Britain ReversesAppointment of NewEnvoy to Armenia

LONDON (RFE/RL) — The British governmenthas unexpectedly rescinded its recent decision toappoint an ethnic Armenian diplomat as theUnited Kingdom’s new ambassador to Armenia.The government announced two months ago

that Alan Gogbashian will replace JudithFarnworth, a fellow diplomat who has served asBritish ambassador in Yerevan for the last fouryears. The announcement was welcomed bymany in Armenia and its worldwide Diaspora.“This is the first time that a Diaspora

Armenian will be ambassador to Armenia,” theoffice of Zareh Sinanyan, Armenia’s Armenian-American commissioner general of Diasporaaffairs, said on August 12.“Mr. Alan Gogbashian will no longer be taking

up the role of Her Majesty’s Ambassador toYerevan for operational reasons,” read a state-ment released by the British Embassy in Yerevanon Monday, October 14. “Mr. Gogbashian will betransferring to another Diplomatic Serviceappointment.”“Mr. David Moran has been appointed as

Chargé d’Affaires with the rank of Ambassadorin the interim, until a new Ambassador isappointed,” added the statement posted on theembassy’s Facebook page.The British mission gave no further explana-

tion for the abrupt and highly unusual reversalof ambassadorial appointment.Gogbashian lived and worked in Armenia near-

ly two decades ago, before joining the Britishdiplomatic service. He has headed various divi-sions at the British Foreign Office since 2014.He was Britain’s deputy head of mission inMorocco from 2011-2014.

Yerevan Court UpholdsOrbelian Claim atOpera House

YEREVAN (Factinfo) — The Yerevan Court ofGeneral Jurisdiction on October 8 upheld theclaim of Konstantin Orbelian, artistic director ofthe Opera House, Director of the YouthPrograms at the Opera House Levon Javadyansaid.“The lawsuit demands to invalidate the former

Minister of Culture Nazeni Gharibyan’s 2019order of release on March 28 ,” said Javadyan.By a decision of Gharibyan, Orbelian was dis-

missed from the post of director of NationalAcademic Theater of Opera and Ballet. The jus-tification was that a person may not hold twopositions at the same time, unless it is creative,scientific or educational. Another reason wasOrbelian’s lack of knowledge of Armenian.

INSIDE

NEWS IN BRIEF

Wrap it up inSome Lavash

Page 12

INDEXArts and Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Armenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,3Community News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,5

Mirror- SpectatorMirror- SpectatorTHE ARMENIAN

Volume LXXXX, NO. 14, Issue 4607

OCTOBER 19 , 2 019

$ 2.00

The First English Language Armenian Weekly in the United States Since 1932

Diana Apcar Documentary ShedsLight on Tireless Heroine

WATERTOWN — Diana Agabeg Apcar, awoman born far away from her homelandnot only ended up representing her countryof origin as an ambassador but also savedpossibly thousands from death during the

Armenian Genocide. Her story is becoming known to a whole new generationthanks to a documentary on her life by her great-granddaughter, Mimi Malayan.On Sunday, September 29,

several Armenian groupsbanded together to co-spon-sor a viewing of Malayan’s“The Stateless Diplomat:Diana Apcar’s Heroic Life,”at the Mosesian Center forthe Arts in Watertown.Before the start of the

movie, introductions weremade by Project SAVEExecutive Director TsoleenSarian, followed by specialguest Setsuo Ohmori, theconsul of Japan in Boston. “Itis an honor to be here as a diplomat from Japan,” he said, also paying tribute toApcar as the first woman diplomat.She was often heartbroken and led a difficult life, but she set her sights on

helping her people. Her efforts are only now being recognized.Malayan in her comments said, “It has been a labor of love for me,” she said.

“It has taken eight years to complete.”see DOCUMENTARY, page 9

A scene from the documentary of “The Stateless Diplomat”

By Alin K. Gregorian Mirror-Spectator Staff

Diana Apcar

ArmeniaCondemnsTurkey’sInvasion Of SyriaYEREVAN (Combined Sources) — Armenia

condemned the Turkish invasion of Syria,according to a message from the Ministryof Foreign Affairs of Armenia, released onOctober 10. Prime Minister NikolPashinyan also called on the internationalcommunity to take every measure to stopthe Turkish invasion.Armenia’s diplomatic mission in Syria

has organized an urgent evacuation of com-patriots in the line of fire, especially fromthe cities of Tel Abyad and Kamyshly.Turkey launched a military operation in

northeast Syria to create a “safe zone”along its borders. The attack hit more than200 targets using heavy weapons, includingaircraft and artillery. Washington said itwould not obstruct the Turkish military,and began to withdraw its troops from thisterritory. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of

Armenia in a statement said, “This invasionwill lead to a further deterioration ofregional security, as well as civilian casual-ties, a large flow of displaced people and,ultimately, a new humanitarian crisis.”In addition, the situation is creating con-

ditions for severe and large-scale humanrights violations against another ethnicgroup, the MFA said.“Armenia calls for effective international

efforts to end this military invasion, preventmass atrocities and protect the Syrian pop-ulation on the border of Turkey,” the state-ment concluded.

see INVASION, page 2

UN Blasts Turkey for Executions,Possible War Crimes

ERBIL, KurdistanRegion (Rudaw.net) – TheUnited Nations HumanRights Office said

Tuesday, October 15, that Turkey could be held accountable forpossible war crimes, including the execution of captives and afemale Kurdish politician, attacks on medical facilities, and thebombing a convoy of civilians and journalists during its nowweek-long offensive in northeast Syria. The United States defensechief has also said Washington could hold Turkey to account forpossible war crimes. Turkey launched an exten-

sive bombing campaign onOctober 7 followed by a landinvasion a few days later, whichhas forced more than 275,000people from their homes andkilled at least 45 civilians,including a popular femaleKurdish politician and severaljournalists.“We have received reports

and viewed two separate piecesof video footage showing whatappear to be summary execu-tions carried out by fightersbelonging to the Ahrar

see CRIMES, page 4

US Congress Condemns TurkishInvasion of SyriaWASHINGTON — The United States Senate and House of

Representatives condemned Turkey’s invasion of northern Syria,and called for sanctioning Turkey for its violence against inno-cent civilians, specifically targeting the Kurdish population andethnic minorities in the region, such as Armenians, Assyrians,Yazidis, and other vulnerable minority groups, reported theArmenian Assembly of America.On October 14, Speaker of the House of Representatives

Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) discussedreaching across the aisle to take additional measures.

“We must put together thestrongest bipartisan, bicameralsanctions package similar tothe bipartisan bill the House isadvancing,” Pelosi said.“I will be working across

party lines in a bicameral fash-ion to draft sanctions andmove quickly, appreciatingPresident Trump’s willingnessto work with the Congress,”stated Senator Graham.Last week, a series of mea-

sures were discussed and pro-posed in both congressionalchambers. Senators Grahamand Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)

see CONGRESS, page 8

By Fazel Hawramy

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R2

ARMENIA

New HumanitarianMission Sent to Syria

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — A second group of aArmenian humanitarian mission comprised of de-miners, medics and their security personnel hasbeen dispatched to Syria to provide humanitarianassistance to the Syrian people, the ArmenianCenter for Humanitarian De-Mining and Expertisesaid in a statement on October 14.It said the group was transported to Syria with

support of Russian colleagues, namely on a Russianmilitary transport plane.

A Gavat of Tea byTankian

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — World famous rockmusician, System of a Down co-founder Serj Tankianon October 8 presented his brand of tea called Gavat..“We started selling Gavat tea in the US last year.

It’s my desire to present the tea of my grandmotherto the world. Our tea is part of our Armenian cultureand we try to present our culture to foreigners in awise way,” Tankian said.In Armenia the tea will be sold in supermarkets,

hotels and restaurants. It will be possible to purchaseit also on the net.Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan

together with his wife Anna Hakobyan attended thepresentation ceremony.

Prime Minister ReceivesMinsk Group Co-ChairsYEREVAN (Armenpress) — Prime Minister of

Armenia Nikol Pashinyan received the co-chairs of theOrganization for Security and Cooperation in Europe(OSCE) Minsk Group, Igor Popov of the RussianFederation, Stéphane Visconti of France and AndrewSchofer of the United States of America, as well as thePersonal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, on October 15.Pashinyan and the OSCE Minsk Group leaders dis-

cussed the peaceful settlement process of theNagorno Karabakh conflict. In the context ofstrengthening trust between the parties, the meetingparticipants highlighted the importance of takingactions to strengthen the ceasefire regime.The officials also touched upon the necessity to

prepare populations for peace and the steps takentoward this purpose.

Kurds in Armenia HoldRally Outside US

Embassy YEREVAN (Armenpress) — On October 15 the

Kurdish community representatives held a rally out-side the US Embassy in Yerevan.The Kurdish community of Armenia condemns the

indifference of superpowers towards the ongoingTurkish aggressive operations against the Kurds inSyria. Drawing also the attention of the US on thematter, the Kurdish community today conveyed a let-ter to the US Ambassador in Armenia.“We all condemn the genocidal, murderous policy

of the Turkish authorities. We call on the wholeworld, the international community, the superpow-ers to leave aside their priority interests with aminute, hold the bloody, genocidal hands of Turkeyand say “stop conducting genocide against differentpeoples every 100 years”, Kurdish MP of theArmenian Parliament Knyaz Hasanov said.He stated that today the Turkish authorities’ policy

is to eliminate all Kurds of the world, take the Kurdishlands and populate these territories with more thanthree million Islamists. “This will later become an evilfor the peoples of the world, including for the US andRussia. Today we gathered here to condemn the USwrong policy against Kurds. We apply to the interna-tional community and the superpowers”, he said.The Embassy representative promised to respond

to the letter later.One of the rally participants said they gathered here

to try to stop Turkey from these aggressive actions.On October 9 Turkish forces launched an offensive

in Syria’s north-east.

News From Armenia

INVASION, fgrom page 1Armenia has offered its continued

humanitarian assistance to the Syrianpeople.Yerevan has delivered humanitarian

assistance to Damascus since the startof the war. The assistance is for civilianssuffering from the fighting.Armenia’s humanitarian mission in

Syria continues, with Armenian doctorsand engineers fulfilling their dailyresponsibilities.Armenia has empha-

sized that its presencein Syria is one of peace-building only throughhumanitarian activi-ties.

“Assistance will beprovided exclusivelyoutside the combatzone. Armenian special-ists will carry outhumanitarian activitiessuch as clearing minesand educating localpeople about the mines,as well as the provisionof medical care inAleppo.”— declaredArmenia’s press secre-tary for the Ministry ofDefense, ArtsrunHovhannisyan .After the completion

of the active phase ofhostilities in Syria in February 2019,Armenia sent a humanitarian missionthere. There is a group of engineers anddoctors – 83 people in total.Armenia’s government decided that

citizens of Syria, Lebanon and Iraqcould receive Armenian citizenship intheir respective countries.Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia

Avet Adonts explained that in 2012, thegovernment made a similar decision,and citizens of Syria, Lebanon and Iraqcould obtain citizenship and passportsin the embassies or consulates ofArmenia in these countries. However,

that policy was only in place untilDecember 31, 2018. Adonts noted that:“Given the internal situation and thetension in these countries, it is neces-sary to extend this decision so that citi-zens of these countries can obtainArmenian passports at the embassiesand consulates of their countriesthrough December 31, 2019.”Armenia is ready to help evacuate eth-

nic Armenian residents of northern

Syria affected by Turkey’s military oper-ations conducted there, a senior officialin Yerevan said.Armen Grigorian, the secretary of

Armenia’s Security Council, briefed law-makers on potential governmentactions at a meeting held in theNational Assembly behind the closed doors. Grigorian said

afterwards that Yerevan stands readyto take in ethnic Armenian refugees fromthe area attacked by Turkish troops.

“We have not yet made an officialproposal,” Grigorian told reporters. “Asyou know, not only is the issue at the

center of the government’s attentionbut also our embassy and consulate [inSyria] are in touch with leaders ofthe [Armenian] community. If there issuch a desire [to relocate to Armenia]we will definitely take all measures andprovide all necessary means.”But he added that none of the local

Syrian Armenians has so far expresseda desire to take refuge in Armenia.The precise number of Armenians

remaining in Syria’sKurd i sh - con t ro l l edregions is not known. Asenior ArmenianForeign Ministry officialsaid on Thursdaythat around 3,000 ofthem live in the north-eastern town ofQamishli close tothe Turkish border.

Catholicos UrgesEnd to Bloodshed

Catholicos of AllArmenians Karekin IIstressed that the HolySee of Echmiadzinexpects urgent and prac-tical steps to prevent thefurther bloodshed.

“The danger ofattacks by Turkeyagainst the ethnicminorities and Syrian-

Armenians in particular awaken the rec-ollections of Armenian Genocide carriedout by the same state in 1915-23. Theseactions must be strictly condemned bythe international community,” KarekinII wrote, stressing that he shares thepain and suffering of the Syrian peopleand prays for soonest establishment ofpeace.He stressed that the current develop-

ments do not have any justification.

(Material from Armenpress, RFE/RLand government news sources were

used to compile this report.)

Armenia Condemns Turkey’s Invasion of Syria

California Politicians Meet with President SarkissianYEREVAN (Armenpress) — President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian on October 15 hosted member of the California

State Assembly Adrin Nazarian and Los Angeles City Council member Paul Krekorian, the Presidential Office toldArmenpress.Highlighting the importance of Armenia’s close relations with the state of California, in particular, Los Angeles, the

president mentioned the areas which have a great potential to further deepen this cooperation and the existing ties.Those are the new technologies, science, education, energy and agriculture. Nazarian and Krekorian expressed theirreadiness to do everything possible to contribute to the development of bilateral mutually beneficial cooperation, thestrengthening of the Homeland-Diaspora ties.The meeting participants also touched upon the engagement of the Armenian community of California in the local

public, political and economic life.

President Armen Sarkissian, at right, speaking with Adrin Nazarian, with Los Angeles City Council member Paul Krekorianseated behind him.

“Assistance will be providedexclusively outside the combat zone. Armenian

specialists will carry outhumanitarian activities such

as clearing mines and educating local people about

the mines, as well as the provision of medical care

in Aleppo”

Artsrun HovhannisyanMinistry of Defense, Press Secretary

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 3

ARMENIA

By Muriel Mirak-WeissbachSpecial to the Mirror-Spectator

YEREVAN — There had been plans and revi-sions, deadlines missed and newly defined. Thesecond building of the My Way Socio-Rehabilitation Day Care Center for people withautism was to be reconstructed, its spaciousclassrooms and facilities would provide theframework for vocational education of youngadults. Through training programs led by pro-fessionally qualified instructors and assistants,the students would acquire skills in a variety offields, which would enable them to find mean-ingful employment and thus the means to carryout independent lives.The My Way initiative already has a function-

ing center in Yerevan for children with autism,and has operated with the help of financial sup-port by public and private donors. Plans forreconstructing building number two began in2017, and the organizers succeeded in lining upfunds pledged from various quarters. As is sooften the case in such endeavors, shortfallsoccurred. Not only: the country went through arevolution in spring 2018, and the issue of gov-ernment support was a big question mark. Bythe end of 2018, construction work came to ahalt, as funds had run out. Private donors filledin the temporary gap, among them, the JohnMirak Foundation. Creative fundraising effortsby the center’s leadership generated furthercontributions. Fortunately, a final gift fromFirst Lady Anna Hakobyan’s My Step fund com-pleted the task. On September 28, on the heelsof Armenia’s national day, the new building wasofficially inaugurated.The My Way leadership, as co-founder and

board member Sona Petrosyan put it, had invit-ed the whole world: in accordance with the

charter of the Autism National Foundation,with which My Way is associated, that includedgovernment officials, from the Ministries ofHealth, Education and Social Affairs, as well asthe Yerevan Municipality, who are members ofthe board; individuals and organizations, bothlocal and foreign, that have ever supported MyWay; those who worked specifically on the sec-ond building project, in whatever capacity, suchas architects, constructors, furniture manufac-turers as well as other partners from otherschools and centers in Armenia. Ara Babloyan,the pioneer in addressing the autism problemin Armenia, who has aseparate organization,was invited to speak. Anda number of parents aswell as students, whowere to present flowersor certificates of appreci-ation.A representative of

Nune Sarkissian, the wifeof President ArmenSarkissian, came in a non-official capacity andPrime Minister NikolPashinyan’s wife, AnnaHakobyan, attended theevent . Hakobyanappeared withHovhannes Ghazaryan,the executive director of

her own charitable fund, My Step. Due to thehigh level political participation, the event wascovered by major press outlets on television andInternet. Representatives of Hakobyan’s own fund had

visited My Way and reported back on their pos-itive impressions. Then Hakobyan herself visit-ed the center and, supplied with the required

documentation of its pro-ject plans and costs,decided to allocateresources from her fundto fill in the missingamount. That donationwas crucial in ensuringthat the entire renova-tion budget could be cov-ered. With that, My Waywas able to go ahead,complete the work andannounce the inaugura-tion.This was a donation

from her fund, not fromthe government. AsBabloyan made the pointin his speech, “The issuesof people with autism arenot the concern of a par-

ticular government, but a problem that pertainsto the whole society, the whole country, thewhole nation.”That said, the government was indeed repre-

sented. The First Deputy Minister of SocialAffairs and Labor Gemafin Gasparyan attendedand expressed his support, which augurs wellfor future relations.

Guests from Germany

One might add to Babloyan’s remarks thatthe autism issue pertains to the whole world. Infact, the impetus for establishing My Way in

Armenia came from Germany. It was throughthe efforts of Maria Kaminski, mediated byRenate Beil, that a group of mothers of childrenwith autism gained the knowledge, guidanceand confidence to initiate a center in Yerevan(See https://mirrorspectator.com/2017/06/15/my-way-is-helping-children-with-autism-in-armenia/).Kaminski (https://www.autismus.de/ueber-

uns/struktur-des-bundesverbandes/vorstand-autistischer-beirat.html) is director of theGerman organization, Autismus, and founder ofcenters for autism throughout the country. Shetravelled to Yerevan to attend the inauguration,together with Martina Steinhaus, who is direc-tor of the Autismus Therapiez-entrum undWerkstatt für Menschen mit Autismus (Autismtherapy center and workshop for people withautism). Steinhaus held a work-

shop the day prior to theinauguration for staffmembers of My Way andother centers. Attendantswere excited with theworkshop and foundencouragement inKaminski‘s assurancesthat My Way was on theright track; she stressedthat in the long run it issociety that reaps thebenefits when it createsconditions for peoplewith disabilities to con-tribute, to engage inmeaningful employment, to enjoy the quality oflife. This, she said, is the only productive way todeal with autism and other disabilities. Thepresence of the pioneer from Germany wasappreciated not only as a personal gesture butalso for the strategic message it sends toArmenia’s officialdom; Kaminski, who also hadthe opportunity to visit the Ministry of Laborand Social Affairs, is a foreign expert whoseviews and experience have won recognition andrespect.

The Istanbul Diaspora

Another key protagonist in the effort torenovate My Way’s second building is theIstanbul diaspora. In April, My Way present-ed an exhibition of art works by board mem-bers and students, which was hosted at theKaragezian Armenian School Hall(https://mirrorspectator.com/2019/06/06/artists-launch-creative-fundraising-in-istan-bul/). Through the sale of art works, My Waysucceeded in raising a very significantamount towards the renovation budget, leav-ing that last gap that Hakobyan’s fund thenwould fill.

Representing the Istanbul diaspora wasAni Kurtyan, who had been the inspirationbehind the exhibition idea. Also present wasTania Panosoghlu and her husband MisakPanusoghlu, daughter and son-in-law of HaykArslanyan; all three had worked to make theIstanbul event a success.In addition to Istanbul, Geneva and Vienna

were also represented, by their Women’sGuilds, Suzy Sahakyan and Gamara Babayan,respectively

Prayers, Thanks and Music

Prior to the inaugural event, participantsgathered in the morning in church. The Headof the Gougark Diocese Bishop Ter SepuhChuljian presided over the service, andoffered prayers for the deceased relatives of

all those who had contributed to the center. The official act of cutting the ribbon

opened the inaugural ceremony; Ani Kurtyanand First Lady Anna Hakobyan did the hon-ors. Kurtyan was the first speaker, andacknowledged all supporters, former and cur-rent, foreign and local, official and private.There followed speeches, music and the dis-tribution of certificates of appreciation.Archbishop Sepuh Chuljian addressed thegathering and officially blessed the newbuilding. Sona Petrosyan conducted a tour ofthe edifice, which was festively decoratedwith blue balloons and flowers. In the gardenbetween the two buildings further remarkswere delivered by co-founder and board mem-ber Hasmik Margaryan, as well as the moth-er of a former student who has since movedback to the US. Only the weather was uncooperative, but

everyone found shelter under tents that thechildren use for summer outdoor activities.Besides, as the My Way founding mothersquipped, it was actually fine if they had rainin the end; wasn’t the film about the youngman with autism called “Rain Man”?

‘My Way’ Center for Autistic Children Celebrates Expansion

Ani Kurtyan and First Lady Anna Hakobyan cut the red ribbon.

Maria Kaminski addresses the gathering

The new building

Sona Petrosyan leads the tour with First Lady Anna Hakobyan

T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R4

INTERNATIONAL

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9

Chile Interested inArmenian Goods

YEREVAN (Arka) — Armenia’s Deputy Minister ofEconomy Varos Simonyan received on Friday,October 11, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs ofChile for Economic Affairs Rodrigo Yanez.Simonyan said the visit was a good opportunity to

rethink the framework of bilateral economic rela-tions. Yanez said the delegation comprised govern-ment officials and private sector representatives.According to him, cooperation between Armenia andChile can be of great importance in the context ofthe fact that both countries serve as hubs for otherlarge foreign markets.He expressed interest in considering the possibili-

ty of importing Armenian goods to Chile. Yanez alsosaid that the Chilean side is interested in identifyingopportunities for cooperation with the EEU membercountries.Simonyan spoke about free trade agreements

between EEU and third countries. He also spoke atthe request of the guests, about the framework ofcooperation between Armenia and the EuropeanUnion.

Italy Asks UEFA toReconsider ChampionsLeague final In TurkeyROME (Panorama.am) — Italy’s Sports Minister

Vincenzo Spadafora has urged the European footballgoverning body UEFA to reconsider the decision toplay next year’s Champions League final in Istanbulafter Turkey’s bloody offensive in northern Syria.Spadafora wrote to UEFA President Aleksander

Ceferin asking “to consider whether it is appropriateto keep the Champions League final in Istanbul”after Turkey’s “very grave acts against the Kurdishcivilian population.”In the letter, quoted by Italian news agency ANSA,

Spadafora referred to the European Union’s con-demnation of Turkish actions and called onEuropean football “to take the most courageouschoice and to show, once again, that football is aninstrument of peace.”The final is scheduled for May 30, 2020.

Conductor SmbatyanPerforms in Milan

MILAN (Panorama.am) — The artistic director andprincipal conductor of the Armenian StateSymphony Orchestra (ASSO) Sergey Smbatyan per-formed recently at the Teatro alla Scala, one theworld’s most famous opera houses in Milan, Italy.He led the chamber orchestra of the Italian opera

house on October 14, the Armenian SymphonyOrchestra’s press service reported.The concert program featured pieces by both clas-

sical and contemporary composers – Edvard Grieg,Max Bruch, Krzysztof Penderecki and VakhtangKakhidze. Violinist Simonide Braconi and pianist,composer Vakhtang Kakhidze performed as soloistsduring the concert.

Armenia Seeks to OpenEmbassy in Australia

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — The ArmenianMinistry of Foreign Affairs is conducting extensivenegotiations in the direction of opening anArmenian embassy in Australia, Foreign MinisterZohrab Mnatsakanyan said in parliament on October2 in response to a question from My Step bloc law-maker Arman Boshyan.“This issue is on our agenda for already a while

and we are in pretty extensive negotiations. Our goalis to have an embassy in Australia, and we are pro-ceeding in accordance to priorities. Australia is inour list of direct priorities, however in order toexpress the timeframes of our goals more clearly weneed to complete certain negotiations with our part-ners in order to be able to have a reasonable programto open an embassy. Our goal is to do this as quicklyas possible,” the FM said.Mnatsakanyan did not mention timeframe for

opening the embassy.

International News

CRIMES, from page 1al-Sharqiya armed group, which is affili-ated with Turkey,” said Rupert Colville,spokesperson for the UN HighCommissioner for Human Rights. “Onthe same day, we received reports indi-cating that a well-known Kurdish femalepolitician, Hevrin Khalaf, was also exe-cuted on the same highway, apparentlyalso by Ahrar al-Sharqiya fighters.”“Turkey could be deemed responsible

as a State for violations committed bytheir affiliated armed groups, as long asTurkey exercises effective control overthese groups, or the operations in thecourse of which those violationsoccurred,” the human rights body said. Turkish-backed proxy forces are

accused of serious human rights abusesduring the invasion of the enclave ofAfrin early last year in which thousandsof civilians were displaced.Earlier this month, the Britain-based

Syrian Observatory for Human Rightssaid Turkish-backed forces had killed“an elderly man with severe visualimpairment in Afrin’s countryside innorthwest Aleppo.”The same forces have been involved in

fierce fighting in several border townssince last Wednesday, backed by Turkishwarplanes and artillery batteries.“Turkey’s unilateral action was

unnecessary and impulsive. PresidentErdogan bears full responsibility for itsconsequences, to include a potentialISIS resurgence, possible war crimes,and a growing humanitarian crisis,” USSecretary of Defense Mark Esper tweet-ed on Tuesday. The UN Human Rights Office said

ambulances, health facilities, and a med-ical point belonging to the Kurdish RedCrescent were attacked by eitherTurkish forces or their proxies in Sari

Kani (Ras al-Ain), Kobane (Ain al-Arab),Geri Spi (Tel Abyad) and Derik (al-Malikya). “We are also receiving reportsof other attacks on civilian infrastruc-ture, including power lines, water sup-plies and bakeries,” the statement read.Kurdish sources said on Tuesday that

the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) hasregained control of the strategic town ofSari Kani (Ras al-Ain) on the border,which has been under constant Turkishbombardment since October 7.In Manbij, on the western edge of ter-

ritories controlled by the SDF and theirallies, Syrian regime forces have movedinto the city as part of a deal to see theSyrian Arab Army secure the bordersagainst Turkey’s incursion. “We are out of Manbij,” the coalition

tweeted on Tuesday. “They Syrian government has full

control over the city of Manbij and near-by settlements,” the Russian defesceministry announced in a statement onTuesday, AFP reported.

Syrian Kurds Appeal for Aid

In related news, the Kurdish-ledadministration in northern Syria hasappealed for urgent humanitarian aidafter the withdrawal of internationalNGOs amid a worsening humanitariancrisis sparked by Turkey’s military incur-sion into the territory.In a statement released on Tuesday

afternoon, officials appealed for assis-tance in an effort to “avoid exacerbatingthe humanitarian crisis caused by thebarbaric Turkish attack.”Local schools are now hosting fami-

lies displaced from the border towns ofTal Abyad, Ras al-Ain, and surroundingvillages as camps reach full capacity.Over 275,000 have been displaced sincethe start of the Turkish incursion,

70,000 of whom are children, accordingto the administration, the SyrianDemocratic Council.According to International

Organization for Migration (IOM)reports, approximately 180 familieshave arrived in the Kurdistan Region ofIraq in the past two days.The Kurdish Red Crescent (KRC), a

local charity, said it is running low onsupplies. In a statement published toFacebook on Sunday, it lamented the“extremely limited support” for internal-ly displaced persons (IDPs) and accusedthe Turkish government of breakinginternational law in obstructing thedelivery of aid to local civilians.KRC said many international aid orga-

nizations made the decision to leavenorthern Syria as fighting wagesbetween the Syrian Democratic Forces(SDF) and Turkish-backed militias, adeal was reached between the SDF andDamascus that will see regime forcesmove to protect the borders, and the“unpredictable” actions of Turkey. The Kurdish charity is now reported-

ly the only aid organization providingemergency services in northern Syriaand faces severe difficulties followingthe withdrawal of “essential expat staff”over the past two days. Several NGO’s have gone public with

their decision to withdraw from thearea, citing security concerns and logis-tical difficulties arising from heavy fight-ing across the region. Some United Nations agencies are

still operating. UNICEF said on Mondayit was stepping in to deliver water toover eight locations after other agenciessuspended their activities. In the pastten days, the organization had delivered95,000 liters to collective shelters acrossthe northeast.

UN Blasts Turkey for Executions,Possible War Crimes

STRASBOURG (RFE/RL) — TheEuropean Court of Human Rights(ECHR) has formally agreed to adviseArmenia’s Constitutional Court on thelegality of coup charges brought againstformer President Robert Kocharyan.Kocharyan was charged last year

under Article 300.1 of the ArmenianCriminal Code dealing with violentseizure of power. The accusation stemsfrom the 2008 post-election street clash-es in Yerevan which left ten people dead.In separate appeals, Kocharyan and a

district court judge in Yerevan asked theConstitutional Court early this year todetermine whether the article conformsto the Armenian constitution. The ex-president’s lawyers argued, among otherthings, that the clause was added to theCriminal Code in 2009 and cannot beused retroactively against him.In July, the Constitutional Court sus-

pended the consideration of theappeals, asking the ECHR as well as theCouncil of Europe’s Venice Commissionfor “advisory opinions” on the matter.“The European Court of Human

Rights has accepted a request for anadvisory opinion from theConstitutional Court of Armenia andhas constituted a Grand Chamber of 17judges to consider it,” the Strasbourg-based tribunal said in a weekend state-ment.The statement said the judges will

arrive at a common conclusion regard-ing Article 300.1’s conformity with theEuropean Convention on HumanRights. “Advisory opinions, which aregiven by the Grand Chamber, give rea-sons and are not binding,” it stressed.The ECHR gave Kocharyan’s legal

team and the Armenian parliament untilNovember 19 to present “written obser-vations” to the chamber. Other interest-ed parties, including the Armenian gov-ernment, can send their comments toStrasbourg by December 4, according tothe statement.Armenia’s representative to the

ECHR, Yeghishe Kirakosyan, said onOctober 14 that the government willexercise that right. Kirakosyandeclined to shed light on the govern-

ment’s likely arguments.Kocharyan, who was arrested again in

June, is specifically accused of illegallyusing Armenian army units againstopposition protesters that demandedthe rerun of a disputed presidential elec-tion held in February 2008, two monthsbefore he completed his second andfinal term. The 65-year-old ex-presidentwas also charged with bribery early thisyear. He denies all charges leveledagainst him as politically motivated.

European Court to Give Advisory Opinion on Kocharyan Case

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — Soon alegislative initiative on officially recog-nizing the Armenian Genocide will beintroduced in the Parliament ofMoldova, Accent TV reported.According to the report the announce-

ment was made by Moldovan lawmakerGaik Vartanean at a meeting of the par-liamentary commission on foreign policyand European integration, on October15. According to Accent TV this is thefirst time ever that an ArmenianGenocide recognition initiative is beingannounced in the Moldovan parliament.Vartanean is also the head of the local

Armenian community.He spoke at a confirmation hearing of

ambassadors, and asked a questionfrom Dmitry Kroitor, nominated as acandidate for the post of the Moldovanambassador to Turkey.“Given the fact that soon a legislative

initiative will be introduced in the

Moldovan parliament to recognize theArmenian Genocide and Moldova mayjoin most countries of the EuropeanUnion, as well as the RussianFederation, which have already recog-nized this fact, this may entail negativereaction from the Turkish government”,he said as quoted by Accent Tv.He asked the question in the context

of a previous question regarding thecandidate’s attitude to Turkey’s offen-sive in Syria, according to Accent Tv.The lawmaker also mentioned that

one of the key points of disagreementsbetween Turkey and the EU is Turkey’sdenial of the Armenian Genocide.In 2015, the European Parliament

adopted a resolution reaffirming its1987 resolution according to which themassacres of Armenians in 1915-1917by the Ottoman Empire was recognizedas genocide in conformity with the UN1948 convention.

Armenian Genocide recognition resolution toBe Introduced in Moldovan Parliament

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 5

INTERNATIONAL

YEREVAN (Armenpress) — A delegation ofGeorgian leaders, including Prime MinisterGiorgi Gakharia and Foreign Minister DavidZalkaliani visited Armenia on October 14 and15. They met with President Armen Sarkissian,Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and ForeignMinister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan.President Armen Sarkissian met with

Gakharia. During a private meeting Sarkissiancommended Gakharia’s official visit to Armeniaand congratulated him on assuming office ofprime minister, and wished good luck and real-ization of plans, the President’s Office said in areadout.Speaking about the Armenian-Georgian rela-

tions, Sarkissian said that the two peoples havea millennia old history of friendship. “Howevernow we are in the beginning of the 21st century.New century, new issues. But I believe that thisis also a great opportunity for our two states andpeoples,” the Armenian President said.Gakharia thanked his hosts for the warm

reception and conveyed Georgian PresidentSalome Zurabishvili’s warm greetings to theArmenian President.Gakharia said that it is a great honor for him

to visit Armenia as prime minister for the firsttime and to have the chance to bring his con-tribution to the further deepening of the cen-turies old ties of the two peoples. “Our ances-tors strengthened our friendship, and now wemust think more about business. We are herewith the thinking for our economic cooperationto have impact on our peoples’ welfare,” hesaid.The private meeting was followed by an

expanded format one with participation of thedelegations of the two countries.“We discussed with Mr. Prime Minister sever-

al very important issues. And my conclusion isthe same: the opportunities of our joint activi-ties are a lot bigger,” Sarkissian said. “We cando many things together. I want Mr. PrimeMinister to be certain – both the people ofArmenia, the Government of Armenia, and thePresidential administration will do everythingfor these opportunities to become reality”.

In turn the Georgian premier said: “We dis-cussed issues, as to what should our young peo-ple, citizens do to be bold in the global, com-petitive world, to utilize all opportunities of theday and become more competitive and proac-tive. I am convinced that through our jointefforts we will achieve our citizens being able toovercome this competition.The friendly relations of Armenia and

Georgia have started to develop with a specialwarmth, these relations are very important forArmenia, Pashinyan said during a joint pressconference with Gakharia in Yerevan.“I am sure that Georgia has noticed that start-

ing from the first day of my tenure in office theArmenian-Georgian relations have started devel-oping with special warmth. This reflects mybelief that the relations with Georgia are of spe-cial importance for Armenia”, Pashinyan said.

He also highlighted that the dynamics of con-tacts, the level of mutual trust, as well as thecurrent visit of the Georgian premier prove thatGeorgia also pays a special importance to therelations with Armenia.Pashinyan assessed his talks with the

Georgian counterpart as important and pro-ductive. “We have such a broad bilateral agen-da that it’s difficult to discuss all issues during

one meeting. We both highly appreciated the re-launch of the operation of the Armenian-Georgian inter-governmental commission aftera long pause. We expressed confidence that itwill be possible to implement the agreementsreflected in the protocol of the commission’s10th session through joint efforts”, NikolPashinyan said, adding that they also highlight-ed holding an Armenian-Georgian businessforum in Yerevan.

The Armenian and Georgian premiers alsoemphasized the importance of implementingtransportation and energy projects in terms ofdeveloping both the bilateral economic rela-tions and ensuring regional stability.Pashinyan said the formation of regional

peace and security environment is one of thekey foreign policy tasks of Armenia. “In thisregard we are confident that the continuousdevelopment of the Armenian-Georgian rela-tions should be free of the impact of any exter-nal factors. In this regard we touched upon theregional conflicts. We agreed that the compre-hensive and lasting settlement of conflicts ispossible exclusively through peaceful means inaccordance with the principles of internationallaw. I once again presented our position thateach conflict is unique, therefore, their solu-tions must derive from their essence,”Pashinyan said.Gakharia visited the Tsitsernakaberd

Armenian Genocide Memorial. Accompanied byForeign Minister Mnatsakanyan, Yerevan MayorHayk Marutyan, Director of the ArmenianGenocide Museum-Institute foundationHarutyun Marutyan and other officials, theGeorgian premier laid flowers at the EternalFlame.Gakharia watered the fir tree planted by him

while serving as Georgia’s deputy prime minis-ter and minister of interior.Mnatsakanyan on October 15 met with his

Georgian counterpart, Zalkaliani.“The sides addressed a number of issues of

bilateral interest. The foreign ministers reiterat-ed mutual readiness to deepen in all possibledirections the cooperation based on many cen-turies of friendship between the two countries,outlining the circle of upcoming steps in thisdirection. The FMs of Armenia and Georgiaexchanged ideas around cooperation and dia-logue with the EU within the framework ofEastern Partnership. The regional situation andissues were comprehensively discussed. Bothsides attached importance to maintainingregional peace, security and stability,” theArmenian foreign ministry said in a readout.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, right, and Georgian Premier Girogi Gakharia

Top Georgian Delegation Visits Armenia

ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan (RFE/RL) —Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev andArmenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan dis-cussed the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict aftertrading barbs during a summit of former Sovietrepublics held in Turkmenistan’s capitalAshgabat on Friday, October 11.Aliyev started the tense verbal exchange at a

plenary session of the summit of theCommonwealth of Independent States (CIS) byaccusing Armenia of “glorifying fascists.” Henoted that the former Armenian governmenterected in Yerevan the statue of GareginNzhdeh, an Armenian nationalist statesmanwho had fought against the Bolsheviks andlater collaborated with Nazi Germany.Pashinyan responded by accusing Aliyev of

distorting the history of Armenia and theSecond World War.“Ilham Heydarovich’s speech leaves one with

a sense that [Adolf] Hitler played a secondaryrole and that the Nazi movement was led byGaregin Nzhdeh,” he said. “Yet the truth is thatGaregin Nzhdeh fought against Turkish occu-pation of Armenia, against the genocide ofArmenians and … also commanded, togetherwith many Russian officers, a very importantsection of the frontline during the Armenian-Turkish war in 1918.”“I think it’s inappropriate to use this [CIS]

format for distorting history and adding sometension to the atmosphere of this importantmeeting,” added Pashinyan.Despite the public recriminations, Pashinyan

and Aliyev spoke with each other at a dinner inAshgabat hosted by Turkmenistan’s PresidentGurbanguly Berdymuhamedov for fellow CISleaders later in the day.Pashinyan’s spokesman, Vladimir

Karapetyan, told the Armenpress news agency

that the two men discussed the Karabakh con-flict and, in particular, “possibilities of reducingtensions” and “upcoming steps” in the negoti-ating process mediat-ed by the UnitedStates, Russia andFrance. The conver-sation lasted forabout two hours,said Karapetyan.Aliyev and

Pashinyan held fiveface-to-face meetingsbetween September2018 and May 2019,raising hopes for asettlement of theNagorno-Karabakhconflict. Their firstmeeting was fol-lowed by a signifi-cant decrease inceasefire violationsin the conflict zone.There have been nosigns of further progress in Armenian-Azerbaijani peace talks in the last few months.Born in the Russian Empire in 1886, Nzhdeh

was one of the prominent military leaders of anindependent Armenian republic formed in1918. In 1920, he mounted armed resistanceagainst the republic’s takeover by BolshevikRussia in Syunik, a mountainous region insoutheastern Armenia.Nzhdeh was one of several exiled Armenian

leaders in Europe who pledged allegiance toNazi Germany in 1942 with the stated aim ofsaving Soviet Armenia from a possible Turkishinvasion after what they expected to be a Sovietdefeat by the Third Reich.

Nzhdeh surrendered to advancing RedArmy divisions in Bulgaria in 1944 afterreportedly offering Josef Stalin to mobilize

Armenians for a Soviet assault on Turkey. In1948, a Soviet court sentenced him to 25years in prison on charges that mainlystemmed from his “counterrevolutionary”activities in 1920-1921.Speaking at the Ashgabat summit, Pashinyan

portrayed Nzhdeh as a victim of Stalin’s politi-cal repressions. “Nzhdeh died in the Vladimirprison [in 1955,]” he said. “Many prominentSoviet figures died in the Vladimir prison and[writer Aleksandr] Solzhenitsyn was in theGulag. Do we consider everyone imprisonedfrom 1937 through the 1950s political prison-ers?”Nzhdeh was rehabilitated in Armenia after

the republic’s last Communist government wasremoved from power in 1990. He is widely cred-ited with preserving Armenian control over

Syunik. He is also revered by many Armeniansas the founder of a new brand of Armeniannationalism that emerged in the 1930s.Former President Serzh Sargsyan’s

Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) hasespoused his Tseghakron ideology, which putsthe emphasis on armed self-defense and self-reliance, ever since it was set up in the early1990s.Senior HHK representatives, who are highly

critical of the current Armenian government,were quick to praise Pashinyan’s reaction toAliyev’s remarks. “Nikol’s response was appro-priate,” the former ruling party’s deputy chair-man, Armen Ashotian, wrote on Facebook.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan (L) and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev attend a summit of the Commonwealth ofIndependent States in Ashgabat, October 11, 2019.

Aliyev, Pashinyan Trade Barbs, Talk At CIS Summit

6

Western Diocese To Hold AnnualChristmas Ball On December 7BURBANK, Calif. — Members of the

Christmas Ball Committee of the WesternDiocese have begun plans and preparations forthe 16th Annual Christmas Ball. Under theleadership of Raffi Kendirjian, chair, this joyfulevent will be held on Saturday, December 7, atthe Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of theArshag and Eleanor Dickranian Complex 3325North Glenoaks Boulevard.The festivities begin at 7 p.m. with a reception

and gala Tree Lighting Ceremony in theTurpanjian Plaza. Families and friends gathertogether to enjoy the large beautifully decoratedtree, the delicious hors’deurves and inviting cock-tail drinks in the Paul Brothers Galleria. Dinnerand an exciting program will follow at 8 p.m. inthe beautifully decorated Kalaydjian Hall.The theme for this year’s ball is “Believe.” As

in year’s past, eight illustrious community mem-bers will be recognized for their distinguishedcareers and their dedicated service to both theArmenian and American communities. The Christmas Ball was created by

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, todevelop and establish an auspicious occasionthat brings the community together to cele-

brate the launch of the Christmas Season andthe numerous achievements that have beenaccomplished throughout the year.The archbishop stated: “What was spear-

headed 16 years ago grew to become a presti-gious and a well-known holiday celebrationwith hundreds of people attending it annually.Since the inception of the Christmas Ball, theWestern Diocese has recognized many medicaldoctors, lawyers, artists, musicians, philan-thropists, community activists and leaders,humble servants of the church, and many oth-ers representing various professional fields.”Kendirjian stated that a special reception will

be held by the Christmas Ball Committee at theWestern Diocese to meet and greet this year’shonorees who will be presented on December7. At the event guests will enjoy a video pre-sentation showcasing each of the honoreeswith live on the screen action and the opportu-nity to hear first-hand about their careers andgoals.Entertainment will be provided by Greg

Hosharian and his Band. Guests will enjoy boththe traditional Armenian music and familiarAmerican tunes. A booklet containing the biographies of the

honorees will be available to commemorate theevent and afford families and friends the oppor-tunity to recognize the honorees. BookletSponsorships in special categories are alsoavailable by contacting Hasmik Keyribarian:email Hasmik.Keyribarian@gmail.com, For tickets email: araxie.boyamian@gmail.com.

Community NewsS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

Glendale CommunityCollege CanCommemorate April 24Without Losing RevenueSACRAMENTO, Calif. — On October 8, the

Glendale Community College ArmenianGenocide Commemoration Bill, SB 568,authored by State Senator Anthony J.Portantino (D–La Cañada Flintridge), wassigned by Governor Gavin Newsom. Prior to thepassage of SB 568, GCC would have had to for-feit nearly $500,000 if it were to close on April 24to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. Unlikethe K-12 Education Code, which gave the GUSDthe ability to properly respect and close on April24th, Community Colleges had no such authori-ty prior to today. This situation created an emo-tional and practical problem for many Glendalefamilies where one child attended GCC andanother attended a school which closed. It alsocreated a significant financial difficulty for GCCin order to properly respect such an importantday for many of the school families and thegreater GCC community. To rectify the situation,GCC Board Members requested legislative helpfrom Senator Portantino. As a long-time friendand supporter of the college and the ArmenianAmerican Community, Senator Portantinorespectfully took up the cause. “Two years ago, I was honored to have been

asked by GCC Board members to help offset thecost of closing on April 24th. Today, I am veryproud to have sent a bill to the Governor to helpour Armenian Community, greater community, thefaculty, administrators, and students of GCCsolemnly and appropriately commemorate theArmenian Genocide without unnecessary financialpressure. I am grateful to Governor Newsom, whocontinues to support and recognize the importanceof the Armenian American Community inCalifornia, for his signature, sensitivity and under-standing of this situation,” commented Portantino.Portantino negotiated directly with the

Community College Chancellor’s Office to bringan amenable solution to this issue. The billreceived bipartisan support in the Senate andthe Assembly. The signing of SB 568 is the cul-mination of those discussions and actions. “Glendale Community College commends

Senator Portantino for his leadership and theLegislature and Governor Newsom for their sup-port in enactment of this important law. GCCwill use this legal day of remembrance, and otheropportunities throughout the year, to educateour students and communities about theArmenian Genocide to assure such atrocitiesnever happen again,” said Dr. David Viar,Superintendent/President of GCC.“On behalf of the Board of Trustees of

Glendale Community College, I thank SenatorPortantino’s tireless effort on behalf of our stu-dents. We are extremely grateful that theSenator championed this issue and enabled us tocommemorate the Armenian Genocide by clos-ing our campuses without incurring a financialpenalty,” added Board of Trustees President Dr.Vahé Peroomian.GCC President Dr. David Viar and Executive

Vice President Dr. Anthony Culpepper travelledto Sacramento over the last year to offer testi-mony in support of SB 568. In addition toChairing the Senate Appropriations Committee,Senator Portantino also Chairs the SenateSelect Committee on California, Armenia &Artsakh Trade, Art, Cultural and EconomicExchange. He recently helped facilitate the for-mal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)between California and the Republic of Armeniawhich included the establishment of a CaliforniaTrade Desk in Yerevan. He was in New York withGovernor Newsom, Prime Minister Pashinyanand High Commissioner Zareh Sinanyan for thehistoric MOU signing event. “It is such good karma that I was sitting in

Yerevan when I received the news from theGovernor’s office that SB 568 was signed. Clearly,the benefits of SB 568 go far beyond financial.When GCC closes on April 24th it educates manynon-Armenians about the historical significance ofApril 24 and the horror of the first Genocide of the20th century,” concluded Portantino.

St. Vartan Cathedral HostsEastern and Oriental

Orthodox Church LeadersNEW YORK — On October 8, Eastern and Oriental Orthodox leaders met at

New York’s St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral for a meeting of the joint commis-sion of both “families” of churches. It was the first such meeting in nearly adecade.The meeting also provided an occasion for Bishop Daniel Findikyan, Primate

of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, to welcome ArchbishopElpidophoros, the recently-installed leader of the Greek Orthodox Church inAmerica, to the cathedral for the first time.Following a prayer service in the sanctuary, the attendees convened in the

Diocesan Center’s tahlij for their meeting and lunch. In exploring practicalways to advance the relations between Eastern and Oriental Orthodox church-es in the US, the clergymen discussed marriage and baptism, religious educa-tion, and common areas of advocacy, including concerns over the Middle East.“St. Vartan Cathedral has always been friendly ground for many Christian

denominations to gather together for theological conversation, collaboration,and prayer,” said Bishop Daniel. “We were delighted to continue this traditionby hosting our Orthodox brothers.” Findikyan and Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the Diocesan Legate and

Ecumenical Director, represented the Armenian Church at the meeting. Alsojoining in the prayer service were Diocesan vicar Fr. Simeon Odabashian andCathedral Vicar Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan.“This meeting is joyful, historic, and promising,” said Bishop David of the

Coptic Orthodox Church, who leads the Standing Conference of OrientalOrthodox Churches (SCOOCH). “There is a spirit of good will and potential tomove forward in faith and in hope.”

see ORTHODOX, page 7

Archbishop Vicken Aykazian and Diocesan Primate Bishop Daniel Findikyanspeak with Archbishop Elpidophoros, leader of the Greek Orthodox Church inAmerica, on the plaza of New York’s St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral, during ameeting of the Joint Commission of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches.(photographer Artur Petrosyan)

Coptic Orthodox Bishop David, who leads the Standing Conference of OrientalOrthodox Churches (at left), speaks with Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Kawak(right) during the Joint Commission of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churchesat New York’s St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral. (photographer Artur Petrosyan)

“Since the inception of theChristmas Ball, theWestern Diocese has recognized many

medical doctors, lawyers,artists, musicians, philanthropists,

community activists andleaders, humble servantsof the church, and many

others representing various professional

fields.”

–Archbishop Hovnan Derderian

LOS ANGELES — On October 9, anArmenian Assembly of America delegationmet with California State Senator HollyMitchell (D-30) in her Los Angeles DistrictOffice. First elected to the State Legislature in

2010, Mitchell represents nearly 1 million res-idents of the 30th Senate District, whichranges from the border at Century City toSouth Los Angeles and encompasses CulverCity, Ladera Heights, Cheviot Hills, CrenshawDistrict, the University of SouthernCalifornia, downtown Los Angeles, and a por-tion of Inglewood. Throughout her distin-guished tenure in the California StateSenate, more than 80 bills written byMitchell have been signed into law, includingones aimed at “improving human services,expanding access to healthcare, defendingthe civil rights of minorities and the undocu-mented, and reducing the numbers of chil-dren growing up in poverty.” In addition toher chairmanship of the Senate Budget andFiscal Review Committee, she also chairs theSenate Select Committee on SocialDeterminants of Children’s Well-Being andthe Joint Legislative Budget Committee.Senator Mitchell sits on the Senate HealthCommittee; the Joint Committee on Rules;the Public Safety Committee; the Labor,Public Employment and RetirementCommittee; and the Insurance Committee.

Armenian Assembly of America SouthernCalifornia Regional Council member, HelenHaig, expressed the Armenian Assembly’sgratitude to Senator Mitchell for her vocalsupport of AB 1320 (the Divestment fromTurkish Bonds Act) in committee and on the

Senate floor. This bill was authored by CAState Assemblymember Adrin Nazarian, andsigned into law by California Governor GavinNewsom last week in Sacramento.Armenian Assembly delegate Arthur

Kokozian and Western Region Director

Mihran Toumajan thanked Senator Mitchellfor her support of SB 302, authored by CAState Senator Anthony Portantino, whichcalls for the establishment of a CaliforniaTrade and Investment Office in Armenia. Inlate September in New York City, in the pres-ence of Armenia Prime Minister NikolPashinyan, Governor Newsom and ArmeniaForeign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyansigned an MoU to establish a framework for aCA Trade and Investment office in Armenia.

7S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMUNITY NEWS

St. Vartan Cathedral HostsEastern and OrientalOrthodox Church LeadersORTHODOX, from page 6Elpidophoros, who chairs the Assembly of

Orthodox Bishops of the USA, said that theEastern and Oriental Orthodox churches share“the closest relationships in the Christianworld.” While the member churches have longdeveloped separately, he said he was encour-aged by the fraternal spirit among them. “Thispractical approach will breathe life into thechurch,” he said.“The forward-looking, pragmatic, loving tone

shared by all the bishops fills me with hope andexpectation,” agreed Findikyan.The Joint Commission of Eastern and Oriental

Orthodox Churches will meet again inDecember. In the meantime it is planning a jointChristmas concert for later this year, and a pan-Orthodox youth conference in the summer.

From left, Armenian Assembly of America Western Region Director Mihran Toumajan, ArmenianAssembly of America Southern California Regional Council member Helen Haig, California StateSenator Holly Mitchell (D-30), and Armenian Assembly of America delegate Arthur Kokozian

Armenian Assembly Delegation Thanks CA State Senator Holly Mitchell for Support

Agape Circle’s 6thAnnual LuncheonTakes Place in LosAngeles in OctoberBURBANK, Calif. — The humanitarian efforts

of Agape Circle of the Western Diocese will befurther invigorated during its sixth annual lun-cheon at The Castaway Restaurant that willserve as an opportunity to raise funds forChildren’s Hospital Los Angeles and YWCAGlendale. A valued member of its community,Marlene Yerevanian, will be honored for herdedication and contribution to Our Lady ofArmenia, a non-profit that secures the develop-ment of orphaned, abandoned and needy chil-dren in the homeland, on October 17.Hosted by Sato Yessayan, in memory of her

mother, Araxi Barooni, alongside co-chairsPeggy Kankababian and Armine Bedrossian aswell as Alice Chakrian, chair of Agape Circle,the keynote speaker of the event will be Dr.Thomas C. Lee, Director of the Vision Center,Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and AssociateProfessor of Ophthalmology, Keck School ofMedicine, who has been a longtime collaboratorwith Agape Circle. A thought-provoking paneldiscussion will follow titled, What WomenReally Want to Talk About, featuring NoraChitilian, MS, LMFT, Lisa Arslanian, PsyD, AidaTorosyan, IIN Certified Holistic Life Coach andStella Baghdassarian, DDS, HHC, who willexplore a variety of topics related to family andwomen.In its brief yet productive history, Agape

Circle has raised hundreds of thousands of dol-lars for philanthropic endeavors benefiting LosAngeles and Armenia that include servicesranging from healthcare to homelessness. Inaddition to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles andYWCA Glendale, Agape Circle has also con-tributed to the Starkey Foundation, which hasdonated hearing aids to Armenia and to theArmenian Relief Society to aid needy families inCalifornia. The Agape Circle’s 6th annual luncheon

will take place at 10:30 am in the StarlightRoom of the Castaway Restaurant, 1250 EastHarvard Road in Burbank. Donation is $100per guest. Make checks payable to “WesternDiocese - Agape Circle.” RSVPto agape@wcdna.com.

WATERTOWN — St. Stephen’s ArmenianElementary School (SSAES) is preparing to cel-ebrate its 35th Anniversary on November 16,2019, with a benefit evening themed “ShapingOur Future, Preserving Our Culture,” to be heldat The Westin Waltham, under the Auspices ofArchbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of theEastern Prelacy. On this occasion, the schoolaims to rally the support of the Armenian com-munity of the Greater Boston area and beyond tomark this milestone in its history.Principal Houry Boyamian, who has been

leading the school for the past 31 years,announced that the evening’s proceeds will ben-efit the school’s Financial Aid Program, withthe goal of offering the opportunities of a rig-orous American education coupled with astrong Armenian foundation to as many stu-dents as possible now and in the future.Event Chair Nicole Babikian Hajjar, whose

three children are graduates of St. Stephen’s,was quoted as saying “we are expecting adiverse constituency to come together in sup-

port, as we highlight the school’s unique role inbuilding identity and community amongGreater Boston’s Armenians.”The evening’s mistress of veremonies, Lisa

Gulesserian, is a preceptor on Armenian lan-guage and culture at Harvard University and anardent promoter of the Armenian language. The keynote address will be delivered by Prof.

Diran Apelian, member of the NationalAcademy of Engineering and the National

Academy of Inventors, and co-founder of theArmenia Project Center in Yerevan. Singer andsongwriter Artur Hakobyan (also known asMister X) will provide the evening’s entertain-ment.The 20-member-strong planning team is hard

at work putting the final touches to the pro-gram and ensuring the success of this mile-stone celebration. Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.mkt/ssaes.

8 S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMUNITY NEWS

DENNIS M.DEVENEY & SONSCemetery Monuments

Specializing inArmenian Designs and Lettering

701 Moody St. Waltham, MA 02543(781) 891-9876 www.NEMonuments.com

GiragosianF U N E R A L H O M E

James “Jack” Giragosian, CPCMark J. Giragosian

Funeral Counselors576 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown, MA 02472, TEL: 617-924—0606

www.giragosianfuneralhome.com

558 MOUNT AUBURN STREETWATERTOWN, MA 02472

Telephone (617) 924-7400

Aram BedrosianFuneral Home, Inc.

Continuous Service By The Bedrosian Family Since 1945MARION BEDROSIAN

PAUL BEDROSIANLARRY BEDROSIAN

CONGRESS, from page 1introduced a framework of legislation that putsfinancial and visa restrictions on US-basedassets of Turkish authorities, sanctions militarytransactions with Turkey and the Turkish ener-gy sector, and prohibits US military assistance.House Foreign Affairs Committee ChairmanEliot Engel (D-NY) and Ranking MemberMichael McCaul (R-TX) introduced H.Res.625 tosanction Turkish officials and banks involved inthe defense sector.“The sanctions we are introducing will hold

Erdogan accountable for this stunning disrup-tion to international security,” stated Engel.“Turkey’s military operation has already

resulted in civilian casualties and threatensglobal security by creating conditions that willenable an ISIS resurgence. It must stop itsincursion immediately,” McCaul said.Republican Conference Chairwoman Liz

Cheney (R-WY) also took the lead to condemnTurkey for its violence in northern Syria withnearly 30 US Representatives in support of leg-islation to sanction Turkey.Cheney is joined by House Minority Leader

Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), House Minority WhipRep. Steve Scalise (R-LA), House ArmedServices Committee Ranking Member MacThornberry (R-TX), Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE), Rep. Jim Banks (R-

IN), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), Rep. RickCrawford (R-AR), Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX),Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Rep. French Hill(R-AR), Rep. Will Hurd (R-TX), Rep. RichardHudson (R-NC), Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), Rep.Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI), Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX), Rep. GuyReschenthaler (R-PA), Rep. Martha Roby (R-AL), Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), Rep. DenverRiggleman (R-VA), Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY),Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH), Rep. Mark Walker (R-NC), Rep. Michael Waltz (R-FL), Rep. BradWenstrup (R-OH), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC), andRep. Steve Womack (R-AR).“President Erdogan and his regime must face

serious consequences for mercilessly attacking ourKurdish allies in northern Syria, who incurred thou-sands of casualties in the fight against ISIS andhelped us protect the homeland,” said Cheney.“The international community should not

stand by and watch as Turkey once again sub-jects ethnic and religious minorities in Syria tohorrific atrocities. It is our legacy to protectthose whose lives are at risk and our responsi-bility to prevent atrocities from being commit-ted. We urge Congress to take immediate actionagainst Turkey and to swiftly adopt bipartisan,bicameral legislation,” Armenian Assembly ofAmerica Co-Chairs Anthony Barsamian and VanKrikorian stated.

Congress Condemns Turkish Invasion of Syria

St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School Celebrates 35th Anniversary with Gala

Houry Boyamian

Lisa Gulesserian Mister X

Diran Apelian Nicole Hajjar

9S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMUNITY NEWS

Sts. Sahag and Mesrob ChurchProvidence, RI

Food Fairand

BazaarNovember 2 and 3

DOCUMENTARY, from page 1For her, Apcar was first only her great-grand-

mother. Slowly, she said, she kept hearingabout her stories and sought to look deeper.“The more I investigated, the more awestruck Ibecame,” she said.Her lifetime coincided with several major

events, including the continued annihilation ofthe Armenians in the Ottoman Empire and alsothe creation of the Republic of Armenia and itssubsequent dissolution, and finally the creationof the Soviet Union.In 1917, Japan had no refugee policy.

Through her, the Armenian Genocide survivorswere provided access to Japan even thoughthey had no passports or proper documents.“Hundreds, even thousands of lives were” savedthrough the efforts of Apcar, Malayan said.“Diana rented houses to shelter the refugees,”she said, adding, “She helped with visas andship passage for them before, during and afterthe First Republic.”For her efforts she received the nickname

“Little Mother of a Nation.”

No Ordinary Woman

Apcar was born in India. She met and mar-ried her husband, Michael, a businessman,and the two moved from Calcutta to Japan in1891.It was around this time, the consul explained,

that Japan had started accepting, and even wel-coming foreigners and used their help to tran-sition the economy out of feudalism. “Mr. Apcarfound his opportunity and moved to Yokohamaand Kobe,” the most important open ports, hesaid.During the brief existence of the First

Republic of Armenia, 1918-1920, Apcar wastapped to be that country’s honorary ambas-sador in Japan.Malayan explained that her non-stop work on

behalf of her people halfway across the worldnever ceased.“I believe Diana deserves the title of ambas-

sador,” she said. And the audience agreed.The emotional Malayan got choked up while

thanking the audience. The film, in a striking Japanese-style black-

and-white animation interspersed with inter-views, photos and letters, detailed Apcar’s lifeas a woman, activist, author and person of faith,showed her multifaceted personality. (For moredetails on the film see https://mirrorspecta-tor.com/2019/06/06/great-granddaughter-wants-to-give-diana-apcar-her-due/)She was a widow at a young age, with three

children and a family business that her hus-band had failed to safeguard. She workedhard to set right the business, all the whilegetting news from Western Armenia, wherethe Ottoman forces had started their policy

of extermination, first inAdana and later acrossthe entire empire. Shewrote endless lettersabout the situation, try-ing to add her voice tothe highest levels of polit-ical circles around theworld. After the catastro-phe, she did what camenaturally to her, helpingthose who had madetheir way to Russia totake a ship to Japan andfrom there, after all thepaperwork was complet-ed, to buy passage to theUS.Among the people inter-

viewed in the documen-tary were descendants of

those who had been helped by Apcar, the cur-rent ambassador of Armenia to Japan, GrantPogosyan, as well as several scholars.The event was a collaboration between the

Armenian Cultural Foundation, Amaras ArAlliance, Arlington International Film Festival,Armenian International Women’s Association,Armenian Museum of America, ArmenianWomen’s Welfare Association, NationalAssociation for Armenian Studies andResearch, Project Save Armenian PhotographArchives and the Tekeyan cultural Associationof Greater Boston. A major contribution wasmade by the Charles Mosesian FamilyFoundation toward the program.A reception followed the film.“The Stateless Diplomat” has garnered the

Audience Choice for Best Documentary andHonorable Mention for Best DocumentaryFeature at the at the 2018 Pomegranate FilmFestival.For more information about Apcar or the

film, visit www.dianaapcar.org.Japan Consul General in Boston Setsuo Ohmori(Aram Arkun Photo)

Diana Apcar Documentary Sheds Light on Tireless Heroine

Project SAVE Executive Director Tsoleen Sarian (Aram Arkun Photo)

Filmmaker Mimi Malayan (Aram Arkun Photo)

10 S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMUNITY NEWS

By Aram Arkun Mirror-Spectator Staff

NEW YORK — At the annual ArmenianTeachers Symposium of the Eastern Diocese ofthe Armenian Church of America on September7, various presentations and workshops wereorganized by the Diocesan Armenian Studiesdepartment, headed by Gilda Kupelian, to aid inthe professional development of the 45Armenian school educators present (seehttps://armenianchurch.us/2019/09/10/a-symposium-for-armenian-school-teachers/). At this symposium, Fr. Davit Karamyan put

forward some proposals concerning the futuredirection of Diocesan involvement in Armenianlanguage instruction which could lead to radi-cal changes in the role of the Diocese. He sug-gested that the work thus far had not led tomuch success and instead he suggested the cre-ation ultimately of a joint entity including theDiocese, Prelacy and Armenian GeneralBenevolent Union, with the support of theEducation Ministry of the Republic of Armenia.Karamyan urged the educators to reexamine

their views, declaring in Armenian (all transla-tion below is that of the author), “I feel that we,as teachers or educators, are not ready to lookreality in the eyes. We know that speakingArmenian, Armenian culture, is very sensitivefor all Armenians, especially for thoseArmenians who speak Armenian. All of us hereare those kinds of Armenians. But being realis-tic, I think, is a good thing for our future. Weare a little bit in the clouds, and when we fallfrom the clouds, we hurt a little. They call thata nose dive, no? Perhaps our nose touches theground and blood comes out…Are we ready forthat, do we have the courage for it?”He asked what the goal of the Armenian

schools are under the present circumstances.Karamyan said that in his nearly ten years ofexperience working with youth, at each sev-enth-grade graduating event he has witnessed,only two or three children out of fifty could puttogether two decent sentences in Armenian,and these are children from Armenian-speakingfamilies. Their speeches are practically the repli-cation of the words of the previous class, withonly the names changed, and are read fromtransliterated notes, written in English letters.Consequently, their teachers, he said, are“defeated” teachers who cannot have any satis-faction in success. He continued, “So, I think the time has comefor us, as a collectivity of teachers, to look atthe reality and take realistic decisions.” He saidthat the Armenian Church at present “does nothave sufficient ability to secure the right pro-gram and the best trained teachers.”Karamyan said that as a priest, he recognized

that the language issue was “the burden of cen-turies” on the church and added his personalpoint of view. He said that he does work to keephis people Armenian. However, he said, “I dothis naturally because I am Armenian and my

people are Armenian, but I have taken an oathto be responsible for the souls of the Armenianpeople in front of God. Now, when I add to myresponsibilities, I deviate a little from my trueresponsibilities, or at least I am not able to domy responsibility fully. We as a people havebecome accustomed to this system. It has cometo us over the centuries. But now we have state-hood. Why do we not value that statehood?Why do we not allow the Education Ministry [of

the Republic of Armenia] to truly educate? Whydo we not let the Armenian Church truly takecare of the Armenian soul and not be occupiedwith Armenian schools. This is the perfect pic-ture, which I dream and pray truly that we willhave. However, since we do not have it, theArmenian Church is the responsible one for allthese things, it must try to use its strength inthe best way, which is you. Again, this is not aperfect picture, when a child who has graduat-ed the seventh grade must read his final wordsin Armenian written in English letters. This isthe picture practically everywhere.”He later in the question and answer session

clarified that all this did not mean that theArmenian Saturday schools of the Diocese willbe closed soon. While there was some discus-sion that the results of the Armenian Studiesdepartment were not sufficient, he said thatother formats were being looked at, and added,

“But it is very clear that you cannot changesomething without having something else in itsplace.” He proposed that if the Diocese could, “with

the participation and perhaps the sponsorshipof the Education Ministry of the government ofArmenia, create a body here, with the represen-tation of the two dioceses [the same word isused in Armenian, referring in this case to thePrelacy and the Diocese], with the participation

of the Parekordzagan [Armenian GeneralBenevolent Union], … the textbooks will be pre-pared or printed in Armenia, experts will go toArmenia, be prepared and return. It will turninto a pan-Armenian thing, a perfect thing.” Atleast some of the Saturday school Armenianlanguage teachers will also be part of this body,and representatives of Armenian daily schools,he said.This is the ultimate goal. “Today, we cannot

do that,” he pointed out, but the departmentcould be restructured with the help of its head,Gilda Kupelian, stating “this means relooking abit at the goals, and in accordance with this,also reexamination and repreparation of themeans.” Fr. Karamyan exhorted the teachers to not

fear change, saying, “You should not accept thechanges as so painful. Those changes will come.But what will those changes be, the end of the

Armenian language on foreign shores, or willwe be able to keep certain things?” Hopefully,the latter. The teachers in the discussion that followed

raised a number of points, including the follow-ing. Some suggested it was not possible to sep-arate religion and language and that theDiocesan Saturday schools were importantbecause they taught about Armenian identity,while others said the two were already separat-

ed. Several said the schools were a means toconnect with students and some might notcome to the Armenian Church without it. It waspointed out that the schools did not receive anyaid financially from the Diocese and the onlysupport they had was the permission to userooms in their local churches. One personexclaimed that there was a profound lack ofconfidence in Armenian political and religiousleadership in general historically and at the pre-sent. For context on the way the new Primate

Bishop Findikyan is considering refocusing themission of the Armenian Church, seehttps://mirrorspectator.com/2018/06/14/new-eastern-diocesan-primate-listening-and-learn-ing-considering-reprioritization/ andhttps://mirrorspectator.com/2019/05/16/pri-mate-findikyan-refocuses-direction-of-eastern-diocese-assembly-covers-wide-ranging-issues/ .

Participants in the teachers’ symposium at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral in New York

Diocese Symposium Explores New ApproachesTo Armenian Language in East Coast

By Lalig Musserian

JAMAICA PLAIN, Mass. — The ArmenianWomen’s Welfare Association, Inc. (AWWA)recently announced plans for their annualThanks-for-Giving Luncheon, which will takeplace on Saturday, November 9, from 12 to 4p.m., at the Belmont Country Club in Belmont.The luncheon will provide an opportunity forattendees to hear from the new Chief ExecutiveOfficer of the AWWA, Stewart Goff, and raisemoney for AWWA’s primary initiatives: theArmenian Nursing and Rehabilitation Center,Inc., in Jamaica Plain, and the Hanganak ElderClinic in Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh. Inaddition, AWWA recently established theAWWA Founders Humanitarian Award, to beconferred upon an individual or organization inrecognition of outstanding humanitarian visionand dedication to helping improve the welfareof Armenians less fortunate. The luncheon willalso serve to honor its first recipient of theAWWA Founders Humanitarian Award. AWWA announces that its inaugural AWWA

Founders Humanitarian Award will recognizeDr. Carolann S. Najarian for her unfailing devo-tion and commitment to numerous humanitari-an causes throughout a lifetime of dedicated ser-vice. In particular, Najarian was instrumental in

helping AWWA recognize the vision of helpingelders in Nagorno-Karabakh, which led toAWWA sponsoring the Hanganak Elder Clinic(Hanganak) in Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakhin 2004. For more than 15 years, Hanganak hasbeen providing medical care, food, and socialsupport, including spiritual and communityactivities, to elderly women and men living alonein Stepanakert, who have no other means ofsupport. These elders have been profoundlyaffected by conflicts in this region, most havinglost family members. Since 2014, Hanganak hasexpanded their services by providing fuel assis-tance to Hanganak beneficiaries. ThroughAWWA’s sponsorship, Hanganak serves morethan 200 elderly beneficiaries each year.In addition to Hanganak, AWWA sponsors

the Armenian Nursing and RehabilitationCenter (ANRC), an 83-bed nursing facility locat-ed in Jamaica Plain, which serves both elderlyArmenians and non-Armenians alike by care forresidents requiring short-term rehabilitation, aswell as long-term care. The ANRC has a five-starrating from the Centers for Medicare and

Medicaid Services (CMS), placing the ANRC inthe top 10 percent of skilled nursing facilitieswithin the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Najarian, a native New Yorker, spent the

major part of her medical career in private prac-tice in Cambridge and Watertown. In 1988,after the great earthquake that destroyed mostof northern Armenia, she spearheaded a med-ical relief effort to that country through theNGO she established, the Armenian HealthAlliance, Inc. Over the course of more than 50trips to the region, she delivered millions of dol-lars’ worth of medicine and medical supplies tothe destroyed region, established the PrimaryCare Center of Gyumri (providing care to needyresidents and training to physicians) and theArpen Center for Expectant Women, inNagorno-Karabakh (providing food and vita-mins to pregnant women). She most recentlywas awarded the Vachakan Barepasht medalfrom Artsakh President Bako Sahakyan in Aprilof this year, which acknowledges her distin-guished service in Artsakh, both during andafter the war.Najarian earned her medical degree from the

Boston University School of Medicine. She alsoholds a BA in music from Queens College, NewYork. She wrote her book, A Call From Home:Armenia and Karabagh, My Journal (ArpenPress, 1999) based on her journals, chroniclingher experiences and the people she met overthe first 8 years of her work after the earth-quake and the break-up of the Soviet Union.Among the awards and honors Najarian has

received are The Ellis Island Medal of Honor in1999; Boston University School of MedicineAlumni Association Humanitarian Award in2004; and Armenian Bone Marrow DonorRegistry Charitable Trust Woman of the YearAward in 2003.Advance purchase of tickets is required and

seating is limited. Tickets may be purchasedonline at http://www.awwa.us and scrolling tothe “Register for the AWWA Annual Luncheon”link or by contacting Stephanie Ciccolo at scic-colo@armenian-nursing.com.

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Now for some good news: Young Eric Allahverdov, 1, likes to read theArmenian Mirror-Spectator back to front. He considers himself luckythat his grandfather, Andrey Allakhverdov, is a subscriber.

Dr. Carolann Najarian

AWWA Luncheon to Take Place at BelmontCountry Club on November 9

12

Lilit HovhannisyanWows BostonAudienceWINCHESTER, Mass. — She got the audience

on their feet and she brought the house down.On September 27, pop singer LilitHovhannisyan took her unique stage show andpop stylings from Yerevan to Boston. As part ofher 75-city world tour, Hovhannisyan, her bandand dancers made her East Coast debut to a raptaudience at Winchester High School’s auditori-um. Hovhannisyan is a self-made global rising star.

Joining her for several numbers were local chil-dren from Zangakner Ensemble, led by HasmikKonjoyan, who made a special trip from LosAngeles for the event, and the Erebouni DanceEnsemble, led by Arman Mnatsakanyan. Sheopened with the funky Te Aghjik Lineir. She wasquick to lay down the rules, saying: “I want youto sing and dance with me.” She then launchedinto Mayrik, a prayer song, written by her jazzpianist husband Vahram Petrosyan and dedicat-ed to her mother. Rounding out the show, sheperformed her classic tracks, Piti Gnank,Acapella, De El Mi, Gnchu, and Im Ser Atum Em

Kez in between sprinkling messages of affirma-tion and telling stories connected to her songs. What the fans came to see was this young pop

singer who is humble yet charismatic. She hasn’tlost her human touch, and, most importantly, hasa very powerful voice and puts on a spectacularshow and in turn they responded enthusiastically,dancing and singing in the aisles.“This event was a fundraiser for the Erebuni

Armenian School. We took a risk because thiswas a completely different type of concert and weweren’t sure how the audience would accept it.But I am glad we did it because we received anoverwhelming positive feedback from the atten-dees and beyond, even from those who couldn’tmake it but heard about it. We thank Lilit forengaging the audience and connecting with theguests,” said Armine Manukyan, the principal ofErebuni Armenian School.

T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O RS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9

Arts & Living

LavashTrio Launch Modern Cookbook on

Ancient CuisineLOS ANGELES — If you take the best features of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine

— fresh produce, lively flavors, approachable dishes — and swirl them with the finesttraditions of central Europe and Russia, you have Armenian cuisine. Think skew-ered, grilled meats; a table laden with delicious salads and stuffed vegetables; a vari-ety of soups and porridges; and thin, chewy lavash bread to wrap or scoop up everydrop.A new book, Lavash: The Bread that Launched 1,000 Meals, Plus Salads, Stews,

and Other Recipes From Armenia, part cookbook and part travelogue, hopes totake readers to unexplored destinations.The book will be out on October 29. It is by Kate Leahy, John Lee and Ara Zada,

with Lee also responsible for the photographs.Armenia is a land of kind people, tantalizing foods, strong spirits, and fascinat-

ing history. Many centuries ago, it is where trade paths merged, bringing togetherflavors from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It’s where entire villages ventureinto the fields and hills to gather wild herbs; local lavash bakeries are social hubs,and every home has a stash of pickled vegetables.With growing interest in fermentation and the medical benefits of a

Mediterranean diet, Armenian food offers a new take on healthful deliciousness. More than 60 recipes — arranged by course — cover authentic breads and every-

thing you eat with them. Lavash features the many flatbreads of Armenia — lavash(a UNESCO-heritage bread), herb-stuffed jingalov hats, focaccia-like matnakash, andothers — and provides techniques to make them easy to prepare in your homekitchen. It also explores stuffed vegetables, salads, soups, pickles, sweets, and mealsfor feasting.For both armchair travelers and home cooks, Lavash is a book as enticing in the

reading as its recipes are to the palate. There is no finer way to understand a cul-ture than to taste its foods. Lavash takes you through the gorgeous Armenian land-scape, its proud and tragic history, and the hope of the now.Kate Leahy has written or edited more than nine books on food and wine, includ-

ing A16 Food + Wine, an IACP Cookbook of the Year and winner of the Julia Childbest first book award. Prior to writing, she spent five years cooking on the line atJames Beard award-winning restaurants in California and Boston. Years before join-ing forces with John Lee and Ara Zada to write Lavash, she did a deep dive intoArmenian-American foodways for a research paper published in Explorations, aUniversity of California at Davis academic journal. Kate lives in San Francisco. John Lee is an award-winning photojournalist working primarily in gastronomy

and portraiture. He was a staff photographer for the Chicago Tribune from 1996to 2005, covering presidential campaigns, the rise of China, civil unrest in Haiti,

see LAVASH, page 13

Exhibition at CSUN To Feature AmericanHumanitarianism And YMCA PhilanthropyIn ArmeniaNORTHRIDGE, Calif. — The Armenian

National Institute (ANI) and the ArmenianAssembly of America (Assembly) are partneringwith the California State University Northridge(CSUN) Armenian Studies Program, CSUN’sWest Gallery, the CSUN Office of Governmentand Community Relations, the CSUNArmenian Student Association, and the YMCAof Metropolitan Los Angeles to present an exhi-bition titled “The Lifesavers: AmericanHumanitarianism and YMCA Philanthropy inArmenia 1918-1920,” premiering in theWestern United States on Saturday, October 26from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at CSUN’s on-cam-pus West Gallery.The exhibit showcases the role of the YMCA

and American relief work during the firstrepublic of Armenia (1918-1920), and focuseson John Elder and James O. Arroll, who arrivedin Yerevan in January 1918 to open a YMCAcenter. Neither Elder nor Arroll had anticipatedbeing stranded as the only Americans left inthe country’s capital city with all communica-tion to the outside world cut off when the frontline faltered. World War I was still raging at thetime and Allied forces were in retreat on theCaucasian front. The November 11, 1918Armistice that ended World War I was manymonths away. By the time they left Yerevan inAugust 1919, Elder and Arroll had becomeresponsible for the entire humanitarian opera-tion set up by U.S.-based charities, which ulti-mately earned them special tribute from U.S.President Herbert Hoover.The opening program for the exhibit starts at

3 p.m. on Saturday, October 26, and is free andopen to the public.The program will feature ANI Director Dr.

Rouben Adalian, who researched and createdthe exhibit. Adalian will provide a briefoverview at 3:15 p.m., explaining the photo-graphic and documentary sources of the exhib-it, as well as the importance of the exceptionalaccomplishments of the two YMCA volunteerswho were recognized by the Armenian govern-ment for saving the lives of tens of thousandsof Armenians in the critical first months of thenewborn Armenian republic. Representatives of the university, area elect-

ed officials, and community leaders will be inattendance joining CSUN Armenian StudiesProgram Director Dr. Vahram Shemmassian,members of the CSUN Armenian StudentAssociation (ASA), and Adalian in launchingthe opening of the exhibit at the West Gallery.The exhibit will remain open for the publicthrough Thursday, November 7.“The Lifesavers: American Humanitarianism

and YMCA Philanthropy in Armenia 1918-1920” exhibition displays 95 images total - 64from John Elder’s photo collection, 8 contem-poraneous records and documents, and 4maps. The exhibit includes the entire set of pho-tographs Elder attributed to his time inArmenia.Several American relief workers are also men-

tioned in the exhibit, including Rev. ErnestYarrow, Gertrude Pearson, F. Tredwell Smith,and Mabel Farrington. Mary Kifer, whose lifewas cut short after leaving the Caucasus,improbably found romance while conductingrelief work in Armenia. Her story parallels AFarewell to Arms before Ernest Hemingwaywrote his WWI-era tragedy.Other American personalities in the region

appearing in the exhibit include the U.S.Consul in Tiflis, F. Willoughby Smith, who sup-ported the efforts of the relief workers; RobertMcDowell, who was at the front when theTurkish forces broke through and invadedAlexandropol/Gyumri; Dr. John H.T. Main,president of Grinnell College in Iowa, who wit-nessed the horrific conditions in Armenia

see EXHIBIT, page 13

Nikol Pashinyan and Serj Tankian (or actors portraying them) at a game show

Lilit Hovhannisyan (fourth from left) andHasmik Konjoyan (third from left) with some ofthe local Boston-area performers and parents

Lilit Hovhannisyan in concert in Winchester

13S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

ARTS & LIVING

LAVASH, from page 12Islamic fundamentalism in Pakistan andIndonesia, and the war in Iraq. He was also partof the team of journalists at the Tribune whowon the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for its profile ofthe chaotic American air traffic system. Sinceleaving the Chicago Tribune in 2005, he hasphotographed more than two dozen cook-books. John is based in San Francisco andSingapore.Ara Zada grew up in an Armenian-Egyptian

household in Southern California. He graduat-ed from Le Cordon Bleu, and worked for JaimeOliver on the television show “FoodRevolution.” He was culinary instructor for theJamie Oliver Food Foundation’s mobile teach-ing kitchen in Los Angeles. He was also a foodstylist for ABC, CBS, NBC, and the FoodNetwork. He has led numerous cooking work-shops, including in Armenia for Tumo Centerfor Creative Technology’s culinary atelier. He iscurrently executive chef at Fresh GourmetCuisine. He is an avid wild game bow hunter.He lives in Los Angeles.The book has received praise from some well-

known names. Marcus Samuelsson, the award-winning chef, restauranteur, and co-owner ofRed Rooster Harlem, has said, “Lavash takesreaders on a colorful culinary journey toArmenia, past and present. From its investiga-tion into the history of that part of the world to

its vivid images and diverse recipes, this bookexplores what Armenian cuisine looks liketoday in a very authentic and beautiful way.” And Serj Tankian, poet, visual artist, activist,

composer, and former lead vocalist for System ofa Down said, “Lavash is an incredibly complete

book of foods from Armenia, part cookbook, partcoffee table photo journal, and part history book.The culinary culture of Armenia is ancient, pro-found, and a doorway to understanding the peo-ple and culture of that country — and this bookand John Lee’s incredible photos truly do justice

to this culinary tradition.”“At last, Armenian food gets its due! Lavash

takes us on a captivating journey throughArmenia, sharing stories of this ancient land’shistory and people, along with the secrets of itsremarkable cuisine. The flatbread recipes aloneare worth the price of the book, but there’s somuch more revealed here — piquant salads,whole-grain porridges, and soothing soups andstews. This eye-opening book belongs on everylibrary shelf and kitchen counter.”The authors are on a tour of the country.The following are a few of the dates:October 24: San Francisco, Noon, 3pm &

7pm, Popup Lunch & Dinner, Noosh - 2001Fillmore St. San Francisco, CAOctober 26: San Francisco, 3pm, Talk &

Book Signing (free event), Omnivore Books onFood, 3885 Cesar Chavez, San FranciscoOctober 29: GLENDALE, 7:30pm, Official

Book Launch: Talk & Book Signing (freeevent), Abril Books, 415 E. Broadway, GlendaleNovember 13: CAMBRIDGE, Mass., 6:30pm,

Conversation & Book Signing, ElmendorfBaking Supplies and Café, 594 Cambridge St.,CambridgeNovember 14: BELMONT, Mass., 7pm, Talk

& Book Signing (free event), Belmont Books,79 Leonard St., BelmontTo see more photos or find out about recipes,

visit www.lavashthebook.com.

Trio Launch Modern Cookbook on Ancient Cuisine

The three Lavash authors (Raffi Youredjian photo)

CSUN Exhibition to Feature American Humanitarianism and YMCA Philanthropy in ArmeniaEXHIBIT, from page 12firsthand on behalf of the American Committee for Relief inthe Near East; missionary Grace Knapp; and John Mott, long-time president of the American YMCA, who, with the encour-agement of his friend President Woodrow Wilson, dispatchedyoung Americans wherever they could lend civilian supportbehind the front to soldiers in combat.John Elder was particularly happy to welcome two

Pennsylvania natives like himself, Pittsburgh businessmanHoward Heinz, and president of the American Bar AssociationWalter George Smith, who traveled to Armenia on behalf ofthe American Relief Administration. Both were members ofprominent families. Smith was married to Elizabeth Drexel,whose uncle, banker and philanthropist Anthony Drexel,founded Drexel University in Philadelphia. Smith became themost vocal American Catholic advocate of the Armenian peo-ple at the time.Ryan Bean, Reference and Outreach Archivist at the YMCA

Archives, who supported the project, remarked: “TheArmenian National Institute has done a fantastic job tellingthis story. It is both tragic and heartbreaking on the one hand,and inspiring and humbling on the other. The timeliness ofthis exhibit is very appropriate, and I believe we could all learna lesson from Elder and Arroll.”In its April 24, 2018 posting on its Facebook page, where

the exhibit can be viewed, the YMCA Archives extended“Congratulations to Dr. Rouben Adalian and the ArmenianNational Institute on the release of the digital exhibit ‘TheCritical Role of the YMCA and American Relief in Armenia aCentury Ago.’ This exhibit both illuminates a tragic humani-tarian disaster as well as highlights the capacity of the human

spirit to persevere and do good in theface of a seemingly hopeless situation.” YMCA Europe, which encompasses 43

countries, also currently highlights theexhibit on its website. YMCA Armeniahas been touring the exhibit across thecountry over the past couple of yearswhere it has been mounted in Yerevan,Stepanakert, Gyumri, and other locali-ties. Vardan Hambardzumyan, who heads

the YMCA inA r m e n i awrote that hewas “absolute-ly grateful toANI for dis-closing so elo-quently the story of the YMCA inthe Republic of Armenia back in1918.”

“I am so honored that theYMCA once again is partneringwith ANI in bringing the remark-able story of its volunteers to theattention of the general public.They have been supporting thisproject from the start. Leadersfrom the Philadelphia area YMCAwho joined the Armenian commu-nity this year on April 24 and heardthe presentation were excited tolearn about this forgotten chapterabout their own organization andtook great pride in welcoming theexhibit. I am looking forward tosharing this story for the first time

with the Los Angeles community,”stated Adalian.Shemmassian, Director of the

CSUN Armenian Studies Program,added: “Dr. Adalian has put togeth-er an impressive and dramaticexhibit that addresses the conse-quences of the Armenian Genocideand the important role Americanhumanitarians played in relievingthe plight of the survivors. As theexhibit makes evident, there wereso many American relief workerswho came to the aid of theArmenians in those tragic timesthat we still don’t have a full pic-ture of their contributions. Theywere the best exemplars ofAmerican philanthropy whose rolein making the world a better place

should be betterknown. I am sureour students andfaculty will bene-fit from the exhib-it and I look for-ward to welcom-ing the widercommunity in vis-iting the exhibit.”

“The CSUNArmenian StudiesProgram was therecent recipient ofa $2.1 millionanonymous gift,and congratula-tions are in order.

The gift is a tribute to the excellence of its program and theleadership of its Director, Dr. Vahram Shemmassian,” statedAssembly Western Region Director Mihran Toumajan. “Weare thrilled to be partnering with such a distinguished pro-gram, which plays a significant pedagogic role at a universi-ty that is educating more Armenian American students thanany other institution in the United States. I would also takethis opportunity to thank James Sweeters, director of theCSUN West Gallery, and his staff for their guidance and sup-port in realizing this valuable exhibit.”“On behalf of ANI and the Assembly, I also extend my

gratitude to CSUN College of Humanities Director ofDevelopment Suren Seropian, CSUN Interim Director ofGovernment and Community Relations Rafael de la Rosa,Mid Valley Family YMCA Executive Director LionnelZaragoza, and CSUN Armenian Student AssociationPresident Michael Barseghian for their leadership, partner-ship, and valued work during the past months,” Toumajanadded.

YMCA members and volunteers in Armenia with Armenian Assembly of America RegionalDirector Arpi Vartanian (third from right), Armenian Minister of Education ArayikHarutyunyan (second from right), and YMCA Armenia Acting Director Khoren Papoyan(far right) at the ANI Exhibit Opening in Yerevan

Children in the government orphanage

James O. Arroll (left) and John Elder (right)

T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O RS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 914

ARTS & LIVING

‘Echoes’ by ArtistJean KazandjianTo Go on ExhibitIn San Diego SAN DIEGO, Calif. — “Echoes,” a retrospective collection of

works by world-renowned artist Jean Kazandjian will be onexhibition and available for acquisition at Meyer Fine Art. Theexhibition opens on Saturday, November 9 and extendsthrough Saturday, December 28. Two in-gallery receptionswith the artist will take place on Saturday, November 9, from5 to 8 p.m. and Sunday, November 10, from noon to 4 p.m.The exhibition will feature 80 pieces of Kazandjian’s works

created between 1991 and 2019. Kazandjian’s work can beseen in venerable fine art collections globally, as well as on thewalls of the San Diego Intercontinental Hotel.Kazandjian was born in Beirut, Lebanon, where he lived

until his early twenties. He was influenced by a wide array ofMediterranean cultures. Of Armenian heritage, he was alsoexposed to French and English as a second and third lan-guage. His family had fled Turkey in 1915 at the onset of the

Armenian genocide; after spending many years in Ethiopia,they settled in Lebanon in 1933. Beirut was a culturally richand sophisticated city and was often referred to as the “Parisof the Middle East” prior to the civil war, which began in 1975.Jean is the third of five children.Kazandjian’s origins and education brought him into con-

tact with three different cultures. His roots are in theArmenian tradition, his high school education introduced himto French culture, while his years spent at university openedhim to the influence of the English-speaking world. These var-ious influences have combined to foster in his work the quali-ties of patience and sensibility, knowledge and wisdom.After his “freshman arts” year in 1960, Kazandjian was

unanimously awarded the first prize for his submission in aspecial competitive exhibition for tapestry, organized by the

Sursock Museum of Beirut in 1962. Spurred on byhis desire to become familiar with the techniquesand the materials peculiar to the cultural world inwhich he had grown up, he embarked on studies indesign. In 1968, he gained a master’s degree fromENSAD in Paris, a well-known publicly fundedschool for applied arts. In the aftermath of thepolitical and social turbulence of 1968 Paris,Kazandjian came to a clearer sense of his capacitiesas an artist. The beginning of his career as a paintercan thus be located in the year 1969. Recognitionof Kazandjian’s talent in the Paris art world wasimmediate.The late 1960s and early 1970s were a period

during which he met painters as remarkable and as

diverse as Giorgio de Chirico, Salvador Dali, LeonardoCremonini, Francis Bacon and Alexander Calder. The effect ofthis exposure to such a diversity of influences and artistic pro-jects was to consolidate his sense of the need to remain faith-ful to the artistic interrogations proper to him. Kazandjian hasexhibited his works in several European countries and also inCanada and the United States.Meyer Fine Art is located at 2400 Kettner Blvd., Suite 104.

“Sequences- Mother and Child II.” Oil on canvas. 46,75x35 inches. Year 1995.Jean Kazandjian

“Woman at her Bath.” Oil and acrylic on panel with screen. 22x37.75 inches. Year 1998.

“Sequences- Seated Woman- Nine Rectangles.” Oil on canvas.36x28.75 inches. Year 2000

15T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O RS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9

ARTS & LIVING

CarlosAntaramianMexico Has Always Had aSmall but StrongArmenian CommunityBy Artsvi BakhchinyanSpecial to the Mirror-Spectator

MEXICO CITY, Mexico — Carlos Antaramián is the onlyMexican Armenian I have met, one of the active members ofa small Armenian community in Mexico, who has beenresearching the history of this community and otherArmenians-related topics. He travels often to Armenia, partic-ipating in different events. In 2015 he took part in the eventsdedicated to the centennial of the Armenian Genocide, andserved as an observer in the elections of Artsakh. At theSpanish Club in Yerevan, he screened the film “Armenians inMexico” by American-Armenian Philip Boyajian, shot in 1957,the only copy of which is in his possession.Below, Antaramian in his own words tells us about himself

and the Armenian community in Mexico:I was born in 1972 in Mexico. My father, Eduardo

Antaramián, was also born in Mexico, and my mother isMexican of Spanish-Indian descent. My paternal grandmother,Victoria, was from Constantinople, and my great-grandfather,Garabed, from Kharberd area or Charsanjak, Hoshe village,near Peri, today called Akpazar, close to Dersim. I have visit-ed there once. My grandfather Garabed was one of theGenocide survivors. The only thing he said was that his moth-er and younger siblings had committed suicide by jumpinginto the river, not surviving the slaughter of other familymembers. My grandfather was rescued by a Kurdish family;then he went in Aleppo, from where he left for Mexico in1923. In 2015 I went down to the river to pay tribute to myancestors who found their end there. By the way, my 6-year-old daughter, knowing where to go, gave me one of her toysand asked me to throw it into the river…I studied international relations at the National University

of Mexico, then social anthropology in Zamora Michoacán. MyPhD thesis was about commemoration of the ArmenianGenocide in different places. To this end, I have studied com-memoration ceremonies in Paris, Montevideo, Buenos Aires,Istanbul, Yerevan, and interviewed various individuals. In mywork I try to illustrate and analyze the similarities and differ-ences between the first commemoration of April 24 (in 1919in Constantinople) to date. For instance, by 1965, for example,our victims were constantly remembered, but no demandswere made.I have also been studying the history of the Armenian pres-

ence in Mexico for many years, collecting written material,photos and videos, and have already shot a small documentaryon the subject. In the Inquisition archives in Mexico, I foundan Armenian document written in 1632 according to whichFrancisco Martin, probably an Armenian, applied to theInquisition for forgiveness of sins. In the same folder there’sand Armenian alphabet, if both documents are linked, this isprobably the oldest document written in Armenian languagein the Americas. In the same archive I also found some docu-ments about Don Pedro de Zarate, an 18th-century Armenianwhose name is well-known in historiography. The 54 archivedocuments mention Armenians living in the Philippines in the18th century (since the Philippines was then a colony of NewSpain, today’s Mexico). From the 19th century, I found a won-derful historical figure, Hagop (Jacobo) Harootian, aboutwhom I am writing a biography. He was from Aleppo and leftfor the US in 1883, served in the US Army until 1889, thencame to Mexico, was a miner, discovered several mines, includ-ing Mexico’s largest gold mine. When the Mexican Revolutionbegan, he helped the revolutionaries, got in touch with theleader of the revolution, Francisco I. Madero (their joint photo

is saved). Later he became a general, served in a dictatorialgovernment, fought against Zapata and Pancho Villa. Whenthe government was defeated, he went into exile, to NewOrleans first, and spent the last years of his life in theDominican Republic.Hagop was a true Armenian, and his big house in a small

town in Zumpango del Río in the Mexican State of Guerrerowas called Casa del Armenio (The home of the Armenian). Itis now the Jacobo Harootian Cultural Center. I am in touchwith General Harootian’s grandson, Ruddy Harootian, who isa tourism journalist in New York.In Mexico our community has always been small; it has

never had infrastructures — churches, schools. Only for sometime have the branches of the Armenian RevolutionaryFederation and the Armenian General Benevolent Union beenin operation. But in the 20th century, we had a number ofinteresting figures that were important to both the communi-ty and the Mexican society in general. To the names I havealready mentioned I will add the names of three prominentwomen - dancer and literary critic Armen Ohanian (SofyaPirbudaghyan), astronomer Paris Pismis de Recilas (MariSukiasyan) and writer Emma Dolujanoff (Dolukhanyan).It is important to note that from the 1940s to the mid-

2000s, Armenians in Mexico were isolated from each other.But when the Azerbaijani embassy erected a monument toHeydar Aliyev in the capital, local Armenians organized andbegan to fight for the demolition of the monument (whichtook place in 2013). Also, for the first time in thirty years,Mexican Armenians commemorated April 24. In 2014 theArmenian government opened an embassy in Mexico, andlocal Armenians finally had a meeting place. Our ambassadorinvited the spiritual leader of the Armenians in Los Angelesto Mexico. On the occasion of the Genocide Centennial, weorganized activities in Mexico and Ensenada, at one of thecountry’s best museums, the Museum of Tolerance, organizedan exhibition dedicated to the Armenian Genocide, as well asa lecture by Romanian-Armenian writer Varujan Vosganian.We also planned a film festival on the Armenian Genocide,which did not take place due to pressure from the TurkishEmbassy on the Mexico’s Foreign Ministry. It is noteworthythat Mexico has such a denial of the Armenian Genocide. Weare also fighting against the Mexican government’s decision toclassify the Khojaly events as genocide. The Azeri ambassador has carried out anti-Armenian pro-

paganda not only among Mexican senators and government

members, but also in the authorities of Colombia, Panama,Honduras, Costa Rica, and has invited state officials of thosecountries to Baku. Thus, Azerbaijan’s caviar diplomacy is try-ing to win over countries where there are no Armenians orArmenian lobby. As a result, Colombia has also recognized theKhojaly events as genocide. This is an important issue that weneed to be aware of and that we must fight against. By the way, I would like to note that in some Central

American countries there are actually scattered Armenians,including in Guatemala, Nicaragua and Cuba. PabloBogossian, a resident of Honduras, has written an articleabout this. With my cousin, I set up a small publishing housein Mexico called Aip Pen Kim. We have published FromPopocatepetl to Ararat on Mexican Armenians (2011), and theother is Spanish translation of Hambardzum Chitjian’s mem-oirs. This is the first book published in Mexico on theArmenian Genocide. We organized a book presentation, andreviews were published in various Mexican magazines. Thus,we are working to make the Armenian Genocide recognizableat both the public and government levels.There are now 2,000-2,500 Armenians living in Mexico.

Probably a thousand people are descendants of Genocide sur-vivors who came in 1923–1928. The remaining thousand areArmenians from other countries, including Armenia, whohave come since 1991. The vast majority of them are peopleof different professions: scientists, architects, musicians,artists. Today there are 10-15 Armenian specialists in theNational University of Mexico - physicists, astronomers, doc-tors. So it is a new Armenian community with a high level ofeducation. This is sad in some ways because these people havenot found a job in Armenia and had to reach Mexico.Sometimes Armenians from other countries are also being set-tled in Mexico. I would like to mention the name of eminentartist Vatche Geuvdjelian, originally from Addis Ababa, wholives in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán. Apart from Mexico City, Armenians also live in Tijuana,

Puebla and Ensenada. One of the descendants of the KhrimyanHayrik’s dynasty use to live there, and owns the Ararat restau-rant in the city. Many Armenians from Armenia work in theAcapulco, Queretaro and Chihuahua Symphony Orchestras.Some years ago, in one of Mexico’s cities, historian EmanuelSarkisyanz, who was a professor at Heidelberg University, a per-son of great intelligence who spoke seven or eight languages,died. He was born in Baku, grew up in Tehran,

see ANTARAMIAN, page 17

Room Available for Rent in RidgefieldN.J. Furnished, very close to NYC TimesSquare, 15 min driving, to single person. $1,200 per month.(As a realtor I can also help people find apartments close to NYC.)Call Nazo. cell: 5514045282.

T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O RS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 916

NOVEMBER 2-3 — ARMENIAFest at St. ApkarArmenian Apostolic Church. Weekend food and cul-tural festival featuring traditional Armenian foods, bever-ages, exhibits, music and dance performances. 8849 E.Cholla St., Scottsdale.

October 26 – West Coast Premiere of ArmenianNational Institute (ANI) Exhibition titled “TheLifesavers: American Humanitarianism and YMCAPhilanthropy in Armenia 1918-1920” at California StateUniversity, Northridge (CSUN) West Gallery (18111Nordhoff St, Northridge, CA 91325). Exhibition openingis on Saturday, October 26 from 3-5pm, and the exhibitwill be available for the public until Thursday, November7. $8 parking at Lot E6.For media inquiries or for groupreservations to schedule a guided tour of the exhibition,please contact: Mihran Toumajanat mihran@aaainc.org or (818) 291-6466.

NOVEMBER 23 — Join the Armenian EyeCare Projectfor its annual Gala celebrating another year of greataccomplishments in Armenia. Held at the beautifulBalboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach, at 6:30pm. Eveningbegins with stunning cocktail reception and silent auc-tion followed by an exquisite five-course dinner, liveArmenian music by the Hosharian Brothers Band, a liveauction and more! Tickets are $450/person if reserved byOct. 10; $500/person after Oct. 10; and $250/person forthose age 35 & under. All proceeds to benefit the AECP’smany sight-saving programs in Armenia. To RSVP or formore information, call 949-933-4069, email info@eye-careproject.com or visit eyecareproject.com/gala

OCTOBER 24 — Book presentation by Adrienne G.Alexanian, editor of her father’s memoir Forced intoGenocide: Memoirs of an Armenian Soldier in theOttoman Turkish Army, University of Connecticut’s Officeof Global Affairs, UConn, Hartford, Hartford TimesBuilding, Room HTB 210 – 10 Prospect Street, Hartford,from 5 to 8 p.m. For information: (860) 486-5184 orzahra.ali@uconn.edu. Book sale/signing during receptionprior to the presentation and after. All proceed from thesale of the books will be donated.

DECEMBER 7 — Saturday, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. TheWomen’s Guild of St. David Armenian Church inBoca Raton, invites all members, spouses & friends totheir Annual Christmas Luncheon & Fashion Show at theWyndham Deerfield Beach Resort, 2019 NE 2nd Street,Deerfield Beach, FL, to enjoy an afternoon of fellowship,delicious food, and exciting fashion provided by MarioPucci, among others. For reservations (deadline Nov.29th) and additional information, please call DianeAzarian (401) 556-3886, Ginny Kyvelos (781) 789-9169,or the church office (561 994-2335.

DECEMBER 13, 14, & 15 — Friday, Saturday, & Sunday- Friday - 6pm to 10pm; Saturday - 9am to 10pm;Sunday - 1pm to 6pm; - St. David Armenian Art & FoodFestival, 2300 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, FL. Join us foran afternoon of delicious homemade Armenian food,fun, fellowship, raffles, and children’s activities while youshop for Christmas gifts at our vendors. For more infor-mation, call the church office at 561-994-2335.Admission is free and there is ample parking on thechurch grounds.

OCTOBER 19 – NOVEMBER 9 — Fall Studio Art ClassesArmenian Museum of America Adele & Haig DerManuelian galleries, 3rd floor, 65 Main Street,Watertown. Young artists will be inspired by objects ondisplay in the galleries to refine their individual artistic tal-ents. Projects such as painting from observation, design-ing Armenian calligraphy, and pottery decoration will bepresented. Members $96. Non-members $120. For moreinfo and to register visit https://www.armenianmuse-um.org/classes, or call Education Coordinator, GarinHabeshian at 617-926-2562, ext. 103.

OCTOBER 18-19 — St. James 72nd Annual Bazaar,Delicious Armenian Food and Pastries. Silent

Auction, Attic Treasures, Booths and Vendors. Raffles,Children’s Activities, and more. Friday and Saturday.Details to follow. St. James Armenian Church – 465 Mt.Auburn St., Watertown. For more information contact617.923.8860 or info@sthagop.com or visitwww.stjameswatertown.org.

OCTOBER 19 — The Armenian Missionary Associationof America (AMAA) 100th Annual Meeting Banuqetcelebrating the Armenian Evangelical Church. WestinHotel, Waltham, 70 Third Ave., Watlham. 6 p.m. recep-tion, 7 p.m. Dinner, $125. RSVP by October 5. Ticketsand sponsorships available online at amaa.org. Checkspayable to the Armenian Missionary Association ofAmeirca, and mail to 31 W. Century Road, Paramus, NJ07652

OCTOBER 19 — The Vosbikians are coming to theMerrimack Valley. The Armenian Friends of Americaproudly present their Annual HYE KEF 5 Dance, featuringThe Vosbikians. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Andover,MA. Tickets Purchased before 9/13/19 will include theGreat Venue, Outstanding Buffet, The Vosbikian Bandand 5 Free Raffle Tickets Adults $75.00 & Students 21 &under $65 Specially priced AFA Rooms available through9/17/19. For Tickets and more information, Contact: LuSirmaian 978-683-9121 or Sharke’ Der Apkarian at 978-808-0598 Visit www.Armenia-FriendsofAmerica.org

OCTOBER 20 — Annual Banquet of Holy TrinityArmenian Church of Greater Boston, Celebrating the58th Anniversary of the Consecration of Holy Trinity andhonoring Bruce Newell as the “Parishioner of the Year,”12:30 p.m., Charles and Nevart Talanian Cultural Hall,145 Brattle Street, Cambridge. Recognition will also begiven to Outgoing Parish Council Members, Edmond J.Danielson, Daniel K. Dorian and Paul Jamgotchian.Dinner Donation is $35 for adults and $15 for Childrenunder 12. Seating by advanced paid reservations only.RSVP requested by October 10; to purchase tickets, logonto www.htaac.org/calendar/event/703/ or call theChurch Office,617.354.0632.

OCTOBER 27 — Sunday Cultural Series: Popular Songsby Armenian Composers Performed by renownedsingers Arthur Ispiryan from Yerevan and Nara fromCalifornia 2-4 pm, Armenian Museum of America Adele& Haig Der Manuelian galleries, 3rd floor, 65 Main Street,Watertown, MA. Please join us at the Armenian Museumas we welcome renowned singers Arthur Ispiryan fromYerevan and Nara from California as they perform popu-lar sons by Armenian composers. Special appearance byAram Satian, the president of the Composer’s Union ofArmenia and Composer Maestro Konstantin Petrosian.This performance is presented by Armenian Museum ofAmerica and the Composer’s Union of Armenia, andsponsored by the Dadourian Foundation. Special appear-ance by Aram Satian, the president of the Composer’sUnion of Armenia and Composer Maestro KonstantinPetrosian. Members free. Non-members free with $15Museum admission.

NOVEMBER 1-2 — St. Stephen’s Armenian ApostolicChurch Bazaar. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Armenian Culturaland Educational Center, Watertown. Chicken, beef andlosh kebab. Kufteh and kheyma dinners. Pastries and spe-cialty gourmet items. Arts and crafts and auction items.

NOVEMBER 1 — 4-7 p.m., Friday, grand opening of theNational Association for Armenian Studies andResearch: Complimentary Light Fare and Entertainment.NAASR, 395 Concord Avenue, Belmont, MA 02478. Joinus as we cut the ribbon symbolizing a new era, celebrat-ing 65 years of achievement while transforming its goalsfor the future to welcome the next generation andlaunch a beautiful, new, state-of-the-art research centerand gathering place. Open to the public free of charge.NOVEMBER 2 — National Association for ArmenianStudies and Research (NAASR) 65th AnniversaryGala. Sold Out. Wait list only. Royal Sonesta Hotel GrandBallroom. 40 Edwin H. Land Boulevard, Cambridge. 6p.m. cocktail reception, 7 p.m. seated dinner.Performance by Isabel Bayrakdarian, accompanied by theBorromeo String Quartet. Distinguished Honoree: Dr.Vartan Gregorian, President, The Carnegie Corporationof New York. Master of Ceremonies: DavidIgnatius, Columnist for the Washington Post and Novelist

NOVEMBER 4 — St James Men’s Club Dinner Meeting- social hour and mezza at 6:15 p.m. and dinner at 7p.m., St. James Armenian Church Charles MosesianCultural and Youth Center - Keljik Hall, 465 Mt. AuburnStreet, Watertown. Guest speaker will be GeorgeAghjayan, Director of the Armenian Historical Archivesand the chair of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation

(ARF) Central Committee of the Eastern United States.Aghjayan’s topic will be “DNA Testing and ReconnectingFamily Ruptured by Genocide.” Mezza and a Losh Kebab& Kheyma Dinner $17/person. Ladies invited. For addi-tional information call the St. James Church office at 617-923-8860 or call Hapet Berberian at 781-367-6598.

NOVEMBER 8 and 9 – Annual Autumnfest Bazaarsponsored by the Armenian Church at Hye Pointe, atour new location 1280 Boston Road, (Rte. 125) Haverhill,Friday 12 – 7 pm and Saturday 12 – 7 pm. Lamb, Losh,Chicken Kebab and Kheyma. Dinners served all day.Pastry table, Armenian cuisine, gift baskets, raffles forcash and prizes. For more info, visit www.hyepointear-menianchurch.org or call (978) 372-9227. Take Rte. 495N to exit 48, bear right at the end of the ramp.

NOVEMBER 9 — Armenian Women’s WelfareAssociation, Annual Luncheon, Saturday, 12 - 4pm,Belmont Country Club, 181 Winter Street, Belmont.

NOVEMBER 9 —An Evening with Fr. VaskenKouzouian: Celebrating 25 Years of Ministry, 6:30p.m., Cocktail Reception; 7:30 p.m., Dinner andCelebration. Samberg Conference Center, MIT, ChangBuilding (E52), Floor 7. 50 Memorial Drive, CambridgeMA 02142. Donation: $100 per person. Seating byadvance paid reservation only, by November 1. Reserveonline at https://aneveningwithfrvasken.eventbrite.comor through the Church Office, 617-354.0632..

NOVEMBER 16 — St. Stephen’s Armenian ElementarySchool 35th Anniversary Celebration. Keynote speak-er: Dr. Diran Apelian, Professor of Engineering & FormerProvost, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, DistinguishedProfessor, UC Irvine. Entertainment: singer ArturHakobyan (Mister X). Emcee: Lisa Gulesserian, Ph.D.,Harvard’s Preceptor on Armenian Language & Culture.@The Westin Hotel Waltham-Boston. 6:30pm Cocktails /7:30pm Dinner and program. More to follow…

DECEMBER 1 — A cappella Christmas Concert byBoston Jazz Voices to Benefit the Armenia TreeProject. 5 p.m. at the Jenks Center, 109 Skillings Road,Winchester. The venue has plenty of free parking. Eventwill feature an a cappella performance, refreshments, raf-fle, and silent auction. Tickets are $30 each and a familyfour-pack of tickets is available for $100. Tickets availablevia Eventbrite at www.armeniatree.org/acappella

DECEMBER 6 and 7 — Friday and Saturday, TrinityChristmas Bazaar, Friday, 12 noon-9 p.m., Saturday,10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Holy Trinity Armenian Church of GreaterBoston, 145 Brattle Street, Cambridge. For further infor-mation, contact the Church Office, 617.354.0632.

DECEMBER 15 — Christmas Holiday Concert – ErevanChoral Society and Orchestra, 3:00 p.m., ChurchSanctuary, Holy Trinity Armenian Church of GreaterBoston, 145 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA. Save thedate; details to follow. For further information, call theChurch Office, 617.354.0632, or email office@htaac.org.

OCTOBER 26 — Kef Time Keghi IV 6:30 p.m. Saturday, atSt John Armenian Cultural Hall, Southfield, headlinedwith Traditional Keghetzi Pagharch feast, full buffet dinnerwith dancing, music by the Keghi All-Star Armenian Band.Reservations call Laura Negosian Lucassian at 248-376-3794 or email at Llucassian@TBEonline.org. Donation:Adults $45, Children under 17, $20. Cash Bar. Mail checksto Karen Nigosian, 21919 Michigan Ave, Dearborn. MI48124 Checks payable to Nor Keghi Association. Proceedsto support continuing renovations at public schools andcommunity projects in Nor Keghi, Armenia. Supported byparishioners of the four Armenian churches in GreaterDetroit.

NOVEMBER 16 — The Knights of Vartan, Nareg-Shavarshan Lodge #6 and the Daughters of Vartan,Zabelle Otyag #12 will celebrate their respective 100thand 70th organization anniversaries. Featuring: KevorkArtinian and his All Star Band at St. Mary’s Cultural Hall,18100 Merriman Rd, Livonia. This is a fundraiserDinner/Kef Dance to celebrate Knights and Daughters aswell as a chance for future members to observe how ourcommunity puts our heritage on display. All proceeds tofund renovation of school gymnasium, Knights of Vartan#106, Elementary School, Yerevan, Armenia. ForReservations Contact: Laura Lucassian, (248) 376-3794,Cost $75 per person, $40 after 9:30 pm

continued on next page

CC AA L E N D A RL E N D A RMASSACHUSETTSARIZONA

FLORIDA

MASSACHUSETTS

CALIFORNIA

CONNECTICUT

MICHIGAN

ARTS & LIVING

17T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O RS A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9

ARTS & LIVING

OCTOBER 25 — Banquet Honoring Dr. Taner AkcamAbajian Hall St. Leon complex Fair Lawn, NJSponsored by Knights & Daughters of Vartan- Under theAuspices of His Grace Bishop Daniel Findikyan, Primate.For Reservations please call Sona Manuelian 551-427-8763. $125 p.p. early reservations recommended.

NOVEMBER 15 – Book presentation by Adrienne G.Alexanian, editor of her father’s memoir Forced intoGenocide: Memoirs of an Armenian Soldier in theOttoman Turkish Army - Fordham University ArmenianSociety, Fordham University, 113 West 60th St. N.Y., N.Y.10023 – Room 602 – 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. For information– Takoosh@aol.com Book sales/signing following thepresentation. All proceeds from the sale of the books willbe donated to St. Nersess Armenian Seminary.

OCTOBER 20 — The Cultural Committee of Sts. Sahag andMesrob Armenian Church, Providence Presents Meet WithThe Doctors - Questions & Answers. We invite everyone toavail themselves of this opportunity and “Meet with ourArmenian Doctors” Dr. Herman Ayvazyan Internal Medicine.Topic: New Trends in Primary Care Medicine. Ara Boghigian,Moderator. Sunday, 12:30 p.m., Hanoian Hall, 70 JeffersonSt., Providence.

OCTOBER 25 — The Cultural Committee of the Sts.Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Church, ProvidencePresents “Armenian Café Night” with performances byrenowned singers Arthur Ispirian (Yerevan), Nara(California) Special appearance by composer AramSatian, President of the Composers Union of ArmeniaSumptuous appetizers, wine, pastry and coffee will beserved at 7:30 p.m. Egavian Cultural Center, 70 JeffersonStreet, Providence. Tickets: $35 per person. By reserva-tion only. Reservations for tables of 8 can be confirmed

upon receipt of payment.Reservation deadline: October20. Tickets will not be sold at the door. For reservations:Call Ann Ayrassian at 401-529-5210. Payments accepted:Check only. Checks are payable to “Cultural Committee”and should be mailed to Ann Ayrasyan at 234 GentianAve, Providence, RI, 02908

NOVEMBER 2-3 — Sts. Sahag and Mesrob ArmenianChurch 89th Annual Food Fair and Bazaar. 70Jefferson St., Providence. Saturday, 11:30 a.m.- 10 p.m.-Sunday, Noon – 6 p.m. Daily Raffle & Silent Auction, Kidsactivities, Balloon man. Armenian Food Market andArmenian Vendor gift shop. Shish Kebab, Losh Kebab,Kufta, Kheyma, Yalanchi, Armenian Pastries, Lahmajoon& many other delicious food available. All are welcome.Handicap accessible. Cash, Check, Visa and MastercardAccepted. For further information, call church office 401-272-7712. www.ArmenianFoodFairRI.com

NOVEMBER 17 — Armenian Historical Association ofRhode Island presents Ruth Thomasian, Founder andPresident of Project Save Armenian Photograph Archives,Inc. Program titled “A Look at Ourselves: Armeniansthrough the Camera’s Eye.” Sunday. Refreshments at12:30 pm Lecture 1:00 pm. AHARI located at 245Waterman Street, 5th floor conference room Providence.The AHARI Museum will be open from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.Everyone is invited to bring family photos for Ruth’s “Antiques Road Show” evaluation after the presentation.info@armenianhistorical-ri.org

NEW JERSEY

NEW YORK

RHODE ISLAND

CC AA L E N D A RL E N D A R

INGREDIENTS3 pounds white fish, any kind2 medium yellow onions, sliced or chopped3 medium tomatoes, seeded, chopped or 1 1/2 cups crushedcanned tomatoes, drained2-3 large cloves garlic, minced3-4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley2 tablespoons fresh chopped or dried mint1/4 cup olive oil or 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, to tasteKosher salt and pepper, to taste1 cup water or dry white wineJuice of 1 large lemon and zest of 1 lemonSliced lemon, paprika, chopped parsley

PREPARATIONPreheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9×13 baking

dish or coat with nonstick spray.If fish is frozen, allow enough time for it to thaw, covered, in

the refrigerator. For faster thawing, transfer fish to a resealableplastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change the waterevery 30 minutes to keep it cold. Continue the process untilthawed.Place white fish skin side down in a single layer in a greased

shallow baking pan. Drizzle fish with olive oil or melted but-ter.Spread the tomatoes and onions over the fish, and season

with parsley, mint, salt, pepper, and paprika. Squeeze freshlemon juice over the fish, and add the zest. Pour remainingolive oil or butter over the fish, and add water (or wine) fromthe side of the dish. Garnish with lemon slices, if desired. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender. Check fish at the

minimum baking time to ensure fish does not get overcooked.Insert a fork into the fish and gently twist. The fish is done as soon as it begins to flake. The fish juices will be milky white.Using a long spatula, separate the skin from the fish, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired. Serves 6.

*The is one of the treasured recipes published in the Armenian and Selected Favorite Recipes Cookbook by the Holy Trinity ArmenianApostolic Church Trinity Guild (now Ladies’ Guild) in 1970. The church is located in downtown Fresno, and is registered as a U.S. NationalRegister of Historic Places. The cost is $20.00 each to purchase the cookbook. Include $5.00 for shipping. Please make check payable to:Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church. To order, please call or contact: Nazik Arisian, Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, 2226Ventura St., Fresno, CA 93721

Recipe

Armenian Baked White Fish

by Christine Vartanian Datian

Guest Recipe

Carlos Antaramian:Mexico Has Always Had a Small but StrongArmenian CommunityANTARMIAN, from page 15studied history in Germany and Chicago, and isthe author of English work on Transcaucasianhistory, the Philippines, the Burmese revolu-tion, etc. Today, I can also remember Mexican-Armenian singer-songwriter Sirak Baloyan(whose winery family, by the way, named one ofhis wines Sirak), film actress Rosa GloriaChagoyán, whose ancestors came to Mexico inthe early 19th century, poet Nelly Keoseyán,former rector of the National University ofMexico, José Sarukhán, whose son was former-ly the Mexican ambassador to the UnitedStates Arturo Sarukhan, Avetis Aznavuryan,who was also rector of one of the Mexican uni-versities, etc.With a small group we are now working to

develop photos of Mexican-Armenians’ past,trying to identify the identities of the peopleon photos and publishing a new book on theArmenians of Mexico. We also digitize the film“Armenians in Mexico,” an important docu-mentary in our history.I came to Armenia for the first time in 2003.

At that time, I had my first Armenian lessons.In 2015, as I mentioned at the beginning, Itraveled to Western Armenia. In my grandfa-ther’s birthplace in Hoshe, I filmed interviewswith local Alevi-Kurds. So far we have spokento survivors; we should also start interviewswith Kurds and Turks who also rememberwhat their grandfathers did to Armenians. Bythe way, it is a widespread word among theKurds that when someone gets sad, they tellhim: “Do not to stare on me with thatArmenian look.” Kurds are well aware of thegenocide. When I was in Tunceli and I told aZaza-Kurd that I am an Armenian who cameto find his grandfather’s village, he immedi-ately told me: “Well, I will be your driver, I willserve you for free, because I know what mygrandfather has done to you: I have to wipeout my bad karma”... He has been with me forfour days, helping me in every way.Hambardzum Chitjian’s book has a map ofthat region, which also included my family’s,Antaramyans’ home, so I found my ancestralhome, or rather what was left of it. One Alevi-Kurd said there was probably some land therethat belonged to my grandfather, and if hewanted, he could go to the head of the villageand tell them to return the land to me. Hesaid that everything there — the river, thetrees, the birds — are all Armenian, and wecan go back there. But the question is willthere ever be returnees? Will I go back to thatvery small village myself… I do not know, itreally needs to be thought about…

18 S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMENTARY

Established 1932

An ADL Publication

EDITOR

Alin K. Gregorian

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Aram ArkunART DIRECTOR

Marc Mgrditchian

SENIOR EDITORIAL COLUMNIST:Edmond Y. Azadian

CONTRIBUTORS:Florence Avakian, Dr. HaroutiunArzoumanian, Philippe Raffi Kalfayan,Philip Ketchian, Kevork Keushkerian,Harut Sassounian, Hagop Vartivarian,Naomi Zeytoonian

CORRESPONDENTS:

Armenia - Hagop AvedikianBoston - Nancy KalajianLos Angeles - Taleen BabayanBerlin - Muriel Mirak-Weissbach

Contributing Photographers:Jirair Hovsepian

The Armenian Mirror-Spectator is published weekly, except two weeks in July and the first

week of the year, by:

Baikar Association, Inc.755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-1509

Telephone: 617-924-4420

FAX: 617-924-2887

www.mirrorspectator.com

E-Mail: editor@mirrorspectator.com

For advertising: mirrorads@aol.com

SUBSCRIPTION RATES:

U.S.A. $80 a year

Canada $125 a year

Other Countries $190 a year

© 2014 The Armenian Mirror-Spectator

Periodical Class Postage Paid at Boston, MA

and additional mailing offices.

ISSN 0004-234X

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TheArmenian Mirror-Spectator, 755 Mount AuburnSt., Watertown, MA 02472

Other than the editorial, views and opinionsexpressed in this newspaper do not necessarilyreflect the policies of the publisher.

MirrorSpectator

Established 1932

An ADL Publication

Copying for other than personal use orinternal reference is prohibited withoutexpress permission of the copyrightowner. Address requests for reprints orback issues to:

Baikar Association, Inc.755 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472-

1509

Turkey’s Misadventures in Syria CreatePolitical Turmoil, Tragedy

COMMENTARY

By Edmond Y. Azadian

The Middle East is aflame and the political world is in anuproar over the third Turkish incursion into Syria under thecode name “Peace Spring.” With this current invasion in Syria,President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s avowed intention is to carveout a “peace corridor” 500 kilometers long and 30 kilometersdeep, expelling 40,000 Kurds from that territory and resettling3.6 million Syrian Arab refugees currently living in Turkey.

Erdogan’s audacious plan to occupy a segment of a sovereigncountry’s territory, to slaughter the local Kurdish populationand conduct population engineering was made possible whenthe erratic US president, Donald Trump, arbitrarily ordered thewithdrawal of the US forces from the area, contrary to the rec-ommendations of his advisors and against the objections ofPentagon analysts.

Turkey would not have dared to take that kind of initiativehad the political conditions not been right for the action.

Turkey invaded and occupied 38 percent of the territory ofCyprus in 1974 and no force has been able to dislodge Turkey’soccupation army, nor its creation of a made-up country on thatsoil.

Similarly, Ankara has stationed its forces on Iraqi territory fora variety of reasons and the international community has beenquiet on the issue.

Turkey has established military bases in five countries, whichallows Ankara to act as a superpower.

All these military and political strategies were developed byTurkey by taking advantage of rivalries between the politicalblocs controlling the region.

The West created an artificial divide between the Sunni andShia sects to divert the attention of the Islamic world from theIsraeli-Palestinian conflict; previously, the main concern of the

Arab world had been the treatment of the Palestinians by Israel.The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia fell into this trap, which galva-nized the region.

Ankara claimed the leadership of the Sunni bloc under theNorth Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) banner and licensebut in fact, it has acted on its narrow self-interest. It challengedthe US sanctions against Iran, subverted the interests of theonly regional US ally, Israel, by championing the Palestiniancause, lent its support to the Islamic government of MohamadMorsi in Egypt while the US was fighting the Islamic State (var-iously known as ISIS, ISIL, or Daesh) in the region and to topit all, cozied up to Moscow when the US was trying to curbRussia’s resurgence as a world power. All these digressions weremade possible under the untouchable banner of NATO.

Erdogan thumbed his nose at Washington after realizing thatPresident Trump’s bombastic threats to North Korea and Iran

were nothing more than empty bluster. He further played hishand by concluding the purchase of S-400 missiles from Russia.

Thus, Ankara bought impunity through calculating politicalsteps and today no force in the world has the intention nor thewill to stand in its way as it sets to gobble a piece of territoryfrom Syria, while creating a humanitarian disaster.

President Erdogan reprimanded the European Union whenthe latter condemned Turkish aggression and called it an “inva-sion.” He threatened to open the immigration floodgates and toinundate Europe with a new wave of Syrian immigrants.

One of the major instigators of the original Syrian crisis wasTurkey, which resulted in the creation of millions of refugees.Rather than punishing Turkey for its crimes, Europe rewardedAnkara with generous grants to keep the Syrian refugees inTurkey.

The US was involved in the Syrian crisis to destroy the IslamicState whose resurgence was mainly due to Turkey. After tryingseveral combinations of allies, Washington found the YPGKurdish forces to be the most reliable, as their interests coin-cided. The Kurdish forces were eventually successful in defeat-ing the Islamic State while sacrificing 5,000 of their own people.At the present time, they have imprisoned 12,000 ISIS terroristsand the US is counting on the opposing Turkish and Kurdishforces to keep them in jails when all hell has broken loose andthe Kurds have been hanging on for dear life.

For a long time, President Trump was teasing Ankara, prais-ing the Syrian Kurds as trusted US allies, when Turkey wasthreating to destroy them. The Kurds had also won credibilitythroughout the US political establishment on the strength oftheir power against the Islamic State. And today, that entireestablishment is in turmoil, trying to figure out an exit strategyout of the chaos, after Mr. Trump’s unilateral decision to with-draw the US forces out of the Syrian battleground without astrategy or a rational exit plan.

The world is condemning Mr. Trump’s action. European lead-ers are furious and further, Mr.Trump’s home base is shaken. Notonly is a new realignment takingshape in the Middle East, but alsoanother one is being created athome in the US. The rapproche-ment between House SpeakerNancy Pelosi and Sen. LindsayGraham, an arch hawk and Trumpsupporter, says a lot. Indeed, bothcamps are coming together todraw a bicameral and bipartisanresolution to overturn Mr. Trump’sdecision to throw the Kurds underthe bus.

We have yet to figure out howthis coalition may impact Mr.Trump’s reelection prospects,which have already been under acloud with the Ukrainian scandal.

President Erdogan would nothave taken the initiative had henot consulted with the Kremlinand Washington. Indeed, Mr.Erdogan has confessed thatTurkey has not engaged in any mil-itary action without informingRussian President Vladimir Putin.So far, five European countrieshave called for United Nationsaction and Germany, France andFinland have set up an armsembargo against Turkey, butMoscow’s criticism has been themildest. Mr. Putin has called on allforeign forces to leave Syrian terri-tory and Foreign Minister Sergei

Lavrov has proposed that the crisis must be resolved throughthe principles of the Adana Treaty which Damascus and Ankarahad concluded before the crisis.

Moscow is also contented to see the US forces evacuatingSyrian territory and Kurdish forces, in desperation, returning tothe Syrian-Russian fold to face Turkish aggression.

The Arab League has unanimously condemned the aggressionand is ready to invite back Damascus, which was expelled fromthe league. Saudi Arabia, which was pushed by the US into a los-ing war in Yemen, fearful of Trump’s unpredictability, is lookingfor an accommodation with Iran, the presumed supporters ofthe Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The political world is confused with President Trump’sactions while the President seems even more confused. His

continued on next page

S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

COMMENTARY

19

My TurnBy Harut Sassounian

A Declassified Top Secret CIAReport On the Nagorno-KarabakhConflict

A 48-page Central Intelligence Agency Top Secret Report,prepared in August 1988 and made public in 2012 with somedeletions, is titled “Unrest in the Caucasus and the Challengeof Nationalism.” Despite the passage of time, the Reportincludes an interesting analysis of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) conflict from the perspective of US intelligenceservices.

The CIA analyst, in the introduction of his Report, tracedthe origins of the Artsakh conflict: “Enmity betweenArmenian and Azeri factions has existed for hundreds ofyears, and the 1920s settlement subordinating Nagorno-Karabakh — Armenia’s cultural and religious center — to theAzerbaijan Republic has been a continual, albeit long-muted,source of Armenian frustration and concern. Azeri animositytoward the Armenians has been intensified by political, eco-nomic, and demographic trends that have adversely affectedthe political status of Azeris and increased the gap in livingstandards between Azerbaijan and Armenia. In particular, therapid expansion of Azerbaijan’s young adult population hasput enormous strain on the Republic’s capacity to provideadequate jobs, housing, and education. Azeri frustration hasfound an outlet in attacks on Armenians.”

The unnamed CIA analyst reported that a split within thePolitburo on how to handle the Artsakh crisis made the situ-ation worse. Second Secretary Ligachev and KGB ChiefChebrikov were the hardliners who vehemently opposed theseparation of Artsakh from Azerbaijan. They disagreed withGorbachev’s reforms and blamed foreign powers for incitingunrest inside the Soviet Union.

When two prominent Armenian writers, Silva Kaputikyanand Zori Balayan, met with Gorbachev in Moscow in February1988, they reported that he was well briefed and assuredthem that he wanted a “just solution.” He acknowledged “thepeaceful nature of the [Armenian] demonstrations andemphasized his personal sympathy with the desire to reuniteNagorno-Karabakh with Armenia….”

Upon the return of the Armenian envoys to Yerevan, in aradio broadcast on February 27, 1988, Kaputikyan called forArmenians to trust Gorbachev. “He knows about and under-stands our problem and wants to resolve it personally…. Wemust do our utmost to ensure that no harm” is done to him,Kaputikyan announced.

Regarding Soviet concerns about foreign, particularlyArmenian-American interference in domestic Soviet turmoil,the CIA analyst reported: “The recent unrest appears to havemade Soviet officials more fearful about the role of foreignactors in the Nagorno-Karabakh problem. Of the approxi-mately 5.5 million people in the world today who speakArmenian, about 60 percent live outside the Soviet Armenianrepublic, about 1.4 million elsewhere in the USSR, and 2 mil-lion abroad. So far, Armenian emigres — most of whom seeTurkey much more than Russia as the historic oppressor oftheir nation — have not been actively involved in pushing forchange in the Soviet system or in Soviet policies. Moscowworries that diaspora attitudes could turn sharply critical ofthe USSR and that Armenians in the United States, particu-larly, could grow into a powerful anti-Soviet pressure group.Soviet officials are wary of the large concentration ofArmenians in California and New York, states with large elec-toral votes that have been closely contested in previous pres-idential elections.”

In a footnote at the end of the previous paragraph, the CIAanalyst specified that “the United States hosts at least600,000 Armenians. About 90 percent of America’s SovietArmenian immigrants came to California. Los Angeles — with100,000 — has the largest community of Armenians outsideYerevan. The New York City region has about 70,000Armenians, mostly from Lebanon and Iran.”

The CIA analyst added: “Moscow may be concerned thatforeign Armenian terrorist groups like the Armenian SecretArmy for the Liberation of Armenia (ASALA) could turnagainst Soviet targets — although we have no evidence thatthis is the case. Hitherto, the USSR has figured very little in

ASALA’s blending of armed struggle with Marxist ideology;the dominant faction of ASALA considers Soviet Armenia asliberated territory and the group concentrates its attacksexclusively on Turkish officials. In fact, ASALA eventuallywould like to see ‘the Armenian provinces’ now located inTurkey and possibly Iraq [?] reattach themselves to the SovietArmenian core. Furthermore, ASALA is now in a quiet phase,and its leader was assassinated on 28 April [1988].Nevertheless, ASALA in early April did send a moderatelyworded appeal to Gorbachev supporting the reunification ofKarabakh with Armenia, while characteristically stressingthat Armenia is an integral part of the USSR and seeks onlyto rectify the border, not to pursue claims against Moscow.”

Finally, the CIA analyst explained the position of Turkey onthe Karabakh conflict: “Although the Turkish Governmenthas not explicitly sided with Azerbaijan, Turkey’s fear of resur-gent Armenian nationalism makes Ankara sympathetic toBaku. When the crisis broke in February [1988], TurkishGovernment spokesmen indicated publicly that internationalagreements entitle Ankara to a voice in the crisis, an appar-ent reference to the 1921 treaty between the USSR andTurkey that led to the shift of Nagorno-Karabakh andNakhichevan to Azerbaijan. Turkey no doubt especially fearedthat transferring Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia would whetArmenian appetites and would lead to increased pressure tochange the status of Nakhichevan and to acquire formerArmenian regions in Turkey. Turkish officials probably alsonoted that some Armenian expansionist demands for a‘Greater Armenia’ were based on historic claims rather thanon the ethnic composition of the affected territories. Thus,some Armenians have demanded the return of Nakhichevan,even though Azeris now greatly outnumber Armenians in thisregion. Using such historical criteria, could give Armenians aclaim even on some border parts of Turkey where only 50,000Armenians now live.”

The CIA analyst concluded his Report by outlining fiveoptions the USSR had for the resolution of the Artsakh conflict:

1) “Sticking with the Status Quo”2) “Making Further Economic Concessions” to Armenians3 “Enhancing Autonomy of Nagorno-Karabakh WithinAzerbaijan”4) Expanding “Extraterritorial Native Cultural Institutions”5) “Reconfiguration of Nagorno-Karabakh” by splitting itbetween Armenia and Azerbaijan.

from previous pageincongruent policies were reflected in some Tweets, as he threatened to oblit-erate Turkeys’ economy if the latter goes “off limit.”

But he has yet to figure out where that limit stands.He even blamed the Kurds for not sending troops during the Normandy

invasion in World War II, only to be reminded by historians that the Kurds didnot have a state to be counted on for such support. Then, finally he settled forthe following options. He Tweeted that he had “one of three choices: send inthousands of troops and win militarily, hit Turkey very hard financially ormediate a deal between Turkey and the Kurds.”

Mr. Trump has not settled on any of his options, while the Kurds havechanged sides and joined Syrian government forces to defend Qamishli,against advancing Turkish forces with Moscow’s blessing.

Turkey’s unbridled appetite for invading any neighboring country withimpunity has spread fear in all nations in the region. It is not surprising thatof all the nations the US, at this time, has been engaged in reinforcing secu-rity on Armenia’s borders.

The Armenian government and the public have been concerned withTurkeys’ actions and they have condemned them vehemently. ManyArmenians in Syria are in harm’s way. Compounding those fears are somemysterious political moves, which have accentuated that fear. Mr. Erdogan hasflown to Baku and Azeri President Ilham Aliyev has reached President Putinin Sochi, no one knows to what end.

After all, the current situation is a reenactment of history for the Armenianpeople who were asked during World War I to join the allies in volunteer bat-talions, which they did. They fought valiantly to defeat the Ottoman-Germanforces on Mount Arara on September 19, 1918 and marched victoriously intoCilicia, where home rule was promised them under a French protectorate. TheFrench military command abandoned the Armenians who were unprotectedin front of invading Turkish Kemalist forces. History repeats itself.

Fortunately, the international community has not forgotten the fate that theArmenians experienced. The CBN Middle East Bureau Chief Chris Mitchellreports that the Turkish invasion of Northern Syria is not really a well-inten-tioned attempt to fight terrorists. There is actually a strong element of IslamicJihad at the heart of Turkey’s agenda. “Many of the people that fled theArmenian Genocide 100 years ago fled to this area of Turkey and nowErdogan’s attempt to revive the glory of the Ottoman Empire is targeting theirdescendants.”

At the present time, war is raging in southeast Syria. For Turkey, theKurdish YPG is nothing but an extension of the PKK (the Kurdish Workers’Party) in Syria. The PKK has been waging a war of liberation within Turkey,on behalf of 25 million Kurds. Since 1985, Turkey has razed 3,000 Kurdish vil-lages and murdered 20,000 Kurds. Mr. Erdogan’s intention is to carve out a“peace corridor” but that plan is only illusory. Instead of building a securityzone, Turkey will be expanding its insecurity zone within Syrian territory.

Turkey’s Misadventures in SyriaCreate Political Turmoil, Tragedy

Sorry State Of IstanbulArmenianPatriarchateBy Raffi Bedrosyan

VER SINCE the last Armenian PatriarchMesrob Mutafyan fell ill with dementiabut continued to live in a vegetative statein 2008, the seat of the IstanbulPatriarchate has been vacant. ArchbishopAram Atesyan, who got himself appointedas Acting Patriarch, devised severalarrangements with the help of theTurkish government to delay the election

of a new Patriarch and remained in power for thepast 11 years. Patriarch Mutafyan passed away inMarch 2019 and now no more legal and illegal loop-holes are left to avoid the Patriarchal election.

The Turkish government finally relented to havethe Patriarchal election take place in December2019, but also presented a further obstacle against afair and democratic election process. It imposed acondition that ‘the only eligible candidates wouldhave to be clergy in the employ of the IstanbulArmenian Patriarchate’, thereby eliminating at leastten other potential candidates who could have beeneligible, based on the historically legitimate conditionof eligibility applied in previous Patriarchal elections,which was to be born into an Armenian family fromTurkey. It should be noted that two of the previous-ly elected Istanbul Patriarchs were clergymen born inTurkey but serving the Armenian Church outsideTurkey and not in the Istanbul Patriarchate.

The Electoral Commission of Istanbul Armenians,selected from Istanbul Armenian community leaders,charitable foundation directors and some clergy,assembled to decide whether to object to the Turkishgovernment about the imposed eligibility condition,

but after a very short debate and a few resignationsof objectors, it conveniently decided to comply withthe government condition and proceed to the elec-tion. Therefore, instead of having a healthy debateand new approaches on how to run the Patriarchatewith worthy candidates from inside and outsideIstanbul, the December election will be between twoIstanbul Armenian clergymen, Archbishop Atesyan,the Acting Patriarch until recently, and ArchbishopMashalyan, newly elected as the caretaker clergymanto oversee the election.

Based on their past performances, both menappear to be completely subservient to the Turkishgovernment, convinced that the best and only way toconduct the Patriarchate affairs is to act exactly asthe state demands, without ever rocking the boat.This may perhaps be acceptable as a tactic of sur-vival, but what is even less acceptable is how thesecandidates act as subservient to the IstanbulArmenian charitable foundation leaders. ThePatriarchate has the right to exert moral authorityover the charitable foundations. Instead, the charita-ble foundation leaders, who are supposed to run theaffairs of the Armenian churches, schools and hospi-tals on behalf of the Armenian community, conductthemselves as the head of individual empires, notaccountable to anyone. Some charitable foundationsare quite wealthy as they have substantial revenuesand income from significant real estate holdings,while others are only reliant on individual donationsor fundraising dinners. The “haves” are supposed tohelp the “have-nots,” but this can only be done byhaving a strong and influential Patriarch, arbitratingamong the charitable foundations and distributingthe wealth for the common good of the entire com-munity. But at present, the directors of the wealthyfoundations keep the revenues to themselves andspend it as they see it fit. Although they are supposedto be elected, the Turkish government has notallowed elections for Armenian charitable founda-tions for many years, and these people just rule theirempires, with no accountability. The director of HolyTrinity Church (Surp Yerrortutyun), which overseesnumerous other churches and schools in Pera, kepton ruling for 39 years until he passed away recently,completely wasting the potential of the historicTokatliyan Hotel which his foundations owns, rentingit cheaply to his friends and associates. The directorof the Holy Saviour Hospital (Surp Prgitch), sees

see ISTANBUL, page 20

E

20 S A T U R D A Y, O C T O B E R 1 9 , 2 0 1 9 T H E A R M E N I A N M I R R O R - S P E C TAT O R

ISTANBUL, from page 19himself as the spokesperson of the entireArmenian community and makes irresponsiblestatements to the Turkish media, as he didrecently, saying that students at highly presti-gious Armenian Getronagan School are beingraised as “militants.”

One critical issue that the Patriarchate needsto address but has not done until now is thereality of the hidden Armenians, living in differ-ent regions of Turkey outside Istanbul. TheIslamized hidden Armenians have started toreturn to their Armenian roots in recent years.Against all odds, risks and consequences, theyseek an Armenian identity. At present, theArmenian Patriarchate, or rather the ActingPatriarch, does not recognize them asArmenians until they get baptized and becomeChristian. But the conditions for baptism are soonerous that few hidden Armenians choose togo through with the process. Moreover, the hid-den Armenians are also prevented from beingbaptized elsewhere in Armenia or Europe, aswe experienced during Project Rebirth trips toArmenia with several groups of hiddenArmenians. It is my humble opinion that anyhidden Armenian who wishes to return toArmenian roots, language and culture, has theright to do so, and should not be prevented

from doing so. Religion should be considered asa personal choice that comes later.

Another critical issue that the Patriarchateneeds to address but has ignored at present isthe status of the hundreds of abandonedArmenian churches in the rest of Turkey out-side Istanbul. There were more than 4,000churches and schools left behind in Turkeyafter the 1915 Armenian Genocide. Althoughmost of them have been destroyed, there arestill hundreds intact, either used by the Turkishstate, organizations or individuals for other pur-poses. It is Patriarchate’s right, indeed its duty,to take steps toward the return of these prop-erties to the rightful owner, the Patriarchate.There are also six active Armenian churchesstill open in the rest of Turkey outside Istanbul,in Kayseri, Iskenderun, Hatay, Vakiflikoy, andthe largest of them all, in Diyarbakir, the SurpGiragos Church. The Patriarchate shouldappoint part-time or full-time clergy to thesechurches, even though there may not be a visi-ble Christian Armenian community at present.These churches, and potentially new others,would act as magnets for the hidden Armeniansto have the courage to come out, congregateand support one another.

The two Patriarchal candidates have notuttered a word about any of these critical

issues. In fact, they have only praised them-selves about what they have done in the past,but not shared any of their future plans andprograms, if elected. I think every IstanbulArmenian voter should think about these issuesand demand how the candidates will deal withthem. The Istanbul Patriarchate is not simply achurch administrative center appointing clergy-men or running a few churches for a communi-ty of 60,000 Armenians. There is immenseresponsibility and duty, not only limited toIstanbul but covering the entire country, todeal with remaining historic assets and emerg-ing realities of hidden Armenians. I wouldtherefore, urge the Istanbul Armenian voters toask the following questions to the Patriarchalcandidates:

•What are your plans to take charge of theIstanbul Armenian charitable foundations, andfairly arbitrate among them for the benefit ofthe entire Armenian community?

•What are your plans to accommodate andwelcome the hidden Armenians who wish tojoin the Armenian community and return totheir Armenian roots, including those who wishto convert to Christianity, and those who do notconvert to Christianity?

•What are your plans to start discussionswith the Turkish government, organizations or

individuals toward the return of Armenianchurches and schools previously owned by thePatriarchate?

•What are your plans to appoint clergymenoutside Istanbul in the rest of Turkey in areaswhere there are emerging hidden Armeniancommunities such as Diyarbakir?

If the voters are not aware or interested inthese issues, the candidates will not be inter-ested in these issues, either. Instead of servingthe voters and the Armenian community atlarge, they will serve their “masters,” thewealthy directors of the charitable foundations.Not much will change and the IstanbulArmenian community will continue to be treat-ed as “flock,” not only in the religious sense butalso in the literal sense as “sheep.”

(Raffi Bedrosyan is a civil engineer and con-cert pianist, living in Toronto, Canada. He hasdonated concert and CD proceedings to infras-tructure projects in Armenia and Karabakh, inwhich he has also participated as an engineer.He helped organize the reconstruction of theSurp Giragos Diyarbakir/Dikranagerd Churchand the first Armenian reclaim of church prop-erties in Anatolia after 1915. He gave the firstpiano concert in the Surp Giragos Church since1915.)

Sorry State of Istanbul Armenian Patriarchate

MANBIJ, Syria (Reuters) — Turkey pressed ahead withits offensive in northern Syria on Tuesday, October 15,despite US sanctions and growing calls for it to stop,while Syria’s Russia-backed army moved on the key cityof Manbij that was abandoned by US forces.

Reuters journalists accompanied Syrian governmentforces who entered the center of Manbij, a flashpointwhere US troops had previously conducted joint patrolswith Turkey.

Russian and Syrian flags were flying from a buildingon the city outskirts and from a convoy of military vehi-cles.

Russia’s Interfax news agency, citing Moscow’sDefense Ministry, said later that Syrian forces had takencontrol of an area of more than 1,000 square kilometers(386 miles) around Manbij, including Tabqa military air-field.

President Donald Trump’s unexpected decision towithhold protection from Syria’s Kurds after a phonecall with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan a week agoswiftly upended five years of US policy on Syria.

As well as clearing the way for the Turkish incursion,the US withdrawal gives a free hand to Washington’sadversaries in the world’s deadliest ongoing war, name-ly Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his Russian andIranian allies.

The Syrian army deployments into Kurdish-held terri-tory amount to a victory for Assad and Russia, givingthem a foothold in the biggest remaining swathe ofSyria that had been beyond their grasp through muchof its eight-year-old war.

The United States announced on Sunday it was with-drawing its entire force of 1,000 troops from northernSyria. Its former Kurdish allies immediately forged anew alliance with Assad’s government, inviting the armyinto towns across the breadth of their territory.

A Reuters cameraman on the Turkish frontier report-ed heavy bombardment on Tuesday morning of theSyrian border town of Ras al Ain where an SDFspokesman reported a fierce battle going on.

US military aircraft carried out a “show of force” inSyria after Turkish-backed fighters came in close prox-imity to American forces during the Turkish offensive, aUS official told Reuters.

The official said US military aircraft were flown overthe area after troops in northeastern Syria felt theTurkish-backed fighters were too close. The Turkish-backed fighters dispersed after the show of force, theofficial said.

US Vice President Mike Pence will meet Erdogan onThursday in Ankara, where he will urge Turkey to reachan immediate ceasefire in Syria and to work toward anegotiated settlement.

“Vice President Pence will reiterate PresidentTrump’s commitment to maintain punishing economicsanctions on Turkey until a resolution is reached,” theWhite House said in a statement.

Trump announced a set of sanctions on October 14to punish Ankara, and on Tuesday a senior Trumpadministration official said Washington would threatenmore sanctions to persuade Turkey to reach a ceasefireand halt its offensive.

The measures announced on Monday — mainly a hikein steel tariffs and a pause in trade talks — were lessrobust than financial markets had anticipated, andTrump’s critics derided them as too feeble to have animpact.

The Turkish lira, which had fallen on the expectationof tougher US measures, recovered after the sanctionswere announced, as did its bond and stock markets,with traders noting that Trump had spared Turkishbanks.

Bilateral trade between Turkey and the United Statesis relatively small - around a tenth the size of Turkey’strade with Europe. Washington’s most effective form ofeconomic leverage would be to hinder Turkey’s access toUS financial markets, a step Trump has so far avoided.

In a potentially more damaging blow, German car-maker Volkswagen said it was postponing a final deci-sion on whether to build a 1 billion euro ($1.1 billion)plant in Turkey, citing concern over “current develop-ments” after international condemnation of the incur-sion.

Following Trump’s announcement, the US Treasurysaid on Monday it had sanctioned Turkey’s energy,defense and interior ministers, as well as the ministriesof energy and defense.

Trump has defended his reversal of US policy as partof a plan to extricate the United States from “endless”wars in the Middle East.

But his critics, including senior figures in his ownRepublican Party, cast it as a betrayal of the Kurds, loyalallies who lost thousands of fighters as the principalground forces in Washington’s battle against IslamicState.

The Kurdish YPG militia, the key component of theforces who fought Islamic State, is seen by Ankara as aterrorist group aligned with Kurdish separatist insur-gents in Turkey.

Turkey says it aims to defeat the YPG and create a“safe zone” where millions of Syrian war refugees nowin Turkey could be resettled.

The United Nations says 160,000 people have fledtheir homes as Turkish forces advance. The regionalKurdish administration puts the number of displaced at270,000.

Turkey Pushes Offensive in SyriaDespite Sanctions and Calls to Stop

Norayr Dadourian Speaks about HistoryOf Armenian Poetry

ALTADENA, Calif. — A lecture organized by Tekeyan Cultural Association(TCA) Pasadena-Glendale Chapter on Sunday, October 6, at theBeshgeturian Center Hall, featured Norayr Dadourian and titled “TheArmenian Rebirth (1000-1795).”

On behalf of TCA’s Pasadena-Glendale Chapter, Kevork Keushkerian wel-comed the guests and then introduced the speaker.

Dadourian presented his lec-ture with a slide show thattook a little over one hour, butit was both very interestingand highly informative. The

Armenian Rebirth is the poetic era that starts after Krikor of Nareg (951-1003) and ends before Sayat Nova, who was born in 1712.

It was very interesting to hear that up until Krikor of Nareg, theArmenian poetry was spiritual in nature, composed of prayers and hymns,and addressed to God. After that, Armenian poetry took a major turntowards the secular realm, addressing previously considered taboo themeslike the beauty of nature, enjoying food and drink, and confessions of love.

Slide by slide, Dadourian presented 19 poets, some of whom were reli-gious fathers of the Armenian church and two of whom were females, aphenomenon very strange for that time period. This period of Armenianpoetry started with Krikor Bahlavouni (990-1058) and ended with NaghashHovnatan (1661-1722).Interestingly, Naghashmeans miniature painter.

Poetic dialogue betweenlovers in the Armenianrebirth era, as presented byDadourian, evolved from fig-urative speech, whereexpressions of love wereimplicit to more explicit lan-guage. In the figurativespeech realm, a bird meant amale lover, whereas a rosemeant a female lover. In themore explicit expressionslater, words like bosom,breast, and kissing on the lips were commonly used.

It was interesting to know that Hovhannes Yerznkatsi (1225-1293) wasthe inventor of the quatrains in secular Armenian poetry. Another eyeopening fact that was revealed in the lecture was the use of the triangulardialogue by Nahabed Kouchag, who died in 1592.

At this time, triangular dialogue was introduced, where the manaddressed his lover through an imaginary figure, as direct verbal encounterwas not acceptable yet. Furthermore, Nagash Hovnatan was commissionedto paint the dome of Holy Echmiadzin in 1712.

Dadourian was born in Istanbul, Turkey. He first attended KaraguezianElementary School, and then Mkhitarian Middle and Secondary School. Hewas accepted to the University of Bosporus in Istanbul, where he studiedphilosophy and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

He is married to Never Silahli and have four children. He has been teach-ing Armenian language and literature at the AGBU Vatche and TamarManoukian High School in Pasadena, since its founding in 2006. Everysummer, he takes his 11th grade students to Armenia for an exploratory,educational, and cultural trip.

In tune with the theme of the lecture, Khatchig Nahabedian rendered a beau-tiful song by Sayat Nova. Reception followed the lecture, during which themembers of the audience continued asking informed questions to the lecturer.

Norayr Dadourian

By Kevork Keushkerian