I dedicate this article to nine Armenians. Without their assistance, my odyssey would not have occurred. Their names are Sooren S. Apkarian, Arra Avakian, Nazeli Bagdasarian, Ara Baliozian, Avedis Kaprelian, Robert Khachadourian, Percy Sarkisian, John Tembeckian, and Jirair Yessayan.

Mary’s paternal grandmother, paternal half-brother (baby), and family (April 2, 1940)

Judith Movsisian was born on Sept. 23, 1945, in Washington D.C., at Old Providence Hospital, then placed in the Charity Ward. No contact with Mother was allowed. I was 25 months old when my adoption was finalized at the Montgomery Circuit Court in Rockville, Md. My original birth certificate was sealed permanently. My identity was now Mary Louise Letts, daughter of Lieutenant Commander David D. Letts, U.S. Navy, Washington, D.C., and his wife, Eathel G. McCallum Letts. In 1983, Mom Letts hired a private source to get information about my birth mother.

My determination to seek Mother’s exact location became a daily practice of logging every trail, writing or calling public agencies, my congressman, doctors, ministers of churches in the greater D.C. area, private investigators, genealogists, a U.S. District Court of Washington, D.C., judge, and search organizations. I included a photo of my class from Central Elementary School and myself, plus my home and school phone numbers. I had sent more than 800 penned letters at the conclusion of my odyssey.

Everyone wanted to help me, Mary L. Foess, from a rural, farming community in Vassar, Mich. Children at the three-story brick school knew what their teacher, the sleuthhound, was up to! Some parents of my students, teachers, even our principal, Tom Matuszewski, pitched in.

A package to my newly found brother broke the 41-year-old code of silence: He had an older sister! My Armenian genesis had jump-started. The secrecy vanished. How I found my Armenian uncle, Korean, required persistence. My primal instinct took over; I was unstoppable. I didn’t know then that I was exactly like Mother and Father: fiercely independent. Even the private source that Mom Letts had hired to locate my family told me to slow down. I was euphoric. Uncle was still alive! Dynamite had blasted through all the pretense. Like a cat at a mouse hole, I patiently waited to pounce, to seek what I had wanted badly. Soon this dear man, a lawyer who had pled two cases for the U.S. Supreme Court, would see me.

Mary in Tacoma Park, Md., (June of 1946)

Though my methods were always honest, this process included a touch of charm. The results bore fruit for the next eight years. Our link to each other was an unbreakable DNA-chain that reached back to ancient history: the Euphrates River Valley, possibly 5,000 years! I was Grandmother’s only female descendant who followed Mother. The mitochondrial DNA was already passed on to my three daughters, and soon to be part of three granddaughters, ad infinitum. I wasted no time weaseling a way to get Uncle’s address and phone number. I was about to crash into his “known” family tree like a catapult hurling missiles. I enabled his phone to ring! His attachment to me was just around the corner. I was 32 years younger than he. We located his home in greater Chicago, Ill., on March 30, 1986. My husband, John, and son, Tim, were a part of this adventure.

Uncle had not seen a photo of me and yet recognized me instantly. We were both on uncharted territory. Uncle and I had a similar appearance and demeanor. Clever, smart Uncle was now mine to claim. He knew who I was the moment our huge, dark, brown eyes met in unison. A brief but intense stare ensued for 15 seconds. He said, “Please come in.”

Our assessment of each other could not be avoided. Through his kitchen door we had bonded, within a micro-second. His guests would soon be John, Mary, and Tim. Nervous, I said something to him. He then piped, “That’s what I say in court!” His kitchen countertop Formica was the identical color and pattern as ours, his living room had the same tongue-and-groove wooden ceiling, and his car was the same year, make, and color as ours at home was, but was a sedan, instead of a station wagon.

Uncle got out a box of photos. Gazing at our son, his eyes sparkled, his smile was infectious, and his facial manifestation of rapture filled the entire room. Uncle went over to his living room window to sit across from Tim, his grand-nephew. Bragging about his very first car, my uncle showed our son the picture. Uncle loved our teenager!

Walking back to Uncle’s kitchen door to leave with my husband and Tim, I saw Uncle’s eyes close up. Sadly, he looked directly into my eyes to speak these words, “There’s nothing I can do!” He was referring to my seeing Mother. I looked at him with implied forgiveness.

Mary teaching kindergartners, Flint, Mich. (Spring of 1967)

My determination grew as the calendar kept moving ahead to the next month. My sense was focused on, still, the need to just keep anticipating another move in the making. No one could advise me. Uncle had hinted in an aggressive tone during our second visit that I had a brother. He joked with me, then out of his mouth came a first name in a sentence about his nephew. His move created a stage for me to untangle the web, then discover something hidden. He was leveling the playing field for me! For six months I pursued locating my brother. A lone wolf searcher, I relied on public records. It paid off! Lastly, I contacted a secretary of a large school system who had access to all high school yearbooks. By then, I realized Brother’s full name, finally, after chasing every lead to contact people! A photo—his—came to our mailbox 21 days after The Armenian Weekly, July 3, 1986 edition Letter-to-the-Editor, penned by yours truly, was published. Insane with joy, my body became one with my spirit. I bonded with my handsome Brother, just by seeing his senior photo. I rushed to our telephone to call every friend and adoptive relative I had. By 10 p.m., I called Mom Letts to tell her. Without her, none of this reunification would have happened.

On Dec. 11, 1986, our telephone rang. It was Brother! Six days earlier I had sent a large box full of photos and documents to his residence. My persistent, stubborn refusal to give up had yielded results. The next few months were chocked full of our making calls to each other. I became attached to his children and made three visits to California to see them. In June 1988, I formed an organization, Bonding by Blood, Unlimited, a non-profit that helps people find their biological families. A local television news reporter came to our Central Elementary School in Vassar, Mich., to interview me while my class was working at their desks. My third graders loved every single minute. In 1990, I met my father’s three younger brothers at a nation-wide reunion in Culpeper, Va.

One day while looking at my “based-on-my-book” website, www.ArmenianAncestryBook.com, a man claiming to be my relative e-mailed me on the site’s address! My relative, Aram Mahtesian, 83, had found me! Stumbling onto my site, he had recognized the people in my photos! His miraculous message shook me to the core.

The post How I Found My Brother appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

New York—In honor of United States’ heroic humanitarian efforts to assist survivors of the Armenian Genocide, Near East Foundation Chairman Shant Mardirossian will be presenting the Freedom Award to Mr. Robert Morgenthau and the Morgenthau family, at the 8th Annual ANCA Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) Banquet. The banquet will be held on Sun., Dec. 7, at the Ritz-Carlton Battery Park Hotel in New York City.

Shant Mardirossian will present the Freedom Award to Robert Morgenthau at this year’s ANCA-ER banquet in New York City on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014.

“As we approach the Armenian Genocide centennial, Mardirossian’s participation in honoring the efforts of the Morgenthau family is a tribute to the unprecedented U.S. humanitarian assistance campaign which saved at least one million men, women and children from certain perish,” said ANCA-ER Board Member James Sahagian. “Under Mardirossian’s and the Near East Foundation Board of Directors’ capable leadership, their mission to build more sustainable, prosperous, and inclusive communities in the Middle East and Africa continues to this day.”

Mr. Mardirossian has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Near East Foundation since 2002 and its Chair since 2007. He is a Partner and the Chief Operating Officer of Kohlberg & Company, a middle-market private-equity firm, and serves on the board of directors for several companies controlled by Kohlberg & Co. Mr. Mardirossian was born in Lebanon and immigrated to the United States with his parents in 1969. He received a B.B.A. and an M.B.A. from the Lubin School of Business at Pace University.

At its Annual Gala on Nov. 2, the ANCA Western Region (ANCA-WR) recognized the humanitarian spirit of Near East Foundation leaders Ambassador Henry Morgenthau, Cleveland H. Dodge, and Jackie Coogan, who embarked on one of the greatest international humanitarian efforts launched in the history of the American people. Mardirossian, along with other NEF representatives, joined the ANCA-WR leadership on stage to accept the award with an overflow audience of over 1,000 greeting them with a standing ovation.

“For most, the story of the Near East Relief is largely unknown, but thanks to the ANCA, and the many dedicated individuals and historians around the world, that is about to change,” said Mardirossian in his acceptance speech on behalf of the Near East Foundation.

The ANCA-ER Banquet will begin with an elegant cocktail reception and silent auction at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and awards ceremony at 6 p.m. To purchase tickets or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit http://www.anca.org/erbanquet. For more information, please email erbanquet@anca.org or call (917) 428-1918.

The ANCA-ER Endowment Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization that supports the ANCA-ER in outreach to Armenian American communities.

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Two years have already passed since the somber days that forever deprived the Armenian-American community from the cherished presence of a remarkable couple, Takouhi and Albert Bagian, whose impact on our Philadelphia community, and particularly on the Armenian Relief Society (ARS), will be long evoked with feelings of nostalgia and a deep sense of gratitude and loss.

Albert Begian at ARS Convention, receiving Agnouni Award recipient

A devoted member of the ARS “Artemis” Chapter for over six decades, Takouhi—or Queenie to all who knew and loved her—along with her equally dedicated spouse, Albert left behind a legacy of devoted care, concern, and empathy for all things Armenian, of protecting and promoting the time-tested values that preserve and enhance our ancient yet unique traditions and culture.

Some will remember Queenie as a loyal HOM-ouhi with a meticulous and perfectionist nature, who pledged her time and resources to serve the ARS (or HOM, in Armenian) and the efficient implementation of its vast local, regional, and global humanitarian programs. Others—neighbors, acquaintances, and friends, both Armenian and odar—will recall the smiling, beautiful face of this petite, gregarious brunette, who had a kind and attentive word for everyone.

Ungerouhi Queenie and Unger Al belonged to that first generation of American-born Armenians who had their roots in Western Armenia via their parents—who, leaving Turkish atrocities behind, had found refuge in the United States. They were part of a generation whose hard-earned yet steady and generous contributions helped build and maintain local and overseas Armenian communities still struggling to shake the nightmarish trauma of the very first genocide of the 20th century and to rebuild their shattered lives under friendlier skies.

One of three siblings, Takouhi grew up in Philadelphia with her brother and sister in a working class family, and experienced the hard times of the Great Depression that came soon after World War I. Like most of the children in the community, she attended Saturday School, where she learned to read and write Armenian.

Albert and Queenie Bagian

Early on, Queenie demonstrated a distinct passion for music, fine arts, and the theater; sadly, family circumstances and hard times wouldn’t allow her to pursue formal schooling in the fields that excited her, including advanced Armenian education. However, true to character, Queenie’s native zest and optimism helped her to make the most of whatever life had to offer, ultimately leading her—through her early membership in the Armenian Relief Society—to become an active participant and devoted patron of cultural, academic, and humanitarian endeavors that characterize ARS programs worldwide.

Queenie’s lifelong spouse, Albert Bagian, a staunch Dashnaktsakan and equally dedicated patron of Armenian culture and welfare, was one of five children that included two brothers and two sisters. Brought up in an Armenian-speaking household, Al was fluent in his maternal tongue. He attended Drexel University, studying mechanical engineering at night while running his own business during the day, dealing in machinery for the textile industry.

Within the scope of their multifaceted involvement in Armenian-American community life, the Bagian couple served for many years as active members of the Armenian National Education Committee (ANEC), a joint project of the Armenian Relief Society and the Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Eastern United States. Within the same arena of Armenian education on foreign shores, Albert, along with other past benefactors, such as Yervant and Helen Terzian, demonstrated a lifelong dedication to the Armenian Sisters’ Academy in Philadelphia.

Needless to say, the Bagians will always be remembered for their generous moral and financial contributions to the ARS. Queenie’s nearly 70 years of service in the ranks of the ARS “Artemis” Chapter—from 1943 to the day of her passing in 2012—were marked by her active involvement as the chapter’s chairperson and as a member of the Regional and Central Executive Boards. In 1970, Queenie founded the ARS Junior Auxiliary, comprised of young college students who supported the ARS Summer Studies Program (currently the Youth

Connect Program). Alongside her administrative duties, as a full-time volunteer at the Haigazian School of Philadelphia, this remarkable HOM-ouhi organized and promoted theatrical productions, concerts, and other cultural programs, inspired by her lifelong love of Armenian music and poetry.

Before he passed away in 2011, Unger Albert, a lifelong Hai Tahd activist, in addition to being an ARF and ARS member—and serving as liaison to the ARS Regional Board—was also past chair of the Central Committee of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation of Eastern USA.

Over the years, among many other contributions, the Bagians donated $50,000 to the creation of the ARS “Mother & Child” Health and Birthing Center in Akhourian, Armenia, an outstanding gynecological/pediatric establishment that has helped reduce the infant mortality rate in the region with its state-of-the-art technology and modern facilities, and its compassionate, professionally trained staff.

Reminiscing with affection, Angele Manoogian, another longtime ARS Ungerouhi currently serving as a member of the Central Committee of the ARF Eastern Region, referred to the Bagians as, above all, truly committed benefactors: “With the wealth they had,” she said, “they could just as well have enjoyed a much higher standard of living, but they preferred to leave the bulk of their wealth to the Armenian nation. They were truly guardian angels, devoted to the ideals and ongoing mission of the ARS,” she said. While the Bagians donated to all Armenian organizations and causes, Manougian added, their unshakeable trust and deep love for the ARS, in particular, was what set them apart in their six decades of consistent involvement in all aspects of community life.

“Ungerouhi Queenie took care of the ‘Artemis’ Chapter as she would have taken care of her own child,” she continued, “She always made sure young people joined the ARS. The chapter has Ungerouhis who were trained by her, and they’re in their 50s now,” she concluded.

As recognition for their lifelong service to the ARS and its worldwide efforts, the Bagians received the prestigious ARS “Agnouni” Award, named after the organization’s founder.

Caroline Chamavonian, a 30-year member of the “Artemis” Chapter, and presently a member of the ARS Central Executive Board, remembers Queenie as a leader who never ceased to take her under her wing, to teach her “the ARS ropes,” so to speak. “Every time she called me, she related ARS stories at length—conventions, projects, programs.”

“Although her life revolved around the ARS,” Chamavonian noted, Queenie was also part of the Ladies’ Guild and sang in the choir at St. Gregory the Illuminator’s Church in Philadelphia. “She was very talented as the organist of the church, as well,” Chamavonian said. “And both Ungerouhi Queenie and Unger Albert gave of their time to the Armenian Cause, no questions asked.”

Chamavonian remembers Queenie as a perfectionist in everything she set out to do, with no stone left unturned to make an event or program successful. She recalls one particular ARS of Philadelphia chapter anniversary celebration, when they were working in the kitchen, cutting bread and taking it out in baskets to be set on the tables.

Chamavonian had started to take a basket out, when she was abruptly stopped by Queenie and told to take the bread out and face it right-side up. “She had to have it perfect! Everything she did was special. A couple of years ago I was in the kitchen and stopped a young person that did the same thing, and I thought to myself, ‘I’ve turned into Queenie!’” Chamavonian said.

Tom Vartabedian, the popular, longtime Armenian Weekly columnist, in a 2008 article quoted Albert as saying, “I believe in everything this organization does in terms of charity, education, and public service. I’ll be celebrating its Centennial in 2010 with extreme elation…”

Queenie and Al, our beloved Bagian couple, may no longer be with us physically, but their legacy is very much alive in the ARS Eastern Region ranks. Their incredible generosity as benefactors, and genuine humility as devoted workers, remain as pristine models to be emulated by generations to come.

–The Armenian Relief Society of Eastern USA

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DETROIT, Mich.—On Sun., Oct. 26, the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Michigan hosted David Trott, then-Republican candidate for the 11th Congressional District of Michigan, at a Meet and Greet at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Dearborn.

Hovig Kouyoumdjian, Congressman-elect David Trott, Lara Nercessian, and Araxie Tossounian

Trott described his stance on economic and foreign policy issues, and his plans for the future, and was open and candid when asked if and how he would support legislation regarding the return of Armenian churches and Armenian Genocide recognition.

Given that the 11th Congressional District of Michigan houses cities most densely populated by Armenians in Michigan, including Novi, Farmington, and West Bloomfield, Trott was keenly aware that the community is looking to him to be its advocate and supporter. He expressed his willingness to help the Armenian cause, and said he would meet with community leaders again to further educate himself in order to advocate in an informed manner.

“We believe that he will support and work with our community and his constituents,” said Lara Nercessian, the co-chair of the ANC of Michigan.

Trott expressed his gratitude to the Armenian community and to the Armenian National Committee of Michigan for the opportunity to speak directly to citizens, and said he looked forward to working with the ANC.

On Nov. 4, Trott won his district’s congressional seat.

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WATERTOWN, Mass.—The Tekeyan Cultural Association’s (TCA) Central Board of Directors recently appointed Aram Arkun as executive director of the association, headquartered in Watertown.

Aram Arkun

“We are glad and fortunate to be able to appoint such a talent to fill our vacant post of executive director in Watertown, and we are looking forward to work with Mr. Arkun to fulfill and advance our cultural and educational programs in the United States, Canada, and Armenia,” said Dr. Haroutiun Arzoumanian, president of the TCA Central Board of Directors.

“The work the Tekeyan Cultural Association carries out in the promotion of Armenian culture is significant,” Arkun said. “Organizations like Tekeyan are especially necessary in the diaspora to provide a gathering place and forum for writers, readers, and all those interested in Armenian creative expression. I hope to be able to help the organization expand its cultural activities and to continue its fine tradition of supporting Armenian schools. I also am very happy to be able to contribute to the Armenian Mirror-Spectator,” he said. “I look forward to working with Tekeyan members and others in the Armenian community, and hearing their ideas about future activities.”

Arkun, a respected scholar, has a master of arts degree in international relations from the University of Pennsylvania, among many other higher education diplomas. He has served as editor-in-chief of “Ararat” quarterly; assistant director of the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center, Armenian Diocese; and adjunct assistant professor at New York University. In addition to English, Arkun speaks classical and modern Armenian, French, Ottoman and modern Turkish, and some Persian, Russian, German, and Arabic.

Tekeyan Cultural Association, Inc. is a non-profit and tax exempt cultural and educational organization founded in 1969 in Massachusetts. It has many chapters throughout the United States and Canada, owns the Arshag Dickranian Day school in Los Angeles, cultural centers in Altadena, Calif., and Montreal, Canada, as well as rented facilities as cultural centers in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and Toronto, Canada. The association publishes the trilingual weekly newspaper “Abaka” in Montreal, sponsors teachers in five TCA schools in Armenia and Karabagh through its “Sponsor a Teacher” program, and publishes many literary books in Armenian and in English.

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On Nov. 1, the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern USA conducted its Regional Educational Seminar at the Hovnanian School in New Milford, N.J. It was hosted jointly by the four New Jersey ARS Chapters—Agnouni, Bergen County, Shakeh, and Spitak.

Participants in the seminar

The day started with a rich spread for breakfast. The ARS anthem was sung by Silva Kouyoumdjian, and joined by all. Talin Daghlian, chairperson of the ARS of Eastern USA, gave her welcoming remarks. She acknowledged the ARS Central Executive Board (CEB) treasurer, Caroline Chamavonian, and the guest speaker Khatchig Mouradian, and welcomed all 13 chapter representatives from 7 states to the fiscal year Regional Seminar.

Daghlian in her remarks stressed the organization’s mission, programs, and projects, and the difficult task our communities are facing with limited financial sources and manpower. She encouraged members to stay actively involved in fulfilling the ARS’s humanitarian projects.

Sevan Kolejian

She thanked the four ARS New Jersey chapters for sponsoring the seminar, and thanked Hovnanian School Board of Trustees administrator Hilda Baronian for reserving the hall for the seminar in a short time.

In his presentation, Mouradian went back in time and gave a comprehensive report about the Armenian Red Cross, which was also known as the ARF Red Cross and later became the Armenian Relief Society. He showed the reports, minutes, and correspondence of the early women’s groups that functioned in Armenian cities and towns within the Ottoman Empire, as well as elsewhere in Georgia (then part of the Russian Empire) and Persia.

The Armenian Red Cross was founded by Agnouni in 1910, during a two-month prolonged visit to the U.S. During its first Convention, on May 30-31, 1915, it made an appeal to U.S. President Wilson.

The ARS, in coordination with the Near East Relief, carried out relief work during and after the Armenian Genocide. During the ARS Convention in Boston in 1926, it adopted the “Meg vorp, meg vosgi” (“One orphan, one gold coin”) program to secure the freedom of Armenian orphans who were taken by Turks and Kurds.

From 1918-21, after World War I and before Ataturk came in power in Turkey, the ARS and other Armenian organizations were active and flourished in areas of the Ottoman Empire under Allied control. During this time, the activities of the ARS expanded throughout the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, and elsewhere where survivors of the genocide had settled. The ARS even reached Shanghai. Interestingly enough, an American missionary from Van went to China and helped the Armenian refugees there. Mouradian is currently researching this subject through a China Fellowship grant from the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.

Khatchig Mouradian

After a plentiful and delicious Armenian lunch, during which the ungerouhis had a chance to co-mingle and reminisce, the seminar continued with a presentation by Sevan Kolejian on the ARS’s current activities worldwide and especially in Armenia, Artsakh, Javakhk, and Aleppo. Especially dire is the situation in Aleppo, she said, which needs our full dedication and sacrifice.

She handed out forms, and everyone participated and offered suggestions for building and strengthening of the ARS.

The last hour of the seminar was dedicated to a Q&A session and discussion of issues. Everyone left the seminar with positive feelings and high spirits.

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BOSTON, Mass.—On Tues., Nov. 25, Greg Nanigian, the president of Greg Nanigian and Associates (GNA), will speak at the Armenian Business Network (ABN) networking event at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel on “Why Features and Benefits Don’t Sell and What Does!”

Greg Nanigian

Nanigian’s highly interactive and educational session will address selling challenges that include price objections, getting rid of “Think it Overs,” and closing deals without sounding like a salesperson. Participants will discover specific wholesale changes to improve closing ratios and a process for qualifying potential customers faster. The presentation will demonstrate that the person who talks more in a selling situation is the person who is not in control. Greg Nanigian will share the “Sandler” Seven Step Selling System that enables users to sell more and sell more easily. Participants will discover how to build credibility without “spilling their candy in the lobby”—in other words, how to build credibility without doing lots of free consulting and presenting too soon.

Nanigian is known for his dynamic presentations, making audiences laugh as they develop their skills in how to make more money. The event is free of charge and open to all Armenians, ABN members, and their friends and associates. “We are thrilled to have Greg Nanigian present at our up-coming networking event,” said Jack Antounian, the founder/chairman of ABN.

Rumor has it that whenever Greg Nanigian speaks there is standing room-only, so register in advance and arrive early,” Antounian advised.

Greg Nanigian is a sales and sales management trainer and writer. He has operated Sandler Training in Massachusetts since 1987. He also races for charity in a NASCAR Prostock race car at race tracks in New England. Greg Nanigian and Associates has provided sales training services for Cummings Properties, the Boston Business Journal, New York Life Insurance, Lehman Millet Advertising, Sovereign Bank, Cardi’s Furniture, Grace Construction Products, Deltek, Premier Fence, and thousands more. Nanigian has led programs for several professional associations, including Chambers of Commerce, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the International Health and the Raquetsports Association, and the New England Reprographics Associates.

The event begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel, 606 Congress St. in Boston. Register online by e-mailing armenianbusinessnetwork@gmail.com by Nov. 21, 2014.

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Recognized for its innovative design that both celebrates and commemorates, Armenian Heritage Park—prominently located on Boston’s Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway—is a living legacy for children and grandchildren, and a fitting tribute to parents and grandparents.

Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway

The realization of the park and its endowed public programs has been made possible thanks to the generosity and commitment of individuals, foundations, and organizations.

Presently, the Campaign for Armenian Heritage Park is completing its final phase to raise funds to build the endowed fund for the park’s ongoing care and maintenance. Annually, the cost of year-round care, landscaping, and maintenance of the park is close to $80,000; the Greenway Conservancy is under contract to care for and maintain the park.

If you have yet to support, this is the perfect time to participate and show your support. You will be joining a distinguished group of philanthropic families and individuals who are supporting Armenian Heritage Park and its endowed programs.

If you are a supporter, please consider adding to your contribution.

If every member of our community—prior supporters and those yet to support—takes this opportunity to support the park’s Endowed Fund for Care and Maintenance, we will reach our goal.

To date, $1.2 million has been raised for the endowed fund’s goal of $2million

Contributions may be made online at www.ArmenianHeritagePark.org or by mail with check (made payable to the Armenian Heritage Foundation) to the Foundation, 25 Flanders Road, Belmont, MA 02478. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent of the law.

All contributions received by June 1, 2015 will be acknowledged in the Commemorative Book. Supporters will be acknowledged in the category of giving that combines all contributions. A Thank You Reception will be held in November 2015 for all supporters.

If you have included Armenian Heritage Park in your estate plans, inform the Armenian Heritage Foundation in writing for an invitation to join the Legacy Society of Giving.

For more information or to arrange a visit, call Jim Kalustian (781-643-7758), Charles Guleserian (617-484-6100), Haig Deranian (617-489-9465), Walter Nahabedian (781-891-7249), Astor Guzelian (781-326-5764), George Elanjian (781-888-2227), or Barbara Tellalian (617-803-8785). For photos of the park and information on programs, visit www.armenianheritagepark.org.

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The Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Rhode Island, the only influential Armenian-American grassroots advocacy group in the state, undertook an ambitious—and successful—election program this year. The local ANC chapter interviewed many candidates seeking the endorsement, including Republicans, Democrats, Moderates, and Independents alike. Letters of support, as well as lawn signs, were sent to the communities with endorsed candidates.

US Congressman David Cicilline speaking with Sosi Kaprielian Kelley

On the city, town, and federal levels, the following candidates received the ANC-RI’s endorsement:

Providence: Dan McKiernan, candidate for State Representative District 7; Patrick Butler, candidate for City Council, Ward 5.

North Providence: Incumbents Dino Autiello, John Lynch, and Alice Brady, all for Town Council; Ken Amoriggi and Don Cataldi for School Committee.

Cranston: Speaker of the House, Nicholas Mattiello, State Senator and incumbent Hanna Gallo.

Warwick: Mayor Scott Avedisian.

East Providence: Representative Katherine Kazarian.

Federal delegation: Sen. Jack Reed; Congressman David Cicilline; Congressman James Langevin.

ANC-RI members also attended events for many of the candidates, including Mayor Avedisian, U.S. Senator Reed (annual breakfast), U.S. Congressmen Cicilline and Langevin, along with Representative Kazarian, Speaker Mattiello, Representative Arthur “Doc” Corvese, and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (annual clambake).

(L-R) Attorney General Peter Kilmartin, ANC member Harry Kachadoorian and newly elected Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea

An important part of the 2014 election cycle was the “Meet and Greet the Candidates” program, which took place on three consecutive weeks in the Fermanian Hall of Sts. Vartanantz Church during the fellowship hour. These events provided the community with a chance to meet the candidates in person, and to have one-on-one conversations. Channel 10 news covered the Nov. 2 event.

The following candidates participated: On Oct. 19, Democrats David Cicilline for U.S. Congress; Gina M. Raimondo for governor; Nellie M. Gorbea, secretary of state; Peter F. Kilmartin, attorney general; Seth Magaziner, treasurer; Jorge Elorza, mayor of Providence. On Oct. 26, Independents and Moderates Robert Healey, governor; Ernest Almonte, treasurer. On Nov. 2, Republicans Mark S. Zaccaria, U.S. Senate; Rhue R. Reis, U.S. Congress; Allan W. Fung, governor; Catherine Terry Taylor, lt. governor; John M. Carnevale, Sr., secretary of state; Dawson Tucker Hodgson, attorney general; and Scott Avedisian, mayor of Warwick.

The ANC-RI looks forward to working closely with the newly elected officials as the community heads towards the Centennial commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. The ANC-RI asks readers to consider contributing to the organization so it may continue to fight for the interests of the Armenian community, as well as national programs. and the many events that will make up the Centennial commemoration of the Armenian Genocide.

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YEREVAN—The American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA) program of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) recently awarded the American University of Armenia (AUA) with a $566,500 grant to create, furnish, and equip an Innovation & Technology Incubation Center that aims to empower students to create, collaborate, and venture beyond the demands of their degree program requirements.

The Innovation & Technology Incubation Center will coalesce existing activity in entrepreneurship and innovation at AUA in a synergistic locale where student team-work, creativity, and innovative technologies will come together to foster new ventures and partnerships. The center will use the American-style entrepreneurial spirit of openness and sharing of information to create potential for new enterprises that will contribute to both the local and global economy and employ the young business leaders of the future.

The facilities will include rooms dedicated for technology incubation, computers, and other infrastructural equipment to support business development activities. Showrooms and shared-space meeting rooms will encourage interaction, multidisciplinary collaboration, and the exchange of ideas with internal as well as external stakeholders. The goal is to foster closer linkages between academia and industry.

The four-year project is estimated to be completed by Sept. 30, 2018. “We are grateful to the U.S. government and its ASHA program for continued support of our university,” said AUA President Dr. Armen Der Kiureghian. “This grant will enable us to create a space where students, faculty, and researchers from different programs will come together to innovate and implement ideas, some of which hopefully will spin-off as start-ups in technology, green engineering, and business.”

AUA has received support from ASHA for many years, with past projects including the renovation and expansion of the university’s library and cafeteria, and active projects such as the creation of integrated technology classrooms, the replacement of university elevators, and the creation of a Student Services/Student Excellence Center.

ASHA provides assistance to schools, libraries, and medical centers outside of the United States that serve as study and demonstration centers for American ideas and practices. ASHA’s grants help these institutions train future leaders in a wide variety of disciplines, support local and regional infrastructure to foster development, and cultivate positive relationships and mutual understanding among citizens of the United States and other nations.

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, and is affiliated with the University of California. AUA provides a global education in Armenia and the region, offering high-quality graduate and undergraduate studies, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting public service and democratic values.

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By Audrey Selian

It was a busy day on Sat., Nov. 1 at the Blood Donation Center at the University Hospital of Geneva (HUG) in Switzerland; nearly a dozen people descended upon the small donation center to kick off the launch of Blood For Memory (BFM), a global campaign designed to gather 1.5 million blood donations from around the world as an act memorializing the forthcoming Centennial of the Armenian Genocide.

The events of the day were especially important for Kegham Avedisyan, 100, who was present with three generations of his family, including his great-grandchildren, aged 4 and 2. Avedisyan’s immediate family were survivors of the genocide; he himself was subjected to the horrors of work camps in eastern Turkey as late as the early 1940’s.

“Thanks to ‘Blood For Memory,’ we can peacefully commemorate a senseless tragedy,” he stated. For this Geneva resident of over 50 years, “… it’s vital to remind people that vigilance and solidarity with those who need it are key to ensuring that history does not repeat itself.” In 1920, Avedisyan’s father Krikor left Istanbul to travel as far as Washington, D.C. to eventually meet President Woodrow Wilson through a legal intermediary. Having been deported during the period of mass killings but having narrowly escaped thanks to the help of Turkish friends, he was intent on discussing the plight of the Armenian populations in Ottoman Turkey.

About BloodforMemory.org

The Blood For Memory team hails from Geneva, and the project sits under the aegis of the Swiss Committee for Armenian Organizations for the commemoration of the 2015 Centennial. They have built their website on a volunteer basis, translating content into 12 languages to help achieve maximal international exposure. The project is truly a global blood drive, inviting people to participate in the commemoration not only of the Armenian Genocide, but of all genocides and crimes against humanity.

“This is just the beginning,” explained Lucy Baghramian, co-founder of the initiative. Her co-founder Vanik Baghramian added, “The victims of such crimes did not choose to give their blood or their lives. Today, in their memory, we give ours in the hope that it helps people, and we hope that many will follow suit.”

Kegham and his grandson Alec Avedisyan, a blood donor

A unique alternative for activism

In 2013, the city of Geneva barely cleared 70 percent of its blood donation needs for the entire year, a common trend in most major cities and urban centers. The BFM team aims to restore a strong local momentum around donations. “Contrary to the popular Ice Bucket Challenge, this is a direct action that people can make to save lives,” said Alec Avedisyan, the grandson of Kegham Avedisyan and a blood donor.

Kegham and BFM Team Lucy Baghramian, Vanik Baghramian, and Audrey Selian

The BFM project offers each of us an opportunity to support our local community, irrespective of where we live. The act of giving blood helps those suffering from illnesses, or those who may have difficult deliveries. For example, for every difficult birth, a woman may need as much as the equivalent of 15 blood donations to survive if she bleeds heavily. For a bad car accident, a single victim could need as many as the equivalent of 50 blood donations to live. These examples could have meaning for any one of us, or the family and friends in our immediate periphery. Above and beyond the act of memorializing, dedications on the BloodforMemory.org website are a means by which to mobilize our peers and our communities.

How to get involved?

To help the BFM team achieve their goal of 1.5 million blood donations, participation is very simple:

1. give blood at a local medical establishment in your city;
2. register your donation on the BFM website (www.bloodformemory.org);
3. share the photo of yourself giving your donation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media network.

Join the team and their various partners and satellite teams in kicking off the BloodforMemory.org campaign for achieving 1.5 million blood donations. Act now. Help us turn the darkness into light.

The post Blood For Memory: A Unique Approach to Honoring the Genocide Centennial appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

NEW YORK— The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA ER) is pleased to announce that community leader and humanitarian Dr. Garo Nazarian will serve as Master of Ceremonies of the 8th Annual ANCA Eastern Region Banquet. The gala evening will be held on Sun., Dec. 7, at the Ritz-Carlton Battery Park Hotel in New York City.

Dr. Garo Nazarian will be the Master of Ceremonies at the ANCA-ER banquet in New York City on Sun., Dec. 7.

“I am honored to serve as Master of Ceremonies of this year’s ANCA Eastern Region banquet and share the podium with our respected honorees—Mr. Robert Morgenthau and Ms. Alice Movsesian,” said Dr. Nazarian. “The work that the ANCA does is pivotal in ensuring the long-term viability and development of the Armenian Nation and I am proud to add my voice to that effort,” he added.

Dr. Garo Nazarian grew up in the New York City metropolitan area Armenian community, graduating from Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School in 1988. After earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Boston College, Dr. Nazarian returned to his native New York and received his D.D.S. from Columbia University.

One of his lifelong passions has been the ability to help Armenia and its children. During the past six summers Dr. Nazarian and a team of dentists have spent two weeks providing dental care for the orphaned and disadvantaged in Armenia. This irreplaceable and one of a kind experience has proven to be fulfilling, gratifying and educational all at the same time. Each summer session at the dental clinic located in southwestern Armenia at the charming Camp Siranoush, the dentists complete more than a hundred treatment plans which include each child receiving an exam, cleaning and fluoride treatment, as well as hundreds of amalgam and composite fillings, countless extractions and as many root canal treatments as they can fit in their 12-hour workday.

When not in Armenia, Dr. Nazarian keeps a private practice in midtown Manhattan focusing on all aspects of general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. As a member of the American Dental Association, New York County Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, and the New York State Dental Association, Dr. Nazarian has had an opportunity to work with many of the top dental specialists and cosmetic dentists from around the world. These experiences have motivated him to provide the best quality dentistry with the most advanced technology. Dr. Nazarian currently resides in Long Island with his wife Rubina and two children Alina and Alec.

“Dr. Nazarian’s commitment to the children of Armenia is an inspiration to us all,” said ANCA Eastern Region Board Member Karine Shnorhokian. “His unrelenting dedication—and that of the doctors who work with him—reminds us of the volunteer spirit that has been a cornerstone of Armenian American community development for generations.”

The ANCA Eastern Region Banquet will begin with an elegant cocktail reception and silent auction at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and awards ceremony at 6 p.m. To purchase tickets or to make a tax-deductible donation, please visit http://www.anca.org/erbanquet . For more information, please email erbanquet@anca.org or call (917) 428-1918.

The ANCA Eastern Region Endowment Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable and educational organization that supports the Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region in outreach to Armenian American communities.

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By Hagop Vartivarian

A scene from the event

ENGLEWOOD, N.J.—After Detroit, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Fresno, the Tekeyan Cultural Association (TCA) made New York reverberate with the words of a pair of newly published volumes dedicated to the writings of Vahan Tekeyan—Vahan Tekeyan: Selected Poems, translated into English by Gerald Papasian and his uncle John Papasian, and the Armenian-language Vahan Tekeyan: Panasdeghdzutiunneru hadendir, edited by Edmond Azadian.

The presentation took place on Friday evening, Oct. 31, at the New Jersey TCA Center, where admirers of Tekeyan the poet and public figure filled the hall completely. The program was at a professional level suited to the audience, which itself appeared to have serious literary interests. The director, actor, and translator Gerard Papasian had come from Paris for the occasion, while literary critic Edmond Azadian and artist Nora Ipekian-Azadian came from Detroit.

After words of welcome from the chairman of the New York TCA executive, the artistic portion of the program began with a performance by one of the best interpreters of classical music, soprano Anahit Zakaryan, accompanied on the piano with composer Hampartzoum Berberian’s music of Tekeyan’s poems “G’antzreve, dghas” (“It Is Raining, My Son”) and “Ser me kaghdni” (“A Secret Love”).

Zarmine Boghosian, educator and writer, served as the master of ceremonies. Boghosian was recently given a medal by the Mother See of Etchmiadzin. Thanks to her efforts, the program went smoothly, and she introduced the participating artists with a seriousness worthy of Tekeyan.

While the program had been initiated and organized by the TCA, the Hamazkayin Armenian Education and Cultural Society and the Essayan-Getronagan Alumni Association also participated as fellow cultural organizations. As Vahan Tekeyan had been a student in, and then principal of, Constantinople’s [Armenian] National Central [Getronagan] School, it was particularly appropriate that the chairman of the latter’s alumni association, Arto Khrimian, give a heart-felt talk.

The anthology of poems in English translation was presented by the well-known intellectual and translator Dr. Hrant Markarian. He analyzed on video the difficult work conducted by the Papasians, which reappeared at a late date by chance in John Papasian’s home in Rome, after the latter had passed away in Cairo in 1989. This initial work was continued by Gerald.

The book was published by California State University, Fresno, and edited by Edmond Azadian. The cover illustration, a portrait painting of Vahan Tekeyan, is by Nora Azadian, who personally knew the writer while he was living in Cairo. The Prince of Poets would frequently visit the home of Azadian’s maternal grandfather, Mihran Damadian, the hero of Sasun and an Armenian Democratic Liberal leader.

The poet Vehanoush Tekian presented in the Armenian language the second book, which was published by Armenia’s TCA in Yerevan in 2012. Edmond Azadian both edited this volume and wrote its foreword. The book is comprised of a selection of Tekeyan’s poems in separate chapters, “Presenting Oneself,” “Love and Impossible Loves,” “Armenian Verses,” “Something Terrible Thing There,” and “Beyond Life and Death,” which represent the true measure of the great poet.

Instead of just introducing the book, Tekian also gave information on Tekeyan’s biography and work, which she conscientiously prepared (and which could be presented in a separate literary assembly).

Gerald Papasian first expressed his gratitude to the TCA executive for organizing the event and then reflected on the process of translating the volume. It was laborious and the book was given to the publisher only after a hiatus of many years.

Then the graceful actress Nora Armani and Papasian recited six poems from the English translation of Tekeyan’s verses.

The multitalented Nora Azadian, despite her advanced, age recited with deep feeling two well-known Tekeyan poems—“Bidi esenk Asdudzoy” (“We Shall Say to God”) and “Bidi iynas” (“You Will Fall”), which at the threshold of the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide display Tekeyan’s rage even against God as he wrote:

“Let us all swear that when at last we meet

God in his paradise coming to greet

and comfort and make amends for our pain,

we shall refuse his tardy gift, and say:

‘Send us to hell. Send us to hell again.

You made us know it alas, all too well.

Save paradise for the Turks. Send us to hell.’”

The audience responded with a long-standing ovation to Nora Azadian’s interpretation of Tekeyan’s words.

Edmond Azadian then spoke, thanking the organizing committee and specifically mentioning each artist in the program. Azadian himself is one of only a few living intellectuals who knows Tekeyan’s work and life, and transmits to the new diasporan and Armenian literary generation the legacy of Tekeyan’s Armenian national activities and the talent he used for the advancement of Armenian literature.

Azadian has various works dedicated to Tekeyan and other Armenian writers scattered throughout the pages of our national press, and finally is engaged in assembling them in the form of several volumes.

The talented contemporary singer and songwriter Berge Turabian then performed three songs of Tekeyan’s verses that he had set to music. Turabian is one of the best interpreters of Tekeyan, and of Charles Aznavour. He has a compact disc of Tekeyan verses turned to song.

At the conclusion of the event, some in the audience brought copies of the books to be autographed by the authors.

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BOSTON, Mass.—On Fri., Dec. 12, Middlesex County Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian will moderate a panel discussion entitled, “Exploring Identities in the Armenian Diaspora: A Panel Discussion with Members of the Emerging Generation,” at Northeastern University in Boston. The program is being organized by the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR) and is co-sponsored by the Northeastern Armenian Students Association, the MIT Armenian Society, AGBU-YP Boston, and NAASR.

Koutoujian to Moderate Panel at Northeastern on Diasporan Identities

Although it is often referred to as if it were a single entity, the Armenian Diaspora is comprised of several generations of diverse individuals and groups. This panel will engage in a frank discussion with four young Armenian Americans of various backgrounds that explores various aspects of Armenian identity in the diaspora. Following the program and question-and-answer period, there will be a reception and refreshments.

Koutoujian is the current sheriff of Middlesex County. First appointed by Governor Deval Patrick and then elected in 2012, Koutoujian has focused his efforts on further professionalizing the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, while providing additional resources for those in his custody in an effort to address their criminal behavior. Prior to his tenure as Sheriff, Koutoujian served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where he chaired the Committees on Healthcare, Public Health, and Financial Services.

The panel discussion begins at 7 p.m. at Northeastern University, McLeod Suites, Curry Student Center (3rd floor), 346 Huntington Ave. in Boston. For more information, contact NAASR by calling (617) 489-1610 or e-mailing hq@naasr.org.

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(The Providence Journal)—Helen M. (Garabedian) Mikitarian, 77, of Auburn, Mass., passed away on Oct. 16 at Saint Vincent Hospital with her loving family at her side.

Helen Garabedian Mikitarian

Helen was born in Providence, R.I., on Aug. 7, 1937, the daughter of Harry “Harootun” and Irene (Aroosiag) Garabedian, and graduated from Hope High School in 1955. She and George “Mickey” Mikitarian married in 1956, and together relocated to Worcester.

Helen was a stay-at-home mom for 18 years before going out into the work world. She worked for Day Brothers, Inc. and Day Truck Rental from 1974-92. She then held various positions, including corporate controller, at Ragsdale Motor Group from 1992 to 2005.

Helen’s children and grandchildren were the greatest joys in her life. She was always so proud of their accomplishments and success. She gave and taught them unconditional love. Her favorite saying was, “What goes around, comes around,” which certainly proved right for all the love, generosity, and care she received in return from all of them. Helen was truly a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to all those who knew her.

Helen leaves her beloved husband of 58 years, George “Mickey” Mikitarian, Sr., and their four children, George Mikitarian, Jr., his wife Liz and their son, George “Mickey” Mikitarian, III, all of Titusville, Fla.; Michael G. Mikitarian of Shrewsbury, Mass.; John Mikitarian and wife Celeste of Northborough, and their sons, Joseph, David, and Benjamin; and daughter Irene M. Harris of Worcester, and her daughters Courtney Sage and Nicole Sage Carpenter. She also leaves a sister Mary (Maro) Dionisopoulos and husband Spiros of Lincoln, R.I., two brothers H. Charles Garabedian and wife Sally of Smithfield, R.I., and Aram G. Garabedian (former Rhode Island state senator) and wife Jane of Cranston, R.I.; a sister-in-law Rosemarie Mikitarian of Worcester; and several nephews and nieces.

The funeral was held on Oct. 20 at Callahan Fay & Caswell Funeral Home in Worcester with a service at the Armenian Church of Our Saviour. Burial followed at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609.

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Proceeds to Benefit AGBU Performing Arts Initiatives Worldwide

NEW YORK—The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) New York Special Events Committee’s (NYSEC) Performing Artists in Concert will take place on Sat., Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in New York.

he 7th Annual Performing Artists in Concert will feature (top row, L-R) Samvel Arakelyan (violin), Narek Arutyunian (clarinet), and Grigor Khachatryan (piano); (center row, L-R) Lilit Kurdiyan (cello), Nune Melikian (violin), and Edvard Pogossian (cello); (bottom row, L-R) Veronika Vardpatrikyan (viola), Lauren Williams (oboe), and Sarkis Zakarian (piano, artistic director).

The concert will be dedicated to celebrating the life and work of renowned Armenian composer Tigran Mansurian. The event, in honor of Mansurian’s 75th birthday, will bring together young musicians from Armenia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The musicians in this year’s international ensemble include Samvel Arakelyan (violin), Narek Arutyunian (clarinet), Grigor Khachatryan (piano), Lilit Kurdiyan (cello), Nune Melikian (violin), Edvard Pogossian (cello), Veronika Vardpatrikyan (viola), Lauren Williams (oboe), and Sarkis Zakarian (piano). Zakarian, who recently launched the AGBU London Chamber Orchestra, will also serve as the artistic director for the evening.

Each musician has received an AGBU Performing Arts Fellowship, which has supported his/her training at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions. This year’s ensemble includes graduates of the Yerevan State Komitas Conservatory, the Royal Academy of Music, the Juilliard School, and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

The evening’s program will feature a diverse array of Western classical and Armenian composers. Along with lesser-known pieces by Grammy Award nominee Mansurian, guests will also be treated to two rarely performed transcriptions by Alexander Spendiaryan and works by Aram Khachaturian, Mozart, and Schumann, among others.

Tickets for the benefit concert are on sale now. Seats are available in the orchestra and front balcony for $65 and in the rear balcony for $35. To purchase tickets, call the AGBU at (212) 319-6383 or visit www.carnegiehall.org.

To make a contribution to AGBU NYSEC initiatives, visit https://donate.agbu.org/agbu-nysec-initiatives. Donors who contribute $1,000 or more will be recognized in the Performing Artists in Concert booklet and will receive two complimentary concert tickets and two invitations for dinner with the evening’s performers following the concert.

For more information about AGBU and its worldwide programs, visit www.agbu.org.

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass.—On Dec. 14, the Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Cambridge will present the Erevan Chorale and Orchestra’s annual Christmas Concert, beginning at 7 p.m. The Chorale and Orchestra will present a festive program of Armenian sharagans, Armenian and Western Christmas carols, as well as special performances dedicated to the 145th anniversary of Komitas Vartabed and the 100th anniversary of the composer Aram Satunts.

On Dec. 14, the Holy Trinity Armenian Church of Cambridge will present the Erevan Chorale and Orchestra’s annual Christmas Concert.

The Erevan Chorale and Orchestra will host a number of soloists, including soprano Narine Ojakhyan who, after graduating from London’s Royal Academy Music, has performed in various concerts and festivals throughout the world and has won a number of international prizes. David Gevorkyan on duduk will play works by Komitas, and soprano Kate Norigian will perform Armenian and American Christmas songs.

The evening will feature the U.S. premiere of “Ave Maria” by Aram Satyan, the president of the Composers Union of Armenia, a special guest of the concert. The Erevan Chorale and Orchestra will perform under the direction of composer and conductor Maestro Konstantin Petrossian.

More than 400 members and supporters of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) attended the Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh’s celebration of the ARF’s 124^th anniversary.

More than 400 members and supporters of the ARF attended the Detroit “Azadamard” Gomideh’s celebration of the ARF’s 124th anniversary.

Those who were at Burton Manor in Livonia, Mich., heard an important anniversary message from former ARF Bureau member Hayg Oshagan, witnessed ARF “Azadamard” Gomideh chair Raffi Ourlian’s heartfelt appreciation for three ARF hamagirs (supporters), danced to the music of Shiraz Yeghiazarian, and sang patriotic and revolutionary songs with Karnig Sarkissian.

All proceeds from the event were earmarked for the Syrian-Armenian Fund.

The evening opened with the singing of the American and Armenian national anthems by Araxie Tossounian, an active member of the Armenian National Committee of Michigan. The Armenian, American, Artsakh, and ARF flags were presented and posted by the Detroit Homenetmen Scouts.

Rev. Hrant Kevorkian of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church and Very Rev. Vahan Tootikian of the Armenian Congregational Church offered prayers and personal congratulations to the ARF on the occasion of its 124^th anniversary.

A scene from the event

In his keynote remarks, Oshagan observed, “There is no other organization that does what the ARF does. No organization takes on this challenge, and the ARF has been doing it for 124 years.”

About the ARF’s responsibilities in Armenia, Oshagan noted, “We work every day to try to improve civil society and we are trying to improve the political system.” In Artsakh, the ARF continues to advance a “peaceful resolution and international recognition and security, with Armenia as a guarantor of Artskah’s security through a military pact between Artsakh and Armenia. Artsakh must be an equal partner in negotiations for its self-determination.”

Regarding Javakhk, Oshagan talked about the continued, deliberate campaign by Georgian authorities to drive Armenians from the area through “fear and oppression.” He noted the ARF’s efforts to stabilize the population through various social programs, including the building of youth centers that serve as havens for hundreds of young people. “Work is also being done to target USAID economic assistance to the region.”

A scene from the event

Closer to home, Oshagan recalled the ARF’s mission to build the communities of the Eastern United States after the 1915 Armenian Genocide, recognizing Lowell as the home of the oldest ARF Gomideh, established in 1894. Today, there are more than 15 Gomidehs located east of the Mississippi River.

In Detroit, the ARF has served to guide and lead the community for decades, with the participation and partnership of its family of organizations, the Armenian Relief Society (ARS), Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), Hamazkayin, and Homenetmen. With planning underway for a new Armenian Community Center to be built in Novi, the organization continues to prepare for the community’s future, security, and growth.

A scene from the event

“ARF Day is a day to look back and think of what we have and have not done,” Oshagan concluded. “We have not succeeded in every endeavor, but our biggest success has been the survival of the Armenian nation, not only in Armenia, but also across our vast global nation without borders.”

“We can all be proud,” he said, raising a glass and inviting the crowd to join him in a toast.

Ourlian continued the program by calling each of the three ARF hamagirs to the stage after a brief introduction. Hagop Dakessian, Raffi Kuredjian, and Shakeh Basmajian were awarded plaques and a standing ovation in appreciation for their support of the ARF and its affiliated organizations.

“The hamagir award is one of the best awards that one can receive,” Ourlian said before inviting the recipients to the stage. “Hamagir means the following: one who supports, one who loves the organization, one who shares the same vision, one who is ready to make a difference.”

Dakessian was recognized for his ongoing financial and moral support of the AYF, Hamazkayin, Homenetmen, and other organizations. Ourlian gave an example of Dakessian’s generosity by sharing a story that occurred at the recent 2014 AYF Olympics, hosted by the Detroit AYF Chapter. “He approached me and said that 10-15 kids were turned away from the dance because they didn’t have the admission. He said he wanted those kids in the dance so they could meet other Armenian kids, and he gave a donation to pay for the kids to get in.”

Kuredjian was recognized for his active financial and moral support of the AYF, Hamazkayin, Hamazkayin Arax Dance Group, Homenetmen, and St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church. Kuredjian leads the St. Sarkis Church Long-Term Strategic Committee and “he’s always delivered when asked for anything,” Ourlian said.

Basmajian was recognized for her years of service on all levels in the Armenian Relief Society. Ourlian highlighted Basmajian’s support for the ARF’s projects involving Artsakh’s self-determination and her years of work on the ACAA Heritage Cruise Steering Committee.

“Locally, she helped raise significant money for the Syrian Armenian Relief Fund by setting up phone banks and making calls,” Ourlian added. “Most recently, she helped raise money for the Detroit ARS Zavarian Armenian One Day School.”

Ourlian concluded his presentation by urging the crowd to recognize the spouses of the awardees: Aida Dakessian, Patricia Kuredjian, and George Basmajian. They were also thanked for their part in supporting the ARF with loud applause.

A concert by popular troubadour Karnig Sarkissian ended the evening. Young people stood by the stage singing every word of the revolutionary and patriotic songs, while three young men took the Armenian, Artsakh, and ARF flags from their stands and waved them on the dance floor in time to the music.

Vartkes Sinanian passed away on Sat., Nov. 22, in Glendale, Calif. Sinanian was born in Nicosia, Cyprus, on March 7, 1926.

Vartkes Sinanian

Sinanian is survived by his widow, Margo Sinanian; his son and daughter-in-law, the Honorable Judge Zaven and Armenia Sinanian; his daughter and son-in-law, Ani and Hagop Labejian; grandchildren, Daniel and Lori Sinanian and Patille and Sarine Labejian; as well as many loving cousins, relatives, and friends.

Sinanian was a longtime contributor to the Armenian Weekly. His series of witty columns, “One-Liners from Chicago,” which covered aspects of Armenian community life in Chicago, were reader favorites in the 1970s and 80s. The Armenian Weekly staff extends its condolences to Sinanian’s family and friends.

Funeral Services will take place on Sat., Nov. 29, at 9:30 a.m. at Glendale Forest Lawn, Church of the Recessional.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ARS Syria Fund or Asbarez newspaper.

YEREVAN—Artist Daniel Varoujan Hejinian of Chelmsford, Mass., is not one to sit idle very long, not when his heritage is at stake.

Armenia’s First Lady Rita Sargsyan greets Hejinian at the Presidential Palace in Yerevan.

Weeks after his annual billboard blitz throughout Greater Boston and watching the monument he designed dedicated in Lowell, off he went to Yerevan for a personal exhibit at the National Gallery of Armenia.

Called “Peace of Art” (www.peaceofart.org), the exhibition was part of the 5th Armenia-Diaspora Conference organized by the Republic Ministry of Diaspora and dedicated to the 23rd anniversary of Armenian independence and to the Armenian Genocide Centennial in 2015.

Some 2,000 guests piled into the National Gallery to view the artist’s work, including Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan, Diaspora Minister Hranush Hakobyan, leaders and representatives of Diasporan Armenian organizations, public and political figures, as well as artists of every kind.

According to Hejinian, it was a cultural infusion that left viewers with an indelible impression.

“I’m truly grateful for having this opportunity to exhibit some of my best work in a country where my passion exists,” said Hejinian. “The people here were most receptive. Everywhere I went, hospitality followed. The honor truly lies with all those who made this moment become a reality.”

Pieces of artwork ‘From Genocide to Independence’ representing Hejinian’s exhibit that took place in Armenia this fall.

For openers, Hejinian was welcomed to the Presidential Palace by First Lady Rita Sargsyan where he donated a three-paneled painting (triptych) titled, “From Genocide to Independence.” Other contributions were made to the National Gallery, Ministry of Diaspora, and Ministry of Culture.

Hejinian was presented the prestigious Arshile Gorky Medal by Hakobyan as a token of appreciation.

Karen Aghamyan, president of the Union of Artists of Armenia, granted an honorary membership certificate to the artist.

Artist Daniel Varoujan Hejinian is presented the Arshile Gorky Medal from Diasporan Minister Hranush Hakobyan.

Hejinian’s portrait later graced the cover of Elite Life Magazine published in Armenia, together with more photos and an extensive story inside.

Three showrooms inside the gallery housed the exhibit, featuring 61 works of art in all. The array included 40 graphic pieces and 21 paintings, including 2 triptychs. Aside from the “Genocide to Independence” panel, there was another titled “Crime of the Century,” which Hejinian dedicated to the Centennial observance, along with other “Peace of Art” collectables from his romantic series.

Hejinian was born to a family of Armenians who survived the Armenian Genocide of 1915 and took shelter in Syria. He heard stories of the brutal massacres as a child, and saw it repeatedly through the eyes of his parents.

Since 1996, he has raised signs annually throughout Massachusetts commemorating the genocide, many times under duress and retaliation from Turkish naysayers. Despite the resistance, Hejinian has persevered with his billboard mission, funding the project out of his own pocket.

Among the artwork exhibited was “Hands of a Mother,” after which a design was sculptured from stone and placed at the foot of City Hall in Lowell, Mass.—the first such genocide memorial on government land in the United States.

The compelling memorial was designed for the Armenian Genocide Monument Committee of Merrimack Valley, symbolizing the city’s mill era and the immigrants who toiled there following the genocide.

The design shows two hands weaving fabric above an Armenian cross (khatchkar), designed to represent the hopes and dreams of those who survived the atrocity and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“Love for his homeland, family, nature, and heritage prevails in all of his artwork,” said Hakobyan. “Just as the great writer Daniel Varoujan portrayed the sorrow of Armenians in his work, so has this artist with his brushstrokes. The two are mutually connected by their art form.”

Among those attending the ceremony in Armenia was Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, who served as honorary chairman of the Lowell memorial dedication. Koutoujian presented his opening remarks and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Diaspora for the invitation to participate.

The sheriff spoke proudly of his compatriot, lauding his artistic talents and the message they convey to the world about the crime perpetrated by the Ottoman Turks in the early 20th century.

Art critic Shahen Khachatryan spoke about Hejinian’s paintings and praised his unique style and high mastery of the medium.

In the end, Hejinian expressed gratitude to the Ministry and to Hakobyan, in particular, for turning his dream of having a personal exhibition in the homeland into a reality. He also conveyed gratitude to his wife and daughter for encouraging him to organize the exhibition.

All three showrooms in the National Gallery were agog with visitors. The first was dedicated to the 100th anniversary, and included pieces from Hejinian’s “Peace of Art” collection that reflect human suffering of every magnitude.

Hejinian’s romantic works occupied a second exhibition room, expressing his love of life, women, and music, while a third gallery focused on independence, and included a striking image of doves flying in a peaceful sky while the Armenian Army is engaged in a glorious parade.

“The most significant achievement of independence is the creation of the Armenian Army,” Hejinian feels.

The exhibition took place from Sept. 18 to Oct. 20, attracting everyone from casual townsfolk and students to high-ranking officials and dignitaries both near and afar.

According to the artist Martiros, “Varoujan is a master of color and composition, flexible, diverse and honest with his interpretation. He’s a brilliant representative of 21st-century art.”

“Peace of Art” is a non-profit organization founded by Hejinian in 2003 that uses art as an educational tool to bring awareness to the universal human condition while promoting peaceful solutions to conflict.

The artist dedicates his efforts to the peace keepers and peace achievers around the world, and those who had the courage to place themselves on the line for the betterment of humanity.