Category: 2023

Christina Pascucci and Dr. Stephan Astourian to be Honored at ANCA-WR Genocide Education Awards Luncheon

Adrine Hakobian
by Contributor

 

 March 8, 2023

 

in Community, Latest, News, Top Stories

Christina Pascucci (left) and Dr. Stephan Astourian


FOX 11’s Araksya Karapetyan to Serve as Mistress of Ceremonies
 
GLENDALE—The Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region’s Education Committee announced that Dr. Stephan H. Astourian will receive the Armenian Genocide Education Legacy award at the 6th Annual Armenian Genocide Education Awards Luncheon on Saturday, March 25 at the Legacy Ballroom at 11 a.m.

“The ANCA-WR Education Committee is proud to present Dr. Astourian with the Armenian Genocide Education Legacy Award this year,” said Taline Arsenian, Luncheon Committee Chair.

Until his retirement in July 2022, Dr. Stephan Astourian was the William Saroyan Director of the Armenian Studies Program, a program founded by him at the University of California, Berkeley, and an Associate Adjunct Professor in the Department of History for over 20 years.

Dr. Astourian’s classes at UC Berkeley have covered topics in history, comparative genocides, Diaspora studies, Armenian language, and Armenian literature and culture.

Dr. Astourian and his colleague, Dr. Myrna Douzjian, have spearheaded and kept the Armenian Studies Program alive and thriving despite lack of funding and resources that sustain small programs in educational institutions, maintaining the integrity and un-abating quality of Armenian history and language education in the Bay Area.

“Dr. Astourian has made profound contributions to academia and the Armenian community at large. We are grateful to all his years of service and it is our honor to present him with our most prestigious recognition,” continued Arsenian.

The Master of Ceremonies of the 2023 Armenian Genocide Education Awards Luncheon will be the much loved and celebrated news anchor, Araksya Karapetyian. The Emmy winning anchor of the Good Day L.A. news show of LA Fox 11  has been a vocal proponent of Armenian issues and causes and a powerful voice for Armenians and other marginalized communities through daily broadcasts that air in the second biggest city in the United States.

“Araksya is a role model for all young women. I am honored to have her as the MC for this year’s award ceremony,” said Alice Petrossian, Chair of ANCA Western Region’s Education Committee. “Karapetyan’s relentless dedication to the Armenian Cause is prevalent through her work at FOX 11, where she regularly covers issues of importance to the Armenian American community in Los Angeles, including the continued Azerbaijani aggressions against the Republics of Armenia and Artsakh.”

The recipient of the 2023 Ambassador Henry Morgenthau Sr. Courage Award is Karapetyan’s colleague at FOX 11, Emmy Award-winning journalist Christina Pasccuci. Pascucci is a licensed pilot and a humanitarian advocate who has traveled to more than 100 countries across seven continents in pursuit of the truth. She received the Journalist of the Year award by the LA Press Club in 2020.  

Christina Pascucci reporting live from Armenia in September 2022 on FOX 11

In September 2022, Pascucci traveled to the frontlines during Azerbaijan’s illegal invasion and occupation of the sovereign territories of the Republic of Armenia. During her reporting mission, Pascucci traveled to multiple cities in Armenia like Jermuk, which came under attack during her coverage, and was transformed into a ghost town when it was once a bustling resort spot.
Pascucci reported on the devastating consequences of war in towns where Armenian men, women, and children had their homes destroyed by shelling from Azerbaijani forces, and delivered those untold stories of devastation to American audiences.

“Pascucci’s ability to maneuver through an active war zone is a demonstration of her journalistic integrity and dedication to her craft,” said Alice Petrossian. “At a time when the entire world’s attention had been focused on the horrific conflict in Ukraine, Pascucci courageously captured the heart- wrenching stories of Armenian suffering and professionally delivered it to the world.”
Pascucci attributes her introduction and understanding of the Armenian Genocide to her high school Spanish teacher Delia Grigorian, once more proving the real, lasting effects of the work teachers do. 

All community members are invited to the 6th Annual Armenian Genocide Education Awards Luncheon, to show their appreciation, celebrate and honor educators for their dedication to teaching about the Armenian Genocide. This year’s luncheon is scheduled to begin at 11a.m. at Legacy Ballroom in Glendale, CA. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online. Tickets for the Awards Luncheon are running out, so please reserve your tickets immediately. For additional information about the 2023 Awards Luncheon, visit the ANCA-WR Education Committee website or call (818) 500-1918.

The Armenian National Committee of America- Western Region is a grassroots public affairs organization devoted to advancing issues of concern to the Armenian American community. For nearly a century, the ANCA-WR has served to educate, motivate and activate the Armenian American community in the Western United States on a wide range of issues.

Armenian American Museum Elevate Gala Sold Out

Emil Lazarian
by Contributor

 

 March 9, 2023

 

in Community, Latest, News, Top Stories

Tickets to the Armenian American Museum's Elevate Gala, set for March 19, have sold out


GLENDALE—The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California announced that the highly anticipated Elevate Gala is officially sold out. The signature event of the year, to be held on Sunday, March 19, is anticipated to welcome a capacity audience at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.

The Elevate Gala will celebrate the completion of the first phase of construction featuring the museum parking garage and building foundation and mark the next exciting chapter for the Armenian American Museum as the landmark center is elevated to the horizon as a destination for education, enrichment, and inspiration for generations to come.

Internationally acclaimed and award-winning entertainer Kev Orkian will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Kev Orkian is a notable actor, musician, and comedian who has earned a reputation as one of the United Kingdom’s finest entertainers.

Pacific Western Bank Vice President Relationship Manager and Armenian American Museum Board of Governors Member Diana Timuryan is serving as the Elevate Gala Chair. The Elevate Gala Committee includes Mayda Altounian, Alvard Barseghian, Angela Bedoyan, Ani Bekarian, Araxie Boyamian, Garine Depoyan, Hilda Fidanian, Aida Gharakhani, Marie Jeanne Harmandayan, Natalie Hariri, Christine Hovnanian, Tanya Kalaydjian, Maro Kasparian, Dr. Alexia Kevonian, Erika Toriz-Kurkjian, Carmen Libaridian, Margaret Mgrublian, Narine Mouradian, Aleen Orucakciel, Dzovig Zetlian, and Elizabeth Zoryan.

Major Sponsors include Donnell & Rima Cameron, Armen & Gloria Hampar Family Foundation, Avadis & Nancy Tevanian, Jack & Zarig Youredjian, Ayvazian Family Foundation, The GASKA Alliance Foundation, Anonymous, Dr. Vicken & Sossy Aharonian, Ron & Kourtni Arakelian, Bank of America, Gregory & Gina Felikian, Steve & Sandi Hampar, Nabil & Hanan Karabetian, Berdj & Mary Karapetian, Matthew & Audrey Matoesian, William McMorrow, Nora Tertzag Hampar Charitable Trust Ara & Nina Ohanian, Sarkis & Nune Sepetjian, and Isaac & Frieda Vartanian.

The Armenian American Museum is a world-class educational and cultural institution that is currently under construction on the museum campus at Glendale Central Park. The museum will offer a wide range of public programming through the Permanent Exhibition, Temporary Exhibitions, Auditorium, Learning Center, Demonstration Kitchen, Archives Center, and more.

For more information on how to contribute to the Armenian American Museum and the Elevate Gala, contact Major Gifts Director Mary Khayat at (818) 644-2073.

To learn more about the Elevate Gala, visit the Armenian American Museum website.

Tavlian Preschool & Kindergarten Celebrates 30 Years of Academic Excellence and Progress

Edgar Tavakalian
by Contributor

 

 March 9, 2023

 

in Community, Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

Tavlian Preschool & Kindergarten School Board & Director Garine Joukadarian with Tavlian Family cut the anniversary cake


PASADENA – Hundreds of supporters, parents, and community members gathered on March 4 at Noor Banquet Hall in Pasadena to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Levon & Hasmig Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten.

“The 30th anniversary of Levon & Hasmig Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten is a testament to the unwavering commitment and dedication of our teachers, staff, parents, and community,” stated Garine Joukadarian, Director of Levon and Hasmig Tavlian Preschool & Kindergarten.

Senator Portantino with School Director Garine Joukadarian Senator Portantino, Mr. & Mrs. Vahe and Nora Tavlian, School Director Garine Joukadarian

“For three decades, our school has been a cornerstone of Armenian culture and identity, instilling a sense of pride, purpose, and belonging in our children. Together, we have created a vibrant and inclusive learning community that celebrates our Armenian heritage and fosters the whole child’s development,” added Joukadarian.

School Director Garine Joukadarian, Red Group Teacher Aida Mardirossian, Kindergarten Teacher Mary Donoyan, Armenian Teacher Sandukth Boyamian, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Marine Soghomonyan, Senator Portantino, and Purple Group Teacher Lilit Alajajian

Very Rev. Zareh Sarkissian attended the 30th Anniversary Gala on behalf of Western Prelate Bishop Torkom Donoyan and read the Prelate’s message. Rev. Boghos Baltayan, the parish pastor of St. Sarkis Church, also attended and delivered the invocation. The program featured remarks on behalf of the Tavlian School Board and Director Mrs. Garine Joukadarian and included special honorees and a video presentation showcasing the progress and accomplishments of the school.

Rev. Fr. Boghos Baltayan of St. Sarkis Church and his wife, Very Rev. Fr. Zareh Sarkissian, School Director Garine Joukadarian

Rita Hovsepian, Levon & Hasmig Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten School Board Chairperson, said, “an educational institution is fundamental to our families and communities, especially during a child’s most formative years. Over the past 30 years, Tavlian has created a unique culture that serves its mission and goals to ensure each student receives a high-quality early childhood education. This has been accomplished with the resolve and commitment of our faculty and staff. Our base is strong due to the contributions of so many, including our founders, parents, donors, community organizations, faculty, and staff.”

Tavlian Preschool & Kindergarten Teachers with School Director Garine Joukadarian

The Tavlian family proudly attended the 30th Anniversary celebration and received praise for their vision, unwavering support, and encouragement of the school.  Other guests included Arlene Mouradian-Zenian from the Western Prelacy Board of Regents and a representative from Assemblymember Chris Holden’s office. Supervisor Barger provided certificates of recognition to the honorees and sponsored the teacher’s tables at the Gala. 

Senator Anthony Portantino was honored for his steadfast support of Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten. Portantino has been an ardent supporter and a longtime friend of the Armenian American community since being elected to public office. Last year, the Senator secured $250,000 from the state budget for Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten to help with renovation projects, STEAM enrichment curriculum, and technology upgrades. 

Tavlian Preschool & Kindergarten Teachers & Parent Support Committee 30th Anniversary Gala Planning Committee 

Teachers who have dedicated more than 25 years of service to the school also received special recognition and gifts of appreciation for their decades of contribution to the school’s success and nurturing generations of students. 

Aida Mardirossian, who has been teaching three-year-old students at Tavlian Preschool for 26 years, was recognized for her passion for early childhood education and her ability to create a warm and welcoming environment for her young students. Mrs. Aida is patient, creative, and attentive, and she tailors her teaching approach to meet the unique needs of each child in her class. Through her years of teaching, she has developed a strong bond with her students and their families, and her influence is evident in her students’ growth and development. 

Master of Ceremonies Tro Krikorian welcoming the guests 

Mary Donoyan, a highly experienced and dedicated Kindergarten teacher for 26 years, was recognized for her expertise in preparing her students for the transition to first grade and for her ability to instill a love of the Armenian language. Donoyan’s teaching approach centers on creating a stimulating, engaging learning environment that promotes academic and social development. Her commitment to advancing the Armenian language and culture is reflected in her teaching methods, which incorporate poetry, literature, and songs. Her impact on the Armenian preschool education system is profound, as she has influenced generations of students and teachers.

Sandoukht Boyamian, a passionate teacher for 28 years, is known for her deep love and appreciation for Armenian culture. Her passion for Armenian culture and dedication to education has made her a beloved figure at Tavlian. Boyamian’s passion for teaching and her love for her students shines through in everything she does, and she is truly an inspiration to those around her.

Marine Sogomonyan, an experienced and passionate Pre-Kindergarten teacher for 28 years, is known for her commitment to hands-on learning and her ability to make learning fun and engaging for her students. Mrs. Marine uses various innovative teaching methods to help her students explore and discover the world around them. She has a natural ability to connect with her students and create a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Mrs. Marine’s love of teaching and her enthusiasm for learning is infectious, and she inspires her students to develop a lifelong love of learning. 

Lilit Alajajian is a remarkable individual who has dedicated 30 years of her life to teaching two-year-old students at Tavlian Preschool. Despite the challenges of working with such young children, she is enthusiastic and always strives to provide her students with the best possible learning experience. Over the years, she has developed a wealth of knowledge and experience, and her teaching capabilities are inspiring. She knows how to engage and motivate her young students and can create a warm and nurturing environment that makes them feel safe and comfortable. Her creativity is truly inspiring and makes her an invaluable asset to the school. Alajajian is highly regarded within the Armenian preschool community and is considered a treasure at Tavlian.

Levon and Hasmig Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten, launched in 1992, was the brainchild of Hasmig Tavlian and was established after her passing by her proud sons Vazken, Vatche, and Vahe. The school held its first semester and class instructions with four students. Since its establishment 30 years ago, nearly 510 students have graduated.  The school is licensed by the State of California and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and offers an all-day developmentally appropriate program for children ages two through five. Currently, it serves 70 students with 16 dedicated faculty and staff.

Since its inception, Tavlian Preschool and Kindergarten has flourished throughout the decades and served generations of Armenian Americans with the highest quality education. The school plays an integral and critical role in safeguarding the Armenian language, culture, history, and traditions – and provides a safe, nurturing environment and stellar early childhood education program.

Pashinyan Says Ambush on Artsakh Police is Baku’s Way of Not Complying with ICJ Ruling

Raffi Khondkarian
by Asbarez Staff

 

 March 9, 2023

 

in Armenia, Artsakh, Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

Russian peacekeeping forces at the site of the Azerbaijani ambush on an Artsakh police vehicle


Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Thursday told his cabinet that the Azerbaijani ambush of an Artsakh Police vehicle, which left three officers dead, is Baku’s way of aborting negotiations between Azerbaijan and Artsakh.

He emphasized a statement by the Artsakh Foreign Ministry, which affirmed Stepanakert’s commitment to ongoing discussions with Azerbaijani officials and called it an “extremely important statement.”

Pashinyan stressed the need to create reliable international mechanisms for uninterrupted and institutional dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert, which he said “can become an effective guarantee for the realization of the above-mentioned international agreement.”

The prime minister also said that with Sunday’s ambush on the Artsakh police Azerbaijan is seeking to advance its false narrative of weapons and ammunition transport from Armenia to Nagorno Karabakh.

“This topic is important for Azerbaijan especially after the February 22 decision of the International Court of Justice, which unequivocally rejected Azerbaijan’s request to apply an interim measure against Armenia over alleged planting of landmines. The court’s rejection ruined the groundless accusations against Armenia about landmines, which have been on all international platforms for several months now, and this was extremely important,” Pashinyan said.

He said that Azerbaijan attempted to portray Sunday’s ambush as proof of the alleged weapons transfer, but it did not succeed because the targeted Artsakh police vehicle was leaving Stepanakert and not en-route to the Artsakh capital. Furthermore, Pashinyan said, the movements of the police vehicle were captured on Artsakh Interior Ministry cameras.

Pashinyan said that Azerbaijan used “bloody terrorism” to weave new scenarios that can be perpetuated on social media outlets, in an attempt to cover up Baku’s failure to comply with the International Court of Justice decision regarding the opening of the Lachin Corridor.

“Therefore, it becomes more and more urgent to send an international fact-finding mission to Nagorno-Karabakh and the Lachin Corridor to prevent unleashing of new aggression by Azerbaijan and the evident plotting by Azerbaijan to subject the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to ethnic cleansing and genocide, which can be seen by Baku’s failure to comply with the decisions of international courts, continued blockade of the Lachin Corridor, military provocations and acts of terrorism,” Pashinyan said.

Asbarez: Artsakh Calls for ‘Full-Fledged’ Peace Talks Through International Efforts

Emma Jilavian
by Asbarez Staff

 

 March 9, 2023

 

in Armenia, Artsakh, Featured Story, Latest, News, Top Stories

The Lachin Corridor has been blocked by Azerbaijan since Dec. 12


The Artsakh Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that it was committed to a peaceful settlement of the Artsakh-Azerbaijan conflict through “full-fledged” talks based on internationally accepted norms and mediation.

Referring to discussions between representatives of Artsakh and Azerbaijan on specific humanitarian issues, the Artsakh foreign ministry told Armenpress that such dialogue does not “replace full-fledged peace negotiations needed for a sustainable and comprehensive settlement of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict.”

“Artsakh remains committed to the peaceful settlement of the conflict through negotiations, which should be based not on the balance of military powers or legitimizing the use of force, but the norms and principles of international law, including equal rights and self-determination of peoples. The best way to protect these principles is to involve the international community in discussions with Azerbaijan,” the Artsakh foreign ministry said in response to questions posed by Armenpress.

“We have repeatedly drawn the attention of the international community to the fact that the negotiations should take place in an agreed internationally accepted format, which would provide conditions and guarantees for the parties to implement their commitments. In this regard, it is necessary, first of all, to focus efforts on the full implementation of previously reached agreements. This will be the main indicator of the good faith approach of the parties to the peace process,” explained the foreign ministry.

“Only after that, a conducive environment can be created for discussing all other issues, including those related to ensuring the security of the people of Artsakh, exercising their rights without restrictions and respecting the free _expression_ of their will. We are convinced that it is impossible to achieve a comprehensive settlement of the conflict without addressing these important issues,” the Foreign Ministry added.

“We would also like to draw the attention of the international community to the fact that, on one hand, Azerbaijan has declared its readiness for dialogue with Artsakh and, on the other, in continues to keep the people of Artsakh under siege for almost three months now, is perpetrating terrorist attacks and is putting forward maximalist demands, in an attempt to exert pressure and achieve it goals through the use or threat of force,” the Artsakh foreign ministry said.

AW: Dolma: Seeking home, in the homemade

Emil Lazarian
March 8, 2023 Lar Tabakian Food, Columns 1

Our evening in Ashan, 2017

As I watched the steam rise each time we peeked into the pot, I was back home, in the homeland. 

Her precious earth still manages to live on the soles of my shoes, and as they traveled along the unpaved road to Ashan, they climbed to the priceless stories that were shared. I was home for the first time in a long time, and an unger had invited my mother and I to dinner in his home. When we arrived, we were greeted with open arms and warm souls. There was no lack of love, affection or passion in that home, and of course, when there is company, there is a feast. Our hosts found us worthy of their finest cutlery and homemade Tuti Oghi. Genats after genats was said, in honor of our land, our struggle, our diaspora and our fallen. However, with every piece of advice given and laughter heard, there was a part of that table that remained constant: the handmade dolma, or litzk. It provided warmth and nourishment, as did the sweet sounds of Artsakh. It fed the room and fueled the fire in our hearts, to live here, remain on our land, and above all, maintain our struggle. We left the dinner with full bellies and enlightened minds, and while the people of Artsakh maintained this struggle, we as diasporans are on every corner of the Earth, doing what we can and what we must. And sometimes, when the day is too short and my mind too overwhelmed, I am back on that table, held by the warm embrace of the stuffed squash and pomegranate juice. And so I thought, “Why don’t I bring Artsakh to me?”

At first, the process seemed particularly daunting. This is the work of well-seasoned grandmothers, nothing a mere mortal such as I can take on. And so, I decided to inquire with the master herself — Etig (Etig is my grandmother, and throughout the journey of reconnecting with the meals of the motherland, her guidance will often be referenced). Although the phone call lasted over an hour, she left me with practically no information to work with. You know, a little of this, a little of that. And so, with the limited knowledge I gathered between gossip sessions, I headed to the grocery store. The whispers about how the deli meat was not sliced thin enough, the old man deciphering which can of nuts he prefers without the assistance of his wife, and the candy wrapped in the metallic, Arabic packaging – I am back in my favorite place, the Armenian market. I gathered my ingredients with subtle panic and urgency. However, I was reassured when the cashier knew exactly what I was up to. Besides, why else would you need calrose rice, zucchini and lemon? 

As I started to prepare, Etig arrived, guns blazing (dolma porelik in hand). And so it begins! Dip the end in salt so it is easier to hollow. Dissolve tomato paste in the water for better color. Please stop puncturing holes in the bottom of the vegetables! This meal was not by any means simple, straightforward or low-effort. The squash was not hollow enough. The broth had too much lemon. No matter how many onions I chopped, it was not enough. We slaved for hours, and yet, despite its complexity, there was a looming awareness I could not shake. With every pepper I chopped, I was back in Ashan, singing the hymns of the homeland, convinced the night would never end. With every sprinkling of salt, I heard the echoes of Ghazanchetsots, peering over the cliff where our most dedicated rose and ensured our liberation. There was a bitterness with each bite as I sat at my table in my house, and I was not home. And as a spoonful met the roof of my mouth, I stared at the backs of those who claim to care the most, the same backs the people of Artsakh see every day. Thousands of miles away from each other, we stare at the same backs, with the same empty promises. They shake hands and smile for photo opportunities, and we remain here, battling for each moment on our land and for our existence. And so, as I watched Etig lift the lid of the pot to allow the steam to escape, the aroma that blanketed the kitchen air was the same as it was five years ago, on a piece of land most people cannot even pronounce. We are all interlinked, and I understood at that moment that no matter who tries, whichever powers, foreign or domestic, try to eradicate us and the spirit ablaze in our hearts, we are here, laughing, singing, fighting and making dolma.

  •  Bio
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Lar Tabakian is from Los Angeles, California. She is an active member of the AYF West Pasadena “Nigol Touman” Chapter and is also involved with the ANCA and ARS. She is pursuing a degree in Middle Eastern Studies with hopes of becoming a conflict journalist. In her free time, she enjoys writing, reading Armenian history and learning new songs on her guitar.


Lowell ARF celebrates 128th anniversary of its founding

Suren Karakhanian
March 8, 2023 Guest Contributor Community News 0

HAVERHILL, Mass.—Braving the falling snow and below-freezing temperatures, more than 80 friends and supporters of the Lowell ARF and Armenian National Committee (ANC) gathered on Saturday, February 25, to enjoy an informative program, delicious dinner and warm Armenian hospitality on the occasion of the 128th anniversary of the Lowell ARF’s founding.

Held at the Ermonian Hall of the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe, the anniversary celebration of North America’s oldest ARF branch featured an inspiring talk by the church’s pastor, an informative presentation titled “Unseen Armenia” and an update of activities by the ANC of the Merrimack Valley (ANC-MV).

The night’s program began with an invocation by Rev. Father Stepan Baljian of St. Gregory Armenian Church in North Andover, followed by the singing of the US and Armenian national anthems by attendees and a reading of the ARF’s anthem, Mshag Panvor, in translation, by Master of Ceremonies and ANC-MV co-chair Ara Jeknavorian.

Carol Minasian and Stepan Dulgarian

“The Lowell gomideh, now in its 128th year, spans some six generations of members devoted to serving the Armenian people and Armenian Cause,” said Lowell ARF chairperson Stepan Dulgarian in his opening remarks, adding that the organization’s effectiveness is, in large part, dependent on the support it receives from the Armenian community.

Having led the Merrimack Valley ANC delegation to Washington, DC for Advocacy Days in February, Dulgarian stressed the importance of political activism as a critical way of protecting Armenian rights worldwide.

ARF Central Committee chair Ani Tchaghlasian welcomed supporters and congratulated the Lowell ARF and ANC for their consistently effective work year in and year out.

She highlighted the difficulties that the Armenian nation is once again facing, including the threat of genocide against the Armenians of Artsakh.

Tchaghlasian pointed out that the ARF is present and working wherever and whenever Armenian rights and interests are in danger—on the front lines of battle, literally, but also figuratively—from the halls of Congress in the US to the European Parliament and elsewhere—applying all resources at its disposal.

As an indication of the ARF’s important role, she noted that one need only go to any social media platform to see that the main target of Azerbaijanis and Turks is not the present regime in Armenia, but the ARF worldwide and its efforts to defend Armenian rights.

She called on those gathered to continue supporting the ARF and ANC in that sacred task of ensuring that Armenia and the Armenian nation have a bright future.

The featured speaker of the anniversary event was Rev. Father Vart Gyozalyan, pastor of the Armenian Apostolic Church at Hye Pointe.

In his talk titled “Current Life and Conditions in Armenia,” Father Vart underscored the resilience and perseverance of the Armenian people, who, despite centuries of hardship, continue with fierce determination and optimism to pursue the ideals of freedom and self-determination.

“For the Armenian people, the trauma of centuries of oppression, culminating with the horrific genocide of 1915-1923, only emboldened our people to have a steadfast commitment to sustaining a vibrant Armenian community life and cultural identity both in our Armenian homelands of Armenia and Artsakh and in the Diaspora,” reflected Father Vart.

Rev. Gyozalyan, originally from Armenia and appointed to his US parish by the Catholicos of All Armenians in Etchmiadzin, spoke from both personal experience and knowledge acquired through his studies at the Gevorkyan seminary in Armenia as well as US institutions of higher learning. 

Titled “Unseen Armenia: A Brief Glimpse of People, Places, Projects,” a presentation by longtime ANC activist Joe Dagdigian painted a picture of an Armenia that most visitors do not see—from small villages and their inhabitants to scenic sites that tour companies do not visit, and to cultural and religious monuments that local villagers revere but outsiders are unaware of.

Dagdigian also listed and outlined a number of projects in which Armenian citizens are taking the initiative to solve personal and societal problems.

The presentation concluded with a number of notable sites in Artsakh, some of which remain under Armenian control, others recently lost to Azerbaijan.

Flo Bahtiarian and Sylvia Mahlebjian

During an update on recent initiatives of the local ANC chapter. Jeknavorian spoke about the ANC-MV’s participation during the ANCA-ER’s Advocacy Days in Washington, DC. The ANC delegation met with US Representative Lori Trahan and the office staff of Rep. Seth Moulton and US Senators Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren to sound the alarm bells of a genocide against the Armenians of Artsakh, as well as to encourage the lawmakers to introduce measures to sanction Azerbaijan for its illegal blockade and aggression against Artsakh and the Republic of Armenia.

Jeknavorian also highlighted ongoing ANC-MV programs: in-class seminars about the Armenian Genocide at local high schools; Armenian flag raisings and proclamations issued in remembrance of the Armenian Genocide in some 25 cities and towns in the Merrimack Valley.

Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed delicious appetizers and a homemade meal prepared by the Lowell Armenian Relief Society (ARS) “Lousintak” Chapter.

ARF supporters and friends enjoyed each other’s company and the warm Armenian atmosphere created under the roof of a hospitable Armenian church.

Steve and Angele Dulgarian and Nancy Vartabedian

AYF Camp Haiastan presents summer 2023 leadership team

Ani Basmajian
March 8, 2023 Camp Haiastan Diaspora 0

FRANKLIN, Mass. — The AYF Camp Haiastan Board of Directors is pleased to announce the 2023 camp management staff.

Nairi Koroghlian (Long Island City, New York) will be the 2023 Summer Camp Director, and Ani Changelian will return to AYF Camp Haiastan this summer to direct the day camp. The Board has also selected a Program Director, a new position responsible for developing and organizing curriculum specific activities and schedules for Camp Haiastan’s programs. This role will be filled by former Summer Director Seran Tcholakian of Farmington Hills, MI.

Nairi Koroghlian

Koroghlian has a long history with the Camp, starting as a camper in the early-to-mid ’80s and then serving on staff in the early ’90s. Her love for the Camp was established through her parents Harry and Claire Kushigian. Now, she’s part of a Camp Haiastan Summer Director legacy. Her father, also known as “Baron Harry,” was a Camp Haiastan counselor from the late 1950s to the early 1960s and later served as the 1962 Summer Director when he, along with former Summer Camp Director Mesrob Odian, started the ‘History of the Camp’ lecture, which is now a mainstay ‘Hye Talk’ delivered to staff and campers every year.

Koroghlian draws upon more than 20 years of professional experience in various roles ranging from marketing to theater and film. Most recently, she has been a leader in the health and wellness industry, serving as a coach for large organizations throughout Manhattan, including Sesame Street and Weight Watchers International. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked as a volunteer crisis responder for IMALIVE.org, an organization that brings awareness to mental health and suicide prevention.

“I am thrilled to return to the ‘best place on earth’ this summer to inspire a love for our Armenian heritage for our youth and create a nurturing experience for fostering friendships and cultural pride,” expressed Koroghlian.

Koroghlian is a native of Rhode Island and a University of Rhode Island graduate. She resides in New York City with her husband Haig. The two met as campers at Camp Haiastan.

Ani Changelian

Camp Haistan is looking forward to Changelian’s return as director of the day camp. “Ani’s extensive knowledge of the Camp and her experience with children greatly benefit our youth,” stated Board chairman Hratch Najarian.

Changelian received a master’s degree in education from the New York Institute of Technology, Downing College. She lives in Bedford, Massachusetts with her husband Andrew and their two children, former campers and staff members. Changelian previously worked as a kindergarten teacher at St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School in Watertown and also served as the AYF Camp Haiastan Summer Director from 2019-2021.

Seran Tcholakian

Tcholakian, a camper for many years, is now the inaugural Program Director at Camp Haiastan. A native of New York, Tcholakian lives in Farmington Hills, Michigan with her husband Rafi and their five children, former campers and staffers. A graduate of Hunter College, Tcholakian taught for many years at the Alex and Marie Manoogian School in Dearborn. She is now a tutor and an active member of her local Armenian community through the Armenian Relief Society (ARS).

This new position will bring an increased level of attention to the Camp’s various programs and ensure that all activities are engaging for young campers. Following her recent stint as summer director (2019 – 2021), Tcholakian has proven that she understands the needs of the campers and staff to ensure a positive, developmentally appropriate and magical experience.

“We are excited to kick-off the 2023 summer season with this strong leadership team,” stated executive director Kenar Charchaflian. Serving as an AYF Camp Haiastan staff member goes beyond the reward of impacting the future youth of our community. For generations, our grounds have served as a place of opportunity to learn new skills, to build friendships and to grow professionally and individually. Staff applications are open through the 20th of March. Application deadlines are below.

March 14th – Aquatics Director, Armenian School Teacher, Lifeguard, Health Center Staff, Kitchen Staff, Summer Office Administrator
March 20th – Cabin Counselor, Day Camp Counselor, Staff In Training (SIT)

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Located in Franklin, Massachusetts, AYF Camp Haiastan, was founded in 1951 and is the oldest Armenian camp in the United States. The Camp prides itself on providing a healthy and safe experience to Armenian-American youth to help them foster their Armenian identity and establish lifelong friendships.


Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee of Connecticut announces annual program

Boris Nahapetian
March 9, 2023 Guest Contributor Announcements 0

HARTFORD, Conn. — The Armenian Genocide Commemoration Committee of Connecticut will hold its annual program in honor of the 108th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. The event will take place at the historic Connecticut House Chamber at the State Capitol (210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford).

The program will include the Martyrs’ Service, which was created in 2015 on the occasion of the centennial of the Genocide and the canonization of the Martyrs. Clergy from Armenian churches in Connecticut will participate in the service. 

The keynote speaker will be Aram Hamparian, executive director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). His talk is entitled: “Current Crisis in Artsakh-The Genocide Continues.”

A reception will follow the commemoration.




Azerbaijan threatens military action days after deadly ambush

Janet Ekmekjian
March 8, 2023 Lillian Avedian News 5

Azerbaijani armed forces have killed 21 Armenian residents of Artsakh since the end of the 2020 Artsakh War, according to Artsakh officials.

In a report released on March 8, the office of the Human Rights Defender of Artsakh said that six civilians and 15 military officials have been killed since the signature of the ceasefire agreement on November 9, 2020. The report details the most recent deadly shooting of three Artsakh police officers by Azerbaijani soldiers on March 5. 

“The ongoing blockade of Azerbaijan, as well as the regular and consistent armed attacks, aim at subjecting Artsakh to ethnic cleansing through physical and psychological intimidation, creating unbearable conditions and destroying the indigenous Armenian population of Artsakh,” the report reads. 

Vehicle shot by Azerbaijani soldiers (Artsakh Ombudsman, March 5)

Officials say Lieutenant Colonel Armen Babayan, Major Davit Danielyan and Lieutenant Ararat Gasparyan were traveling in a vehicle belonging to the Passport and Visa Department of the Police of the Republic of Artsakh on Sunday morning when they were attacked and killed by a dozen Azerbaijani armed forces. Lieutenant Davit Hovsepyan was wounded and is in intensive care after surgery. 

In its daily bulletin on March 6, the Russian peacekeeping mission in Artsakh confirmed that the Azerbaijani soldiers had instigated the shooting. The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan said that the Russian peacekeepers had “spread untruthful information.” Azerbaijani authorities say that their soldiers had opened fire in response to shooting from the Artsakh police officers. 

Vehicle damaged by gunfire (Artsakh Ombudsman, March 5)

Two days after the shooting, Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry threatened to “take resolute, necessary measures to suppress the actions” of Armenia and Artsakh. It accused Armenian military officials of traveling along an unpaved route between Stepanakert and the Lisagor village accompanied by Russian peacekeepers. Armenia’s Foreign Ministry responded that Azerbaijan was spreading “disinformation and escalation” to “create a false information basis to launch a new aggression” against Artsakh and Armenia. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan had accused the Artsakh police officers targeted in this week’s shooting of using the route to transport weapons, ammunition, military personnel and landmines from Armenia to Artsakh. Azerbaijani armed forces had been sent to the route to inspect the vehicle.   

The Armenian Foreign Ministry said that the vehicle was traveling from Stepanakert to the Hin Shen and Mets Shen villages of Artsakh. Armenian officials say there were no weapons or ammunition in the vehicle except for a service pistol. The Foreign Ministry called for an international fact-finding mission to the Lachin Corridor. 

Azerbaijani authorities have repeatedly accused Armenia of illegally transporting mines along the Lachin Corridor, the road connecting Armenia and Artsakh. On February 22, the International Court of Justice rejected a request from Azerbaijan for provisional measures ordering Armenia to stop using the Lachin Corridor for this purpose, citing insufficient evidence. 

After this week’s shooting, Azerbaijani authorities said that using a road besides the Lachin Corridor to travel between Armenia and Artsakh violates the terms of the ceasefire. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry called for the “establishment of a border checkpoint regime” along the Lachin Corridor and the “immediate withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces” from Artsakh. 

There are currently no units of the Armenian military stationed in Artsakh. Armenian authorities consider this a demand from Azerbaijan to disband the Artsakh Defense Army. 

The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry later warned that if these demands are not fulfilled, “the Azerbaijani side will have to take decisive and necessary measures to disarm and neutralize illegal gunmen.” 

Political scientist Tigran Grigoryan says that the unpaved road where the shooting took place has been used since the start of Azerbaijan’s blockade of Artsakh for “some irregular transits of individuals.” Grigoryan says the road cannot be used as an alternative to the Lachin Corridor because of its difficult terrain. Government sponsored Azerbaijani activists have closed the Lachin Corridor since December 12, placing Artsakh under blockade and creating a humanitarian crisis. 

“The aim of this attack was to deter individuals from using this passage and force Nagorno-Karabakh into accepting such Azerbaijani demands as the installation of checkpoints on the Lachin corridor,” Grigoryan tweeted. 

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has proposed the establishment of checkpoints along the Lachin Corridor. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov ruled out such checkpoints while speaking with the press on February 28. He said that the corridor must operate in compliance with the ceasefire agreement, “which means the need to ensure free movement for exclusively civilian and humanitarian cargo and civilians.” 

However, Lavrov added that it may be “possible to use technical means to remove the existing suspicions that the corridor is really used for its intended purpose,” in reference to Azerbaijan’s accusations that the corridor is used to transport mines and weapons. 

European External Action Service (EEAS) said that the EU “deplores the outbreak of violence yesterday on the Karabakh Line of Contact. “We urge all stakeholders to show restraint in order to prevent any further actions which could further undermine regional stability and threaten the peace process,” the EEAS said in a statement. 

The Artsakh Foreign Ministry noted that the attack took place days after a March 1 meeting between representatives from Artsakh and Azerbaijan since the start of the blockade. 

“Through its actions, Baku openly demonstrates its rejection of negotiations as a means of finding solutions to any issues,” the Artsakh Foreign Ministry said. 

Lusine Avanesyan, spokesperson for the Artsakh president, said that the representatives discussed “humanitarian and infrastructural issues,” specifically the restoration of movement along the Lachin Corridor, during meetings on February 25 and March 1. The Azerbaijani side said that the representatives discussed the “reintegration of Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region into the Republic of Azerbaijan,” which Artsakh authorities denied.  

Artsakh President Arayik Harutyunyan said during a Security Council meeting on March 6 that the meetings “did not give results.” Harutyunyan said that, after the meetings, Azerbaijani officials conveyed through private channels that Artsakh must “accept the integration policy” or face “tougher and more drastic steps.”

“We did not accept and do not accept, and today I want to state again that it is not only a decision of the Security Council, but the overwhelming majority of our people accept that we will not deviate from our right to independence and self-determination,” Harutyunyan said.

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Lillian Avedian is a staff writer for the Armenian Weekly. Her writing has also been published in the Los Angeles Review of Books, Hetq and the Daily Californian. She is pursuing master’s degrees in journalism and Near Eastern Studies at New York University. A human rights journalist and feminist poet, Lillian's first poetry collection Journey to Tatev was released with Girls on Key Press in spring of 2021.