OCTOBER 13, 2012

THE ARMENIAN

Mirror -Spe ctaItn Ouor Mirror -Spe ctatror 80th Year Volume LXXXIII, NO. 13, Issue 4258 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 Kevorkian Estate, Archbishop Baliozian Laid to Rest ALMA Settle BIRMINGHAM, Mich. (AP) — A lawyer says a dis - pute has been settled between Dr. Jack Kevorkian’s estate and a Watertown museum over the owner - By Arthur Hagopian ship of 17 of the assisted-suicide advocate’s paint - ings. The executor of Kevorkian’s estate, Michigan- SYDNEY — In death, as in life, based attorney Mayer Morganroth, told the Detroit Archbishop Aghan Baliozian, the News last week that the Armenian Library and late Primate of the Diocese of the Museum of America (ALMA) in Watertown, Mass., Armenian Church of Australia and will keep four paintings. Thirteen others will be New Zealand, garnered an endless returned to Kevorkian’s estate. row of tributes from all with whom The museum sued in federal court in he came into contact. Massachusetts last year ahead of a New York auc - And they were legion, for he was tion. It claimed Kevorkian donated the art in 1999. a man of and for all people. His estate said he loaned it to the museum for an They were all there, laymen and exhibit and subsequent storage. clergymen alike, standing in silent Kevorkian died in 2011 at age 83. and solemn vigil at his graveside as The Boston Globe reported in 2008 that his casket was lowered in the for - Kevorkian, who was the child of two Armenian eign soil of Sydney, a shore too dis - Burial ceremony, with Archbishop Nourhan Manougian in center and Archbishop Natan Genocide survivors, planned to attend the unveil - tant from his native Aleppo, Syria. Hovhannessian to his right ing of the paintings when they came to the muse - In a ceremony embellished with um. all the pomp and grandeur due a In a phone interview at the time, Kevorkian said prince of the church, Baliozian was buried burial ceremony stretched to nearly four entered Sydney’s Royal North Shore hos - he did not consider himself an artist, just someone in the Armenian section of the North Ryde hours and was presided over by visiting pital for treatment. He passed away on who “puts in paint the condition of the world that cemetery on October 4. Archbishop Natan Hovhannessian, the per - September 22. we live in.” Eulogized and lionized by a panoply of sonal envoy of the Catholicos of All There were no bells to ring to spread the He said he began to paint as a hobby when he dignitaries representing not only the estab - Armenians Karekin II, assisted by the news of his passing, the rust-encrusted bel - was a young man. But he kept delving into the top - lished Christian churches and state and fed - Patriarchal Vicar of Jerusalem, Archbishop fry perching forlorn atop the Armenian ics of life and death he dealt with as a medical eral officialdom, but the local community Nourhan Manougian. church in Sydney’s high-end Chatswood examiner. “Everyone was painting landscapes and and ethnic groupings as well, Baliozian was Baliozian had been in poor health over suburb, muffled by city ordinance. clowns and I couldn’t see the value in that. I guess sent along to his final journey. The elaborate the past few years, and had recently see FUNERAL, page 3 the rebel in me was thinking I’ll shock them,” he recalled. Oskanian Defiant Renowned Composer Caltech Biologist Sarkis Mazmanian After Being Mirzoyan Dies at 92 YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Renowned com - Named MacArthur Fellow Charged with poser Edvard Mirzoyan died on October 5, after a long illness. He was 92. PASADENA, Calif. — Sarkis Mazmanian, a microbiology expert at the California Money Laundering Mirzoyan was born on May 12, 1921 in Gori, Institute of Technology (Caltech) whose studies of human gut bacteria have revealed Georgia. He graduated from the Komitas State new insights into how these Conservatory. He left for Moscow to further refine microbes can be beneficial, was By Gayane Abrahamyan his art. In 1956, he was elected president of the named a MacArthur Fellow and Armenian Composers’ Union, a position he held awarded a five-year, $500,000 until 1991. grant. Each year, the John D. YEREVAN (ArmeniaNow) — Former Mirzoyan’s compositional output was relatively and Catherine T. MacArthur Minister of Foreign Affairs and current MP small but distinguished, combining lyricism with Foundation awards the unre - Vartan Oskanian, who was formally drama. With its formal structure and tonal design, stricted fellowships — also charged with money laundering on his style has been described as neoclassical, with known as “genius” grants — to Monday, said he was ready to run for presi - elements of Armenian folksong always present. individuals who have shown dent in next year’s presidential election if Mirzoyan’s String Quartet, Cello Sonata, “extraordinary originality and his Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) decid - Symphony for Strings and Timpani , and Epitaph dedication in their creative pur - ed so. for String Orchestra have become notable addi - suits and a marked capacity for The 57-year-old politician faces up to 12 tions to the international music repertoire. self-direction,” according to the years in prison under two charges — misap - President Serge Sargisian’s office released a foundation’s website. propriation of funds (Article 179 of the statement mourning his death. “I was so deeply “I was in a state of shock Criminal Code) and “legalization of saddened to hear of the passing of renowned com - when I heard the news,” said incomes in a criminal way” (Article 190). poser, USSR and Armenian National Artist Edvard Mazmanian, a professor of biol - Oskanian refused to testify when sum - Mirzoyan. [His music] is filled with optimism and ogy at Caltech, who was tricked moned by the National Security Service on bright philanthropy, is the best manifestation of cre - into taking the award Monday. He and the PAP have described ative spirit of the Armenian people.” announcement call; he thought the current case as an instance of political he was simply being added to a persecution. Many analysts link it with the prescheduled conference call. upcoming presidential election in which “It’s not the kind of thing you Prof. Sarkis Mazmanian Oskanian has been widely tipped as a pos - INSI DE ever expect — I do what I do sible challenger to current President Serge because I love science and it Sargisian. makes me happy, so this is terrific and a nice reward. At the same time, I never Meanwhile, many ask: “Why Oskanian?” think of awards as goals of mine because they seem so unattainable. My goals are The Syria-born and US-educated former to make discoveries, so I was just in absolute disbelief.” minister of foreign affairs was considered to Sponsor A Long before he was named a 2012 MacArthur Fellow, Mazmanian was showing be a rare non-corrupt official in Armenia. the attributes that the foundation seeks to reward, particularly a capacity for self- Former President Robert Kocharian did not fail to emphasize these qualities in his state Teacher direction. As a graduate student in the early 2000s, he decided to stray from the see OSKANIAN, page 2 normal path of study and try something new. Pages 8-9 “I had been studying microbial pathogenesis — or bacteria that make us sick — which is what 99.9 percent of the field of microbiology does to this day,” said Mazmanian. “Toward the end of my PhD, I decided that I wanted to study organ - isms that didn’t necessarily cause disease, but were associated with our bodies. Ten years ago, this was completely on the fringe of science — we knew that the INDEX organisms existed in our intestines and all over our bodies, but had no idea what Arts and Living ...... 11 they were doing.” Armenia ...... 2 Community News...... 4 Today, Mazmanian’s work examines some of the trillions of bacteria living in Editorial ...... 14 human bodies that make up complex communities of microbes and regulate International ...... 3 see BIOLOGIST, page 10 Former Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian 2 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Married to Tradition Russian-Armenian Joint Armenia’s Yezidi at Odds over Government Amendment on Matrimony Campaign Bolsters which the minimum marriage age would cheeks are flushed. The bandana tightly By Gayane Mkrtchyan be 18 versus the former 17. The amend - around her head, little golden globes dec - Armenian Tourism ment, approved in July, is to be debated orating her ears and a long black dress in the autumn session of the National complete the image of a Yezidi woman. YEREVAN (Armenpress) — During a recent press con- YEREVAN (ArmenianNow) — A Assembly. She spoke with confidence and respect ference, Russia’s Ambassador to Armenia Vyacheslav young woman with black velvety hair The chairman of the World Yezidi for their customs and traditions. Kovalenko stated that the Russian-Armenian coopera- and with equally black shiny eyes is Union Aziz Tamoyan has spoken against “A Yezidi woman is predestined to get tive tourism venture will aid tourism and strengthen pouring hot, aromatic coffee into the amendment, saying that the 60,000 married, become a good wife, a good relations between the two countries. flower-patterned cups. The grayish Yezidi community objects to the bill mother, take care of her family, milk Kovalenko stated, “I am hopeful that more and steam going up and disappearing in the since they view an unmarried 18-year-old cows… and respect men. When you see a more [Russian] tourists will visit Armenia and study air veils the melancholy in her eyes; the girl as a spinster and Yezidi girls get mar - man approaching you have to stand up the ancient history and monuments of this country coarse, cracked skin on her hands ried at 15-16. to greet him, you should not eat at the with extraordinary curiosity.” speaks of a hard life. Prime Minister Tigran Sargisian same table with him, that’s respect,” she The ambassador added this campaign will help to “My mother-in-law and I have decided responded to their objections by promis - said, complaining only that girls are not successfully mainstream the development of to abide by our tradition, she is too ing to reconsider the draft law if it, allowed to acquire education. tourism in Armenia. Finally, Kovalenko Armenian young but we gave her [to marriage] any - indeed, would violate the natural life Her granddaughter, 17-year-old Leyla, and Russian connections through a shared past, way,” says the girl’s mother, Sona Aslo, arrangement of the Yezidi community. said that she will break that mentality religious generalities and partnership. 33-year-old mother of four, who lives in (The Yezidi, whose origin is Kurdish, and continue her studies after finishing Chancellor of International Academy of Tourism Aragatsotn province’s Rya Taza Yezidi form the largest ethno-religious minority school. Igor Zorin said that the global community has unin- village, 80 kilometers from Yerevan. “I in Armenia, where many are active as “My family has agreed. I put education tentionally neglected the rich culture of Armenia. got married when I was 15, too, so what? shepherds, living in the highlands. There above traditions. What harm would it be Zorin also emphasized his perspective on the devel- We saw it’s a good family, and what religious belief is a mix of paganism and if a Yezidi woman could become an offi - opment of spiritual tourism in Armenia. Zorin rea- could my daughter have said?” Islam.) cial and represent her community’s soned that once the tourism venture begins, new Aslo moved here from Tbilisi to live While the union leader objects, young rights as well?” she said. venues for tourism will allow Armenia to share its with her mother-in-law after her hus - Yezidi women support the bill because Leyla is the only girl in Rya Taza history and culture with the world. band’s death. Relatives gathered in their they got married at an early age and attending school. courtyard are discussing her 14-year-old have experienced first hand what that There are no women with higher edu - Finland’s Parliament teenage daughter, Ilona’s, engagement means. cation in the village. Young women are details. Seda Mhoyan, 41, says her health conflicted about standing up for their Speaker Visits Armenia Ilona’s uncle, Kyaram Davreshyan, 56, issues are the consequence of early mar - rights and freedoms. who has arrived from Tbilisi for the occa - riage. With her raven-black hair pulled tight - YEREVAN (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Armenian sion, says with bemusement: “What were “Many women become unhappy but ly back, Asya Mhoyan shakes white bed Parliament Speaker Hovik Abrahamyan met with his they thinking when they agreed to this endure it, they don’t get divorced. For sheets and puts them on a line to dry. Finnish counterpart, Eero Heinäluoma, as a part of marriage? She is too young and will have the sake of their father’s reputation they She says she got married at 16, but will the European Conference of Presidents of a hard time. They should have waited at won’t go for it. Plus there is a certain atti - fight for her daughter to let her turn at Parliaments, held under the auspices of the least for a couple of more years to let her tude toward divorced women,” said least 20. Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe mature a little bit.” Mhoyan, who lives in Tbilisi and is now “For 15 years I have not eaten at the (PACE). Yezidi women explain their early mar - visiting her parents in Rya Taza. same table with my father-in-law, he has The two discussed Inter-parliamentary coopera- riages by ethnic customs and traditions. For five years she kept her younger sis - never seen me eat. I have never spoken tion, regional issues and the Azerbaijani murderer Rya Taza village head Ahmad Broyan ter with her in Tbilisi not letting her to him in a loud voice, only whisper,” Ramil Safarov’s case. says that there isn’t a single 20-year old come to Armenia, to prevent an early said Asya, who is now 36. Abrahamyan noted that Armenia attaches great girl left in the village now, they are all marriage. Rya Taza is preparing for Ilona’s importance to development of ties with married. “I kept her until she turned 21 but engagement. Scandinavian countries, particularly enhancing “There is a queue for girls, we want to they wouldn’t let me keep her any fur - Ilona sister, Ela, who is now 12, can high-level political dialogue with Finland. wait until they grow up, but there aren’t ther. My daughter is 14 and I won’t let sense the looming threat: “I I won’t let any, not even spinsters. The youngest her get married until she gains higher them marry me off so early. I am dream - Armenia Blames bride in the village is 16, the youngest education,” she added. ing of becoming a dancer, I keep telling bride-to-be is 14,” says Broyan adding Yezidi men, on the other hand, believe them that I won’t get married,” she said. Hungary for NKR that they have nothing against the gov - that it is due to early marriages that they And in her “no” are signs of rebellion ernment-approved amendment to the don’t have divorces. that might, one day, spark revolution in Complications Republic of Armenia Family Code, by Fifty-nine-year-old Tarlan Hasoyan’s this society wed to archaic customs. YEREVAN (ArmeniaNow) — Armenian president, Serge Sargisian, has again accused Hungary of complicating the protracted conflict over Karabagh by handing over a convicted Azeri axe-murder of an Oskanian Defiant After Being Charged with Money Laundering Armenian to Azerbaijan. During an interview with the Hungarian ATV OSKANIAN, from page 1 tion in Armenia and that people have there will be a situation in which the channel last week, Sargisian, made clear that the ment issued in defense of his longtime great expectations from it, I think it will public will have to vote for Serge responsibility for the bad decision rests entirely minister who is now stripped of his par - only be right if it contests the presiden - Sargisian choosing the lesser of two with Hungarian government and that Armenians liamentary immunity pending the inves - tial election with its own candidate. It is evils,” said Abrahamyan. should not blame the Hungarian people. tigation into an alleged misuse of funds natural that the first choice as candi - The vote in the National Assembly The decision by the Hungarian government to donated to his Civilitas Foundation by date should be the party’s leader Gagik last week to lift Oskanian’s immunity extradite Ramil Safarov to Azerbaijan led to US philanthropist Jon Huntsman Sr. Tsarukyan. However, if Mr. Tsarukyan (64 to 6, with one abstention) revealed Armenia’s suspending its diplomatic ties with back in 2010. decides that he doesn’t want to be a another reality — ex-president Hungary. Several international organizations and Many conclude that this prosecution candidate and the party decides on my Kocharian does not have political sup - governments of throughout the world, including is a warning to the PAP leadership that candidacy, I am ready to assume this port in the current National Assembly, the United States, questioned Hungary’s decision. prosecuting any one of them, including responsibility,” Oskanian stressed. despite numerous publications suggest - Azerbaijani army officer, Safarov, was serving a millionaire businessman Gagik While Tsarukyan is mulling his deci - ing that many of the ruling Republican life sentence in a Hungarian jail for murdering a fel- Tsarukyan, is an easy matter if even a sion, political analysts in Armenia con - Party’s MPs are in fact Kocharian “loy - low Armenian student during a 2004 NATO-spon- “spotless” person like Oskanian has sider several trends in domestic politics alists.” sored English language course in Budapest. On been “exposed.” that have emerged in the wake of the “This shows that Kocharian August 31, he was handed over to Baku where he Tsarukyan has not personally com - Oskanian affair and are likely to influ - shouldn’t yet cherish hopes of person - was quickly pardoned and promoted to the rank of mented on the matter yet. Media ence the February vote. ally returning, everything is being done major, receiving a house and eight years worth of reports allege that Sargisian had put a The main point is that political strug - through second-echelon persons,” back-pay provided by the state. deadline before Tsarukyan to make a gle has shifted from the opposition-gov - leader of the Marxist Party David “The decision of the Hungarian government not final decision this week whether he sup - ernment plane into that involving two Hakobyan said. only jeopardized the Armenian-Hungarian rela- ports the incumbent’s reelection bid or establishment forces, which effectively And Oskanian is widely seen as a sec - tions, which is regretful, but also led to problems in not. broke up an opposition movement ond-echelon person in the current situ - the European Union’s Eastern policy and There is no answer yet, but analysts mounted by former president Levon ation. [Armenia’s] peace talks with Azerbaijan, and, there- believe the only way out of this dilemma Ter-Petrosian five years ago. Independent political analyst Yervand fore, has put the stability of the region at risk,” is that Tsarukyan takes a neutral posi - Former Interior Minister and Mayor Bozoyan thinks the criminal case said Sargisian in the interview. tion, without committing himself to of Yerevan Suren Abrahamyan, mean - against Oskanian may still have a He also stressed that Budapest’s decision has supporting anyone nor having a candi - while, described the current standoff boomerang effect and start to work “in only aggravated the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict date of the party running for president. over Oskanian as a “wonderful job by a Oskanian’s favor” and against the over Nagorno-Karabagh. But this seems unlikely, considering wonderful stage director and play - authorities. “But I don’t want the Armenian people to turn soon after being formally charged on wright.” “With a status of a victim Oskanian, in their back on the Hungarians because of the Monday, Oskanian said in an interview “The opposition-government antago - fact, gets cleansed from his sin of justify - Hungarian government that turned its back on with CivilNet TV that a party like the nism has been reduced to a standoff ing the actions of the authorities during Armenia,” the Armenian leader reiterated. PAP must participate in the elections between two establishment forces. The the March 1, 2008 riots, and it also rais - with its own candidate. public’s full attention has been drawn es his rating to make him a plausible can - “Considering the fact that the PAP to PAP. I think that the logic of the didate to be nominated in the presiden - today is a party that has a solid reputa - whole scenario suggests that in the end tial election,” Bozoyan said. S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Turkish President Says ‘Worst Case’ Unfolding in Syria International News ANKARA (Reuters) — Turkish “The situation in Syria has dramati - Skirmishes on the Syrian side of the President Abdullah Gul said on Monday cally worsened. It is posing serious border have been escalating and it is the “worst-case scenarios” were playing risks to the stability of Syria’s neigh - unclear who fired the shells that have Atatürk Bust in Budapest out in Syria. Turkey vowed to do every - bors and the entire region,” Ban stated crossed into Turkey. thing necessary to protect itself, as its at a conference in Strasbourg, France. Damascus has said it fired on Turkey Splattered with Red army fired back for a sixth day after a The exchanges with Turkey mark the accidentally, but has failed to honor last Paint shell from Syria flew over the border. most serious cross-border violence in week’s pledge to prevent further ord - The revolt against President Bashar Syria’s revolt against Assad, which nance flies, which came after a Syrian BUDAPEST (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Barely two days al-Assad has evolved into a civil war, began in March last year. shell killed five civilians in Akcakale. after it was unveiled on September 29, the bronze which threatens to draw in regional “From now on, every attack on us A Turkish official said that Turkey bust of Kemal Atatürk was doused with red paint by powers. Gul said the violence in Syria, will be responded to immediately. Every only launched its latest retaliatory unknown people in Budapest’s District XIX. could not go on indefinitely and that attack that targets our sovereignty, our strike on Monday after a mortar bomb As politics.hu website reports, the incident came Assad’s fall was inevitable. security of life and property will find its fired from Syria landed in its country - amid continued strained relations between Hungary “The worst-case scenarios are taking response,” Turkish government side province, Hatay. and Armenia over the extradition of Armenian offi- place right now in Syria ... Our govern - spokesman, Bulent Arinc, said after a Further east, Syrian rebel sources in cer Gurgen Markarian’s assassin Ramil Safarov ment is in constant consultation with cabinet meeting. the Raqqa province, which borders The unveiling was preceded by strong protests the Turkish military. Whatever is need - Parliament last week authorized the Akcakale, reported seeing five Turkish from the local Armenian community, while the dis- ed is being done immediately as you deployment of Turkish troops beyond army trucks full of soldiers patrolling trict government had been urged by the Foreign see, and it will continue to be done,” its borders although government offi - the border. Ministry to rethink the plan. Gul said. cials said the move was meant as a Turkey has nearly 100,000 Syrian “There will be a change, a transition deterrent rather than a “war mandate.” refugees in territory camps, has given sooner or later ... It is a must for the “Turkey will decide itself when the sanctuary to rebel leaders and has led Hungary Should Seek international community to take effec - situation necessitates acts mentioned calls for Assad to quit. Redemption By tive action before Syria turns into a big - in the motion the parliament passed Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet ger wreck and further blood is shed, last week. Nobody should think war will Davutoglu stated over the weekend Recognizing Genocide that is our main wish,” he told follow a parliament approval ... but we that a potential leader in an interim reporters in Ankara. are more sensitive about our indepen - Syrian government could be Vice BUDAPEST (Armenpress) — The Hungarian govern- In recent days, Turkey’s armed forces dence and sovereignty than most coun - President Farouq al-Shara. ment’s decision to extradite Safarov has been have bolstered their presence along the tries,” Arinc said. Reports in August said al-Shara, a strongly criticized throughout Hungary. According 900-kilometer (560-mile) border with Turkey’s Dogan news agency said former foreign minister who was to Hungarian journalist and publisher, Gabor Deak, Syria. Turkey has also been responding some 25 warplanes had been sent to a appointed vice president six years ago, few Hungarian officials could actively respond to in kind to gunfire and shelling spilling military base in Diyarbakir, the largest had tried to defect to neighboring protests in Central Square due to internal issues across from the south, where Assad’s city in the southeast. Jordan, but Syrian state media subse - within the country. forces have been battling rebels who Separately, a convoy of military vehi - quently said he had never considered Deak stated, “Tomorrow we will make a visit to control swathes of territory. cles, including tanks loaded on trucks, leaving. Gurgen Markarian’s tomb and pay a tribute to his According to Turkey’s military web - traveled to Akcakale on Monday for “The opposition is inclined to accept memory. We have initiated this trip, but our opinion site, Chief of Staff Gen. Necdet Ozel, border deployment. these names. Farouq al-Shara has the is the same with the majority of Hungarians.” traveled south to Adana in order to Fighting deeper within Syria also ability to understand the system of the Citing the Hungarian court’s decision, Gabor inspect the region patrolled by Turkey’s intensified on Monday. last 20 to 30 years,” Davutoglu told the Ivanyi explained that the court had underscored the Second Army, which protects the bor - Syrian government forces advanced state broadcaster TRT. importance of having the convicted serve the entire- der with Syria. for the first time in months into the “Farouq al-Shara did not get ty of his sentence. According to surveys within the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon rebel-held Khalidiya district and in the involved in the recent incidents, the country, Hungarians are embarrassed by the out- said the escalation of the conflict along besieged central city of Homs. massacre, in a very wise and consci - come and want to restore relations with Armenia. the Turkey-Syria border, as well as the “They have occupied buildings that entious attitude. But perhaps there is “Regretfully, Hungary has not yet recognized the impact of the crisis on Lebanon, are we were stationed in and we had to nobody who knows the system better Armenian Genocide by Turkey when millions of peo- “extremely dangerous.” evacuate,” a rebel fighter told Reuters. than al-Shara.” ple became the victim of it. Now it is time for Hungary to think about the correction of its mis- takes and redeeming its fault,” noted Hungarian historian and political analyst Zoltan Biro. Archbishop Baliozian Laid to Rest in Australia Turkish-Armenian FUNERAL, from page 1 bor, the New South Wales Jewish The state of New South Wales is Community Renews Plea Board of Deputies CEO Vic Alhadeff home for over 40,000 Armenians, It was the one major regret Baliozian had noted that “Baliozian’s life and career mostly from the Middle East, with a For Education Reform once voiced to this writer. were personified by his commitment large contingent from the Holy Land, ”I grew up in a city of bells,” he to a society based on the principles of and Jerusalemite Armenians are pro - ISTANBUL (PanARMENIAN.Net) — Representatives said wistfully, “but can hear them no respect and harmony.” foundly concerned over the current of the Turkish-Armenian community have renewed more.” He noted Armenians and Jews situation in the Holy City, with the their plea for education reform for children of In Aleppo where he was born, in share a number of key and core Armenian Patriarchate in relative Armenian immigrant workers, who are not consid- 1946, and particularly in Jerusalem themes, like the importance of family, limbo following the incapacitation of ered eligible to attend state schools. where he studied for the priesthood, the value of culture and tradition, the its Patriarch, Archbishop Torkom Officials of the Gedikpasha Armenian Protestant his daily routine would be punctually trauma of genocide and the need at Manoogian. Church, which opened its doors last year to educate punctuated by the tolling of bells, call - all times for acceptance of diversity The presence of Archbishop 84 students whose parents are undocumented immi- ing the Christian faithful to prayer or and celebration of difference. Nourhan Manoogian (no relation) is grants from Armenia, are still awaiting a response announcing a holy feast. And, rarely, Among the flood of condolences therefore intended to give a clear mes - to their ongoing grievances. broadcasting the mournful news of pouring in, Hovhannessian, who is sage to expatriate Armenians, a mes - The church officials are striving to provide edu- the death of a man of the cloth. director of the publications depart - sage of hope and reassurance. cation for 100 students this school year under dif- Early in his youth, Baliozian had ment of the Mother Church in For the Armenians in Australia, the ficulty, facing many legal and physical challenges. felt stirrings of a spiritual yearning Yerevan, Armenia, had brought from presence of Joe Hockey, deputy leader The classes are held in the basement of the church and this led him to the city of Christ Catholicos Karekin a personal mes - of the federal opposition party, and and some of the makeshift classrooms have no where at age of 22, he was ordained a sage of expressing profound loss and Gladys Berejiklian, State Transport doors. The classrooms used to be divided by cur- celibate priest, the first rung in the pain at Baliozian’s “untimely” death. Minister, who had both arrived in tains before board separators were recently ladder that would elevate him to the The catholicos dwelt on Baliozian’s church without fanfare, can mean installed. rank of archbishop. strong commitment to his church and only one thing: no matter how lofty Church officials and families are frustrated that It was the late Catholicos of All his nation, and his passion for the our social or political standing, no nothing has changed since last year as they tried to Armenians, Vazken I, who picked him encouragement and nurturing of ecu - matter where who have become, address the fact that “guest student status” does to head the Diocese of the Armenian menical relations and Christian broth - whenever two of us meet anywhere in not correspondent to the needs of Armenian immi- Church of Australia and New Zealand. erhood, and his love and courage, in the world, in the words of Pulitzer grants’ students. The parents of these Armenian Baliozian’s keen interest in ecu - the face of adversity. Prize winner William Saroyan, see if children were concerned because guest student sta- menical affairs catapulted him to the Pain was a topic Manougian was to we shall not create, and perpetuate, a tus would not be enough for their children, who post of first president of the National dwell on in his eulogy. new Armenia. needed proof of their education in Armenia, where Council of Churches in Australia “People ask what is truth,” he said. And the presence of the heads of they plan to return. (NCCA). “Truth is pain.” Christian churches at the funeral cer - Armenian community representatives describe According to the NCCA general sec - But in the face of pain, Baliozian emony, carries its own different mes - granting “guest student status” as a deceptive move retary, the Rev. Tara Curlewis, displayed exemplary endurance, and sage, aimed not only at those in atten - aimed to silence the community. “Neither we nor Baliozian “was held in high esteem was able to steer the boat of the dance, but at the world as well: “The any family are happy with that. We call on the state both in Australia and around the church with skill and determination, Christian church is one. We all stand to give our children a valid certificate or a valid world for his wisdom and commitment during the many stormy seasons it together in Christ.” diploma,” one said. to Christian unity, interreligious dia - had to navigate through. William Saroyan once described Turkey’s new academic year has begun for around logue and peace building.” Manougian’s arrival in Sydney, Armenians as a tribe of unimportant 17 million students and 800,000 teachers, with a Her sentiments were echoed by after a grueling 20 hour flight, is of people whose history is forgotten. He new education system that increases the duration of other Christian church representa - particular significance and relevance, forgot that it is people like Archbishop compulsory education from an uninterrupted eight tives who dwelt on Baliozian’s with its implied confirmation of the Aghan who are the ones who perpet - years to 12 years. “unshakable faith and valor.” importance Jerusalem plays in the uate our history. And speaking for their close neigh - heart of Armenians all over the world. It will never be forgotten. 4 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

Women’s Fund of Scholars to Participate Long Island to Honor In Academic Conference Artemis Nazerian and To Mark 125th Arda Haratunian Anniversary of SDHP BURBANK, Calif. — The Social Democrat JERICHO, N.Y. — Artemis Nazerian and Arda Hunchakian Party (SDHP) is the longest serv - Nazerian Haratunian, community leaders and ing Armenian political party. Founded in an inspiring mother/daughter team, will be Geneva in 1887, the SDHP has played an honored at the Women’s Fund of Long Island important role at every stage of the Armenian (WFLI) 18th Annual Women Achievers Against nation’s history. the Odds Breakfast on Thursday, October 25. An academic conference scheduled for This annual event draws nearly 650 attendees October 27 at the Fletcher Jones Foundation as it celebrates the accomplishments of a select Auditorium of Woodbury University in group of Long Island-based women who have Burbank will mark the 125th Anniversary of made outstanding contributions not only to the SDHP. The conference is organized by the their industries, but also to their communities. Armenian Educational Benevolent Union “Artemis and Arda’s commitment to public (AEBU) and Nor Serount Cultural Association service and volunteerism has spanned two gen - (NSCA) and co-sponsored by the Richard erations of work in education, government and Hovannisian Endowed Chair in Modern the private sector,” said Stacey Scarpone, exec - Armenian History at UCLA, the Armenian utive director of the Women’s Fund of Long Research Center at the University of Michigan, Island. “They have worked individually and in Dearborn; Woodbury University and partnership with organizations in their commu - the National Association for Armenian Studies nities and as a strong mother/daughter team and Research (NAASR). A host of historians, raising their families. In the process, they have academics and scholars will conduct a day- positively touched many lives.” long review of the political, intellectual and Artemis Nazerian, who together with her late social history of the Armenian people, as ana - Volunteers helped patients. husband, Hagop, raised two daughters, Ani and lyzed through the history of the Hunchakian Arda, has had a distinguished career in the Party and many of its prominent members fields of education and music. Born in Beirut, who shaped it. Lebanon to parents who had fled the Armenian The following is the list of scholars who will Genocide, she graduated from the American participate in the Conference, and the titles of University of Beirut and was awarded a full AMAA’s Fourth the papers they will be presenting: scholarship from the Institute of International •Rev. Dr. Abel Manoukian, “The Founders: Education to pursue her graduate studies in Formative Period as University Students” education at Friends World College. The schol - •Prof. Kevork Bardakjian (University of arship, which also included studies at the New Annual Medical Michigan, Ann Arbor), “Ideology and England Conservatory of Music, involved an Literature: The Mother Party and Some of Her 11,000-mile, racially-integrated study tour of dif - Literary Children” •Prof. Gerard Libaridian (University of Mission to Armenia Michigan, Ann Arbor, retired), “At the Origins of the Social Democratic Hunchakian Party: Problems and Paradoxes” PARAMUS, N.J. — This June, the medical mission team of the Armenian •Prof. Vahram Shemmassian (California Medical Association of America (AMAA), led by Dr. Al Phillips and his wife, State University, Northridge), “Absolute Sue, returned to Armenia for its fourth year. Monarchy: The Hunchakian Revolutionary The mission team of 37 worked in ambulatory clinics in Vanadzor and Episode in Armenian Musa Dagh during the Stepanavan. The team consisted of seven physicians, a chiropractor, a phar - 1890s” macist, a registered nurse, 20 ancillary workers and seven Armenian transla - •Dr. Garabet Moumdjian (independent his - tors. The team used the Vanadzor Evangelical Church and the AMAA Social torian), “1895 to 1914: The Relations of Service Center in Stepanavan for their medical facilities. Patients came from Armenian Political/Revolutionary local neighborhoods and many were transported to the clinic by bus from out - Organizations with the Young Turks” Artermis Nazerian, left, and her daughter, Arda lying villages. •Prof. Hratch Tchilingirian (Oxford Haratunian Over the course of the week, 917 patients were seen. This included adults University), “From End of Empires to the and children. Many of the patients had been seen in previous years and relayed Global Age: Issues and Questions in Armenian that the mission’s prior treatments had improved the quality of their lives. ferent educational philosophies across the east - Political Ideology and Strategy” Common conditions included hypertension, diabetes and musculoskeletal ern United States. •Prof. Richard Hovannisian (University of problems. Purchased medications from donations allowed for an extensive Professionally, Nazerian was a school admin - California, Los Angeles), “The Hunchakian pharmacy. Patients received all their drugs without charge. The group had istrator, most recently serving as assistant prin - Party and the First Republic of Armenia” enough medications to supply patients with a year’s worth of treatment. Also, cipal at St. Demetrios Greek American School •Aram Arkun (independent historian), “The reading glasses were distributed. While patients were waiting to be seen, the in Astoria. She also spent several years teaching role of the Hunchakian party in post WWI nurse educator gave lectures on various medical issues. Donated toothbrush - elementary school and music, and was also an Cilicia” es and other oral hygiene items were distributed and patients were taught how Adjunct Professor at Brooklyn College in the •Prof. Ara Dostourian (emeritus professor to maintain good dental health. education and music departments. She served of history, University of West Georgia), “The During the clinic, patients were also encouraged to attend church services. on the Boards of Directors of the Armenian Labor & Political Work of the SDHP of the The medical mission team has committed to return to Armenia for the fifth Center at Columbia University, St. Nersess Eastern US in the Context of the Worldwide year in June 2013. To help, visit the AMAA website (www.amaa.org). Seminary and Armenia Fund USA, as well as on Hunchakian Movement (1890-2000)” the grants review committee of the WFLI. •Dr. Vartan Matiossian (Armenian National Arda Nazerian Haratunian is a strategic com - Education Committee), “The Hunchakian munications advisor to public and private com - Party in the Armenian Communities of South panies. She also teaches at Queens College in America : An Outline of its Early History” its honors Business and Liberal Arts program, •Prof. Ara Sanjian (University of Michigan, and Columbia University, where she helped Dearborn), “Khrushchev, Karabagh and the found the master’s program in Strategic Hunchakians: A Documented Journey in the Communications. She and her husband, World of Oral History in-Progress” Stephen, have two children, Kenar and Armen. Seating to the Conference is limited. The She most recently served as senior policy advi - organizers encourage all who wish to attend sor to former Nassau County Executive Tom to pre-register at [email protected] Suozzi, managing large-scale initiatives related Admission is free, however a $100 donation to government efficiency, health and human will offer the donors confirmed registration to services and regional planning. She joined his the conference (lunch included), an invitation administration in 2003 from Citigroup, where to a dinner with the scholars, to be held on the she was managing director of Global Corporate night of the Conference at Phoenicia Communications for its Corporate & Restaurant in Glendale, and preferred seating Investment Bank. She previously was director to the SDHP 125th Anniversary Celebration of the New York press office of former New scheduled for Nov. 18th at the Glendale High York Governor Mario Cuomo. The mission to Armenia members School Auditorium. Haratunian is a member of the Central Board The conference will be web-broadcast live.For more information visit see WOMEN, page 10 www.sdhp125.org S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS

Assembly’s Distinguished Humanitarian Award Presented to Armenian Church Elizabeth Agbabian, Flora Dunaians and Savey Tufenkian Bazaar Set for WASHINGTON — Hirair Hovnanian, chair - To express their grat - man of the Board of Trustees of the Armenian itude and speaking on October 20 Assembly of America, presented the behalf of all three Distinguished Humanitarian Award to three women, Flora BELMONT, Mass. — The annual Fall individuals: Elizabeth Agbabian, Flora Dunaians explained Harvest Bazaar returns to Belmont on Dunaians and Savey Tufenkian at the how they came togeth - Saturday, October 20 from noon to 8 p.m. Assembly’s 40th Anniversary Gala last month er in the mid 1970s in the Nahigian Fellowship Hall of the in downtown Los Angeles. when they were asked First Armenian Church, located at 380 Introducing the trio, Assembly Board by the late Dr. J. Concord Ave. Member Peter Kezirian, who was master of Michael Hagopian of Enjoy Armenian delicacies prepared on ceremonies for the gala dinner, stated, “we the Armenian Film site. Food is available in freezable packag - have benefitted from their leadership” Foundation to chair a ing for later use. Traditional Armenian because they are a “foundational component banquet which would pastries and coffee will also be available of our society and the Assembly. They have change their lives for - on the day of the bazaar. taught their generation as well as future gen - ever. This was the Traditional Armenian food will be pre - erations the meaning of giving and the joy of “beginning of their pared all day for consumption there or in sharing,” added Kezirian as he welcomed journey together,” to-go packages. Vegetarian options are available. them and Hirair Hovnanian to the podium for Dunaians recalled. Elizabeth and Mihran Agbabian with family the presentation of the award. Speaking about their Dried fruits and nuts fresh from farms Bestowed upon them for their compassion, work with the in California are available for holiday bak - generosity and dedicated service to the Assembly, Dunaians stated that the Assembly is “By honoring Elizabeth, Flora and Savey, ing needs. Pistachios, walnut halves, dried Armenian people, the award read “for your “our voice in Washington, DC.” With the dev - who come from different backgrounds, apricots, raisins and more are available in passionate commitment to all benevolent astating earthquake in Armenia in 1988 fol - denominations and countries, the Assembly bulk, offered by the church’s Benevolence efforts.” Hovnanian commended their out - lowed by Armenia’s independence in 1991, they also upholds its founding principle to bring Committee. Sales benefit orphans in standing dedication and decades of service to formed a bond that kept them “together with diverse elements of the community together Armenia and Lebanon and help to fund the entire community stating, “You have set determination that we are committed to help - for the betterment of the Armenian people,” the church’s donations to local food an example for people to follow in your foot - ing Armenia and all organizations, be they reli - stated Assembly Executive Director Bryan banks. steps.” gious, political, educational or social.” Ardouny. Attendees can browse through The Marketplace for Christmas gifts or hard- to-find household items. New or “gently used” paperbacks and hardcover books as well as children’s books and games and favorite “attic treasures,” are available at great prices. Supervised children’s activi - ties are available (a small donation is requested). The Fall Harvest Bazaar will take place rain or shine and all are welcome to attend. Information is available through the church office or by visiting the church’s website, www.firstarmenianchurch.org. Savey and Ralph Tufenkian with friends Flora and George Dunaians with family and friends 6 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Lowell Veterans Award $8,000 In Scholarships

protocol had it, each student presented words By Tom Vartabedian of gratitude upon their presentation. Over these past 22 years, a total of 144 high school graduates have been endowed with LOWELL, Mass. — Since 1990, members of scholarships. the Sam Manoian Post #1, Armenian-American “It’s a tradition we hope to continue for a life - Veterans, have done more than march in time,” said Commander Richard Juknavorian. parades, conduct graveside services and donate “The future of our younger generation is a mat - Easter baskets to children. They have con - ter we take seriously. Anything we can do to tributed to the educational welfare of enhance that goal will be encouraged.” Merrimack Valley and beyond, to the tune of According to Scholarship Chairman George more than $100,000. Manuelian, many recipients have graduated col - This year’s distribution of $8,000 was divided lege, started careers and showed their gratitude among eight students. Honored were: Kevin by contributing to the Menas Boghosian Doherty, Merrissa Daigle, Dannielle and Scholarship Fund. Christopher Seifel, Victoria Kulungian, Olivia “The moral responsibilities they have exer - Barberian, Christina Parnagian and Lucas cised are exemplary,” said Manuelian. “It’s nice Takessian. to know that we’ve contributed to their welfare More than 200 guests turned out October 6 with scholarship aid. We try to make it very per - to applaud the recipients during a dinner-dance sonal. Parents and siblings become part of the celebration.” at Sts. Vartanantz Church in Chelmsford. As Lowell Armenian-American Veterans of Sam Manoian Post #1 donated $8,000 in scholarships October 6 during a dinner-dance at Sts. Vartanantz Church, Chelmsford. From left, Commander Richard Juknavorian and Acting Chairman John Balian make presentations to Lucine Seifel, represent - ing Dannielle and Christopher Seifel; Olivia Barberian; Merrissa Daigle; Victoria Kulungian; Lucas Takessian and Kevin Doherty. Missing from photo is Christina Parnagian. (Tom Vartabedian photo)

The group’s history dates back to 1947 when Members conduct special graveside services Armenian-American Veterans of World War II for veterans and have never missed a Memorial gathered at the Pine Street Potato Chip Day Parade or Armenian Genocide commemo - Company on Gorham Street and elected Menas ration. Boghosian as their first commander. In 1975, the organization purchased a build - The numbers grew enough to become offi - ing and named it the Sam Manoian Post, hon - cially chartered and in 1961, they joined the oring a devoted past commander. Ten years Veterans’ Council of Lowell. later, they erected a monument dedicated to Over the decades, they have served the Armenian settlers who became a vital part of Armenian-American community with diligence the Greater Lowell fabric. and pride, volunteering at Veterans’ hospitals, “To all our deceased members, their sacrifice assisting the indigent, sponsoring Christmas par - will never be forgotten,” added Juknavorian. ties for children and donating Easter baskets and “We dedicate our efforts to both the living and Christmas toys to children. Roses are distributed the dead. By honoring our youth, we’re invest - after church services on Mother’s Day. ing in the future of this country.”

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — On Saturday, October 6, during Harvard Square’s Oktoberfest, Sheriff Peter Koutoujian and volunteers stopped by to say hello to friends at the Holy Trinity booth serving Bible Study Classes kebab and other treats. Do You Need God in Your Life? We Would Like To Invite You To Come And Join With Us and Attend Our ‘Excellent’ Bible Study Classes. Classes are held on the 2nd and 3rd Tuesdays of each month in the social hall of the church and led by GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E Rev. Dr. Avedis Boynerian James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Mark J. Giragosian PROGRAM Funeral Counselors Social Time: Coffee, chorag and cheese 6:30-7:00 P.M. 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 www.giragosianfuneralhome.com Bible Study Class 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. Armenian Memorial Church, 32 Bigelow Avenue, Watertown, MA Call us at 617-923-0498 and let us know if you are planning to attend. Telephone (617) 924-7400 You will be greatly enriched. Aram Bedrosian Funeral Home, Inc. Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 MARION BEDROSIAN 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN Nardolillo Funeral Home Est. 1906 John K. Najarian, Jr. Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 www.nardolillo.com ADVERTISE IN THE MIRROR S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS The Armenian American Wellness Center Wins ‘Public Confidence Award’ for Excellence in Women’s Health

By Negar M. Joy

WASHINGTON — The Armenian American Wellness Center became the first recipient of the 2012 Public Confidence Award for Excellence in Women’s Health, presented by the National Council of Public Confidence in Medical Services in Armenia. The event took place at the Aram Khachaturian Hall in Yerevan. Khachanush Hakobyan, the executive director, accepted the award on behalf of the Wellness Center in front of a packed hall of 2,000 spectators and TV cameras, broadcasting nationwide. The Wellness Center

The Executive Director, Khachanush Hakobyan (center), along with some of the medical staff, accept the Public Confidence Award on behalf of the Wellness Center.

cine, ophthalmology, dentistry and public health. Since its establishment in 1997, the Wellness vide the Wellness Center’s medical and adminis - This is the first year that women’s health was also Center has dedicated itself to preventive care and trative staff with the best available equipment, lat - considered. Dr. Ara Babloyan, chairman of the the early and accurate detection of cancer est technological advances and many opportuni - Parliament’s Subcommittee on Health Issues, through the latest western technology. ties for professional exchanges between Armenia presented the award to Hakobyan. However, the Wellness Center’s state-of-the-art and the West. AACA regularly arranges for the The recipients of the awards were chosen based facility is not just the premier facility for Armenian staff to receive continued medical and adminis - The Public Confidence Award presented to the on interviews and surveys conducted by the women and families; it has also become the most trative training in the latest Western approaches Wellness Center for Excellence in Women’s Health council among the public and through question - desired workplace for the country’s medical pro - both on site in Armenia and in the US and naires distributed at work places, public libraries, fessionals. It promotes transparency and account - Europe. For guidance in this area, AACA draws community centers and schools. ability, access to the latest Western technology upon the expertise of its US Medical Advisory was recognized for its quality care and innovative “The women of Armenia have been putting and equipment, and the opportunity to receive Board comprising 14 volunteer health care pro - approaches using the latest Western technology their trust in us every single day for the past 15 regular specialized training, thus attracting some fessionals and consultants. and expertise in delivering women’s health ser - years,” said Hakobyan her during acceptance of the country’s top professionals. “We are very grateful to our Medical Advisory vices to the people of Armenia. speech. Daily ,100-125 patients receive services Armenian American Cultural Association Board, the individual doctors, nurses, engineers, This award, established two years ago, repre - from one or more of the Wellness Center’s eight (AACA), the founding organization and the main business men and women who have chosen help - sents the public’s choice for excellence in medi - departments. US sponsor of the Wellness Center, strives to pro - ing Armenia a priority during their on and off hours,” said Rita Balian, president and CEO of AACA and Founder of the Wellness Center. “We are also indebted to the institutions with which these dedicated volunteers are associated, which have joined the humanitarian effort to make Armenia a healthier and more health-conscious nation,” continued Balian, who herself has volun - teered 16 hours of her days each and every day for 15 years for the life-saving work of the Center. Receiving the Public Confidence Award crys - tallizes the role of the Wellness Center in revolu - tionizing the health care delivery system in Armenia. “There is no better recognition than the one coming from those who are being served,” said Hranush Hakobyan, co-founder of the Wellness Center, now also the Minister of Diaspora in Armenia.

The Public Confidence Award Certificate presented to the Wellness Center along with the trophy. 8 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS A First-Hand Look at TCA’s Sponsor a

By Inga Petrosyan

YEREVAN (Azg) — The Sponsor a Teacher Program of the Tekeyan Cultural Association (TCA) has provided financial aid for 12 years to teachers in schools in Armenia and Artsakh bearing the name of poet Vahan Tekeyan. Financial aid is given thanks to the fundraising organized by the TCA of the United States and Canada. There are five schools named for Vahan Tekeyan in Armenia and Artsakh, located in Yerevan, the village of Garbi, Stepanavan, Gumri and Berdzor (Karabagh). This year, the time for the realization of the program coincid - ed with the day before Teacher’s Day, celebrat - ed annually here on October 1. A total of $41,600 was donated this year to the teachers and workers of five schools. The program anticipates aiding 293 teachers and 69 people from the staff serving the schools in 2012. Teachers and employees of the Stepanavan, Garbi, Yerevan, Gumri and Berdzor schools have already received the aid. The visit to Yerevan’s School No. 92 took place on September 24. The school was visited by Gayane Muradyan, director of TCA’s Armenia office and coordinator of the program in Yerevan, and Alis Marashlian from Washington, DC. Muradyan said, “Every year

Third grade students of the Gumri Tekeyan School

our [TCA] friends from the diaspora, when they are in Armenia, participate in the program of visits to the schools.” Tsovinar Mardanyan, the principal of Yerevan’s School, praised the program and Alis Marashlian and Garbi school teacher spoke about how it has changed the school. Garine Hagopyan “Perhaps because every year the school receives assistance from the Tekeyan Cultural continued on next page

Gumri school special needs teachers receive their donations.

Third grade student Anahit Manoukyan recites a poem at the Yerevan school. At the front entrance of the newly-constructed Tekeyan School of Stepanavan S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 Teacher Program in Armenia/Artsakh

Gumri school students during physical education class From left, Alis Marashlian, Berdzor biology teacher Heriknaz Kasparyan and Principal Anahit Kosakyan

from previous page 1956, and it was renamed for Vahan Tekeyan in Association, it is already different from other 1986. At present, it has 450 students. This year, schools. In addition to this, every year, with the a partial renovation was carried out and a new assistance of the TCA, 10-day-long camps are teachers’ training school which has a Tekeyan organized for the relaxation of the children in corner was opened. Part of the renovation work the summer camps, again thanks to fundrais - was conducted through the efforts of the TCA ing,” she said. and with the direct assistance of the principal. She stressed the one issue still needing to be On Monday, all the teachers of the school, 58 fixed in the school was its heating, which is people, as well as 14 people from the service anticipated to be solved in 2012. staff, received funds from Tekeyan. Students Yerevan’s School No. 92 was founded in presented a small concert for the guests. Muradyan expressed the hope that the Sponsor a Teacher Program would be ongoing. The principal of Berdzor (Karabagh) School, Anahit Kosakian, said, “When your work is appreciated, you dedicate yourself in a special way.” The staff of the school has increased to 28 teachers and 16 workers because of student body has doubled by natural expansion and because seven Armenian families from Kamishli, Syria, have settled in that region. Marashlian is herself an educator and this year took on the responsibility of delivering the A sign on a Berdzor school wall says “Your health is in your hands.” money for the teachers. As a teacher and a spe - cialist in public health, she understands the important work of teachers and the need to a teacher. After going to school there, at the age reward them. of 14, she moved to Boston and studied public From left, Gayane Muradyan, Alis Marashlian Marashlian was born in Iraq and moved to health in the United States. and Gumri School chemistry teacher Lena Argentina as a child, where her father was the At present, Marashlian teaches in a hospital Atoyan director of the Armenian section of the AGBU for immigrants, where patients are from differ - Marie Manoogian School, and her mother was ent age groups and her task is to convey to

Sponsor a Teacher in Armenia and Karabagh 2012

Since its inception in 2001, TCA’s ‘Sponsor a Teacher’ program has raised over $518,000 and reached out to 4,064 teachers and school workers in Armenia and Karabagh.

From left, Alis Marashlian and Stepanavan £ school biology teacher Ludmila Barseghian at the biology classroom K Yes, I want to sponsor teachers in Armenia and Karabagh to continue helping them to educate the children, our future leaders. I would like to have the teacher’s name and address. them information about healthcare. This was not the first time that she had visited Armenia. K $160 K $ 320 K $ 480 K other $ ————————— In addition to the Sponsor a Teacher Program, Name she has volunteered in projects in Artsakh. Address Marashlian said she was particularly impressed by the fact that students in the Garbi City State Zip code school came back years later to be teachers at Tel: their alma mater, in order to help their com - munity. As for the Stepanavan school, she said Make check payable to: Tekeyan Cultural Association – Memo: Sponsor a Teacher 2010 Mail your check with this form to: it was important that inclusive education was already being realized there. TCA Sponsor a Teacher And what are her impressions of Armenia and 5326 Valverde, Houston, TX 77056 Artsakh and the changes she has seen there? Your donation is Tax Deductible. The young teacher only replies with a smile, “I am optimistic.” 10 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Caltech Biologist Sarkis Mazmanian Named MacArthur Fellow ST. JAMES 65TH ANNUAL BAZAAR!

BIOLOGIST, from page 1 Biology and Chemistry. “His research has had processes like digestion and immunity. His main an important impact in making the connection focus is to understand how “good” bacteria pro - between personal hygiene and the immune sys - mote human health — work that has trans - tem, and even neurological diseases like formed a quickly-evolving field of research that autism.” is investigating the connection between gut When the award announcement went public, bacteria and their relationship to both disease Mazmanian was in Armenia, his native home - Friday, October 12, 2012 (10 a.m.- 9 p.m.) and health. land, teaching a one-week course on host-micro - Saturday, October 13, 2012 (10 a.m.- 9 p.m.) His research helped lay the groundwork for bial interaction to PhD students at a molecular the Human Microbiome Project (HMP), an ini - biology institute. He travels to the country once tiative of the National Institutes of Health a year to volunteer his services. The timing, he that aims to characterize, for the first time, said, couldn’t be better, as he hopes to use ARMENIAN FOOD, DELICACIES & PASTRIES! “the microbial communities found at several some of the prize money to develop an interna - (Served from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.) different sites on the human body, including tional educational outreach program. Shish Kebab, Chicken Kebab, Losh Kebab, Kheyma and Eetch! nasal passages, oral cavities, skin, gastroin - “I think that when you have a windfall like testinal tract and urogenital tract, and to ana - this, the least you can do is help people who are Boereg, Manti, Yalanchi, Porov Kufteh, Tourshi, Choereg, lyze the role of these microbes in human in need,” said Mazmanian, who credits the Cream & Nut Khadaif, Bourma, Baklava & more! health and disease,” according to the HMP members of his lab for his research success. “In website. His laboratory was the first to many countries, they are in need of education demonstrate that specific gut bacteria direct and resources, like lab equipment, text books, BOOTHS AND VENDORS! the development of the mammalian immune you name it. It would be terrific if I could use ,QFOXGLQJ WKH )DUPHU«V 0DUNHW 6LOHQW $XFWLRQ $UPHQLDQ ,WHPV system and provide protection from intestinal the money to help advance science in countries the popular Attic Treasures, and vendor booths! diseases. This means, he said, that fundamen - where there is hardship.” tal aspects of health are absolutely dependent Mazmanian received his bachelor’s degree in ® on microbial interaction within our bodies. In 1995 and his PhD in microbiology in 2002, Apple Raffle! KidZone! addition, he said that many disorders whose both from UCLA. Following a postdoctoral fel - Win a Macbook Air, iPads, Pumpkin Decorating! incidences are increasing in Western coun - lowship at Harvard, he joined the Caltech fac - Clown and balloon animals! tries — such as inflammatory bowel disease, ulty as an assistant professor in 2006. In 2012, iTouches and more! Games! & More!!! multiple sclerosis and asthma — involve a com - he was promoted to professor of biology. In $5 per ticket, 6 for $25 mon immunologic defect believed to be 2011, Mazmanian was the recipient of a caused by the absence of intestinal bacteria. Burroughs Welcome Fund Award for research An understanding of the beneficial immune in the pathogenesis of infectious disease, and in $100 RAFFLE! Sponsorship & Volunteer responses promoted by gut bacteria may lead 2008 he was awarded a Searle Scholarship and Grand Prize - $5,000. Opportunities Available! to the development of natural therapeutics for was named one of Discover magazine’s “20 Three $1,000 and Please contact Co-Chairs immunologic and perhaps neurologic dis - Best Brains Under 40,” which highlighted four $500 prizes! Nancy Kassabian at (781) 322-0029 eases, said Mazmanian. young innovators in science. or Sandy Raphalian at (781) 762-6465. “This award is extremely well-deserved — This year’s crop of 23 Fellows includes Popular $2 Raffle! Sarkis has revolutionized the way we think stringed-instrument bow maker Benoit Rolland about the interactions between microorganisms and mathematician Maria Chudnovsky; St. James Armenian Church and people,” said Stephen L. Mayo, William K. Mazmanian joins the ranks of Caltech’s previ - 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472 (617) 923-8860 [email protected] Bowes Jr. Foundation Chair of Caltech’s ous MacArthur Fellows, including 2010 Division of Biology, and Bren Professor of awardee John Dabiri.

Women’s Fund of Long Island to Honor Artemis Nazerian and Arda Haratunian WOMEN, from page 4 aging directors of Deutsche Bank, and two of the Armenian General Benevolent Union and young women, Laura Perez, an East Hampton is actively involved in a other community activ - High School senior and Kalifa Lillian Davy, a St. ities, including volunteering with the church on Anthony’s High School junior. They will each both projects at the Diocesan level and also receive the 2012 Shapiro-McCormick Young teaching high school level at her local parish. Woman Leader Award. She is a board member of The Energeia “We are thrilled to be honoring such an out - Partnership, an academy for regional steward - standing group of women this year,” added ship, and volunteers with a number of Long Scarpone. “They exemplify what the Women’s Island organizations, including WFLI, Erase Fund of Long Island stands for and are excep - RACISM and the Manhasset Women’s Coalition tional role models for women and girls across Against Breast Cancer, where she chairs its Long Island.” high school research scholarship committee. For more information on the Women Among the other honorees this year are Achievers Against the Odds breakfast or to pur - Becky Creavin and Patricia Janco-Tupper, man - chase tickets, email [email protected].

St. Gregory Church Fall Fair Set for October 27 NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — On October 27, prize. St. Gregory Church of Merrimack Valley will Both the eat-in and the take-out menus are combine its annual fall fair with a Halloween available. theme. There will be a country store, Armenian pas - The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 tries, Armenian gift table, raffles and other p.m. inside Jaffarian Hall, 158 Main St., and is games of chance, as well as a white elephant open to the public. table. Children 10 and younger arriving in costume For further information, contact the church and accompanied by a parent will receive a office.

Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a Edward D. Jamie, Jr.

LicensedFinuNneweYrorak landCNhewaJperseey l 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside, NY 11361 Service any hour, (718) 224-2390 or toll any distance free (888) 224-6088 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 Arts & Living

Armenian Studies Pianist Arghamanyan Program Will Open To Perform Recitals in 500th Anniversary of Boston, Philadelphia Armenian Printing And New York Exhibit at Fresno State FRESNO — On September 17, By Ara Arakelian Armenian Studies Program director, Prof. Barlow Der Mugrdechian, announced the opening of an exhibit on “The 500th BOSTON — When she takes the stage at the Anniversary of Armenian Printing,” to be Calderdwood Hall of the Isabella Stewart displayed in Fresno State Henry Madden Gardner Museum in Boston on Sunday, Library. October 21, Nareh Arghamanyan would be The Armenian Studies Program will making her professional debut. It won’t be the host a reception from 2 to 5 p.m. on 23-year-old pianist’s first concert in Boston, Sunday, October 14, on the second floor however. She played a recital in 2004 at age 14 of the Henry Madden Library, to mark at the Longy School of Music in Cambridge, the official opening of the exhibit. The under the auspices of Hamazkayin Armenian reception is free and open to the public; Stamps designed for the Republic of Armenia Cultural and Educational Association. In addi - refreshments will be served. tion, in 2008, after capturing the first prize at The exhibit is co-sponsored by the the coveted International Montreal Music Armenian Studies Program, the College Competition, she performed with the Boston of Arts and Humanities and the Henry Pops for the Armenian Night at the Pops. Madden Library. New Exhibition at ALMA Born in Vanadzor, Armenia, Arghamanyan Special guest speaker for the day will has played the piano since the age of 5. Three be Dr. Kevork Bardakjian, Marie years later, she began her studies with Manoogian Professor of Modern Puts Spotlight Alexander Gurgenov at the Tchaikovsky Music Armenian School for Talented Children in Yerevan. In Language and 2004 she was the youngest student to be admit - Literature at On Arshag Fetvadjian the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, WATERTOWN, Mass. — On Sunday, October 14, the Armenian Library and who will dis - Museum of America (ALMA) will open an exhibit paying homage to the Armenian cuss “The painter and art historian Arshag Fetvadjian (1866-1947). Impact of the Born in Trebizond and trained in Rome, Fetvadjian became one of the most promi - Armenian nent Armenian painters of the late Script and 19th century. He is known for his Printing on watercolor paintings of the archi - Armenian Dr. Kevork Bardakjian tectural monuments of the Identity and medieval Armenian city of Ani, as Letters.” well as portraits of Armenians at Fresno State president, Dr. John Welty, the turn of the 20th century. He is Provost Dr. William Covino and dean of also the designer of the currency the College of Arts and Humanities, Dr. and postage stamps of the first Vida Samiian, will also speak at the after - Republic of Armenia (1918–1920). noon reception. Following the creation of the The exhibit features rare books and Republic of Armenia in 1918, the Pianist Nareh Arghamanyan several examples of earlier manuscripts members of the country’s Finance from the Armenian Studies Program Ministry commissioned Fetvadjian ted to the University for Music and Performing collection. The majority of the printed to design the new currency to Arts Vienna, where she studied with Heinz works are from the Parnay Collection replace the Russian ruble, as well Medjimorec and continues chamber music stud - consisting of 300 rare, early printed as stamps for the nascent state. ies with Avo Kouyoumdjan. works. The majority of them were pub - Fetvadjian’s attractive designs fea - She has attended the summer studies pro - lished by the Armenian Mekhitarist tured animal motifs that were gram both at Tanglewood in Massachusetts and Congregation of Venice. The collection found in Ani. The printing was con - the Marlboro Music Festival in Vermont. Since includes books from Constantinople, ducted in Europe but just as the 2010, she has been working with Arie Vardi in Tiflis and elsewhere. Ray Parnay donat - banknotes were being printed in Fetvadjian in New York in 1920 Hannover, Germany. ed the collection, once belonging to his Paris, Soviet Russia was completing She is the recipient of numerous awards and late father, Mardig, and late uncle, its conquest of the republic. By prizes, including the 2007 Piano Campus Serope Y. Parnay (Yedi-Kardashian), in December 1920, the Armenian state was finally absorbed by the Soviets. The ban - International Competition in Pontoise, France, and 2006. knotes thus were never put into circulation. the Jose Roca Competition in Valencia, Spain. A 1782 Guidebook to the Holy Places The opening reception will be held on Sunday, October 14 at 2 p.m. Now under professional management on both of Jerusalem is the oldest book on dis - The new exhibit will be featured in the museum’s third floor Contemporary Art sides of the Atlantic, Arghamanyan is in her sec - play. Other works include a translation of Gallery. ond season of artistic engagements, a busy Homer’s Iliad (1843), a History of Vartan Admission on opening day only will be free. schedule of recitals and soloist appearances and the Armenian War (1859) by around the world. Highlights include a recent Yeghishe and A Geography of Place performance of the Saint-Saens’ Second Piano Names of Greater Armenia (1855) by Concerto with the Tonhalle Orchestra of Zurich Father Ghevont Alishan. with Sir Neville Marriner, and upcoming A special facsimile reproduction of the appearances with the Gewandhaus Orchestra of ninth-century Etchmiadzin Gospels on Leipzig under Riccardo Chailly, and perfor - loan from the collection of Arminee mances with Oslo Opera Orchestra, Bern Shishmanian and the late Dr. Leo Symphony Orchestra as well as the Vancouver, Shishmanian of Fresno will also be dis - Columbus (Ohio) and Utah Symphony played. The Etchmiadzin Gospels contain Orchestras. Last season, she appeared as soloist the “Final Four Miniatures,” the earliest with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra and the known Armenian miniature paintings, Vienna Chamber Orchestra and in recitals in which date back to the sixth century. such esteemed venues as the Berlin The exhibit, which is free and open to Philharmonie and Tonhalle Zurich. the public, can be viewed during regular Arghamanyan’s performances have prompted library hours throughout October. For enthusiastic response. The Independent of specific hours and openings, visit the London commented: “Arghamanyan's playing is library website: compulsive, emotional yet remarkably ‘com - http://www.fresnostate.edu/library/. plete’ for such a young musician... — sensitive, For more information on the reception unaffected, genuine.” And the Los Angeles and exhibit, contact the Armenian A 100-ruble note designed for the Republic of Armenia Times raved about her “clarity of articulation, Studies Program. firm tone and emotional restraint.” see PIANIST, page 13 12 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Boyadjian’s New Work for Flutes, Piccolo to Premiere

LEXINGTON, Mass. — Lexington’s Grammy Boismortier, the 4’33 by John Cage and Award Nominee, Hayg Boyadjian, has a new Fantasia para un Gentilhombre by Joaquin composition, Danzas Ocultas No. 2 (Hidden Rodrigo. Dances), for 11 flutes and a piccolo. The work The concert will span three centuries of will have its world premiere performance by the music from Renaissance melodies to a video Willow Flute Ensemble, for whom Boyadjian telling of Aphra Ben’s play “Abdelazer” with wrote the work, at the Third Life Studio, 33 Purcell’s incredible music, to Boyadjian’s world Union Square, Somerville, on Saturday, premiere composition. October 20 at 7:30 p.m. The Willow Flute Ensemble is one of the old - Composer Hayg Boyadjian has written the est flute ensembles in New England, which following about the composition, “As the title rehearses in Arlington. The ensemble was first implies it comprises elements or fragments of established in 1996 by flutists of the Power dances, eastern and western. Most of the music Music School in Belmont. “We are always rein - is based on the opening motive, and as is often venting ourselves. We don’t just rely on reper - with much of my music the intervals that make toire that is printed. We are always doing some - up that motive are used throughout the piece thing new or doing something different in the with constant changes, development like, to way we approach a piece” said Orlando Cela, accommodate for the changes in the dance frag - who took the helm of the ensemble in 2001. ments.” For more information about the com - The American Record Guide has written about poser visit his web site: the ensemble’s recent CD recording “World www.haygboyadjian.com Winds”, “The style of the Willow Flute The concert will also include the following Ensemble can definitely be characterized as works: Overture to Agrippina by Handel, guts and gusto.” Incidental Music to Abdelazer by Purcell, Admission to the concert is free, seating is Concerto in D major, op. 15 No.1 by limited.

‘Voyage to Amasia’ to Screen at Belmont Studio Cinema, October 28

BELMONT, Mass. — “Voyage to Amasia,” a greater understanding between two peoples new documentary by Randy Bell and Eric V. still at odds. Hachikian, will have its Boston premiere at the Bell is a Washington, DC-based independent Studio Cinema on Sunday, October 28 at 2 p.m. filmmaker. His documentary films, which The film had its world premiere at the explore subjects as diverse as American popular Pomegranate Film Festival in Toronto in music, mid-century European modernist archi - December 2011, where it won the prize for Best tecture and the AIDS orphan crisis in Kenya, Documentary. It has also screened at the 2012 have won awards from the Cleveland Golden Apricot International Film Festival International Film Festival, the New England (Yerevan, Armenia), Minneapolis International Film and Video Festival, and the Ivy Film Film Festival and the Philadelphia Independent Festival. He received his bachelor’s degree from Film Festival, and it will screen in November at Harvard University in 2000, and his master’s in the St. Louis International public policy from the Film Festival. Harvard Kennedy “Voyage to Amasia” doc - “The filmmakers embark on School of Government uments composer in 2010. FirstFirst ArmenianArmenian ChurchChurch Hachikian’s return to his their own journey in the Hachikian’s music 380 ConcordConcord Ave.,Ave., Belmont,Belmont, MMassass ancestral home — Amasia, has been hailed by the 617-484-4779617-484-4779 Turkey — nearly 100 years hopes of finding a greater New York Times as after Ottoman soldiers “lovely and original.” deported his grandmother, His compositions and FALLFALL HARVESTHARVEST Helen Shushan, during the understanding between two orchestrations can be Armenian Genocide. A heard in a variety of BAZAARAAR long-time Belmont, resi - peoples still at odds.” major motion pictures, dent, Shushan was active in many local cultur - network television shows, and national and al and educational organizations, including international ad campaigns. They have been Saturday,Saturday,y, OcOctobertober 20,20, 22012012 those sponsoring this event. The film is set to performed at Carnegie Hall, Boston’s Hachikian’s piano trio of the same name, which Symphony Hall, at The Getty in Los Angeles, 12 NoonNoon – 8:008:00 PPMM provided the initial inspiration for the docu - and Off-Broadway in New York City. mentary. A reception will take place following the film, “Voyage to Amasia” traces a path through with an opportunity to speak with the directors. Shish,Shiissh, LosLoshh aand ChickenChicken KeKebabebab DDinnersiinnenners the past, honoring the composer’s relationship In honor of Shushan’s commitment to the com - with his grandmother and uncovering what her munity, this event is being jointly sponsored by DeliciousDelicious ArArmenianmmenian ffofoodsoods toto ttakeake homhome:e: family’s life in Turkey might have been like. It the Armenian Library and Museum of America, also explores how the events of nearly a centu - the Friends of Armenian Culture Society, the CheeseCheese BoregBoreg StringString CheeseCheese ry ago continue to strain the relationship National Association for Armenian Studies and between Armenians and Turks today. Inspired Research, and the Armenian Cultural ChoregChoreg KadayifKadayif by one family’s story, the filmmakers embark on Foundation. Admission is free and open to the MantiManti PaklavaPaklava their own journey in the hopes of finding a public. KufteKufte YalanchiYalanchi

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Advertise in the Mirror-Spectator S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Arlington International Film Festival Oct. 17-21 to Feature ‘Grandma’s Tattoos’

ARLINGTON, Mass. — The Arlington in the cotton and peanut fields. When he could Haven’s inner city. In 2012 a traveling exhibi - International Film Festival (AIFF) is a celebra - attend school he loved drawing but not much tion, a retrospective of Rembert’s art, was curat - tion of cultures as well as a platform for recog - else. Attendance at a civil rights demonstration ed by the Hudson River Museum, where it nizing the common global human experience. got him thrown in jail without charges or a trial. showed from February to May. It exhibited at The festival’s mission aims to foster apprecia - An escape over a year later resulted in a prison the Greenville Art Museum in Greenville, SC, tion for different cultures by exploring the lives sentence, but only after Rembert had survived through August 2012. of people around the globe through indepen - an attempted lynching. While serving seven On Saturday, October 20, among the films dent film — to nurture the next generation of years on Georgia chain gangs, Rembert fell in that will be shown will be “Grandma’s filmmakers within our community. love with both his future wife and with leather Tattoos.” At 6:45 p.m., Martin Haroutunian The festival features narrative, documentary, as an art medium. Life and eight children inter - and friends will perform Armenian music, with experimental and animated features and shorts, vened after prison; it was not until 1995 that a discussion with the director after the film. including a special category of short submis - Rembert began to carve, tool and then dye pic - Filmmaker Suzanne Khardalian makes a jour - sions from local high school and college film - tures on leather in his studio in the front room ney into her own family to investigate the ter - makers. Several World, East Coast, and of his home in New Haven, Conn. Most of his rible truth behind her late grandma’s odd tat - Massachusetts premieres will be featured dur - colorful art depicts scenes and themes from toos. Her grandma was always a bit strange, ing the five-day festival. African American life in segregated Cuthbert, never liking physical contact and covered with The second AIFF, scheduled for October 17 – and from the time he spent on those chain unusual marks. Everybody in the family 21 at Regent Theatre, will open with the film gangs. His work was exhibited at the Yale seemed to know the story, but no-one ever awarded Best of Festival, “All Me: The Life and University Art Gallery in 2000 and a triptych spoke about it. So when grandma’s mystery is Times of Winfred Rembert.” Filmmaker Vivian about a lynching was acquired by Yale for their slowly unveiled, family taboos are broken Ducat and subject Rembert will be participating permanent collection. Rembert subsequently down and Suzanne exposes the bigger story – in a moderated discussion/Q&A session follow - exhibited at various other venues. His first the fate of the Armenian women driven out of ing the screening. major catalogued one-man exhibition was pre - Ottoman Turkey during the First World War. A feature documentary, the film chronicles sented in New York in 2010 by Adelson The painful journey behind Suzanne’s grand - the life of Rembert, a 66-year-old African- Galleries in association with Peter Tillou Works ma’s tattoos unfolds through Armenia, American who grew up in Cuthbert, Ga. Still from “Grandma’s Tattoos” of Art. Lebanon, Sweden and Syria, finally bringing Rembert spent most of his childhood working Rembert and his family still live in New out the truth.

Pianist Arghamanyan To Perform Recitals in CC AA LLEENNDDAARR Boston, Philadelphia And New York PIANIST, from page 11 In April Arghamanyan released her debut CALIFORNIA recording with solo works by Rachmaninoff for the Dutch label Pentatone. This is followed by a NOVEMBER 17 — Haigazian University Trustees Banquet in Liszt concerto disc (to be released this month) Honor of Joyce Philibosian Stein, Ellis Island honoree, Sheraton with the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra and Universal Ballroom, Los Angeles. Social hour, 6 p.m., dinner, 7 p.m. Alain Altingolu. Previously the Analekta label For more information, call (323) 456-8031 or joyceabdu - released a disc of the sonatas by Rachmaninoff [email protected]. and Liszt to great acclaim. In the liner notes for the solo Rachmaninoff album, she writes about MASSACHUSETTS her convictions and affinity for the composer’s music: “I think American writer Kurt Vonnegut OCTOBER 17-25 — Muriel Mirak-Weissbach book presentation of may have been inspired by Rachmaninoff’s Madmen at the Helm: Pathology and Politics in the Arab Spring , on artistry when he prescribed his own epitaph four dates: ‘the only proof he needed for the existence of • OCTOBER 17 — with panel discussion with Prof. Roger Owen, God was Music.’ If my performances can elicit author of The Rise and Fall of Arab Presidents for Life . This program even a single soul to ponder the same thoughts, is presented as part of the Partners in Public Dialogue program at Old I would feel gratified.” South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston, Tuesday, 6:30 Sunday’s performance at the Gardner muse - p.m. For more information, contact [email protected] or call (618) 482- um will feature music of Bach (Partita No. 2 in 6439; C-Minor), the Fantasiestucke Op. 12 by • OCTOBER 18 — BookEnds, 559 Main St., Winchester, Thursday, 7 The First Armenian Church, 380 Concord Ave., Schumann and a set of Etude Tableaux by p.m. For information, (781) 721-5933 or Belmont, Mass., will hold their Fall Harvest Sergei Rachmaninoff. More information about the concert can be found at www.bookendswinchester.com; Bazaar, Saturday, October 20, from 12 noon • OCTOBER 21 — Armenian Cultural Foundation, 441 Mystic St., www.gardnermuseum.org. to 8 p.m. Handmade choreg, manti, Armenian Arlington, Sunday, 3 p.m. For information, (781) 646-3090; and Arghamanyan repeats her recital program in • OCTOBER 25 — Robbins Public Library, 700 Mass. Ave., Arlington, pastries and more will be available, as will Philadelphia on October 24 at the American Thursday, 7 p.m. kebab and the Marketplace. All are welcome. Philosophical Society, presented by the OCTOBER 20 — The Fall Harvest Bazaar, Saturday, from 12 noon to For more information, visit Philadelphia Chamber Music Society 8 p.m. The First Armenian Church, 380 Concord Ave., Belmont. www.firstarmenianchurch.org or call 617- (www.pcmsconcerts.org), and in New York on Handmade choreg, manti, Armenian pastries and more. Grilled 484-4779. October 28 at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade kebab all day. Browse the Marketplace. All are welcome. Info, Theatre (www.lcgreatperformers.org). www.firstarmenianchurch.org or call 617-484-4779. OCTOBER 25 — K. George and Carolann S. Najarian Endowed Lecture on Human Rights. Speaker: Ambassador Edward P. ticipation of Akh’Tamar Dance Ensemble of the Hye Doon, Arev Djerejian, founding director, James A. Baker III Institute for Public Armenian Folk Ensemble of Hamazkayin of Boston, Sunday, 3:45 Policy, Rice University and former US ambassador to Israel (1992- p.m. Bergen County Academics, 200 Hackensack, NJ 07601. All net 1994) and the Syrian Arab Republic (1988-1991). Faneuil Hall, proceeds to benefit the Hovnanian Armenian School. Tickets: $50, Boston. Thursday, 7 p.m. An endowed public program of Armenian $35 and $25. For tickets, call Sonya Bekarian, (201) 315-5916; Juliyet Heritage Park. Free and open to the public. Tabibian, (201) 233-0326; Nivart Arslan, (201) 475-0224; Maral OCTOBER 27 — Saturday, AWWA Annual Luncheon Auction, Kalishian, (845) 729-1888; Maral Kaprielian, (201) 289-6486; Lina Burlington Marriott, 11 a.m. Silent Auction and bidding, $50 per per - Bakhtiarian, (732) 299-1120; Linda Gezdir, (201) 394-6310 or the son. Contact [email protected] or call JoAnn Janjigian at school, (201) 967-5940. 781-329-4398. NOVEMBER 17-18 — Musical theater presentation by TCA Mher NOVEMBER 1 — Save the date. An Evening with the AUA Megerdchian Theatrical Group, Yervant Odian’s “Love and Administration Team. American University of Armenia (AUA) Laughter” (Ser yev Dzidzagh), directed by Krikor Satamian, with president, Dr. Bruce Boghosian to speak, along with top university more than 20 actors participating. Dwight Englewood High School, administrators to review AUA’s academic and institutional accom - Englewood Cliffs, 8 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday. $25, plishments during its 20 years of operation in Armenia and the strate - $35, $50. For tickets, call Marie Zokian or Noushig Atamian. gic plans that will shape the future of the university. Details on venue NOVEMBER 18 — Join the TCA Mher Megerdchian Theatrical and start time to follow. Group Cast Par ty to celebrate “Love and Laughter.” Special hon - oree, Karnig Nercessian, one of the founding members of the TCA NEW JERSEY Mher Megerdchian Theatrical Group. St. Thomas Armenian Church, East Clinton Ave. & 9W, Tenafly. 8 p.m. Donation: $30. BYOB. For Entertainment Fridays OCTOBER 21 — Hye Doon (Armenian American Suppor t and tickets, call Marie Zokian (201) 745-8850, Maro Hajakian (201) 934- and Saturdays Educational Center), 35th Anniversary Celebration, with the par - 3427 or Noushig Atamian (718) 344-5582. 14 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

T HE A RMENIAN COMMENTARY Mirror- Fallout from an Iranian Crisis

been lost on observers. Indeed, the former chief of the Islamic By Edmond Y. Azadian Revolutionary Guard Corps announced to Press TV that “if the Spectator Israelis attack, Iran’s deterrent power would deal a mortal blow to them and that the Israeli death toll would not be less than 10,000.” When we characterize the Middle East as a powder keg which All this exchange of rhetoric has been flying over the heads of might explode at any moment, we are using a cliché commonly neighboring nations, which will suffer most should a conflagration cited in today’s political discourse. be triggered. Armenia, being on the front line, will become the first As the tensions rise there, the ramifications reverberate around one to be affected. Established 1932 the world. At the present time, when motorists pay through their The US has befriended medieval potentates in the Gulf Emirates, An ADL Publication noses at the gas pump, they seldom realize that the fluctuations in Saudi Arabia and Jordan, using the euphemistic description of oil prices correspond with the war rhetoric in and about the Middle “moderate regimes” to cover up the political compromise of its own East. The news media has refined its brainwashing capacity to such democratic principles. Therefore, Armenia is entitled to choose its

EDITOR a sophisticated degree that the average citizen is at the mercy of own friends (especially when its lifeline hinges on that choice) Alin K. Gregorian demagogues. regardless if those friends are viewed as less democratic in the The concern over Iran’s nuclear prospects has contributed to the Western lexicon of double-standards. ASSOCIATE EDITOR tensions in the Middle East, especially at the prodding of Israeli Iran has been a friend of Armenia for centuries. Armenians have Aram Arkun Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been pushing the enjoyed prosperity during the rule of the Shah and they have been ART DIRECTOR Obama administration to draw the “red line” in front of Tehran, treated with dignity even under the Islamic Republic. As Georgia is Marc Mgrditchian threatening military action, if Iran crosses that red line. conniving with Azerbaijan against it, Armenia has a more reliable The Israeli prime minister’s insistence went so far recently that route with the outside world through Iran. COPY EDITOR Dilani Yogaratnam an op-ed piece in the New York Times advised President Obama to Plus, through political necessity, the two countries have been draw a “red line” in front of Netanyahu to stop him from meddling drawn closer together. in the US presidential politics. Iran is a huge country with abundant energy resources which it SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: After Republican candidate for President Gov. Mitt Romney’s pil - has also been trading with Armenia. Iran is the 18th largest coun - Edmond Azadian grimage to Israel and his pledge of complete surrender (Jerusalem try in the world, with a land mass of 636,372 square miles that can as the capital of Israel, Palestinians inferior to Israelis), hopes were cover the UK, France, Germany and Spain, combined. Its popula - CONTRIBUTORS: raised within the Israeli leadership that the Obama administration tion is 75 million, with Persians accounting for 61 percent of the Florence Avakian, Elizabeth Aprahamian, would rush to match Romney’s rhetoric, courting the support of population, Azeris 16 percent and Kurds 10 percent. Daphne Abeel, Dr. Haroutiune the Jewish voters. A contender may promise the sky, yet the lead - Unlike the Ottomans, Ittihadists and Kemalists who exterminat - Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. ers in charge of a country’s destiny cannot act recklessly. Given the ed Armenians to take over their historic homeland, the Persian Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der continuing bloodshed in Iraq and Afghanistan, when a combined rulers have valued Armenians as creative and enterprising people Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , number of 6,500 US troops have been sacrificed with more than and they have encouraged them to be integrated into their soci - Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop 50,000 veterans disabled or gripped by suicide fever, the Obama eties. An example of that “tough love” was expressed by Shah Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian administration reacted more responsibly, staying the course and Abbas, in the early 17th century, who forced Armenians from Julfa insisting that economic sanctions had been working in dampening (Jugha) in Nakhichevan, Armenia, to migrate to Persia and form CORRESPONDENTS: Iran’s nuclear hopes. New Julfa, in Isfahan, to contribute to the economic development Armenia - Hagop Avedikian Ironically, the policy paid off and President Obama’s ratings in of his country. Boston - Nancy Kalajian the polls rose significantly, driving home the truth that people in The war rhetoric around Iran has another dimension, which no Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian the US are tired of continuous wars which have had a catastroph - longer is kept as a secret but is discussed publicly: the plan is to Contributing Photographers: ic impact on the US economy, parallel to the human losses. implode Iran along ethnic fault lines and to snatch the northern Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair In view of these developments, Netanyahu toned down his belli - region (Iranian Azerbaijan) and attach it to the Republic of Hovsepian cose rhetoric. Azerbaijan, the dynastic property of the Aliyev clan, ruled by anoth - Under the pressure of the sanctions, Iran’s currency, the rial, er “moderate” despot, to please the West. If this indeed happens, it recently suffered a 40-percent depreciation, touching off riots in the will create a huge docile country in the region, at the expense of The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published streets there. Armenia, which would face a more formidable, larger enemy, sup - weekly, except two weeks in July, by: According to the Wall Street Journal, the protests in Iran linked ported and armed by Turkey and Israel. Baikar Association, Inc. to the country’s weakening currency are causing Israeli officials to The fallout from any military attack on Iran or any territorial par - reconsider the likelihood of a strike against Iranian nuclear targets. tition will translate into a catastrophic blow to a beleaguered 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Telephone: 617-924-4420 Iran, in its turn, raised its own war rhetoric, which must not have Armenia. FAX: 617-924-2887 www.mir rorspectator.com E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com For advertising: [email protected] Curtailing an NGO and Political Debate in Armenia

world stage, but it illustrates an important and They have also received private grants from SUBSCRIPTION RATES : By David Ignatius worrying trend. In Moscow and other former the Eurasia Partnership Foundation and the Soviet capitals, NGOs are being squeezed by German Marshall Fund (GMF). (Full disclosure: the authorities, who see them as potential vehi - I am a GMF trustee and have met Oskanian at U.S.A. $80 a year The campaign against Western-backed NGOs cles for popular protest and political change. several international conferences.) is spreading to Armenia, where a former for - This month, Russia announced it was expelling John Heffern, the US ambassador to Canada $125 a year eign minister is accused of “money laundering” the US Agency for International Development, Armenia, visited Civilitas in June, along with a Other Countries $190 a year because he accepted contributions from the which has funded many Russian NGOs. A sim - group of European ambassadors, and then father of former US presidential candidate Jon ilar squeeze is evident in Azerbaijan, Ukraine spoke with a reporter from Radio Free Huntsman to support civil-society projects. and Belarus, as well as in many Muslim coun - Europe/Radio Liberty’s Armenia service. He The target is Vartan Oskanian, a US-educat - tries, such as Egypt and Pakistan. called the move against the organization “trou - © 2011 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator ed Armenian who served as foreign minister The Civilitas case is interesting in part bling” and added: “Civilitas is a very important Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA from 1998 to 2008 and then started a non - because of the involvement of the father of Jon partner for us, and we think it’s really impor - and additional mailing offices. governmental organization called Civilitas. The Huntsman. The senior Huntsman has an active tant for Armenia politically and for the media.” ISSN 0004-234X allegation is that Jon Huntsman Sr.’s contribu - philanthropist in Armenian since the 1988 Civilitas has an international advisory board POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The tion of nearly $2 million, described in detail on earthquake and is said by Civilitas to have con - that includes Stephen Bosworth, a US former Armenian Mirror-Spectator, P.O. Box 302, Civilitas’s Web site, violates Armenian laws. tributed about $20 million to Armenian caus - ambassador who is dean of Tufts University’s Watertown, MA 02471-0302 At the heart of the case, according to ana - es. When Huntsman International, a family Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, where Other than the editorial, views and opinions lysts in Armenia, is politics — and whether company, decided in 2010, to close its Oskanian took a graduate degree. expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily Armenia will have open, multiparty debates or Armenian subsidiary, Huntsman Building The decision to go after Oskanian and eflect the policies of the publisher. follow Russia back into Soviet-style authoritar - Products, the company directed in a written Huntsman, two prominent and widely respect - ian government. The Armenian National message that the proceeds should go to ed figures, is scary because it illustrates how Security Service has revoked Oskanian’s par - Oskanian for the benefit of Civilitas. The sale far the authorities are willing to go in the for - liamentary immunity, in what’s described by produced about $2 million, of which $577,000 mer Soviet republics in curtailing debate. Just the local media as a prelude to criminal prose - went directly to Civilitas and $1.4 million to a few years ago, Russia and its former satellites cution. Oskanian, for future distribution. (Oskanian were brimming with civil-society projects and The move to prosecute Oskanian began after said he has already sent another $548,000 to NGOs, whose links to the West gave a cos - he allied himself in early 2012 with the oppo - Civilitas, with the rest to follow.) mopolitan feel to once-dreary capitals of the Copying for other than personal use or sition Prosperous Armenia Party and then Civilitas produces a newspaper and an old Soviet empire. You can see a figurative internal reference is prohibited without announced that he would not support a coali - Internet television news show, which are inde - door swinging shut in the moves over the past express permission of the copyright owner. Address requests for reprints or tion with President Serge Sargisian and his rul - pendent voices in a country where most media year to suppress Western contamination — and back issues to: ing party. Sargisian’s government has been a outlets are controlled by the government. the freer political debate the NGOs have Baikar Association, Inc. solid ally of Russia; Oskanian is seen as more Oskanian and Civilitas have attracted interna - encouraged. independent and potentially pro-Western. tional donations, including government grants 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 The legal battle in Yerevan, Armenia’s capi - from Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, (This column originally appeared in the tal, might seem like a small sideshow on the Switzerland, the UK and the United States. Washington Post on September 29.) S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

stated that “it is audacious for a country that itself hasn’t tions recognizing the Armenian Genocide. So Israel does - recognized the Armenian Genocide, to start telling other n’t have to wait for the US to do it first. We’ve already done countries what they should be doing. So number one: get it twice, so they can do it once at least, in the meantime.” this [genocide] resolution passed, and push and persuade Representative Berman: “For historical reasons Israel the Executive Branch to support what the Congress has should do it, particularly Israel, should do it.” My Turn done, and then you do want to make it into an interna - Representative Sherman: Israel is going to recognize the tional consensus. But, we are not effectively going to tell a Armenian Genocide “because it is the moral and right By Harut Sassounian government that they should do something that we haven’t thing to do and because the historical record is there.” yet done…” In response to a question on whether the United States Representative Sherman: “I’m proud that Yad Vashem, should stop paying rent to the Turkish government for the Two Congressmen Battle Over the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem, recognizes the Airbase in Incirlik, Turkey — located on occupied Armenian Armenian-American Votes Armenian genocide; proud that the Holocaust Museum in territories — and pay that money to the heirs of original Washington does the same. We need to recognize the Armenian owners, Representative Sherman stated: “I look This is the second part of the debate between two Armenian Genocide at the U.S. government level, but I for forward to developing a foreign policy where we are less Democratic Representatives Howard Berman and Brad one have the chutzpah to urge my Israeli friends to do it dependent upon the use of bases in Turkey, because I’ve Sherman, held at the Ferrahian School’s Avedissian Hall in even before we do it. And the politics in Israel are a little seen them try to lobby the Pentagon, to lobby Congress Encino, Calif., on September 29. The debate was organized different. Here, there is still this mirage that somehow not to recognize the Genocide on the theory that, ‘oh, you by the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Turkey is the critical American ally. In Israel, that same need our bases.’ We can and should work with our other Region. mirage was more or less shattered recently, and so we may southeast Asian NATO allies to have a basing structure that Representative Sherman: “We need to recognize the indeed find that Israel is able to beat the United States in does not require us to be paying rent to the Turkish state. Genocide not only for Armenia, not only for America, but recognizing the first genocide of the 20th century. And …However, as long as our base is on that land, that the Turkish state will never be a modern state until it given the history of Israel and the history of the Jewish becomes an excellent argument for additional aid to the comes to grip with its own history.” Criticizing the US gov - people, I think it’s an important thing to do. So I for one Armenian state because we’re on that territory.” ernment’s reluctance to use the term Armenian Genocide, don’t believe we should wait to urge Israel to move forward, Representative Berman: “…One of the arguments made Representative Sherman asked: “What kind of superpower but we should be inspired to move forward ourselves as in Congress against the genocide resolution is ‘Oh the cowers before history? What kind of superpower worries quickly as possible.” Turks will kick us out of Incirlik.’ The Turks have no inten - about Turkish threats? Dozens of parliaments around this Panelist Harut Sassounian: “I would like to clarify some - tion of kicking us out of Incirlik. They want us there; world have recognized the Genocide. It is about time for thing for the record based on the answers that you both they’re desperate to have us there. This is a smokescreen. Congress to have the same level of courage!” gave. Before we give any wiggle room for Israel to wait for This is an argument that people who are fronting for the In response to a question on what the two Congressmen us to pronounce judgment on this issue, I think we would Turkish position use to scare Congress into thinking would do to encourage America’s allies such as Israel to do well to remember that in 1975 and in 1984, twice, the there’ll be great dangers to our national security.” recognize the Armenian Genocide, Representative Berman House of Representatives, the full House, adopted resolu - (to be continued)

Armenian-Americans at RNC 2012: Support Mitt Romney for President

our elected officials. When it comes to By Taniel Koushakjian Armenian issues, President Obama failed to fulfill his campaign pledge to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide as President. That Every four years, the campaign for the calls into question his honesty. President highest office of the land takes place. As Obama’s nomination and subsequent recess candidates from the Republican Party navi - appointment of Matthew Bryza to serve as gated the choppy waters of the primary Ambassador to Azerbaijan was opposed by storm this election season, one man sailed Senators of his own party, not to mention to victory: former Massachusetts Governor many Armenian-Americans. That calls into Mitt Romney. Winning the party’s nomina - question his ability to lead. And the silence tion was no easy feat and on several occa - of the Obama administration on the sions, the media and members of his own destruction, confiscation and profiteering party, were quick to write him off. However, of Christian Armenian religious properties Mitt Romney and his campaign rose to the by the Turkish Government, as well as challenge, and secured the 1,190 Azerbaijan’s completed destruction of cen - Republican Party Delegates necessary to turies-old Armenian Khachkars at Julfa, call clinch the nomination. No doubt, the battles into question his values. he faced in the primary contest will come in From Fresno to Philadelphia, from handy when he goes head-to-head with Manchester to Miami, from Detroit to President Obama. Denver, from Waukesha to Washington, DC, Among these Republican Party Armenian-Americans have expressed their Delegates, who are elected within their frustration with President Obama, and respective state party systems, were six many former Armenian supporters of his Armenian-Americans. The states of are now backing Mitt Romney for president. Connecticut, Florida, Kentucky, In fact, one prominent Armenian-American Massachusetts, Michigan and Rhode Island who supported President Obama in 2008, were each represented by an official GOP to us to get Armenian-American votes like is the independence, freedom, and well- and is now backing Governor Romney, Delegate of Armenian descent. President Obama. being of Americans. This allows us to be expressed as much to the author. Speaking Harout Samra, an attorney in Miami said, “Governor Romney is the right man for able to express concerns for Armenian on condition of anonymity, she shared her “it was a privilege to attend the Republican the moment. He understands how to turn issues and to assist appropriately. frustration: “Senator Obama chose to National Convention as a delegate for around the economy at home and to ensure “Mr. Romney knows that the founding promise, in campaign speeches and written Florida. Coming to the floor of the that America is respected abroad. Unlike fathers of America had great concerns outreach, recognition of the 1915 Genocide Convention hall for the first time was very President Obama, Governor Romney's top about dictatorial attitudes and insisted of Armenians at the hands of Ottoman exciting. Frankly, I did not expect to be as priority will be to create an environment upon a separation of powers — something Turks. He fully understood the importance moved as I was. It was a great honor to have that leads to more jobs and spurs economic Mr. Obama has side-stepped for the better of that issue to the Armenian American been selected to represent my fellow growth,” stated Samra. part of four years. Mr. Romney wants to community and indeed to all right thinking Floridians. That came home to me as I Another Republican Party Delegate, Bob return to a Constitutional government Americans. Americans deserve a President reached the floor. I genuinely enjoy inter - Semonian, state chairman of Massachusetts through our elected Representatives. Mr. who knows his principles and makes his acting with people from different back - Republican Party-Ethnic Outreach Obama wants all-pervasive government with decisions in accordance with those princi - grounds. The United States is a remarkably expressed that he was "thrilled to attend the the decision makers being unelected ples. Americans deserve a President who diverse place, and I believe this diversity Republican National Convention in Tampa bureaucrats. has integrity. So why come November was represented not only in our delegation, this year. Americans want honesty in the “The choice is clear — constitutional would I vote for a President who over the but also in those of the other states. White House and Mitt Romney is an honest guarantees and responsibilities to preserve course of four years has delivered precious Florida’s delegation included first-genera - man who will best represent all of America," the rule of law versus arbitrary actions from little and lied to us and other communi - tion Americans, such as myself, and long - stated Semonian, who also serves as the a few with no guarantees of the rule of law. ties?” time natives. It included Indian-Americans, Armenian-Americans for Mitt Romney For all Armenians and all Americans, Mitt Indeed, why would we? She then con - Cuban-Americans, and even one Armenian- Coalition Massachusetts state chair. Romney is the best choice.” fessed, “I'll take a chance on Romney.” American. From the Great Lakes State was Krista Over the course of this year, several “Governor Romney knows and under - Haroutunian, who serves as the Republican Armenian-Americans across the country, (Taniel Koushakjian is the manager of the stands the issues that are important to Party chair for the 13th Congressional including the author, have been challenged Armenian-Americans for Mitt Romney Armenian-Americans. Living in Belmont and District. She stated, “My time at the 2012 on our positions of supporting Governor Coalition. The Armenian-Americans for Mitt serving as the Governor of Massachusetts, RNC was extremely important and made me Romney over President Obama. “What do Romney Coalition is not affiliated with Mitt he's had more important contacts and rela - proud to be American, an Armenian, and you expect from Romney that will be differ - Romney for President. The group’s tionships with the Armenian-American com - from Detroit, Michigan.” Haroutunian con - ent that Obama,” is the common intrigue. Facebook page can be visited at munity than any President since Ronald tinued, “The first concern of an American, To put it plainly, like all Americans, we www.facebook.com/armenianamericansforr Reagan. He will not mislead us and pander of whatever cultural or ethnic background, expect leadership, honesty and values from omney or on Twitter @Armenians4Mitt.) 16 S ATURDAY , O CTOBER 13, 2012 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR