’s Book Day has been cele - Boston, Detroit and Coral Gables, Fla. brated since 1967 on the birthday of Hans Christian •Philadelphia, April 14: Armenian Sisters Academy, 440 Upper Gulph Road, Radnor, Andersen. •Boston, May 6: St. James Armenian Church, The event will take place at ALMA’s 3rd Floor Penn., 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Contact George S. Yacoubian Jr. at [email protected]. Charles Mosesian Cultural and Youth Center, Gallery at 7:30 p.m. A light reception will follow the Keljik Hall, 465 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, Editor Wilda Williams •Chicago, April 27: Mike Ditka’s Restaurant, event. Books by Kasbarian will be available for pur - MA, 6 to 9 p.m. Contact Garo Arakelian at chase and signing by the author. The Tremont Hotel, 100 East Chestnut, Chicago, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Contact Anne [email protected]. Galovich at [email protected]. •Detroit, May 8: TBD. Contact Drew Zarmanigian at [email protected]. •Coral Gables: TBD. Contact Jennifer Terzian Goldstein at jgold - [email protected]. SOAR, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2013 established in fall 2005 to provide humanitarian relief to orphaned Armenian children. It has 32 chapters and more than 150 volunteers world - wide and supports 21 facilities in Armenia, two Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor Armenian orphanages in Artsakh, an Armenian orphan day camp in Javakhk, Georgia, four a Teacher’ program has raised over $563,000 Armenian orphanages in Lebanon, and one and reached out to 4,440 teachers and Armenian orphanage in Syria. school workers in Armenia and Karabagh. Wilmington Student £ Composes Armenian Symphony for Martyrs K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have SYMPHONY, from page 10 the teacher’s name and address. Students Chris Palmerino, Patrick O’Connell K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— and Mitchell Goulet designed their own inter - pretation of the Armenian Heritage Park Name Memorial at the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Address Boston, done in the form of a labyrinth. A glob - City State Zip code al configuration with a dove flying in its midst Tel: bears the words, “Give peace a chance.” “We are all deeply touched by this tragedy,” Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 said Desberg and Tucker. “A lot of us are offend - Mail your check with this form to: ed by the fact that Turkey still denies their guilt. TCA Sponsor a Teacher We think it is very important that more people 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 learn about what Armenians had to go through and respect the deaths of so many innocent vic - Your donation is Tax Deductible. tims. It also helps to hear about the story from someone who can relate to it so much.”

Armenian Students’ Association of America, Inc. ASA Journalism Internships for 2013 Two 6-week internships Weekly stipend of $150 Working at two leading English-language newspapers in the United States and Canada The Armenian Mirror-Spectator and The Armenian Weekly Visit our website at [email protected] for further information and application form 12 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING

novel publicly burned. With the aid of projec - tions of actual documents from the Nazi era, Rediscovering Franz Werfel Tress showed how one after the other, political and literary organizations issued black lists of publications considered “damaging” and “unde - sirable,” and therefore banned. Werfel’s name WERFEL, from page 1 vivors of the Armenians massacred by the by the Armenian community. A plaque in features prominently in all the documents, Werfel had experienced World War I first-hand Turks, and that no one was caring for them. As Toulon plays tribute to the sailors who rescued sometimes with several works listed by title, and suffered persecution under the Nazi regime Prof. Andreas Meier from Wuppertal recalled, the Armenians and carries Werfel’s name. The other times, with “complete works.” On one prior to World War II. Although he was born in Werfel could not get their images out of his survivors of Musa Dagh and their descendants, black list put out by the Bavarian Political 1890 in Prague to Jewish parents, as a youth mind and the idea for the book “became viru - though scattered through the world, have an Police, among the 15 books by Werfel, there is Franz did not receive formal religious instruc - lent.” association and members meet every year in a “+” mark added to Musa Dagh . This sign tion and became in fact enamored of Christian The Werfels were not the only author couple September to celebrate their victory. meant that if that book were found in the pos - culture. This was due to a close relationship he travelling in the region at that time, Meier said. Peroomian also reported on how an Armenian session of private persons, in house searches, it had with governess Barbara Simunkova, a There was also Armin Wegner and his wife, and translation had been smuggled into Soviet would be confiscated and the owners put under Catholic who took him to mass and taught him he too set out to write about the Armenian pressure. Publishers and distributors were prayers. His early exposure to both religious Genocide. The story of how the two men ordered not to deliver the book and customs cultures was the source of a theme that was to approached the subject and how a literary con - officials stopped any copies coming across the become a leitmotif in his thoughts and works. troversy ensued was treated by several speakers border into Germany. At 12, a passionate opera goer and Verdi fan (he in Potsdam. Even long after the defeat of Nazi Germany wrote Verdi: Novel of the Opera , 1924), Franz Dr. Rolf Hosfeld, director of the Lepsius and in faraway America, Werfel’s monumental started composing poetry at 16 and his first vol - House, focused on the historical facts behind work has continued to spark hefty political con - ume of verse published in 1911, Der Werfel’s novel, identifying the real-life figures troversy. Most clamorous was the fight around Weltfreund (Friend of the World), was a best - who inspired the leading protagonists in the a film version of The Forty Days of Musa Dagh . seller. Other works in drama and fiction fol - novel: priest Dikran Andreasian (Aram Planned by MGM in Hollywood in 1935, the lowed, many crowned with success. Musa Dagh , Tomasian) and Moses Der-Kaloustian (Gabriel original production never made it into movie which appeared in 1933, was acclaimed and Bagradian), the former military officer who led theatres, due to insistent, heavy-handed intimi - rightly seen as a foreboding to Jews in Germany. the resistance. dation by Turkish authorities. As Dr. Raffi When, in May 1933, his book was publicly In his summary of the account, Hosfeld dis - Kantian from Hannover related, the Turkish burned along with others by the Nazis, Werfel’s tinguished fact from fiction: in addition to the government made known through diplomatic persecution began. He had to flee Vienna after two historical personalities, the story of the channels that it wanted to stop the project, flight up the mountain was true, as which, if completed, would “harm” Armenians in Turkey. Other pressure consisted of threats were the descriptions of the three Armin Wegner Turkish attacks, the signs calling for to ban all MGM films in Turkey, Yugoslavia, help, the altar the resisters built and Bulgaria and Greece, while rumors circulated the fire which alerted the French ship that it was a “Jewish-Armenian plot,” etc. Guichon and led to their rescue. The Armenia in 1935, and later in the 1960s The political impact of Werfel’s work is still felt dramatic encounter between the inspired dissidents and a nationalist revival. In today, in the form of the continuing strife around German humanitarian Dr. Johannes 1988, as the political climate changed, it was Turkish recognition of the past. In a concluding Lepsius and Young Turk War Minister republished. Now there is a memorial plaque roundtable discussion addressing the issue in the Enver Pasha also corresponds to reali - dedicated to Werfel at the Armenian Genocide context of European integration, Markus Merkel, ty, as recorded by Lepsius himself in his monument in Tsitsernakaberd alongside those a Social Democrat who introduced a resolution report. commemorating Lepsius, Wegner and others. on the Armenian Genocide into the German The rest, as Prof. Martin Tamke from But if the novel has brought Werfel recogni - Bundestag in 2005, called for an official exhibit Gottingen detailed, was fiction. Herein tion and praise, it has also been slandered, sup - to be organized in Berlin in 2015. He expressed lies the main difference between the pressed and officially banned. Dr. Werner Tress his hope that the Armenian Diaspora would approaches taken by Wegner and of Potsdam reported that, although Werfel’s wield its influence to promote democratization Werfel. When Wegner read in a news - earlier works had made him famous by 1933, in Armenia as well as in Turkey, lending support paper in 1933 that Werfel was touring after the Nazis took power he was persecuted, to the expanding debate in Turkish civil society to present his new book, he was expelled from a writers’ association, and his around the genocide. shocked and accused the author of hav - ing taken his material. Wegner, who had witnessed the Genocide as a medic Peter Stephan Jungk in the German army, had documented the atrocities in photographs, and later also interviewed survivors, visiting the 1938 Nazi invasion, and, after the Nazis them in camps, could not believe that Werfel entered Paris, he fled Zurich via France for the could have written such a book without having US, where he settled in California. had this first-hand knowledge. In their corre - Who was Franz Werfel really? As Prof. Hans spondence on the controversy, Werfel expressed Dieter Zimmermann of Berlin put it, there were his respect for Wegner’s eyewitness experience, three souls in the author — a German, a Czech but could not acknowledge him as a source. He and a Jewish soul. A member of the celebrated also specified that he had isolated a single Prague circle along with Max Brod, Franz episode for his novel, whereas Wegner, in his Kafka and others, Werfel was a German-speak - diary, had been compiling material for a histor - ing Jew like the majority of his intellectual com - ical account. For Werfel, Tamke said, the aim panions, but they were a tiny minority in was not to write an eyewitness report but poet - Czechoslovakia. Politically they stood apart ry, a work of art. from the other German-speakers, the In addition to researching the saga of the Sudetendland Germans in Bohemia, who were resistance, Werfel also drew on his extensive pro-Nazis. Forced by political developments to knowledge about the Armenian church, or, bet - move from place to place, Werfel often asked ter, churches. As Prof. Hacik Gazer from himself where his “homeland” really was. Erlangen explained, Werfel was familiar with Werfel also had a Christian soul, to be pre - the Armenian churches and cloisters in Venice cise, as Viennese scholar Dr. Olga Koller put it, and Vienna, and the documents in the a Catholic soul. In his works, he “lived between Mkhitarist archives there which provided him two religions” and “felt at home in both.” Thus, with valuable source material. Paul Among the Jews: A Tragedy (1926) and Through his contact with art historian Josef his novel, Jeremiah: Listen to the Voice (1937), Strzygowsky, he learned about Armenian which dealt with Jewish figures, came from the church architecture. Significantly, his references same pen that wrote Barbara oder die in the novel are not limited to the Armenian Frommigkeit (Barbara, or Piety, 1929), Der Apostolic Church, but include several figures veruntreute Himmel (Embezzled Heaven, from the Protestant churches and missionaries, 1939) which relates the tale of a woman seek - thus expressing an “ecumenical” approach. ing assurances of entering heaven, as well as Gazer also noted that Lepsius, before his The Song of Bernadette (1941), featuring the encounter with Enver, had met with the young girl and her vision at Lourdes. If Martin Patriarch Zaven, and that the fictional figure, Buber reacted to his Christian writings with Juliette (Bagradian’s wife) converts from accusations of “betrayal,” his wife, Alma Mahler, Catholicism to the Apostolic Church. pressured him to renounce Judaism. The Forty Days of Musa Dagh made history, His commitment to the Armenian cause was not only as a work of art, but as a political mes - unequivocal. It was during his second trip sage. Prof. Rubina Peroomian, an expert on through the Middle East in 1930, which took Genocide literature from Los Angeles, cited sev - him and his wife through Egypt, Palestine, eral ways it has been honored. There is the new Syria and Lebanon, that he came face to face English translation by David R. Godine which with the issue. In Damascus he saw groups of represents a complete and accurate rendition of abandoned, dirty, hungry children, whose huge the German original. Werfel, “a virtual dark eyes haunted him. When he asked who Armenian saint” and a “national hero,” was they were, he learned that they were the sur - honored with his wife in New York City in 1935 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Young Clarinet Virtuoso Returns C A LENDAR To Boston C A LENDAR

By Ani Hovsepian

BOSTON — On Saturday, March 16, Narek CALIFORNIA Arutyunian, clarinetist, performed with the Longwood Symphony Orchestra in Jordan Hall, APRIL 17 — Chapman University hosts “Genocide & the Obligation under the direction of Ronald Feldman. This to Remember: Elie Wiesel and Richard Hovannisian,” 7 p.m., at was another triumph for Arutyunian, 20, who is the Wallace All Faiths Chapel. The event will focus on genocide and in his second year at Juilliard. the obligation to remember, including preservation of memory, advan - He presented the audience with a musically tages and disadvantages of comparative approaches and relevance to today’s students and youth. The dialogue will draw on the life experi - and technically impeccable performance of NarekReview 3-23 ences of the two writers. Admission is free and open to the public, but Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E-flat A&L tickets and ID are required for entry. Limited tickets are still available at JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO www.chapman.edu/wiesel-events. Chapman University is located 1 BOX WITH TWO OR THREE PIX University Drive, Orange. Photos by Narek Arutyunian, clarinetist, MASSACHUSETTS let, with conductor Ronald Feldman MARCH 28 — Kim Kashkashian, New England Conservatory Narek Arutyunian faculty violist and Grammy Award winner, is joined by her fre - quent recital partner, pianist Lydia Artymiw, for a program of On April 17, Chapman University in Orange, Shostakovich and Schumann, at NEC’s Jordan Hall. Schumann’s Calif., will host “Genocide the Obligation to Fantasiestücke and Shostakovich’s Sonata for Viola and Piano, Remember: Elie Wiesel and Richard Opus 147 will be performed. 8 p.m., free. Hovannisian,” 7 p.m., at the Wallace All Faiths APRIL 12 — “A Stone/ Bronze Age Settlement in Yerevan,” Chapel. 7:30 p.m. presentation by Vladimir Tshagharyan, director of Shengavit Archaeological Preserve; Dr. Mitchell Rothman, Khatchikar in front of the church. A procession will form and march archaeologist, Widener University, Penn; and Dr. Susan Pattie, to St. Stephen’s where another wreath will be laid before continu - director of Armenian Library and Museum of America (ALMA) ing on to the ACEC where the commemorative program will begin. Sponsored by Cambridge Yerevan Sister City Association as part The keynote speaker will be Garen Nazarian, Armenia’s ambassador of the Cambridge Science Festival in cooperation with ALMA to the United Nations. There will also be a musical interlude. ACEC and the National Association of Armenian Studies and Research is located 47 Nichols Avenue, Watertown. (NAASR); hosted at ALMA, 65 Main St., Watertown. Admission is free. APRIL 19 — Armenian Genocide Commemoration at the State NEW HAMPSHIRE Narek Arutyunian performs with the Longwood House, 10:30 a.m., House of Representatives Chamber, Symphony Orchestra in Boston. APRIL 6 — Spring Dance Featuring Armenian and American Massachusetts State House. At noon, participants are invited to Music; 7-11 p.m. at the Ararat Armenian Congregational march from the State House to the Armenian Heritage Park for Church, 2 Salem St., Salem. All ages welcome. Tickets $15, avail - Major . His emotionally rich and exuberant additional remarks, music and a brown-bag lunch. Keynote able at the door. For info, email [email protected]. interpretation was disarmingly genuine and speaker will be former US ambassador to Armenia, John Evans. vibrant, his talent and burst of enormous musi - Donald Tellalian, architect of the Armenian Heritage Park, will cal energy uncanny, completely surprising and receive a joint Senate/House resolution thanking him for his Free Calendar Submissions disarming the unsuspecting audience. The efforts. Free buses will leave at 9 a.m. from St. James and St. Beginning in March, the Mirror-Spectator accepts calendar response was unanimous and instant: a long, Stephen’s Armenian Churches in Watertown, courtesy of the Knights of Vartan. For more information, contact coordinator submissions free of charge. Calendar entries of a maximum standing ovation. of five lines can be submitted to [email protected]; entries Lalig Musserian at (617) 319-2651. Arutyunian was the soloist for the Armenian exceeding five lines will be subject to charge. We encourage Night at the Pops 2012, where he also received APRIL 24 — St. James and St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic readers and community members to submit their events so a standing ovation at the sold out Symphony Churches together with the Armenian Cultural and Education that we may provide readers with a comprehensive calendar Hall. Center (ACEC) will host a Commemoration of the Armenian of events. Genocide on April 24, 6 p.m. The event will begin at St. James for a requiem service, followed by the laying of the wreath at the

NEW YORK — The Book of Meetings 5 (Hantiboomner-5), by Hagop Vartivarian, is a collection of personal interviews with benefactors, writers, politicians and members of clergy from all over the Armenian Diaspora and Armenia. Among them are, Nazar Nazarian, Arshavir Gundjian, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Prime Minister Tigran Sargisian, Hagop Avedikian, Catholicos Aram I, George Mandossian and others. The inter - views were conducted over the last several years, but Vartivarian, who conducted those interviews, has added some more recent information about each subject. To obtain a copy of the book, con - tact [email protected]. 14 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- New Pope, New Hope

enced many instances when people switch opinions upon attaining By Edmond Y. Azadian positions of power. Presidents Obama and George W. Bush, as well Spectator as Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and John Kerry, shamelessly have disavowed their earlier principled positions. We may even ques - With the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, a moment of confusion tion the evasive formulation of People John Paul II during his visit to reigned in the Roman Catholic Church, because the Papacy is a life - Armenia, where instead of calling a spade a spade he reverted to the time position and his resignation only had one precedent — a millen - Armenian term Medz Yeghern , which is not exactly genocide Established 1932 nium ago. (tseghaspanoutiun). He was not a politician and one would question But, soon jubilation returned with the election of a new pope, his ruse to avoid a moral issue frontally. In fact, he caused more dam - An ADL Publication Francis I. age to the issue of Genocide recognition than good. The first casual - When Cardinal Aghajanian was alive, the conclave of Cardinals by- ty, is, of course President Obama’s imitation of the pope, hiding his passed him, because at that time, only Italian members of the clergy previous moral spine behind the word that the pope had used in a EDITOR were eligible to the throne of the Roman Catholic hierarchy. But, diversionary tactic. Alin K. Gregorian since his passing, a pope from Poland was elected, followed by one With all his charisma and his contribution to the collapse of the from Germany and now the latest one is from South America. This Soviet Empire, Pope John Paul II did not avoid the controversy of kiss - ASSISTANT EDITOR week, Pope Francis I will become the 266th pontiff occupying the ing General Galtieri of Argentina, who along with President Jorge Rafael Gabriella Gage Throne of St. Peter. Videla, were the perpetrators of Argentina’s Dirty War, which claimed But why should the new pope’s election interest or excite the mem - ASSOCIATE EDITOR 30,000 lives along with many more maimed in torture chambers. Aram Arkun bers of other churches, including the Armenian Apostolic Church? As we stated earlier, the papacy has also political clout in the real To begin with, excitement and media hype are contagious. Second, world. That is why President Christina Kirchner of Argentina was one ART DIRECTOR the papacy has a political power extending far beyond the 1.2 billion of the first heads of state to rush to the Vatican to plead with the Marc Mgrditchian Catholics worldwide. Although gone are the days when popes and pope to intervene on behalf of her country with Great Britain, over cardinals in Europe had absolute power over individuals through the the issue of Malvinas Islands, known to the British as the Falkland Inquisition courts; the Catholic clergy, very much like the Nazi and Islands off the Argentine coast. SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: the Communist systems, controlled the thinking of individuals mem - Although the new pontiff had been at odds with Mrs. Kirchner and Edmond Azadian bers and the accusation of heresy was a death knell for its victims. with her late husband, President Nestor Kirchner before her, over But still popes have moral power today, which also can translate some social issues, it remains to be seen if the pope will keep his word CONTRIBUTORS: into political power, if necessary. and help Argentina’s cause. Florence Avakian, Elizabeth Aprahamian, Part of the excitement in the Armenian community is derived from Daphne Abeel, Dr. Haroutiune While still in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis I had stated that Britain Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. the fact that the former Cardinal Bergoglio of Buenos Aires has inter - had “usurped” the Malvinas from Argentina. Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der acted with the Armenian community in Argentina and has made pow - It looks like the war of words over these islands is intensifying since Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork erful statements about the Armenian Genocide. To reinforce the rela - the discovery of oil in the coastal regions of these islands. The polit - Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , tions with Armenia and the Armenians, President Serge Sargisian ical sideshow is coinciding with the papal celebration. Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II have flown to the Vatican It is also ironic that Great Britain, which has brazenly denied the Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian to participate in the installation ceremonies of the new pope, along right of self-determination to the people of Karabagh, has also orga - with six sovereign rulers and 31 heads of state and many religious nized a referendum in March on the sparsely-populated islands — CORRESPONDENTS: leaders. mostly transplants from the British Isles — to declare that the people Armenia - Hagop Avedikian This is a very constructive political move building upon the exist - of the Falklands have a right to self-determination and they have over - Boston - Nancy Kalajian Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian ing bond with the new pontiff. whelmingly voted to stay with Britain. Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach It is reported that Pope Francis I, seven years ago, urged Turkey to Pope Francis I has demonstrated over the years that he stands for unconditionally recognize the Armenian Genocide during the com - the poor people. He is characterized by personal humility and doc - Contributing Photographers: Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair memorations marking the 91st anniversary of the Armenian trinal conservatism, although some questions have been raised about Hovsepian Genocide in Buenos Aires. Then-Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio his inaction during the era of Argentina’s brutal dictatorship. urged Turkey to recognize the Genocide as the “gravest crime of It looks like he is the pontiff most familiar with the plight and his - Ottoman Turkey against the Armenian people and the entire human - tory of the Armenian people and we can bank on that in developing ity.” our church’s relations with the Vatican. Armenia very recently The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published It is also reported that he had been instrumental in placing a weekly, except two weeks in July, by: appointed a new ambassador to the Vatican, Mikael Minasyan, the Khatchkar (cross stone) in Buenos Aires’ Metropolitan Cathedral. He president’s son-in-law, with the purpose of further developing rela - Baikar Association, Inc. has welcomed and met Catholicos Karekin II in Argentina and par - tions with the Vatican. 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 ticipated in a number of ecumenical services with the Armenian With the election of the new pope, comes new hope. Pope Francis Telephone: 617-924-4420 Apostolic Church. can certainly make a difference in reiterating his position on the issue FAX: 617-924-2887 Armenians have to be appreciative of the pope’s valiant stand on of genocide and avoid the detours that characterized Pope John www.mir rorspectator.com the issue of the Genocide. But, by the same token, we have experi - Paul’s visit to Armenia. E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com For advertising: [email protected] LETTERS SUBSCRIPTION RATES : Preserving Armenian Language in Armenia

U.S.A. $80 a year To the Editor: Armenian language or our Armenian Christian most have to master the English language. Unfortunately, [Prof. John] Greppin [in a let - faith in God. If we did, we would be speaking When we do business overseas, we may learn Canada $125 a year ter to the Mirror-Spectator appearing in the Turkish, Islam would be our faith and our the language of other countries, but often Other Countries $190 a year February 9 issue] is missing the point. I would nation would not exist. His multiple stays in times it is they who have to learn English to expect the family from Syria would know Armenia never taught him that? compete in the marketplace. Arabic better than Armenian, as I know Greppin also mentions, after his stay of 13 He mentions, “over the years, that western © 2011 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator English better than Armenian. Furthermore, months, his Russian was better than his Armenians are hostile to the eastern Armenian Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA Russian dominated when Armenia was a satel - Armenian. His visiting Armenia, makes no differ - language, as if it weren’t a real form of and additional mailing offices. lite of the USSR. ence as to what he prefers to learn or speak, but Armenian.” I am not hostile to any form of Though it may be true that the Russian those being educated in Armenian schools and Armenian, but Armenians in Armenia should ISSN 0004-234X alphabet may be easier than the Armenian Armenian universities, should be taught in know and speak their own language first in POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The alphabet (Armenian is quite phonetic actually,) Armenian so as to have a better Armenia. order for their country to get ahead. Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, shouldn’t one learn the language and alphabet Bottom line, Armenian is Armenia’s national or I am a proud Armenian and I realize the dif - Watertown, MA 02471-0302 of that country in which you choose to live? historic language, not Russian. If students ference in dialect. I did not expect to under - Other than the editorial, views and opinions This is the fault of the Armenians in Armenia. choose to learn Russian in addition to Armenian, stand every word, but did not expect Russian expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily One of the reasons why there was a in educational circles, this would be fine. to be that widely used in conversation. eflect the policies of the publisher. Genocide is because we would not give up our As for advancing ourselves here in the US, As a child and adult, going to the Armenian Apostolic Church, our old time priests always said their sermon in classical Armenian. I did not understand a word, but I still went to church and was not hostile to our priests. For Your Internal News of Armenia Thank you for the lesson of changes in lan - Copying for other than personal use or guage over the centuries. I do not expect internal reference is prohibited without Armenian to be a world language, only a com - express permission of the copyright Log on to www.AZG.am monly spoken language in Armenia. This argu - owner. Address requests for reprints or back issues to: ment is made for the love my ancestral Baikar Association, Inc. In English, Armenian, Russian and Turkish Armenian language and motherland. 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 — Mel Menasian Methuen, MA S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

ternal warmth. We greatly value the progress registered by times, he may assume positions on political matters that our churches as a result of collaborative efforts undertak - diverge from his personal views and coincide with Vatican’s en during the pontificates of ourselves and our predeces - more worldly interests. As head of the Vatican, the Pope sors. This has been manifested during mutual visits and may be forced to act as any other politician, such as elaborated through a multitude of educational and chari - President Obama, who said one thing before the election My Turn table programs.” and changed his tune afterward. However, as the spiritual On April 22, 2006, during a program commemorating leader of the Catholic Church and a man of strong moral By Harut Sassounian the 91st anniversary of the Armenian Genocide in Buenos values, the Pope cannot simply ignore or contradict his Aires, Cardinal Bergoglio urged Turkey to unconditionally deeply-held convictions. recognize the Armenian Genocide as the “gravest crime of Realizing that all Popes are not alike, it may be useful to Will Pope Francis Repeat Ottoman Turkey against the Armenian people and the review recent papal pronouncements on the Armenian Cardinal Bergoglio’s Words on entire humanity.” Genocide. Pope John Paul II, on two occasions, used the More recently, in 2011, after an Argentinean Federal term Armenian Genocide — on November 9, 2000 and the Genocide? Court found Turkey guilty of committing genocide against September 27, 2001. However, unlike his predecessor, Armenians in response to a lawsuit filed by survivor Krikor Pope Benedict XVI refrained from using that term, prefer - Shortly after Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio became Hairabedian, Cardinal Bergoglio issued a statement con - ring to qualify the Genocide as “martyrdom” and “unspeak - Pope Francis I, Armenian and Turkish media outlets demning “the abominable crime of genocide that the able suffering.” rushed to inform their audiences that the Argentinean Turkish state committed against the Armenian people In the case of Pope Francis I, there is no need for Archbishop had acknowledged the Armenian Genocide on between 1915 and 1923.” Armenians to insist that he use the term Armenian a number of occasions. Both Armenians and Turks are now wondering if in his Genocide; as the Vatican has twice acknowledged the When Catholicos Karekin II visited Buenos Aires on new capacity Pope Francis I will repeat the words he Armenian Genocide. Thus, no purpose is served by April 23, 2004, Cardinal Bergoglio joined him in an ecu - uttered as Cardinal Bergoglio. Armenians are delighted demanding that every new Pope reaffirm the facts of the menical liturgy and spoke during the commemoration of that a close friend of their community in Argentina has Armenian Genocide all over again. It is important, howev - the victims of the Armenian Genocide. The Cardinal stated: been elected to lead the Catholic Church. Meanwhile, the er, that Pope Francis I not retreat from his earlier position “We are united in grief over a genocide — the first of the Turkish press has expressed great concern that “the new on the Armenian Genocide; substitutes and euphemisms 20th century — a genocide that powerful empires seek to Pope could be influenced by [Armenian] lobbying groups.” would not be appropriate. silence and cover up by all means.” Now that he has ascended to the highest office of the Given the Vatican’s positive record on the Armenian Last week, in his congratulatory letter to Pope Francis I, Roman Church, no one really knows what position Pope Genocide, it would be best to go beyond this issue and look Karekin II “fondly remembered” their joint meetings and Francis would take on Armenian issues. One must remem - for other areas in which the Pontiff could be supportive, prayers in Argentina and praised the Catholic Pontiff “as a ber that the Pontiff has two distinct functions as head of such as pressing for the security of Armenians and other courageous, wise and righteous shepherd.” The Catholicos the Catholic Church and the sovereign city-state of Vatican. Christians in Syria. Efforts should also be made to strength - recalled Cardinal Bergoglio’s “sincere affection toward the In other words, he is both a spiritual leader and head of en the existing amicable ties between the Armenian Armenian people,” adding: “We gladly confirm that the his - state. Hence, depending on the issue, he may not neces - Apostolic and Catholic churches, and friendly relations torical relationship between our churches is marked by fra - sarily express the views he held as Cardinal Bergoglio. At between the Vatican State and the Republic of Armenia. In Memory of Yerezgin Varteni Barsamian

want you to do anything to help her, such as very well marrying Der Arsen. They had over 50 She loved decorating her home for Halloween, By Diana Kasarjian Topjian getting in and out of a car with her walker. She years of love and devotion and were blessed Christmas, Easter and other holidays. would always say, “I can do it” and she did. with three children. This past Christmas was particularly difficult Yeretzgin wanted to be as independent and One of her favorite things to do was going because of her weakened condition and being have known Rev. Arsen Barsamian self-sufficient as she could. Never did she want shopping at Lord and Taylor at the Burlington in constant pain, but she was determined to and family for nearly 25 years, and you to do anything to help her, such as getting Mall. She always bought something for Lucy decorate her home but not to her standards of our friendship grew, especially after in and out of a car with her walker. She would and Der Arsen as well. Again, she was always the past. She placed large ornaments on a huge my husband John’s death several always say, “I can do it,” and she did! giving and thinking of others. green plant in the living room, as well as a few years ago. Der Dajad married John When you entered her home, she was always As you know, she always “dressed to the other meaningful decorations. and me, and Der Arsen was our best gracious and hospitable, offering you food or man or gunkehayr. dessert. She was an excellent cook and baker Each of us has special and mean - and would offer you something to eat/ Even if Iingful memories of Yerezgin that you had just had a full meal and couldn’t eat Yeretzgin wanted to be as independent and self-sufficient as she will remain in our hearts always. another morsel, she would still coax you to The following are some of the memories that have something and say, “This is different (darp - will remain in my heart, er eh.) Try it portzeh.” You felt you had to take could. Never did she want you to do anything to help her, such as What is a lady? A lady is defined as a woman it and eat it. Of course, it was always delicious. who is refined, proper, polite and considerate to We know that food is an expression of love, getting in and out of a car with her walker. She would always all regardless of social position or wealth. especially in Armenian homes. Yeretzgin exhibited all these qualities and more. Yeretzgin and I would go to lunch and say, “I can do it,” and she did! Yeretzgin was an outgoing person who loved clothes shopping on occasion. One time we to be with people. You could call her a ‘social went to Gloucester. She loved to be near the nines” and loved fashion. We even went for a She continued to be productive, but in a lim - butterfly.’ She was a lady in every sense of the ocean, which reminded her of Athens. She couple of manis and pedis. Going to Dunkin ited sense, until a few weeks ago. word, but she had her own identity. When she enjoyed dining on seafood and also like going Donuts was something she looked forward to Der Arsen; her children, Lucy, Steven and believed in a cause, she voiced her opinion and to the Aegean restaurant in Watertown, speak - on Tuesday mornings at the Arsenal Mall in Raffi; her daughters-in-law, Lilit and Dorian; her stood her ground. In many ways, she was ahead ing Greek to the staff. It seemed everyone knew Watertown with friends and parishioners. son-in-law, George; her grandchildren, Lucine of her time. her there. In addition to being a good cook and baker, and Drew, along with her extended family were You could also define Yeretzgin as being gen - As a matter of fact, Yeretzgin spoke several she had a green thumb. Everything she planted the most important people in her life. erous. She made one feel as if they were the languages, but she was always eager to learn or repotted flourished. Last November, when I The second important part of her life was her most important person in her presence. In addi - more. She would ask me to correct her English stopped at her home, I noticed a huge gerani - St. James family and friends, whom she loved to tion to being gracious and generous with peo - grammar if she spoke incorrectly. I think that um plant with many orange/red blossoms still see and socialize with. ple, she was generous with gifts. If you did a happened only once because she had mastered in full bloom on the balcony. It was like seeing Being homebound for more than a year, not simple deed or showed a bit of kindness to her, the language quite well. a plant blossoming at the peak of summer. participating in church activities and praying in she could not do enough to show her apprecia - While lunching, we would chat about our Watching plants grow, develop and change church each Sunday was difficult and frustrat - tion. childhood and how are dads were extremely pleased her. Indeed, seeing plants grow, develop ing for her. Yeretzgin always wanted to reciprocate. She strict, particularly when it came to meeting and change is a miracle. During the past years, Fr. Arsen and was a truly giving person through her actions boys and/ or men. Since Yeretzgin was the only Yeretzgin took pride in her home and each Yeretzgin Varteni had rather serious health and deeds. She could never just say “thank girl amongst two brothers, and I was an only item seemed to have a history. She was senti - issues. Lucy was the caring and devoted daugh - you,” she was always giving. child, we shared common frustrations. It made mental and spoke of her dear mother lovingly, ter who took care of her parents’ needs loving - Yeretzgin wanted to be as independent and life on the social circuit difficult and almost often quoting her. ly. Though Steven and Raffi lived miles away, self-sufficient as she could be. Never did she nonexistent. But, as you can see, she made out Holidays were special times for Yeretzgin, too. they visited their parents often. Yeretzgin loved all her children dearly. Truly, they are a devoted family who support one another. When Yeretzgin was hospitalized with pneu - phone number. monia, I was fortunate to have visited her at the Notice to Contributors — Deadline for submission of all articles and advertising is 12 noon on Monday of the week hospital. When I visited her a second time, she of publication. The welcomes articles, commentaries and community news — Photos will be published without charge at the discretion of the editors and art director. managed to look at me and say, “Thank you for Armenian Mirror-Spectator from our readers. In order to assure the accurate and timely publication of articles submit - Photos will be returned only if a self-addressed and stamped envelope is included. being my friend” in her weakened voice. Until ted, please note the following policies: — The will publish only one article about an upcoming organizational event. For the end, she was kind, gracious, giving and M-S — All articles submitted should be typed, double (or triple) spaced and printed in a type size major special events, exceptions may be made only by special arrangement with the appreciative. large enough to be clearly legible (10 point or larger). Submissions that do not conform to these editors. I feel, friendship is truly a blessing, and I was specifications will be assigned lowest priority. — Telephone numbers, ticket prices and other details (at the discretion of the editors) will not blessed to have Yeretzgin in my life. I feel — Articles sent by fax are acceptable, and e-mail submissions are encouraged. be included in press releases, but should be reserved for calendar listings and advertise - friends are the family we choose for ourselves. — All submissions should include the name of a contact person and a daytime tele - ments. Yeretzgin Varteni will remain in my heart always. 16 S ATURDAY , M ARCH 23, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR US Congress Members Reaffirm Bonds with Turkey

ISTANBUL (Today’s Zaman) — Dozens of of the world, Dr. Bülent Kenes, the editor-in- improve trade relations between Turkey and added that Washington is working with those members of the US Congress reaffirmed strong chief of Today’s Zaman, pointed out the impact the US. republics to improve national security, econom - ties and a growing friendship between Turkey of the Gülen Movement. “The role played by the Dent, who visited Gaziantep recently, said ic and democratic reforms. “We attach impor - and the US in an annual convention. Hizmet movement, which takes its inspiration there is only 100 kilometers between Gaziantep tance to events like this. We are hopeful for Organized by the Turkic American Alliance from the ideas of Turkish-Islamic scholar and Syria and that Turkey needs US help deal - democratization in the entire world now that (TAA) and the Turkish Confederation of Fethullah Gülen and has led to Turkey’s active ing with the violence in Syria. the Cold War has ended. This type of event Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON,) presence in more than 150 different countries “We are concerned about Turkey regarding plays an important role in the process, and I which represent six regional federations and around the world — notably in the areas of edu - Syria,” Dent added. thank the TAA for organizing it,” Wicker stated. more than 200 community associations, cultural cation and cultural activities —cannot be US Assistant Secretary of State for South Rep. Bill Foster said Washington’s coopera - centers, business associations and educational denied,” Kenes commented. and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake said the tion with the countries of the region is very institutions in the US, the closing gala of the In their remarks, Topbas invited the partici - TAA is contributing a lot to improving US rela - important for world security and that there are third annual Turkic American Convention boast - pants to visit Istanbul, while Kizilcik expressed tions not just with Turkey, but also other Turkic many issues to work on with respect to ed more than 700 attendees, including 47 mem - his gratitude to the organization. republics. Afghanistan. “We have to keep working togeth - bers of Congress, eight of whom were senators. Congress members stressed the strong ties Sen. Roger Wicker said he was excited to be er,” he added. Many politicians, academics and businessmen between Turkey, the Turkic republics and among the participants, recalling the nation’s Richard Lui from MSNBC was the emcee for from the US, Turkey and the Turkic republics Washington in their speeches and urged the 20-year friendship with the Turkic republics. He the gala. gathered at the closing ceremony. US House of parties to advance relations further. Representatives Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Bob Casey said relations between Turkish Ambassador to the US Namik Tan, the Turkey and the US have never been so strong ambassadors of the Turkic republics, Justice and that he was very pleased when he visited and Development Party (AK Party) Deputy Turkey in 2009. Casey added that he will go St. Vartan Cathedral Celebrates Holy Week Chairman Ekrem Erdem, main opposition back to Turkey this year and visit Istanbul and DIOCESE, from page 1 9:30 a.m. The Divine Liturgy will begin at 10:30 Republican People’s Party (CHP) Deputy Ankara again. the Crucifixion of Christ will begin at noon. a.m. Barsamian will celebrate the liturgy and Chairman Bülent Tezcan, 13 Turkish deputies, US Rep. Jim Moran underlined the necessity This will be a short service enabling working deliver the homily. The St. Vartan Cathedral members of parliament from the Turkic for a free trade agreement between Turkey and people in Manhattan to attend, and it will be fol - Choir will sing the Divine Liturgy under the republics, Trabzon Governor Recep Kizilcik, the US. lowed by a luncheon in the Diocesan Complex’s direction of Mekanejian. Florence Avakian will Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbas and Antalya Responding to questions from reporters, Rep. Yerevan Room. accompany on the organ. Mayor Mustafa Akaydın were among the partic - Sheila Jackson Lee from Texas said there are That same evening, at 7:30 p.m., the Order of Immediately following the service, the ipants. powerful bonds between the Turkish communi - the Entombment of the Lord, or Taghoom Release of Doves ceremony will take place on Tan thanked the TAA for organizing such an ty in Texas and Turkey and congratulated them Service, will take place. the cathedral plaza. This year, Ambassador event and hailed it the event as a “noteworthy for organizing such an event. On Great and Holy Saturday, March 30, the Edward P. Djerejian will serve as the “godfa - success.” Tan said Turkey’s relations with the Noting that the Turkish community in Texas Divine Liturgy will be preceded by a scripture- ther” of the doves ceremony. US are based on three principles: mutual trust, is very active, Lee said it is important to reading ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Easter Eve Some traditional children’s Easter activities unity of vision and close and effective coopera - increase cultural exchanges between the two Liturgy will begin at 6:30 p.m., celebrated by will also take place. tion. Tan said both countries trust each other, countries. Kiledjian. The St. Vartan Cathedral Adult and An Easter Sunday reception and program will adding that the troops of both countries have Rep. Rush Holt of New Jersey said he was Youth Choir, under the direction of Maestro follow the services in the Haik and Alice fought together in countries like South Korea, pleased to see that the TAA is growing bigger Khoren Mekanejian, will sing the liturgy. Kavookjian Auditorium. The reception will Afghanistan and Somalia. every year. Saying that Turkey has an impor - Students of the Diocesan Khrimian Lyceum will include a home-blessing service, and the recog - Tan also noted that Ankara and Washington tant role as a mediator for peace in internation - provide the scripture readings. A reception will nition of the various names associated with the share a common vision to promote peace, al politics, Holt noted that Turkey is a signifi - follow the services. holiday. The reception is free and open to the democracy, freedom and prosperity and that cant partner for the US in solving problems in Holy Week will culminate on Easter Sunday, public. the two NATO members both have well-func - the region. He added that Turkey will have March 31. Easter is the central holy day of the For information on these observances, visit tioning market economies. great contributions to offer Washington for its Christian calendar, and commemorates the dis - www.armenianchurch-ed.net. St. Vartan Tan said the US and Turkey are working policies in Turkey’s region. covery of Christ’s empty tomb and the news of Armenian Cathedral is located at 630 Second together on a range of issues, from the fight Speaking about Syria, Holt said Turkey is tak - his glorious Resurrection. Matins will begin at Avenue (corner of 34th Street.) against terrorism to preventing the spread of ing on an important burden and he said he nuclear weapons. wants to see the violence end in Turkey’s neigh - Tan also added that the administrations of bor to the south. Recalling the dire conse - both countries have developed a sincere, effec - quences of the Iraq war, Holt said the aim was tive and results-focused dialogue on both the to topple a dictator in Iraq, but everyone wit - political and administrative level and added that nessed how difficult it is to do that from afar. US Secretary of State John Kerry’s first visit to Rep. Charlie Dent said he was proud to be at a Muslim-majority country was to Turkey. the event and he was very impressed during his In terms of Turkey’s integration with the rest visit to Turkey. He underlined the need to

Former MS Reporter Daphne Abeel Dies ABEEL, from page 1 Morristown, NJ, in 1951; Milton Academy, Daphne Abeel was born October 23, 1937 in Milton, Mass., in 1955. She entered Radcliffe Morristown, NJ to Elizabeth Stackpole and College in the Class of 1959 and transferred to Neilson Abeel, She was the granddaughter of Barnard College for her BA in 1959. She Neilson and Nina Jackson Abeel of Newark, NJ, earned her MA in Comparative Literature from and J. Lewis and Katherine Whiteside Brown Columbia University in 1964. Stackpole of Boston and Mattapoisett, Mass. All Greatly gifted, she was a skilled and dedicat - were the descendants of early 17th-century ed pianist who played in a chamber music immigrants to the New World. group for many years. An ardent linguist, read - She graduated from The Peck School, er, traveler, horseback rider, cat lover and ten - nis player; in later years she took up watercolor painting. Foreign Ministers of Her two marriages ended in divorce. She had a longtime relationship with William P. Homans Turkey, Georgia and Jr., a prominent criminal defense lawyer in Massachusetts. Azerbaijan to Meet in In addition to her brother, Neilson, and Tori Bryer, she is survived by her youngest brother, Batumi James Stackpole Abeel of Ajijic, Mexico; her BATUMI, Georgia (Armenpress) — The nephew, Neilson Abeel Jr.; her niece, Maud A. foreign ministers of Turkey, Georgia and Abeel, and partner Stuart R. Knoop and their Azerbaijan, Ahmed Davutoglu, Maia two sons, Otis and Jasper, all of Brooklyn, NY. Panjikidze and Elmar Mammadyarov, will Two first cousins, Lewis Stackpole and Cecily meet on March 28. Billings Stack and second cousin Elizabeth Azerbaijan’s Mammadyarov announced Anne Maury. She was predeceased by first this scheduled meeting during a press cousin Alice Stackpole Fry and second cousins conference after meeting with his Brinley Maury and Tedo Francis. Georgian counterpart. She will be remembered and missed by all who knew her. An appreciation of her will appear in an upcoming issue.

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