MAY 31, 2014 MirTHErARoMENr IAN -Spe ctator Volume LXXXIV, NO. 45, Issue 4339 $ 2.00 NEWS IN BRIEF The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932 President of Armenia May 28: First Hosts Religious Leaders YEREVAN — President Serge Sargisian on May 28 Republic Day held a meeting with the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, the Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I and Marked in the Armenian Catholic Patriarch Nerses Petros XIX. The president, the Supreme Patriarch of All Armenia Armenians, the Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia and the Catholicos Patriarch of the House of YEREVAN (ArmeniaNow) — The Cilicia discussed issues concerning the close coop - independence anniversary of the First eration between the state and the Armenian Republic was marked in Armenia on churches, as well as issues pertaining to the home - May 28, with the country’s top politi - land and the Armenian Diaspora. cal, military and spiritual leadership At the meeting, the participants discussed the attending traditional celebrations at role of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the pre - Sardarapat, 40 kilometers west of the serving Armenian identity. Those gathered also dis - capital, where advancing Turkish cussed the involvement of the Armenian Apostolic troops were stopped in a heroic battle and Armenian Catholic churches in Armenia’s 96 years ago. plans for marking the centennial of the Genocide. Along with other Armenian military From left, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I, Catholicos of All Armenians In addition, the president and the three religious successes at Bash-Aparan, Karakilisa Karekin II, President Serge Sargisian, President Bako Sahakian of Karabagh and Armenian leaders discussed the fate of Armenians in Syria. and elsewhere, the May 1918 victory Catholic Patriarch Nerses Bedros XIX at Sardarapat see REPUBLIC, page 2 Gabriel Sargissian Wins Chicago Chess Tourney Genocide Education CHICAGO (Armenpress) — Three-time Olympic TCA and ADL of Armenia Hold champion Grandmaster Gabriel Sargissian and Bill Unanimously took first place at the Chicago Chess Open tourna - Leadership Meetings in Yerevan ment. Priyadharshan Kannappan of India came in Passes California second, according to the Chess Federation of YEREVAN — On May 9-12, meetings were structive and practical consensus regarding Armenia. held between the Central Board of various challenges and issues faced by the Assembly Committee This was Sargissian’s third victory in the Chicago Directors of the Tekeyan Cultural organizations. Open, with the previous wins there in 2009 and SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Friday, Association (TCA) of United States and On May 9, a special meeting was held 2012. the California State Assembly Canada, the Trustees of TCA London Trust, with the participation of representatives of Appropriations Committee unanimously the Trustees of TCA Yerevan Foundation the Executive Board of the Democratic passed AB 1915, requiring the inclusion and the representatives of the Armenian Liberal Party of Armenia: Hagop Avedikian Sargisian Invites Turk of the Armenian Genocide in the list of Democratic Liberal Party of Armenia. The (chairman), Karen Kakoyan (vice chairman), studied subject areas for the adopted Pres. to Armenia on leaders of TCA and ADL arrived at a con - see MEETING, page 16 courses of study in Social Science for 7- 12, reported the Armenian National April 24, 2015 Committee of America Western Region YEREVAN (Armenpress) — President of Armenia (ANCA WR). The bill, authored by Serge Sargisian invited the President of Turkey to Assembly member Adrin Nazarian, also visit Armenia on April 24, 2015 during the fourth recommends for the Department of sitting of the state committee dedicated to the Education to include the atrocities of 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. 1915 into publications and curriculum “If the Turkish authorities are interested in the materials. truth, they have to come to Armenia and be by the AB 1915, which had unanimously side of the Armenian people on April 24. I do not passed the California State Assembly think that after that they will be able to speak out Education Committee in early April will about visiting archives. Taking advantage of this now move on to the full Assembly floor opportunity I officially invite the President of for consideration. Turkey, whoever be elected in the upcoming elec - “As AB 1915 advances for a floor vote, tions, to visit Armenia on April 24, 2015 and to face I look forward to working with my col - the conspicuous evidence of the history of the leagues in the Assembly and the ANCA- Armenian Genocide,” said the president. WR to ensure From left, Nar Khatchadourian, Silva Aharonian, Hagop Vartivarian, Roupen Mirzakhanian, He also stated that he had sent invitations to the swift passage Vartan Ouzounian, Krikor Haroutounian and Hagop Avedikian heads of a number of states to visit Armenia in for this vital 2015, especially on April 24, to raise a voice against measure. the crime of genocide in general and to fix that the Education on Armenian people not only survived these fated suf - human rights ferings, but also took the path of revival. and the Armenian Heritage Park Chefs’ Armenian genocide is an Fundraiser Brings in $95,000 important com - ponent that INSI DE LEO GOZBEKIAN PHOTO should be Assembly Member broadly incor - Adrin Nazarian By Alin K. Gregorian porated in our Mirror-Spectator Staff curriculum. Happy This has been a long time coming, and I CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Some of am so pleased from the broad range of the most famous chefs in Boston support for this measure,” stated 104th came together on Wednesday, May Assemblymember Nazarian. 21, at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Earlier in the week, ANCA Western Page 6 Boston, for the Chefs Party for Our Region Executive Director Elen Park fundraiser helping the Asatryan submitted a strongly worded Armenian Heritage Park. The pro - Jim Kalustian, Foundation President, with letter in support of AB1915 on behalf of gram raised $95,000 for the upkeep Chef Seta Dakessian, chef/owner of Seta’s the organization noting “Despite the Cafe in Belmont INDEX of the park, which was officially existence of the provision within the Arts and Living ...... 11 opened and dedicated in 2012. framework (pursuant to AB 1273 which Armenia ...... 2 The participating chefs who had was enacted in 1985), the Armenian Community News...... 4 donated their time and food were Ana Sortun of Oleana, Sofra and Sarma; Andrew Genocide is not taught in the over - Editorial ...... 14 Hebert of Trade, Andrew Yeo of the Ritz Carlton; Brian Dandro of whelming majority of our public International ...... 3 see CHEFS, page 8 schools. The State Assembly recently see EDUCATION, page 5 2 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARMENIA News From Armenia Matenadaran Institute Celebrates Launch Of New AGBU-Funded Scholarship

Karabagh Soldier Killed YEREVAN — Armenia’s While Confronting Azeri Ministry of Education and Science and the Mesrop Infiltrators Mashtots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts (the STEPANAKERT (Armenpress) — An Armenian sol- Matenadaran). The new ven - dier in the Karabagh army was killed the night of ture will provide bright May 27-28 along the southern contact line between young researchers with the Karabagh and Azerbaijan. At around 2.55 a.m., support they need to discov - Azeri forces attempted to penetrate into Karabagh. er and help preserve some of The press service of the NKR Defense Army the oldest manuscripts, reported that the front line units of the defense books and documents in army, detecting the advance of the special detach- Armenian history. ments of Azeri soldiers, responded and caused sig- Eight scholars were select - nificant damage to the Azeris. ed to participate in the While resisting the Azerbaijani soldiers, AGBU-funded program, Karabagh sustained one loss, that of Corporal Eric advancing their studies in art Vilen Gasparyan, 19. history and theory, historical The Defense Ministry of the Republic of Nagorno source research, historiogra - Karabagh expressed its condolences to Gasparyan’s phy, as well as world history. family members, relatives and fellow servicemen. AGBU scholarship recipients display their new certificates. The young researchers will work in The Matenadaran is the ideal the Matenadaran to help preserve its centuries-old collections. site to conduct their work: it International houses more than 100,000 documents dating as early as the eighth Armenia’s independence, when the the AGBU Armenia Representation Community Worried on century. Researchers and tourists travel country was plagued by an energy crisis, office, congratulated the students and from all over the world to see its nation - AGBU and its benefactors helped the addressed the crowd, remarking, “When Azeri Arms Acquisition: al treasures, including the Gospel of Matenadaran acquire the air condition - the Matenadaran’s leadership first Nalbandian Lazarus and Hakob Meghapart’s ing, fire prevention and security systems approached AGBU with the idea for this Parzatumar, one of the first Armenian that are vital to protecting its archives. partnership, we did not hesitate to YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The issue of books ever printed. AGBU has also sponsored a number of pledge our support. We knew it would Azerbaijan’s increased spending on weapons causes The scholarship initiative is one of the the Madenataran’s publications. strengthen an already productive part - concern to the international community and the many ways AGBU has supported the The new program was inaugurated nership between our organization and Organization for Security and Cooperation in Matenadaran over the years. Following during a ceremony held at the institute the institute, one that is of strategic Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group Co-chair countries as and attended by several public officials. importance because it promotes the well, said Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian dur- There to celebrate was Hrachya development of Armenian studies in ing his interview with the journalists in Sardarapat Tamrazyan, the Matenadaran’s director; Yerevan and globally.” on May 28. “The international community and the Armenian Genocide Manuk Mkrtchyan, deputy minister of Upon receiving his certificate, scholar - co-chair countries are also concerned about this Armenia’s Ministry of Education and ship recipient Hrant Ohanyan comment - issue, and they call on taking appropriate steps to Museum Receives Science; Ashot Ghazaryan, vice president ed on the great impact that the program strengthen the ceasefire, withdraw the snipers from of operations of the American University will have on him and his fellow acade - the contact line,” said Nalbandian. 450 Original Photos In reference to the recent statements made by the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, the minister YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The said, that the negotiation process is taking its Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute course. “In a few days the co-chairs will be in has obtained an exclusive and rich col - Azerbaijan, as the last time they were in the region lection of photos connected with the and visited Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh, the Armenian Genocide and its conse - Azerbaijani leadership was not in the country,“ quences. The collection of more than Nalbandian added. 450 original photos was donated to the Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute by the descendants of the Greek- Prime Minister Receives Armenian Khanikian family, noting the importance of the preservation of the Designer Michael Aram memory of the Armenian Genocide and YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Prime Minister Hovik its transmission to the future genera - Abrahamyan received noted American-Armenian tions. designer Michael Aram (Wolohojian). He welcomed The collection includes photos linked the exhibition of Aram’s metal decorative works to the orphanages of the Ottoman currently ongoing in Yerevan on the occasion of the Empire, Greece, Egypt and Syria, the Hovig Eordekian, interim director of the AGBU Armenia Representation office, pre - 25th anniversary of his career. orphans’ lives, the activities of Near sents scholarship recipients with their awards. “I know that the exhibition has created great East Relief, as well as the separate interest among art fans and the public at large. I episodes in the history of the Armenian am glad that your creations are based on Armenian Genocide. On the reverse side of most of Armenia and former director of AGBU mics. Holding his award, he stated, designs and, thus bring honor to our nation of the photos there are notes contain - Armenia; Vardi Keshishian, head of the “AGBU’s assistance is not merely finan - throughout the world,” said Abrahamyan. ing information. Matenadaran’s international relations cial. It signals to us that our work is crit - Abrahamyan urged the renowned designer not “On the eve of the 100th anniversary department; and Vahan Ter-Ghevondyan, ical to the Matenadaran and to the field only to visit Armenia frequently, but also to estab- of the Armenian Genocide, the acquisi - head of the Matenadaran’s Arabic manu - of Armenian studies as a whole. We are lish a school and studio, as well as to develop busi- tion of this collection is not only a sym - scripts research department. so proud and excited that AGBU has ness here. bolic, but also a unique event for our Hovig Eordekian, interim director of decided to invest in us and our research.” museum, and these photos will find their own place in the museum’s new Gagik Harutyunyan exhibition opening in April 2015. Among the photos I would like to dis - May 28: First Republic Day Marked in Armenia Considers Constitutional tinguish for its significance, of course, REPUBLIC, from page 1 largely in the same orbit. It is the Reforms is the original photo of Young Turk also led to the establishment of the first Armenian statehood, its history and leader Ismail Haqqi Bey’s imprison - Armenian republic. present. A serviceman, a teacher, a sci - YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The deferment of the con- ment by the British soldiers,” said the The First Republic of Armenia lasted entist, an artist, a doctor — we all are in stitutional reforms will lead to more complications, director of the Armenian Genocide for about two and a half years. the same orbit that is called the said Chairman of the Constitutional Court Gagik Museum-Institute, Hayk Demoyan. Armenian President Serge Sargisian Republic of Armenia.” Harutyunyan at the public debate on “The initial con- attended the celebrations at the He also made an address to the cept of the constitutional reforms in Armenia.” Sardarapat Memorial. On the occasion, nation on the occasion of First Republic Studying the history of the constitutional order he issued state awards and ranks to dif - Day. He emphasized the great signifi - from the pre-Christian era to the present day, Correction ferent notable figures who have made cance of the Armenian victory at Harutyunyan came to the conclusion that in the achievements in the spheres of science, Sardarapat that saved the nation from A letter to the editor last week fifth century and later the Armenian people had a education, economy, health, culture, total destruction. included the wrong state for higher level of the constitutional culture than it is arts and sports, as well as to a number “All facts and the whole reality Edward Alexander. Mr. today. “Today we have a nation, but no citizens. We of representatives of the Diaspora and seemed to be against us, but we were Alexander is a resident of have situations which can be considered as morbid. servicemen. saved here. We ourselves gained the Washington, DC. He is a retired The primary treatment approach is that the “The fact that this ceremony is taking right to live and return to the interna - US diplomat and the author of Constitution does not allow the emergence of such place in Sardarapat has special mean - tional political arena. And that was several works of non-fiction and situations,” he said. ing. Herewith we emphasize the link done by the most tragic, but at the fiction. and continuity of generations of our same time most heroic generation of We regret the error. people,” Sargisian said. “Herewith we Armenians of all times,” Sargisian stress that the work done by all of us is noted. S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 3 INTERNATIONAL Pope Visits International News Jerusalem Russia Offers More

JERUSALEM (AP) — Pope Francis Tanks to Azerbaijan and the spiritual leader of the world’s MOSCOW (Eurasian.net) — Russia is offering Orthodox Christians prayed together Azerbaijan another 100 tanks, on top of 100 that it Sunday inside the Jerusalem church has bought over the last three years, in a move that that symbolizes their divisions, calling will surely have Armenians asking what more they their historic meeting a step toward need to do to prove their loyalty to Moscow. healing the centuries-old Catholic- Speaking at Kazakhstan’s Kadex defense expo in Orthodox schism. Astana, Konstantin Biryulin, the deputy director of Francis and Ecumenical Patriarch Russia’s Federal Service for Military-Technical Bartholomew I embraced one another Cooperation told Russian news agency Itar-Tass in the stone courtyard outside the 12th that Azerbaijan’s order of 100 T-90S tanks had century Church of the Holy Sepulcher From left, Armenian Patriarch Nourhan Manougian, Pope Francis and Patriarch been completed a month ago. And he added that and recited the “Our Father” prayer Bartholomew I Azerbaijan has an option” to buy another 100, but together once inside, an unprecedented that the option hasn’t yet been exercised. moment of solemnity at the spot where News last summer that Russia had completed a Catholic and Orthodox believe Jesus Tellingly, Francis referred to Paul not climb the steep stairs up to the site $1-billion arms deal with Azerbaijan (which includ- was crucified, buried and resurrected. as pope but as “bishop of Rome” — the where tradition holds Christ was cruci - ed those 100 tanks) prompted outrage in Yerevan. The encounter, punctuated by haunt - other main title attributed to popes and fied. The Gospel was chanted in both Armenia has been a loyal ally of Russia. ing Greek and Latin chants, was full of the way Francis introduced himself to Latin and Greek, to appeal to the lin - But that was when Armenia was flirting with symbolic meaning: The two men, both the world on the night he was elected guistic traditions of both Catholic and signing an Association Agreement with the in their mid-70s, helped one another pope in a clear gesture toward his Orthodox. The two men recited the European Union. Not long after the arms deal was down the stone steps leading into the Orthodox “brothers.” “Our Father” together in the relatively announced, Armenia announced that it had church, grasping one another’s fore - Bartholomew, for his part, called for neutral Italian. changed its mind about the EU and would instead arms. And after Bartholomew delivered their meeting at Christ’s tomb to show They embraced each other on several be joining the Russia-led Customs Union. Now his remarks, Francis bent down and how fear, religious fanaticism and hatred occasions, drawing applause from the Armenia is scheduled to formally join the Customs kissed his hand in remarkable show of of people of other faiths and races can be ecumenical crowd inside the cavernous Union in June. So another big arms sale to papal respect for a patriarch when some overcome by love. “The message of the church lit by twinkling lanterns. After Azerbaijan would seem like an even bigger betray- 500 years ago a patriarch was forced to life-giving tomb is clear: love the other, arriving at the church piazza from sepa - al. kiss the feet of the pope. the different other, the followers of other rate entrances, they left in the same car The evening prayer service was the faiths and other confessions.” to dine together. spiritual highlight of Francis’ three-day The site of their meeting could not Though the three major denomina - Armenian Dies in pilgrimage to the Holy Land and capped have been more significant: Perhaps no tions adamantly stick to the status quo a momentous day in which the Israeli other piece of real estate on Earth sym - arrangement that governs separate wor - Aleppo and Palestinian presidents accepted bolizes the divisions of Christianity than ship at the church, none particularly ALEPPO, Syria — An Armenian died in the Hamidie Francis’ invitation to join him at the the Holy Sepulcher, where six Christian enjoys the arrangement. neighborhood in Aleppo on May 26 as a result of a Vatican next month to pray for peace. denominations practice their faith, yet “We are grown-ups. We should be bomb. Francis has said his primary reason occasionally come to blows in jealously able to sit down and finalize the whole Avetis Kebabjian was 86. His funeral was held in for coming to the region was to mark guarding their turf and times of worship. thing,” said the Rev. Samuel Aghoyan, St. Astvatsatsin Church on May 27. the 50th anniversary of the meeting in Given the centuries of tensions under - the Armenian superior of the Holy Earlier, on May 24, two rockets made of gas bar- Jerusalem between Pope Paul VI and lying the visit, the seating arrangements Sepulcher. rels fell in New Village Armenian neighborhood of Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras of and procession order alone were an “The amount of energy that’s Aleppo. As a result, resident Karapet Piloyan was Constantinople. Their 1964 embrace ecclesiastical and diplomatic feat of pro - required to maintain it is counterpro - injured. He was taken to a hospital. ended 900 years of mutual excommuni - tocol. Francis, Bartholomew and the ductive,” said the Rev. Athanasius Since early May, about three dozen Armenians cation and estrangement sparked by the leaders of the three main communities Macora, a Texas native and Franciscan have been injured in Aleppo. Great Schism of 1054, which split that share the church — Greek- monk who sits on an inter-church com - Christianity. Orthodox, Armenian and Roman mission that negotiates disputes at the Since that meeting, the two churches Catholic — all sat on the same sized, Holy Sepulcher. UNESCO Secretary have grown closer in personal friend - gilded red velvet chairs facing the shrine “It’s very silly. We laugh about it,” ships and even theological dialogue, but encasing Jesus’ tomb. said Anna Koulouris, a communications General Congratulates core differences remain, including over Bartholomew was the first to enter adviser with the Greek Orthodox Aznavour on 90th the primacy of the pope. the tomb, but Francis was the first to church. PARIS (Armenpress) — The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Secretary General Irina Bokova on May 20 sent a letter to Charles Aznavour, congratulat- Turkey’s Erodgan Slams Critics in German Speech ing him on his 90th birthday. In the letter, she writes, “I want to send you my COLOGNE (Reuters) — Turkey’s “Tayyip Erdogan knows the smell of from a largely figurehead role to that of warmest wishes on your birthday at the moment Tayyip Erdogan told a cheering arena of those coal mines. I have been inside a strong executive head of state. when Berlin will have the happiness to receive you 16,000 diaspora supporters in Germany those mines and have walked 4-5 kilo - “Turkey, with its mission, values on its stage on Thursday, May 22. Let me offer you on Saturday to integrate but not assim - meters in them,” he added. and its people is now part of Europe my special wishes since I know that you are a great ilate and slammed German criticism of The government was widely criticized and European politicians should see artist who was able to direct his look, aspirations his response to a mining tragedy, in a for its handling of the disaster. An and accept this. The problems of and expectations to the future horizon of opportu- defiant hour-long speech. Erdogan aide kicked a protester, for European politics will be solved with nities, but not to the past and homesickness, which Earlier in Cologne some 45,000 pro - which he was sacked, and Erdogan him - Turkey, not by using Turkey,” would be expressed by holidays yearly defined and testers, had marched against the self became embroiled in angry alterca - Erodgan added. determined. I know that you attach greatest impor- Turkish Prime Minister, according to tions. Critics said Erdogan’s very appear - tance to the tireless service to your art through authorities’ estimates, some wearing The Turkish leader went on to con - ance in Germany was inevitably an texts playing on the fibers of the beautiful chiseled miners’ helmets and with banners call - demn the “lies and intrigue” spread by appeal for support from expatriate heart all of which bear address and deep feelings. ing Erdogan a dictator, laying bare his opponents, calling this “black pro - Turks, significant voters after changes The heart of each person finds some reaction Turkey’s political divisions in the west - paganda.” to the electoral system. He was intro - there.” ern German city. In power for more than a decade, duced in Cologne as the “architect of Aznavour (Shahan Vaghinak Aznavouryan) was German Chancellor Angela Merkel Erdogan has weathered a bitter power the new Turkey”. born in Paris in 1924 to a family of Armenian had appealed to Erdogan to be sensitive struggle with an influential Islamic Some 3 million people of Turkish ori - migrants Mikayel and Knar Aznavouryans. in his address at a 10th anniversary rally preacher, as well as a graft scandal he gin live in Germany and 1.4 million Since the 1988 earthquake in Armenia, Aznavour of the Union of European Turkish says was engineered to undermine him. Turkish citizens can vote, a number has been helping the country through his charity, Democrats (UETD), amidst criticism Erdogan has often addressed mass equivalent to the electorate of Turkey’s Aznavour for Armenia. Together with his brother from German lawmakers that holding audiences of expatriate Turks when vis - fifth largest city Adana, according to the in-law and co-author Georges Garvarentz he wrote such a speech was insensitive 11 days iting Germany in rousing patriotic Institute of Turkish Studies and the song Pour toi Arménie, which was performed after a mining accident in the south - affairs with thousands waving the Integration (ZfTI). by a group of French artists and topped the charts western Turkish town of Soma killed Turkish flag. Under previous rules, expats could for 18 weeks. There is a square named after him in 301. He repeated remarks made in 2008 in only vote at Turkey’s borders. central Yerevan on Abovian Street, and a statue The event also falls a year after anti- which he warned Germany’s largest Martin Schluz, the Socialists’ candi - erected in Gumri. government protests swept Turkey, fired minority against assimilation. date for European Commission presi - In 2004 Aznavour received the title of National largely by a violent police crackdown on “Assimilation? No. I have said this dent, repeated his criticism of the visit Hero of Armenia, Armenia’s highest award. a small demonstration against develop - before and I’m saying it again — we on Saturday. “I’d prefer it if Prime During a career that has spanned more than 70 ment of a city park. don’t compromise our language, reli - Minister Erdogan concerned himself years, he has appeared in more than 60 films, writ- “A certain type of media here and gion and culture.” with Turkey’s problems instead of wag - ten more than 1,000 songs and sold more than 100 organizations have been trying to There is deep doubt in Europe about ing election campaigns abroad in million records worldwide. exploit the Soma disaster by insulting the direction Ankara is taking — two Cologne. But, we are a tolerant and the prime minister of the Turkish months before Erdogan is expected to democratic country in which of course Republic,” Erdogan said. stand for a presidency he aspires to turn a foreign leader can speak,” he said. 4 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR Community Ne ws

Armenian Assembly, Church Armenian National Leaders Institute Expand Congratulate Genocide Discussion Syrian In Mainstream Media WASHINGTON — As the world marked Genocide Awareness month this past April, rep - Patriarch resentatives of the Armenian Assembly of America and the Armenian National Institute NEW YORK — On Tuesday, May 13, (ANI) broadened the discussion of the Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate Armenian Genocide with the American public of the Diocese of the Armenian Church and abroad with several appearances in nation - of America (Eastern), hosted an ecu - Speakers at the Hye Geen Young Circle conference discuss the sports industry, cul - al and international media. menical gathering at the Diocesan ture and the Armenian diaspora. From left to right: graduate student Megan On the heels of the Islamic militant attack on Center in honor of Mor Ignatius Aphrem Fornasar; coach and educator Nancy Gavoor; sports business executive Cory Kessab Armenians launched from Turkey, II Karim, the former Metropolitan of the Shakarian and martial arts specialist Edmond Tarvedyan. Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny Syriac Archdiocese of the Eastern United told the International Business Times, “For States who was recently elected as Armenian Americans, current images of Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church. Armenian homes being looted and occupied in Leaders of the Roman Catholic, AGBU Hye Geen Young Kessab, and innocent lives tragically lost, invoke Oriental Orthodox, Episcopalian and painful memories of the early phases of the first Eastern Orthodox churches came togeth - genocide of the 20th century at the hands of er at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral for a Circle Conference Takes on Ottoman Turks.” prayer service, followed by a reception to The Assembly’s efforts to secure the release honor Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem. of the Armenian Orphan Rug from the White Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Sports in Shaping Nation House also made headlines. “The Armenian Catholicos of All Armenians, visiting New Assembly ramped up pressure by displaying a LOS ANGELES — The relationship between athletics and international affairs York after having traveled to Rome, ‘sister rug’ in Boston and Boca Raton, Fla.,” was the theme of this year’s AGBU Hye Geen Young Circle conference, which where he met with Pope Francis, reported the Miami Herald, while Ardouny told brought together a panel of experts to discuss the sports industry, culture and the presided over the gathering. KPPC-Southern California Radio that, “The dis - Armenian diaspora. The ninth annual event, “Sports: Shaping a Nation: An Arena The assembled church leaders congrat - play of this tangible expression of gratitude for for Diplomacy, Business and Identity,” drew more than 130 guests to Woodbury ulated the new patriarch on this latest America’s humanitarian intervention to save University in Burbank in March. calling in his ministry, and expressed the survivors of the Armenian Genocide is a In her opening address, Hye Geen founder and chair Sona Yacoubian described their solidarity as he embarks on leading positive development.” the inspiration for the 2014 topic. Recalling her childhood school in Lebanon, she a church that finds itself beleaguered by Following President Barack Obama’s April 24 remarked, “Every school day began with exercises to help us focus on our studies statement which again fell short of his 2008 and every year we celebrated the Navasartian Games, which gathered youth teams. campaign promise to acknowledge the We hope this conference reinforces that sense of solidarity.” Armenian Genocide, Assembly Board Chairman Father Zaven Arzoumanian, representing the Western Diocese of the Armenian Hirair Hovnanian told Radio Free Church, and Bared Maronian, the award-winning Europe/Radio Liberty’s (RFE/RL) Armenia filmmaker of “Orphans of the Genocide,” joined service, that “In 1981 President Ronald Reagan Yacoubian in welcoming the crowd. Father squarely acknowledged the Armenian Genocide Arzoumanian pointed to the positive example set by ... This accurately reflects America’s values and Ararat Chrissian, the turn-of-the-century coach who record of speaking out against genocide, and I instilled discipline, character and fair play in count - welcome this approach.” “In a related develop - less young athletes. Maronian shared a clip from his ment, a member of the Assembly’s board, Van documentary and highlighted the work of Vahan Krikorian, praised the influential American Cheraz, who, following the Armenian Genocide, Jewish Committee (AJC) for urging Turkey to organized sporting events in a Gumri orphanage to ‘address the realities’ of the Armenian geno - teach youth the necessary skills for building cide,” the same RFE/RL report said. resilience and endurance in the face of suffering. In addition, former Assembly board member Led by moderator Manouk Akopyan, a digital con - Hye Geen founder and Mark Momjian, Esq. discussed the Armenian tent producer for the National Football League, the chair Sona Yacoubian wel - Genocide on WBAI/NYC 99.5 FM Radio. On panelists discussed the power of sports diplomacy comes guests to the con - Sunday, April 13, Momjian appeared on the today. Nancy Gavoor, a personal trainer and educa - ference. show “Beyond the Pale,” which explores cut - tor, recounted her experience as an envoy for the US Archbishop Khajag Barsamian greets ting edge Jewish culture and offers local, nation - Information Agency program, Building Democracy Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II Karim al, and international political debate and analy - and Diplomacy with Sports. In that role, she saw states strengthen ties through on the plaza of St. Vartan Armenian sis from a Jewish perspective. Cathedral. various events — table tennis championships in China, arm wrestling competitions The Assembly’s activities surrounding the in Iran, as well as soccer matches between Armenia and Turkey. decision by Suffolk University Law School to Sociology graduate student Megan Fornasar and martial arts trainer Edmond invite Anti-Defamation League (ADL) National the conflict in Syria. Tarverdyan noted the ways sports cultivate a sense of national identity across Director Abraham Foxman to deliver this year’s Metropolitan Tikhon, head of the countries, and confidence among youth. Fornasar, who researches multicultural - commencement address was also noteworthy. Orthodox Church in America, delivered ism at the University of California, Los Angeles, commented: “Especially when the “‘If the ADL now supports the pending the invocation, and Archbishop national flag is raised, the games we play create a powerful, shared experience. At Congressional resolution, this would truly be a Barsamian welcomed the clergy to the the same time, they bring together people and groups who may not otherwise courageous act against injustice,’ said Anthony Diocesan Center. “It is a great pleasure interact.” Tarverdyan is responsible for sending athletes to those high-profile Barsamian, a 1990 Suffolk Law School gradu - for me to greet you, on this deeply mean - games; he has trained world boxing champion Vic Darchinian and Olympian boxer ate and member of the Armenian Assembly of ingful occasion,” he said. “This is a won - Vanes Martirosyan. In his presentation, Tarverdyan relayed how rewarding it is to America,” to the Boston Globe. In 2007, derful opportunity for us to come togeth - help children and teenagers become proficient in martial arts. Foxman and the ADL publicly opposed the er, in the warm embrace of our shared Yet, the path to stardom can create controversy, speaker Cory Shakarian noted. Armenian Genocide resolution that was pend - Christian heritage — to give physical As a sports business executive and sales and marketing professional, Shakarian ing in Congress. expression to our sense of friendship and has witnessed athletes’ exorbitant salaries continue to rise. He argued that the With over 30,000 downloads in the first few common mission in the world today.” phenomenon has deterred talented young people from pursuing careers in science weeks, the release of “The Last Refuge & the He went on to speak about Patriarch and technology, and from making promising contributions to those fields. The con - First Defense: The Armenian Church, Ignatius Aphrem’s spiritual leadership in sensus among all the panelists was that athletics must be part of a well-rounded Echmiadzin, and the Armenian Genocide,” a America, and the friendship that has curriculum for students, that coaches should act as educators and that schools free, online exhibit jointly produced by ANI, the grown between them. “Throughout these should encourage team sports. Armenian Genocide Museum of America years, I have been privileged to witness The ninth annual Young Circle conference was also an opportunity to honor (AGMA), the Assembly and in cooperation with his virtues of energy, spirituality, wisdom, Richard N. Demirjian, a key member of the California and Michigan diaspora com - the Mother See of Holy Echmiadzin, the and humility,” Barsamian said. “He exem - munities. Demirjian is the author of multiple books including Armenian- Armenian Genocide Museum-Institute in plifies the best qualities of the Christian American & Canadian Who’s Who of Outstanding Athletes, Coaches and Sport Yerevan, and the Republic of Armenia National heritage of the East; and he has given Personalities and a co-founder of the Western Armenian Athletic Association. Archives, also expanded the scope and reach of these virtues exemplary life and vitality When the event came to a close, the audience gave him, the participants and the genocide awareness. Appearing on Voice of here in the West.” Hye Geen Young Circle repeated rounds of applause. see PATRIARCH, page 10 America-Armenia, ANI Director Dr. Rouben see MEDIA, page 5 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 5 COMMUNITY NEWS

Interdisciplinary Conference Led by UCLA to Take Place on May 31 Merrimack Valley LOS ANGELES — The UCLA Research the Cotsen Institute of Archaeology and Zaruhy Warming, and a project on archaeological Genocide Committee Program in Armenian Archaeology & Sara Chitjian of the Hampartzoum and human DNA. Future projects outside the Ethnography at the Cotsen Institute of OvsannaChitjian Foundation, whose previous Republic of Armenia will include the documen - Donates $3,500 Archaeology announces its inaugural event, an successful projects have included the excava - tation of the Armenian cultural heritage world - interdisciplinary conference that brings togeth - tions of the Areni-1 cave complex in the wide, including collaborative projects in Turkey NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — In keep - er 14 subfields within Armenian Studies. The Republic of Armenia. The discoveries of the old - and other countries, as well as the preservation ing with its annual tradition of assisting conference seeks to assess the field holistically, est leather shoe and the earliest wine press of the ethnographic legacy of the Armenian Armenian charities, the Armenian and participants from eight countries will pre - have changed the world’s understanding of Genocide in the Armenian Diaspora. All of Genocide Commemorative Committee sent position papers on May 31, and interact human civilization. these projects are aimed at the long-term goal of Merrimack Valley distributed $3,550 with each other and the academic community Future plans of the Research Program of increasing the visibility of the Armenian cul - to four projects. of Southern California at Lenart Auditorium include several projects that will expand its tural heritage worldwide, with its inclusion in Charitable contributions paid out this Fowler Museum, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. activities in the Republic of Armenia, such as textbooks and through mass media. year were $1,300 to Armenian Syrian The Research Program was established environmental research, which will open new For further information, contact Dr. Gegory Relief; $1,000 each to both the through a long-standing partnership between venues in addressing the issues of Global Areshian at [email protected]/. Women’s Resource Center (battered women) and Fuller Center for Housing in Armenia, along with $250 to the Armenian Genocide Education Genocide Education Bill Unanimously Passes Calif. Assembly Committee Committee of Merrimack Valley. Over its 20-year existence, the group EDUCATION, from page 1 Holocaust and subsequent genocides. Assembly Education and Appropriations has donated some $75,000 to charities passed AB 659 which encourages inclusion of Consequently, the Holocaust (which must be Committees unanimously adopted AB 659, both here and abroad. The funds come oral history components in the instruction of taught per state law) cannot be taught or another bill introduced by Nazarian. The bill, from net proceeds from an annual com - human rights issues, including the Armenian understood comprehensively without which is on its way to the California State memoration in North Andover. Genocide. This law is a step in the right direc - instructing students about the Armenian Senate, encourages schools to use oral histo - This year’s commemoration drew 220 tion, but not enough to achieve the objective Genocide,” she continued. ries when teaching about the Armenian guests featuring a memorial concert In the weeks leading up to State Assembly Genocide and other acts against humanity. given by the Arev Armenian Folk consideration of the measure, the ANCA AB 659 set the stage for the presentation of Ensemble. Western Region worked closely with legisla - AB1915. Plans are currently being made for tors to ensure they learned of the broad, Once adopted by the full State Assembly next year’s centennial observance. enthusiastic support for the measure, espe - and the State Senate and signed into law by cially during the organization’s 2014 the Governor, AB 1915 would codify the Advocacy Day when over 350 activists from Armenian Genocide into the curriculum of California including a group of students from 7th to 12th grade Social Science and History Armenian Assembly, San Marino High School who have taken up classes. It would also recommend publication the Genocide Education as their senior pro - about the Armenian Genocide and other Armenian National ject, met with over 70 California legislators. genocides including Cambodia, Rwanda and On Wednesday April 9, ANCA Western Darfur in instructional materials provided to Institute Expand Californian Assembly member Nazarian Region Education Committee Chair Alice instructors about crimes against humanity. Genocide Discussion Introduces AB 659 Petrossian and ANCA Western Region Currently, California is one of 11 states, Education Committee Executive Member and including Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, writer Kay Mouradian testified in front of the Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New In Mainstream Media of instruction across all public schools across California State Assembly Education York, Ohio, Rhode Island and Virginia, which MEDIA, from page 4 the state. What is necessary is enactment of Committee in support of the bill along with have the Armenian Genocide included in Adalian discussed the unique focus of the AB 1915 which would mandate such instruc - joint author of AB 1915 Assembly member their curriculum. The California Model exhibit and its broad appeal. ANI’s website tion while providing teachers with the tools Katcho Achadjian, and Assembly Education Curriculum developed by the Department of registered one million hits during March and that they need.” Committee members, Chair Joan Buchanan Education, includes the Armenian Genocide April of this year alone. “Within the context of modern world his - and Assembly member Rocky J. Chavez prior as a recommended topic to teach. However, On April 24, Adalian also discussed Turkish tory, the Armenian Genocide was a pivotal to its unanimous passed. schools aren’t required to follow this model Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s April event which served as a progenitor to the Further, earlier this year, the State curriculum. 23 announcement and President Obama’s statement with Arabic-language Al Hurra TV broadcast throughout the Middle East. In addition to reaching international audiences on Armenian Genocide remembrance day, Adalian told Business Insider that “‘[Obama] has made unambiguous statements as a sen - ator and in his presidential campaign to fully recognize the genocide ... But he has avoided using the actual word for obvious reasons: pressure from Turkey, whom the US consid - ers an important ally.’” A pillar of the Assembly’s Mission is to expand the organization’s pioneering research, education, and advocacy campaigns for universal affirmation of the Armenian Genocide and to secure Diaspora-wide con - sensus for the government of the Republic of Armenia to deal with the consequences of this crime against humanity.

Entertainment Fridays and Saturdays 6 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR OBITUARY Genocide Survivor from Kessab Celebrates 104th Birthday

PASADENA, Calif. — Joseph Manjikian cele - to go back to their village, as it became part of brated his 104th birthday at the Pasadena Syria after World War I. In recent weeks, Highlands with more than 100 people in atten - Kessab, which has been inhabited by a dance including family, friends, and communi - Christian Armenian population for centuries, ty leaders. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) presented has been in the media spotlight as it was Manjikian with a Certificate of Congressional Recognition honoring his life. Sierra Madre Mayor John Harabedian, Armenian National Committee of America board members Raffi Hamparian and Raffi Kassabian, Kessab Education Association President Esther Tognozzi, and Armenian Bar Association President Garo Ghazarian were also in atten - dance. “My father is the richest man from Kessab,” said Dr. Joseph Manjikian with Rep. Judy Chu Haig Manjikian, his son. “Having survived the Armenian Genocide of 1915 attacked by extremist militant groups that and suffering the loss of family and close entered Syria through the Turkish border and friends, he understands that the real wealth in drove out the local villagers from their ances - life lies in the ability to cherish and appreciate tral lands. time spent with family, friends, and communi - Manjikian eventually immigrated to ty.” California in 1950 with his wife and two chil - Manjikian was born on May 9, 1910 in dren, followed by a third child born in the US. Kessab, when it was part of the Ottoman His story symbolizes the American Dream. He Empire. During the Armenian Genocide, his worked as an auto mechanic for 40 years sup - father was conscripted into the Ottoman Army porting his family and establishing new roots only to be murdered along with fellow in Los Angeles. All his children represent first Armenians. The villagers were forced into generation college graduates and raised their exile, marched into the dessert of Der Zor, families with a strong Armenian-American along with countless other Armenians from upbringing. In his later years, he most enjoys the region. He was able to survive by eating being in the company of his eight grandchil - weeds his mother collected along the way. By dren, seven great grandchildren, and all good fortune, survivors from Kessab were able extended family and friends. Nardolillo Funeral Home OBITUARY Est. 1906 John K. Najarian, Jr. Arthur A. Maranian Sr. Rhode Island’s Only Licensed Armenian Funeral Director BELMONT, Mass. — Arthur A. Maranian Sr., JIRAIR HOVSEPIAN PHOTO 1278 Park Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 942-1220 of Belmont, formerly of Lexington, died on May 1111 Boston Neck Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 (401) 789-6300 22, 2014. He was 86. www.nardolillo.com He was born on May 1928 in Arlington, one of nine children of the late Aram and Alice Maranian. He attended schools in Arlington as well as Don Bosco in Boston for printing. At the Telephone (617) 924-7400 age of 9, he was an entrepreneur. Following his discharge from the US Marine Corps, he started his own business in Aram Bedrosian Somerville. In 1950, he married the late Helen Maranian of Lowell. They had two children, Funeral Home, Inc. Arthur Jr. and Linda. He worked for a printing company affiliated Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945 with the US government and was in charge of the Special marine Unit from the Pentagon that MARION BEDROSIAN was providing and rushing secret documents 558 MOUNT AUBURN STREET PAUL BEDROSIAN and map essential to the Korean War effort. WATERTOWN, MA 02472 LARRY BEDROSIAN This experience provided him with a thorough understanding of lithography. In 1953, he returned to Boston and started Maran Printing Edward D. Jamakordzian, Jr. d/b/a Service, Inc., in Arlington. Over the years, Maran Printing Service became one of the most unique printing plants in the Boston area, receiving many awards for outstanding work in Arthur A. Maranian Sr. Edward D. Jamie, Jr. the printing trade. He made special presentations for President Funeral Chapel Gerald R. Ford, the Bicentennial, the US Postal and his wife Karen and Linda Mitchell and her Serving the entire Armenian Community Service, the US Constitution Museum, the husband Ken’ four grandchildren and seven Any Hour • Any Distance • Any Location opening of the Kennedy Library, and other his - great-grandchildren. He was the brother of Call (718) 224-2390 Toll Free (888) 224-6088 toric programs. Aram, Jack, Lucy Balian, Dorothy Parsikian and He received numerous expressions of grati - the late Leo, George, Michael and Ann Bus. Reg. 189-06 Liberty Ave., Hollis, NY 11412 tude, among them from President Ford, the Haroutunian. Also survived by many loving Consultation Office: 217-04 Northern Blvd., (Suite 23), Bayside,NY 11361 While House and the Kennedy family. nieces and nephews. His love for history and printing was recog - He is also survived by his companion and nized by his peers in the New England Printer friend Nadia Karnik. and National Graphic magazines, as well as the Funeral service was at Holy Trinity Armenian Mirror-Spectator and Boston-area Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., Cambridge papers. on Wednesday, May 28. Interment was in He was a longstanding member and support - Lincoln Cemetery, Lincoln, MA. GF UiNrEaRgAoL sHiaOMn E er of Holy trinity Armenian Church of Greater Memorial gifts may be made to The Quimby James “Jack” Giragosian, CPC Boston along with other Armenian churches Center For Geriatric Care at Mount Auburn Mark J. Giragosian and organizations. Hospital, 300 Mount Auburn St., Suite 517, Funeral Counselors He was a member of Mystic Valley Masonic Cambridge, MA 02138, Attention – John R. Lodge, the Knights of Vartan, and the Aleppo 576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606 Anderson M.D. www.giragosianfuneralhome.com Shriners. Arrangements were by the Aram Bedrosian He leaves his children, Arthur Maranian Jr. Funeral Home. S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 7 COMMUNITY NEWS

Clergy Gather for Annual Conference Armenian Festival

NEW YORK — The 112th Diocesan Assembly guilds. Clergy offered suggestions, which were stronghold of our faith, and a source of spiri - To Take Place June was preceded by a clergy conference, held April later presented to the Central Council. tual nourishment for every Armenian.” 28 to 30, at the Seminary of the Immaculate Presentations followed on Christian educa - Diocese Plans 7 and 8 in Conception in Huntington, NY. Archbishop tion programs at various parishes. Clergy Vahan Janjigian presented the Diocese’s new Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of spoke about activities they have offered and strategic plan, which was developed by the Watervliet the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), shared ideas and advice on how to strengthen Diocesan Council. The plan focuses on six key presided at the event where members of the the faith of their parishioners. Among other areas: enhancing worship, offering continuing WATERVLIET, N.Y. — The annual clergy gathered for prayer, services, and a topics discussed were liturgical matters, the education opportunities for clergy, strengthen - Armenian Festival will take place on series of presentations on various aspects of requirements for ordination to the diaconate ing youth ministry, developing Christian and Saturday, June 7, from 12 to 8 p.m. and the ministry. and sub-diaconate, the distribution of holy Armenian education programs, creating out - Sunday, June 8, from 12 to 5 p.m. on In a written message, Karekin II, Supreme communion during Lent, and Diocesan youth reach initiatives to prospective members and the grounds of St. Peter Armenian Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, programs. cultivating stewards. Church, 100 Troy Schenectady Road. encouraged clergy of the Eastern Diocese to On April 29, the Rev. Ghevond Ajamian cele - Another highlight was a presentation by Dr. Admission and parking for the event remain firm in their calling and to continue brated the Divine Liturgy. A requiem service Lynn Cetin, who introduced the Armenian are free. their service to the Armenian people. was offered for the souls of the Very Rev. Fr. American Health Professionals Organization The festival — known throughout the Among the first presenters at the meeting Shnork Kasparian, Very Rev. Fr. Varujan (AAHPO) and invited its members to speak region for its authentic Armenian food were visiting priests from the Mother See of Kabarajian, and Rev. Fr. Garen Gdanian. about what the organization offers to the and the “Hye Burger,” a traditionally- Holy Echmiadzin, Rev. Hovel Kamaghelyan In his message to the clergy, Barsamian Armenian communities in the United States seasoned burger that debuted last year and Rev. Markos Mankasaryan. Kamaghelyan reflected on the strength of the Armenian and Armenia. and became an instant hit. All the tra - explained how the church in Armenia is work - Church in America and commended the clergy Leslie Aslanian Williams, coordinator of ditional grilled meats as well as sweet ing to establish orphanages, soup kitchens, and for upholding the values of Christian brother - scholarships at AGBU, outlined scholarship and savory pastries will be available. other social services. Mankasaryan spoke hood. He went on to speak about the impor - opportunities available to clergy and lay lead - Back by popular demand this year is about youth programs offered by Holy tance of St. Nersess Seminary in preparing the ers of the Armenian Church. Shaké Derderian the John Berberian Ensemble, who will Echmiadzin. next generation of priests for the Armenian of SIMA Tours spoke about tours of Armenia, provide live Armenian music throughout Dr. Robert Gunn, director of the program in Church in America, and noted the seminary’s historic Armenia and Jerusalem, which are the two-day event. The group features pastoral care and counseling at the Blanton collaboration with seminaries in Jerusalem and available to parishes wishing to organize pil - John Berberian on oud, Mal Barsamian Peale Institute and Counseling Center in New Armenia. grimages. on the clarinet, Harry Bedrossian on key - York City, gave a presentation titled “Love and He also encouraged the clergy to continue The Clergy Conference was chaired by the board and vocals, and Charles Loss: Counseling with the Bereaved and the supporting the Armenian Patriarchates of Rev. Untzag Nalbandian. Rev. Vartan Joulfayan Dermenjian on the dumbeg . Divorcing.” He explained the experience of Constantinople and Jerusalem by organizing served as vice chair, Rev. Abraham Malkhasyan The weekend will also be filled with loss, and stressed the importance of the parish pilgrimages to historic Armenia and the served as the Armenian secretary and Rev. cooking demonstrations, Armenian priest’s role in the healing process. Holy Land. Turning to Holy Echmiadzin, Ghevond Ajamian served as the English secre - dancing, carnival games, bounce rides, The Very Rev. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Barsamian said, When Holy Echmiadzin, our tary. and a special “Apple” raffle where par - Vicar, and Very Rev. Aren Jebejian led a dis - Mother See, is strong, we, too, are strength - The conference was hosted by Holy Martyrs ticipants will have a chance to win one cussion on how the Women’s Guild Central ened because we all belong to one body — the Church of Bayside, NY, under the leadership of of the following items (tickets are just Council can continue to reach out to parish Armenian Church. Holy Echmiadzin is the its pastor, Rev. Abraham Malkhasyan. $10): Apple MacBook Laptop Computer or $1,000 cash, Apple iPad, $250 Cash, $200 gift certificate at Top Custom Jewelers, and basket of apple cheer (featuring Harvest Spirits Farm St. Stephen’s Armenian School Establishes Araxie Poladian Scholarship Fund Distillery Core Vodka and Applejack Brandy). WATERTOWN — St. Stephen’s Armenian ers will be greatly missed. Armenian Elementary School has distinguished The Armenian Festival is held rain or Elementary School (SSAES) announced recently To honor her, the school has established the itself with its bilingual curriculum, academic shine, with covered seating available in that Araxie Poladian will retire at the end of 2013- Araxie Poladian Scholarship Fund. Those who strength, devoted staff and low student-to- the event of inclement weather. 2014 academic year, after 21 years of service at would like to express their appreciation to teacher ratio. St. Stephen’s is fully accredited For more information, contact the SSAES and a total of 44 years of teaching. Poladian may send their contribution to: St. by the Association of Independent Schools in church office, e-mail Poladian has left her mark as an outstanding Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School, Att: New England (AISNE), the accrediting body for [email protected], or visit preschool teacher. Her dedication to her stu - Araxie Poladian Scholarship Fund, 47 Nichols independent elementary schools. www.stpeterarmenianchurch.com. dents, her commitment to the SSAES mission Ave., Watertown, MA 02472. To learn more about SSAES, visit and her example as a role model to fellow teach - Founded in 1984, the St. Stephen’s www.ssaes.org. American and International Art and Antiques

Altair Auctions located in Norwood, MA will hold an American and International Art and Antiques auction on Saturday May 31, 2014, begin - ning at 10 am. The auction will be held onsite at 151 Carnegie Row, Norwood,. Preview days for the auction will be held on Thursday, May 29, and Friday May 30. The auction will feature 20th modern art, includ - ing fine jewelry, cameras, art glass, furniture, sculptures and painting. The auctions will include work for well-known Armenian artists Jean Carzou, Jean Jansem, Hagop Hagopian, Aleksander Gevorkyan, and Boris Hakopyan. Catalogs featuring the art - work for the auction will be available prior to the day of sale. Breakfast and lunch will be catered dur - ing the auction. Online bidding is available through liveauction - eers.com and invalu - ableauctions.com. Contact with questions at 1-781-349-8388 or online at altair-auc - tions.com. Lot 291 - Jean Jansem (French 1920-2013) Untitled. 8 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Heritage Park Raises $95,000 at Chefs’ Fundraiser

CHEFS, from page 1 and Charles Street in Boston. the Royal Sonesta; Brian Poe of Poe’s Kitchen, Speaking at the program were two original the Tip Tap Room and Estelle’s; Dante de supporters of the Heritage Park in the State Magistris of dante and il Casale; Gerard Tice of House, Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Omni Parker House; Jason Reed of Vicki Lee’s; Koutoujian and Secretary of Labor and Jeffrey P. Fournier of 51 Lincoln and Waban Workforce Development Rachel Kaprielian. Kitchen; Jody Adams of Rialto and Trade; Julia Said Koutoujian, “The entire park is a dream Brant of North 26, Millennium Bostonian come true but it can easily vanish if we don’t Hotel; Nathan Kibarian of the Ritz Carlton; maintain it. Not only its construction but also Seta Dakessian of Seta’s Café and Vicki Lee its future. I want this park to be there when my Boyajian of Vicki Lee’s. children can come independently and their chil - In addition, the Royal Sonesta had also dren as well.” donated its space. He singled out Gov. Deval Patrick for his sup - About 360 people attended the bash, all expressing their pride in the creation of the park and their hope for its perpetual maintenance. Lu Ann Ohanian, one of the guests, said, “It feels so good to have representation of our her - itage in Boston.” After a cocktail reception in the hallway,

Massachusetts. Of course, Tice explained, it is thanked those who had helped make the not a pie at all but sponge cake with custard fill - evening possible. She said, “Hats off to the Nancy Tutunjian with Armen Mahserejian ing and ganache on top. It was called a pie Royal Sonesta Hotel and all the chefs! Their because it was baked it a pie tin. Tice’s creation generosity and commitment to our park are was incredibly moist, delicious and beautifully incredibly impressive. That coupled the enthusi - port. presented. astic Benefit Committee and other extraordi - Kaprielian stressed the positive influence of Nathan Kibarian had made a dessert called nary gifts in kind contributed to the evening’s the park on the community and its celebration Pasta Flora, featuring a Greek-style sponge cake delights.” of Armenians’ “ancient culture and our martyrs with apricot preserves and a white chocolate Other participants included Mark that we honor every single day in this park.” Royal Sonesta Hotel Executive Chef Brian ganache in honor of his grandmother, helped Mooradian’s MEM Tea Imports, wines from the Also speaking was James Kalustian, president Dandro with chefs from the hotel and its Art Bar of the Heritage Park Foundation, who thanked prepare to serve his shepherd’s pie inspired by the crowd “for making the Armenian Heritage his mother, Sheila Dandro. Park a reality. We can rise to the challenge and accomplish anything we want to.” guests filed into the Royal Sonesta’s grand ball - Kalustian said the foundation needs $2 mil - room, where small tables were set up as well as lion to ensure having in perpetuity the $80,000 booths by the chefs. necessary annually for the park’s upkeep. To One of the chefs that was mobbed and ended date, $1.1 million has been raised. up running out of food was Fournier of 51 To send a contribution, mail a check made Lincoln and Waban Kitchen, who was serving payable to Armenian Heritage Foundation, to: lamb kibbe (raw, ground lamb) with parsley Charles P. Guleserian, Vice President, Armenian salad, based on his grandfather’s recipe. He Heritage Foundation, 25 Flanders Road, Trade Executive Chef Andrew Hebert with Trade Benefit Committee members Martha Mensoian Belmont, MA 02478 or visit recalled that Barbara Tellalian, a member of the and Rialto chef/owner Jody Adams and Trade’s and Christopher Mensoian with their father, benefit committee, and her husband, Don, the Meghan Brady Michael Mensoian http://www.armenianheritagepark.org/ to architect and designer of the park, including its donate online. labyrinth and abstract sculpture, had frequented Armenian Heritage Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Waban Kitchen and started talking to him, not by fellow chef Andrew Yeo. Their dessert was Tutunjian Estate Vineyards and Iggy’s Breads tax-exempt, non-profit organization. knowing he was Armenian because of his French elegant and delicious. of the World. Each guest got a goody bag with last name. His mother, Fournier said, is a Kibarian said he was delighted to partake in flavored Boyajian oil and vinegar as well as nuts “Mansourian” and his Armenian grandfather the program, saying, “[The Heritage Park] is a from Fastachi, now with stores in Watertown Photos by Leo Gozbekian was the one who encouraged him to be a chef. great thing for Boston. It is something to rep - Seta Dakessian’s table was also mobbed, resent the Armenian Genocide and also all the where she and her mother served tiny sand - other communities that experienced hardships. wiches with louleh kabab (grilled beef/lamb It’s giving something back.” patties) served in a fresh tomato/onion sauce in Yeo praised the sculpture, calling it “very homemade lavash (flat bread). powerful.” “I am here to support the Armenian Heritage Brian Dandro’s deconstructed shepherd’s pie Park,” said Dakessian. also won raves. He said he had decided to help Gerard Tice’s mini Boston cream pies created out because in the past he had worked with a lot of buzz. He said his creation was a tribute Barbara Tellalian in Access Sport America. to Armenian-French Chef M. Sanzian, the chef “Anything she is supporting I am happy to sup - at the Parker House in 1856, who had created port,” Dandro said. the treat, now the official dessert of Barbara Tellalian took no credit and instead

Vicki Lee Chef-Owner Vicki Lee Boyajian and Iggy’s Breads of the World Pedja Kostic with Executive Chef Jason Reed, second from right Kate and Mark Mooradian, founder MEM Tea with staff and Karnak Farms

John and Megan Connelly with Elizabeth Cerda Three generations: Noel Talanian, Nevart and Middlesex Sheriff Peter Koutoujian Talanian and Gail Talanian O’Reilly S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 9 COMMUNITY NEWS Engineer, Musician, Columnist Bedrosyan Addresses Detroit Commemoration

DETROIT — On Sunday, April 27, the Tekeyan Cultural Association and the Detroit United Committee sponsored Raffi Bedrosyan as a speaker for the 99th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. The event was held at the AGBU Alex & Marie Manoogian School. The program was opened by Diana Alexanian, Chair, Tekeyan Cultural Association and Edmond Azadian, emcee. Bedrosyan presented a unique approach to recognition of the Armenian Genocide. Rather than describing the dead and gone victims of 1915, he spoke about what was left behind in historic Armenia — the living victims, tens of thousands of orphans who ended up being

Edmond Azadian presents a copy of Legacy of to Raffi Bedrosyan. Armenian Heritage

Raffi Bedrosyan, Diana Alexanian, Edmond Azadian (Emcee)

Turkified and Islamicized, or girls who became includes; The Armenian Assembly, ADL- maids, wives or slaves in Turkish and Kurdish Ramgavar Party, AGBU, Armenian Research families. Center, University of Michigan Dearborn, CSAI, Bedrosyan also spoke about the thousands of Detroit Armenian Women’s Club, Daughters of churches and schools left behind, mostly Vartan, Zabel Oytag Chapter, Knights of Vartan, destroyed or converted to other uses. However, Nareg Shavarshan Lodge, Tekeyan Cultural Shot of speaker Raffi Bedrosyan and Edmond he explained how the recent reconstruction of Association and Wayne State University Society Azadian Diyarbakir’s Surp Giragos Church, the largest of Armenian Students. Armenian church in the Middle East, has trig - gered a reawakening and returning to their roots among the hidden and Islamized Armenians, the grandchildren of the 1915 Raffi Bedrosyan orphans left behind. Through dialogue with open-minded Turks and Kurds, opinion-mak - ers in media and acade - mia, a small but fast grow - ing number of the Turkish population has stopped believing the state version of denialist history about 1915, and has started to seek the truth toward acknowledg - ing the Armenian Genocide. A reception fol - lowed where attendees were able to mingle and talk with Bedrosyan. The event was a great success and many compliments were paid to Bedrosyan and the organizing Front, from left, Raffi Bedrosyan, Nora Azadian, Edmond Azadian; back, from left, Hagop Mayor of Southfield, Brenda Lawrence groups. The Detroit Alexanian, Diana Alexanian, Garineh Koundakjian United Committee Women’s Guild Plans New Programs at Annual Assembly

productive, visionary and beautiful projects find their origin Responses to the second question included creating mean - By Florence Avakian in the work of the Women’s Guild Central Council (WGCC) ingful ministries for one’s particular city; pilgrimages to other and its local guilds.” Armenian and non-Armenian churches; encouraging pilgrim - Barsamian’s address to the Women’s Guild Assembly was ages to Jerusalem; advocating for the needs in Armenia NEW YORK — In opening the meeting of the Women’s part of activities surrounding the 112th Diocesan Assembly. through the Fund for Armenian Relief (FAR) and other Guild Assembly in New York on Thursday morning, May 1, Following a welcoming message by WGCC chair Charlotte groups; and planning technological symposia. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Sevazlian to the more than 90 representatives and parish Diocesan Vicar General the Very Rev. Simeon Odabashian Armenian Church of America (Eastern), stated: “We view this priests in attendance, the 28th annual Women’s Guild presented proposals for consideration from the 2014 Clergy week’s meetings as a homecoming for our Diocese, a reunion Assembly officers were presented: chair Nancy Kassabian, Conference to the Women’s Guild Assembly. They included of all our parish representatives at St. Vartan Cathedral, our vice-chair Yeretzgin Patricia Buttero, secretary Linda enlightening women in the parishes about the mission, pur - Mayr Dajar.” Harutunian and parliamentarians Barbara Haroutunian and pose and activities of the Women’s Guild; creating opportu - “The sense of family, of common purpose and shared des - Janice Kavjian. nities for fellowship and retreats with women in different tiny, of loving concern and hospitality” is brought to vivid life Sitting around tables, the participants delved into discus - regions and parishes; ensuring that representatives from by members of the Women’s Guild, he said. sions centered around two questions. The first revolved every region took part in the Women’s Guild Assembly; “Without these precious qualities, the mission of the around how to get more women to be part of the women’s receiving guidance in organizing the annual Saintly Women’s church would be reduced to mere doing, just a series of jobs, guilds, the second concerned the role women’s guilds could Day program; studying the organizations of other Christian instead of a way of life, a way of living,” declared the Primate, play in accomplishing the Diocesan theme, “Living the groups; and having an “executive secretary” appointed by the who went on to relate important events that women were Gospel of Christ.” Primate to support women’s ministry and the WGCC known for in Christ’s life and in the Gospel. Among the many suggestions presented for the first ques - throughout the Diocese. “We have seen these stories vindicated in the lives and tion were recruitment and outreach for the young; meaningful The newly-elected officers of the Women’s Guild Central experiences of our own survivors and martyrs, stories from ministries within the community for the sick, poor and young; Council are chair Charlotte Sevazlian, vice-chair Nancy our mayrigs and hayrigs a century ago. They serve as an mentoring from elders; being a role model for another person; Kassabian, recording secretary Marian Orcutt Varteresian, example today of what it truly means to ‘Live the Gospel of creating a junior women’s guild; the teaching of technology by corresponding secretary Yn. Patricia Buttero, treasurer Christ.’ Women like yourselves, in roles of leadership and the young to their elders; education through retreats and Bible Hasmig Minassian, assistant treasurer Meline Grigorian and ministry, have played a crucial role at critical points in study; honoring members for their contributions; and most of advisors Sherry Edward, Barbara Haroutunian and Janice Christian and Armenian history. And today, many of our most all personal engagement and interaction. Kavjian. 10 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMUNITY NEWS Church Leaders Congratulate Syrian Patriarch

PATRIARCH, from page 4 patriarch. “You have a very difficult mission, Turning to the civil war in Syria, Barsamian but be assured that you have our prayers, our said, “through prayer and fellowship, through love and our support.” mutual support and love — we stand in solidar - In introducing Karekin II, Barsamian spoke ity with you.” about the catholicos’ work in continuing to All of the church leaders expressed gratitude revive Christianity in Armenia after years of for the presence of Catholicos Karekin II and Soviet hostility toward the church. He men - paid their respects to the leader of the world - tioned Holy Echmiadzin’s emphasis on wide Armenian Church. Christian education and youth programs, which Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Roman Catholic are making it possible for generations of Archbishop of New York, thanked Barsamian Armenians to reassert their Christian heritage. for his hospitality and reflected on the blessing The catholicos spoke about Aphrem’s com - of religious freedom people of all faiths experi - mitment to serving God and his people. “We ence in the United States. “This gathering have known him as a good shepherd, well loved by his flock,” he said. “Despite all the challenges facing Syria, he has no doubt in accepting his new responsibility. This shows his endless love for the church of Christ and for his people.” He said that the Armenian Church, too, has been closely following the war in Syria, where there is a sizeable Clergy and lay leaders pose for a group photo on the steps of St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral. Armenian population, and mentioned his recent meetings with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill in Moscow visiting Holy Echmiadzin next year on the cen - of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Long Island. and Roman Catholic Pope Francis in tennial of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. Also in attendance were Very Rev. Dr. James Rome. In both meetings, the church “The courage of those martyrs will always Kowalski, dean of the Cathedral Church of St. leaders expressed concerns about the inspire us and give us wisdom and energy,” he John the Divine; Rev. Kurt Dunkle, dean of situation in the Middle East, and specif - said. “Their sacrifice gives us courage to con - General Theological Seminary; Rev. Ronald Catholicos Karekin II presents Patriarch Mor Ignatius ically in Syria, and discussed ways to tinue on the same path of martyrdom.” Roberson of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Aphrem II Karim with medallions from Armenia. bring peace to the region. The patriarch will be formally installed in Bishops; Jim Winkler, General Secretary of the “I want to assure you that you are not Damascus on May 29. He said he will continue National Council of Churches; and Warren alone,” Karekin II said. “You will have to seek ways to promote the work of the ecu - Clark, executive director of Churches for Middle seems particularly appropriate in the radiance our full support and our prayers.” menical movement, and asked that the church East Peace. Accompanying Karekin II was the of the Easter season,” Cardinal Dolan said. He presented Aphrem with medallions leaders in America continue to support the Rev. Vahram Melikyan, director of Information “And one can sense the spirit of the Risen inscribed with Armenian crosses and etchings cause of Christians in the Middle East. Services at Holy Echmiadzin. Christ in this room — in our fraternity, in our of churches. The patriarch, in turn, presented Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, the Roman Representing the Eastern Diocese at warmth and brotherly love.” the catholicos with The Chronicles of Michael Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Washington, Tuesday’s event were Archbishop Vicken Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek the Great, a new volume published by the DC, delivered a benediction, in which he under - Aykazian, the Diocese’s Ecumenical Director; Orthodox Church in America, expressed his Syriac Archdiocese. lined the need for common love and under - Archbishop Yeghishe Gizirian; Very Rev. appreciation to Barsamian for the warm wel - In a moving valedictory address, Aphrem standing among the various churches. Simeon Odabashian, Diocesan Vicar; Very Rev. come and congratulated Aphrem on his elec - said he is “encouraged and strengthened to Other high-ranking clergy in attendance were Mamigon Kiledjian, dean of St. Vartan tion. He presented the latter with an engolpion know that your prayers are with me. I hope Archbishop Mor Silvanos Ayup of the Armenian Cathedral; Very Rev. Daniel bearing an icon of St. Mary. and pray that my ministry will be of service to Malankara Syriac Archdiocese; Archbishop Findikyan, director of the Diocese’s Zohrab Demetrios spoke about St. Ignatius of all people.” Francis Chullikatt, Apostalic Nuncio of the Information Center; Very Rev. Aren Jebejian; Antioch—the first century martyr, theologian He reflected on the close ties between the Roman Catholic Church at the United Nations; Very Rev. Papken Anoushian; Very Rev. and hymnist, whose spirit, he said, is embodied Armenian and Syriac churches, and recalled Bishop Andrew Dietsche, the Episcopal Bishop Oshagan Gulgulian; Very Rev. Vazken Karayan by the new patriarch. Karekin II’s visit to the Syriac Orthodox Church of New York; Bishop Makarios of the Eritrean and Rev. Mardiros Chevian, dean of St. Nersess “We are going to miss you,” he said to the in America. He added that he looks forward to Orthodox Church; and Bishop William Murphy Armenian Seminary. S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 11 Arts & Living

Shushi Dance Ensemble ‘Please Be Normal’ Performs at Ellis Island At New Hampshire Medals of Honor 2014 Film Festival NEW YORK — On Saturday, May 10, 18 KEENE, N.H. — “Please Be Normal” a film members of the Shushi Armenian Dance written and directed by Haik Kocharian was an Ensemble were fortunate to be present at the official selection at Monadnock International Ellis Island Medals of Honor event which is Film Festival in Keene, NH and was screened in sponsored by NECO (National Ethnic a theater there. Coalition of Organizations). Medals are pre - During the festival, Kocharian also took part sented annually to American citizens who in a panel titled “A Conversation on Music and have distinguished themselves within their Film,” where he discussed a range of subjects own ethnic groups while exemplifying the val - including his involvement in photography and ues of the American way of life. This year, 6 of music in addition to film. the 96 recipients were Armenian: Salpy “ I was born in a family of few generation of Akaragian, Lily Balian, Archbishop Hovan actors,” said Kocharian “and was introduced to Derderian, Vahe Imasdounian, Raffi Megerian many art forms from a young age. I played and Jerar Nishanian. Rep. Frank Pallone (D- music as early as 6 and began taking photos few NJ), friend and supporter of Armenians, was years later. At one point, later in my life I felt also a recipient. that perhaps I had to choose between film, pho - The day started with a ferry ride across the tography and music but a voice within me said Hudson River with all the members waving the do what you love and I decided to do them all.” Armenian flag on the top deck of the ferry The screening of “Please Be Normal” attract - while approaching Ellis Island. Once on the ed a large and diverse audience and was well island, the members searched for names of rel - received, with an engaging question-and-answer atives on the Wall of Honor and took photos of session afterwards. the names. Kocharian also held several interviews with Despite the rainy day, Shushi members the festival media. marched their way to the ferry boats in cos - “For a long time, the notion of a family, its tumes and flags and were prepared with their permanence and its meaning created doubts in own matching Shushi classic umbrellas. my mind. What if, I thought to myself, the right Fortunately, it stopped raining just in time to path to happiness does not lie in attachment or greet the honorees and their guests as they Dr. Sylvie Merian expectations, and perhaps all we consider ‘nor - arrived on Ellis Island. There was much excite - mal’ is a big misunderstanding or an illusion? ment as the guests of honor starting arriving in The main character, Victor, was born out of their tuxedos and elegant gowns. Shushi mem - these deep personal doubts. I did not intend to bers performed several dances as the guests dis - embarked the boat. Unraveling the This was a memorable and exciting day for all involved! Congratulations to all the honorees! Mysteries of Early Sixth Annual Young Armenian Books

Stars in Concert NEW YORK — It was an evening of revealing finds in early Armenian religious books on Wednesday, April 9, as Morgan Library and Museum art historian Dr. CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — The Amaras Art Sylvie Merian unearthed beautiful woodcut illustrations, modeled after 17th-centu - Alliance is presenting musically talented chil - ry European prints. Many of these rare masterpieces are found in the book collec - dren at the Pickman Concert Hall, Longy tion of the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center of the Eastern Diocese of Haik Kocharian in a panel School of Music, on Sunday, June 8, at 3 p.m. the Armenian Church of America. “Children love to perform. You can see this The Very Rev. Daniel Findikyan, director in their eyes,” said program co-hosts Maral Der of the Zohrab Center, said in his introduc - tell a sad or happy story. Nor was I interested in Torosian and pianist Marine Margarian “and we tion that Merian is a top expert on making loud moral statements, but rather, I was love the opportunity to present them to our By Florence Avakian Armenian book binding, as well as in codi - questioning my own understanding for person - music-loving audience.” cology and manuscript illumination. The al happiness. It was my goal to create a highly Beyond giving children a stage to perform on recent schedule of lectures at the Zohrab Center aim to cover the broad spectrum visual film, revealing the relationships amongst and an opportunity to meet other talented peo - of Armenian civilization, he said. the characters through dynamic, symbolic and ple of their age, this program aims to recognize Armenian bookmaking “began with the invention of the Armenian alphabet in thought-provoking imagery,” he explained. dedicated music teachers and introduce them the early 5th century,” said Merian at the beginning of her multi-media presenta - “Please Be Normal” stars Oscar-nominated to new parents. tion. Its impetus was the desire to write down sacred scripture in the Armenian lan - Sam Waterston along with his daughter, “The proceeds of this and similar concerts,” guage. Until the printing press was invented, texts were copied by hand, “letter by Elisabeth Waterston, and his son in law, Louis said Arax Badalian, president of Amaras, “help letter, word by word by highly trained scribes, and decorated by highly trained Cancelmi. The cast also includes Dana us provide scholarships to musically gifted chil - artists.” Eskelson. The film was produced by Anette dren both here and in Armenia.” The scholar - She gave an example of one of these scribes, Tserun, who left many colophons Lewis and Karine Kocharyan, who are also the (an inscription at the end of a manuscript, very long and informative in the executive producers. Armenian tradition). His manuscripts were made on paper created from linen rags During the Monadnock International Film (not wood pulp from trees) and could also have been made of parchment from spe - Festival award ceremony “Please Be Normal” cially-prepared animal skins, she explained. received a prestigious Audience Choice Award, “These hand-copied books continued to be produced for centuries until the presented to Kocharian. advent of the printing press; in the Near East the technique continued well into the early 18th century and later.” The young performers As is well known, the printing press with movable type was invented by Johannes Gutenberg, and his famous Bible was printed around 1455 in Mainz, Germany. (The Morgan Library and Museum, located in Manhattan on Madison Avenue between ship fund is set up in the name of Hovhaness 36th and 37th Streets, always has one of its three Gutenberg Bibles on display in Badalian, the legendary Armenian singer who its beautiful East Room.) This world-changing invention made the production of passed away in 2001. many copies of the same book possible in much less time, and cost much less than To participate in the program, children audi - the price of a manuscript, she said. tion in front of a jury made up of musicians and The printing of Armenian books began in Europe because the technology was are expected to present two pieces at the con - simply unavailable in the Near East. Additionally, printed books were looked upon Louis Cancelmi in a scene from “Please Be cert. Youngsters of Armenian descent can select with self-interested opposition from scribes, and with suspicion by Muslim rulers. Normal” any work they like to present; children who are The first Armenian book was produced in Venice around 1512 by Hagop not of Armenian descent must have at least one Meghabard (Hagop the Sinful) who printed five books of great interest to Armenian merchants or travelers. It was not until 50 years later that another Armenian book In addition, the film will have two screenings piece written by an Armenian composer. at Marche Du Film at 2014 Cannes Film There will be 18 instrumentalists and vocal - would be printed, by diplomat and cleric Abgar of Tokhat, who printed two works in 1564-65, then returned to Constantinople where he opened another short-lived Festival. ists ages 8 to 18 in the June 8 program. For “Please Be Normal” also has been selected by additional information and ticket prices, visit printing press from 1567 to 1569. see BOOKS, page 13 the Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film www.Amarasonline.com or write to Festival 2014, to screen in the Armenian [email protected] . Panorama competition in Yerevan July 13-20. 12 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR ARTS & LIVING Baku Survivor Adapts to a New World

es of Maine where she practices law and raises It didn’t come easy, often finding herself as a dence. In turn, peace-loving people from the By Tom Vartabedian a family. outsider surviving in an unheated basement fac - brutal Azeri hold must be released of their “I wondered what the future would be like for ing discrimination again, this time by her own bonds.” me in America and the person I would become,” people. The mere mention of a role model draws a NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — In a world she told an audience of enraptured listeners in She graduated from the University of Maine refutation from Turcotte. Those she leaves to marked by violence and remorse, Anna North Andover recently. “As a 13-year-old immi - School of Law in 2003 and became one of the the survivors — people like her parents and Astvatsaturian Turcotte considers herself a sur - grant, I was petrified with thoughts of what the first Americans to clerk for the International friends and others who endured the strife. vivor — and rightfully so. new country had in store for me and my fami - Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands. She She’s been to Capitol Hill, lobbing for her She survived a pogrom in Baku at the height ly.” and husband John, a fellow attorney, reside in kind with issues of importance to Armenian- of the Azeri conflict. She faced assimilation and It’s all there in a book she’s had pub - survived that. It was not easy being estranged lished called Nowhere , her story of from her native land and childhood friends, but exile, a hot-selling nugget from a diary she survived that. she kept, much reminiscent of Anne She survived being Armenian on hostile Frank’s diary. ground and survived the innuendoes of a new She travels a lot with her story and and often unacceptable world. books in tow, much in demand, and is And for all these experiences, she became a extremely poised. On this visit to better woman, looking to justify her heritage Merrimack Valley, she brought her and speak out about genocide in the far reach - family along so that her two children, Armen and Evangeline, could visit the Museum of Science in Boston the next day. Contemporary Not long ago, Turcotte drew a packed house in Philadelphia, giving Classical Music of voice to a tragedy seldom reported in Armenia at Armenian the West. She tells of her life as a refugee, documenting the organized Museum of America terror in Baku and Azerbaijan amid the struggles to find herself, all against WATERTOWN — On Sunday, June 22, the decline of the Soviet Union. the Armenian Museum of America, At a time of rampant ethnic cleans - together with the Armenian Composers ing, this child victim lived to tell about Union of Yerevan, presents “An Afternoon it while others were not as fortunate. of Armenian Chamber Music,” with open - “The independence of Artsakh was a Author Anna Astvatsaturian Turcotte signs a book for Chake Boloian. ing remarks by Composer/Conductor major factor that escalated Azeri hos - Konstantin Petrossian. This concert fea - tility toward Armenians,” she recalled. tures Soprano Noune Karapetyan, “The most memorable thing for me was having Westbrook, Maine, where she now works in the Americans and the current situation in N-K. It Violinist Sargis Karapetyan and Pianist my father sitting in the dark with knives and financial industry. came during the 21st anniversary of Astakh Nune Hakobyan. waiting it out. I remember hiding in school She started writing her book by hand at age Independence from the Azeris, hosted by the The program includes works of when the demonstrations went bad. There was 14 before completing it two years later. She Congressional Armenian Caucus and Armenian Armenian contemporary composers: violence in the street but you never expect it to dedicated the work to future generations, National Committee of America, Alexanyan, Babayan, Garsoyan, come to you.” including her own children. The book was ulti - “I met many activists that fight daily for the Hakopjanyan, Karapetyan, Kostanyan, Over her 36 years, Turcotte has become a mately published in 2012. people of N-K and their freedom,” Turcotte Mavisakalyan, Makaryan, Mikaelyan, strong voice in the global fight against ethnic “Simply a young girl’s story of experiencing points out. “I hope through my book, I am their Sadoyan, Satian, cleansing and an inspiration for survivors human beings at their worst,” as she puts it. voice.” Souikiasyan, Shahrimanyan and Zarifyan around the world. “The tragedy was covered up. I want the world Among those she acknowledges in the book This event begins at 2 p.m. and is free The family first fled Azerbaijan for Armenia to understand that Nagorno-Karabagh is sub - is Tatoul Sonentz-Papazian for his editing work, and open to the public, 65 Main St. and later resettled in North Dakota in 1992 and jected to the same abuse we were and the as well as her resilient parents Norik and Irina five years later, Anna became a US citizen. United States needs to recognize their indepen - Astvatsaturov. S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 13 ARTS & LIVING Book Review Kirkus Reviews CC AA LLEENNDDAARR Weighs New Pilibosian Book

CreateSpace, 2014, 94 pages, ISBN 1495409449. MASSACHUSETTS Helene Pilibosian [email protected] JUNE 2 — St. James Men’s Club features speaker Dr. Ara Tachjian, senior resident – internal medicine, Beth Israel NEW YORK — In this imagery-drenched Deaconess Hospital. Topic: “Stroke & Common Heart collection of poetry, A New Orchid Myth , Conditions.” Losh Kebab and Kheyma Dinner. Social Hour Helene Pilibosian ( My Literary Profile , (mezza) 6:15 p.m. Dinner 7 p.m. $14 per person, St. James 2010, etc.) uses verse to tell the fantasti - Armenian Church, Charles Mosesian Cultural & Youth Center - cal tale of two extraterrestrials who come Keljik Hall, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown. Ladies welcome. to Earth to start a new life together. They JUNE 5 — Avak luncheon, noon, St. Gregory Armenian Church, say if you can make it in New York, you 158 Main St., North Andover, MA; speaker, US Army Major Felix can make it anywhere, but coming to the Gregorian, “To America With Love,” on his pending fifth deploy - Big Apple from another town or country ment to the Middle East. is one thing; Mr. and Mrs. Everydream, on JUNE 6, 7 — Armenian Memorial Church Annual Fair, open the other hand, have come to the city Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., serving kebab meals, entire fair open from another world — the planet of Tome. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Armenian meals served all day. As they build a life in the big city, they Armenian delicacies bake sale, silent auction, craft fair, indoor also travel throughout the United States yard sale. Armenian Memorial Church, 32 Bigelow Ave., and take in the sun-dappled orchards of Watertown, wheelchair accessible. Admission free. For informa - California, the rush of the Colorado River, tion, call 617-923-0498. the Cajun jazz of the bayou, and the heat JUNE 8 — St. James Armenian Festival – Annual Picnic, noon of the desert. to 6 p.m., Live Armenian Music by Jay Baronian, Leon Janikian, However, the Everydreams worry that Ken Kalajian and Bob Raphalian; shish, losh and chicken kebab, their daughter, also on Earth, will be kheyma and more! Children’s Activities, Raffle, Armenian taken from Vendor – rain or shine! St. James Grounds – 465 Mt. Auburn St them, apparent - – Watertown. Prof. Richard Hovannisian will discuss ly to help bring JUNE 12 — “Finding Zabel Yessayan,” the documentary that “The Armenians of Gesaria: From Evkere life back to their inspired the translation of two books by groundbreaking Ottoman and Talas to Mount Arkeos, Chomakhlu Armenian author, Zabel Yessayan, will be shown at the Watertown home world. So, and Evereg,” on Saturday, June 14, at in a rather Public Library, 123 Main St., 7 p.m. For more information, contact the Armenian Museum of America, 65 vague plot, the [email protected] or call 617-926-0171. couple turns to JUNE 14 — The Armenian Museum of America presents “The Main St. at 7 p.m. He will trace the the orchids that Armenians of Gesaria: From Evkere and Talas to Mount region’s history and the role Armenians thrive on Earth Arkeos, Chomakhlu and Evereg” by Dr. Richard G. played there, but in urban and rural in the hope Hovannisian, UCLA Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in Gesaria. The program is free and open to that these flow - Modern Armenian History and Distinguished Chancellor’s Fellow the public. ers will revital - at Chapman University, Orange County, California. He will give ize the people of Tome. a Power Point presentation and selected film shorts of the As she takes the struggle to succeed in region’s Armenian history and the significant roles played by America and applies it to sci-fi, Pilibosian Armenians, both in urban and rural Gesaria. The Armenian pres - showcases her talent for creating swirls of ence in Cappadocia and Gesaria/Kesaria dates back to the times NEW YORK surreal imagery. One of the standout of Tigran the Great and Gregory the Illuminator. 65 Main St., 7 poems, “Where Was Everywhere?” has p.m. Free and open to the public JUNE 7 and 8 — The annual Armenian Festival on the scenic husband and wife descending to Earth in JUNE 16 – The Gregory Hintlian Memorial Golf Tournament grounds of St. Peter Armenian Church, 100 Troy-Schenectady silver parachutes as New York’s ultimate sponsored by Holy Trinity Armenian Church at Marlborough Road, Watervliet. Admission and parking are free. Kebob meals, immigrants: “They swore allegiance to Country Club, Marlborough; 9:30 a.m., registration; 11 a.m., the John Berberian Ensemble, cooking demonstrations, church symphony / to prove their patriotism / “Shot Gun.” Join us for a day of golf - player’s fee: $175 tours, carnival games for children, and more during this week - and tried to fathom the cymbal clash.” (includes hospitality, lunch, dinner, green & cart fees, prizes and end-long event. Visit http://bit.ly/armenianfest for more info or Also lush and lovely is “Stretching the gifts) or just dinner and a social evening ($50 per person). call the church office at 518-274-3673. Lyric,” which illustrates the Everydreams Limited to 128 players. Tournament and tee sponsorships avail - at a dance, as “[v]oices from under the sea able. RSVP deadline, June 9. To register or for further informa - RHODE ISLAND / melted the smog into night / and drank tion, contact the Holy Trinity Church Office, 617.354.0632, or ballads played on trumpets.” email [email protected] JUNE 13 — 100 Anniversary of the Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Pilibosian describes her landscapes JUNE 22 — An Evening of Armenian Chamber Music, Sunday, Armenian Church, under the auspices of Archbishop Khajag with color, music and sounds, the result - 2 p.m., Contemproary Art Gallery of Armenian Museum of Barsamian, Primate, Diocese of the Armenian Church of America ing poems becoming, at their core, loving America, presented by the Armenian Museum of America and (Eastern), 7 p.m. Concert in celebration of a century of faith, depictions of life. A unique collection of Armenian Composers Union, Yerevan. Featuring violinist Sargis hope and faith, featuring soloists from Armenia, New York, verse with a sci-fi twist on the American Karapetyan, soprano Noune Karapetyan and pianist Nune Massachusetts, Rhode Island, the Amrenian Chorale and dream. Karapetyan. Program includes works of Armenian contemporary Orchestra of Rhode Island, under the direction of Maestro —Kirkus Reviews composers Alexanyan, Babayan, Garsoyan, Hakopjanyan, Konstantin Petrossian at the new Saint Mary and Saint Mena Karapetyan, Kostanyan, Mavisakalyan, Makaryan, Mikaelyan, Coptic Orthodox Cathedral, 2433 Scituate Ave., Cranston. Sadoyan, Satian, Souikiasyan, Sharimanyan and Zariyan. Spiritual and traditional Armenian music, also, premier of songs Opening remarks by composer/conductor Konstantin composed especially for this event. Free and open to the public. Petrossian. Admission free, donations accepted. 65 Main St., Unraveling the Watertown. RHODE ISLAND SEPTEMBER 26, 27 — Armenians and Progressive Politics Mysteries of Early Conference returns to Boston. Keynote speaker will be Noam JUNE 7 — Knights and Daughters of Vartan present a musi- Chomsky. Details to follow. cal per formance with pianist-composer Hayk Arsenyan of NOVEMBER 8 — Armenia Tree Project’s 20th Anniversary New York, under the auspices of the Embassy of the Republic Armenian Books Celebration. Reception and dinner at the Grand Atrium of the of Armenia, at the cultural hall of the embassy, 2225 R Street, John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse overlooking the NW, Washington DC, at 4:00 PM. By reservation only. Please BOOKS, from page 11 Boston Harbor. Reserve the date, additional details to follow. For call Takuhi Hallajian (301) 219-4041 or Doris George (301) 951- First Printed Ar m enian Bible information about ATP’s programs, visit www.ArmeniaTree.org 0955. As it had at other points in Armenian history, the Bible played the key role in opening the Armenian community to something new: in this instance, to the revolution of printing technolo - gy. followed Matteos after receiving funds from manuscript illuminations, wall paintings and sil - for other woodcuts, as well as in wall paintings, After several unsuccessful attempts to print three wealthy Armenian merchants in New ver covers for sacred books. silverwork, ceramic tiles, and even manuscript Bibles in the Middle East, it became clear that Julfa, Isfahan (in Iran), and printed the com - These woodblocks moved along with the illumination,” Merian said. the first printed Armenian Bible would have to plete Bible in Armenian in 1666. printing houses and were used in several loca - Constantinople would become the home of be produced in Europe. A printing house was More than 100 Christoffel van Sichem wood - tions in Europe, even in Constantinople, until many Armenian printing presses and remained founded in Amsterdam in 1658 by Matteos cuts were printed in the Armenian Bible , at least 1718. so until the early 20th century, the speaker Tsaretsi, who procured the necessary metal for Merian noted via several slides, and his wood - “Another intriguing development was the use added. casting the typeface, and also obtained 150 pre - cuts were used in many other Armenian publi - of Western European prints by Armenians as Following the lecture, a spirited question-and- viously-used religious-themed woodblocks (illus - cations, as the woodcuts and blocks went east - new sources for religious iconography in answer session took place, after which many trations gouged out of wood), produced by ward. On the journey, they became very popu - manuscript illumination in the 17th and 18th attendees crowded around Merian with even Christoffel van Sichem. Bishop Oskan Erevants lar and were copied into new woodcuts, centuries. This new visual vocabulary was used more queries. 14 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR COMMENTARY

COMMENTARY THE ARMENIAN Mirror Georgia on My Mind

promised Armenians economic help, improved roads and commu - Spectator By Edmond Y. Azadian nications, none of which have materialized yet. The Georgian authorities blame Javakhk Armenians for their economic difficul - ty, arguing they have failed to learn the Georgian language. They No, this column is not about Ray Charles’ song, Georgia on My are blamed for continuing to use the Armenian language and prac - Mind , nor is it about the southern US state of Georgia. It is about ticing their ancestral traditions, even though Javakhk has been a a country of 5 million tucked in the Caucasus Mountains, a next- historic territory of Armenia. EstablEisshteadbl1is9h3e2 d 1932 door neighbor to Armenia. The Tbilisi authorities have been implementing a two-pronged An ADALnP AuDblLic Patuiobnlication The region is plagued by many complex problems, because of the policy towards Javakhk: persecuting human rights activists and rivalry between regional and world powers. One of those problems assimilation. In the first case, the religious and ethnic rights of is the Ottoman dream of Pan-Turkism, which has been checked by minorities are willfully trampled, which leads to the depopulation the existence of two Christian nations, Armenia and Georgia, block - of the region. In the second case, the remaining Armenians are EDITOR ing the eastward thrust of Turkish nationalist powers. Alin K. Gregorian exposed to an intense Georgianization, forcing them to forgo their In recent years, however, it has become apparent that Georgia’s identity under the pretext of creating job opportunities. The cen - leaders do not consider Pan-Turkism an existential threat to their tral government has introduced cosmetic improvements in the ASSISTANT EDITOR Gabriella Gage country, choosing instead short-term political accommodations region to deflect criticism. with Turkey and Azerbaijan. The Armenian problem for them is not new. At one point, the ASSOCIATE EDITOR Successive Georgian governments have consistently voted with government intended to resettle in Javakhk the Meskhetian Turks, Aram Arkun Turkey and Azerbaijan at the UN. But above all, they have been who had been expelled by Stalin, in order to create ethnic ten -

ART DIRECTOR sanguine in supporting any economic plan which intends to iso - sions. Marc Mgrditchian late Armenia. For example, Tbilisi governments have joined rail Another region of concern for Armenians in Georgia is Ajaria, and pipeline networks which bypass Armenia. which became the Ajarian Autonomous Republic after the col - As a Christian nation with a long history with the Armenians, lapse of the Soviet Union. Between 1991 and 2004, Ajaria’s pres - we are always deceived into thinking that a Christian nation’s ident was a local warlord, Aslan Abashidze, who during the Rose SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST: Edmond Azadian interests would coincide with another Christian nation experienc - Revolution sided with former President Eduard Shevardnadze. ing the same predicaments. But Tbilisi has tried to dispel that When Mikheil Saakashvili consolidated his position in Tbilisi, he CONTRIBUTORS: notion time after time by its hostile policies against Armenia. gave an ultimatum to Abashidze, who until that point was ruling Florence Avakian, Dr. Haroutiune Some foolhardy people sometimes blame the Armenian govern - Ajaria as a sovereign state. Saakashvili behaved at that point in Arzoumanian, Taleen Babayan, Prof. ment for not adopting a tougher stand against Tbilisi. However, the same manner that he behaved later in 2008 against Abkhazia Vahakn N. Dadrian, Diana Der while simmering conflict rages with Azerbaijan, it is not wise for and South Ossetia, using military force to subdue them. Hovanessian, Philip Ketchian, Kevork any administration to open a second front on its borders, espe - But in the case of Ajaria, Moscow still believed that helping Keushkerian, Sonia Kailian-Placido , cially when its lifeline crosses through the territory of that neigh - Saakashvili would curb his anti-Russian zeal. Therefore, a heli - Harut Sassounian, Mary Terzian, Hagop bor. copter flew Abashidze to Moscow and the threat of armed conflict Vartivarian, Naomi Zeytoonian That is why we have considered Georgia as a friendly foe. But was resolved. Ajaria fell under the control of Georgia, courtesy of CORRESPONDENTS: recently, the Economist weekly has used another word which the Kremlin. That convinced Saakashvili that bullying will always Armenia - Hagop Avedikian suits better the two nations’ relationship, “frenemies.” The word win but that gamble did not work in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Boston - Nancy Kalajian was also used by the magazine when Moscow and Beijing cut an Ajaria is a vital economic link for Armenia, which is already Philadelphia - Lisa Manookian energy deal worth $400 billion. Outwardly, it was a political scoop under a crippling blockade by Turkey. Most unofficial trade and Berlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach for President Putin of Russia, in view of threatened economic tourism between Armenia and Turkey crosses through Ajaria. The Contributing Photographers: sanctions by the West, but per the Economist , Russian and region was under Turkish rule for a while and the Georgians were Jacob Demirdjian, Harry Koundakjian, Jirair Chinese national interests will diverge in the long run. (The word forced to adopt the Moslem religion. By the time of independence, Hovsepian frenemies, a mashing of friend and enemies, is more popular with Ajarians had mostly converted back to Christianity. Today, the teens rather than nation states.) Turkish influence is so great that 70 percent of the population has Georgia is not only a worrisome neighbor through its interna - adhered to Islam. The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published tional relations, but also through its domestic policy towards its In his quest to turn Ajaria into a tourist destination, Saakashvili weekly, except two weeks in July and the first diverse ethnic groups. Armenians constitute 6-7 percent of opened the floodgates to Turkish economic penetration. Parallel week of the year, by: Georgia’s population, along with an almost equal number of to that economic drive, he offered citizenship to anyone who Baikar Association, Inc. Azeris. Armenians are concentrated in the capital city of Tbilisi applied for it. Already, 25,000 Turkish citizens have received 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 and in the Javakhk region on Armenia’s northern border. Georgian citizenship and they have taken white collar jobs in and Telephone: 617-924-4420 The confiscation of Armenian churches and community proper - around Batumi, unlike Europe, where the Turks are mostly FAX: 617-924-2887 ties has not been resolved yet. unskilled laborers. May 18-22, the UN Human Rights Commissioner Navi Pillay vis - The Turkification of Ajaria is moving on many levels especially www.mir rorspectator.com ited Georgia and she expressed her concern over the Tbilisi gov - education and religion. Already there are 50 Turkish boarding E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator .com ernment’s discriminatory policies with regard to its minorities and schools in Ajaria. An important factor in this Turkification drive For advertising: [email protected] called for the government to implement its own constitutional is ascribed to Saakashvili’s mother, Giuli Alasania, a professor of obligations and respect international law. Turkish history who cooperates with Fetullah Gulen. That is, of course, a slap on the wrist which cannot have conse - As we can see, a cross-border territory for Armenians is fast quences as long as Tbilisi’s aspirations to join NATO can be manip - becoming hostile territory. The long-term effect of this SUBSCRIPTION RATES : ulated by the West to undermine Russian posturing in the region. Turkification process is that the road is being paved through a so- Georgians are very cognizant of that political reality and intend to called Christian land for pan-Turanists like Ahmet Davutolgu. continue their discriminatory policies with impunity. Georgia’s political alienation from Armenia is further amplified U.S.A. $80 a year Javakhk was once home to a Russian military base, which pro - through its gradual integration of Turkish-Islamist mainstream. Canada $125 a year vided security and jobs to the local Armenians. With total disre - Whether we sing Charles’ Georgia on My Mind or not, we gard for the Armenian population, Moscow liquidated its military always need to have in mind Georgia with its perpetually hostile Other Countries $190 a year base prematurely, to assuage the Tbilisi government, which in turn posture vis-à-vis Armenians and Armenia.

© 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA and additional mailing offices. Sultan Erdogan’s Last Curtain Call ISSN 0004-234X POSTMASTER : Send address changes to The Armenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount Auburn fore you raise your voice. When the discussion wanted to trample demonstrators at Istanbul’s St., Watertown, MA 02472 By Miran Sarkisian comes to the issue of killings, you know the Gezi Park and replace it with a mall in classi - Other than the editorial, views and opinions subject very well. I remember you killed chil - cal Ottoman architectural style while the alle - expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily dren on beaches”. After following the blockade gations of corruption have hit himself person - reflect the policies of the publisher. Arrogance and the illusion of omnipotence of Israel’s air force from the annual Turkish ally as well as his family members, while he led the poor boy from the petty Kasimpasa dis - exercise known as “The Anatolian Eagle,” the proceeded in prohibiting access of his Turkish trict, where as a student he sold lemonade and Gaza flotilla, closer relations with Hamas, population to YouTube and Twitter citing cookies in the streets to earn a living, to delivering 10 Iranians to the government in national security reasons. believe that he could over - Tehran in early 2012 on Yet he won in Turkish regional elections come the limitations charges of collaboration held at the end of March 2014! imposed by eternal politics. COMMENTARY with Israel and Turkey, as If allowed to make a prediction, which I Copying for other than personal use or The agile, combative and reported by the don’t do too often, it seems likely that after the internal reference is prohibited without express permission of the copyright skillful Recep Tayyip Erdogan was thus Washington Post, Erdogan’s February 2013 August 2014 elections, Erdogan will be the owner. Address requests for reprints or trapped in the spectrum of an over bloated statement indicated that Zionism is a crime next president of Turkey. He has failed, how - back issues to: ego. against humanity and also a synonym for fas - ever, to pass laws which increase presidential So, Erdogan openly clashed with Israel cism. constitutional powers nor does he any longer Baikar Association, Inc. when he boorishly challenged Israeli President At the same time, Erdogan violently clashed have alliances within his AKP party “barons” 755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509 Shimon Peres at the 2009 World Economic with powerful Fethullah Gülen, has mostly bad who have the power to support such laws. So Forum in Davos by stating: “Mr. Peres, you are relations with President Abdullah Gül, shed maybe he thinks his power-moves will go older than me. Maybe you feel guilty and there - innocent people’s blood in Turkey because he continued on next page S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR 15 COMMENTARY

bying capabilities of Jews and Armenians: “The German and threatened that unless they cooperated with his government knows that the Jews do not compare to the demands, he would do to them what he did to Armenians. Armenians in terms of their world power, and that the He told them that he “barehandedly killed several weight of the Jews in Germany is therefore different from Armenians, and his soldiers killed thousands of them.” that of the Armenians.” Chaim Margalit-Kalvarisky, the representative of the Jewish My Turn Mordecai Ben-Hillel Hacohen, a prominent chronicler of Colonization Association in Galilee, wrote the following note Jewish history in Palestine, wrote in his diary of March 30, in his diary: “I received word from a fairly dependable source By Harut Sassounian 1917: “the Turkish government has been stained in the that the [Turkish] high command was very angry at the eyes of the whole country because of its crime against the Jewish settlement, and they were consulting about the pos - Armenians, and perhaps the government will reconsider its sibility of a general deportation of all the Jews of Palestine Why Turks were Able to Exterminate thoughts of doing thus to the Jews as well….” to the furthest provinces of the Empire [Eastern Anatolia].” Armenians, but not Jews Moshe Smilansky, a leader of the Jewish agricultural set - Kalvarisky recorded Jamal Pasha’s ominous words after a tlements in Palestine, after relating reports of the terrible heated exchange with him: “Heaven help the people whose (Part II) massacres of Armenians, concluded: “The testimony of the sons are those cursed spies. We taught the Armenian people This is the second and final part of a column I wrote last eye witnesses aroused fear and panic in the Jewish audi - a lesson about such deeds, and we will not hesitate to take month, analyzing why the Young Turks were able to exter - ence. Who knows what would have been our fate were it the same steps in this case.” minate the Armenians, but could not carry out their simul - not for Morgenthau, the American representative in Having witnessed the brutality of the Turks against taneous plan to eliminate the Jewish settlers of Palestine. Constantinople, and the fear of the world press which is Armenians who were accused of insubordination and rebel - On May 9, 1917, Reuters disseminated the follow - ‘controlled’ by the Jews.” lion, the Jewish settlers decided to be completely submis - ing news report by settler Aaron Aaronsohn: “an order was Yair Auron reported in his book that Meir Dizengoff, a sive and not challenge the Turkish authorities. Prof. Auron given to deport all Jews from Tel Aviv, including citizens of leader of the Jewish refugees in Palestine throughout observed that “there was not a single attack by a Jewish the Central Powers [Germany and Austria-Hungary], with - World War I, “worked in close cooperation with the Zionist settler on a Turkish soldier.” What ultimately saved the in 48 hours. A week before, 300 Jews were expelled from delegation in Constantinople, which was pro-German and Jews was the occupation of Palestine by the British forces, Jerusalem. Jamal Pasha declared that their fate would be pro-Turkish. According to Dizengoff, there were also excel - precluding further brutalities and massacres by the that of the Armenians. The 8,000 deportees from Tel Aviv lent relations with the German consul in Palestine…. The Turkish authorities. were not allowed to take any provisions with them, and consul served as a conduit for transferring funds to the At the end, 1.5 million Armenians were wiped out, where - after the expulsion their houses were looted by Bedouin Yishuv [Jewish community], on orders from the German as the Jewish settlers of Palestine suffered relatively minor mobs.” Ambassador in Constantinople.” Dizengoff also stated that losses. During the war years, the Jewish population of Shortly thereafter, Oskar Cohen, a Jewish socialist mem - the Germans were the ones who assisted and saved the Palestine was reduced from 86,000 to 55,000. Despite the ber of the German Parliament, asked the Chancellor to Yishuv. “The fact that Jamal Pasha became more sympa - fact that Armenians had also their advocates in Europe and press the Turkish government “to vigorously prevent the thetic to the Jews was due to Germany.” Dizengoff recalled the United States, the Jewish settlers enjoyed the double recurrence in Palestine of atrocities” against Jews similar to Jamal and Enver Pashas’ threats to the Jews: “Zionists protection of powerful countries on both sides of the war: the ones committed against the Armenians. beware! If you oppose us, we will do to you what we have the Western countries, including the United States, and On June 8, Aaronsohn wrote in his diary: “The cry we done to the Armenians.” Germany, Turkey’s military ally. Vahakn Dadrian, in his raised was effective. The Turks and the Germans were In October 1917, when the Turkish authorities uncovered book, “The History of the Armenian Genocide,” relates that quick to realize that one cannot get away with slaughtering the Jewish Nili spy ring, a new threat loomed over the Jewish Hans Wangenheim, the German Ambassador to Turkey, the Jews like the Armenians. German financing of the war settlers in Palestine, giving yet another excuse for the Turks told US Ambassador Henry Morgenthau: “I will help the might have suffered because of the Jews. Therefore they to oppress them. They feared that such anti-Turkish efforts Zionists… but I shall do nothing for the Armenians.” ceased the new deportations.” would result in harsh counter-measures as practiced against While Germany saved the Jewish settlers of Palestine, it Palestine, the official journal of the British Zionist move - Armenians. The Turkish Governor of Haifa met with Jewish assisted the Young Turk regime to exterminate the ment, described the significant difference between the lob - leaders of the village of Zichron Yaakov on October 4, 1917, Armenians.

Sultan Erdogan’s Congressional Resolution affirming the Armenian Genocide. Anti-Defamation “Abe Foxman’s reference to the Armenian massacres as geno - cide, without any qualifiers, is a welcome change,” stated Herman Last Curtain Call Purutyan, Massachusetts chair of the Armenian Assembly of League’s Abraham America. “Even though Foxman continues to assert that he had from previos page previously acknowledged the genocide, the basis for his claims are unnoticed. But the Turkish political system a chain of statements, at the root of which is the 2007 statement has shown that it moves with relentless Foxman Recognizes full of qualifications, intended to obfuscate the question. We punishment, even for its popular prime min - expect that Foxman’s statement at Suffolk is not only his personal isters. Armenian Genocide view, but that it also reflects ADL’s official position. ADL should Turkey currently enters an intensely low confirm this by publishing an unequivocal statement on its web - level due to political overexposure caused site, and joining in the efforts to have the US Congress recognize by her unrealistic strategy of Neo- By Laura Boghosian the Armenian Genocide by passing the resolution currently before Ottomanism and the housing bubble in it.” Istanbul. Turkey’s destabilization is, howev - fter years of equivocation, Anti-Defamation League Foxman’s remarks reflected growing support by Jewish organi - er, also due to the authoritarian manner National Director Abraham Foxman has publicly zations for recognition of the Armenian Genocide. In March, ADL Erdogan chose to govern the state. He acknowledged that the Turkish massacres of the New England Regional Director Robert Trestan was quoted stating imprisoned almost all the Kemalist military Armenian people constituted genocide. that the ADL “now fully recognizes the Armenian genocide with - leadership, did not hide his willingness to This recognition comes after a seven-year cam - out reservation.” control the administration of justice, and paign in which the Armenian and Jewish com - The following month, the American Jewish Committee issued a collided with great vehemence against pow - A munities, as well as human rights activists and release that read, “We pause in mournful tribute to the memories erful Kemalist publishers to create space for local officials, demanded that the ADL affirm of the estimated 1.5 million victims of the Meds Yeghern, the his own people. In short, Erdogan opened this historical truth. Genocide of Armenians, committed in the final years of the many fronts, created prominent enemies In remarks delivered at Suffolk University Law School’s com - Ottoman Empire.” Describing the genocide as “an unspeakable and soon will have to deal with them. The mencement on May 17, Foxman stated, “Had there been people of crime against humanity,” the AJC called upon the Turkish govern - poor boy from Kasimpasa with many skills courage to act in 1915 when the Armenian Genocide was taking ment to “confront the truth.” but a much greater ego did not understand place, had there been international intervention when massacres Finally, the Israeli Knesset discussed recognition of the that a basic rule of politics is “what goes up in Cambodia, Bosnia and the genocide in Rwanda were happening, Armenian Genocide at a plenum on May 13. A motion by the left- comes down, and nothing lasts forever.” innocent lives in great numbers could have been saved.” wing Meretz party to recognize the enocide before its 100th The conclusion to be drawn from Sultan The announcement that Foxman would deliver the keynote anniversary next year received support from across the political Erdogan’s behavior of the last few years is address and receive an honorary degree unleashed widespread crit - spectrum, including from the rightist coalition government. that he is a very agile but dangerous politi - icism that the university planned to honor a man who refused to “These reversals of position by major Jewish organizations are cian with ambitions to leave his legacy as issue a clear statement on the Armenian Genocide and who active - quite significant for all those committed to recognition of the geno - Turkey’s second Kemal but in reverse, ly lobbied against its recognition. cides of the past century,” stated Dikran Kaligian, chairman of the meaning having brought back to Turkey Groups including the Suffolk chapter of the National Lawyers Armenian National Committee of Eastern Massachusetts. “No the neo-Islamism the country had been able Guild, Suffolk student organizations, the Armenian Bar longer will Turkey be able to exploit the differences between the to shed since its founding in 1923. Association, Suffolk alumni and others called on Suffolk to rescind positions of these organizations’ leadership and their membership These events do not bode very well for its invitation. When Suffolk refused, several faculty members car - — the vast majority of whom want nothing to do with Turkey’s Armenia and with Sultan Erdogan as the ried small Armenian flags in silent protest onto the stage where genocide denial campaign.” new President of Turkey by 2015, we Foxman spoke. Locally, the Coalition to Recognize the Armenian Genocide was should expect a very harsh reaction to any Foxman’s Suffolk remarks stand in contrast to the ADL’s 2007 established in 2008 to foster communication between the efforts by Armenian communities and orga - statement that the “consequences” of the Turkish government’s Armenian and Jewish communities and to raise awareness of the nizations around the world to have the actions were “tantamount to genocide.” The Armenian communi - Armenian Genocide within the Jewish community. Its objectives Genocide recognized as such by Turkey. ty and its supporters rejected that statement as its qualifiers cir - include advocating for official recognition of the genocide by the Every step taken by Armenians to attract cumvented the intent required by the 1948 United Nations United States government. Coalition members include represen - international attention to the Genocide will Genocide Convention. tatives from the Armenian National Committee of America and the be countered accordingly by Sultan An ADL statement one year later that alleged it had “referred to Armenian Assembly of America. Erdogan’s Turkey, including YouTube, those massacres and atrocities as genocide” was likewise rebuffed The coalition facilitated contacts between Armenian activists Facebook, Instagram and Twitter commu - as it only “referred” to the unacceptable 2007 statement. Recent and members of the ADL and created an online petition calling on nications. claims by Foxman and the ADL that this 2008 release clearly and Congress to recognize the Armenian Genocide that has gathered The question is what and how are we, unequivocally acknowledged the Armenian Genocide are false. over 21,000 signatures to date. Armenians, planning to handle the future Since that time, human rights activists have continued to press with Sultan Erdogan on the other side? the ADL for an unequivocal acknowledgement, as well as an end (Laura Boghosian, a Lexington resident, is a member of the Miran P. Sarkissian to its lobbying for the Turkish government to prevent passage of a Coalition to Recognize the Armenian Genocide.) 16 S ATURDAY , M AY 31, 2014 T HE A RMENIAN M IRROR -S PECTATOR

Leadership Meetings in Yerevan Held between TCA and ADL of Armenia

MEETING, from page 1 On May 11, a meeting was held at TCA Suren Sargsyan (secretary), Hagop Vartivarian Yerevan Center with the participation of the (US) and Nar Khatchadourian (Lebanon). They TCA Armenia Central Board of Directors: Ruben discussed the ADL and Azg newspaper purchas - Mirzakhanian (Yerevan), Hagop Avedikian ing a new five-story building in a central location (President of TCA Armenia) and Armen of Yerevan. Participants at the meeting had Tsulikian (director of TCA Yerevan Center). The already visited the new center and its current annual report of the Center was presented and owner was present at the meeting. The partici - approved. Various proposals were made and adopted on improving the recep - tion hall and gardens, as well as erecting a statue of Vahan Tekeyan. It was unanimously decid - ed to introduce some necessary changes required for the ownership of the Center, noting that TCA of US and Canada had made great contributions financially when the center was being constructed. On May 12, former UN Ambassador of Armenia Garen Nazarian and TCA New York/New Jersey Chair Vartivarian met. From left, Hagop Vartivarian, Minister Hranush Hakobpian, Vartivarian praised Nazarian’s With the members of ADL Committee of Armenia Baydzig Kalaydjian and Gabriel Chambardjian approach toward Tekeyan chapter throughout his five-year tenure, by his personal participation and sup - TCA and ADL had organized events commemo - Hamazasbian. pants signed an initial agreement that was final - port towards the TCA and ADL events in New rating Armenia’s membership to the UN, the On May 12, at the Board Meeting of ADL ized on May 12 and handed to the representa - York and New Jersey. Thanks to the recommen - independence of Armenia and other occasions. party of Armenia, with the participation of tives of the TCA Central Board of Directors of dations by Nazarian, the local chapters of the On May 12, Vartivarian (member of TCA Vartivarian and Kalaydjian, discussed various United States and Canada and to the TCA Board of Directors) and Kalaydjian (executive issues concerning the ADL. Avedikian and Committee of Armenia. At the end of the meet - director of TCA Board of Directors), paid an Vartivarian presented to the members of com - ing, Committee members joined benefactor official visit to the Ministry of Diaspora, to mittee the new administrative center’s complete Gabriel Chamberdjian (Phoenix Foundation), meet Minister Hranush Hakobian. They dis - program. This new venue will serve the best for Baydzig Kalaydjian and Lebanon ADL Regional cussed the possibility of re-visiting the con - ADL Armenia as a center for cultural activities Board Chair Michael Vayedjian. cept of the Diaspora-Motherland Committee and for Azg newspaper’s editorial team. On May 10, trustees of the and to mark the 50th anniversary of that Later the same day, Vartivarian was the guest London Trust held its annual meeting, where organization. Hakobian confirmed that this of the National Assembly deputy and the the annual financial and activity reports organization, since its founding in Soviet Joghovrtagan party’s chairman, Stepan were presented by the foundation’s president, Armenia, has been the only one with whom Demirjian. He is the son of the late Garen Vartan Ouzounian. Attending the meeting Diaspora Armenians established contacts Demerjian from the National Assembly; he was were members of the board of Directors of with the homeland. For many years this insti - a close friend of the Democratic Liberal Party in London Trust assembled from different parts of tution was managed by historian Vartkes Soviet Armenia in the days when he was the the world: Hagop Vartivarian (New Hamazasbian. he called for organizations and chief leader not only in Armenia but in the York), Nar Khatchadourian (Beirut), Krikor Ambassador Garen Nazarian and Hagop individuals in the US and Middle East to for - Soviet Union as well. Haroutounian (Cyprus), Silva Aharonian Vartivarian ward to the Ministry of Diaspora any articles, Central Board of Directors (London) and Alan Kuchukian (Yerevan). documents or memorabilia related to the late TCA of USA and Canada