The California Courier Online, August 17, 2017
1 – Commentary
Turkish
Activist Admits Major Blow
Activist Admits Major Blow
When Texas Recognized Armenian Genocide
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher,
The California
Courier
The California
Courier
www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com
2 – China Breaks Ground on New Embassy in Yerevan
3 – Danny
Tarkanian to Run for US
Tarkanian to Run for US
Senate
Seat Held by Dean Heller
Seat Held by Dean Heller
4 – Portantino Urges Caruso Holdings Reconsideration
In Genocide Documentary Billboard
Prohibition
Prohibition
5 – Meeting at Armenian Consulate to
Lead
Off a Global Health Initiative
Off a Global Health Initiative
6 – ‘The Sandcastle Girls’ Becomes
San Diego’s 2017 One Book
7 – Aznavour
to Receive
to Receive
A
Star on Hollywood’s
Star on Hollywood’s
Walk
of Fame’ Aug. 24
of Fame’ Aug. 24
8 – Armenians
Liberated
Liberated
From
ISIS in Raqqa
ISIS in Raqqa
By
Syrian Forces
Syrian Forces
9 – AEF
to Honor Long-Time Board Member, Neshan Peroomian
to Honor Long-Time Board Member, Neshan Peroomian
*******************************************
1 – Commentary
Turkish
Activist Admits Major Blow
Activist Admits Major Blow
When Texas Recognized Armenian Genocide
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier
www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com
Armenian-Americans knew that they had scored a
major victory for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide when Texas became the 46th
State to recognize it. What Armenian-Americans did not realize is that the
recognition by Texas
had a devastating impact on the Turkish community’s lobbying efforts in that
State.
major victory for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide when Texas became the 46th
State to recognize it. What Armenian-Americans did not realize is that the
recognition by Texas
had a devastating impact on the Turkish community’s lobbying efforts in that
State.
Ferruh Demirmen, Ph.D.,
revealed in an article in Turkishnews.com the degree of despair he and his
fellow Turks suffered in Texas
when the State House recognized the Armenian Genocide on May 19, 2017. It is
not very often that we come across a Turkish lobbyist who acknowledges total
defeat at the hands of the Armenian community.
revealed in an article in Turkishnews.com the degree of despair he and his
fellow Turks suffered in Texas
when the State House recognized the Armenian Genocide on May 19, 2017. It is
not very often that we come across a Turkish lobbyist who acknowledges total
defeat at the hands of the Armenian community.
Demirmen starts by blaming
his fellow Turks for “years of Turkish apathy and passivity, combined with
Armenian aggressiveness and Western prejudice” for the passage of the
resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide. He also credits the activism by
the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region (ANCA-WR), for
arranging “tours involving Armenian activists at town-hall meetings,” visiting
“State elected officials individually,” and establishing ANCA-WR chapters in
“Dallas, Austin and Houston.”
his fellow Turks for “years of Turkish apathy and passivity, combined with
Armenian aggressiveness and Western prejudice” for the passage of the
resolution recognizing the Armenian Genocide. He also credits the activism by
the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region (ANCA-WR), for
arranging “tours involving Armenian activists at town-hall meetings,” visiting
“State elected officials individually,” and establishing ANCA-WR chapters in
“Dallas, Austin and Houston.”
The Turkish activist also
credits the success of the genocide resolution to the support of “State
Representative Scott Sanford, who is also the Executive Pastor of a Baptist
church in Texas.”
Having done an incredible amount of research for his article, Demirmen recalls
that “at a gala organized by ANCA-Dallas in April 2016, Representative Sanford
was awarded ‘Advocate for Justice Award’ for his ‘strong dedication to raising
awareness about the Armenian Genocide.’ ” At the gala, a letter from Republican
Senator Ted Cruz was read recognizing the Armenian Genocide, according to
Demirmen.
credits the success of the genocide resolution to the support of “State
Representative Scott Sanford, who is also the Executive Pastor of a Baptist
church in Texas.”
Having done an incredible amount of research for his article, Demirmen recalls
that “at a gala organized by ANCA-Dallas in April 2016, Representative Sanford
was awarded ‘Advocate for Justice Award’ for his ‘strong dedication to raising
awareness about the Armenian Genocide.’ ” At the gala, a letter from Republican
Senator Ted Cruz was read recognizing the Armenian Genocide, according to
Demirmen.
On January 26, 2017,
Representative Sanford introduced Texas House Resolution HR-191 to recognize
the Armenian Genocide. The Resolution was first presented to the Trade &
Intergovernmental Affairs Committee (TIAC) which called for a public hearing at
the State Capitol in Austin
on April 24. Demirmen regrets that the Texas
legislature chose “April 24 for the public hearing, a date considered symbolic
for Armenian allegations, [which] was the first sign that TIAC was pro-Armenian
in its outlook.”
Representative Sanford introduced Texas House Resolution HR-191 to recognize
the Armenian Genocide. The Resolution was first presented to the Trade &
Intergovernmental Affairs Committee (TIAC) which called for a public hearing at
the State Capitol in Austin
on April 24. Demirmen regrets that the Texas
legislature chose “April 24 for the public hearing, a date considered symbolic
for Armenian allegations, [which] was the first sign that TIAC was pro-Armenian
in its outlook.”
Demirmen is unhappy that
“the hearing was closely coordinated with ANCA-WR and Rep. Sanford, and while
the Armenian side had long known about the hearing, the Turkish side knew of
the meeting less than a week in advance.” As a result, only six Turks attended
the hearing (five from Houston and one from Dallas), while “a large
crowd from the Armenian side was present. Also present [at TIAC] as an
‘observer’ was Rep. Sanford.” Demirmen expresses his regret that only four
Turks, including himself, testified in committee, whereas 21 Armenians had
testified. “The Armenian side ended up having five times more chances to
present its case than the Turkish side. Thus the Armenian side dominated not
only in terms of ‘presence’ in the hearing, but also in the testimonies given,”
Demirmen admitted. “Among those who testified for the Armenian side were
representatives from the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission, and Houston’s Holocaust
Museum,” Demirmen
reported. In addition, “hundreds of letters were emailed to state legislators.
Many more phone calls were made by the Armenian community.”
“the hearing was closely coordinated with ANCA-WR and Rep. Sanford, and while
the Armenian side had long known about the hearing, the Turkish side knew of
the meeting less than a week in advance.” As a result, only six Turks attended
the hearing (five from Houston and one from Dallas), while “a large
crowd from the Armenian side was present. Also present [at TIAC] as an
‘observer’ was Rep. Sanford.” Demirmen expresses his regret that only four
Turks, including himself, testified in committee, whereas 21 Armenians had
testified. “The Armenian side ended up having five times more chances to
present its case than the Turkish side. Thus the Armenian side dominated not
only in terms of ‘presence’ in the hearing, but also in the testimonies given,”
Demirmen admitted. “Among those who testified for the Armenian side were
representatives from the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission, and Houston’s Holocaust
Museum,” Demirmen
reported. In addition, “hundreds of letters were emailed to state legislators.
Many more phone calls were made by the Armenian community.”
Among the objections raised
by Turks who testified against the Resolution, were: 1) the “impropriety of
Texas legislators to intervene in matters affecting U.S. foreign policy, 2) the
damage the bill could do to trade relations between Texas and Turkey, 3) the
divisive aspect of the resolution, and not the least, 4) the fact that the
resolution is defamatory toward Texas residents of Turkish heritage,” Demirmen
complained.
by Turks who testified against the Resolution, were: 1) the “impropriety of
Texas legislators to intervene in matters affecting U.S. foreign policy, 2) the
damage the bill could do to trade relations between Texas and Turkey, 3) the
divisive aspect of the resolution, and not the least, 4) the fact that the
resolution is defamatory toward Texas residents of Turkish heritage,” Demirmen
complained.
None of these
objections made an impact on the TIAC members who approved the Resolution
unanimously on April 24. The Texas House took up the Resolution on May 19
approving it with 137 yes votes (eight members were absent and five abstained).
objections made an impact on the TIAC members who approved the Resolution
unanimously on April 24. The Texas House took up the Resolution on May 19
approving it with 137 yes votes (eight members were absent and five abstained).
In utter despair, Demirmen
describes the outcome as “a feat masterminded by ANCA-WR and endorsed by the
Texas House of Representatives. While the resolution has no legal force, for
all practical purposes, and for the public at large, it was a declaration
finding Ottoman Turks guilty of a heinous crime.”
describes the outcome as “a feat masterminded by ANCA-WR and endorsed by the
Texas House of Representatives. While the resolution has no legal force, for
all practical purposes, and for the public at large, it was a declaration
finding Ottoman Turks guilty of a heinous crime.”
Demirmen
acknowledges that “the Turkish response, at least at the grassroots level, to
HR-191, was feeble. … Turks are no match to Armenians on activism on the
‘genocide’ issue…. The Turkish side has only itself to blame for its lethargy
and passivity.”
acknowledges that “the Turkish response, at least at the grassroots level, to
HR-191, was feeble. … Turks are no match to Armenians on activism on the
‘genocide’ issue…. The Turkish side has only itself to blame for its lethargy
and passivity.”
The Turkish activist
concludes his article by blaming the ATA-Houston (American Turkish Association)
for not bothering to oppose HR-191. He calls the group, “the
happy-hour-conscious association, founded in 1979, was not interested in the
Armenian issue….”
concludes his article by blaming the ATA-Houston (American Turkish Association)
for not bothering to oppose HR-191. He calls the group, “the
happy-hour-conscious association, founded in 1979, was not interested in the
Armenian issue….”
Even though Demirmen blames
Texas Turks for their inactivity, there is actually only one reason why the
Resolution was adopted: Because it tells the truth! The State of Texas finally
acknowledged the historical fact of the Armenian Genocide!
Texas Turks for their inactivity, there is actually only one reason why the
Resolution was adopted: Because it tells the truth! The State of Texas finally
acknowledged the historical fact of the Armenian Genocide!
*******************************************************************************************************
2 – China
Breaks Ground on New Embassy in Yerevan
Breaks Ground on New Embassy in Yerevan
YEREVAN (RFE/RL)—China officially launched the construction of a
new and much bigger building for its embassy in Armenia on Aug. 9 in what a senior
Chinese diplomat described as another sign of deepening relations between the
two nations.
new and much bigger building for its embassy in Armenia on Aug. 9 in what a senior
Chinese diplomat described as another sign of deepening relations between the
two nations.
Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, Yerevan’s Mayor Taron Markarian and China’s visiting Assistant Foreign
Minister Li Huilai broke ground on the site of the 40,000-square-meter embassy
compound that should be completed by the end of 2019. Officials said that it
will be the second largest Chinese diplomatic mission in the former Soviet Union.
Minister Li Huilai broke ground on the site of the 40,000-square-meter embassy
compound that should be completed by the end of 2019. Officials said that it
will be the second largest Chinese diplomatic mission in the former Soviet Union.
“This is a great and joyful event,” the Chinese
ambassador in Yerevan,
Tian Erlong, told reporters at the ground-breaking ceremony. “The Chinese
Embassy in Armenia will have
a new building in Armenia.”
ambassador in Yerevan,
Tian Erlong, told reporters at the ground-breaking ceremony. “The Chinese
Embassy in Armenia will have
a new building in Armenia.”
“China
will be better represented in this country. This is logical because the scale
and nature of our cooperation are rapidly developing, and this obviously
requires more efforts, more human resources and, therefore, a larger building,”
he said.
will be better represented in this country. This is logical because the scale
and nature of our cooperation are rapidly developing, and this obviously
requires more efforts, more human resources and, therefore, a larger building,”
he said.
Meeting with Nalbandian earlier in the day, Li
reportedly said Beijing would like to “further
deepen the dynamically deepening partnership with Armenia.” “The unprecedentedly
high-level relationship and friendship between China
and Armenia
are based on sincerity and mutual respect,” the Armenian Foreign Ministry
quoted him as saying.
reportedly said Beijing would like to “further
deepen the dynamically deepening partnership with Armenia.” “The unprecedentedly
high-level relationship and friendship between China
and Armenia
are based on sincerity and mutual respect,” the Armenian Foreign Ministry
quoted him as saying.
According to a ministry statement, Nalbandian
told Li that close relations with China
are one of Yerevan’s
foreign policy priorities.
told Li that close relations with China
are one of Yerevan’s
foreign policy priorities.
The statement added that the two men discussed
efforts to boost bilateral commerce and the situation in the region. Nalbandian
was reported to praise China’s
“balanced position” on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
efforts to boost bilateral commerce and the situation in the region. Nalbandian
was reported to praise China’s
“balanced position” on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping and his Armenian
counterpart Serzh Sarkisian agreed to deepen ties between their nations when
then they met in Beijing
in 2015. In a joint statement, they noted “mutual understanding on issues
relating to pivotal interests and concerns of the two countries.”
counterpart Serzh Sarkisian agreed to deepen ties between their nations when
then they met in Beijing
in 2015. In a joint statement, they noted “mutual understanding on issues
relating to pivotal interests and concerns of the two countries.”
According to Armenian government data,
Chinese-Armenian trade rose by 35 percent to $243 million in the first half of
this year, making China Armenia’s third largest trading partner after Russia
and the European Union.
Chinese-Armenian trade rose by 35 percent to $243 million in the first half of
this year, making China Armenia’s third largest trading partner after Russia
and the European Union.
China
also seems interested in stepping up military cooperation with Armenia.
A top Chinese military official, Rear Admiral Guan Youfei, visited Yerevan in April, holding
talks with Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan and the chief of the Armenian army’s
General Staff, General Movses Hakobyan. The Armenian Defense Ministry said they
reached “agreements on expanding cooperation and implementing a number of
mutually beneficial projects in the area of defense.”
also seems interested in stepping up military cooperation with Armenia.
A top Chinese military official, Rear Admiral Guan Youfei, visited Yerevan in April, holding
talks with Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan and the chief of the Armenian army’s
General Staff, General Movses Hakobyan. The Armenian Defense Ministry said they
reached “agreements on expanding cooperation and implementing a number of
mutually beneficial projects in the area of defense.”
****************************************************************************************************
3 – Danny
Tarkanian to Run for US
Tarkanian to Run for US
Senate
Seat Held by Dean Heller
Seat Held by Dean Heller
By Sean Whaley and
Colton
Lochhead
Lochhead
LAS VEGAS, (Las Vegas Revie2-Journal) – Frequent
candidate Danny Tarkanian said Tuesday he will challenge fellow Republican Dean
Heller, Nevada’s vulnerable incumbent senator, in 2018.
candidate Danny Tarkanian said Tuesday he will challenge fellow Republican Dean
Heller, Nevada’s vulnerable incumbent senator, in 2018.
In a statement announcing his candidacy,
Tarkanian said Heller “turned his back on us.”
Tarkanian said Heller “turned his back on us.”
“I think Dean Heller’s changed his position on
so many different votes that he’s lost so much credibility with the voters,”
Tarkanian said in an interview with the Review-Journal. “He keeps breaking his
promise to voters in Nevada.
They feel they can’t trust him anymore.”
so many different votes that he’s lost so much credibility with the voters,”
Tarkanian said in an interview with the Review-Journal. “He keeps breaking his
promise to voters in Nevada.
They feel they can’t trust him anymore.”
Heller’s campaign dismissed Tarkanian as a
“perennial candidate.”
“perennial candidate.”
Tarkanian’s announcement sets up a tough primary
battle with Heller, who has faced recent pressure from both Democrat and
Republican groups. U.S. Rep. Jacky Rosen, a Democrat, also
wants the seat.
battle with Heller, who has faced recent pressure from both Democrat and
Republican groups. U.S. Rep. Jacky Rosen, a Democrat, also
wants the seat.
Heller was considered vulnerable before
Tarkanian announced his intentions, partly due to the Senate’s failed attempts
to repeal the Affordable Care Act, also called Obamacare.
Tarkanian announced his intentions, partly due to the Senate’s failed attempts
to repeal the Affordable Care Act, also called Obamacare.
After pushing for most of his senate career to
repeal the health care law, Heller changed his approach in June, when joined
Gov. Brian Sandoval to publicly oppose a proposal to repeal Obamacare. The move
sparked the America First Policies super PAC, which is run by President Donald
Trump’s former campaign advisers, to launch a $1 million ad campaign against
him the next day.
repeal the health care law, Heller changed his approach in June, when joined
Gov. Brian Sandoval to publicly oppose a proposal to repeal Obamacare. The move
sparked the America First Policies super PAC, which is run by President Donald
Trump’s former campaign advisers, to launch a $1 million ad campaign against
him the next day.
That ad campaign was cut short, but during a
July meeting in which Trump attempted to persuade GOP senators to repeal
Obamacare, the president issued a not-so-veiled threat to Heller.
July meeting in which Trump attempted to persuade GOP senators to repeal
Obamacare, the president issued a not-so-veiled threat to Heller.
Trump, sitting next to Heller, remarked “He
wants to remain a senator, doesn’t he?” as Heller grinned.
wants to remain a senator, doesn’t he?” as Heller grinned.
Despite voting in line with his party for the
for the Senate’s so-called “skinny repeal,” Nevada voters are unhappy with Heller,
according to recent polls.
for the Senate’s so-called “skinny repeal,” Nevada voters are unhappy with Heller,
according to recent polls.
A survey by Public Policy Polling showed that 22 percent approve
of Heller’s job performance, compared to 55 percent who disapproved.
of Heller’s job performance, compared to 55 percent who disapproved.
Strategic National, a Republican-leaning
consulting firm, reported that Heller’s approval rating among Nevada
Republicans is 31 percent, according to The Daily Caller. That poll also found that 43
percent of Nevada GOP voters disapprove of Heller.
consulting firm, reported that Heller’s approval rating among Nevada
Republicans is 31 percent, according to The Daily Caller. That poll also found that 43
percent of Nevada GOP voters disapprove of Heller.
The Strategic National poll also pitted Heller
and Tarkanian against each other, with 38 percent support to Heller and 34
percent to Tarkanian. The results fell within the poll’s 4.4 percent margin of
error.
and Tarkanian against each other, with 38 percent support to Heller and 34
percent to Tarkanian. The results fell within the poll’s 4.4 percent margin of
error.
The Senate GOP’s campaign arm released a
statement soon after Tarkanian announced his run, saying it stands firmly with Nevada’s senior senator.
Heller was appointed to the Senate in 2011 and won re-election in 2012.
statement soon after Tarkanian announced his run, saying it stands firmly with Nevada’s senior senator.
Heller was appointed to the Senate in 2011 and won re-election in 2012.
Tarkanian with Trump
In a statement, Tarkanian said he is “proudly on
the team of President Trump,” and supports Trump’s policies to repeal
Obamacare, end sanctuary cities and defund Planned Parenthood.
the team of President Trump,” and supports Trump’s policies to repeal
Obamacare, end sanctuary cities and defund Planned Parenthood.
Tarkanian accused Heller of helping Hillary
Clinton win Nevada
last year by being a “Never Trumper,” and blasted him for his stances on the
GOP’s multiple pushes to repeal Obamacare.
Clinton win Nevada
last year by being a “Never Trumper,” and blasted him for his stances on the
GOP’s multiple pushes to repeal Obamacare.
Tarkanian’s history
Tarkanian, the son of the legendary UNLV
basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian, is a businessman and attorney who has run
unsuccessfully for secretary of state, state senate and the U.S. House and
Senate. He won the Republican nomination in four of those five runs.
basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian, is a businessman and attorney who has run
unsuccessfully for secretary of state, state senate and the U.S. House and
Senate. He won the Republican nomination in four of those five runs.
He did not make the general election in 2011 —
when he last ran for U.S. Senate.
when he last ran for U.S. Senate.
Tarkanian lost that GOP primary, coming in third
to former state Sen. Sue Lowden and eventual nominee Sharron Angle. Angle went
on to lose to Harry Reid in the general election.
to former state Sen. Sue Lowden and eventual nominee Sharron Angle. Angle went
on to lose to Harry Reid in the general election.
**********************************************************************************************
4 – Portantino Urges Caruso Holdings
Reconsideration
Reconsideration
In Genocide Documentary Billboard
Prohibition
Prohibition
GLENDALE
– State Senator Anthony J. Portantino has submitted a letter to Caruso
Affiliated Holdings urging the company to reconsider its decision and allow
public advertising for the Armenian Genocide and Human Rights Documentary
Architects of Denial. Reports have pegged politics as the explanation for
the Caruso Affiliated decision not to feature the film in an outdoor billboard
advertisement.
– State Senator Anthony J. Portantino has submitted a letter to Caruso
Affiliated Holdings urging the company to reconsider its decision and allow
public advertising for the Armenian Genocide and Human Rights Documentary
Architects of Denial. Reports have pegged politics as the explanation for
the Caruso Affiliated decision not to feature the film in an outdoor billboard
advertisement.
“I thought to myself that Hollywood has long-celebrated thought
provoking and hard-edged filmmaking that stimulates conversations about
historical events. It seems like labeling Art as ‘too political’ was an
odd reason to deny the appropriate free _expression_ of a historical
documentary. As a former filmmaker and current State Senator it was
important for me to share my concerns and urge reconsideration,” commented
Portantino.
provoking and hard-edged filmmaking that stimulates conversations about
historical events. It seems like labeling Art as ‘too political’ was an
odd reason to deny the appropriate free _expression_ of a historical
documentary. As a former filmmaker and current State Senator it was
important for me to share my concerns and urge reconsideration,” commented
Portantino.
“I’m hopeful that my letter will have an impact
by highlighting the strong legacy and celebration of our state’s artistic
freedom, California’s
legacy of leadership for Genocide recognition and the importance of proactively
appreciating our Armenian American neighbors. The example set by the
State of California
should be an inspiration for our corporate partners to follow,” concluded
Portantino.
by highlighting the strong legacy and celebration of our state’s artistic
freedom, California’s
legacy of leadership for Genocide recognition and the importance of proactively
appreciating our Armenian American neighbors. The example set by the
State of California
should be an inspiration for our corporate partners to follow,” concluded
Portantino.
Portantino represents the 25th Senate District
which is home to the largest Armenian American Community in any legislative
district in the country. He is also a former filmmaker. Earlier in
the year, he successfully included funding for Armenian Genocide curriculum
implementation and the Armenian
American Museum
in the California State Budget signed by Governor Brown. He chairs the
California State Senate Select Committee on California,
Armenia
and Artsakh Trade, Art and Cultural Exchange.
which is home to the largest Armenian American Community in any legislative
district in the country. He is also a former filmmaker. Earlier in
the year, he successfully included funding for Armenian Genocide curriculum
implementation and the Armenian
American Museum
in the California State Budget signed by Governor Brown. He chairs the
California State Senate Select Committee on California,
Armenia
and Artsakh Trade, Art and Cultural Exchange.
***************************************************************************************************
5 – Meeting
at Armenian Consulate to
at Armenian Consulate to
Lead
Off a Global Health Initiative
Off a Global Health Initiative
LOS ANGELES – A formal meeting between the
Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) Executive Board, led by Raffi
Tachdjian, MD, MPH and Prof. Armen Muradyan Rector of Mkhitar Heratsi Yerevan
State Medical University (YSMU) and former Health Minister of The Republic of
Armenia, was held at the Armenian Consulate in Glendale. The meeting was facilitated by Dr.
Shant Shekherdimian Pediatric surgeon at UCLA Health.
Armenian American Medical Society (AAMS) Executive Board, led by Raffi
Tachdjian, MD, MPH and Prof. Armen Muradyan Rector of Mkhitar Heratsi Yerevan
State Medical University (YSMU) and former Health Minister of The Republic of
Armenia, was held at the Armenian Consulate in Glendale. The meeting was facilitated by Dr.
Shant Shekherdimian Pediatric surgeon at UCLA Health.
This visionary and impactful meeting took place
at the Armenian consulate in the presence of the Deputy General Consul of
Armenia Valery Mkrtumyan. The primary objective of this meeting was to discuss
collaboration between AAMS and YSMU. The plan for this collaboration and AAMS’s
goal is to foster a new era of communication and sharing of ideas, to increase the
school’s impact both scientifically and altruistically in order to become a
model system to be exemplified by other countries and healthcare systems.
at the Armenian consulate in the presence of the Deputy General Consul of
Armenia Valery Mkrtumyan. The primary objective of this meeting was to discuss
collaboration between AAMS and YSMU. The plan for this collaboration and AAMS’s
goal is to foster a new era of communication and sharing of ideas, to increase the
school’s impact both scientifically and altruistically in order to become a
model system to be exemplified by other countries and healthcare systems.
The parties reached concrete goals to set an
outline that looks to assist, not just the students both here in the diaspora
and in Yerevan, but to lay the foundation to strengthen the impact the school
will haveand to make YSMU one of the leading schools in the world.
outline that looks to assist, not just the students both here in the diaspora
and in Yerevan, but to lay the foundation to strengthen the impact the school
will haveand to make YSMU one of the leading schools in the world.
The AAMS plans on fostering this long distance
relationship by growing and cultivating students, professors, faculty and a
complete system for health. The vision is to create a self-sustaining system of
healthcare to not only serve the people but to be a role-model for other
countries and systems worldwide. This
commitment serves to strengthen YSMU’s world ranking, and to not only help
students succeed but create exchange programs in order for the science,
knowledge and information to flow not only from teacher to student but through
multiple channels worldwide, consistently.
relationship by growing and cultivating students, professors, faculty and a
complete system for health. The vision is to create a self-sustaining system of
healthcare to not only serve the people but to be a role-model for other
countries and systems worldwide. This
commitment serves to strengthen YSMU’s world ranking, and to not only help
students succeed but create exchange programs in order for the science,
knowledge and information to flow not only from teacher to student but through
multiple channels worldwide, consistently.
“We had a very productive meeting with Professor
Armen Muradyan. By having these
colleagues in Yerevan we will be able to work closely and forge a path forward
with a solid outline and solid roles to be partitioned off and to eventually
come together with a bigger picture than we envision now that will lead to a superb entity and union
with the two parties involved. Through this cooperative effort we hope that
today’s meeting will define our roles within our respective medical
organizations and put together this quilt of information in order to create
self-sustaining system of healthcare. Tonight’s meeting was an excellent start
to make this vision and to make positive and impactful changes” said Dr. Raffi
Tachdjian.
Armen Muradyan. By having these
colleagues in Yerevan we will be able to work closely and forge a path forward
with a solid outline and solid roles to be partitioned off and to eventually
come together with a bigger picture than we envision now that will lead to a superb entity and union
with the two parties involved. Through this cooperative effort we hope that
today’s meeting will define our roles within our respective medical
organizations and put together this quilt of information in order to create
self-sustaining system of healthcare. Tonight’s meeting was an excellent start
to make this vision and to make positive and impactful changes” said Dr. Raffi
Tachdjian.
*****************************************************************************************************
6 – ‘The
Sandcastle Girls’ Becomes
Sandcastle Girls’ Becomes
San Diego’s 2017 One Book
SAN
DIEGO, CA – KPBS last
week announced the 2017 One Book, One San Diego book selection, “The Sandcastle
Girls” by Chris Bohjalian, the critically acclaimed novelist whose books
frequently make the New York Times best-seller list.
DIEGO, CA – KPBS last
week announced the 2017 One Book, One San Diego book selection, “The Sandcastle
Girls” by Chris Bohjalian, the critically acclaimed novelist whose books
frequently make the New York Times best-seller list.
“I am deeply honored by the selection,”
Bohjalian said. “San Diego
is a wonderful reading community. I’ve made appearances there off and on over
the years, and I’ve always been dazzled by the bookstores and the libraries and
the readers.”
Bohjalian said. “San Diego
is a wonderful reading community. I’ve made appearances there off and on over
the years, and I’ve always been dazzled by the bookstores and the libraries and
the readers.”
One
Book, One San Diego is a community-wide reading program in its 11th season and
includes more than 20 community partners. Started in 2006 by KPBS, along with
the San Diego Public Library, the program encourages everyone in the region to
read and discuss the same book.
Book, One San Diego is a community-wide reading program in its 11th season and
includes more than 20 community partners. Started in 2006 by KPBS, along with
the San Diego Public Library, the program encourages everyone in the region to
read and discuss the same book.
Bohjalian
will speak here on Sept. 12 and 13, the first of many One Book events held by
KPBS and community partners that will run through December. KPBS will give away
100 copies of Bohjalian’s book at the inaugural San Diego Festival of Books,
organized by The San Diego Union-Tribune in partnership with KPBS, at Liberty
Station on Aug. 26. Bohjalian’s novel, a multi-generational tale that spans
nearly 100 years, is initially set in Syria during World War I and
focuses on the Armenian Genocide.
will speak here on Sept. 12 and 13, the first of many One Book events held by
KPBS and community partners that will run through December. KPBS will give away
100 copies of Bohjalian’s book at the inaugural San Diego Festival of Books,
organized by The San Diego Union-Tribune in partnership with KPBS, at Liberty
Station on Aug. 26. Bohjalian’s novel, a multi-generational tale that spans
nearly 100 years, is initially set in Syria during World War I and
focuses on the Armenian Genocide.
“These
days it is very important for me to tell people that I am the grandson of two
Middle Eastern immigrants,” Bohjalian said. “We are a nation of refugees and
immigrants. The novel is set in Aleppo — yes,
that Aleppo
that has broken all of our hearts the last five years — and the city as it
appears in the novel exists now only in romance and memory.”
days it is very important for me to tell people that I am the grandson of two
Middle Eastern immigrants,” Bohjalian said. “We are a nation of refugees and
immigrants. The novel is set in Aleppo — yes,
that Aleppo
that has broken all of our hearts the last five years — and the city as it
appears in the novel exists now only in romance and memory.”
KPBS
General Manager Tom Karlo said that One Book is one of his favorite KPBS
community engagement events.
General Manager Tom Karlo said that One Book is one of his favorite KPBS
community engagement events.
Linda
Ball is a KPBS staff member.
Ball is a KPBS staff member.
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7 – Aznavour
to Receive
to Receive
A
Star on Hollywood’s
Star on Hollywood’s
‘ Walk
of Fame’ Aug. 24
of Fame’ Aug. 24
HOLLYWOOD,
(Sherbrooktimes) – The legend of French music, Charles Aznavour, at 93
years, will finally receive his star on the Walk of fame of Hollywood, the
“Walk of Fame”, said the agency, which assigns them.
(Sherbrooktimes) – The legend of French music, Charles Aznavour, at 93
years, will finally receive his star on the Walk of fame of Hollywood, the
“Walk of Fame”, said the agency, which assigns them.
“The
chamber of commerce of Hollywood is proud to announce that the legendary artist
Charles Aznavour will receive the 2618e star on the walk of Fame on August 24”,
it said. It will be located on the famous Hollywood
boulevard, in front of a historic theatre of Los Angeles dedicated to musicals,
the Pantages.
chamber of commerce of Hollywood is proud to announce that the legendary artist
Charles Aznavour will receive the 2618e star on the walk of Fame on August 24”,
it said. It will be located on the famous Hollywood
boulevard, in front of a historic theatre of Los Angeles dedicated to musicals,
the Pantages.
“Charles Aznavour is a popular artist known
around the world and loved by millions of fans of all generations,” said Ana
Martinez, producer of the ceremonies on the “Walk of Fame”.
around the world and loved by millions of fans of all generations,” said Ana
Martinez, producer of the ceremonies on the “Walk of Fame”.
The one who has been declared by a poll from CNN
and Time, in 1998, the “singer of varieties, the most important of the 20th
century”, ahead of icons such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Frank Sinatra,
has sold over 180 million records and written 1300 songs in multiple languages.
and Time, in 1998, the “singer of varieties, the most important of the 20th
century”, ahead of icons such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Frank Sinatra,
has sold over 180 million records and written 1300 songs in multiple languages.
Shahnourh Varinag Aznavourian his real name,
born in Paris of Armenian parents, and became one of the most ardent champions
of the Armenian diaspora, received in the fall of the image of the star, which will be this
time formally cemented in place on the “Walk of Fame” next week.
born in Paris of Armenian parents, and became one of the most ardent champions
of the Armenian diaspora, received in the fall of the image of the star, which will be this
time formally cemented in place on the “Walk of Fame” next week.
“I come to Hollywood
for years, I’ve worked a lot in the United States,
because (…) the country of the “show business”, this is America,” he declared to the AFP.
The author and interpreter of The Bohemian, or My Grief is particularly popular
in Los Angeles
and the surrounding area where the largest Armenian community in the Diaspora
lives.
for years, I’ve worked a lot in the United States,
because (…) the country of the “show business”, this is America,” he declared to the AFP.
The author and interpreter of The Bohemian, or My Grief is particularly popular
in Los Angeles
and the surrounding area where the largest Armenian community in the Diaspora
lives.
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8 – Armenians
Liberated
Liberated
From
ISIS in Raqqa
ISIS in Raqqa
By
Syrian Forces
Syrian Forces
ISTANBUL (Agos) –
Syrian democratic forces have liberated a group of Armenians from ISIS in Raqqa on August 8.
Syrian democratic forces have liberated a group of Armenians from ISIS in Raqqa on August 8.
Saws Karabedyan, one of the liberated women,
told Ara News that the ISIS terrorists forced
them to wear headscarves keeping their faces open to differ from the Muslim
women.
told Ara News that the ISIS terrorists forced
them to wear headscarves keeping their faces open to differ from the Muslim
women.
Another woman, Karadij Karadjian mentioned
that she had to pay taxes to the ISIS.
that she had to pay taxes to the ISIS.
“It is as if we were born anew today”, she told
Ara News.
Ara News.
After the seizure of Raqqa by the ISIS some of the local Christians moved to Hasakah, which
is under the Kurdish control, while the others remain in Raqqa.
is under the Kurdish control, while the others remain in Raqqa.
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9 – AEF
to Honor Long-Time Board Member, Neshan Peroomian
to Honor Long-Time Board Member, Neshan Peroomian
GLENDALE
– The Armenian Educational Foundation (AEF) will honor long-time Board member,
Neshan Peroomian, at AEF’s sold -out event to be held at the home of Al and
Diane Cabraloff on September 10.
– The Armenian Educational Foundation (AEF) will honor long-time Board member,
Neshan Peroomian, at AEF’s sold -out event to be held at the home of Al and
Diane Cabraloff on September 10.
AEF will recognize Peroomian for his four
decades of dedicated and exemplary service, including 36 years on the Board of
Directors and as past president. In his
honor, AEF has established a four-year full tuition scholarship for students
attending universities in Armenia
and Artsakh. Neshan and his wife Dr.
Rubina Peroomian have graciously sponsored an additional scholarship
decades of dedicated and exemplary service, including 36 years on the Board of
Directors and as past president. In his
honor, AEF has established a four-year full tuition scholarship for students
attending universities in Armenia
and Artsakh. Neshan and his wife Dr.
Rubina Peroomian have graciously sponsored an additional scholarship
AEF President Vahe Hacopian stated, “A board member must meet one of the three “D”
requirements- – doer, donor, or door opener”. Neshan meets and surpasses
all three “Ds”. He has been one of the most active AEF doer-members; he
has been a very generous donor; and has introduced numerous individuals who
have in turn, become supporters of AEF.
I join the Board of Directors in congratulating and thanking Neshan for
his four decades of service.”
requirements- – doer, donor, or door opener”. Neshan meets and surpasses
all three “Ds”. He has been one of the most active AEF doer-members; he
has been a very generous donor; and has introduced numerous individuals who
have in turn, become supporters of AEF.
I join the Board of Directors in congratulating and thanking Neshan for
his four decades of service.”
Peroomian has participated in many successful
AEF educational projects. Beginning in 1988, after the devastating earthquake,
Peroomian assumed leadership in constructing new homes, sponsored by the
Armenian Relief Society, in Grashen
Village. He saw the
need for a school and kindergarten and approached AEF for help. The AEF
Board immediately raised the necessary funds for construction of the new school
and Elise Merdinian’s generous donation, in memory of her sister, covered the
cost of building the kindergarten.
Peroomian supervised both projects to successful completion.
AEF educational projects. Beginning in 1988, after the devastating earthquake,
Peroomian assumed leadership in constructing new homes, sponsored by the
Armenian Relief Society, in Grashen
Village. He saw the
need for a school and kindergarten and approached AEF for help. The AEF
Board immediately raised the necessary funds for construction of the new school
and Elise Merdinian’s generous donation, in memory of her sister, covered the
cost of building the kindergarten.
Peroomian supervised both projects to successful completion.
For the past 20 years, Peroomian has been
involved and supervised approximately 200 school renovation projects- the
majority of these renovations being in Armenia’s border villages, Artsakh
and Javakhk. He selected the schools, received Board approval, solicited
bids, negotiated and signed the contracts, and supervised the construction to
completion. Peroomian authorized payments for each phase of construction,
before AEF Treasurer paid the contractor. As with all AEF members, AEF did
not reimburse Peroomian for his expenses, including travel to Armenia.
involved and supervised approximately 200 school renovation projects- the
majority of these renovations being in Armenia’s border villages, Artsakh
and Javakhk. He selected the schools, received Board approval, solicited
bids, negotiated and signed the contracts, and supervised the construction to
completion. Peroomian authorized payments for each phase of construction,
before AEF Treasurer paid the contractor. As with all AEF members, AEF did
not reimburse Peroomian for his expenses, including travel to Armenia.
“When I visited my grandfather’s birthplace, Issahakyan Village, I noticed the dire condition of
the school, which had over 100 students. The school needed a complete
renovation, including a new roof, windows, waterproofing, etc,” said AEF Board
member and former President, Al Cabraloff. “Upon my return, I contacted Neshan,
who immediately visited the school, took along contractors, received three bids
and negotiated the final contract. I was able to raise the necessary
funds to cover all of the cost of construction and we had a grand opening with
close to 100 friends and relatives from Southern
California. Diane and I extend our heartfelt thanks to
Neshan for his unwavering dedication to get the job done; and we are especially
pleased that AEF will honor Neshan at our home,” Cabraloff said.
the school, which had over 100 students. The school needed a complete
renovation, including a new roof, windows, waterproofing, etc,” said AEF Board
member and former President, Al Cabraloff. “Upon my return, I contacted Neshan,
who immediately visited the school, took along contractors, received three bids
and negotiated the final contract. I was able to raise the necessary
funds to cover all of the cost of construction and we had a grand opening with
close to 100 friends and relatives from Southern
California. Diane and I extend our heartfelt thanks to
Neshan for his unwavering dedication to get the job done; and we are especially
pleased that AEF will honor Neshan at our home,” Cabraloff said.
Peroomian is well known in the community having
served on numerous organizations, including Armenian Cultural Foundation,
Armenian National Committee, Pasadena Monument Committee, and Armenian-American
Museum, to name a few.
served on numerous organizations, including Armenian Cultural Foundation,
Armenian National Committee, Pasadena Monument Committee, and Armenian-American
Museum, to name a few.
AEF was established in 1950 to provide financial
assistance to Armenia
students and educational institutions. For more information, please visit
aefweb.org or contact the AEF office at aef@aefweb.org or
818-242-4154.
assistance to Armenia
students and educational institutions. For more information, please visit
aefweb.org or contact the AEF office at aef@aefweb.org or
818-242-4154.
********************************************************************************************************
California Courier Online provides viewers of
the Armenian News News Service with a few of the articles in this week's issue of The
California Courier. Letters to the
editor are encouraged through our e-mail address, califcourier@cs.com. However,
authors are requested to provide their names, addresses, and/or telephone
numbers to verify identity, if any question arises. California Courier
subscribers are requested not to use this service to change, or modify mailing
addresses. Those changes can be made through our e-mail, , or by
phone, (818) 409-0949.
the Armenian News News Service with a few of the articles in this week's issue of The
California Courier. Letters to the
editor are encouraged through our e-mail address, califcourier@cs.com. However,
authors are requested to provide their names, addresses, and/or telephone
numbers to verify identity, if any question arises. California Courier
subscribers are requested not to use this service to change, or modify mailing
addresses. Those changes can be made through our e-mail, , or by
phone, (818) 409-0949.
******************************************************************************************************