APRIL 2, 2016 Mirror-SpeTHE ARMENIAN ctator Volume LXXXVI, NO. 37, Issue 4431 $ 2.00 NEWS The First English Language in the United States Since 1932 INBRIEF 19 Percent of President Sargisian Arrives in Boston Armenian Children Under 5 Are Stunted Reception Hosted (Mediamax) — Around 15 percent of At households in have not had adequate food since 2010 and a significant proportion are at risk WATERTOWN — President Serge of becoming food insecure. This statistic was stated Sargisian and his entourage arrived in in the joint report of Armenian National Statistical Boston on Monday, March 28, for the Service, UN World Food Programme (WFP) and Armenian leader’s inaugural visit to UN Children’s Fund, which reports that numerous Massachusetts. households have serious nutrition problems. As part of his first day’s activities, the According to the report, the dual malnutrition president, accompanied by Diaspora burden hampers the ability of Armenia to reach its Minister Hranoush Hakobyan, as well as his full human and socio-economic potential. chief of staff, Vigen Sargisian, and a large The report indicates that Armenia is exposed to entourage including the Primate of the multiple risks, and that 28 percent of households Diocese of the Armenian Church of are at risk of becoming food insecure if affected by America (Eastern) Archbishop Khajag any financial downturns. Moreover, 19 percent of Barsamian, Armenia’s Ambassador to the children under age 5 are reported to have stunted US Grigor Hovhannisian and Minister of growth, and almost 15 percent were found to be Education Levon Mkrtchyan, visited the overweight. The stunted condition is caused by offices of the Tekeyan Cultural Association chronic malnutrition in which children are small for and the Armenian Mirror-Spectator, spon- their age. sored by the parent organization, the UN World Food Programme Representative in Armenian Democratic Liberal Party. Armenia Pascale Micheau noted that previous About 50 people awaited the arrival of international studies had shown that child under- the Armenian president. Young children, nutrition impacts negatively the Gross Domestic Raffi Arkun and Patil Mardiros, dressed in Product of the country as a result of increased Armenian costumes, greeted President healthcare costs and lower productivity. Sargisian as he was entering the building, The report recommends early identification of with the traditional bread and salt. malnutrition risks as a means of reducing stunting, Another half a dozen youth surrounded while tackling obesity through increased awareness the president and his entourage on their The President was greeted by Raffi Arkun and Patil Mardiros with the traditional salt and on proper nutrition. way into the building. bread. Hasmik Mardiros stands with the children. It also suggests strengthening food security see VISIT, page 8 through investments in youth and women employ- ment, rural development, social protection and edu- cation. Writer Smpad Deputy PM Says Joining Diyarbakir’s Surp Giragos Devletian Dies EEU Has Been Positive YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Based on the analysis Church Expropriated by of one-year membership rates, this week Deputy By Hagop Vartivarian Prime Minister of Armenia, Minister of Turkish Authorities International Economic Integration and Reform NICOSIA, Cyprus — Writer and Vache Gabrielyan said he is happy with Armenia joining the Eurasian Economic Union. (, Armepress) — While clashes and curfews continue in Armenian Democratic Liberal activist “We analyzed the indicators of the first six Diyarbakir, the Turkish cabinet took an urgent decision to expropriate Surp Smbad Devletian died here on March 24 at months of Armenia’s accession to the Eurasian Giragos Church, the largest Armenian church in Middle East. the age of 93. Economic Union, which are posted on the min- Left to its own fate for years, the church was finally restored and opened to wor- istry’s website. There is also a brief overview of the ship in 2011. With the same decision, Assyrian, Chaldean and Protestant church- whole year. This analysis separates the develop- es have also been expropriated. ments of Russian economy from EEU opportuni- According to the cabinet decision published in Official Journal on March 25, an ties, which in any case, being a union member or “urgent expropriation” decision is taken concerning 6.300 plots of land in the Sur. not, the effect of the economic situation of the With this decision, many places in Abdaldede, Alipasa, Cemal Yilmaz, Camikebir, Russian Federation impacts all the surrounding Cevatpasa, Dabanoglu, Hasirli, Inönü, Iskenderpasa, Lalebey, Malikahmet, countries, including Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Özdemir, Süleymangazi, Savas, Semhane and Ziyagökalp neighborhoods and two others. From this perspective, our analysis shows neighborhoods in Yenisehir province are expropriated. that Armenia’s membership has been positive,” he Aside from Surp Giragos, Surp Sarkis Chaldean Church, the Armenian Catholic said, adding that the situation could have been Church, Virgin Mary Ancient Assyrian Church and the Protestant Church are have worse if Armenia had not joined the Eurasian also been expropriated. see DIYARBAKIR, page 16 Economic Union. INSIDE Smpad Devletian

He was born on the Greek island of TCA Lesbos in 1923, where his parents had fled to from Turkey. He studied through fourth grade in the Greek school in Kavala. He Laughter went to fifth and six grades at the Armenian school of Kavala, and afterwards Page 11 continued his education at the Melkonian Educational Institute of Cyprus, from which he graduated in 1942. He went to England to attend university, INDEX and after passing all the law examinations Arts and Living ...... 10 of the Council of Legal Education, he Armenia ...... 2 received the title of Barrister-at-Law. In Community News...... 4 addition, he graduated from the depart- Editorial ...... 14 Surp Giragos Armenian Church in Diyarbakir International ...... 3 ment of jurisprudence of the University of London. see DEVLETIAN, page 3 2 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Physics Lecture Series Continues at Alikhanian National Laboratory Flemish Region to Help YERVAN — The primary goal of the edge gained during the first two semes- In March a foreign member of the Karabagh out of Master’s program started at the ters, these abilities were strengthened National Academy of Sciences of the Blockade: Parliament Yerevan Physics Institute (YerPhI – A. during the one-year-long research Republic of Armenia (NAS RA) and for- Alikhanyan National Laboratory) in phase of the third and fourth semes- mer employee of the National Speaker 2014 was to impart expertise in current ters. Laboratory, Prof. Alexander research topics based on a deep knowl- Since the beginning of the new Khodjamirian from Siegen University, YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Flemish and edge of the fundamentals of experi- semester in February, a series of new Germany, has been invited to present a Nagorno Karabagh schools will cooperate in the mental physics. YerPhI physicists with lectures with invited speakers are lecture series at National Laboratory. framework of a new project, in a move to help broad international expertise teach planned. Prof. Ashot Chilingarian, direc- His lectures will cover the modern the- Artsakh out of blockade, Belgian MP, Flemish parlia- research methods, data analysis and tor of YerPhI and head of its Cosmic ory of elementary particles, recent dis- ment speaker Karl Vanlouwe said Monday, March 14. modeling, critical evaluation of scientif- Currently in Armenia, the Flemish delegation, ic findings, and the ability to proceed headed by Vanlouwe, will visit the Nagorno Karabagh methodically in high-energy physics and Republic afterwards. At a meeting with Armenia’s astrophysics. Building on the knowl- deputy parliament speaker Eduard Sharmazanov, Vanlouwe stressed the importance of protection of human rights and, in this context, Karabagh people’s right to self-determination. Sharmazanov, in turn, thanked the Flemish dele- IDeA and National gation for their willingness to visit the Karabagh, Geographic Announce reiterating Armenia’s resolve to achieve an exclusive- ly peaceful settlement to the conflict. Collaboration for Also, the Armenian official expressed gratitude to the Flemish delegate for his participation in the Tourism Boost events commemorating the Armenian Genocide cen- YEREVAN (Mediamax) — The tennial and the global forum Against the Crime of Initiatives for Development of Armenia Genocide. In addition, Sharmazanov hailed the (IDeA) Charitable Foundation and Belgian parliament’s reaffirmation of its stance on National Geographic Partners have the first genocide of the 20th century. Sharmazanov signed a memorandum of understand- described Turkey’s policy of denial as a threat to the ing to conduct a preliminary review of region and humanity in general, citing the develop- sustainable tourism development ments in the Middle East. opportunities in Armenia. The initial research will include rec- Physics Lecturer Ara Daryan with Armenian master’s program physics students at Yerevan Physics Institute / AANL Russian PM Dmitry ommendations on product potential for developing Armenia’s cultural and nat- Medvedev to Visit ural attractions based upon the three Ray Division (CRD) has started joint coveries at Large Hadron Collider, the pillars of sustainable tourism: environ- video lecture courses for YerPhI master basics of Quantum Electrodynamics, Armenia April 7 mentally-friendly practices; support for courses for students of National and the role of hadronic effects in elec- the protection of cultural and natural YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Russian Prime Research Nuclear University (MePHI in troweak phenomena. heritage; and delivering social and eco- Minister Dmitry Medvedev will visit Yerevan on April Russia) dedicated to a new scientific These lectures are at an introductory nomic benefits to local people. 7 to attend a meeting of the Intergovernmental topic in which physicists of the Cosmic level and are intended mainly for the Costas Christ, editor at large for Council of the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), the Ray division have made major contri- physicists working in experimental National Geographic Traveler, will trav- head of Armenia’s government said on March 17. butions; namely “High energy physics groups and for the master and PhD stu- el to Armenia in late April to lead a pre- According to , also attending in the atmosphere.” Students in Russia dents specializing in experimental liminary tourism development assess- the gathering will be the prime ministers of other follow these lectures, ask questions, physics. ment on behalf of National Geographic. EEU member counties. and respond with comments via the In May Professor Jean Lilensten, Christ, who is recognized as one of the “During the meeting, we’ll discuss the possibility Internet. Foreign citizens and stateless research director at the Institut de world’s foremost experts on sustainable of paying for the Russian gas with rubles,” said individuals are permitted to enroll in Planétologie et d’Astrophysique de tourism, works with National Abrahamyan. MePHI according to the laws of the Grenoble (France) is invited to deliver Geographic’s Travel group, for which he The Armenian official said talks with Russia over Russian Federation. The cycle of 6 lec- lectures to YerPhI master students. serves as director of sustainable gas price reduction are still underway, with the tures will be continued until the end of These new series of short lecture tourism and oversees field audits for Presidents of both countries having addressed the March. Below is the link to the master courses are not limited by the duration the National Geographic Unique issue during a recent meeting. courses of YerPhI: of the talks; they have tendency to be Lodges of the World. The price of $165 for the imported 1000 cubic http://www.yerphi.am/index.php/y extended to include additional interest- As part of the Armenia research trip, meters of gas will be preserved through April 1,. oung-scientists-and-students/master- ing and relevant topics thus deepening Christ will meet with government repre- Armenia used to pay $189 for the same volume. courses the students’ knowledge. sentatives, community leaders, business owners and tourism operators to assess Public Radio of Armenia the challenges and opportunities for sustainable tourism development to Armenian National Assembly VP Praises To Augment Yazidi promote economic growth, while safe- Service guarding Armenia’s natural treasures Warm Relations with Kuwait and rich cultural heritage for future YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Public Radio of generations. Working closely with YEREVAN (Armenpress) — On March 22 Armenian National Assembly Armenia announced that its broadcast will dedicate IDeA, Christ’s recommendations will (NA) Vice President Eduard Sharmazanov received Minister of Justice more attention towards ethnic minorities of provide guidance on Armenia’s tourism Yaqoub Abdulmohsen Al-Sane and delegation led by him. Armenia, their problems and religious-cultural iden- strategy based upon globally recog- The meeting was attended by Ambassador of Armenia to Kuwait Fadey tity. The representatives of the largest ethnic minor- nized criteria for sustainable tourism Charchoghlyan and Kuwait’s Ambassador to Armenia Bassam Mohammed ity of Armenia, the Yazidis, were hosted at the Public principles and practices. Al-Qabandi. Radio to introduce their perceptions and suggestions “Global scope and collaboration and Sharmazanov highly assessed warm relations between the two countries over the new cooperation format. using best international practices and and noted that despite the existence of a strong partnership, there are sec- The Public Radio of Armenia has given voice to the standards for creating new local bench- tors which have potential and opportunity to get developed. Yazidi community by airing a 30-minute program marks are among the key principles of Sharmazanov expressed gratitude to Kuwait for the humanitarian mea- every day for 26 years now. This is of key importance IDeA Foundation and based on that we sures to Armenian refugees who had survived the Armenian Genocide and for the preservation of Yazidi language, religion and are starting to work with National given them a welcome. He expressed confidence that Al-Sane’s visit to the traditions, but it is high time to improve the Yazidi Geographic Partners. I am sure that Armenia’s parliament will be a new impetus to develop already developed ties service. this cooperation will help us to explore and implement new and mutually beneficial projects. In this context, the The leadership of the Public Radio aims at expand- the best ways of presenting Armenia to interlocutors stressed the importance of cooperation and mutual visits of the ing the radio platform for the Yazidi people. “We’ll the world and include them in the parliamentary friendship groups. try to fill the gaps, by providing listeners with infor- IDeA’s Tourism Development Strategy,” The two also discussed terrorism worldwide as well as finding a solution mation related to Yazidis of the world, launching dis- said Edgar Manukyan, CEO of IDeA for the security of Nagorno Karabagh. cussions on issues of concern featuring Armenian Foundation. He stressed that terrorism has neither nationality nor religion. He con- and international experts,” said Gayane Gasparyan, “Armenia is a beautiful country with demned the terrorist act in Brussels held hours before, which caused the loss head of the Overseas Service of the Public Radio of a rich and proud cultural heritage. of innocent lives and injuries. Armenia. Protecting that heritage and caring for Sharmazanov considered necessary to combine efforts to fight against this According to her, the “program will refer to the the environment are fundamental to xenophobic phenomena. Armenian Vice President of the National Assembly, Yazidi communities all over the world and reflect the Armenia’s sustainable tourism develop- touching on Nagorno Karabagh conflict, noted that Armenia, unlike problems they face in different countries of the ment strategy to deliver economic and Azerbaijan’s resolution, sees the problem exclusively by peaceful means, world. social well-being for the Armenian peo- based on the self-determination of nations, in the context of the OSCE Minsk ple. I am looking forward to working Group. In this context, Sharmazanov informed the guests that Turkey has with such a visionary organization like been blockading Armenia for 23 years, which is unacceptable in the 21st cen- IDeA to introduce Armenia to the tury. world,” said Christ. S A T U R D A Y , A P R I L 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Families of US Personnel Ordered to Leave International News

Parts of Turkey amid Security Concerns Armenian President WASHINGTON (Reuters) — The Turkish officials. Turkey. Beats FIDE Chief in Blitz Obama administration ordered the fam- Secretary of State John Kerry met “We understand this is disruptive to ilies of US military and diplomatic per- Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut our military families, but we must keep Chess sonnel to leave parts of southern Cavusoglu on Monday, and Turkish them safe and ensure the combat effec- MOSCOW (Armenpress) — Armenian President Turkey on Tuesday, March 29, and President Tayyip Erdogan is due to tiveness of our forces to support our Serge Sargisian defeated the International Chess warned US citizens against travel to the attend a Nuclear Security Summit strong ally Turkey in the fight against Federation (FIDE) President Kirsan Ilyumzhivov in region amid mounting security con- with other world leaders later in the terrorism,” General Philip M. an impromptu blitz chess game on March 15, Narek cerns. week. Kirby said Kerry had discussed Breedlove, commander of the US Nikoghosyan, assistant to the press secretary of the The Pentagon said 670 dependents the security announcement with European Command, said in the state- president of Republic of Armenia wrote on his of US military personnel would be Cavusoglu at their meeting on ment. Facebook page. affected by the order to depart areas of Monday. The departures do not indicate a deci- Radio of Armenia reported that the game took southern Turkey, including Incirlik air “The decision to do this wasn’t taken sion to permanently end US families’ place along the sidelines of the Candidates base, which is used heavily in the fight lightly. It was done after careful presence at military facilities in south- Tournament in Moscow. against Islamic State militants. thought and consideration, and inter- ern Turkey, the statement said. Sargisian is also the chairman of Armenia’s Chess The US State Department said a agency coordination,” Kirby told a daily The US State Department said it had Federation. small number of diplomatic families briefing at the State Department. ordered the departure of family mem- Armenia’s leading chess player, Levon Aronian, is would be affected but did not give num- “The timing of it was completely con- bers of government workers at the US participating at the tournament along with 8 other bers. The Pentagon said 100 military sidered independently of the Nuclear Consulate in Adana. Dependents of US acclaimed contenders. The winner of the tournament dependents in Ankara and Istanbul Security Summit and the visit here to government employees in Izmir and will compete for the World Champion’s title in New were not affected by the departure Washington by Turkish officials,” he Mugla provinces were also asked to York on November 11-30. orders because of security measures in added. leave. As the Chess Federation of Armenia is a sponsor of place there. The US military’s European The State Department issued a state- the event, the opening ceremony was dedicated to the State Department spokesman John Command said it had ordered the ment cautioning US citizens more 25th anniversary of Armenia’s independence. Kirby said the move had been under departure of families of personnel sta- broadly against traveling to southeast- consideration for several weeks, and tioned in Adana, home of Incirlik. It ern Turkey. was not the result of any specific said families of US military personnel It also warned of “increased threats One of Oldest Everest threat and had nothing to do with the also had been told to leave Izmir and from terrorist groups throughout visit to Washington this week by top Mugla provinces in southeastern Turkey.” Climbers Keeps Mountains in His Heart TBILISI (Public Radio of Armenia) — Only moun- Experts Volunteer to tains can be better than mountains, Tbilisi-based Armenian mountaineer Lev Sarkisov says. Save Armenian, Greek Writer Smpad Devletian Dies Sarkisov first discovered his love for mountains, when working at the Tbilisi Aviation Factory. A Architecture in Turkey DEVLETIAN, from page 1 group of mountain climbers there was organizing Devletian practiced law in Cyprus from 1956, but he was also a writer by periodic expeditions. In 1962 the group decided to ISTANBUL (Public Radio of Armenia) avocation. He chose law so that he could become a financially independent climb Kazbek, the highest peak of the Caucasus — Architects, art historians and engi- individual, and he was able to maintain an independent stance on Armenian Mountains. neers from Turkey, Greece and Armenia community and national affairs, though this always was consonant with Sarkisov later joined the mountaineer group of the have come together to review Turkey’s Armenian Democratic Liberal thinking. Armed Forces and worked as coach for a long time. Greek, Armenian and Jewish heritage. He played an active role in all aspects of Cypriot-Armenian life until 1986. Sarkisov is one of the few Armenians to have Speaking to Anadolu Agency, project Among other things, he was chairman for approximately one decade of the climbed Everest — the highest peak in the world. In coordinator, Cagla Parlak, said that they board of trustees of the Cypriot-Armenian schools. He remained a member of 1999 he was recognized by the Guinness book of aimed to reach an estimated 140 struc- the board of trustees of the Melkonian Educational Institute for 25 years, world records as the oldest mountaineer to conquer tures across Turkey which are at risk. until 1986. the highest peak. The group will document findings He participated in the second and eighth conventions of the Armenian He climbed Mount Ararat four times and took the from their visits to sites in seven regions Writers Union in Yerevan. Armenian tricolor to the peak. “Taking the across Turkey, including the central Throughout the Soviet Armenian era, he firmly remained a partisan of Armenian flag was a great risk. I could be arrested Anatolian province of Kayseri, the Armenian patriotism on the island. He was one of the leaders of Nicosia’s had the flag been found in my rucksack. I bought fab- southern region of Adana and Aegean Armenian Democratic Liberal (ADL) Vahan Tekeyan Chapter. ric of three colors at a store in Bayazet and sew the Izmir. Devletian, using the penname of Derounian, published the following works: flag at the hotel,” he said. Financed by the U.S. embassy in Minchev veratartz [Until Return] (Cyprus, 1946), Lse dghas [Listen, My Son] In 1999 Georgian President Edward Shevarnadze Ankara, the project took a year to come (Cyprus, 1948), Hametsogh aykapats [Lingering Dawn] (Beirut, 1959), awarded him with an Order of Honor. He’s also the together and ran parallel with the foun- Jarakayght u mshush [Ray and Fog] (Beirut, 1968) and Darakir dagher [Exile recipient of Snow Leopard award, a Soviet moun- dation of the association in 2014. Poetry] (Yerevan, 1981; and a second edition in Beirut, 1996). taineering award, given to climbers conquering all The project has publicized its first He contributed to the ADL press, and in particular to the Beirut newspa- five peaks of 7,000m and above located in the for- results by publishing a book called per and the literary journal Shirag. mer USSR. Kayseri: With Its Armenian and Greek He married Takouhi Bchakjian in 1942. She, too, was a graduate of Even at 70, Lev Sarkisov is ready to take the road Cultural Heritage in February. Melkonian. Their son Asadour Devletian was also a Melkonian graduate and an to mountains. The team conducted a risk assess- ADL leader. Takouhi worked as a teacher and one of the leaders of the Girl Scout ment of 18 Greek and Armenian build- movement in Cyprus who was helpful to Melkonian’s Girl Scout group. Takouhi ings in Kayseri such as the Surp in 2007 published her autobiography, Voghchoyn geank [Greetings, Life]. Radovan Kradzic Asdvadzadzin Church, Surp Stepanos (Translated from the Armenian) Church, Sakis Gümüyan School, the Sentenced to 40 Years School in Molu and the Agios Georgios THE HAGUE (Armenpress) — The former Bosnian Church. Serb leader Radovan Kradzic has been found guilty Kayseri, like many other parts of the Five Killed, 39 Injured in Istanbul Suicide of genocide over the 1995 massacre in Srebrenica country, was home to various minorities and sentenced to 40 years in jail, “Armenpress” until the beginning of the 20th century ISTANBUL (Hurriyet) — Five people recovery. according to the Guardian. The key verdict from a but their numbers fell after the were killed and 39 others were injured There was no immediate claim of United Nations tribunal in The Hague was delivered Armenian Genocide. in a suicide bomb attack on March 19 in responsibility for the attack on the long 18 months after a five-year trial of Kradzic, who was The Armenian population in the city central Istanbul, on the busy Istiklal pedestrian street lined with global accused of being one of the chief architects of atroc- was around 15,000 at the end of the Avenue in Taksim. shops and foreign consulates, a few hun- ities during the 1992-95 Balkans war. 19th century, the book states. Today All victims of the attack besides dred meters from an area where police The 70-year-old, who insisted his actions were only one Armenian lives there, accord- attacker were foreign nationals: Israeli buses are often parked. aimed at protecting Serbs during the Bosnian con- ing to local media. citizens Simha Siman Demri, Yonathan Two Turkish officials told Reuters evi- flict, was found guilty of 10 out of the 11 charges he The group uses an inventory pre- Suher, Avraham Godman and Iranian dence suggested the attacker was likely faced at the international criminal tribunal for the pared by the Istanbul-based Ali Reza Khalman. from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers former Yugoslavia (ICTY). Foundation, registration decisions by Turkish Health Minister Mehmet Party (PKK) or the Islamic State of Iraq Prosecutors said that Kradzic, as political leader local heritage Protection Boards and lit- Müezzinoglu said 39 people, including and the Levant (ISIL). and commander-in-chief of Serb forces in Bosnia, was erature reviews, Parlak said. 24 foreign nationals and a child, were Turkey’s Supreme Board of Radio responsible for some the worst acts of brutality dur- The Hrant Dink Foundation was injured, and seven of the victims in hos- and Television (RTÜK) imposed a tem- ing the war, including the 44-month deadly siege of founded in the name of a Turkish- pitals were in critical condition. porary ban on broadcasting pictures Sarajevo and the 1995 massacre of more than 8,000 Armenian journalist who was assassi- “We as a nation are unfortunately and video footage from the scene of the Bosnian men and boys in the Srebrenica enclave. nated by a Turkish nationalist in 2007. now face to face with a situation of attack. Kradzic’s other convictions were for five counts of The foundation worked for more than unlimited, immeasurable acts that are An ethnic Armenian was among crimes against humanity and four of war crimes, two years making an inventory to gath- inhumane, defy human values and are those injured. Oksan Khachanyan, 40, including taking UN peacekeepers hostage, deporting er information about Turkey’s cultural treacherous,” Müezzinoglu said. was at his workplace, when the bomb civilians, murder and attacks on combatants. heritage. Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet blast occurred in the city’s shopping According to the research, there are Davutoglu condemned the “inhuman” area, editor-in-chief of the Istanbul 4,600 Armenian, 4,100 Greek, 650 attack in a written statement, extending based Armenian Jamanak daily Ara Assyrian and 300 Jewish structures his condolences to the families of vic- Gochunyan told Public Radio of across the country. tims and wished the injured a speedy Armenia. 4 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community News

‘PAST AND PRESENT: Connecticut State Commemorating Women Affected By Genocide’ Capitol to Host

WATERTOWN — On Sunday, April 10, the Genocide Armenian Museum of America, along with Facing History and Ourselves, will present a Commemoration genocide commemoration program: ‘Past and Present: Commemorating Women Affected By HARTFORD, Conn. — The Armenian Genocide.’ This program will commemorate all Genocide Commemoration Committee of women, across history and around the world, Connecticut has announced that it will conduct who have been affected by the destruction of its annual program honoring the Holy Martyrs genocide. and the survivors of the Genocide on Saturday This year’s joint commemoration will feature April 23rd.The commemoration of the 101st a lecture by Anna Aleksanyan, of Clark anniversary of this tragic event will take place University, and survivor testimonies from at the Connecticut State Legislature in the Bosnian genocide survivor Edina Skaljic and magnificent Hall of the House of Rwandan genocide survivor Chantal Kayitesi. Representatives at 11:30 a.m. and will be pre- The program will also feature musical perfor- ceded by the raising of the Armenian flag over mances by violinist Armen Ghazaryan and the Capitol building at 11 a.m. pianist Levon Hovsepian, as well as a special The keynote speaker will be Shant blended poetic musical piece with poetry writ- Mardirossian, chairman emeritus and a mem- ten and performed by Frank Cunningham. ber of the board of the Near East Foundation. To coincide with the program, there will also Mardirossian will make a presentation on the be a number of guest exhibitions created and unprecedented humanitarian role played by the inspired by women who have experienced geno- then Near East Relief in connection with the cide. Exhibits will include Kindling Sandy Genocide. Smith-Garcés, Pax Rwanda: Embroideries of the NEF began in 1915 when a group of Women of Savane Rutongo-Kabuye curated by American political, business and philanthropic Juliana Meehan and Rutongo Embroideries, and leaders came together to provide critical relief Every Stitch A Memory by Netty Vanderpol. to those affected by the Armenian Genocide. All of these guest exhibitions, along with the The organization mobilized thousands of Museum’s own Stitching To Survive and Americans to work toward its humanitarian Traveling Genocide exhibits, will be available for goals and raised over $116 million dollars for viewing on the 3rd Floor of ALMA in the Adele direct relief. As the first mass American non- & Haig Der Manuelian and Terjenian-Thomas governmental movement to send humanitarian Galleries. aid overseas, NEF has since defined the Refreshments will be served after the formal American tradition of international relief and program and this event is free and open to the development. public. From 1915 to 1930, Near East Relief saved The keynote speaker, Anna Aleksanyan, is a the lives of over a million people. It built 40 Rep. Adam Schiff presents the plaque to Dr. Frieda Jordan. Harry and Ovsanna Chitjian Fellow and doctor- hospitals and cared for and educated 132,000 al student in Armenian Genocide Studies at the orphans in Near East Relief orphanages. Strassler Center for Holocaust and Genocide Based in Studies. Her research delves into physical and Syracuse, NY, the non-physical destructive techniques used Near East against women during the Armenian Genocide. Bone Marrow Registry Foundation is a Sandy Smith-Garcés’ Kindling exhibit was non-profit inter- inspired by the plight of Darfuri women, driven Founder Honored by Schiff national develop- from their homes and living in refugee camps in ment organiza- eastern Chad. Smith-Garcés was struck by the tion that works to divide between the lives of mothers in her own As 28th Congressional build inclusive, community and the lives of mothers working to prosperous and provide for their families in the camps, where sustainable soci- basic needs are scarce. Venturing outside the District Woman of the Year eties in the camps in search of kindling to cook meals often Middle East and ends in rape and other forms of violence. The LOS ANGELES — On March 15, Dr. Frieda Jordan, president of the Africa by provid- Shant Mardirossian search for firewood takes on new meaning, as Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry, was honored in the US Congress by ing vulnerable essential for survival as the quest for fire, food being named the 28th Congressional District Woman of the Year. The honor and disenfran- and shelter from the elements since time was bestowed on Jordan by Rep. Adam Schiff (D), who represents California’s chised people with skills, training and immemorial. 28th Congressional District, in a speech he delivered on the floor of the House resources to fully engage and prosper in their The Pax Rwanda Embroideries are a traveling of Representatives. Schiff’s tribute was entered into the Congressional Record. own communities and economies. NEF’s head- exhibit owned and curated by Juliana Meehan, a Three days later, Schiff personally presented Jordan with a plaque featuring quarters consist of 15 people who oversee oper- New Jersey educator who supports the Savane the text of his tribute to her, at a luncheon held in Echo Park. During the ations across nine countries, which include Rutongo-Kabuye embroidery workshop. This event, which was organized on the occasion of Women’s History Month, Schiff Armenia, Egypt, Jordon, Lebanon, Mali, workshop was created by a group of Rwandan honored a group of outstanding women, including Jordan, from communities Morocco, the West Bank, Senegal and Sudan, women living in the aftermath of the 1994 in the 28th Congressional District. where it employs 170 people in the field. Genocide against the Tutsis. They came from “I rise today in honor of Women’s History Month,” Schiff said in his NEF recently celebrated its Centennial and both sides of the conflict, yet they put events of remarks at the House of Representatives on March 15. “Each year, we pay spe- continues to lead programs that strengthen the past behind them to work together in the cial tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation’s women. resilience and create economic opportunity hope that their children would have a better It is an honor to pay homage to outstanding women who are making a differ- through small business creation, agricultural future. ence in my Congressional District. I would like to recognize a remarkable development, peace building, and civic engage- Savane Rutongo-Kabuye and Christiane woman, Dr. Frieda Jordan, of Glendale, Calif.” ment, working together with community lead- Rwagatare, the founder and creative director of Jordan said, “I am absolutely humbled by this prestigious honor. I convey ers and local partners. the workshop, have won awards for their work my deep gratitude to Congressman Adam Schiff, who is an extraordinary, long- Mardirossian is a partner and the chief oper- in Rwanda, and their embroideries are displayed time supporter and advocate of the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry, ating officer at Kohlberg & Company, LLC, a in the national Rwesero Art Museum at Nyanza. as well as the House of Representatives as a whole, for selecting me as the leading US middle-market private equity firm. The workshop is one of many collectives of arti- 28th Congressional District Woman of the Year.” He is a graduate of the Lubin School of sans that reflect a larger phenomenon taking Jordan is the director of DNA Molecular Typing at Foundation Laboratory Business at Pace University and holds a B.B.A. place all over Rwanda: reconstruction, reconcil- in Los Angeles. She is also a laboratory inspector with the European in Public Accounting and an M.B.A. with dual iation and the desire for peace. Federation for Immunogenetics, representing the Republic of Armenia. Prior concentration in Investment Management and Netty Vanderpol is a Holocaust survivor from to her work at Foundation Laboratory, she was associate director of the Strategic Management. Holland and was a classmate of Anne Frank in Human Leukocyte Antigen and Immunogenetics Laboratory at Cedars-Sinai Also participating in the presentation will be Amsterdam. Forty years after she escaped with Medical Center in Los Angeles. Molly Sullivan, Esq, director and curator of the her family from Theresienstadt concentration Jordan is an active member and participant of various medical organiza- Near East Relief Historical Society. camp in what is now the Czech Republic, Netty tions, including the World Marrow Donor Association, the National Marrow A number of Connecticut governmental, reli- took up the art of needlepoint. She has used Donor Program, the European Federation for Immunogenetics, and the gious and civic leaders are expected to be in this artform as the vehicle to tell the story of Armenian Medical Association. Jordan has made presentations at numerous attendance. how she and her family survived the Holocaust. conferences and workshops in the United States and around the world. Following the ceremonies, there will be a Armenian Museum of America is located at reception and an opportunity to view NEF 65 Main St. materials S A T U R D A Y , A P R I L 2 , 2 0 1 6 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 5 COMMUNITY NEWS Members of Congress Request Assistance for Armenia, Nagorno Karabagh

WASHINGTON — This past week, 33 ing with Congressional leaders to promote the of the Karabagh conflict, yet the letter points of native inhabitants,” said United Nations High Members of Congress sent a letter to the important issues outlined in the letter,” out that Karabagh government officials have Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny been excluded from the peace process since Representative in Armenia Christoph Bierwirth. Foreign Operations, and Related Programs said. “We live in a dangerous time, as ISIS com- 1998. “Nagorno Karabagh should, in the inter- The letter suggests allocating international Chairwoman Kay Granger (R-TX) and Ranking mits genocide against Christians and other ests of peace and basic fairness, be permitted to and US aid to Armenia and “supporting the Member Nita Lowey (D-NY) in support of con- minorities, millions of people have become dis- fully participate in all talks regarding its future. efforts to regional states to resettle those flee- tinued US assistance in the Fiscal Year (FY) placed by violence and civil war, and Azerbaijan The best and most sustainable path to peace ing from Syria.” The Appropriations 2017 budget for the Republics of Armenia and threatens a new war in the South Caucasus requires direct engagement with the people and Subcommittee suggests to putting in place Nagorno Karabagh, the Samtskhe-Javakheti with its repeated cease-fire violations. With the government of Nagorno Karabagh, whose fate “policies and programs to close gaps in the dis- region of Georgia, and at-risk minorities in the proposed changes to the FY 2017 and future are the subject of ongoing talks and tribution of need-based aid to at-risk minority Middle East. “Continued US support in the Appropriations Budget, the Administration has whose security will rest on the outcome of populations in Syria, including Armenians.” region is critically important,” the letter read. the opportunity to help resolve some of these these negotiations,” the letter reads. The letter supporting increased assistance to Members of Congress requested at least $5 critical concerns.” Last week, Secretary of State John Kerry con- Armenia and Nagorno Karabagh for FY 2017 million for humanitarian and development pro- The letter calls for a stronger US stance firmed that the crimes committed by ISIS con- was signed by Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ); Robert grams in Nagorno Karabagh, appropriating no regarding Azerbaijan’s increasing number of stitute genocide against Yazidis, Christians and Dold (R-IL); Gus Bilirakis (R-FL); Tony Cárdenas less than $40 million in overall economic aid hostile acts against Armenia and Nagorno other religious minorities, including Armenians. (D-CA); David Cicilline (D-RI); Judy Chu (D-CA); (including Economic Support Fund, Karabagh. Earlier this month, the Obama Armenia does not have adequate resources to Katherine Clark (D-MA); Mike Coffman (R-CO); International Narcotics Control and Law Administration released its budget for the continue helping refugees escaping from geno- Jim Costa (D-CA); Joseph Crowley (D-NY); Anna Enforcement, and Global Health Programs) for upcoming year, maintaining a military parity cide. The Administration’s proposed budget allo- Eshoo (D-CA); Chaka Fattah (D-PA); James Armenia, suspending all military aid to between Armenia and Azerbaijan at $1 million cated nearly $3 billion for migration and refugee Langevin (D-RI); Barbara Lee (D-CA); Daniel Azerbaijan, allocating at least 10 percent of aid for Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and assistance, some of which could go towards Lipinski (D-IL); Zoe Lofgren (D-CA); Stephen given to Georgia towards funding sustainable $600,000 for International Military Education Armenia’s resettlement efforts. Armenia accept- Lynch (D-MA); Carolyn Maloney (D-NY); James job-creation programs in Samtskhe-Javakheti, and Training (IMET), a decrease from the pre- ed the third largest amount of refugees in McGovern (D-MA); Grace Napolitano (D-CA); enhancing Section 907 of the Freedom vious year. The letter recommends a suspension Europe, sheltering nearly 20,000 displaced Collin Peterson (D-MN); Jared Polis (D-CO); Support Act, and reinstating Karabagh in the of US military aid to Azerbaijan “until its gov- Syrians. Armenia hosts six Syrian refugees per Mike Quigley (D-IL); Charles Rangel (D-NY); Organization for Security and Co-operation in ernment ceases cross-border attacks, ends its 1,000 nationals - a ratio much higher than many Linda Sanchez (D-CA); Loretta Sanchez (D-CA); Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group peace process as threat of renewed war, and agrees to a settle- European countries or the US, especially note- John Sarbanes (D-MD); Jan Schakowsky (D-IL); a full negotiating partner. ment of regional conflicts through peaceful worthy given the country’s economic circum- Adam Schiff (D-CA); Brad Sherman (D-CA); “The Assembly applauds the initiative sup- means.” Members of Congress are also request- stance, reports theArmenian Agenda. Jackie Speier (D-CA); Dina Titus (D-NV); and ported by over 30 Members of Congress and ing supplemental language to strengthen “As a host country, Armenia has been Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). their efforts to ensure the well-being of Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act. absolutely exemplary in terms of the ratio of wel- Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly Armenia and Artsakh. I look forward to work- US priority focuses on a peaceful settlement comed Syrian-Armenian refugees to the number of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

Dr. Lerna Ekmekcioglu to Present on ‘Survivors Into Minorities: Armenians In Post-Genocide Turkey’ FRESNO — Dr. Lerna Ekmekcioglu will give a presentation on “Survivors into Minorities: Armenians in Post-Genocide Turkey” at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 18, in the University Business Center, Alice Peters Auditorium, Room 191, Fresno State campus. The talk follows the trajectories of the sur- vivors of the 1915 Armenian Genocide who remained inside Turkish borders after the sign- ing of the 1918 Mudros Armistice (and during the Allied occupation years of Istanbul) and after the 1923 establishment of the new coun- try as the Turkish Republic. How did the Kemalist state treat the remaining Armenians? What were Armenians’ responses to the new (but also old) Turkish regime? Ekmekcioglu will discuss multiple strategies Armenians-including feminist Armenians-improvised in order to cohabit with unapologetic perpetrators and sur- vive the new Turkey. Ekmekcioglu is McMillan-Stewart Associate Professor of History at Massachusetts Institute of Technology where she is also affiliated with In Armenia and Karabagh the Women and Gender Studies Program. She specializes on Turkish and Armenian lands in the beginning of the 20th century and the his- tory of Armenian feminism. In 2006 she co-edit- ed a volume in Turkish about the first five Armenian feminists of the Ottoman Empire and Sponsor A SinceTeacher its inception in 2001, Turkish Republic. Her most recent book, TCA’s Sponsor a Teacher Recovering Armenia: The Limits of Belonging in Post-Genocide Turkey, came out from program has raised Stanford University Press in early 2016. over $563,000 and The lecture is free and open to the public. reached out to 5,627 teachers and school workers in 16th AnniversaryArmenia & Karabagh.

Dr. Lerna Ekmekcioglu 6 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Armenian Genocide Museum Mobile-Friendly Website Launched

WASHINGTON — The Armenian Genocide The enormity of the human losses during the Genocide in the context of a century and more Genocide Museum-Institute, and Armenian Museum of America (AGMA) announces that its Armenian Genocide is set against this back- of mass atrocities around the world and exam- Studies Program at the California State online museum (www.armeniangenocidemuse- ground to stress the relationship that once exist- ines the role of American leadership in respond- University in Fresno. They augmented the um.org) is fully accessible on mobile devices ed between the Armenian people and their now ing to the problem of genocide. resources available from the United States such as tablets and smart phones. decimated homeland. It reveals the extent to The introductory video, as well as the online National Archives, the , the The interactive site, which was launched in which the places once associated with worship exhibits, feature the oral testimony of survivors Republic of Armenia National Archives, and April 2015, invites visitors to explore the story and celebration, with commerce and education, supported with pictorial and other documen- Armenian General Benevolent Union’s of the Armenian people and its fateful experi- and the historical memory of significant events tary evidence. The title of the video, “Coming to Nubarian Library, among others. AGMA also ence in 1915. Initially available only for laptop from the time of the Armenian monarchies, have Terms: The Legacy of the Armenian Genocide,” extends special thanks to film makers Carla and desktop computer viewing, the online been erased from the face of the earth. echoes the expression that became the interna- Garapedian and Ted Bogosian, as well as histo- museum is now optimized for mobile devices. By underlining with resonant content the his- tional theme of the centennial as governments rian and geographer Dr. Robert Hewsen. Presenting the Armenian Genocide from mul- toric identity of the Armenian people, their art and world leaders joined Armenians around the AGMA also thanks again with particular tiple perspectives, the online museum high- and culture, and their perseverance in the face world on calling upon Turkey to face up to the appreciation the renowned photographer Hrair lights the role and extent of American involve- of adversity, the online museum also reinforces evidence. Hawk Khatcherian whose commitment to doc- ment in denouncing the atrocities committed the universal message of our common humani- The testimony of other significant figures umenting the cultural and religious heritage of against the Armenian people during World War ty and collective responsibility, and explains underscores the world’s reaction and America’s Armenians across their historic homeland and I and in delivering the humanitarian aid that why the story of the Armenians and other peo- response to the Armenian Genocide with obser- the diaspora is on display through the magnifi- rescued the remaining survivors from further ples who have suffered similar fates must be vations by Theodore Roosevelt, Major General cent photographs he shared with AGMA and mistreatment. told. James Harbord, Ambassador Henry which form such a central part of the visual The story begins with an exploration of the The museum is also dedicated to educating Morgenthau, Consul Jesse Jackson, subsequent experience of visiting the online museum. rich culture of the Armenian people created the public about the continuing consequences remembrance day statements issued by sitting Joining Khatcherian in making the online over millennia to underscore the gravity of the of the Armenian Genocide. Viewers will learn presidents Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, George museum an exceptional experience is the soul- loss of an entire civilization with the destruc- how the international community’s failure to W. Bush, and Barack Obama, supplemented by ful musicianship of Gevorg Dabaghyan, envelop- tion of historic Armenia. condemn the genocide and hold the perpetra- the striking invocations made by Pope Francis ing viewers with haunting melodies from the This theme has been expanded upon with the tors accountable made the Armenian Genocide during the April 2015 commemorative obser- mountains of Armenia. He continues the preliminary installation of the online museum’s a prototype for later crimes against humanity, vance at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. unique tradition of composing and playing galleries that feature additional information including the Holocaust, Cambodia, Rwanda, The online museum also confronts the music on the national instrument of Armenia, about the richness and creativity of Armenian Darfur, and most recently the Syriac, Armenian, Turkish government’s denial policy by recalling the duduk, made from the native apricot tree. civilization. They cover such topics as Yezidi and other minority communities subject- the late Hrant Dink’s heroic role in exploring The online museum was primarily made pos- Armenia’s ancient history, its spectacular archi- ed to genocide by the Islamic State noted in the avenues for creating a common ground for sible by the contribution of the Estate of Agnes tectural heritage, the variety of arts created resolution adopted this March 14 by the U.S. understanding. Dink was assassinated in 2007. Kazanjian. Donors to AGMA, Anoush across the centuries, as well as the tragic record House of Representatives. In the spirit of cooperation to pay due respect Mathevosian, Hirair & Anna Hovnanian of their destruction during and since the years An educational video introducing the entire to the victims and survivors of the Armenian Foundation, Edele Hovnanian, Dr. Sarkis of the Armenian Genocide. online museum explains the Armenian Genocide, many individuals and organizations Kechejian, Dr. Nishan Kechejian, the Alice joined with AGMA in supporting the creation of Ohanessian Irrevocable Trust, Julie Kulhanjian the online museum and its many components. Strauch, Noubar Tcheurekjian, and the Among them are the Armenian Film Trustees of the Armenian Assembly of America, Assembly Requests $15 Million to Foundation, Zoryan Institute, Armenian are also gratefully acknowledged. Armenia for Refugees Forced to Flee Genocide by ISIS F UNERAL H OME WASHINGTON — This past week, the constitute genocide against Christians and Giragosian Armenian Assembly of America Executive minorities, including Armenians. In light of James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Director Bryan Ardouny submitted testimo- this, ”the Assembly also urge[d] enhanced Mark J. Giragosian Funeral Counselors ny to the House Appropriations assistance to Christian and other minority Subcommittee on State, Foreign communities at risk in the Middle East, 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 Operations, and Related Programs where with a particular focus of concern regard- www.giragosianfuneralhome.com he outlined nine key policy priorities for the ing the continued unrest in Syria, particu- Armenian American community in Fiscal larly the battleground city of Aleppo where Year (FY) 2017. Armenian churches and other institutions Given Azerbaijan’s blatant ceasefire viola- have come under attack.” tions, the Assembly called upon the United The Administration’s proposed budget Nardolillo Funeral Home States to “directly condemn such actions envisions nearly $3 billion for migration and avoid engaging in false equivalency and refugee assistance. The Assembly rec- Est. 1906 between the aggressor and those defending ommended that $15 million be allocated for John K. Najarian, Jr. themselves.” The Assembly urged that Armenia, which according to The Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act Economist has taken on the third largest Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director be fully enforced. “Azerbaijan’s violations number of refugees in Europe as a propor- 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 skyrocketed to over 30,000 in 2015, and tion of its population. “As a host country, include the inexplicable targeting of a Armenia has been absolutely exemplary in 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 kindergarten in Armenia’s Tavush border terms of the ratio of welcomed Syrian- www.nardolillo.com region and other civilian areas, not to men- Armenian refugees to the number of native tion the continual acts of vandalism, such inhabitants,” said United Nations High as destroying centuries-old Armenian ceme- Commissioner on Refugees (UNHCR) teries noted for their historic monuments,” Representative in Armenia Christoph Telephone (617) 924-7400 Ardouny points out in his testimony. In Bierwirth. Armenia hosts six Syrian addition, “the Assembly urges the cessation refugees per 1,000 nationals - a ratio much of US military assistance to Azerbaijan. higher than many European countries or Aram Bedrosian Azerbaijan does not need it, and America the US, an especially noteworthy effort cannot afford it.” given the country’s economic circumstance. Funeral Home, Inc. The Assembly testimony also laid out Earlier this week, Armenian Caucus Co- eight additional policy goals and specifical- Chairs, Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 ly asks for: not less than $40 million in US (D-NJ) and Robert Dold (R-IL), spearheaded assistance to Armenia; not less than $5 mil- anAssembly-backed letter to the MARION BEDROSIAN lion to Nagorno Karabagh, especially for Subcommittee regarding assistance to 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN the Lady Cox Rehabilitation Center; Armenia and Karabagh. The letter, which WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN advancing the Nagorno Karabagh peace was signed by 33 US Representatives, out- process; support to Christian minorities at lined key priorities regarding US- risk in the Middle East; US military assis- Armenia/US-Karabagh relations. tance to Armenia; assistance to the In addition to the testimony, the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia; Assembly relayed a message of condolence regional energy security; and reaffirmation for the recent attacks in Brussels. “The of the US record on the Armenian Armenian Assembly stands in solidarity Genocide. with the people of Belgium and expresses The destruction of Armenian heritage in its deepest sympathies to the victims and the region by Azerbaijan and the armed vio- families of the latest terrorist attacks, which lations of the ceasefire parallel the crimes serves as a painful reminder of all those lost committed by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, which in other senseless acts of terror,” Ardouny Secretary of State John Kerry confirmed stated. S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School Celebrates 30th Anniversary

WATERTOWN — A crowd of about 450 bers of the school board and committees, the with her warmth, her distinctive accents and friends and supporters of St. Stephen’s St. Stephen’s Church pastor, Rev. Antranig her emotionally-charged songs. Pianist Armenian Elementary School (SSAES) gath- Baljian and its Board of Trustees, as well as, Jasmine Atabekyan accompanied her and ered on March 12 at the Sorenson Center for to the administrative and teaching staff. She won the audience’s acclaim after performing the Arts at Babson College in Wellesley to thanked the 30th Anniversary Committee, a breathtaking rendition of Khachaturian’s celebrate the school’s 30th anniversary. The headed by Sarkis Ourfalian, for their work to Sabre Dance. celebration, presided over by Archbishop make this a memorable event. She also The event concluded with a lavish dessert Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate of Eastern United expressed her gratitude to the local reception. States, raised approximately $150,000 to sup- Armenian organizations, as well as, to past St. Stephen’s is the only Armenian day port the school’s endowment fund. and present donors and benefactors of the school to be fully accredited by the The outpouring of love and support school for their generosity and continued Association of Independent Schools in New expressed for the school was a testament to support. England (AISNE), the accrediting body for the role that this educational institution In her speech, Boyamian noted, “From the independent elementary schools. The holds in the Armenian community of Greater Boston. The anniversary celebration started with a cocktail reception which gave parents, alum- ni and friends the opportunity to mingle and reconnect. Then, the attendees were invited into the auditorium where the program was

Tamar Kanarian

introduced by master of ceremonies and SSAES Alum Tamar Kanarian (Class of 1994), who welcomed everyone and reflected Some of the members of the organizing committee on her own journey at the school. The program began with an invocation by early days of the School, we were aware of Choloyan, followed by a touching testimonial the challenge facing us. In a region that is from Alum Ani Nalbandian Attamian (Class home to some of the best educational insti- of 1992), who had flown from London for the tutions in the nation, an Armenian school occasion. would have to offer an excellent education in In her remarks, the school’s principal of 28 order to thrive and meet the demands of a Principal Houry Boyamian years, Houry Boyamian, paid tribute to the modern American society, all the while pre- school founders, to past and present mem- serving and maintaining our Armenian cul- ture and heritage. “Over the past 30 years, we have succeed- ed in rising to the challenge, by providing a Commemorate the 101st Anniversary competitive educational curriculum with a strong foundation in and of the Armenian Genocide culture, and by instilling a deep sense of iden- tity into hundreds of Armenian American stu- dents.” at the Massachusetts State House Boyamian concluded by saying, “We have reached our 30th anniversary together and together, with your faith, your commitment and your support we shall continue our jour- ney ahead, to a future that is brimming with promise and potential. So tonight, I invite you all to join me in ensuring a bright future St. Stephen’s graduates with Principal Boyamian for many more generations of proud Armenians to come”. Following the principal’s address, Ourfalian school’s accreditation in 2003 by the took the stage to recognize major donors and Association of Independent Schools in New contributors to the event. “You are all part of England confirmed that the School holds the SSAES family and each one of you holds itself to high standards and is in compliance the key to its future,” he said. with the best practices of AISNE’s accredita- The second part of the program featured tion protocols. singer Alla Levonyan from Armenia who To learn more about SSAES, visit starts at 10:30 am transported the guests back to the homeland www.ssaes.org. 12 noon reception in the Great Hall

With a proclamation from the Governor of Massachusetts Prominent keynote speaker Massachusetts officials Joint Senate/House Resolution recipients And musical program

April 22, 2016 Details forthcoming.

Organized by the State House Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee, Boston

Houry Boyamian with several members of the Mardiros family 8 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS

All those gathered, including President Serge Sargisian, posed for a group picture. President Sargisian Arrives in Boston

VISIT, from page 1 their efforts. He also stressed that Armenia needs the dias- The president arrived to applause from those assembled, pora and the diaspora, as well, needs Armenia. including several members of the Knights of Vartan, members Finally, Sargisian, rising, accepted a gift presented to him of the ADL from the United States and Canada, and their by TCA Executive Director Aram Arkun and Armenian families, as well as several other activists. Mirror-Spectator Editor Alin Gregorian, a theological book Representing the ADL were Ara Balian of Montreal, Dr. published in (Istanbul) in 1864. In return, he Nubar Berberian of Waltham, Mass., Dr. Arshavir Gundjian gave a recording released by the Museum in from Montreal, Kevork Marashlian of Washington, D.C., Armenia, as well as engraved medals. Vartan Nazerian of Los Angeles, Apet Torosian of Cambridge, Toasts were made with traditional Armenian Dvin brandy, Mass. And Hagop Vartivarian from New Jersey, prompting the president to joke that “it was just like Armenia.” After the president and his entourage were seated, That same night, he made visits to several other local Gundjian kicked off the welcome, toasting the president and Armenian institutions, including St. Stephen’s Armenian telling him about the ADL and its partisans in the US and Church in Watertown, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Canada, as well as about the history of the party’s press in Greater Boston, in Cambridge, as well as the Armenian

Dr. Arshavir Gundjian, President Serge Sargisian and Archbishop Khajag Barsamian

Hagop Vartivarian and Serge Sargisian

A group picture at the Baikar building, with the president, staff, dignitaries and guests the US and Canada. Museum of America and the Building, both in Marashlian then spoke about the Mirror-Spectator as well Watertown. as the cultural activities of Tekeyan. He also presented During his visit, the president is visiting several local Donald Tellalian, the architect of the Armenian Heritage offices and parties, including the State House, where he is Park, including its abstract sculpture, which President due to meet with Gov. Charlie Baker, and the Armenian Sargisian was scheduled to visit the following day. Heritage Park, as well as a talk and meeting at the Vartivarian spoke about the heritage of the ADL in the US Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard. and its continued efforts in planting the seeds of the Aram Arkun said, “I am very grateful for the support pro- Armenian spirit among the youth, throughout its history. He vided by Apet Torosian in facilitating the reception at the said the ADL was the pioneer in the US in efforts for creat- Baikar building.” ing structures that would allow the perpetuation of Armenian identity and culture aboard, as well as to pursue the just (All photos, with three exceptions, are by Jirair Hovsepian. From left, Kevork Marashlian, Dr. Arshavir Gundjian, Vartan cause of the Armenians. Text is by Alin K. Gregorian. Further coverage of the presi- Nazerian, Ara Balian, Dr. Nubar Berberian and Hagop Sargisian thanked those assembled and expressed his dent’s various stops will be in next week’s paper.) Vartivarian respect for all the traditional Armenian political parties and S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS

From left, Vartan Nazerian, Dr. Nubar Berberian, Dr. Arshavir Gundjian, President Serge Sargisian, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Hagop Vartivarian and Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan and Chief of Staff

Several young persons were present during the president’s visit to the Baikar Building.

From left, Dr. Nubar Berberian, Dr. Arshavir Gundjian and President Serge Sargisian

Editor Alin K. Gregorian and Aram Arkun at Mirror-Spectator the program Dr. Arshavir Gundjian proposuing a toast to President Serge Sargisian Hagop Vartivarian

Members of the Knights of Vartan were present, from left, Aram Belorian, Sarkis Antreassian, at center Antranik Mardiros, and at Apet Torosian at left right Nelson Stepanian Kevork Marashlian and Hagop Vartivarian Patil Mardiros and Raffi Arkun

President Serge Sargisian at Holy Trinity Armenian Church in President Serge Sargisian with Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan President Serge Sargisian at the Armenian Museum of Cambridge and Fr. Antranik Baljian at St. Stephen’s Armenian Church. America 10 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Arts & Living

Arzruni Concert on Bergen Community April 5 to Benefit College Hosts Old Age Home in Staged Reading of Vanadzor, Armenia ‘Women of Ararat’

By Florence Avakian By Ruth Bedevian

NEW YORK — A special benefit concert by PARAMUS, N.J. — From the Republic of acclaimed pianist Sahan Arzruni to benefit the Armenia, to several venues in New England, Vanadzor Old Age Home in Armenia, will take including part of the New Play Series at place on Tuesday, April 5, at Merkin Concert Wellesley College (2014-15 Season), “Women Hall, starting at 7:30 p.m. The Home located in of Ararat” now comes to New Jersey. Bergen Armenia’s third largest city, Vanadzor has been Community College will sponsor a staged read- established in 2001 by the Kevork and Sirvart ing of the play on Friday, April 22 at 7 p.m. Karamanuk Charitable Fund, and is adminis- Judith Boyajian, playwright, draws upon the tered by the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR). experiences of her grandmothers who witnessed Arzruni explained that some 60 residents live the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide. in the home which has a staff of 27, including One hundred years ago, the Genocide rivet- full-time nurses and a doctor. In addition, every ed the American public. News of the atrocities From left, Tom Vartabedian and E. Philip Brown Saturday, the home sees to the feeding, bathing flooded the mainstream media in Europe and and clean clothes for about 30 homeless per- America and evoked a great outpouring of sons. humanitarian aid. As decades ensued, the per- To make the Old Age Home more visible, sev- sistent denial of the Genocide by the Turkish eral times a year, young people visit and inter- Book Talk on government created an even greater wound act with the residents, cleaning and playing among Armenians chess, tavloo and other games. In addition, the worldwide who residents partake of other activities, including Merrimack Valley at had survived in fishing, and tending an organic vegetable gar- various safe den and bee hives which provide delicious havens abroad, greens and honey to their palatable meals. including the US. Though the Karamanuk Charitable Fund has Armenian Museum Boyajian states, been the backbone of the home, more funds are “Because the needed to continue its quality of care. In light WATERTOWN — The Armenian Museum of America will present a book-signing script emphasizes of this, the pianist has been performing major and presentation by Haverhill authors E. Philip Brown and Tom Vartabedian on the voices and benefit concerts during the past few months at their new book titled The Armenians of the Merrimack Valley. experiences of the Armenian Embassy in Washington, DC, as The presentation will include images of Armenians covering four generations women who expe- well as in Boca Raton and Philadelphia, with all of life along the North Shore of Boston, specifically Merrimack Valley rienced both vio- five Armenian churches joining together. where Armenian immigrants settled prior to the 19th century. lence and loss, On April 5, at Merkin Hall, the concert will Judith Boyajian The book, published by Arcadia, details life in eight specific areas including busi- including its feature New York and world premieres, as well ness, culture, education, today’s youth, military, athletics, church and communi- effects on subse- as several works by Armenian composers, ty and immigrant life. quent generations — it offers an excellent vehi- Komitas, and Aram “When one thinks of the Merrimack Valley, shoe shops and mills come to mind,” cle for inter-generational community discus- Khachaturian. said Vartabedian. “For that reason, it was a hotbed for Armenian refugees following sions... And because it focuses on a love story An extraordinary surprise will be 11-year old World War I. This could be any community that opened its doors to the Promised between a young Armenian woman and a violinist Simon Hagopian, whom Arzruni Land. Through it all came a population that remained tenacious to the overall suc- young Turkish man (both musicians) who each describes as a “wunderkind” with whom he has cess of America.” discover important facts about their respective worked. They will present Khachaturian’s The program is being co-sponsored by Project SAVE Armenian Photograph pasts, the play reinforces a message of hope Chant-Poeme, written in honor of Armenia’s Archives and takes place about Armenians and Turks working together troubadours. Saturday, April 2, beginning at to challenge Armenian Genocide denial…” Also performing will be accomplished percus- 2 p.m. at 65 Main St., followed “Women of Ararat” illuminates the ways in sionist Adam Rosenblatt who goes to Armenia by light refreshments. It is free which the descendants of the perpetrators rec- every year, and works with FAR. He will per- and open to the public. oncile their innocence with the acts of their form with Arzruni, the New York premiere of Brown is currently a social ancestors. In recent years Turkish scholars, his- Alan Hovhaness’ Invocations to Vahakn, five studies teacher at Haverhill torians, editors, journalists, film makers, pieces for percussion and piano, “dedicated to High School and teaches activists have discovered their own nation’s the god of fire in Armenian mythology.” World History in Haverhill. He secreted past and have come forth with books, Arzruni will also present the New York pre- received his BA in Political articles, statements researching and docu- miere of Hovhaness’ complete Yenovk cycle, Science at the University menting the Ottoman government’s premedi- composed in homage of Armenian singer of Massachusetts, a MS in tated and thoroughly executed act of genocide. Yenovk der Hagopian who introduced Applied Management at According to Koray Caliskan, a professor at Hovhaness to Armenian music. Lesley University and an MA Bogazici University in Istanbul, whose elemen- Hovhaness was a disciple of Komitas during in Public History through tary and secondary education made no men- his 1940s Armenian period, Arzruni explains. American Public University. tion of the massacres said that it was only dur- “He has internalized Komitas’ music, and has He is a member of ing his university years that he discovered created an aesthetic approach which is very the Haverhill Historical “curious tensions about what happened in our close to Komitas. Hovhaness’ pieces are as Commission and author of historical past.” He referred to this issue as spare as those of Komitas. They happen. One two other books on local his- “the unbearable silence.” can imagine the piece going in various direc- tory. The office of Peace Justice and tions. It’s not framed, but instead, left to one’s He was moved by Reconciliation (PJR) of Bergen Community imagination.” Armenian genocidal history College was founded in 2009 with a mission to Also on the program is Kara-Mourza’s and collaborated “examine issues of war, genocide and social jus- Potpourri, a collection of Armenian urban folk with Vartabedian for a the- tice, and to develop skills in conflict resolution songs, which was published in 1872 in Tbilisi sis. through interdisciplinary study.” It has where the composer primarily worked. “Kara- “Despite the genocide, Armenians have contributed immensely to world civiliza- embraced the message of “Women of Ararat” Mourza expertly weaves into the melody tion,” said Brown. “Greater Merrimack Valley has shared in that success with many and encourages the public to attend. Armenia’s national anthem, Mer Hayrenik, fine accomplishments.” Bunny Mateosian, director, is a 30-year mem- ascribed to Parsegh Ganachian, but clearly, Vartabedian is a veteran reporter and photographer, having spent 50 years with ber of the Bergen County Players of Oradell, NJ. Kara-Mourza used it much earlier,” notes the Haverhill Gazette, winning numerous awards from United Press International, She is an actress, director, costume designer. Arzruni, and points out that he was the first Associated Press and New England Press Association. He has been a columnist with The college offers refreshment during intermis- composer to write for piano from Eastern the Armenian Weekly since 1970 and has served the past seven years on the sion. Armenia, and the first conductor to bring Project SAVE Board of Directors. Over the past decade, he has provided educa- Admission is free and RSVP is necessary to female and male singers together in a chorus. tional discussions throughout the schools of Massachusetts as a member of the Tom LaPointe at 201-493-8977 since open seat- Also on the program will be Khachaturian’s Armenian Genocide Education Committee of Merrimack Valley. ing is limited. Parking is ample in LOT B of the complete cycle of Recitatives and Fugues, Inscribed and autographed books will be available that day or by college campus located at 400 Paramus Road. which will receive its world premiere by the writing Vartabedian at: [email protected]. Curtain opens at 7 p.m. in Room A-104, Pitkin pianist. “The Fugues were written as student Education Center. Early arrival strongly pieces at the Moscow Conservatory in 1928 advised. see CONCERT, page 11 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 ARTS & LIVING

‘Evening of Laughter’ by Actors of TCA

After celebrating the centenary of the Armenian Genocide the actors of the Tekeyan Cultural Association Mher Megerdchian Theatrical Group have recently created “An Evening of Comedy” initiating an atmosphere of smile and laughter on the faces of the members and the theater loving Armenian community. In the past such evenings were performed by individual efforts but this one was a work The actors take a bow, with Harout Chatmajian at right by a group of 8 actors. Thru Harout Barsoumian’s vision and creation this affair introduced a novelty into the life of our com- Zokian, Ani Chatmajian and Hratch Zokian. munity’s cultural life. With the participation On February 20 the Tekeyan Center at of Harout Chatmajian, Harout Barsoumian, Englewood Cliffs in New Jersey was fully Roy Bahian, Talin Bahian, Talar Zokian, occupied with lovers of theater. Due to the Armenag Kroushian, Khachig Sariminassian popularity of the program it was repeated on and Shmavon Atamian the group presented February 21 and March 19 with additional funny situations from the social lives of our future engagements to be declared shortly. community. There are invitations for the group from Presentations of this sort have always other cities in the country. been offered in the city of New York with a At the end of the Evening Harout great popularity. However in this case what Chatmajian presented the members of the was striking was the usage of the Armenian group individually And their talents. He language at its high level of propriety and spoke about future plans of the theater cleanliness yet generating a lot of smile and group. laughter. The group is also informing everyone that A short movie was shown with an interest- the TCA Mher Megerdchian Theatrical ing story of which all the technical work was Group will travel to Armenia on April 8 for prepared by Harout Barsoumian. stage presentations in Yerevan and Gumri, of All the organizational work for this project Berj Zeytountzian’s theatrical work “All was performed by Harout Chatmajian (the Rise…The Court Is In Session.” The audience new chairman of the Theatrical Group) Marie — Hagop Vartivarian

Arzruni to Benefit Old Age Home in Armenia

CONCERT, from page 10 Sts. Sahak and Mesrob Medallion from the and then the composer added the Recitatives Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin I. This in 1968,” Arzruni revealed. Komitas’ rarely year he received the Presidential “Movses performed Moushi Shoror, and Babajanian’s Khorenatsi” Medal. On the occasion of the soul-searing Elegy are also on the musical Centennial in 2003, he was menu. appointed the “representative” of Armenia’s Arzruni is a concert pianist, composer, eth- Ministry of Culture in the diaspora. A well- HHEE RRMMEENNIIAANNSS TT AA II NN OODDEERRNN UU RR KK EE YY MM TT

IISSCUSSIOSCSCUSCUSSISCUSSIONSCUSSCUSSSCUSSION WITWITHH R AALLILINLIN UCUCICIYCIYACIYANIYAN After 1915, ArmeniansA D lived and worked in Dthe .TurkishT stateS alongside those who had persecuted their communities. Living in the midst of pervasive denial, how did those remaining in Anatolia and Istanbul record their history and cope with subsequent discrimination?

Talin Suciyan explores the life experienced by these communities. Special emphasis is given to the period between 1944 and 1950 and the crisis that surrounded the patriarchal election.

The Armenians in Modern Turkey examines remarkable new primary material: Turkish state archives, minutes of the Armenian National Assembly, a kaleidoscopic of personal diaries, memoirs and oral histories, various newspapers, yearbooks and magazines, as well as statutes and laws which led to continuing persecution.

Join us and meet author Talin Suciyan from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich where she is currently an assistant professor at the Institute of Near and Middle Eastern Studies. Sahan Arzruni

RRIIIDIDAIDAYDAY PRIL P M F , A 22222,2, 2202012016016 @ 77:::4:4545 . . nomusicologist, producer and teacher. He has known Komitas specialist, Arzruni in 2008, was St. Leon Armenian Church/Charles & Grace Pinajian Youth Center given command performances at the White also awarded the Komitas Conservatory’s 12-61 Saddle River Road, Fair Lawn, NJ / For information call 201-791-2862 House, at the British, Danish, and Icelandic “Honored Professor” title by Armenia’s courts, has performed with the famed Victor Ministry of Culture. This event is jointly sponsored by Borge, and has been featured in many televi- For tickets to the April 5 concert at Merkin AGBU Ararat, Armenian Network of America- Greater NY, sion and radio broadcasts. Hall, readers should call the Merkin Concert Constantinople Armenian Relief Society (C.A.R.S.), Daughters of Vartan Sahaganoush Otyag of NJ, In 1996, he received an encyclical and the Hall Box Office. Esayan-Getronagan Alumni Inc., Knights of Vartan Bakradouny Lodge of NJ, National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), St. Leon Armenian Church, Tekeyan Cultural Association HHEE EEVEVEEVENEVENTVENT IISS FFRFREFREEREE RREECEPTIONECECEECEPECEPTECEPTIECEPTIOECEPTION WWILLWIILL FOLFOLLOFFOOLLOW TTHEHE DDIDISDISCDISCUSDISCUSSDISCUSSIDISCUSSIODISCUSSIONDISCUISCUSSION AANANDND BOBBOOKOOOOKOK SSISIGSIGNSIGNISIGNINSIGNINGIGNING LIKE US ON FACBOOK T . A . 12 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING SR Socially Relevant Film Festival New York 2016 Announces Winners Recipe

NEW YORK — SR Socially Relevant Film Festival and Girls Award in memory of Founding New York wrapped its third edition with an elegant Artistic Director Nora Armani’s cousin and award ceremony and celebration at the Tenri uncle, victims of a hate crime was presented by Corner Cultural Institute in New York’s Village last night in Ruchira Gupta of Apne Aap, together with. the presence of the filmmakers, jury members, part- Armani and it went to: Myriam Zaki for her ners and sponsors of the festival, the SR Socially work in “Who Killed the Armenians?” directed by Christine Vartanian Datian Relevant Film Festival’s team, and volunteers. by Mohamend Hanafy (Egypt) Festival Founding Artistic Director Nora Armani •The Grand Prize for Best Narrative Feature thanked the filmmakers present and her team, men- Award went to: “Before the Spring” directed by Stuffed Roma Tomatoes with Three Cheeses tioning them as the two most important pillars Ahmed Atef (Egypt). The award was presented without which the festival could not take place. She by narrative feature category jury member Christine Vartanian Datian shares with us her recipe for “Stuffed Roma Tomatoes with then proceeded to thank the sponsors and partners Claus Mueller Three Cheeses” which was originally published in the LasVegas Review Journal on of the festival who had come onboard since the •The Grand Prize for Best Documentary Feature December 9, 2014. beginning as well as the most recent additions. Award went to: “Beneath the Olive Tree” directed INGREDIENTS Hospitality sponsors of the evening were Bocca by Stavroula Toska (USA/ Greece) 12 large Roma tomatoes East/Vella NYC, Fair Vodka, Baum’s Sho cakes, •In the Best Narrative Short category the 1 medium red or white onion, finely minced and Le Grand Triage Wines. Award went to “Eclipse” directed by Ara 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced The awards were handed by the jury mem- Yernjakyan and “My Beautiful White Skin” Olive oil bers present and the awardees were presented directed by Stuart Gatt (UK). 1/2 pound lean ground beef or lamb with the Sona Vessel, designed and created by •The Best Documentary Short Award went to 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, finely minced New York-based designer Michael Aram, sym- “One if By Land” directed by Nandini Sikand (USA) 1/4 cup medium-sized bulgur (found in Middle Eastern markets) bolizing storytelling. •The Best Script Award went to “A Mother’s 2 tablespoons tomato paste Armani mentioned in her opening speech Legacy” by Cilla Lowen (South Africa) 1 teaspoon each dried basil, dried thyme, sea salt and chopped lemon zest that the fact of being here and being selected in •The SR Film Festival’s Humanitarian Award 1/2 teaspoon each black pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika or Aleppo pepper the festival meant that all the filmmakers and went to “Sail the Wind” directed by Christine Dash of cinnamon their films were winners. She then proceeded Knowlton (USA) and to “Vision: Healing the Blind 3/4 cup crumbled Feta and Kasseri cheese, combined with calling out the award categories, and invit- in Ethiopia” directed by Eric Perlman Fresh chopped mint or dried mint for garnish ing the jury member or guest invited to present •The SR Film Festival’s Activism Award went to in the particular category. “Caged No More” directed by Lisa Arnold Marinara or tomato sauce Below is the list of the award categories, and the •The SR Film Festival’s Audience Award Parmesan cheese awarded films and directors. went to “Who Killed the Armenians?” directed Juice of one lemon •The Vanya Exerjian: Empowering Women by Mohamed Hanafy

PREPARATION: Wash the tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise, scoop out and reserve pulp and discard seeds. Holy Trinity Armenian Church’s Erevan ChoralChop reserved pulp and set aside. Sauté the onions with the garlic in a few tablespoons of olive oil until the onions are Society to Present Concert on April 17 translucent. Add the beef or lamb and brown the meat for a few minutes; drain. CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — In commemoration of of Yerevan. Since her arrival in the United States, Add the parsley, bulgur, tomato paste, spices, and tomato pulp, and heat through, stir- the Sainted Martyrs of 1915, and dedicated to Gohar has sung in many Armenian and ring, for 5-10 minutes or until bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the Feta and Kasseri Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian of blessed memo- American churches. Her extensive repertoire cheeses, to taste. Let mixture cool for 5-8 minutes. ry, the Erevan Choral Society of the Holy includes a wide range of European, Russian and Using a tablespoon, spoon some meat mixture into each tomato shell. Place stuffed shells Trinity Armenian Church will present a Concert Armenian operas as well as classical, romantic on a cookie sheet or in a large greased casserole dish. Top each tomato with a tablespoon on Sunday, April 17, at 2:30 p.m., in the church and sacred music. “How Great Thou Art” is or two of marinara or tomato sauce and bake, uncovered, in a preheated 350-degree oven sanctuary at 145 Brattle St. Gohar’s first CD with sacred Armenian songs. for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and sauce is bubbly. (Check occasionally and Under the direction of Konstantin Petrossian, Also included in the program will be recitations spoon more sauce over tomatoes as they are cooking, if desired.) music director and conductor, the Erevan of inspirational poems by students of Holy Remove from oven, top tomatoes with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and some mint, and Choral Society will present a befitting program Trinity’s Armenian School. drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Place on a serving platter with a bowl of marinara that will include Armenian memorial, folk and “It is extremely fitting,” states Fr. Vasken sauce and small slices of garlic cheese toast. Serve hot or cold. patriotic songs. Kouzouian, pastor of Holy Trinity Armenian Serves 4-6. Guest soloists will be David Ayriyan, kaman- Church, “to be dedicating this concert in mem- cha, and mezzo-soprano Gohar Manjelikian, with ory of His Eminence Archbishop Yeghishe Christine's recipes have been published in the Fresno Bee, Sunset and Cooking Light Nune Hakobyan on the organ and piano. Ayriyan Gizirian, who was an avid and long-time sup- Magazines, and at http://www.thearmeniankitchen.com/ is one of Armenia’s greatest musicians, a living porter of the Erevan Choral Society and attend- For Christine's recipes that have been published in Sunset and Cooking Light Magazines, legend, and a virtuoso kamancha performer. The ed as many of the concerts as he was able.” go to: http://www.myrecipes.com/search/site/Datian kamancha is an ancient stringed musical instru- Gizirian served as pastor at Holy Trinity ment of Armenia. David entered Baku Armenian Church from 1974 to 1976; he was Conservatory where he studied this unique the former Primate of the United Kingdom; instrument. He has won Gold Medals in many long-serving pastor among churches of the worldwide competitions, including one in Eastern Diocese; and he was the eldest clergy- Moscow, Russia (1957), and he has toured man of episcopal rank in the Armenian Church. Japanese Translation of Bournoutian Europe, Asia, US and Canada. In 1991, David “We invite the Armenian and non-Armenian and his family moved to the United States, where community to join us on Sunday, April 17,” Book Published by Fujiwara-Shoten he has expanded his repertoire and is able to Kouzouian added, “as we commemorate meet new requests and exploit the full range of through music and poem, the Sainted Holy NEW YORK — A Japanese trans- the kamancha. Mezzo-Soprano Gohar Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide and fondly lation of George Bournoutian’s A Manjelikian is an Armenian artist now living in remember Yeghishe Srpazan.” Concise History of the Armenian the United States. She began her singing career The concert is a gift to the community, but People (Arumenia-jin no Rekishi) in Armenia, in 1981, when she was accepted as a those interested in supporting the Erevan has been published. The book, in member of the State Academic Chorus. She Choral Society may make contributions to Holy hardcover, is 528 pages, published graduated from the Komitas State Conservatory Trinity Armenian Church. by Fujiwara-Shoten. It is available on Amazon-Japan. The translators are professors Dana Walrath to Speak on Latest Book at Fresno FRESNO — Anthropologist, Artist, and Award- withArdziv, an eagle, describing the young sib- winning author Dr. Dana Walrath will speak on ling’s escape. her latest book, Like Water on Stone Dana Walrath is the granddaughter of survivors (Delacorte/Random House, 2014), on April 6, at of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. She earned a Shohei Komaki and Daisaku Watanabe. 7 p.m. at the Armenian Museum of Fresno, PhD in anthropology from the University of Several years ago, while in Tokyo to present housed at University of California Center, 550 East Pennsylvania, an MFA in Writing from Vermont two lectures at the invitation of Sophia Shaw Ave. College of Fine Arts, and a BA from Barnard University, Bournoutian signed a contract with Walrath will also share excerpts from Yerevan’s College, . She completed Like the Fujiwara-Shoten Publishing House to pub- Tumo Center’s animation of her book. Water on Stone (Delacorte/Random House, lish the Japanese translation of his book. Like Water On Stone is a novel in verse about 2014), her first novel, during the year she spent as A Concise History of the Armenian People, cur- the Armenian Genocide of 1915. This absorbing a Fulbright Scholar in Armenia working on a pro- rently in its sixth edition, has sold more than novel tells the story of three siblings who flee into ject that builds on her award-winning graphic 20,000 copies and is used in many institutions of the mountains, hiding by day and running by memoir series Aliceheimer’s (Penn State Press, higher education in the US. night when Ottoman pashas implement their 2016). When not in the mountains of Armenia, It has been translated into Spanish, Turkish, plans to eliminate all Armenians. Lyrical language she lives in the mountains of Vermont where she Arabic, Armenian and Russian. and musical threads wrap the description of the is on faculty at the University of Vermont’s College A Persian translation is expected soon. Armenian genocide in a note of magical realism of Medicine. S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING CC AA LENDARLENDAR

CONNECTICUT APRIL 16 — Saintly Women’s Day for the Parishes of walkers at 12:45pm, an Introduction to walking a labyrinth Massachusetts and Rhode Island, hosted by Holy Trinity with Chiara Megighian Zenati, Certified Labyrinth Facilitator. APRIL 23, 2016 Annual Armenian Genocide Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge. This year, At 1:30 pm - Reception to View The 2016 Configuration of Commemoration. Connecticut State Capitol; Flag we honor Saint Mary, the Holy Mother of the Abstract Sculpture Welcome: Nanore Barsoumian, Editor, Raising at 11:00 a.m.; Commemoration in the House God (Asdvadzadzin), Queen of Heaven. 10:15 a.m., Armenian Weekly; Public Art: Lucas Cowan, Public Art Chambers at 11:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker, Shant Welcome & Coffee; 11 a.m., Church Service;12:00 p.m., Curator, Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy; Personal Mardirossian, Chairman Emeritus, Near East Foundation. Lunch and Program. Guest Speaker: Sr. Bridget Haase, Perspective: Alin Gregorian, Editor, Armenian Mirror OSU. Donation: $35 per person with RSVP deadline Spectator; Tea & Desserts hosted by MEM Tea Imports and of April 11. Reservations should be made through each Eastern Lamejun Bakers. All are invited. MASSACHUSETTS parish’s Women’s Guild/Church group. For further infor- MAY 12 – Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Greater MARCH 13-MAY 21 — Book Tour Schedule for mation or to make individual reservations, please contact Boston Presents the Dr. Michael and Joyce Kolligian Armenians of the Merrimack Valley. Authors E. Philip Cathy Minassian [email protected], or Distinguished Speaker Series, with John Prendergast, Brown and Tom Vartabedian are embarking on a presen- call 617.947.1795. “Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity: Lessons tation tour and book signing of their new book. APRIL 16 – Centennial Commemoration of the 1916 Learned and Hope for the Future.” 7 p.m., Charles and •April 2: Armenian Museum of America (ALMA), 2 pm, Consecration of the Sts. Vartanantz Church, Lowell. Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall, 145 Brattle Street, 65 Main St., Watertown, sponsored by ProjectSAVE Worship Service and Program at the original Sts. Vartanantz Cambridge. John is founder of “The Enough Project,” an •April 7: Avak luncheon, St. Gregory Church, 158 Main Church, 60 Lawrence St., Lowell. Outdoor architectural tour initiative to end genocide and crimes against humanity St., North Andover, noon of the original Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Church at 60 and co-founder of “The Sentry,” a new investigative ini- •May 21: Vermette’s Market, 6 Pond St., Amesbury, 10- Lawrence St., Lowell, starting at 5:30 p.m. followed by a tiative focused on dismantling the networks financial 2, book-signing only prayer service and narrated slide presentation on the for- conflict and atrocities. Reception and book signing to fol- APRIL 2 — Swing into Spring Dinner-Dance. Sts. mation and early life of the parish at 6:00 p.m. The church low talk. Open and free to the public. For further infor- Vartanantz Armenian Church, Chelmsford, Kazanjian is handicap accessible. Reception to follow. Complimentary mation, contact the Church Office, 617.354.0632. Ballroom, 180 Old Westford Rd. Chelmsford. Dinner at 6 admission. For further information, please call 978-256- MAY 14 — Sayat Nova Dance Company of Boston con- p.m. followed by non-stop Armenian and Middle East music 7234, or email [email protected]. tinues its 30th anniversary celebrations with a night of by the Jason Naroian Ensemble featuring Jason Naroian, APRIL 17, 2016 – Erevan Choral Society Concert, “In song and dance with beloved singer Arabo Ispiryan, direct dumbeg and vocals; Brian Anisbigian, oud; Ara Jeknavorian, Commemoration of Our Sainted Martyrs of 1915 and from Armenia. Don’t miss out on this night of pure clarinet; and Dave Anisbigian, guitar. Paid in advance tickets Dedicated to His Eminence Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian Armenian entertainment. Come and celebrate with us as (received by March 27) are $25 for adults, $10 for children of blessed memory.” Sponsored by Holy Trinity Armenian we sing and dance all night with Arabo. Generous appetiz- (6-12), and 5 & under, free. At-the-door, $35 for adults and Church, 2:30 p.m., Church Sanctuary, 145 Brattle St., ers (mezze) will be provided. Doors open at7:30 p.m. To be $15 for children. For reservations, please contact Maria at Cambridge. The Concert is under the direction of held at St. James Armenian Church, Charles Mosesian [email protected] (617-240-3686). Composer Konstantin Petrossian, Music Director and Cultural and Youth Center, 465 Mt, Auburn Street, APRIL 2 — Back by popular demand — Sayat Nova Dance Conductor. Guest Soloists are David Ayriyan, Kamancha, Watertown. Tickets are available by calling Apo at 339-222- Company of Boston (SNDC) proudly presents the return of and Gohar Manjelikian, Mezzo Soprano, with Nune 2410 or Hagop at 617-780-6295. VIP table seating at renowned entertainer/comedian/ pianist Kev Orkian to Hakobyan on the organ and piano. We invite the $100/person (includes 1 free drink/person and a bottle of Boston, with his brand new show “Little Fingers.” Saturday, Armenian and non-Armenian community to join us as we champagne for the table); Premium table seating at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7:30) in Shaw Auditorium, Watertown commemorate through music and poem the Holy $75/person (includes a bottle of champagne for the table); High School, 50 Columbia St., Watertown. Reserved seating Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide and remember General seating: $65. Please reserve your tickets early. only. Tickets are available by 617-852-1816. VIP tickets (limit- Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian of blessed memory. The MAY 18 — Chefs Party for Our Park! Benefit for ed amount available) are $65 and include reserved priority concert is a gift to the community. Armenian Heritage Park’s Ongoing Care Royal Sonesta seating and pre-show private reception with Kev. General APRIL 22 — The annual commemoration of the Hotel Boston, Cambridge. Celebrate with Boston’s Top show tickets are $50, includes reserved seating. Armenian Genocide at the Massachusetts State Chefs, presenting signature dishes inspired by parents, Visit www.sayatnova.com for the seating chart and see House. Friday, 10.30 a.m., State House Chamber, grandparents or mentors for you to taste while you mix, attached flyer for more details. Catered Reception at 12 noon in the Great Hall. mingle and support a great cause. Advanced APRIL 4 — St. James Men’s Club, Monday, featuring as APRIL 23 — Procession and flag raising for 101st Reservations only. To be acknowledged in the Evening speaker former CVS Health Vice President for customer anniversary of Armenian Genocide at Lowell City Hall, Thank You, please respond by May 6. To receive an invi- service Mark Kolligian, whose topic will be “Healthcare in 10 a.m., followed by a reception and cultural program by tation, please email your name and email address to the 21st Century.” Losh Kebab and Kheyma Dinner. area schoolchildren at nearby Masonic Center. Sponsored [email protected] Social Hour 6:15 p.m., Dinner 7 p.m. $15 per person. St. by the Armenian National Committee of Merrimack James Armenian Church, Charles Mosesian Cultural and Valley & Armenian Genocide Commemorative ILLINOIS Youth Center, Keljik Hall, 465 Mount Auburn St., Committee of Merrimack Valley. For the march, gather at Watertown. Ladies are welcome. corner of Merrimack & John Streets at 9:30 a.m. APRIL 18 — Award-winning poet and critic Peter APRIL 7 — Book Event: Reclaiming Konia: A Tale of APRIL 30 — Armenian / American Dance, Saturday, 7 Balakian will give a Center for Advanced Study (CAS)/ Love, Loss and the Armenian Genocide by Heather p.m. – 12 a.m., 1 Market Street, Lawrence, MillerCommlecture on “The Armenian Genocide, Poetry Martin book talk and signing, 7:30 p.m., Adele & Haig Complimentary Coffee & Dessert, Cash Bar, 50/50 Raffle, of Witness, and Postmemory” at the Spurlock Museum Der Manuelian Galleries (3rd Floor). Heather Martin will Armenian music provided by Jason Naroian Ensemble, Auditorium at 4 p.m. University of Illinois at Urbana- speak about the development of the book, reading her American music provided by DJ Kory Sirmaian. Tickets: Champaign. The event is free and open to the public and favorite passages, and signing copies. The event is free $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Melanee Naroian:(978) hosted by The Initiative in Holocaust, Genocide, and and open to the public and light refreshments will be 683-0613, Lucy Sirmaian: (978) 683-9121. Sponsored by Memory Studies. Co-sponsored by: Center for South served at the reception. The Armenian Church at Hye Pointe Women’s Guild. Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Department of APRIL 9 — Sayat Nova Dance Company 30th anniver- MAY 5 – “Can Feminists Revive a Nation? Afterlife of English, Department of French and Italian, Department sary Alumni Reunion. Saturday, 7:30 p.m. in Armenians in Post-Genocide Turkey.” Reception and of Germanic Languages and Literatures, Department of Cambridge. Calling all SNDC Alumni and members for an illustrated talk with MIT Professor Lerna Ekmekcioglu on History, Department of Religion, European Union Center, evening of fun and surprises. Come eat, socialize, remi- her new book, Recovering Armenia: The Limits of Program in Comparative and World Literature, Program nisce.... RSVP by March 20, Belonging in Post-Genocide Turkey. 7:30 p.m. Armenian in Jewish Culture and Society, Spurlock Museum, The at [email protected] or call 617-923-4455. Museum of America, Watertown. Co-sponsored by the Future of Trauma and Memory Studies Reading Group. APRIL 9-10 — Two days of workshops, presentations, Armenian International Women’s Association, National community and discovering your Armenian roots. Association for Armenian Studies & Research, and NEW YORK This conference grew out of the Armenian Genealogy Armenian Museum of America. Info: 617-926-0171 or APRIL 5 – Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) presents group (Haygagan Dzakumnapanutyun) on Facebook. [email protected]; 617-489-1610 Sahan Arzruni in Benefit Concert “Together for Watertown. Cosponsored by National Association for [email protected]. Armenia,” Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. An evening of solo piano Armenian Studies and Research; Project SAVE Armenian MAY 7 — The Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye music to benefit the Vanadzor Old Age Home adminis- Photograph Archives, Houshamadyan, Armenian Pointe in Haverhill will have a one-day food festival tered by FAR. Merkin Concert Hall - Kaufman Music Museum of America, Tekeyan Cultural Association, and on Saturday at the church hall. 12:00 to 7:00 p.m. Center, 129 West 67th Street, New York. Tickets $35, will Hamazkayin-Boston. Various times, Watertown area. To Armenian Pride Food Festival. Armenian Church at Hye go on sale in February 2016. Please contact FAR for more register, visit http://www.armeniangenealogyconfer- Pointe Hall, 110 Main St., Haverhill. Meal Choice of One: info: [email protected] or 212.889.5150. ence.com/registration/ Losh/Chicken/Kheyma, with pilaf, salad, and hot/cold APRIL 15 — “Conversing with My Sister.” Salpi garnish Additional children’s meal of hot dog & chips: Ghazarian, director of the Institute of Armenian also available will be pastry, choerig, Armenian cheese, RHODE ISLAND Studies at the University of Southern California, inter- and cold drinks. views her sister, author Maral Boyadjian, on Maral’s MAY 7 — Experience Public Art! during ArtWeek Boston. APRIL 16 — Saints Sahag and Mesrob Armenian book, As the Poppies Bloomed, a family history. 7 p.m. Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway, Boston. At 1 p.m. Church, Providence, Commemoration of the Reception, 8 p.m. At the Armenian Cultural Foundation - World Labyrinth Day: Walk As One At 1 Together with peo- Armenian Genocide, “Legacy of our Martyrs,” in Arlington. Sponsored by the Armenian Cultural ple in cities and towns worldwide, walk the labyrinth at 1pm Saturday at 7 p.m. Concert of Armenian Patriotic Songs Foundation, Armenian International Women’s joining this annual international initiative of The Labyrinth Performed by the Armenian Chorale of Rhode Island, 70 Association, and Amaras Art Alliance. Free and open to Society in collaboration with the Labyrinth Guild of New Jefferson St., Providence. Fellowship- Egavian Hall, fol- the public England and Friends of Armenian Heritage Park. For first-time lowing concert 14 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

COMMENTARY Mirror Jerusalem Patriarchate Up for Grabs

Bethlehem, asking him to admit misconduct and apologize to Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian Hrayr Yezegelian. During three consecutive visits, he secretly recorded “the confessions” of Fr. Khat, probably to be used by the producer of the program on TV. In recent years, sexual scandals plaguing the Catholic Church The interesting item to note is that the alleged victim has con- in the US and elsewhere have become routine. These scandals fessed on Facebook: “This individual has found the perfect prey dominate the headlines and have weakened the Catholic in me and abused me for years also, even long after leaving the EstablishedEstablished 1932 1932 Church, which besides being a religious institution, is also a seminary school.” An ADLAn Publication ADL Publication powerful political force. For instance, it was revealed recently This raises the question of why he would return to the semi- that Pope Francis had played a major role in the US-Cuba rap- nary after leaving if he were offended by the conduct of his prochement. abuser. When there is such a powerful institution with awesome polit- In the aftermath of the airing of this documentary by the TV station, an attorney, Roni Aloni-Sdovnik, has filed a lawsuit EDITOR ical clout, there certainly will be other forces offended or hurt Alin K. Gregorian by that clout and they will resort to any means at their dispos- against the Patriarchate, seeking 15 million Israeli shekels in al — in this case, the news media — to retaliate. damages. ASSISTANT EDITOR Having said that, the Catholic priests caught red-handed can- Officially, the Patriarchate has been silent so far. Aram Arkun not be absolved as the courts have been handing down guilty The incident has several dimensions: a) The veracity of the accusation which in turn touches on b) the issue of celibacy and ART DIRECTOR verdicts in many cases, resulting in embarrassment and huge Marc Mgrditchian damages for the church and its coffers. c) what the Israeli station gains by airing the incident, at the The issue of clergy celibacy is considered the root cause of same time implicating the Patriarchate as an institution, beyond those abuses while the Catholic Church obstinately remains the alleged individual culprit. attached to that anachronistic practice. The Catholic Church A background check reveals that after the Israeli army’s occu- has gone through many reforms, and has still more to face, yet pation of Beirut, Lebanon, in 1982, the Yezegelian family moved SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: the issue of clergy celibacy is not on the agenda. to Jerusalem, where the Patriarchate provided them with hous- Edmond Y. Azadian As we review the media coverage, more often than not, the ing, according to its long-held tradition. The three brothers have Catholic Church seems to be singled out for exposure. Other been enrolled at the seminary, but they have chosen not to enter CONTRIBUTORS: denominations certainly experience similar problems, but we into the priesthood. Hrayr, at the age of 38, seems to be a life- Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiun learn about them only casually or seldom. long student, studying psychology. He seems to be a drifter, in Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Diana When you don’t have tangible facts at hand, you are on a very need of some psychological help. Der Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, dangerous road to prove a conspiracy theory. But when you In the meantime, he decided to join the Mormon Church. For Kevork Keushkerian, Harut Sassounian, many years, the alleged sexual abuse did not bother him enough Hagop Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian extrapolate the facts you may state with a certain confidence that there must be validity to such a conspiracy in operation and for him to take action. Only after the expiration of the statute CORRESPONDENTS: their motivation is a power struggle. of limitation did he come out to accuse his alleged abusers. In a Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Warring factions always count on the weaknesses of the oppo- dubious collaboration, Fr. Norayr Kazazian has secretly video- Boston - Nancy Kalajian nent to exploit and to score points or victory. And the Catholic taped Fr. Khat Jundurian’s confession. He also invited the Israeli Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian Church — or its sinning clergy — has been exposing those weak- TV to shoot the confrontation of the “victim” and the “abuser” Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach nesses. while interfering during a church service. Contributing Photographers: The above intro- We cannot absolve Jacob Demirdjian and Jirair Hovsepian duction was present- the predators and we ed in order to outline can only sympathize the parameters of with the “victim” if this multidimension- indeed the accusa- The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published al problem. tion has a founda- weekly, except two weeks in July and the first tion. But the theatri- week of the year, by: Now it seems that the scandal has come cal denouement of Baikar Association, Inc. to knock on the the situation smells 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 doors of the fishy. The people and Telephone: 617-924-4420 Armenian Church. the TV channel have FAX: 617-924-2887 News has been circu- gone too far and www.mirrorspectator.com lating in Israeli and their actions do not E-Mail: [email protected] Armenian news out- pass the smell test. If For advertising: [email protected] lets as well as social Hrayr was indeed a media about sexual victim, he is being abuse by Armenian victimized again clergy. along with the insti- The scandal has tution of the many components. Patriarchate, which SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Armenians being faces public embar- part of the human rassment, beyond the race, they are also 15 million shekel law- U.S.A. $80 a year preconditioned to be afflicted by the vices of the rest of the suit. humans. An element of primitive pride sometimes keeps us in The TV channel Israel Today has yet to dedicate a documen- Canada $125 a year the mode of self-denial. We think that there cannot be drug tary to Yeshiva students who spit at the faces of the Armenian Other Countries $190 a year addiction among Armenians, nor domestic violence, nor prosti- clergy and desecrate the walls of the churches, which the police tution, etc. In reality, all of the above are part and parcel of our and the courts ignore. social fabric. The issue remains how to identify them, find the Another suitable topic for the same TV channel to investigate root causes and face them realistically and how we we treat might be the causes for the dwindling Armenian community in © 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator them or deal with them prudently. Jerusalem. Indeed, in 1967 the Armenian community in Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA During the last week in February, an Israeli TV channel called Jerusalem was 10,000 to 15,000 strong. Today, the count is and additional mailing offices. Israel Today aired a 15-minute documentary titled “Demons of below 1,500. ISSN 0004-234X the Past,” where an accuser, named Hrayr Yezegelian, is fea- Even if Hrayr Yezegelian’s accusation have no foundation, we tured entering the Armenian Monastery of St. James in cannot rule out abuses in a monastic setting, where male celi- Jerusalem to face Fr. Khat Jundurian, who allegedly had abused bate priests live together. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn him sexually at age 13 when he was a seminary student. Until the fifth century, Armenian catholicoi and archbishops St., Watertown, MA 02472 Viewing the video clip circulating on Facebook, it seems it is were married and raised families. Gradually, celibacy made Other than the editorial, views and opinions carefully choreographed and staged. inroads in the church, with ascetic monks sacrificing worldly expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily The same alleged victim, Mr. Yezegelian, 38, also accused pleasures and taking a vow of celibacy. There were even stylites, reflect the policies of the publisher. Archbishop David Sahakian, who was the dean of Jerusalem ascetic monks who drove the self-punishment to the extreme by Seminary in 1990. According to the Le Progres newspaper, a living on top of pillars for many years on. The self-flagellation of lawsuit was filed against the archbishop on July 22, 2013, and celibate priests is well-described poetically in Gregory of Narek’s on January 22, 2015, the French law enforcement agencies Book of Lamentations. launched an investigation. He was charged with sexual abuse of The celibate priests practiced monastic life in isolation. The Copying for other than personal use or a child under 15. The archbishop passed away in the middle of monasteries were called anabat (wilderness or desert). internal reference is prohibited without March in Decienes (Rhone), France at the age of 81. He had Archbishop Malachia Ormanian states in his book, The express permission of the copyright been serving the Diocese of Lyon in France. Armenian Church, that the celibate priests could not assume owner. Address requests for reprints or pastoral positions nor perform sacraments of marriage and back issues to: According to a knowledgeable writer, Nahabed Melkonian, who has released an article on the Internet (“When Pandora’s funerals, because they were not supposed to come into contact Box Has Been Opened”), another priest from the St. James with parishioners or the public. Baikar Association, Inc. Brotherhood, Fr. Norayr Kazazian, visited Fr. Khat in continued on next page 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472- 1509 S ATURDAY, A PRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

Hager states that, “nowhere is the influence and power of to their opponents. For example, former Congressman Paul a political lobby more evident than in the annual Policy Findley and former Senator Charles Percy lost their seats for Conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee failure to adhere to the AIPAC line.” (AIPAC)” held on March 22-24 in Washington, DC. The author’s criticisms emanate from his concern that “the Conference speakers addressed “more than 15,000 pro- appearance of conflict of interest erodes citizen trust in gov- My Turn Israel Americans (including 2/3 of the current Members of ernment. Given the critical importance of money for reelec- Congress). Among the speakers were 30 members of the U.S. tion campaigns, political contributions such as mentioned By Harut Sassounian Congress, 25 of whom received 2016 contributions from pro- above have the potential to corrupt or create the appearance Israel PACs and individuals, averaging $36,000 per recipient of corrupting otherwise honest officials.” ($908,000 in total). From each of those speakers, AIPAC Hager acknowledges that AIPAC is “only one part of a larg- Better to Support Armenian gains a public expression of high level support for Israel.” er picture, dominated by congressional fundraising and lobby Activists Than Criticize Azeri & Hager reported that the AIPAC conference attracted near- contributions,” such as “Defense, pharmaceuticals, the NRA ly 400 speakers, including “Vice President Joe Biden and and other lobbies….” Turkish Lobbying Presidential candidates Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, Ted In my view, it is justified to criticize lobbying firms and Cruz and John Kasich.” According to the writer, “AIPAC gen- their paymasters when they violate U.S. laws. However, it is For years, many critical books and articles have been writ- erated contributions in the amount of $212,927 for Hillary more important to strengthen one’s own lobbying efforts ten about foreign countries and domestic groups for hiring Clinton and $203,850 for Ted Cruz. Marco Rubio received than disparage what others are doing. While it is necessary lobbying firms or making campaign contributions to influ- $132,552 and Lindsey Graham $74,200. No surprise that all from an Armenian perspective to monitor closely the lobby- ence government officials. of those candidates have pledged ‘full support’ for Israel.” ing firms hired by Turkey and Azerbaijan, Armenians should One such article was published last week by L. Michael The author considers “The AIPAC-led pro-Israel lobby” as focus on what they can do to support their two public affairs Hager in the Foreign Policy Journal titled, “The Best “probably the strongest, best organized and most effective organizations in Washington — The Armenian Assembly and Congress AIPAC Can Buy.” AIPAC is the acronym for the lobby network in Washington, DC. For the 2015-2016 elec- Armenian National Committee of America. Despite their lim- American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The author tion cycle, the pro-Israel network has already dispensed ited staff and resources, these Armenian-American groups acknowledges that “there is nothing illegal or morally wrong $4,255,136 in contributions. The largest single amount have been successfully countering the activities of major lob- with lobbying Congress or candidates for office. In fact, it can ($259,688) went to Senator Charles Schumer of New York.” bying firms hired for millions of dollars by Turkey and serve a useful purpose in educating members and candidates Hager explains that “AIPAC itself does not make political Azerbaijan. about matters subject to legislation. The problem comes contributions and is in fact legally prohibited from doing so. Fortunately, Armenian-American groups do not need such when the lobbyists use money to secure access or buy sup- Instead it uses its considerable resources ($3 million annual exorbitant sums to pursue their political goals in Washington port for proposed bills and resolutions.” After that benign lobbying budget) to link current and aspiring members of because it costs much less to present the truth of their just introduction, however, Hager concludes that “for the sake of Congress with pro-Israel donors. AIPAC’s projection of invin- cause, unlike Turkey and Azerbaijan which have to spend our democracy, the flow of interest group money that is buy- cibility encourages political candidates and officeholders to huge amounts of money to deceive the politicians and the ing off our elected lawmakers must be stopped.” accept pro-Israel contributions or risk seeing those funds go public!

Jerusalem Patriarchate Up for Grabs The Armenian Genocide – from previous page In today’s globalized world, these canons have outlived their usefulness. The celi- bate priests no longer observe the rigors of monastic life; they are out in public. The The Other Holocaust temptation is overpowering and that is why we come across clergy promiscuity and sexual abuse. One of the priorities in reforming the Armenian Church must be the abolition of celibacy, which is seldom truly practiced anyway. The elimination of retreated from that pledge on assuming the celibacy is not a cure all but it will certainly reduce the number of incidences and By Stephen Kurkjian presidency. While Obama has stated that he some will be honest with themselves and relieve the church of hypocrisy. After all, it continues to believe personally that a Genocide is not celibacy that creates child abuse, but since people who can find a life in a pseu- had taken place, the Turkish government has do-celibate life can often be around children, it is an ideal situation for them to find For the Armenian people who have long had mounted a multi-million dollar lobbying cam- victims. to suffer the world’s indifference to the attempt paign and presented him with an offer that he Armenians occupy one fourth of the old city of Jerusalem — a disproportionate fig- to extinguish them a century ago, there was a has been unable to refuse. Regardless of any ure compared to the size of the population. In addition to many churches and monas- moment last April when all the frustrations and questions of conscience or the historical and teries, the Patriarchate also owns prime real estate there. tribulations of that sad history seemed to wash moral upper ground that would be gained by The St. James Brotherhood in Jerusalem has historically been a source of pride and away. recognizing the Armenian Genocide, Turkey embarrassment. For centuries it has trained clergy for Armenian Churches around the In the center of the Vatican’s St. Peter’s has stressed to the United States that as a world. Many scholarly volumes have been produced there. And, Jerusalem’s Basilica, Pope Francis celebrated a Mass with NATO member, it is America’s strongest mili- Patriarchate houses the largest collection of illuminated manuscripts after the the top prelates of the Armenian Church to tary ally in the increasingly hostile Middle East in Yerevan. But it has also rocked the Armenian world with sporadic commemorate the 100th anniversary of the and to back the Genocide Resolution would be scandals, with valuable real estate “lost” from time to time, manuscripts and chalices Armenian Genocide. Near the end of the Mass, a diplomatic insult to it. disappear, and sexual abuse and promiscuity are reported from time to time. the Pope called on the world to recognize what Particularly ironic in the debate is that one of Sometimes, some priests are worthy of blame in those cases. But the Patriarchate’s had happened to the Armenians in 1915 was the fiercest past advocates for recognizing the possessions are prime reasons for encroachment by others. indeed a Genocide — and then, in a transcen- Genocide has been one of Obama’s closest for- Many discredited methods are implemented by other religious orders and the Israeli dent gesture, stood with his hands cupped in eign policy advisors. Samantha Power, US government to bilk chunks of Armenian properties. the traditional pose of accepting the offering as Ambassador to the United Nations, authored During the Camp David summit in July 22-25-2000, Ehud Barak of Israel and PLO the Lord’s Prayer was sung in Armenian. the book “A Problem from Hell: America and leader Yasser Arafat had almost signed a peace agreement, under President Clinton’s It was a stunning moment for all Armenians. The Age of Genocide.” In the book, which won prodding. But the deal fell through because of some sticking points. Along with a Practically every one of us lost a loved one in the Pulitzer Prize for Non-Fiction in 2003, number of critical matters, Israel insisted on keeping the Armenian Quarter under its those massacres by the Ottoman Turks in 1915, Power said America’s failure to act more rule, which Arafat refused. and the losses have grown heavier during the forthrightly against attacks against ethnic or That historic fact can attest to the importance of the Armenian Quarter for the ensuing century because of the lack of world- political minorities in the 20th century – Israeli government. wide official recognition to that mass murder, whether against Armenians, Jews, in Cambodia, There are a number of properties lost or leased for 100 or 200 years. There may no less justice from Turkey. Rwanda or Bosnia – has only ensured that the also be others which remain unreported. While many governments spurred by the his- problem will carry over to the next century. The holy places are governed by a set of regulations enshrined in what is called the torical record have adopted resolutions If there is a flicker of hope that this year’s Status Quo. Those regulations had been established through a firman (decree) issued acknowledging the Genocide, three countries commemoration might provide a revelatory by the Ottoman Sultan Osman III in the 18th century. After the Ottomans, British towards whom Armenians have looked the moment of conscience as Pope Francis did last colonial rule and the Jordanian administration have observed it carefully, the Israeli most — Turkey, the United States and Israel — April on the 100th anniversary at St. Peter’s, it authorities are officially committed to it, but in the case of the Armenians, the regu- have failed to follow the Pope’s powerful words. rests with Ambassador Power. If she needs a lations are being undermined at a steady process. Turkey’s reasons are the most specious. It model, all she need do is view the last season’s The St. James Brotherhood is technically independent from outside interference. contends that the more than one million episode of “House of Cards” in which the fic- Even the supreme authority of the Armenian Church legally has no say. That is why Armenians who were killed were not victims of tionalized US ambassador to the United some clergy out there demonstrate their arrogance with impunity. an intentional campaign by the Ottoman Nations – the wife of the US President – As the brotherhood weakens, opportunities are offered for intruders. If today Fr. regime but rather casualties of World War I. Yet decides at a press conference to unleash a with- Norayr Kazezian serves as a conduit to exposed so-called scandal, we may rest assured the International Association of Genocide ering verbal attack against the Russian presi- that other elements are being tested continually because the prize is so valuable. Scholars unanimously passed a resolution rec- dent, standing a few feet away, because of his In addition to the illuminated manuscripts there are other archival materials vital ognizing the Armenian Genocide in 1997 and country’s inhumane treatment of homosexuals, for Armenian history. For example, during World War I, the archives of the sent a letter to the Turkish Prime Minister urg- a policy which has led to the suicide of an Constantinople Patriarchate were moved to Jerusalem for safekeeping. They contain ing recognition.. imprisoned American citizen. Her outburst crucial documents about the Armenian Genocide. No one for sure is aware of their The reluctance of the US Congress and a suc- costs her husband’s administration a diplomat- fate. cession of American presidents to adopt a reso- ic breakthrough with Russia but it is clear, at St. James Brotherhood always prided itself with many scholarly works. The last lution recognizing the Genocide is particularly least in Hollywood’s eyes, that in some rare Mohican was perhaps Archbishop Norayr Bogharian, the guardian and the cataloguer painful for the estimated 1.5 million Armenians moments choices of conscience are the better of the manuscripts. After his death, no catalogs have been published to our knowl- who live in America. As Bill Clinton and George course to take. edge. W. Bush had done during their campaigns for In the real world, however, President Obama The sexual abuse scandal seems to be the tip of the iceberg. The TV exposure and president, Barack Obama pledged on running has remained a resolute friend of Turkey, even the invasion of the Patriarchate do not auger well. for the White House in 2008 that he would sup- looking past increased acts of repression by Indeed, the “Demons of the Past” have been resurrected but their target seems to port the introduction of a Genocide Resolution President Recep Tayyip Erdogan against the be somewhere beyond the predators — it is the destiny of the Armenian Patriarchate in Congress. press, ethnic minorities and political foes. The in Jerusalem. And as Clinton and Bush had done, Obama see HOLOCAUST, page 16 16 S ATURDAY, APRIL 2 , 2 0 1 6 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR The Armenian Genocide – The Other Holocaust

HOLOCAUST, from page 15 the fourth-floor wall of the US Holocaust And as was seen in Greater Boston almost a fiction book on the historic theft from the White House went so far as to block public dis- Museum in Washington, D.C., as a permanent decade ago when a Jewish organization refus- Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, MASTER play last year of a rug that had been woven by reminder. es to take a stand supporting Armenians, indi- THIEVES: The Boston Gangsters Who Pulled Armenian youths orphaned by the Genocide How could this shunning persist, Armenians viduals within the organization have been will- Off The World’s Greatest Art Heist. and given as a gift to President Calvin ask, especially when the two men who played ing to stand up and take a moral stand. (This commentary by Stephen Kurkjian Coolidge and the American people in thanks integral roles in alerting the world to what was In 2007, the national Anti-Defamation originally appeared n the March 17 edition of for their life-saving generosity in the 1920s. taking place and the need for worldwide con- League and its national director Abraham the Jewish Journal. The link is Nowhere is the moral argument for adopting demnation of such acts were Jews. When Foxman refused to adopt a forthright state- http://boston.forward.com/articles/189195/t of the Genocide Resolution seen stronger – Henry Morgenthau, the US Ambassador to ment in support of the Armenian Genocide he-armenian-genocide-the-other- and the loss felt deeper – than with Israel. But Turkey, was unable to convince the Wilson recognition, and Andrew Tarsy, the head of its holocaust/#ixzz44Dd4kkc1) such recognition would breach the long-stand- Administration to stop the killings, he made New England office hesitated in speaking out. ing and deep strategic ties that exist between certain his diplomatic posts were shared with But within a short period, Tarsy criticized Turkey and Israel. Turkey was the first Muslim the New York Times so the American public Foxman’s position, which resulted in his being country to recognize the new state of Israel was made aware of the extent of the mas- fired as ADL’s regional director but served to Diyarbakir’s Surp Giragos with the two countries formalizing ties in sacres. rally most of the Jewish community to his side. Church Expropriated by 1949, and those early ties developed into mili- A generation later, Raphael Lemkin, a “I have been in conflict over this issue for tary and economic cooperation between them, Jewish lawyer from Poland who was outraged several weeks,” Tarsy said at the time. “I regret Turkish Authorities which pertain despite frequent anti-Israeli out- that the Ottoman Turkish leaders had at this point any characterization that I made bursts by Erdogan in recent years. escaped prosecution in their attempt to exter- publicly other than to call it a genocide. I DIYARBAKIR, from page 1 Yet, the Armenians and Jews too have bonds minate the Armenians began a seminal study think that kind of candor about history is Speaking to Agos, Diyarbakir Metropolitan between them – in shared suffering. Thirty of such mass killings. His work led to the absolutely fundamental.” Municipality Cultural Heritage Director Nevin years after the Armenian Genocide, six million coining of the term Genocide and the pas- Soylukaya stated that all churches and proper- Jews were killed by Adolph Hitler’s Nazi sage by the United Nations in 1948 of a con- Stephen Kurkjian, a Boston native, is the ties belonging to the foundations have been regime. vention banning such acts of atrocities son of a survivor of the Armenian Genocide. A seized. Soylukaya also said that some proper- In fact, before Hitler began his murderous against a people. retired investigative reporter and editor for ties belonging to the municipality are also campaign in eastern Europe, a campaign that Similarly, despite the official position of the The Boston Globe, Kurkjian won the Pulitzer expropriated and they will initiate legal action. would soon lead to the Holocaust, he is said to Israeli government it is the extraordinary Prize for Investigative Reporting on two occa- She urged the owners of the expropriated prop- have told his generals not to worry about the understanding and support that individual sions, and also was a member of The Globe erties to take legal action. consequences. Jews and Jewish-American organizations have Spotlight Team, whose coverage of the sexual Walls of Diyarbakir and Hevsel Gardens were “Who Still Talks Nowadays of the given to the Armenians in their search for abuse scandal within the Boston Archdiocese added to UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015. Armenians?” Hitler stated less than 25 years recognition of the Genocide that has helped won the Pulitzer Prize’s Gold Medal for Public And Sur province is considered as a buffer zone after the Genocide, a quote that is etched on keep the bond between the two people strong. Service in 2003. He recently authored a non- for Walls of Diyarbakir. Sur is the only center that have places of wor- ship for non-Muslims. Surp Giragos Church, Surp Sarkis Chaldean Church, Armenian Catholic Church, Virgin Mary Ancient Assyrian Church and Protestant Church are in Sur and currently closed to worship. There is no other church in Diyarbakir. Chaldean Church belongs to Mor Petyun Chaldean Catholic Church Foundation and Virgin Mary Ancient Assyrian Church belongs to Virgin Mary Ancient Assyrian Church Foundation. Apart from them, in Diyarbakir, there are 6 churches that is owned by various state institutions. Surg Giragos Armenian Church was left to its own fate, after its congregants left. With legal changes in foundation administration, people from Diyarbakir living in Istanbul formed a new administrative body and initiated restoration work. With the help of funding campaigns start- ed in the US and other countries, the church was restored. About 2 million liras was spent for restoration. And it was awarded with various prestigious restoration awards. Member of Parliament Garo Paylan, who is a member of the Kurdish People’s Democratic Party Garo Paylan said that he presented an inquiry to Prime Minister Ahmed Davutoglu regarding the expropriation of a number of areas and structures in Diyarbakir, Sur. Paylan published the nine-point inquiry form on his Facebook page. The Prime Minister was specifically asked about the reason of “immedi- ate expropriation” of the total 6,300 properties, what legislations are to be made under the act, and how the rights of the citizens living in Sur will be protected. In addition, the inquiry requests to clarify whether the expropriation decision affects the Christian, the Assyrian and Chaldean churches. The MPs also asked whether the decision to expropriate the property of churches of minori- ties does not contradict the legislation and the Treaty of Lausanne.

British MP Visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan

YEREVAN (Public Radio of Armenia) — Member of the UK House of Commons as well as member of the British delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Mark Pritchard visited the Memorial on Tuesday, March 29, accompanied by Armenian lawmakers Hermine Naghdalyan and Naira Zohrabyan. Pritchard laid flowers at the Memorial to the Armenian Genocide victims and paid tribute to their memory with a minute of silence. He toured the Armenian Genocide Museum Institute and wrote a note in guestbook.