NOVEMBER 16, 2013 MirTHErARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXIV, NO. 18, Issue 4312 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Armenia Sends House Members Message of Condolence Urge White To Philippines YERVAN (ArmeniaNow) — President of Armenia House to Release Serge Sargisian on Monday offered his condo - lences to President of the Philippines Benigno Armenian Orphan Aquino III over the deadly typhoon that had struck the island country in recent days, accord - Rug for Display ing to the presidential press service. The typhoon Haiyan killed thousands of peo - WASHINGTON — This week, more 30 ple and caused huge devastation to the country, members of the House of Representatives situated on islands in the western Pacific Ocean. signed a letter to President Barack Obama Hundreds of thousands of Filipinos have been urging him to release the Armenian displaced after the high winds and floodwaters Orphan Rug for public display, reported destroyed their homes. the Armenian Assembly of America. The letter initiative was spearheaded by Armenian Genocide resolution sponsors Armenian Quarters of Representatives David Valadao (R-CA) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) and enjoys broad bipar - Aleppo Bombarded Edmond Azadian in the classroom, with young Ardag, on the right tisan support. The letter to Obama states, “This historic ALEPPO (Arminfo) — According to the Facebook rug was hand-woven by orphans of the page of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Tekeyan Shows Appreciation to Armenia’s Armenian Genocide. It was made in an Aleppo, the Armenian quarters of the city have American-sponsored orphanage run by a been bombarded by blasts. Teachers by Distributing Aid US charity created by an act of Congress. As a result, the local population has had diffi - The carpet, which has over 4 million hand- culties obtaining electricity and water. YEREVAN — Nine-year-old Ardag studies at Vahan Tekeyan No. 92 school in tied knots, was presented in 1925 to A six-year-old Armenian child was killed by a Yerevan. He has decided to become a doctor when he grows up. Edmond Azadian, President Calvin Coolidge as a symbol of bomb blast on Monday, while an earlier bomb a member of Tekeyan Cultural Association Board of Directors, during a recent visit gratitude for American aid and generosity. damaged the local Armenian Church Complex. encouraged him by saying, “After a few years I will be back to hear about you, if President Coolidge noted that, ‘The rug you have become a doctor or not.” has a place of honor in the White House Ardag and his 606 schoolmates are studying at the Tekeyan School in Yerevan where it will be a daily symbol of goodwill and have their own dreams about the future. And at school, their teachers are Ankara Asks for Swiss on earth.’” educating them to become first good human beings and then good Armenians, “The decision by the Administration to who would be helping their country. Mediation in Karabagh block display of the Armenian Genocide see TEACHERS, page 9 rug is as inexplicable, as it is hurtful to the Settlement see RUG, page 12 ANKARA (Arminfo) — Turkey has requested sup - port from Switzerland to help overcome conflicts between Armenia and Azerbaijan to open the Tekeyan and Sister Organizations Hold First way for Ankara to repair ties with Yerevan. During a visit to Switzerland in mid-October, Ever International Consultation in London Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told Swiss officials that Turkey is ready to normalize its relations with Armenia, but he made it clear that LONDON — The international consulta - “Yerevan should first leave the Azerbaijani terri - tion of the Tekeyan Cultural Association tories it has occupied,” Turkish sources said. The (TCA) and its sister organizations took foreign minister said “once Switzerland con - place November 8-9 in Kensington, Tara vinces Armenia to leave the occupied territo - Copthorne Hotel London, organized and ries,” Ankara will open its borders with Armenia. hosted by the London Chapter of TCA. The Swiss officials responded positively to Attending were 18 delegates from Davutoglu’s proposal. Davutoglu, during his Canada, the US, Greece, Egypt, France, recent visit to Switzerland, had pointed out that Switzerland, Lebanon and the UK, repre - relations with Armenia are important for Turkey senting three of the four major Trusts of and that Turkey is trying to find new ideas and the TCA, with the fourth Trust being rep - solutions to develop and cover more ground resented informally. when it comes to the ties. He hinted that Turkey Two senior figures of the TCA who were would increase its efforts to form better relations unable to attend due to unforeseen emer - with its neighbor in the coming days. gencies were briefed and their input sought whenever needed. In his opening speech, the chair of the Seated, from left, Varoujan Sirapian, Sarkis Khatchadourian, Haroutiun Arzoumanian, London Chapter, after welcoming the dele - Edmond Y. Azadian, Papken Megerian, Vartan Ouzounian, Taline Avakian, Violetta gates, gave the background of the consul - Barzankian-Kaydan; standing, from left, Garo Boyadjian, Vartan Nazerian, Sossi Yerissian, tation, reviewed briefly the current situa - Krikor Shigaher, Kevork Erzinkazsian (Rapporteur of meeting), Dr. Hratch Kouyoumjian tion of the organization as well as the (chair of meeting), Nar Khatchadourian, Garen Arevian and Arthur Touryan see TCA, page 3 INSI DE Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Armenian Genocide Mer Doon Museum Institute Sign Memorandum of Understanding Event WINNIPEG, Canada — Stuart Murray, exchange knowledge and expertise, edu - destroy. Every society that embraces president and chief executive officer of cational materials, and exhibitions with human rights has to be continually vigi - Page 8 the Canadian Museum for Human Rights respect to human rights, share research lant to promote and protect those human (CMHR), and Dr. Hayk Demoyan, direc - and advice, cooperate to advance the aca - rights,” Murray said. “We are very tor of the Armenian Genocide Museum demic study of human rights and recon - pleased to be joining hands with the Institute (AGMI) of the National ciliation, the Armenian Genocide and its Armenian Genocide Museum Institute to INDEX Academy of Sciences of Armenia, signed effects, and processes seeking justice and promote education, awareness and dia - a memorandum of understanding (MOU) reconciliation, and work together to edu - logue about human rights.” Arts and Living ...... 10 Armenia ...... 2 today that will facilitate collaboration for cate people on issues of human rights, in The official signing of the MOU Community News...... 4 the promotion of human rights through both national and global contexts. between the CMHR and AGMI has been Editorial ...... 14 joint projects and education. “Respect and protection for human facilitated by the assistance of the International ...... 3 The CMHR and the AGMI will rights is hard to build, but easy to see MUSEUM, page 13 2 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Cosmic Ray Division: Catholicos Condemns Shaping Students into Scientists Terrorist Acts Against Christians in Syria YEREVAN — Several bright, young university students, who conducted ECHMIADIN (Public Radio of Armenia) — Karekin their theses work at the Cosmic Ray II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Division of the Yerevan Physics Armenians, criticized the terrorist attack near the Institute (YerPhI), entered a new mile - Holy Translators Armenian National School in stone in their careers. Damascus, which claimed the lives of several chil- Hripsime Mkrtchyan and Hasmik dren. The catholicos described this attack against a Rostomyan finished their master’s school “unacceptable” and emphasized that degrees in physics at Yerevan State Christian communities are often targets in the University and accepted offers to join the Syrian conflict. staff of the Cosmic Ray Division. There, He offered his condolences to the families and they presented the results of their friends of the victims, stressing that the Mother research at the “Thunderstorms and See will maintain its support to the Syrian Elementary Particle Acceleration” (TEPA Armenians. 2013) international conference hosted at On November 17 a requiem service will be offered CRD’s Nor Ambert Research Center on at the Mother Cathedral for the victims and for Mt. Aragats from September 9 to 13. peace in Syria. The Harutyun and Nadya Vaporciyan bonus recipients, front row, from left Tigran Mkrtchyan thesis was titled “The Karapetyan, Hasmig Rostomyan, Narine Khachatryan, Mari Gasparyan, Bagrat Electrical structure of Thunderclouds and Mailyan, Anoush Hakopyan and Artur Reymers; back row, from left, Karen Deputy Speaker Regards Initiation of the Thunderstorm Ground Arakelyan, Ara Babayan, Levon Vanyan, Hayk Avagyan, Pavel Solakhyan, Hripsime Enhancements (TGEs).” Rostomyan’s was Mkrtcyan Turkey’s Statement as “The Maximal Energy of Solar Accelerators: Evidence from Space and ‘Bluff’ Earth’s Surface Measurements.” Both within thunderclouds. “I have their picture on my mirror, and researchers described mechanisms by When Notre Dame physics professor, I look at them every day and I am so YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Armenia does not accept which subatomic particles are accelerated Ani Aprahamian, suggested to Fasano proud,” said Harutyun Vaporciyan of any prerequisites in Armenian-Turkish relations, by natural forces in the environment. The that there may be an internship avail - these talented young people. said Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of CRD frequently presents opportunities able in Armenia, he did a quick Google “All in all, we are pleased with the Armenia Eduard Sharmazanov this week. search and study of Armenia. There was progress of our students and our young Sharmazanov was responding to the statement little time for him to consider this and seasoned scientists who mentor made by Turkey’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmet opportunity, but he decided to go for it. our students,” says Prof. Ashot Davutoglu that the opening of Armenian-Turkish Fasano was mentored by Bagrat Chilingarian, the director of Yerevan border is possible in the coming years if the Mailyan and Artur Reymers, both Physics Institute and the head of its Republic of Armenia takes its troops out of the ter- young physicists who received their Cosmic Ray Division. “I, together with ritory of the Republic of Nagorno-Karabagh. “I PhDs within the past few years. the CRD’s entire staff, express our pro - believe everybody knows that it is not dignified to According to the two, Fasano is a very found thanks to the Vaporciyan family, speak to Armenia with ultimatums. We have stated bright young man with a bright future some of whom have visited CRD’s facil - for many times that no prerequisites are acceptable in science. Besides his work at the CRD, ities in Armenia.” CRD’s staff, as well as for us. So this step by the Minister of Foreign Fasano toured the country and partici - members of the Support Committee for Affairs of Turkey is just a bluff,” he stated. pated in lunch-time debates with the Armenia’s Cosmic Ray Division Sharmazanov called on Turkey to use its influ- other young scientists. He says he looks (SCACRD) congratulate Hripsime and ence on Azerbaijan, so that the latter takes out its forward to going back to Armenia and Hasmig for their recent accomplish - troops from the occupied territories of Nagorno- the CRD as soon as possible. ments, offer them their support, and ,Karabagh Martunashen, Shahumyan, Getashen and Thirteen of the CRD’s young scien - wish them well in the coming years. northern part of Martakert. Patrick Fasano, 2013 Summer Intern at tists and staff received performance- More information on the Cosmic Ray CRD from the University of Notre Dame based bonuses from the Harutyun and Division and the Support Committee Uruguay Minister of at CRD’s Nor Ambert research station Nadya Vaporciyan family for their out - for Armenia’s Cosmic Ray Division is standing work and their resolve to con - available at http://crdlx5.yerphi.am/ Sport and Tourism Visits tinue pursuing excellence in Armenia. and at www.crdfriends.org, respectively. for promising young scientists and engi - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The Minister of Sport neers, including students, to present their and Tourism in Uruguay Lilian Keshishian on research results at international scientific November 12 visited Yerevan State’s sports college forums. of Olympic Reserve, stated that there is no similar Both Mkrtchyan and Rostomyan US Ambassador Urges Improved Business athletic educational institution in her country and were recent recipients of the Kirakos that the experience of Yerevan College is quite Vapurciyan Scholarship for CRD stu - Climate to Entice Foreign Investments interesting for her. dents. This scholarship was established YEREVAN (Armenpress) — There are However, private companies deter - The Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs of by the Vapurciyan family according to significant US investments here, espe - mine on their own where to invest, Armenia Yuri Vardanyan accompanied Keshishian. the will of the late Kirakos Vapurciyan cially in information technology, but in based largely on the local business cli - The sport leaders of Uruguay and Armenia visited of Michigan. In her letter of gratitude to other sectors as well. This was the mate, he admitted. Attracting foreign boxing, weightlifting, wrestling and other gym-halls the Vapurciyans, Mkrtchyan stated “I answer put on his video blog by the US direct investment is a highly competi - in the athletic college, photographed with the ath- would like to express my gratitude to Ambassador to Armenia John Heffern tive proposition. There are many factors letes holding their practices here. you and thank you for such an honor - to an Armenian citizen who recently that companies consider, one key one is She paid a visit to the Museum of the College and able reward. I am deeply appreciative of asked the ambassador on Facebook predictability, he said. “Companies nat - made a note in the book of honorable visitors. your support. This award has encour - why aren’t there any American invest - urally make investments in countries Keshishian thanked the Ministry of Sport and aged me to conduct deeper observa - ments in Armenia. where they are confident of success; Youth Affairs of the Republic of Armenia and the tions in my field. Thank you again!” “These mutually-beneficial economic this is what investors need transparency college staff for the warm reception. Rostomyan expressed similar senti - ties promote Armenia’s long-term devel - in local laws and regulations especially ments in her letter to the Vapurciyans. opment and create jobs and wealth in in customs and taxes, a level playing Yerevan Signs Computer scientist Hayk Avagyan, a both countries,” Heffern noted. Large field with local companies, large and recent graduate of Yerevan State American IT companies such as small to ensure fair treatment and rule Memorandum with EEC University, also accepted a position at Synopsis, Microsoft, VMWare, Mentor of law to ensure that contracts are the CRD. He is helping develop new Graphics and National Instruments respected and any disputes will be YEREVAN (RFE/RL) — Armenia has signed a mem- algorithms for data analysis and the cor - have worked in Armenia for several resolved impartially. So while the orandum of cooperation with the Eurasian relation of data from the Aragats Space years. Other IT companies have recent - embassy is actively promoting US- Economic Commission (EEC), which oversees the Environmental Center with data from ly signed deals to come here as well, Armenian economic ties, the most effec - integration of former Soviet republics around the other astroparticle physics experiments. including Oracle, IBM and Intel. These tive way in increase investment here Russia-led Customs Union. From the University of Notre Dame companies want to build on Armenia’s would be to improve the local business The document was signed on November 6 during in South Bend, Indiana, physics under - tremendous success in the IT sector, climate,” Heffern concluded. talks between Armenian Prime Minister Tigran graduate Patrick Fasano, with the sup - the fastest growing sector here. “You He also stated that the US side is pro - Sargisian and visiting senior officials from the port of the Nanovic Institute for will also find hotel investments and moting these improvements by working Customs Union’s member states — Russia, Belarus, European Studies at Notre Dame, smaller American businesses, such as with the government of Armenia on its and Kazakhstan. interned at the CRD this past summer. cafes and restaurants, but I agree there reform agenda, to increase transparen - The memorandum was approved by presidents of Fasano spent 10 weeks assisting gradu - could be more US investment in cy, improve customs, enhance rule of the three member states at a summit held in Minsk ate students with upgrades and Armenia, especially considering close, law and reduce corruption. last month. improvements to CRD’s data storage people to people ties between our two The high level interagency US- Moscow has said the union will be widened into and processing software, as well as countries. That is why we at the Armenia Task Force meets annually to a Eurasian economic union, modeled after the studying the physics of “Thunderstorm embassy are doing what we can to bring promote these close bilateral economic European Union, by 2015. Ground Enhancements,” a newly-dis - more US companies to Armenia ties. “Let’s do what we can to improve covered, high-energy phenomenon through joint ventures or other mutual - our economic cooperation,” which accelerates cosmic ray particles ly beneficial arrangements,” he added. Ambassador concludes. S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Amid Stormy Relations, Russian Film International News

Festival Takes Place in Georgia Turkey Destroys another Armenian Cemetery er of the festival, in e-mail correspon - challenges, and locals have not been By D. Garrison Golubock dence with The Moscow Times. entirely welcoming in previous years. ISTANBUL (Haberler.com) — According to this Lusignan-Rizhinashvili said the festi - “Part of Georgia’s cultural elite have Turkish news site, as reported by Armenpress, val screens more than 40 new films each effectively boycotted the event since its Turkish treasure hunters don’t let anything stand TBILISI (Moscow Times) — As year, including feature, documentary, launch in 2010,” Lusignan Rizhinashvili in their way when they are looking for possible Russian-Georgian relations remain res - short, experimental and animated films wrote. “There are those on the extreme riches buried, including Armenian churches and olutely frigid despite an impending made predominantly in Russia but also who draw parallels with the infamous cemeteries. change of presidents in Georgia, a small including entrants from other post- screenings of German films in occupied Recently, the target was the Armenian cemetery group of film lovers showed Russian Soviet countries. Paris during World War II, and those near Lake Barazh in the province of Batman. films in the Georgian capital. The fourth In previous years, the festival has who have turned into loyal supporters.” Many cemeteries belonging to the Armenians annual Russian Film Festival took place been warmly received by the Russian Apart from those hostile to Russia, near the lake were razed before. Treasure seekers from November 6 to 10 in Tbilisi, bring - film community and has been attended the festival’s audience is also limited took advantage of the fact that the lowered water ing an array of new Russian produc - by leading Russian filmmakers, produc - by the language barrier — while Georgia table allowed easier access to the cemetery. tions south of the Caucasus. ers, actors and critics. Directors such as was once part of the Soviet Union, “The Russian Film Festival in Tbilisi Pavel Lungin, Sergei Soloviyev, Eldar resurgent nationalism in the past 20 Putin to Visit Armenia remains one of a few — if not the only — Rayzanov and Alexei Balabanov have all years has resulted in a drastic decrease institutional forum aimed at fostering had retrospective screenings in prior in Russian language use. The younger Next Month, Tycoon Says dialogue between Georgian and Russian years, while this year’s program will fea - generation in particular, which did not cultural elites and engaging with ture a retrospective of the works study Russian in school, has been MOSCOW (ArmeniaNow) — Russian President Georgian audiences,” wrote Constantine of Andrei and Avdotya Smirnov. extremely difficult to attract. Vladimir Putin will pay a visit to Yerevan upon the Lusignan-Rizhinashvili, executive produc - Holding the festival is not without This year, the festival changed its invitation of his Armenian counterpart Serge model somewhat by trying to encourage Sargisian early next month, the Chairman of the cooperation between Georgian Union of Armenians of Russia (UAR) Ara and Russian filmmakers. An ”industrial Abrahamyan said. Road from Home in Iran workshop” was conducted for the first RFE/RL’s Armenian Service quoted Abrahamyan time, and the festival also created a plat - this week as saying that the Russian leader will arrive in Armenia on a working visit on December TEHERAN — David Kherdian’s The Road from Home: The Story form for young filmmakers to pitch pro - 1 or 2. of an Armenian Girl has been released in Persian in Iran. posals for funding in 2014, making Abrahamyan also confirmed plans for an The novel focuses on the the festival into an incubator for talent Armenian-Russian business forum to be held in gGenocide of Armenians as well as cultural exchange. Yerevan on December 1-4. The UAR president, who during WWI. Despite the festival’s continued suc - is also a leading businessman, himself will be Kherdian re-creates his cess in the face of considerable obsta - among some 500 businessmen and local leaders mother’s voice in telling the cles and animosity, the festival has expected to arrive in Armenia from Russia ahead of true story of a childhood received very little support from gov - Putin’s visit. interrupted by one of the ernment or private enterprise. No official source either in Moscow or in Yerevan most devastating holocausts According to festival organizers, has reported about Putin’s plans to visit Armenia of the century. Vernon Georgian businesses are reluctant yet. Dumehjian Kherdian was to appear to support a cause in any way Sargisian has invited his Russian counterpart to born into a loving and pros- connected with Russia, and the govern - visit Yerevan several times since the latter returned perous family. Then, in the ment prefers to remain neutral to the Kremlin as president in 2012. Several times year 1915, the Turkish gov- and uninvolved. such visits were announced in the past, but did not ernment began the systemat- While the Russian Culture Ministry take place. ic destruction of its has supported the festival in the past Armenian population. two years, the program is still self-fund - The 240-page Persian ren- ed for the most part, relying on ticket dition of the book has been sales for revenue. WCC Takes Decisive Step translated by Shahla Soheil While many Georgians remain luke - and has been published by warm about Russian culture, festival Toward Recognition of Thaleth Publications. organizers feel the project is important for advancing rapprochement between Armenian Genocide the two nations, and aim to continue BUSAN, Korea — The World Council of Churches expanding in future years. (WCC) has taken a decisive and courageous step this week as it moved to remind the nations of the world of the Armenian Genocide of 1915, and to impress upon them a recognition of the horrendous Tekeyan and Sister Organizations Hold First tragedy that befell the Armenian nation, and of the need for reparations to be made. Ever International Consultation in London In a minute adopted at its 10th Assembly meet- ing here, the WCC announced it would seek to TCA, from page 1 organizations, and in order to be pre - was a formal cocktail reception given by organize an international conference in Geneva on proposed agenda. He dwelt on the pared better to face these challenges, a the London Chapter in honor of the April 24 next year, to urge “recognition of and repa- democratic and liberal credentials of number of resolutions, with set time- participants to which about 50 guests ration for the Armenian genocide, with the partici- TCA as established by the ADL and lines were approved. Amongst these: representing community-based struc - pation, among others, of WCC member churches, regretted the absence of a few chapters 1. To organize formally a global net - tures were invited. After the welcoming international organizations, jurists, historians and from the Middle East who could not work to be established virtually in the words of the Chair of the London chap - human rights defenders.” attend due to various reasons. Tekeyan Centre in Yerevan, but hosted ter, Dr. Hratch Kouyoumjian, the Father Pakrad Bourjekian, who was representing This was the first meeting of its kind and operated from Boston; Primate of the Armenian Church in UK the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem, stated since 1947, with the theme being 2. To establish a four-member Ad Hoc and Ireland Bishop Vahan Hovanessian that it was mainly through the efforts of the “Integration, Complementarity and Committee in order to review the writ - welcomed the participants and wished Armenian delegation, which also included Sustainability.” Over the course of two ten and electronic media and prepare for success for the TCA family in its con - Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Eastern Diocese of days, the delegates reviewed the situa - an action plan within six months. tinuous devotion to Armenian culture America’s Ecumenical Director, and Bishop tion of the various chapters and sister 3. To establish a nine-member Global and values. On behalf of the delegates Hovakim Manoukian, head of the Ecumenical organizations in the Diaspora and Coordinating Committee (GCC) to act Edmond Azadian, member of TCA Department in the Mother See of Echmiadzin, not- Armenia, in order to chart a new way as the “spokesperson of the TCA,” to Central board of US and Canada, spoke, ing their “efforts and the uncompromising support ahead with a new vision and mission act as a think tank and a forum for prob - thanking the host committee and out - and solidarity.” statement. This was primarily an exer - lem-solving and dispute resolution, to lining the organization’s mission. As the The WCC was acceding to requests from leaders cise in foresight, where various matters fine-tune the new mission statement of ambassador of Armenia to the Court of of the Armenian church, in particular His Karekin related to financial, operational and the TCA along the guidelines suggested St. James was out of the country, his II, Catholicos of All the Armenians, lodged prior to structural issues were discussed. at the meeting, to monitor and oversee representative, Ara Margarian, conveyed the 10th Assembly meeting, for the WCC to initiate A thorough analysis of the strengths, the implementation of the resolutions in his turn the embassy staff’s best wish - programs to observe the 100th anniversary of the weaknesses, opportunities and threats locally and globally along set time-lines. es for the future, adding that TCA is a Armenian genocide. were debated and the resultant indica - Members of the GCC will include rep - vital force in the communities wherever The 10th assembly, which wound up its delibera- tors were integrated into a future plan resentatives of the four major Trusts. it exists. tions this week, also wants to organize an ecu- of action. The participants listened and Three slots are currently left open, one On the evening of November 9, a for - menical prayers service commemorating the vic- debated the keynote presentations cov - of which is reserved for the chair of the mal dinner completed the social agenda tims of the Armenian Genocide at the cathedral of ering such themes as the media, future ADL pending a successful resolution of of the meeting. Geneva in conjunction with the international con- trends, management models, innovative all divisive issues in our family of orga - The consultation was closed by its ference and invite members of the WCC to pray for approaches and TCA relationships with nizations. The GCC will submit its chairperson after the customary speech - the memory of Armenian martyrs, and also for the major organizations and institutions. report to the follow-up meeting to be es and good wishes at 5 p.m., on recognition of the Armenian Genocide. In an ever-changing and competitive held during the first half of 2015 at the November 9. world with its clear impact on the dias - Tekeyan Centre in Yerevan. Signed: Consultation Chairperson pora and hence on TCA and its sister On the evening of November 8 there and Rapporteur 4 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

‘Odar’ Connection Veteran’s Bolsters Armenian Day: Community By Tom Vartabedian Khachadourian The next time you go by an Armenian church Pays it Forward or community center take a good look around and you may notice something peculiar. Many of the top executive roles are being By Beth Volpert filled by “odars” who heed the call to duty. Not that this is bad. In some cases, they are more Armenian than their Armenian spouses GRAYSON, Ga. (Gwinnett Citizen) — or the lineage they relinquished. Many enjoy Harry Khachadourian was born in the best of both worlds. Palestine to Armenian parents fleeing A while back, I attended a Badarak in which from Turkey. Khachadourian grew up as the pastor gave an entire sermon about our her - an Armenian Christian in a war-torn itage being diluted by mixed marriages and Palestine. He spent many years moving encouraged his congregation to mobilize their from one “safe” place to another. His people by “sticking to their own kind.” father and uncle owned a shoe factory in Most of those attending church that day took Palestine in the 1940’s and after the King exception to his remarks. There were non- David Hotel was bombed, Khachadourian Armenians in the choir and even had roles on said his life began to resemble the movie the altar. They were the ones who enhanced his “Exodus.” church population, not diminished it. The family lived in Lebanon, Amman A month ago in Merrimack Valley, an and then finally, Jerusalem before moving Patriarch Manougian leads a special prayer service for Catholicos Karekin II. Armenian church honored two individuals who to Upstate New York. “We were so happy were woven into the Armenian mainstream by to be there,” said Khachadourian. “Our spouses born into the Armenian nation. Jeremy sponsors prepared cheese sandwiches on Oldham was ordained a sub-deacon at Sts. American bread and served us cold milk; Vartanantz Church in Chelmsford while Pat it was so strange to us, but we loved every Eastern Diocese bite.” Having come from such a volatile region, Khachadourian, his brother, sister Welcomes Armenian and parents set out to make America their true home. They became accustomed to the new foods, the weather and the cul - Patriarch of Jerusalem ture. In 1963, Khachadourian moved to Chicago and then, in 1965, he joined the US Army. He trained as a helicopter main - NEW YORK — “If I Forget Thee, Jerusalem...” is the Biblical phrase signifying tenance technician and inspector with the the emotional and spiritual power of the sacred site that is home to three of the 175th Helicopter Assault Company. “I world’s major religions. And for Armenians who have played a pivotal role in would repair and then go up with the Jerusalem since the seventh century, the impact of this statement is immeasurable. pilots on the test flights to make sure the On Sunday, November 3, the Armenian community of greater New York had the helicopters were ready,” he said. opportunity to learn more about the centuries-long Armenian presence in Khachadourian said he felt strongly Jerusalem, when Archbishop Nourhan Manougian, the Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, visited the Eastern Diocese. Jeremy Oldham is ordained a sub-deacon in the about “giving back” to the country that Armenian Church. Manougian presided over the Divine Liturgy at New York’s St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral, which was celebrated by the Very Rev. Norayr Kazazyan, principal of the Sts. Tarkmanchatz School at the Armenian Patriarchate. Also taking part in Amboian was honored for her years of dedicat - the service were Archbishop Khajag ed service and commitment. Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the In Amboian’s case, her work throughout the By Florence Avakian Armenian Church of America (Eastern); general Armenian community remains exem - Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian; the Very plary, especially her role with the Genocide Rev. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar; commemoration while husband John continues the Very Rev. Mamigon Kiledjian, dean of St. Vartan Cathedral; the Very Rev. his role as an activist toward many causes. They Daniel Findikyan, director of the Diocese’s Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information make the perfect pair and are rarely seen apart. Center; other area clergy and St. Nersess Seminary students. As for Oldham, he became part of the com - The patriarch delivered a sermon on the temptations Christians face in today’s munity 15 years ago after meeting his secular culture. “As Christ resisted the temptations of injustice and evil, we also Armenian wife, Denise Adamian. A barbequing have to follow His example,” he said. “Those who only seek material pursuits do stint at a church bazaar led to a role at the altar. not find God’s mercy.” In that capacity, he learned to perform different Also during the Divine Liturgy, Manougian led a special prayer service for parts of the Holy Badarak at Sts. Vartanantz Catholicos Karekin II on the occasion of the 14th anniversary of his consecration Church, Chelmsford. and enthronement as the 132nd Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All “Jeremy is truly a unique individual in terms Armenians. of his dedication and determination to learn In the afternoon, community leader Hrant Gulian welcomed guests to a cele - how to read classical Armenian and the various bratory luncheon at the Diocesan Center. Gizirian opened the program with a chants in our service,” said Deacon Ara prayer. Vartan Abdo, director of the Armenian Radio Hour of New Jersey, served Jeknavorian, with whom he serves. “He certain - Harry Khachadourian in 1971 as the master of ceremonies. ly is a source of inspiration for others of his Abdo, who was born in Palestine, pointed out that the Patriarchate gave a home kind. We have a culture that’s meant to be to the survivors of the Armenian Genocide where they received “spiritual, physi - shared and appreciated by all humanity.” offered he and his family refuge from his cal, and mental nourishment.” He went on to say that “our hope today is with the When Oldham was baptized into the war-torn home. “I joined the army, but I youth,” and spoke about the Diocese’s recent pilgrimages to the Holy Land for Armenian Church at St. James shortly after really wanted to go to Vietnam,” said young adults across the parishes. A video of one such youth pilgrimage to proposing to his wife, his father-in-law Harry Khachadourian. “It was important to me.” Jerusalem was shown. Three young pilgrims — Sarine Atamian, Olivia Derderian, Adamian opted to serve as his godfather. Khachadourian finally got his wish with and Eric Silk — described the many sites they had visited in the Holy Land and “For me, it’s been a series of invitations, each a tour of duty in 1971-1972. His company the powerful emotions they had experienced there. one carrying me a little further down the was known as the Outlaws. As the war Ambassador Garen Nazarian, Armenia’s permanent representative to the United Armenian path,” he brought out. “There was no came to an end, the Vietnamese military Nations, emphasized the special meaning that the Armenian Patriarchate of turning back.” began to take over the use of the heli - Jerusalem has for Armenia. “It served as a haven for the Armenian refugees after He’s become a Parish Council secretary and copters, but the nose cover of Outlaw 13 the Genocide and despite the turmoil that continues in the Middle East, it is nec - has attended Armenian school over the years to came home with Khachadourian. “I have essary to visit this holiest of shrines,” he said. He also spoke about the importance learn the language. Their two children, it in a shadow box and take it to our of protecting the Armenian sites in the Holy Land, and added that Armenia Samantha, 10, and Harry, 7, are involved. His reunions,”he said. “One day, I will donate see VISIT, page 6 mother-in-law, Diana Adamian, lives with the see VETERAN, page 7 family. ODAR, page 7 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS Armenian Bar Association Returns to Fresno with a Flourish

FRESNO — On the weekend of October 25- Armenian language, history and culture. Armenian Genocide, built a vibrant community ing and honoring Fresno’s native son, 27, members of the Armenian Bar Association Ghazarian stated, “We are thankful to Prof. Der for all those who came to America in the years Poochigian. from across the country united to recognize Mugrdechian for taking his valuable time to and decades that followed. Ghazarian stated, Former chairman and current Vice-Chairman and honor California Court of Appeal Justice educate us about the rich and vibrant history of “Why are we here? Why did the Armenian Bar Armen K. Hovannisian paid tribute to Charles “Chuck” Poochigian and several mem - Fresno.” decide to come to Fresno? Is it because Fresno Poochigian highlighting his adherence to the bers of Fresno’s judiciary branch for their dedi - Following the Fresno Armenian heritage needs us? No, it’s because we need Fresno.” values that his forefathers brought with them to cation to public service and their Armenian her - tour, Armenian Bar members were invited to Ghazarian urged the young and old lawyers Fresno from Armenia nearly 100 years ago. “As itage. attend a private reception and meeting at the of Fresno to renew their commitments to not an outstanding model of these values, The Association’s pilgrimage to Fresno, one recently-constructed California Court of Appeal, only the legal canons of their profession, but Poochigian,” Hovannisian explained, “has right - of the oldest Armenian-American communities Fifth Appellate District. Located in Fresno’s also to the moral canons of being Armenians. fully earned a reputation of honesty, integrity in the US with its roots dating back to the late “Old Armenian Town” section, the attendees He said that while speaking, reading and writ - and decency, as well as the singular recognition 1800’s, started off with a Friday evening dinner had the unique opportunity to hear Poochigian, ing in Armenian are wonderful traits to possess, of being a man among men, an example among at the century-old Holy Trinity Armenian along with Presiding Justice of the Fifth they are not exclusive, and not being proficient examples and a judge among judges.” Apostolic Church. ArmenBar members sat side Appellate District Brad Hill and the highest sit - in these abilities does not preclude those from Hovannisian commented, “Chuck Poochigian by side with Fresno Armenians, young and old ting Armenian-American jurist in California, being Armenians through and through. To be is the most dominant and complete carrier of alike, and shared ideas and their vision for the Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvin an Armenian, Ghazarian continued, “one needs those genetics,” Hovannisian then asked sever - future of the community in Fresno at the Baxter, greet the Armenian Bar and guide the to feel the need and urgency in his or her soul, al Fresno County Superior Court judges who church’s Annual Bazaar. guests to the court’s library, conference room and be of service to the Armenian community were present to stand and be recognized for On Saturday, October 26, professor of and pointed out the unique architectural fea - and to the Armenian Cause — Hye Tad.” their lifetime achievements and dedication to Armenian Studies at California State University tures of the building which conjure images of Finally, Ghazarian thanked Fresno for giving the administration of justice. Among that group Fresno, Barlow Der Mugrdechian, guided asso - Yosemite National Park in many of its architec - the Armenian Bar its founder, Raffi K. were Superior Court Judges Brian Arax, David ciation members on a four-hour tour of the tural motifs and details. Hovannisian, and concluded by pointing out Kalemkarian, Debra Kazanjian, Edward many historic sites of Fresno County. The tour On Saturday evening, the Association hosted that “we, as Armenians, owe a debt of gratitude Sarkisian, Houry Sanderson, John Vogt and included visits to the statue of David of Sassoun its Judges’ Night dinner gala in the grand hall to the US, our adopted homeland, for all the James Aaron (retired). that adorns the Civic Center. This was followed of Holy Trinity Church. The event drew nearly opportunities that are available to us, to excel Poochigian praised Hovannisian and the by an expedition to the Ararat and Massis 200 guests representing a broad cross-section as human beings and to do so while maintain - Armenian Bar Association for all of its worthy Armenian Cemeteries located on the west side of Fresno’s legal community. Several law firms, ing our identities as Armenian-Americans.” accomplishments over the years in service not of the city. Members paused to reflect on the including Baker Manock, Baradat & Paboojian, The audience was treated to a musical inter - only to the Armenian-American community, but contributions of notable figures, such as world Dowling Aaron, Coleman & Horowitt, Lozano lude by talented Fresno tenor Berj Apkarian also to Armenia. Poochigian was then present - literary giant William Saroyan and Armenian Smith, McCormick Barstow and Tomassian, who lifted the spirits of the audience to even ed with an Armenian peacock painting by hero Soghomon Tehlirian. In the presence and Pimentel & Shapazian served as sponsors for higher plateaus with his virtuoso performance Glendale artist, Seroon Yeretsian, with an shadows of thousands of modern-day the festivities. Joining the law firms as spon - of traditional Armenian songs. Thereafter, in a inscription recognizing Poochigian for the Khachkars, members contemplated the sacri - sors were Fresno Armenian families that are surprise presentation, retired California extraordinary example he has been to his com - fices and successes of their ancestors and paid very active in and have served the community Supreme Court Justice Armand Arabian, pre - munity. homage at the tombs of the very first settlers of for generations, including the Apkarian, sented copies of his autobiographical book, Ghazarian concluded by stating, “The memo - the Armenian community in Fresno. Messerlian, Parnagian and Poochigian families. From Gravel to Gavel , to Baxter and ries made by the Armenian Bar’s pilgrimage to The tour next took the attendees for a visit to Former ArmenBar board member and Los Poochigian. California’s Central Valley and the Armenian- century-old St. Gregory’s Armenian Church in Angeles attorney, Garo K. Hovannisian, served Baxter was then invited to the podium to American community are engrained in the Fowler, where Father Yeghia Hairabedian greet - as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. address the guests and say a few words about minds and hearts of those who were fortunate ed the delegation and traced the history of the Hovannisian welcomed the guests and invited the evening’s honoree Poochigian. A native of to be able to spend the last weekend of October farm community and congregation. From there, Father Vahan Gosdanian to offer the evening’s Fowler, California, Baxter eloquently described 2013 in Fresno. We look forward to and vow to the group moved to Simonian Farms on the invocation. Hovannisian then drawing a parallel that while the first Armenians to the Central soon return home to Fresno in the near future.” edge of Fresno’s wide country roads, where the to a teacher at a boarding school, whose stu - Valley were given refuge from the horrors of the attendees had a chance to pick fruit in a tribute dents refer to him as “Oh captain, my captain” Ottoman Empire, they were not exactly wel - to Armenian farmers and families who brought and hailing him as an inspiring leader who sets comed with open arms. He recounted how the with them the talents they developed in their an array of examples of public service by his ancestors of Fresno’s Armenian community had hometowns of Kharpert, Moush, Bitlis, Van, deeds, welcomed Ghazarian to the podium to to endure the outright discrimination that came AMAA Opens West Erzerum and Dickrangerd to make the Central deliver his remarks. with restrictive land covenants and preclusion Valley of California one of the greatest food-pro - Ghazarian solemnly opened his presentation from many social and fraternal organizations. ducing areas in the entire world. by asking that all those present rise for a Baxter recalled how this differential treatment Coast Office The tour was capped with a visit to California moment of silence to reflect on the memories of resulted in the phenomenon of the Armenians State University Fresno’s Armenian Studies those who are buried in the Armenian ceme - living closely together and forming the social GLENDALE — After several meetings, the Department. There the guests had a chance to teries of Fresno, and honor the sacrifices made organizations and fraternal bonds that would Board of Directors of the Armenian Missionary observe the many programs the university has by those earlier generations of Fresno help the community survive to the present day. Association of America (AMAA) approved a developed in educating students in the Armenians who, out of the ashes of the Baxter praised the Armenian Bar for recogniz - reorganization of the Association and the expansion of its services. Effective November 1, current Executive Director Levon Filian will begin the process of opening a West Coast office of the AMAA and give direction to that office as the West Coast executive director. “For some time, there has been discussion about opening a field office in California to improve the work of our organiza - tion by its proximity to the large Armenian Community in Southern California. We are hopeful that there will be an official opening of the office in January 2014,” said Dr. Joseph Zeronian, president of the AMAA board. The Restructuring Implementation Committee, co-chaired by Louis Kurkjian and Thomas Momjian, is now in the process of searching for an executive director/chief execu - tive officer to lead the AMAA and give leader - ship to the Paramus, NJ office, the West Coast office and the Yerevan office. It is expected that it will take several months to identify and screen candidates and eventually call a person to take on these responsibilities. In the interim, the Board of Directors has acted to call Rev. Mgrdich Melkonian as interim executive director/CEO, as of November 1. In that capacity, he will direct the activities of all AMAA personnel and be responsible to the Board of Directors. Melkonian, who is in the US on his rotation between the US and Armenia, is a member of the Armenian clergy and is famil - iar with the mission work of the AMAA. Founded in 1918, the AMAA is a non-profit charitable organization whose “purpose is to serve the physical and spiritual needs of people everywhere, both at home and overseas.” The AMAA is a “nonsectarian Christian organiza - tion that renders its services to those in need without discriminatio.” For additional information, visit www.amaa.org. 6 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Eastern Diocese Welcomes DETROIT — The St. John Armenian Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem Church Fall Festival took VISIT, from page 4 financial assistance. place on supports the mission of the Armenian “We are asking people of all professions to September 27 Patriarchate of Jerusalem. come and help us with their knowledge, experi - through 29. In the spirit of the day, a group of religious ence, and financial support,” he said. “The selections were sung by Deacons Vahe Patriarchate is a treasure of the Armenian Tekeyan and ADL Bagdasarian and Narek Garabedian, and St. Church, and it is our duty to protect and pre - metro Detroit Vartan Choir soloists Hasmik Meikhanedjian, serve it.” Chapter members Narine Ojakhyan and Anahid Zakaryan. Khoren Visit to Boston worked hard to Mekanejian, the Diocese’s coordinator of Music On Friday, November 3, close to 300 people support this Ministry, accompanied on the piano. gathered at St. James Church in Watertown, event, which Barsamian noted that with the election of the Mass., to welcome Manougian to Boston. annually draws The evening began more than 5,000 with a hrashapar service people. John of welcome in the church Yavruian a mem - sanctuary, followed by a ber of St. John’s, reception in the church hall. Barsamian, as well organized all the as New England area volunteers need - clergy and deacons, took ed. Above and at part in the ser - right, Metro vice. Representatives Detroit from the Massachusetts Tekeyan/ADL vol - Council of Churches unteers cook for were also present, includ - the event, with ing Executive Director Captain Jack Rev. Laura Everett. Alexanian. Berj Chekijian served as master of ceremonies. Chekijian once had Manougian and Patriarch Manougian speaks at the Diocesan Center about the impor - Barsamian as students at tance of preserving Armenian Jerusalem. the Armenian Seminary Donation in Jerusalem. Aaron Derderian, a In memory of her husband Asbed Zakarian, Margaret Zakarian donated $2,500 to the 97th Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem last member of the St. James ACYOA, and Danielle Armenian Mirror-Spectator on October 25. January “a new chapter began in the Jerusalem Malconian, a member of the ACYOA of Holy Patriarchate, which will direct the journey of Trinity Church of Cambridge offered reflections our church and nation.” on the 2013 Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage to the “It is crucial that we maintain our ancient Holy Land. A video highlighting the pilgrimage Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a and holy places in Armenia and the Holy Land,” program was also shown. Malconian presented he said. “The tie must be preserved between a check to the patriarch in the amount of $500, Armenia, Jerusalem and the diaspora.” which was raised by the Holy Trinity ACYOA Manougian began his address by paying trib - Seniors. Edward D. Jamie, Jr. ute to those who built New York’s St. Vartan Manougian expressed his gratitude to the Cathedral. “This kind of unwavering commit - Boston community for their warm welcome. He ServiFnguthne eentrireaAlrmCenhianaCpomemlunity ment is needed in Jerusalem,” he said, and went spoke about Jerusalem’s historic role in the Any Hour • Any Distance • Any Location on to discuss challenges facing the Armenians Armenian Church, and the need for ongoing in Jerusalem, including the need of clergy and support of the Patriarchate’s ministries. Call (718) 224-2390 Toll Free (888) 224-6088 Bus. Reg. 189-06 Liberty Ave., Hollis, NY 11412 Consultation Office: 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside,NY 11361

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BELMONT, Mass. — Barbara (Johnson) of the late Aghavnie Canarian. Young died on November 6. She was born on Services were at St. James Armenian Church, May 7, 1936, in Medford. 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown on Tuesday, ENNIS M. EVENEY & ONS She was the wife of the late Manoog November 12. Interment followed in Highland D D S Solomon Young. Meadow Cemetery, Belmont. She leaves her children, Armen Young and Expressions of sympathy may be made in her Cemetery Monuments his wife Kelley of Littleton, and Adrina Gobbi memory to St. James Armenian Church, Specializing in and her husband Richard of N. Billerica; grand - National Association for Armenian Studies and children Jake and Mariah Gobbi and Research (NAASR), 395 Concord Ave., Belmont, Armenian Designs and Lettering Christopher and Lauren Young and brother MA 02478 or ALS Mass. Chapter, 315 Norwood 701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543 Aram Johnson of Lexington. Park South, 1st Floor, Norwood, MA 02062. She was the daughter of the late Henry and She was a longtime member of St. James (781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com Stella (Canarian) Johnson and granddaughter Choir and Women’s Guild. S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS ‘Odar’ Connection Bolsters Armenian Community

ODAR, from page 4 Hearing Karen Guzelian sing the Badarak on “Learning the dialect and chants was daunting Sunday mornings at St. Gregory Church in North at first,” he admits. “I had a hard time pronounc - Andover, one would never know she was of Greek ing the words and making the correct sounds. ancestry (Plakas) without an ounce of Armenian Many people helped me with the pronunciations. blood. She married an Armenian husband named It has remained a work in progress.” Charles. You see her regularly. He seldom His ordination was truly a memorable day, appears. being in front of a packed congregation and given The two children became woven into the her - the rites by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, pri - itage, thanks to her. Michael was ordained as an mate. His pastor, Rev. Khachatur Kesablyan, was acolyte. Both he and sister Krista were part of the bursting with pride. In attendance was Oldham’s Armenian/Sunday School. Krista also sang in the family from North Carolina. “I’m hoping my next step will be a full deacon,” he confirms. Amboian is Irish through and through. She’s described as a “Jill-of-all-trades” inside the Armenian Church, even serving as Parish Council chairwoman; she sings in the choir, has taught Sunday School and remains active on commit - tees. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to embrace such a beautiful heritage,” she has often repeated to others. “I may be considered an ‘odar’ but I feel very Armenian.” The first time Father Lenny Faris walked into Holy Cross Armenian Church in Lawrence, he was a young man working at his dad’s grocery store where the late Rev. Vartan Avakian was a familiar customer. One day, he decided to investigate after hearing the sounds of a beautiful choir from an open win - dow and began attending Sunday Badarak. His Rev. Fr. Leonard Faris got his upbringing inside an Lebanese background was no deterrent. Armenian Church before turning to the priesthood. The director (Mary Bogosian) invited him to “ join and he remained a part of the chorale for the next 10 years, learning how to read and write choir before college. Armenian, pray as well. Karen served four years as a trustee member Through those fateful moments in his life, it led and taught Sunday school for many years. to a career with the church. He is now Rt. Rev. “My husband’s glad to see his children Archmandrite Leonard Faris, pastor of St. George involved with the heritage,” she brought out. Antiochian Orthodox Church in Lowell — a parish “The kids needed another influence in their lives with 150 families comprised mostly of Middle and they found it inside an Armenian Church.” Eastern faction. At one point, every major executive post inside “Though we have no Armenian blood in our St. Gregory Church was assumed by an “odar.” family, we have many Armenian friends,” he point - Trustees. Men’s Club. Ladies Guild. Bingo chair - ed out. “I still remember my prayers in Armenian man when it existed. and can celebrate the Soorp Badarak with one of Today there’s a scholarship in memory of two the Armenian priests.” individuals — David Brundage and Hector Bizios His closest friend was the late Rev. Vartan — both of whom wed Armenians. Hector Bizios Kessabian. The two often visited one another and was indispensible with the Bingo mission, helping sermonized in each other’s churches. to raise thousands of dollars to nurture the “I have been inspired by His Eminence upkeep. Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan and His Grace As for Brundage, nobody sold more Prelacy raf - Anoushavan Tanielian,” he noted. “We’re all spiri - fle tickets. tual brothers in Christ, committed to perpetuating “The fact I’m not Armenian has nothing to do our faith and heritage. I often think back to those with my Christian spirit and love of God,” he once earlier days and how they influenced my life.” proclaimed.

Veteran’s Day: Khachadourian Pays it Forward VETERAN, from page 4 the military includes taking the time to visit vet - it to a museum, but for now, the men like to see erans and learn from their experiences. “It it and talk about our time in Vietnam.” would mean the world to these guys if some of Khachadourian credits his wife, Terry the JROTC students would come listen to their Khachadourian, with helping to find peace with stories,” said Harry Khachadourian. “Both the PTSD that he and so many of his fellow ser - would benefit because these veterans have so vicemen suffer from. “Terry is a nurse and she much to offer future soldiers.” could see the suffering in me,” said Harry PFC Austin Smith of the Grayson High Khachadourian. “I sought help from the VA and School JROTC agreed with Khachadourian. “In now I am helping others.” Helping others is my opinion, spending time with veterans pre - therapeutic for a man who said that there are pares us with a background you can’t get from things that veterans can never forget. “Talking a book,” said Smith. “I find their stories very to someone about it really helps,” he explained. interesting and am looking forward to the next Terry Khachadourian said she sees her hus - time we visit the wounded veterans.” Smith and band as an everyday hero who gives selflessly. his fellow JROTC students have plans to serve “I wanted people to see what he does for his fel - veterans by visiting them and showing their low veterans,” she said. “Honoring his commit - respects for the sacrifices they have made for ment is important to me.” their country. Harry Khachadourian regularly spends time For Khachadourian, continuing to serve the with veterans at retirement facilities and volun - country he loves is his way of showing gratitude teers at Evercare, a hospice program. He said he for finding a safe place to grow up. “This coun - knows firsthand how helpful it is to have some - try means everything to me,” he said. “Working one listen to his own stories and this is just one with veterans is as important to me as it is to more way that he can give back to the country them.” Making a difference, veteran to veteran, he loves. Family friend, Cyndi Troutman, said, is the way Harry Khachadourian said he finds “The fact that Harry is active with the veterans peace with the memories of being a child of war in hospice care speaks volumes about his com - and of being a soldier. Gathering with his fellow mitment to his country. He takes it very seri - veterans is a continual gift that he both gives ously.” and receives. Cherishing the US as his home is His advice to students who are considering the force that drives his service. 8 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS November Dance to Help Mer Doon Continue Its Mission to Change Girls’ Lives in Armenia

By Noushig Hovhannesian

WATERTOWN and PHILADELPHIA — Tigranouhi Karapetyan, co-founder and president of Our Home – Mer Doon in Echmiadzin, Armenia recently sat down for an inter - view, to speak about Mer Doon’s unparalleled mission. This writer had written about Mer Doon a few years ago upon return from a two-month service trip to Armenia. A visitor had the chance to witness, firsthand, the mission of Mer Doon and the incredible value it creates in the lives of those who are accepted into the organization. It was easy to see Mer Doon’s dedication, commitment, compassion, and the change these principles have the power to create, in light of so much hardship in the country. Mer Doon is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that houses and provides a supportive family environment for orphaned Armenian young women who have aged out of state- funded orphanages. It is currently providing housing for 10 young women, each furthering their education and pursuing a useful skill or vocation. The young women also receive a reli - gious education, learn French, Russian and English in-house, and are trained by the staff in personal and social skills. It is regrettable to report that most emancipated orphans end up living on the streets, minimally educated and unskilled, and often fall prey to lowly opportunists who take ownership over them and exploit them in the worst ways imaginable. Mer Doon was founded on the premise of providing a lov - ing home environment to young women where they are sup - ported in a manner in which not only are their basic needs met, but the proper development of their character is held The mayor of Echmiadzin, Karen Grigoryan, is flanked by some of the young women of Mer Doon and their friends. supreme and their education is made a priority. Founded in 2005, Co-Founders Karapetyan and US Board Member Julie Ashekian have seen the fulfillment of Mer Doon on many occasions. The mayor of Echmiadzin, Karen ed, weddings are funded by donors and supporters. The wed - Doon’s mission many times over with each young woman Grigoryan, makes frequent, informal visits to Mer Doon and is ding day is designed to be a very special occasion for the bride, who has become self-sufficient, earned a college degree and very supportive of the organization. He has attended several often specifically themed and aligned with her interests, such married and created a family of her own. Karapetyan, who of the weddings, traveling for hours to be in attendance for the as Mariam Pipoyan’s wedding this summer who had a soccer- lives in Echmiadzin with her husband and two children, is daylong affairs. On a recent occasion, when during the cere - themed celebration. Merchants in the community donate their treated as a surrogate mother to each of the young women, mony the minster asked that the father of the bride stand, services — from beauty services, gifts, pastries and celebrities’ even by the Echmiadzin community at large. As she speaks Grigoryan graciously took on the role. musical talents and appearances. of Mer Doon, in her gentle tone one can sense her deep love Being an orphan in Armenia carries an unfortunate stigma In Yerevan Magazine ’s May/June 2013 issue, Mer Doon for the young women of Mer Doon and her commitment to and the opportunity for a fulfilling marriage for young orphan was highlighted as “A True Inspiration.” The writer noted, the fulfillment of Mer Doon’s mission. Askehian lives in women is scarce. Mer Doon’s deep commitment to the proper “Those who had the pleasure of visiting, it is an experience Kensington, Conn., with her husband, Clement Ashekian, fostering of the young women has reversed, wholly and entire - they never forget and the girls leave an indelible mark in who is a fellow board member. She is an adored grandmoth - ly, the opportunities that are available to them, both in their their minds.” er to the young women and is particularly committed to the independence and in marriage. Karapetyan, as the mother fig - On Saturday, November 16, Mer Doon will host a second women’s education. Every young woman who is admitted ure in the lives of the young women, is asked to accept the plea annual dance at St. James’ Charles Mosesian Cultural and into the organization must be serious about her education. for a hand in marriage. When a young man expresses interest Youth Center in Watertown, MA and will be featuring music Mer Doon’s reputation has moved many accomplished in one of Mer Doon’s young women, not only must he be by John Berberian, Bob Mougamian, Mal Barsamian and Armenians to take part in its mission including singers Nune accepted by Karapetyan, but his family also is introduced to Bruce Gigarjian. All are invited to attend, but seating is lim - Yesayan and Sirusho, producer Alexander (Sasha) her before the young woman is permitted to date. Mer Doon ited, so please make reservation quickly. Mirzakhanyan, Armenian Social Minister Lala Ghazaryan, and weddings are a town-wide celebration in Echmiadzin, antici - More information for reservations can be found at First Lady of Armenia Rita Sargisian, who has visited Mer pated by the community. Because Mer Doon’s funds are limit - http://www.mer-doon.com. A Child’s Vigilant Fight against Cancer

“I call her my warrior,” said her mom. “She talks cer eight years ago,” said Deanna Ayanyan. “The By Tom Vartabedian so freely about her ordeal. Ani even Googled some side effects from treatment are so vivid in my mind. information and found out that eating cherries I’m just sickened at the thought that my innocent causes cancer cells to commit suicide. So we’re on 9-year-old girl who is so full of energy is going to CRANSTON, R.I. — On the surface, Ani Ayanyan the hunt to find cherries in November.” face such a trauma in her life. Both my children is like most 9-year-old girls. Beautiful. Kind. It all happened so quickly. Two weeks into the have been very positive through this.” Intelligent. school year, she woke up vomiting with a terrible The day she was discharged, Ani Ayanyan had She follows the Boston sports teams and does headache. After waking from a nap, her left eye one remark for her surgeon and it had nothing to very well in her Grade 4 classes at the Oaklawn became visibly larger than the right. A call was do with the procedure she had just faced. Instead, School. It is okay if she prefers gym over other class - played immediately to her pediatrician. it was about Elvis Presley. es. Art and writing are in close pursuit, though. “At first, I thought maybe it was a thyroid con - “Do you like Elvis?” she asked the doctor. Kids around the playground call her “Sporty dition, something like Graves disease,” her mom “Yes,” he replied. Spice” because she is so athletic. It is easy to see said. “Ani had passed all her neurological tests. In her best Elvis voice, she sang out a “thank why. She plays ice hockey, soccer, baseball, basket - Maybe she was getting migraines since they’re you” to the man who had just saved her life. A high- ball, tennis and swims. She also bowls better than hereditary in our family.” five salute followed. most her age and looks forward to her role with An MRI revealed a “monster” tumor causing a “It was just one of those Ani moments that puts Armenian Scouts at Sts. Vartanantz Church. partial blockage around both optic nerves, invading a smile on my face and gives me the courage and “I’m always joking with her that with a closet full the nasal cavity and eye socket. Thankfully, the dis - strength to continue with my positive outlook for a of clothes, she somehow always ends up wearing ease is 100 percent treatable. great prognosis,” said Deanna Ayanyan. “It is very her sporty team jerseys,” said her mom, Deanna. The surgery took place in mid-October. therapeutic for me to share this with others.” Ani Ayanyan refuses to give in or let obstacles This year, she was set to play flag football when Treatments will begin over the next week with Ani wanted her dad to count the stitches in her stand in her way. fate intervened. The youngster was diagnosed with chemotherapy and proton radiation five times a head — there were 75. Her biggest concern when cancer and is waging the biggest fight of her life. week for six weeks at Massachusetts General told about the effects of chemotherapy was the type “We will fight this with everything we have and Hospital. of wig she would be wearing. With typical moxie, “Mom. I’m no superhero. I can’t fly!” continue keeping the faith every step of the way. A month’s hiatus will follow, then more chemo she chose one of singer Rihanna’s hairstyles. A benefit called Ani’s Angels is planned for later Ani is a fighter,” her mother said. will be administered as needed. The family is pre - Her mother said, “I told her I have a new super - this month at PJ’s Pub in Johnston. Those wishing Just recently, the child went through a 12- pared to face the ordeal with a great deal of faith hero and her name is ‘Ani Ayanyan’ and she’s a war - to help with her medical expenses can send a check hour surgery to remove a grapefruit-sized and fortitude. rior.” payable to Deanna Ayanyan, 18 Briar Hill Drive, tumor near her brain. “I lost my mom to a rare form of stomach can - The young fighter just giggled and replied, Cranston, RI 02912. S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS St. Stephen’s Elementary School Celebrates Armenian Cultural Day

WATERTOWN — For the 14th consecutive including Gakavig, Antsrevn Yegav, Keleh Keleh year, St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary and Yeranki. The performance was followed by School (SSAES) held Armenian Cultural Day a presentation by the Grade-5 students — in celebrations on its campus at the Armenian both Armenian and English — about the Cultural and Educational Center in the fall. Armenian language, religion and history. The event this year, which took place on Next in the program was a talent show fea - October 24, gathered students, teachers, admin - turing the musical gifts of several SSAES stu - istrators and student-families to commemorate dents from the third through fifth grades. the rich cultural heritage shared by Armenians “It was heartwarming to see the children radi - around the world. ate such pride in their Armenian culture and The day began with a presentation on heritage,” noted Tanya Haserjian, an SSAES Komitas by two guest musicians, Ara Sarkissian parent who has two children at the school. and Martin Haroutunian. The two played a Following the student performances, Diana medley of traditional Armenian melodies, Adamyan, a 13-year-old violinist from Armenia,

Students in Grade 2 pose in front of their family trees.

took to the stage and charmed the audience riculum, academic strength, devoted staff and with a phenomenal performance which includ - low student-to-teacher ratio. SSAES is the ed Keler Tsoler and Groong from Komitas as only Armenian day school to be fully accred - well as several other pieces. The event conclud - ited by the Association of Independent ed with a display of SSAES students’ culturally- Schools in New England (AISNE), the accred - based projects, which ranged from dioramas iting body for independent elementary and paintings depicting traditional Armenian schools. AISNE has commended the school scenes to family trees. for “creating an environment where all the Said teacher Morgan Grunwald, “As a new students love to read and appear committed teacher at the school, I am not only enjoying to academic excellence” and for recruiting a learning more about Armenian culture but am talented and dedicated staff. The AISNE Students in Grade 3 present dioramas of Armenian tradition. encouraged to see that my third-grade students accreditation puts St. Stephen’s Armenian are proud and eager to share their heritage with Elementary School academically on par with me.” other prestigious private schools in the SSAES was founded in 1984. The school region. To learn more about SSAES, visit has distinguished itself with its bilingual cur - www.ssaes.org.

Tekeyan Shows Appreciation to Armenia Teachers by Distributing Aid

TEACHERS, from page 1 The Sponsor A Teacher project, which is implemented by the TCA, serves to help the teachers. It was established in 2000 and since then, every year, all the schools in Armenia and Artsakh named after the prince of Armenian poets, Vahan Tekeyan, the namesake of the organization, receive financial help. On September 20, the members of Yerevan TCA visited the No. 92 school to hand the checks to each teacher and staff member. Each teacher received $130 and staff members $30.

Students attended the Armenian Cultural Day celebration.

AIWA Chicago Holds Its Inaugural Cocktail Party Featuring Carrie Nahabedian

CHICAGO — The newly established Chicago Gregory the Illuminator Church in Chicago, Affiliate of the Armenian International blessed the food and the initiative. Women’s Association (AIWA) held its inaugural The evening continued with the presentation cocktail party on a pleasant Monday evening on of the charter and the introduction of the board October 28th. Over fifty members and guests members by the President of AIWA Chicago met at the acclaimed NAHA Restaurant, located Veronika Moroian. The current board includes: From left, Gayane Muratyan, Tekeyan School No. 92 Principal Tsovinar Mardanyan, at 500 N. Clark St. Moroian, president; Tamar Wasoian, vice presi - Edmond Azadian and Hagop Minassian The keynote speaker was the award-winning dent; Greta Doumanian-Harley, secretary; Houri chef, Carrie Nahabedian, who shared her suc - Gueyikian, treasurer; Ruzanna Tantushyan, cor - cess story, emphasizing the importance of love responding secretary and Sonya Doumanian Each year this amount is handled to teachers in the presence of members of committee in everything one undertakes. adviser/liaison. and members of Tekeyan from US and Canada. This year Azadian and Hagop Minassian Over artfully created hors d’oeuvres and In addition to raising awareness about the orga - from Detroit visited the schools and the classes named by Ared Khntirian and the late edi - wine, AIWA members and event attendees net - nization, the program helped those attending tor Hagop Boghossian as well as the library which was renovated by the Tekeyan Cultural worked, inspired and met new friends. remember their Armenian roots and express their Association. Sonya Doumanian, AIWA Life Member, is one dedication to help women across the globe. The last time that Minassian had visited the school was in 2001. He says that through the of the founders of AIWA Chicago Affiliate. She Among the friends of the organization who years the school has changed a lot, but unfortunately the students’ number has decreased. was instrumental in bringing the six-member were present on October 28 were Ann M. Therefore, he said, this donation for teachers is encouraging, especially for the heroic job that interim committee together, which was subse - Lousin, professor of law at the John Marshall they are doing, although they believe also that the fund raising process is not easy. Azadian quently approved by the Boston headquarters to Law School and one of the first members of said, “If we say to people that we are building a church, they immediately donate money. If become the AIWA Chicago Board. Doumanian AIWA; Leona Mirza, professor of mathematics we say we are building a second church, they do give a second time without even asking if told the story behind the formation of the chap - education at North Park University, who we are in need of that church. But when we ask for the sake of helping a teacher who is not ter and the enthusiasm the interim committee became an AIWA Life Member at the Chicago’s well paid, unfortunately the fund raising will not be smooth, but rather difficult.” had in establishing AIWA in Chicago. inaugural event at NAHA and Missak Galian, — Inga Bedrosian The Very Rev. Aren Jebejian, the pastor of St. editor of Parev Monthly . 10 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Gamavor Production David of Sassoun Volume Keeps Papazian- To Launch at Fresno State FRESNO — Dr. Vida Samiian, dean of the Sahagian Fortified College of Arts & Humanities, will give the opening remarks at a formal book-launching of the new volume, David of Sassoun: Critical By Tom Vartabedian Essays on the Armenian Epic , at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 21 in the Industrial Technology Building Auditorium, Room 101, WATERTOWN — After two hit theatrical pro - on the Fresno State campus. ductions, what does one do for an encore? David of Sassoun is the fourth volume in the If you’re Hourig Papazian-Sahagian, you Armenian Series of the press at California State keep the wheels turning. University, Fresno, established by the Armenian The 87-year-old executive producer/director Studies Program and funded by the M. Victoria is relentless in her pursuit to tell the Armenian Karagozian Kazan and Henry S. Khanzadian story through stage work, music and a bit of Kazan Endowment. The publication of this vol - sass. ume was also made possible through a grant It’s not always easy working with a group of from the Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund. amateurs, but she’s managed to turn the dia - Armenian Studies Program Coordinator mond in her rough into a sparkling jewel with Barlow Der Mugrdechian, co-editor of David of an ensemble that calls itself The Way We Were. Sassoun with Dr. Dickran Kouymjian, will dis - Her latest performance of “The Hye Legion — cuss the history behind the epic and why the dis - the Gamavor Story,” on November 10 at St. covery of a new variant in California became so Stephen’s Church was played to a standing ova - important. Der Mugrdechian will outline how the tion. book was conceived and the significance of the The event was sponsored by the Ladies Guild, articles by the contributing scholars. which left no stone unturned with a reception Dr. Sergio La Porta, Haig and Isabel that followed. More than 100 attended the 75- Berberian Professor of Armenian Studies at minute musical and there wasn’t a passive Fresno State, will give concluding remarks for moment in the crowd. the evening. When asked how many had Gamavors From left, Father Garabed Kochakian, Rev. Dr. Vahan Tootikian David of Sassoun is a collection of essays by (Legionnaires) inside their family, half the audi - the world’s foremost scholars on the great oral ence stood to its feet wearing star medallions epic of Armenia, including Charles Dowsett, made especially for the occasion. Kouymjian, Aram Ter-Ghevondian, Earl R. “The bus trip from New Jersey was just as Anderson, Chaké Der Melkonian-Minassian, spirited as the production,” she reported. “We Monsignor Andon Frédéric Feydit, Arpiné Khatchadourian, Aram have three generations tightly woven together Tolegian, Chaké Der Melkonian-Minassian, and they collaborate very well.” Vahé Oshagan and includes an original poem The Watertown appearance of Gamavor Atamian’s Book Feted on David by Ashough Hovnani. marked the fifth for this 35-member ensemble The epic poem survived until the 1970s oral - (TOM VARTABEDIAN PHOTOS) ly, passed on, generation after generation, for In Detroit more than a thousand years by anonymous vil - lage bards. Today it is recognized as the Armenian epic with the Armenian culture DETROIT — On Wednesday, encompassed in its pages. October 23, the AGBU Alex and Marie The lecture is free and open to the public. Manoogian School, the Cultural Copies of the book will be on sale. Society of Armenians from Istanbul For more information on the lecture contact (CSAI) and the Tekeyan Cultural the Armenian Studies Program. Association of Detroit jointly orga - nized a book launch ceremony honor - ing Monsignor Andon Atamian, pastor of St. Vartan Armenian Catholic Church, on the occasion of the publi - Hamazkayin Eastern US cation of his book, Gaydz yev Seeks Submissions for Ambrob . A capacity audience attended, Annual Tölölyan Prize in among them guests from Montreal and Toronto. Literature Dr. Nadya Sarafian served as the Edmond Azadian at the lectern. emcee. Anahid Toumajan read WATERTOWN — The Hamazkayin Armenian excerpts from the book, while Educational and Cultural Society of Eastern US Edmond Y. Azadian made an in-depth presentation of the book, both in Armenian seeks submissions for the second annual Minas and in English. and Kohar Tölölyan Prize in Contemporary Executive Producer/Director Hourig Papazian- In his comments, Azadian said that Atamian’s book, at 254 pages, is titled Literature. Sahagian is all smiles after her production of Lightening and Thunder . Although it is a threatening title, he said, the content is Named after one of the major Armenian lit - “The Gamavor Story” at St. Stephen’s Church most soothing and comforting because its lightening serves only to illuminate the erary critics of the second half of the 20th cen - Nov. 10. human soul and the thunder dispatches his prayers to the Almighty. It is a book tury and his wife, a teacher of literature for see DETROIT, page 11 decades, the prize will recognize work by writ - ers in North America. Poetry, short stories, nov - with previous New England stops at North els and drama are all welcome, as are works of Andover and Providence, RI. creative non-fiction. There will also be a finan - Prior to this, the group enjoyed rave reviews cial award of $1,500 each for the Armenian and with “Hello Ellis Island,” a story also set to English language awards. music on the immigration process following the The jury will consist of Dr. Sima Aprahamian Genocide. This, too, hit home with its libretto. (Montreal), Dr. Vartan Matiossian (New If anything, Papazian-Sahagian is mulling a York/New Jersey), Gourgen Arzoumanian third script — this one having to do with the (California), Yervant Kotchounian (California) melting pot and assimilation. Although still in and Prof. Khachig Tölölyan (Connecticut). its inception phase, the playwright feels folks The prizes will be announced at will respond to it, particularly inside the Hamazkayin’s Annual Pan Gathering in May American mainstream. 2014. “Who hasn’t gone through it?” she reflects. All submissions must be sent electronically to “We’ve all tried to keep our kids ethnically [email protected] as a PDF sound and adherent to their roots. It could be file (highly encouraged) or in hard copy format the perfect scenario for another show. I’m giv - to Hamazkayin Tololyan Prize Committee at 80 ing that some thought.” Bigelow Ave, Watertown, MA 02472, by January 31, 2014. All submissions must be accompanied So excited was the octogenarian after the Guests and speakers, including Monsignor Atamian, fourth from right. show, she barely had a moment to enjoy her by the Tololyan Prize Application found online choreg and coffee. People approached her to at http://bit.ly/167vSsM. see PLAY, page 12 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING

Art Fair in Istanbul Showcases Works by Armenian Artists

ISTANBUL (Public Radio of Armenia) — Since 2010, art fair Contemporary Istanbul Association alone currently has around 1,200 members. “I would like to contribute to has been offering a special section called “Art from Armenia.” Although there are cur - this exhibition with many other Armenian artists in the coming years,” he added. rently no diplomatic ties between Turkey and Armenia, there is a growing cultural rela - This year, artist Mouradian is one of the fair’s special guests from Armenia. His paint - tionship which promises a brand new future for both countries. With the aim of dis - ings offer a combination of themes from mythological tales from the East and the West. covering regional art and gathering Armenian artists and Turkish art lovers, “Art from Based on the Bible and mythology, his world of fantasies tells the viewers a story they’ve Armenia” has hosted many Armenian painters in Istanbul over the past three years, never heard before. Today’s Zaman reports. When asked about the stories in his paintings, Mouradian said his only story was the This year’s “Art from Armenia” selection, on display until Sunday at the painting and the rest was up to art lovers. “I only paint. And people who are looking at IstanbulCongressCenter, features paintings and sculptures by six Armenian artists: my paintings read the story they see there. It is up to their imagination,” he added. This is Mouradian’s second visit to Istanbul in nine years. However, he said he was not able to see any art in Istanbul during his first visit, in 2004. His response tells a lot about the cultural relationship between Armenia and Turkey. Starting from no relationship, now we can imagine a closer dialogue. Onno Ayvaz, a collector and the coordinator of the exhibition, was the person who made this exhibition possible. He recalls: “A friend of mine, who is an antiquarian, invited several artists from Armenia to showcase their work in Contemporary Istanbul. But they did not accept his invitation. He called me at the last minute, asking for help. So, four years ago, I contributed to the exhibition with selected works by Armenian artists from my own col - lection.” Ayvaz was surprised by connoisseurs’ interest in the first “Art from Armenia.” He was asked to contribute in the following years as well. Ayvaz’s contribution and the huge interest paved the way for “Art from Armenia” to become a staple on the fair’s program. Ayvaz says this exhibition helps strengthen the relationship between the two countries: “Art is a very meaningful way to commu - nicate. Armenians and Turks, people who had lived together for hun - dreds of years, have been separated for the past 100 years. This is how Art fair in Istanbul featuring Armenian artists I see this situation. And you can feel the [similarity] in culture, in per - ception. Here [in this art fair] it is like we were never separated from each other.” Daron Mouradian, Vahram Davtian, Emil Kazaz, Armen Gevorgian, Ara Mikaelian and However, Ayvaz is troubled by bureaucratic difficulties arising from the lack of diplo - Ruben Grigorian. matic relationships between the two countries. All the paintings in the exhibition are Aram Sargsyan, the curator of the exhibition in 2011, has contributed to the exhibi - from his private collection because it is currently not possible to import paintings from tion this year as well. According to Sargsyan, people in Istanbul have respect for art. “I Armenia. Those who want to do so have to obtain special permission from the Turkish have seen many paintings on the walls of restaurants and they were high standard paint - government to transfer art work from Armenia. ings. So in Istanbul, you do not have to go to a museum, you are exposed to art every - “These bureaucratic processes are very exhausting. Seemingly, you can get that per - where.” mission, but bureaucrats are very hesitant to help because there are no diplomatic ties Mentioning the history of art in Armenia, Sargsyan is very proud of the young gen - between the two countries,” he said. “Nevertheless, we’ll keep trying and, who knows, eration artists who are contributing to the development of traditional Armenian art. maybe next year we can really bring works of art from Armenia to Contemporary Noting that Armenia has many talented artists, Sargsyan said the Armenian Art Istanbul,” he said.

Monsignor Andon Atamian’s Book Feted in Detroit

DETROIT, from page 10 misery of the Armenian people, touching The second part covers moralistic and reli - The writer never pays lip service to moral val - penned by an inspired orator to inspire his read - almost all subjects: Mesrob Mashtots — creation gious topics: human condition, dilemmas in life ues; he implements them in his daily life and he ership, he added. of the alphabet; the Genocide; the resurrection and man’s relations with his creator. partakes them with the youth. His message is The book is divided into three sections. In the of the independent republic; continued denial Atamian never contrasts his devotion to his cre - extremely convincing because he is sincere and first section the author delves into the complex of the genocide by Turkey, etc. ator with his commitment to his Armenian heritage. he speaks from the heart, according to Azadian. The last section of the book is dedicated to Iraq, once was a prosperous country which has since been reduced to ashes. Said Azadian, “he Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2013

Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor a Teacher’ program has raised over $563,000 and reached out to 4,440 teachers and school workers in Armenia and Karabagh.

£

K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue Father Atamian at lectern helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have the teacher’s name and address. communicates with the remnants of the K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— Armenian community decimated and torment - Name ed, with their churches destroyed, their lives Address scattered.” City State Zip code He noted, “All in all, it is an inspirational Tel: book by an inspired pastor, addressed to the readers who wish to live morally healthy lives.” Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 Atamian gave the concluding remarks, which Mail your check with this form to: were very emotional. He thanked the speaker, the program participants and the enthusiastic TCA Sponsor a Teacher 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 audience. Then the clergy joined the author to baptize the book in wine. Following the Your donation is Tax Deductible. Kinetson , the women of the CSAI presented a buffet. 12 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Ara Hagopian’s Artwork Selected For Lowell Exhibition

LOWELL, Mass. — “Jazz Music,” an abstract draw an abstract fish, with electric lines and tropical fish drawing by Wakefield native Ara jagged patterns,” Hagopian said. “ New music is Hagopian was one of two of his works selected like a hidden staircase in an old, familiar house by the Brush Art Gallery for inclusion in its cur - and the sounds transform into pictures on the rent exhibition, In Cold Blood: Reptiles, newly-revealed walls. ‘Jazz Music’ is one of Amphibians and Fish. The show is juried by those pictures,” he added. Carel Brest van Kempen, whose work has been Hagopian will be discussing his art and his exhibited worldwide. book on the “Jordan Rich Show,” WBZ Hagopian;s “Jazz Music,” was published NewsRadio 1030, on November 23 at midnight. along with its origins story in a collection of his The exhibition runs through December 7 at the works this summer, titled, What Happened to Brush Gallery, 256 Market St. Vicky Lee? A Collection of Stories, available at Hagopian, 48, is a Massachusetts artist, writ - vickyleethebook.com. The book features 25 of er and photographer. His pen-and-ink drawing Hagopian’s stories with illustrations. “The Magnificent Recovery” was selected by “When I heard music by jazz greats Freddy the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston for their 2008 Hubbard and Stanley Clark, I was inspired to summer art auction.

“Jazz Music” by Ara Hagopian

House Members Urge White House to Release Armenian Orphan Rug for Display

RUG, from page 1 “I am deeply moved by this action,” Dr. Armenian community,” Schiff explained. “The Hagop Martin Deranian, author of the book rug is not only a symbol of the resilience of the Calvin Coolidge and the Armenian Orphan Armenian people through their darkest days, it Rug, told the Assembly. “This issue has come also serves as a tangible expression of the inher - to light after many years of hard work. We ent truth that not only were 1.5 million people are speaking on behalf of the weavers and killed in the first genocide of the 20th Century, what they would want us to do. I am hopeful but that the American government was a cen - that this momentum will continue and that tral player in efforts to call attention to the the rug will soon be available for public view - plight of the Armenian people and provide relief ing.” to survivors.” In 1925, Dr. John H. Finley, editor-in-chief of In recent weeks, news reports surfaced alleg - the New York Times and vice-chairman of the ing that the White House succumbed to pres - congressionally-chartered Near East Relief orga - sure from the Turkish government and pur - nization presented a rug made by orphans of posely blocked a planned December exhibition the Armenian Genocide to Coolidge. The rug of the carpet at the Smithsonian Institution. was made in appreciation of America’s generos - The White House issued a statement saying ity in aiding the survivors of the Armenian that, “The Ghazir rug is a reminder of the close Genocide. It was previously displayed at the relationship between the peoples of Armenia White House in 1984 and 1995, but not since, and the United States. We regret that it is not an issue which the Assembly has raised with possible to loan it out at this time.” successive Administrations. The White House did not offer an explana - For more than a decade, the Assembly has tion as to what, or who, was preventing the called on the White House and the State release of the rug. Department to facilitate the release of the Meanwhile, the Assembly has been in close Armenian Orphan Rug for public display. “The contact with key Administration officials urging Armenian Assembly, once again, calls on the that the rug be prominently displayed, not only White House to release the Ghazir rug,” stated at the Smithsonian, but also at the White Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. “It is a piece House and made available for display in the US of American history and it belongs to the Capitol. American people,” stated Ardouny.

Gamavor Production Keeps Papazian-Sahagian Fortified

PLAY, from page 10 gral part of Armenia’s history and the catalyst offer their appreciation. Tiring as it was from behind its liberation movement during World playing the keyboard and directing her cast, War I. she greeted one and all with her usual charm. “It was a very emotional time for those liv - “Judging by the emotional reaction of ing in the Diaspora to send their loved ones off Gamavor relatives in attendance during all our to war in the homeland,” he said. “The courage shows, it’s safe to say that if Gamavor veterans and humanity of these unsung heroes epito - were alive today, they would take pride in the mizes our strength and vitality as a nation serv - knowledge that they have finally emerged from ing God.” the faded pages of forgotten history,” she added. Special thanks went to the Guild and Sona Rev. Antranig Baljian welcomed the gather - Aslanian for their efforts in bringing the troupe ing to his church, calling the Gamavors an inte - to Watertown. S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING CC AA LLEENNDDAARR

noon to 7 p.m. Takeout available. Homemade Armenian CONNECTICUT food with a wide variety of dry goods, jewelry, white ele - phant tables, arts and crafts. Come bring the children, eat, NOVEMBER 23- Holiday Fair 10-3pm, Holy Resurrection play games, browse and meet old friends and new ones. Armenian Church, 1910 Stanley Street, New Britain. NOVEMBER 25 — Lecture and dinner by the Knights Of Featuring Armenian food & pastries, Vendors for holiday Vartan Arshavir Lodge No. 2 and Daughters Of Vartan shopping, Kitchen Cafe, Santa appearance from 11 a.m. Santoukht Otyag No. 5 , 6 p.m., Church Hall of the to 1 p.m. Admission is free. For more info, contact the Armenian Church Of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury St., church office at 860-223-7875. Worcester. Guest Speaker Joseph Dagdigian will discuss and show photographs of rarely seen sites taken during MASSACHUSETTS his trip to Armenia: “Exploring The Hidden Armenia.” A roast beef dinner catered by Ron Pahigian is $15 per per - NOVEMBER 16 — Armenian Women’s Welfare son. Reservations at 774-261-0108. Association (AWWA) 38th Annual Luncheon Auction, DECEMBER 6 AND 7 — Trinity Christmas Bazaar, Friday, Burlington Marriott, Burlington; 11 a.m. silent auction 3-9 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Holy Trinity and bidding; Guest auctioneers Al Kaprielian and Cindy Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. Fitzgibbon; $60 per person, Visa and MasterCard accept - DECEMBER 7 — St. Asdvadzadzin Armenian Church of ed. For reservations and info, contact: awwaauc - Whitinsville Annual Bazaar, hosted at the Pleasant [email protected]. Street Christian Reformed Church, 25 Cross St., 10 a.m.- NOVEMBER 16 — Second annual Mer Doon Benefit 4:30 p.m.; dinner served from 11:30 a.m. onward and Dance, 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., Charles Mosesian Cultural ample parking available. and Youth Center, 465 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown. The Knights of Vartan, Arshavir DECEMBER 15 — Erevan Choral Society and Orchestra- Featuring John Berberian, Bob Mougamian, Mal Lodge No. 2, and the Daughters of Christmas Holiday Concer t, 7 p.m., Church Sanctuary, Barsamian and Bruce Gigarian. Mezza, dessert table and Vartan Santoukht Otyag No. 5, will Holy Trinity Armenian Church 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. more. Tickets: $40 adult, $30 student; for tickets and Save the date, details to follow. table reservations, please call Mark at 617-256-5358. host a lecture and dinner at the NOVEMBER 16 — 50th anniversary celebration of the Church Hall of the Armenian Church MICHIGAN Lowell Armenian Relief Society Center, 6:30 p.m., 142 of the Saviour, 87 Salisbury St., Liberty St., Lowell. MA. Appetizers, cocktails, music. Free Worcester on November 25, at 6 NOVEMBER 24 — Members and friends of Detroit admission, donations welcomed. Reservations by Nov. p.m. Guest speaker Joseph Tekeyan Cultural Association honor the retiring chair- 9, please call either Sona Gevorkian, (781) 275-8875, or Dagidgian will discuss and show pho - man of the TCA CHAPTER, Nora Azadian, 5 p.m., Sossy Jeknavorian, (978) 256-2538. tographs of rarely-seen sites taken Belian Art Center, Troy. NOVEMBER 17 — “The Survival of Empathy: Zabel during his trip to Armenia. Yessayan and Post-Genocidal Armenian Literature,” Reservations at 774-261-0108. NEW YORK presentation by Columbia University Professor Nanor Kebranian. 2 p.m., Armenian Cultural Foundation, DECEMBER 7 — The Sixth Annual AGBU Per forming Arlington. Sponsored by the Armenian International Artists in Concert, 8 p.m., Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Women’s Association, with the National Association for ing the 25th anniversary of the earthquake in Armenia; Hall, 154 West 57th St., presented by the AGBU New York Armenian Studies and Research and the Armenian soloist Nina Hovsepian, accompanied by Mary Barooshian; Special Events Committee to benefit its performing arts Cultural Foundation. donation, $20 adults, $10 students. programs in commemoration of the 1998 earthquake in DECEMBER 6 — Anniversary celebration by Lowell NOVEMBER 22 and 23 — Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Armenia. Under the direction of violinist Nazig Tchakarian, “Aharonian” Gomideh, 6:30 p.m., St. Gregory Church, Church of Chelmsford Annual Bazaar, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., the event will feature arts fellows from Bulgaria, France, North Andover; dinner and program honoring 50-year 180 Old Westford Road, Exit 32 off Route 3, Drum Hill Mexico and the US. Tickets: $35, $65, for more info, con - members Steve Dulgarian and Joe Dagdigian; remember - Rotary. Event will feature lunch and dinner served from 12 tact 212-319-6383.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Armenian Genocide Museum Institute Sign Memo of Understanding

MUSEUM, from page 1 “The Armenian Genocide is an important leaders of the Ottoman Empire (the forerunner France, Russia and Great Britain, in May 1915, International Institute for Genocide and human rights story,” said Demoyan. “The con - of the modern-day Republic of Turkey) made a where the Ottoman Empire atrocities directed Human Rights Studies (A Division of the cept of crimes against humanity was developed brutal attempt to destroy the empire’s entire against the Armenian people was defined as Zoryan Institute of Canada) - a Canadian orga - in response to this horrific series of violations Armenian population, targeting them on ethnic “new crimes against humanity and civilization.” nization which advances scholarship and public against the Armenian people. The intent of the and religious grounds, along with other In 2004, the Canadian House of Commons awareness relating to issues of universal human Ottoman Turkish government to annihilate its Christian subjects-the Assyrians and Greeks. passed a resolution to recognize this genocide. rights, genocide, and diaspora-homeland rela - Armenian citizens is not only a crime against The Genocide began in 1915 with the execution “By raising awareness of the Armenian tions. Representatives of the IIGHRS officially humanity, but also genocide. The denial of the of Armenian leaders. Then authorities rounded Genocide, we hope to remind people of the witnessed the signing and will serve an ongoing genocide by the inheritors of the perpetrator up Armenian men, women and children. The importance of breaking the silence on human role as liaison and facilitators. state and others is itself a violation of the victims were massacred or forced on death rights violations. We look forward to working human rights of the survivors and their descen - marches through the desert. Many died of star - with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights dants. This partnership will help bring the story vation. The perpetrators tried to hide these on this goal,” said Demoyan. of the Armenian Genocide to a wider audience, mass killings from the world. One of the audience, Jack Garabed, a to the benefit of generations to come.” The first international reaction to the Manitoban descendant of an Armenian During and after the First World War, the Genocide resulted in a joint statement by Genocide survivor, came to see this historic partnership and shared the story of his father, Garabedi Haroutounian. He spoke of his grand - father being taken away one night and mur - Scholarships Available dered. They took his father away and placed him in an orphanage. He believes his Grandmother escaped into Egypt with some of For the younger children. His father was forced to change religion. The Salvation Army arranged Students of Armenian Descent to have three children in the orphanage, includ - ing his father, transported to Canada. Having Completed One Year of College by June, 2014 Haroutounian left the other two boys in Applications and other information may be obtained from Montreal and continued on to Manitoba. He was fascinated by the train ride, and wanted to ARMENIAN STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION extend it as far as he could. The train brought Scholarship Committee him to Winnipeg, and from there he was placed Entertainment Fridays 333 Atlantic Avenue, Warwick, RI 02888 with farmers in the Killarney area. Tel. 401 461-6114, Fax 401 461-6112 The CMHR is the first museum in the world and Saturdays email: [email protected], website: www.asainc.org solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration Deadline for returning completed applications: March 15, 2014 and future of human rights. It is the first nation - al museum in Canada to be built outside the National Capital Region. 14 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

THE ARMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror Profusion of Medals: Spectator Compensation or Compromise? Come to think, by the unrestricted dispensation of those By Edmond Y. Azadian medals, the authorities, eventually, insult the intelligence of the Diasporan Armenians, believing that those methods can buy influence, loyalty and sacrifice. Established 1932 The Russian novelist Anton Chekhov once wrote a satirical Any contribution to or sacrifice for Armenia loses its value short story about the significance of medals in 19th-century the moment the motivation becomes reciprocal compensa - An ADL Publication Russian society. The story dwells on the predicament of a tion. And unfortunately, our poor homeland has not much poor teacher who is invited to a dinner party in high society more to offer than those pieces of metal to reward those con - circles. To prove that he deserves the honor, he decides to tributors. EDITOR borrow a medal from a friend. Upon arriving at the party, It is really very difficult to differentiate who is more naïve: Alin K. Gregorian however, he encounters an acquaintance, who knows that he the people who shower those honors or those who get the has not received such an honor. The teacher tries to hide the medals? Maybe both. ASSISTANT EDITOR medal, devising many ruses which eventually spoil the dinner When those medals were awarded sparingly, the recipients Gabriella Gage and the evening. But before taking his leave, he discovers that were distinguished members of the community and they

ASSOCIATE EDITOR his acquaintance is also in the same boat, trying to hide his stood above the multitudes. But today, when the spigot of Aram Arkun own borrowed medal. those awards has been turned loose, the value of those Chekhov ridiculed characters chasing such vanities. He medals is dead on arrival. ART DIRECTOR Individuals with self-esteem need to think seriously if the Marc Mgrditchian died in 1905 and yet, since then, not much has changed in that part of the world when it comes to tributes. medals they have received truly signify an appreciation for a The Soviet inheritors of the Russian Empire also stressed righteous deed or whether they have been decorated with an the significance of those medals, to the point that many anec - ulterior motive. SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: dotes and jokes were cracked about Leonid Brezhnev, a par - Of course, the generous distribution of medals needs to be Edmond Azadian ticular devotee of medals. As the chevrons on his lapel distinguished from the prizes awarded to the writers, scien - extended, Armenians were wondering that they had never tists, scholars and performers by the government or by other CONTRIBUTORS: organizations, since the latter come with monetary compen - Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiune seen hyphenated chevrons. Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. Today, those coveted medals can be bought at the sation, which will go a long way to inspire new pieces of lit - Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der Vernissage, the glorified flea market in Yerevan, for pennies. erature or composition, or new volumes of academic work. Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork But, on the other hand, the tradition seems to be Now that there is a large army of medal bearers, where do Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , entrenched in Armenia so much so that pretty soon no tourist we begin to raise our value system? Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop will return from Yerevan without a medal awarded by an Of course, the change has to begin from the top. But before Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian authority or agency in Armenia. adopting a new system, there has to be a change in our peo - The same may apply also to the church. It looks like soon ple’s mentality and attitude. Brezhnev is dead and his medals CORRESPONDENTS: the recipients of medals will outnumber Armenians who have have been buried with him; we cannot buy them at the Armenia - Hagop Avedikian been deprived of such honors. Vernissage anymore. Boston - Nancy Kalajian Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian In the past, the people who were awarded such medals were Once we change our mentality, it would be rather easy to Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach few and far between. But today, the abundance of such come up with a new value system. Committees of unbiased medals leaves everyone baffled and devalues the honor. Some and qualified scholars may be assigned with the task; people Contributing Photographers: Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair recipients even wonder what good deed they have done for who truly are familiar with the face (and the heart) of the Hovsepian Armenia in order to deserve such honors. diaspora and Armenia. They can come up with a short list of It looks as if the time has come to revise the value system candidates who should be vetted properly, before being nom - in Armenia, where they seem to be banking on the naiveté of inated for the awards. That way, no recommendation can be Diasporan Armenians. It is true that for some people, those smuggled on the list of nominations if all they have done is The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published treat a minister to lunch or given a lavish present. weekly, except two weeks in July, by: medals serve as an effective bait to get them to make some contributions. But, as time goes on, with the proliferation of During the last 21 years, from the ashes of the ragtag fight - Baikar Association, Inc. those honors, the value system is undermined and deserving ers an effective army was formed in Armenia. Legislative and 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 people cannot be distinguished from the ones who have taken executive branches of government were put in place. Telephone: 617-924-4420 the bait and been elevated to a rank to which they don’t Therefore, Armenia’s value system should also correspond to FAX: 617-924-2887 belong. those developments. If fewer people from the diaspora are www.mir ror spectator.com There is a saturation point where the law of diminishing medaled, the Diasporan-Armenians will feel more honored, E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com returns is activated. not less, if and when their turn comes. For advertising: [email protected] Yet another group in the diaspora is critical of generous dis - If today Anton Chekhov were to be resurrected, I have no tribution of those questionable honors, that is, until their reason to hide my own medals. But, in my soul searching, I turn arrives. At that point, they believe that unlike undeserv - will always wonder where I stand in the value system of those ing honorees, they are meritorious and have fully earned the who have awarded the medals to me. SUBSCRIPTION RATES : honors. But eventually, they are bundled in the same batch of peo - Note: This article is dedicated to the memory of my dear ple who had been wearing those medals, whether they friend, the late Arsen Demerjian who motivated me to write U.S.A. $80 a year deserved them or not. about this topic before his untimely death.

Canada $125 a year

Other Countries $190 a year

© 2011 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator Who Earns Russia’s Protection? Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA and additional mailing offices. listic missile systems, zenith-missile division Security Treaty Organization, pointed to ISSN 0004-234X By Gohar Abrahamyan and MIG-29 jet fighter aircrafts. Azeri the fact that Russia has been selling large POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The media interpreted it as a threat while head amounts of weaponry to Armenia’s arch-foe Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, of Defense Ministry’s security department, Azerbaijan: “During today’s meeting an Watertown, MA 02471-0302 MOSCOW (ArmeniaNow) — A Russian Russian Major General Anatoli Vasyak said issue was raised to the effect on whether Other than the editorial, views and opinions colonel’s statement made in an interview Thursday night that the Russian military it’s time to work out a legal mechanism expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily with the Russian defense ministry’s official base would never get involved in the that would prevent such supplies in the eflect the policies of the publisher. newspaper early last month — Armenian Karabagh conflict, as Nagorno Karabagh is future.” media, however, covered the news only not Russian or Armenian territory; hence According to the analyst, in this way Thursday — has stirred unease in has no connection to Collective Security Russia is trying to emphasize the serious - Azerbaijan, as some interpreted it as a Treaty Organization (CSTO), haqqin.az ness of its relations with Armenia, especial - threat of war against Azerbaijan by Russia. reports. Prior to Ruzinsky’s statement, ly after Armenia’s September 3 decision on Chief of the 102nd Russian military unit, Armenian experts shared the opinion that joining the Customs Union. “To some Colonel Andrey Ruzinski announced that if the CSTO agreement had nothing to do degree this was an answer not only to the Copying for other than personal use or Azerbaijan attacks Nagorno-Karabagh, the with active hostilities directly in the terri - periodical bellicose rhetoric on internal reference is prohibited without Russian military mission in Armenia: “can tory of Nagorno Karabagh. Azerbaijan’s part, but also the aggressive express permission of the copyright owner. Address requests for reprints or be involved in the hostilities in accordance Political analyst Tigran Abrahamyan said steps on the border, especially frequent back issues to: with Russia’s commitments within the in reference to Ruzinsky’s statement that it recently. Moreover, the Russian side states Baikar Association, Inc. CSTO frame.” Ruzinski also added that the is interesting that Anatoly Vyborny, the openly that any incursion against Armenia Russian military unit in Armenia is Russian chairman of the committee on and Karabagh, be it by separate incidents 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 equipped with C-300B anti-ballistic missile, defense and security of CSTO or large-scale hostilities, is a threat against Smerch artillery, BUK-1-2 anti-bal - Parliamentary Assembly of the Collective Russia,” said the analyst. S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

Turkish Parliament’s Foreign Relations Committee that Protocols, President Serge Sargisian should carry out his preparations are underway to open the border with promise of three years ago, when he warned that unless Armenia. When confronted by an opposition parliamentar - Turkey ‘shortly’ ratifies the Protocols, he would reconsider ian about Turkey’s true intentions, Davutoglu quickly his position on this issue, implying that Armenia would reversed himself, stating that Armenia must first withdraw withdraw from this agreement. Since the Protocols are still My Turn from Karabagh before the border could be opened. not ratified four years after they were signed, Sargisian The foreign minister made similar remarks a month ago should declare them null and void. By Harut Sassounian while visiting Switzerland, when he announced that Turkey Understandably, Armenian officials are reluctant to take was looking for “creative ideas” to improve its relations such a drastic step, as they are concerned that the major with Armenia. Davutoglu’s creative or rather clever ploy is powers would blame them for the Protocols’ failure. Armenia Should Renounce to avoid looking like an obstructionist, while making excus - Armenia would prefer that the Turkish side be the first to Turkish Protocols Long before es for his country’s refusal to ratify the Protocols. withdraw from the Protocols, and thereby bear the blame Back in 2009, the Turkish government appeared eager to for their collapse. Turkish officials could be playing the Genocide Centennial ratify the Protocols which included various extraneous same blame game, by waiting for Armenia to be the first to matters, including the formation of a committee of histori - withdraw. Expecting a public relations nightmare during the ans to study archival documents on the Armenian In my view, Armenia can no longer afford to wait. With Armenian Genocide Centennial, Turkish officials are anx - Genocide. When Azerbaijan vehemently objected to the centennial of the Armenian Genocide less than 18 ious to prevent further damage to their country’s already Turkish plans to open the border with Armenia, Turkey months away, Armenia’s president should do what he tarnished reputation. announced that it could no longer ratify the Protocols, promised three years ago and withdraw his government’s Even though they have no intention to open the border even though it was clearly in its national interest to do so. signature from the ill-fated Protocols. Armenia could not be with Armenia, Turkey’s leaders are pretending to do so by Thus, despite its claims of being a major regional power, blamed for this action, as Turkish officials have repeatedly constantly issuing fake conciliatory statements. By falsely Turkey caved in to Azerbaijan’s veto. During his remarks in announced that they have no intention of ratifying the claiming that Turkey is in the process of patching up its dif - the Turkish Parliament on November 6, Davutoglu sheep - Protocols. ferences with Armenia, Ankara’s hidden agenda is to dis - ishly reiterated that his country would open its border with Not surprisingly, Davutoglu also declared last week that courage additional countries from recognizing the Armenia only after obtaining Azerbaijan’s permission. Turkish efforts to counter Armenian plans for the 100th Armenian Genocide. Clearly embarrassed by this leak to the press, a Turkish anniversary of the Genocide are moving forward ‘at full However, given Azerbaijan’s paranoid reaction to any Foreign Ministry spokesman denied that Davutoglu had speed.’ In order not to allow Turkey to undermine world - talk of Turkey opening its border with Armenia, Turkish made such a statement. This is not a credible denial as wide Armenian commemorations for the Genocide officials are forced to retreat by warning that the Armenia- Turkish officials have made similar statements many times Centennial, Armenia’s leaders must renounce the Protocols Turkey border would remain closed, unless ‘progress’ is before. One plausible explanation for reviving the prospect long before April 24, 2015. made on the Karabagh (Artsakh) issue. of opening the border and railway link to Armenia could be Furthermore, given the Turkish government’s century- Such contradictory Turkish statements have been issued Turkey’s intent to pressure the newly-elected President of old intransigence to acknowledge its culpability for the countless times, ever since Armenia and Turkey signed Georgia who refuses to support the long-planned Kars- Genocide and refusal to make appropriate amends, Protocols in 2009 to open their mutual border and estab - Tbilisi-Baku railway which was expected to circumvent Armenian officials should announce that they plan to seek lish diplomatic relations. As recently as last week, Foreign Armenia. justice, at long last, by applying to local, regional and inter - Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told a closed session of the To put an end to continuous Turkish exploitation of the national courts.

Appreciation: Patriarch Torkom Manoogian: Prince of the Church of Armenia

for ecumenical spiritual assemblies as for political and cultural By Hagop Vartivarian affairs. It became the starting point for commemorations of the anniversaries of the Armenian Genocide, a podium for political demands and a concert and exhibition hall for cultural life. The “The Armenian people have a just cause; they must make anniversaries of deserving figures, such as Patriarch Gregory their voice heard everywhere.” the Chain Bearer of Jerusalem, Catholicos Mgrdich Khrimian A year has already passed since the death of Patriarch and poet Vahan Tekeyan, were celebrated here. In the cathedral, Torkom Manoogian. New York Armenians became acquainted with Lusine Zakarian, Armenian Americans still mourn his loss. He spent the the Lisitsian sisters, Simon Simonian, Sero Khanzadyan, greater part of his life in the service of the largest diocese, in Antranig Dzarougian, Vartkes Bedrosian and Zori Balayan. the United States and Canada. His service and mission were to Torkom Srpazan was always in motion. From one corner to keep the diocese unshakably faithful to the Mother See of Holy the other of this vast land, he managed to inspire his parishes Echmiadzin, to preserve national values — our language, cul - and people. He did this in a fatherly fashion; he did this as the ture, traditions, ancestral heritage and virtue — among the new great shepherd of the diocese. He did not know the meaning of Armenian-American generation, to preserve the ecclesiastical fatigue, but completely devoted his time to the well-being of our system, to maintain fraternal diaspora-homeland relations, to community. During his term in office, new sanctuaries of preserve the Great Dream, as travelers on that path and to keep Armenian faith and culture rose up every year, along with new the doors of Armenian churches open to new emigrants from Saturday schools. New books and music albums were issued, in the Middle East. equal numbers in English and in Armenian. And he did all this with complete devotion, faith and love. He New promising youth came to serve the church. He brought knew the value of true intellectuals — he who bowed before the new priests to America from Jerusalem who today are worthy Armenian teacher who teaches our native language, he who occupants of patriarchal or diocesan offices. understood how to properly venerate our culture’s promoters, He remained close to the members of the great family of the he who established brotherly ties to those admirable intellectu - Tekeyan Cultural Association because the archbishop found als, Peniamin Nourigian, Antranig Antreassian, Souren with them true intimacy. He liked and respected them greatly Manuelian, Mihrtad Tiryakian, and the Vahe Haigs and the because he believed in their ideological path and agreed with Hrach Yervants who dedicated their talents to connecting the their Armenian national patriotic work. He unconditionally kept new generation to our land and homeland — to Van, Kharpert, the doors of the diocese wide open for their activities. Sasoun and Cilicia. Finally, he became the cleric who served the American On these cold shores, he praised the inimitable genius of Eastern Diocese of the Church of Armenia for the longest peri - Komitas. He interpreted the poetry of the prince of poets, od as Primate and as a priest. He was an irreproachable cleric, Vahan Tekeyan. He honored the martyred writers. He sang and an exemplary personality, the likes of whom unfortunately are recited their works spiritually, with heart and nostalgia. This few today in the ranks of the Church of Armenia. was because he himself was an orphan from Van who knew In addition to his numerous other talents, it must be stressed exile and deportation, the deprivations of the Arabian desert that he was a good interpreter of Komitas. and the humanity of the good Arab people. And he grew up in During the sad days of the Earthquake, Manoogian took the the Armenian national and spiritual atmosphere of Jerusalem, well-known physician Dr. Edgar Housepian and the great the Holy City, surrounded by Armenian refugees and great American-Armenian philanthropist Kevork Hovnanian to the teachers like Koushagian and Oshagan. disaster zone, to Leninakan and Spitak. He led efforts to send Patriarch Torkom directed all his love to the reborn home - aid, and properly praised the assistance provided to Armenia by land, Soviet Armenia. There he found the steadfast refuge of our the United States. dreams, of our plans for the future. Every day he disseminated He served for a period of time as locum tenens in the Mother the spirit of patriotism a little more among Armenian See after the death of Catholicos Vazken until the election of Americans, and made Yerevan, the land of Siwnik, and Mother Karekin I. Araxes loved. Through pilgrimages he impelled the Armenian- He was elected as Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, and American masses to recognize that in the end, our homeland is accomplished many things. I will write about them in my forth - the land of our Armenia — but only with its Ararat. coming article. With the construction of the cathedral of St. Vartan in the sense of the word. The great political, spiritual and cultural fig - His own words are worth remembering: “The time has come heart of New York City, he bestowed pride upon the Armenians ures of the time visited there, from Henry Kissinger to Cardinal for us to go beyond our [Armenian] national boundaries and that they were not immigrants any longer, but an established, John O’Connor, and that idol of classical music, Placido make our voice audible in international circles.” stable collectivity within this great land — a presence in the full Domingo. The cathedral turned into a meeting place as much (Translated from the original Armenian) 16 S ATURDAY , N OVEMBER 16, 2013 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR