By Lucy Ishkanian

NEW YORK—On Fri., April 19, the highly anticipated Musical Armenia concert series presented by the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Prelacy Ladies’ Guild will take place in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York. The concert is featuring two young musicians who have already established their presence on the American and international music scenes: Nune Melikian, violinist, born in Siberia, and Narine Ojakhyan, soprano, born in Yerevan.

Nune Melikian

Nune Melikian, a child prodigy, began her musical studies with piano lessons at the age of four, and at the age of six entered Grigoriy Freivert’s violin class. One year later she made her orchestra debut in the Great Hall of the Philharmonic Society of Kazan. Melikian’s talent continued to develop in the Central Music School in Moscow, the Gnessin Music College, and later at the Moscow Conservatory. She received a two-year scholarship to continue her studies at the University of Montreal in Canada with Prof. Vladimir Landsman, receiving her master’s degree in 2011. She is currently studying with Prof. Albert Markov in New York.

Melikian has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral violinist throughout Russia, Europe, and Canada. She has received grants from the Vladimir Spivakov Musical Fund and the David Oistrakh Musical Fund. She has also participated in music festivals and master classes, including the “Stars of XXI Century” with Vladimir Spivakov in Moscow, Copenhagen, Denmark and Rome, Italy.

Narine Ojakhyan, a graduate of the Yerevan State Conservatory in the studio of Marianna Harutiunyan, continued her education at the Royal Academy of Music in London, and received her post-graduate diploma in performance and her master’s degree from the opera program. She has studied with Joy Mammen and Jonathan Papp at the Royal Academy, and coached with renowned artists Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Fredrica Von Stade, Barbara Bonney, and Dennis O’Neill.

In the summer of 2012, Ojakhyan was chosen to participate in the Caramoor Festival. She has also participated in the Verbier Festival 2010 in Switzerland, performing the operatic roles of Mimi in “La Bohème,” Susanna in “Le Nozze di Figaro” under the baton of Sir Colin Davis and John Copley, and the title role in “Lucia di Lammermoor” for the Iford Arts in England. She has also won several competitions, including the Opera Rara Patric Schmid Bel Canto Prize in London and third place of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions (Western region) in 2010.

Narine Ojakhyan

With such credentials, the audience will surely experience and enjoy a beautiful concert program of selections from the classical and Armenian repertoire. The concert begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased through the Carnegie Hall Box Office or by calling the Prelacy at (212) 689-7810.

On Sat., March 2, New York University’s Kimmel Center was the venue for the Armenian Relief Society Eastern USA’s (ARS) Youth Connect Program (YCP). The ARS began the educational program in 1971 at Boston University and has, through the years, developed and changed it to meet the changing needs of college students. The latest YCP was a one-day educational seminar that concluded with an “opportunity fair” with representatives from several different Armenian organizations, who spoke to the students about internships available both in Armenia and the United States.

A group shot of the participants

The 2013 YCP drew more than 30 participants from various geographic locations, universities, and academic disciplines. After welcoming remarks, the participants were divided into smaller groups to discuss the challenges that Armenians, Armenia, and Armenian youth in general face in modern times. The group discussions were led by Professor Asbed Kotchikian, a senior lecturer in the global studies department at Bentley University and director of the YCP. The discussions identified several key challenges, including lack of coordination among students, the demands of academic life that takes the youth away from their communities, as well as a disconnect in terms of information and awareness between Armenians in Armenia and the diaspora. In subsequent group discussions, some concrete suggestions were made to narrow the gap and keep young Armenians engaged in community life and in Armenia.

“The ARS Youth Connect Program this year brought to light multiple topics of importance in the global Armenian community as well as solutions to current issues we as Armenians experience. It was a great opportunity to learn and connect with other Armenians!” said participant Daniel Chakmakjian.

In subsequent group discussions, some concrete suggestions were made to narrow the gap and keep young Armenians engaged in community life and in Armenia.

In the afternoon, the participants had an opportunity to have an interactive discussion with Haig Kayserian, the CEO of KAYWEB Angels, an internet business expert, Angel investor, blogger, and public speaker. Kayserian has founded two international companies, invested in six U.S.-based tech startups, spoken before thousands in New York, San Francisco, Sydney, and Melbourne, and has been quoted by mass and tech media in the U.S. and Australia. In the talk, he shared his experiences as an internet consultant and gave invaluable insight on how to use various social media tools for youth activism. He also talked about how social media will continue to change interactions among people and redefine the parameters of future social and community activism.

The opportunity fair at the end of the day provided students with information from such organizations as the ARS, Birthright Armenia, Armenian National Committee of America, Armenian Assembly of America, Armenian Youth Federation, and Armenian General Benevolent Union. Students had the chance to approach each organization’s representative to gather more information about their internships and opportunities.

Later that evening, the students were treated to dinner at the Al Mayass restaurant, and continued their conversations. Thus, an educational and social event was concluded and, hopefully, served as inspiration for our future leaders.

“This year the Youth Connect Program was as excellent as ever,” said Vazrik Chiloyan. “Although the theme of modern Armenian issues and the common goals and problems of the diaspora and Armenians from Armenia is present each year, the method of engaging the members and the lectures presented never ceases to be amazing.”

“With the video conference discussion by Kayserian on using modern technology and social media to reach our political goals and Kotchikian’s wonderful ability to lecture and moderate discussions, the academic aspect of the program was excellent,” he continued. “The social outing was also a wonderful way to meet Armenians from throughout the country with various backgrounds with the common desire to come together and connect.”

The event was underwritten by the Norian Fund, whose funds are earmarked for education. An investment in our youth is truly an investment in our future. The ARS, founded in 1910 in New York City, is an international organization dedicated to providing education, culture, and humanitarian aid. To learn more about ARS Eastern USA programs and projects in the United States, Armenia, Artsakh, and Javakhk, visit www.arseastusa.org.

By Lana Kazangian

NEW YORK—New York’s Fashion Week may have met its match. On Fri., March 1, the HMADS Alumni Association hosted “A Night of Fashion” at the swanky Leonard’s of Great Neck, N.Y. This first-of-its-kind event for HMADS was a benefit for the school, with a show of children’s and women’s fashions, a vendors’ expo, a Chinese auction, and a family-style dinner-dance all wrapped fashionably into one. The event drew out the fashion forward, including alumni and their parents, current students and their parents, teachers, friends, and community supporters. Most of all, it was a very chic pep rally for everyone’s favorite educational institution, the Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School (HMADS).

The HMADS Alumni Association hosted “A Night of Fashion” at the swanky Leonard’s of Great Neck, N.Y.

“Our alumni have always made us proud,” said HMADS’ school principal-icon Zarminé Boghosian, “but never so much as tonight.” She reflected on the unprompted desire of HMADS alumni to help give back to the school—a true sign of its lasting impression long after the elementary grades are done.

“We proudly wrap ourselves in your fabric as we flaunt down life’s fiercely competitive runway. You are the thread that runs through our needles. Every step we take is stitched with your color,” wrote the alumni in their message to the school.

The Fashion Show Committee, comprised of HMADS grads spanning 25 years, worked arduously over several months to pull the seams of the ambitious night together—and with uberific end results. “We were very pleased with the response to ‘A Night of Fashion,’” said event chair and Class of 1992 alumna Nicole Ryder. “We took a chance and were overwhelmed by the support of everyone who was eager to see this event materialize.”

The event, a huge success on the fun-o-meter and as a fundraiser, was the place to be seen. The Who’s Who of the local Armenian community—more than 300 people—showed up in Hye style to strike a pose.

Natalie Gabrelian (alumna ‘88), the evening’s emcee, opened the festivities and wrangled the rowdy to order. The show featured fashions from two Armenian-owned businesses, Flair Designer Boutique in Stony Brook and Petite Me Chic Children’s Online Boutique, modeled by HMADS alumni, students, and friends. Each style-savvy model put his/her best foot forward to model the outfits, ranging from the ultra-cute to the daring. Every child was a supermodel, even those who shed some tears (oh, the pressure!). The styles included classic threads for children, some with a vintage or hipster edge, and bold and stunning special-occasion gowns for women.

DJ Harry Latirofian delivered a mix perfect for the sashay from runway to dance floor: some “Gangnam Style,” just enough Taylor Swift, and the must-have “Chicken Dance,” topped with Armenian favorites like “Hye Em Yes,” Tata tunes, and “Habibi Ya Nour el Ain” to send everyone shimmying home.

HMADS is a 46-year old educational institution in Oakland Gardens, fully accredited by the New York State Department of Education, providing a regular school year for Nursery through 6^th grade students (plus a once-a-week “Hye-Bardez” program for 2-3 years old). Its regimen is supplemented with daily lessons in Armenian language, history, music, and dance. At its seasoned age, the school is tried and true: HMADS has distinguished itself twice in recent years as the #1 private school in Queens. And let’s face it, #1 never goes out of style.

For years, the stories were told in hushed voices. The tragic true-life tales would escape the lips of the survivors in the privacy of their homes as they revealed their struggles to family members, not only to ease the burdens of their harrowing pasts, but to make sure one of the most mournful chapters in the history of their people would never be forgotten.

Chris Bohjalian (Photo by Tom Vartanedian)

For too long, it had been a story only for Armenians. With the emergence of a new generation of writers, however, came a new approach. They believed that the stories previously told in secrecy should now be told to the world. The latest of these is New York Times best-selling author Chris Bohjalian’s critically acclaimed novel The Sandcastle Girls. On Thursday evening, April 18, Bohjalian will lead a book discussion at Columbia University, in an event hosted by the Armenian Center at Columbia.

A love story that takes place during the Armenian Genocide between an Armenian engineer and an American nurse, The Sandcastle Girls follows a genocide survivor’s granddaughter as she tries to uncover her family’s history and the sorrows of the Armenian massacres that she learns about along the way.

Bohjalian, who is the author of 16 books, has received high praise and accolades from literary critics and readers since his first novel was published 25 years ago. His novel, Midwives, was chosen for Oprah’s Book Club, and Winfrey also selected The Sandcastle Girls as her Book of the Week last summer. Literary praise for Bohjalian’s writing and for the accurate historical portrayal of the Armenian Genocide in The Sandcastle Girls has been covered by such major news outlets as USA Today, Washington Post, and the Boston Globe.

Although the lamentable premise of The Sandcastle Girls is familiar to Armenians, it has been a moment of pride to have such a book published, as they continue to seek justice and worldwide acceptance for the atrocities committed against their ancestors.

“I have been overwhelmed by the support for this novel by the Armenian community around the world. I am deeply and profoundly grateful,” said Bohjalian, whose Armenian grandparents on his father’s side were survivors of the Armenian Genocide. “Whenever I’ve spoken to audiences that are predominantly Armenian, I have left moved beyond words,” he said.

The reaction from non-Armenians towards The Sandcastle Girls has been equally positive. “Consistently non-Armenians have asked me the same sort of question: Why did no one teach me this? Why does no one know this story? They are appalled and, sometimes, aghast,” said Bohjalian. “This is a part of our story that too few people know, and we all hope this novel will help open people’s eyes to a cataclysmic injustice.”

Mark Momjian, the chair of the Armenian Center, expressed the significance of Bohjalian’s appearance on campus. “The enormous power of Chris Bohjalian’s literary art has been recognized worldwide, and his masterful novel, The Sandcastle Girls, is of particular interest to the area’s Armenian-American community, who in just two years will be commemorating the centennial of the Armenian Genocide,” said Momjian. “I know the center’s friends and supporters are eager to hear this distinguished writer, whose originality and brilliance have touched so many hearts.”

Dr. Nicole Vartanian, the vice chair of the Armenian Center, said the Armenian Center is excited to be hosting Bohjalian upon the paperback release of The Sandcastle Girls. “His passionate portrayal of love and loss set amidst the backdrop of the Armenian Genocide has rightly earned him widespread praise from all corners of the literary community,” she said. “It seems particularly fitting that our event will take place at Teachers College, given the rich and robust educational content which forms the foundation of Chris’ novels. The Sandcastle Girls is an especially poignant example of this, as the story has educated masses of Chris’ loyal readers who learned the horrific events of the genocide through the quality of his research and the power of his prose.”

“My sense is that this may be the most important book I ever write,” said Bohjalian, who first attempted to write about the Armenian Genocide 15 years ago. “I hope with all my heart that this time I have gotten it right.”

The book discussion of The Sandcastle Girls will take place on Thurs., April 18, at 7 p.m. in the Cowin Conference Center (147 Horace Mann Hall) at Columbia University Teachers College, 525 W. 120th Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. A question-and-answer session, reception, and a book signing will take place after the presentation.

The man who brought you “Georgetown Boys,” “Silence,” and “Mirrors” has a new project these days, one completely devoid of the theater and stage.

Child places flowers at Dzidzernagapert on April 24 in Yerevan. (Tom Vartabedian photo)

Dr. Herand Markarian is tipping his hourglass over and delving into live history, documenting the stories of genocide survivors and victims as his contribution to the centennial in 2015.

He calls his latest endeavor “Project Testimonies.” Although in its infantile stages thus far, the response he’s received worldwide is off the metered charts.

And he’s gotten the support of veteran editors Iris Papazian (New Jersey), Iris Chekenian (New York), Raffi Setian (California), and yours truly (Massachusetts).

Markarian is moving a mountain with this initiative—one that should have been budged years ago. But like the rest of us, he’s been so busy writing plays and diligently serving his Armenian community that such necessities were sometimes shoved in the back burner until time allowed.

Well, the hourglass has run its course. Now it’s time to start fresh and get this project completed by 2015 and into the hands of proper people and places of interest.

“Every Armenian has a story about their ancestors’ ordeals during the Armenian Genocide,” Markarian tells us. “Let us honor, preserve, share, and document the memories of the martyrs and survivors. Let us tell the stories of those who were silenced. It’s our obligation.”

One of the first to come forward with his report was Mesrob Odian, an activist with Camp Haiastan and other endeavors. He wound up sending an 18-page history. Right behind him was Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, prelate of the Prelacy (Eastern), who will soon be joined by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, primate of the Diocese (Eastern).

Of the first 12 respondents, half were in Armenian, and were diligently translated by Markarian. Three other manuscripts were handwritten and between 300-400 pages. They will be condensed accordingly, properly edited, and bound into books in a series of English volumes.

More than two dozen other folks throughout the country have promised articles on their ancestry from clergy to laypeople, prominent to ordinary. Authors from around the world have also sent along their books to peruse. These will likely be left intact because they’re already published.

Everyone, it seems, is in a genocide mode these days, particularly with preservation. The fact I was able to record my own mother’s history while she was still alive and lucid was my family’s crowning achievement.

And what was done with it? The 25-minute video I had recorded was shown to residents of the nursing home where she lived. Three other Armenian residents were in the audience with her that afternoon.

So were 30 other patients, many of them immigrants who identified our ordeal with their own encounters. Hands flew up at the bare mention of Ellis Island. Jews. Italians. Irish. Polish. All were moved by their own personal history.

My incentive gets even more motivational, now that Markarian has launched “Testimonies.” It’s time to grind out my mother’s written story and include it with the rest.

I never got to record my father’s survival account. All I know is, he survived the genocide and never spoke about it. My mother didn’t, either, until I caught her in a weak moment. Once the ice was broken, she never stopped talking about it.

I see teenagers like Anahis Kechejian and the programs they’re launching in our midst at genocide commemorations. Her initiative is called “Stand up for Your Survivor” and she’s mobilized the entire Greater Boston community.

With Markarian, the world has become his oyster. With the help of Hamazkayin and what he may receive from sympathizers, the venture will gain impetus; it always has with the productions he’s been able to conjure throughout our Armenian Diaspora.

In addition to the 25 plays he’s written, Markarian has directed more than 40 plays, appeared in more than 50 roles, including “Assignment Berlin,” and was recently honored by the government of Armenia for meritorious service.

“Silence” was performed to capacity crowds off-Broadway last year and received critical acclaim. It told the story of love, loss, and the relentless search of a woman for her son following the genocide.

The best, however, is yet to come with “Testimonies,” which he’s subtitled, “The voice of the people.”

He’s got it connected to a nutmeg called Libra-6 Productions, a not-for-profit organization pursuing humanitarian values through theater, art, and cultural events.

“Memories are testimonies…documentations…calls for justice,” he said. “Bringing these true, untold stories to life is the obligation of our generation.”

Those wishing to submit an account of their family’s experience in the genocide may send manuscripts to Dr. Herand Markarian, Libra-6 Productions, Inc., 160 Waters Edge, Congers, NY 10920, or e-mail libra6productions@gmail.com.

Consider it your moral obligation to get involved.

WASHINGTON—Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region Executive Director Michelle Hagopian discussed a full array of Armenian American policy priorities, including efforts to end U.S. complicity in Turkey’s denial of the Armenian Genocide, in a series of meetings with key legislators in Washington, DC. These meetings reinforced the need for a just resolution of the Armenian Genocide to mirror those being held by local ANCA committees in the weeks leading to the April 24th commemoration of this unpunished crime.

ANCA Eastern Region Executive Director Michelle Hagopian on Capitol Hill

Over the course of the past two weeks, Hagopian met with legislative offices from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, New York, Florida, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin, building on the ongoing local relationship with Members of Congress from across the Eastern Region. In addition to justice for the Armenian Genocide, Hagopian focused on the vital role the U.S. can play to supporting Nagorno Karabakh self-determination and standing up to Azerbaijani aggression against its neighbors. Hagopian also discussed Armenian American foreign assistance and trade priorities, which were outlined in Congressional testimony by ANCA Legislative Affairs Director Raffi Karakashian earlier this month.

“These Capitol Hill meetings—coupled with the grassroots efforts in states and districts across the Eastern U.S.—are the most basic way the Armenian-American community can continue to cultivate Congressional relationships so necessary in addressing our core advocacy priorities,” Hagopian said. “In the days leading up to April 24, we’ll be following up with Senators and Representatives here in Washington, DC, and back home as we join together to commemorate the Armenian Genocide.”

These meetings were a precursor to visits by the ANCA Eastern Region that will take place on April 24, when constituents will travel to Washington, DC, to participate in the annual Capitol Hill commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, organized by the Congressional Armenian Caucus, with the participation of the Embassy of Armenia, the Nagorno Karabakh Republic’s Representative’s office, and Armenian-American groups. The event will take place from 6pm to 8pm at Hart Senate Office Building Room 902.

Armenian Americans and human rights advocates can urge their legislators to offer remarks at the annual Capitol Hill Armenian Genocide Observance by sending a free ANCA WebMail at: http://www.anca.org/action_alerts/action_disp.php?aaid=62550756

This year’s Mid-Atlantic Junior Winter Olympics (JWO) was hosted by the Philadelphia “Papken Suni” Chapter from March 15-17. In attendance were members from Philadelphia, New Jersey, Boston, North Andover, Worcester, Providence, and Washington, D.C.

AYF Juniors arrived at St. Gregory’s Armenian Apostolic Church on Friday evening and were greeted by local members and seniors. The chapters went ice-skating Friday night and returned to the agoump to sleep.

Saturday’s basketball tournament, held at Crefeld School, had a high volume of both participants and spectators. Juniors participated in tavlou, checkers, chess, and a basketball tournament. In the end, Boston triumphed, winning first place followed by New Jersey and Philadelphia. MVPs for the weekend included Jacob Jawharjian for younger boys, Lara Kachechian for younger girls, Kevork Apkarian for older boys, and Talene Sagherian for older girls.

After the games, all of the players and spectators returned to the agoump for a chicken and pilaf dinner prepared by the Philadelphia parents. The Juniors then played dodge ball, “Name That Tune,” and made a Harlem Shake video! The Juniors received their trophies and ribbons for their events and enjoyed the rest of the night at the agoump. It was a very successful weekend and a great start to the spring season!

Interior designer Vané Broussard has been styling homes since her days as a young intern in New York. Today, she works for Ghislaine Vinas Interior Design, which recently made the cover of Interior Design Magazine and won Best of the Year for 2012. Broussard is also the founder and editor of the first modern wedding blog, Brooklyn Bride. Born in Istanbul to an Istanbul-Armenian father and an Egyptian-Armenian mother, one-year-old Broussard moved to the United States with her family, where she cultivated her love for fashion and design. She spoke with the Weekly about her double careers, and the passion she shares for both designing and blogging.

Vané Broussard (first from left)

Lilly Torosyan: How did you get your start in interior design?

Vané Broussard: During my senior year at Skidmore College, with a pending degree in English literature, I decided that I wanted to take a more creative route in my career, and started looking into graduate schools in New York City for interior design. I was accepted into Pratt Institute’s graduate program for that fall. One of my professors took us to an office project in Manhattan, and I was so enamored with the design that I called up the designer and asked for an internship, which after graduation turned into a full-time job.

LT: Congratulations on your recent accolades from Interior Design Magazine with your firm, Ghislaine Vinas Interior Design. How has this experience affected you?

VB: It’s actually our second time winning this particular award and being on the cover, but it never gets old! It’s so rewarding to be recognized for all the work that went into a project of this scale. We had been working on that project for four years. Making the award and cover was just the icing on the cake. Since the cover, the project has been featured on a lot of online outlets and will be published internationally, which is always exciting.

LT: Your website, Brooklyn Bride, is the first bridal blog to focus on modern weddings. How did you come up with the idea?

VB: I generally explain a modern wedding as the complete opposite of a Trump wedding. I love really clean architectural design, almost minimalist, with lots of white and pops of bright colors. When planning my own wedding, there was nothing out there online or even in print that was really speaking to what I was looking for, so I decided to do it myself. The blog was really a scrapbook for my ideas, and never in a million years did I expect people to actually find and read it, but they did, and it’s been a wild ride since.

LT: Your blog has been described as aiming for “design-driven” weddings. How have you meshed your profession of designing with blogging?

VB: It’s hard to keep weddings and interior design separate because one can really speak to the other, and my aesthetic for both is the same. Often I’ll find products while sourcing for clients that would be perfect when used for a wedding, and it’s times like those when I really get excited, because I’ve never thought that your wedding needs to scream, “Hey, I’m a wedding!” When it’s designed well and you get great pieces, you can use them later in your home, and no one would be the wiser. Sometimes brides get stuck looking solely at wedding sites or online shops and think that’s all they can use because that is what they’re selling, but when you expand your search to home design shops, you’ll find a lot more options.

The annual Musical Armenia concert series will take place at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York on Fri., April 19. The concert will feature Siberian-born violinist Nune Melikian and soprano Narine Ojakhyan from Yerevan. The musicians recently spoke with the Armenian Weekly about their careers, inspirations, and what’s to come.

Nune Melikian

***

Lilly Torosyan: How did you become a part of the upcoming Musical Armenia concert?

Nune Melikian: It’s a funny story. I attended a concert last year after accidentally seeing the post on Carnegie Hall web site. Two Armenian artists were playing, so I could not miss it. During the break I got acquainted with two Armenians who came from Philly, especially for this event. In our conversation I mentioned that I am a violinist who had just came to New York three months earlier, and they joked, “So should we expect your recital here next year?” I promised them I would.

Some time later, I remembered this conversation and decided to send my DVD to the committee. I had been anticipating receiving the results of the preliminary audition for more than three months. I was chosen. So, involuntarily, I kept my promise, which was given so light-heartily! And one of the acquaintances from last year’s concert is actually coming from L.A. to attend the concert.

Narine Ojakhyan: I usually have several auditions that I apply to for a season. This season, Musical Armenia was one of them, and I am very pleased and excited to be part of it.

LT: When did you realize that you wanted to pursue your musical dreams professionally?

NM: I have been playing the violin since I was six and the piano since I was four. My older sister was a pianist and my mom was always bringing me with her to school. Every time my sister took her music out of her bags, I would play the piano without even knowing the notes. The professor once said to my mother, “I am not sure about Kariné, but your younger daughter is definitely going to be a musician.”

So we started piano lessons, but when I heard the violin sound, I said to my parents that I wanted to only play that instrument. And once I started violin, I never even thought that I could be anybody else but a musician. I still remember saying to my classmates that one day I will be a very successful violinist. I was six years old.

My sister finished music college with excellent marks, and later became a great dentist. So the professor in Siberia was right!

NO: I was born into a very musical family. My inspiration comes from my mother, who had a very beautiful voice, and my aunt, Rebecca Ojakhyan, who is a well-known opera singer and has sang for 25 years in the Armenian National Academic Opera Theater. As a little girl, I listened to classics such as “Anoush,” “La Boheme,” and “Chio-Chio San” from “Madama Butterfly.” I dreamt of one day being on that same stage myself. Luckily, it was not just a dream. I started to sing from very young age and it was clear that I would grow up to become a future opera singer.

Narine Ojakhyan

LT: Which artists have influenced and inspired you?

NM: It’s impossible to say. For me, music has no limits, edges, or borders. Every composer is unique, and every piece is beautiful in its own way. I just adore music in general. I am in awe of Palestrina, J.S. Bach, W.A. Mozart, L.W. Beethoven, F. Schubert, F. Chopin, R. Schumann, J. Brahms, S. Rachmaninoff, S. Prokofiev, P. Tchaikovsky, and many, many others. Speaking about Armenian composers, it’s A. Khachaturian, A. Babajanian, and of course, Sayat Nova and Komitas.

My first violin teacher gave me a book about Russian violinist Leonid Kogan. I read it over and over again as a little girl, and listened to all of his recordings on vinyl. Another violinist, David Oistrakh, is hard not to admire. When I became older, I discovered the genius of Y. Menuhin, I. Stern, and H. Szeryng.

My former teacher in Montreal is Vladimir Landsman. He’s know to a limited circle of musicians, but is a legendary violinist. I think, for example, his interpretation of Franck’s Violin Sonata is one of the best ever recorded.
I have to mention Maxim Vengerov, who I first met when I was nine years old at a concert where we were both playing. After seeing him and listening to his playing, I was totally blown away by this personality. When I got the chance to work with him a few years ago, I was happy—it was challenging.

I am really lucky to be a student of Albert Markov. He’s a great violinist, teacher, musician, and person. He gives me strength by his own example. He teaches me to be free from violin clichés, established opinions, and prejudgments, while knowing the borders. He encourages me to think big. I also admire the Markovs’ playing—both father and son. There must be something in their genes because both of them are excellent violinists!

NO: The first artists that made me fall in love with singing were the incredibly beautiful voices of my mother and aunt. Of course, advancing to a professional career, many singers became inspirational. My favorites are Mirella Freni and the late Beverly Sills, from whom I have also learned a lot.

LT: How does your daily schedule look when you’re preparing to perform?

NM: It all depends on what kind of performance it is. Since I live far away from my family, it’s not always possible to be prepared beforehand for everything, so usually the week or so before a performance is full of rehearsals, late-night practicing, organizing, and anticipation and excitement. I stay concentrated, by trying not to waste my time on any kind of entertainment. I also do a lot of jogging. It helps relieve the stress.

NO: It depends on what I am preparing; if it is a role in the opera, my daily regimen takes much longer and it requires much more work than, say, preparing for a concert. I usually allot myself a few hours to do all of my daily detailed preparation.

LT: What has been your most memorable experience professionally?

NM: It’s hard to say—there are so many of them. One time, I was preparing for the Sibelius Violin concerto with only a week to go before the university Concerto Competition. There was a strike in the university, and I could not hire a piano accompanist, nor did I know anyone who could help me out. So besides learning two and three movements from zero in six days, I had to remember all the tutti part without actually hearing it. I was sure I would not pass the preliminary round, but I did. The next morning, I was holding the music before going on stage, in an attempt to memorize the last bars. I remember a huge empty hall at 9:30 a.m., with the jury somewhere on the balcony. I was alone on the stage with 30 minutes of music to play.

It was the first time in the competition’s 60-year history that somebody ever did it without accompaniment. I became one of the prize-winners.

NO: Each performance is unique. Each audience gives you a different warmth and energy to take home. Every experience teaches you something valuable, so for that reason, every experience for me is memorable. I think that is one of the reasons that we performers are in love with what we do.

LT: What are your plans after the Musical Armenia concert?

NM: As of now, I am planning to have one more recital in the W.M.P. Concert Hall in New York before heading to Canada and Europe for the summer to participate in festivals, performances, master-classes, and prepare for different competitions and concerts. In the fall, I am going to have a series of recitals in Canada with amazing Canadian musicians. Some of them are going to be Armenian concerts. I also have engagements in Boston, Moscow, and Yerevan.

However, instead of telling you my upcoming plans, maybe I should just promise recitals in the Stern Auditorium, Albert Hall, and the Concertgebouw, with the best orchestras and musicians of out time? Because, you see, it all can come true one day.

NO: At the moment, I am also preparing for the role of Mimi in “La Boheme” at the Bronx Opera, which will be running in May. Besides that, there are my usual auditions and upcoming concerts.

The Musical Armenia concert is presented by the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church and the Prelacy Ladies’ Guild. Tickets may be purchased through the Carnegie Hall Box Office.

The Armenian Relief Society participated in the United Nation’s 57^th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York, from March 4-15, 2013. CSW, a functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), is “the principal global policy-making body dedicated exclusively to gender equality and advancement of women”. The theme of this year’s CSW was “Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls”. Approximately six thousand women from all over the world registered to attend the CSW57 events.

As in previous years, the ARS joined CSW57 to give a voice to women and girls across the world fighting against all types of violence. Throughout the last eight months the ARS UN committee chairperson, Stephanie Killian, together with our ARS UN coordinator, Houry Geudelekian, worked hard to plan a series of co-sponsored parallel events in cooperation with various organizations that work against violence against women.

The CSW57 Consultation Day took place on March 3, at the Armenian Convention Center ballroom, with an international delegation of eight hundred women who had come to learn about and prepare to advocate

ARS representatives with Ambassador Garen Nazarian at the Armenian Mission.

against “Violence Against Women” (VAW).

The welcoming speech was given by Soon-Young Yoon, Chairperson of the NGO CSW/NY. Yoon stressed the importance of education in empowering girls and women with courage and resilience.

Michelle Bachelet, Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, conveyed the message of UN Women to the participants. Bachelet emphasized that discrimination and violence have no place in the 21^st century. She also stressed the fact that there is no prosperity or progress without women; therefore, violence against women is undermining development goals. “The CSW57 results in action of promises made and agreements signed, and we must effectively tackle the main causes of violence against women as we work toward the Millennium Development Goals,” she said. Lastly, Bachelet focused on the role of men and boys in fighting against violence against women.

The keynote addresses were presented by CSW Women of Distinction Awardees: founder and president of Femmes Africains Solidarite Bineta Diop, and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Tawakkel Karman.

The program was followed by several panel discussions on trafficking of women and girls, the role of men, and best practices to prevent violence against women and girls.

A training session in communications and social media organized by PCI Media Impact and Breakthrough, in collaboration with the Avon Foundation, was held at the end of the event.

Participants left the Armenian Convention Center with great expectations of the upcoming events and discussions throughout the two weeks of CSW57.

On Monday, March 4, the ARS, together with the Permanent Missions of Armenia and Estonia to the UN and the NGO CSW/NY, partnered with the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders and the Armenian General Benevolent Union for a parallel event entitled, “Commemoration of SC [Security Council] Resolution #1325: What Lies Ahead?”. This high level parallel event was moderated by H.E. of Armenia to the UN Ambassador Garen Nazarian. The panelists were Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia H.E. Urmas Paet, Bineta Diop, UN representative of the International Alliance of Women and Chair of CSW /NY Soon-Young Yoon, UN Women’s Chief Advisor on Peace and Security Anne Marie Goetz, and International Coordinator of the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders Mavic Cabrera-Balleza.

Minister Paet stressed the need to focus on security, development, and human rights. Unfortunately, sexual violence continues to be used as a tactic for war, said Paet. It is true that UN SC Resolution 1325 deals with women in military conflict zones, however it can also be applied in societies that are in peace. As a consequence, reparations should be used as a tool to empower women and girls, and women must be engaged in peace negotiations. Bineta Diop focused on the significance of equal access and full participation of women in the peace process. Diop stated that the impact of conflict on women is a universal problem, and if peace agreements don’t talk about gender-based violence, there cannot be durable peace.

Anne Marie Goetz of UN Women mentioned the need to support women’s civil society organizations while referring to the fact that the biggest gap in implementing SC Resolution 1325 is giving women a voice in civil society.

Soon-Young Soon raised the question of how the draft recommendation for action, “Women and Girls in Conflict Prevention, Conflict, and Post Conflict”, presented at the last Convention on the “Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women,” can make a difference in the lives of survivors of violence. She also stated the need for data and surveys regarding the situation of women on the ground.

Mavic Cabrera-Baleza of the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders talked about the importance of the localization of national action plans some countries use to make a change in society.

A meeting between H.E. Ambassador Garen Nazarian and ARS members took place at the Armenian Mission on Tuesday, March 5. During the meeting, discussions took place regarding social issues in Armenia, Artsakh and Javakhk and the role of the ARS in implementing projects towards the benefit of social development, education and healthcare. Ambassador Nazarian congratulated the ARS for its extraordinary work, both in Armenia and the Diaspora. The role of the ARS in the post- 2015 Development Agenda, as well as the Society’s involvement in the NGO CSW/NY activities, became a focal point of the meeting.

The ARS delegation, including ARS UN committee members and ARS Inc. Executive Director Lala Demirdjian-Attarian,  participated at the annual reception, chaired by Geudelekian. During  the reception, two women of distinction awards were presented to Bineta Diop and Tawakkol Karman.

During  CSW57, ARS partnered on parallel events with four organizations.  Together with ZONTA International, the ARS organized a parallel event on “Trafficking”. The panelists included Lynn McKenzie, president of Zonta International and the Zonta International Foundation, Nola Theiss, Executive Director and founder of Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships,  Nora Armani, actress and filmmaker, and Nicole Zundorf-Hinte, an adviser in the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women, and Youth. The panelists discussed trafficking victims in the US, the protection of victims, prosecution of traffickers, and the types and goals of preventive programs. They shared the work they have done to help victims of trafficking and to fight against trafficking. Armani, who was invited by the ARS, focused on the power of media and films as a tool to raise awareness about human trafficking and violence against women.

NGO CSW/NY committee members singing the theme song at the closing of the Consultation Day.

The second partnership was with the International Council of Jewish Women (ICJW). The panel discussed the role of men and boys and their involvement in the fight against VAW. The panelists gave examples of what different societies believe in and how men and women behave regarding VAW.

A panel on the “Global Perspective on VAW” was organized in partnership with The Virginia Gildersleeve International Fund. It was a moderated panel discussion on grassroots programs educating women and girls about their rights and creating prevention programs. Panelists discussed case studies of countries, such as Rwanda, Georgia, Argentina, and the Philippines, implementing programs to fight violence against women.

ARS’ final event, in partnership with the Al Hakim Foundation, was entitled “Activation of Spiritual and Religious Values to Combat VAW”. The ARS invited Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian as one of the panelists. Bishop Tanielian explained the importance of religion in regards to gender equality and the female role stating that the importance of the panel discussion is to find dynamic ways and means to prevent acts of violence. Through references to the Holy Scriptures, the Bishop gave examples of how unlawful acts of violence have been criticized and how the roles of husband and wife have been depicted over the centuries. Moreover, Bishop Tanielian focused on the power of education to prevent violence in general, and specifically against women, concluding, “…the sacred task of educating belongs not only to the school instructors, but to all of us. We have to gear all our systems to get rid of violence, this universal virus which deteriorates our society…”

Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian participating at the panel discussion on “Activation of Spiritual and Religious Values to Combat VAW”.

Throughout the two weeks of the CSW57, ARS UN committee members and UN badge holders attended many side events that addressed matters such as ending child and early forced marriages, protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, and providing justice and critical services for survivors of violence. The  participation of the ARS at the CSW, which tackled the contemporary and significantly important issues of women’s and girls’ rights and violence against women, is now opening new doors for further partnerships at the UN/CSW level, prioritizing the post-2015 development framework . The continuous efforts and commitment of ARS UN committee members and badge holders result in the organization’s year-long involvement with other UN entities, such as UN Women, NGO/Human Rights, UNDP, UNSPA, DESA, and the office of the Assistant Secretary General for Human Rights.

“The ARS is proud to have been a part of such a successful and meaningful CSW,” stated Pauline Getzoyan, Central Executive Board member. “The Board is very pleased with the hard work and dedication of our UN coordinator, Houry Geudelekian, as well as the entire UN Committee, including our badge holders, for organizing appropriate events and partnerships in the battle to eradicate violence against women and girls. The role of the ARS at the United Nations continues to grow and will become increasingly important, particularly with regards to our ongoing work on behalf of women and girls internationally,” Getzoyan concluded.

WASHINGTON—On April 21, Armenian-Americans from across the Greater Washington, D.C. area called for an end to U.S. complicity in Turkey’s genocide denial at a White House rally held just days before President Obama’s annual April 24 statement.

A scene from the protest

The “Let Your Voice Be Heard for Genocide Recognition!” protest was organized by the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) “Ani” Chapter, in coordination with a coalition of Armenian-American groups comprising the Greater Washington Armenian Genocide Commemorative Committee.

“We are all gathered here today to commemorate and bring awareness to what New York Times Best-selling Author of The Sandcastle Girls, Chris Bohjalian, aptly called, ‘the slaughter you know next to nothing about,’” began AYF “Ani” Chapter Chairwoman Narineh Abrahamian. “The United States—President Obama—can play an important role in pressing Turkey to deal honestly with its dark past by speaking truthfully about this crime. Anything less only enables Turkey’s continued genocide denial. Anything less makes the United States complicit in that denial. Anything less sends the dangerous message to other despots that they too can get away with genocide,” she said.

Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Executive Director Aram Hamparian relayed the hope of the community by talking about then-presidential candidate Obama’s pledge to recognize the Armenian Genocide and the disappointment in the face of five years of subsequent U.S. kowtowing to Turkish government threats. “We are going to be the conscience of this great nation,” explained Hamparian. “We are going to put America—if not this April, but eventually—back on the right side on the Armenian Genocide issue and in so doing move American policy back to the right side in dealing with all genocides.”

Hamparian’s remarks are available on the ANCA YouTube channel http://youtu.be/urD0xKxNJcM.

Throughout the course of the protest, AYF members presented photos and survivor accounts detailed in the iWitness project, the oral and visual documentation of survivors of the Armenian Genocide by Ara Oshagan and Levon Parian. The photos and survivor series has been adapted into a lesson plan for 7^th-12^th graders by the Genocide Education Project. After the reading of each survivor account, protesters urged Obama to honor the lives of these and all survivors and recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Also presented were cables written by U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire Henry Morgenthau and other U.S. consuls during the course of the genocide, documenting the deportation and murder of the Armenian, Greek, and Syriac populations from 1915-23.

“In Memory of the Millions,” a poem by noted Armenian author Jack Hagopian, was presented by spotlighting the strength and endurance of the Armenian people through the genocide. Armenian music was poignantly performed on saxophone by Jake Bournazian throughout the rally.

Images from the protest are posted on the AYF Ani Chapter Facebook page, and can be viewed by visiting www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151554995351760.1073741829.64424881759&type=1&uploaded=15.

President Obama, along with Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of State John Kerry, each, as Senators, consistently and repeatedly recognized the Armenian Genocide, and called on former President George W. Bush to properly recognize this crime. In January 2008, Obama, in a statement to the Armenian-American community, stated “America deserves a leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian Genocide and responds forcefully to all genocides. I intend to be that president.” Over the past five years, the president has not honored his pledge; rather, his administration has gone so far as to oppose a House Armenian Genocide resolution and legislation calling on Turkey to return Christian churches to their rightful owners, the vast majority of which were confiscated during the Armenian Genocide.

Obama’s statements in support of Armenian Genocide affirmation as a Senator and presidential candidate can be viewed at http://anca.org/change/docs/Obama_Armenian_Genocide.pdf.

The April 21 White House demonstration was part of a series of Washington, D.C. area Armenian Genocide commemorative activities, which includes a demonstration in front of the Turkish Embassy and the annual Capitol Hill Armenian Genocide Observance, both to be held on April 24.

NEW YORK—High school and college students nationwide were invited to address the question, “Why Is it Important for Schools Nationwide to Include the Armenian Genocide in the Core Curriculum?” in the 6^th Annual Armenian Genocide Commemoration Essay Contest co-sponsored by Knights and Daughters of Vartan and Facing History and Ourselves. A distinguished panel of judges this month announced first place to Charlotte, N.C. resident Artur Minasyan, a student at University of North Carolina at Charlotte; second place to Franklin, Mass. resident Ariana Ferraro, a student at Mount Saint Charles Academy in Woonsocket, R.I.; and third place to Ridgefield, N.J. resident Christopher Markosian, a student at Bergen County Academies in Ridgefield.

The winners were recognized in the company of over 2,000 supporters during the Armenian Genocide Commemoration in Times Square (at 46^th/47^th and Broadway) on Sun., April 21.

In his essay, Minasyan wrote, “The pressure of the past has been a heavy load for us to carry for almost one century and it is time to spread this load and share it with the world. Our children are ignorant of the Armenian Genocide and have only been taught to hate the offender. It is our moral duty to teach and inform the younger generation of this major part of global history.”

OAKLAND GARDENS, N.Y.—On Sat., April 13, the Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs and the Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School came together to present an “Evening of Remembrance” to commemorate the 98^th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

The musical program was presented in the church sanctuary to an audience of about 150 people. Students Danielle Ashbahian and Nicole Mark warmly opened the evening with a welcome for Fr. Abraham and Yeretzgin Karine Malkhasyan, genocide survivor Charlotte Kechejian, and all guests. As 12 year olds, they shared the fact that although they have been taught about this atrocity, there is still much they do not know and hope to understand as they become adults. They both emphasized the fact that our faith encourages love and forgiveness, and that while sometimes when “bad thing happen it is not easy to forgive,” that is what God wants. Nicole Mark then played the Gomidas piece “Karoon” on the violin with Arthur Ipek accompanying her on the piano. Their performance was delightful and meaningful as they are the representatives of our karoon (spring) for a promising future.

Concert pianist Tanya Gabrielian then played the Mansourian piece, “Nostalgia.” Her performance was sharp and dramatic. The Zvartnotz Quartet, with members Cecee Pantikian, Nikita Morozov, Aleksandr Nazaryan, and David Bakamjian, performed “String Quartet No. 1” by E. Mirzoyan. The beauty of the sanctuary and the power of the performers made the audience feel as if they were in a formal concert hall. Guests were then moved by Gabrielian and the quartet coming together to present Dvorak’s “Piano Quintet No. 2 in A Major.” The emotion that it evoked was so powerful that some guests cried.

As the program came to a close, Fr. Abraham brought back Arthur Ipek, who eloquently recited the poem “In Memory of the Million: Nerga-We Are Present!!” by Jacques S. Hagopian, in Armenian. Der Hayr then proceeded to thank everyone who participated in and attended the event. He especially thanked Charlotte Kechejian, a 100-year-old survivor of the genocide, for being with us, and for being among those who were saved and able to begin a new life in this country. As he continued, he too delivered a message about forgiveness. Short and yet powerful, he repeated these words, “We must forgive, but we must never forget.” Forgiveness comes with our faith and values, and yet we must not forget so that we learn from this horrific time in our history.

With the program over, everyone was invited to Kalustyan Hall for a reception. With delicious foods presented by the event committee, the reception also offered a lovely display of art work by the students of the Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School, the Holy Martyrs Armenian Language School, and the Holy Martyrs Sunday School. The work was representative of the feelings of the students regarding the Armenian Genocide. It was their emotional connection to a significant piece of their heritage. Some of the student-artists were present to answer questions about the work, and many photographs were taken of both the children and the performers.

The donations received before and during the admissino-free concert were accepted in memory of all the victims and survivors of the genocide; they were a special generation who, despite all that they had to endure, showed the world that they could still contribute, and how their faith was a powerful guide in their difficult journey. They were a generation like no other and the music and art presented for this event was to be a way to remember all of them with love and thankfulness.

Among the thousands of tourists and native New Yorkers who crisscrossed through the bustling and overflowing streets of Times Square on Sunday afternoon, April 21, there were only three individuals whose universal message of human suffering and injustice mattered most.

Armenian Genocide survivors (L-R) Perouz Kaloustian, Arshalouis Dadir, and Charlotte Kechejian (Photo by Harry Koundakjian)

Surrounded by dazzling billboards, scores of people, and looming skyscrapers, Perouz Kaloustian, Arshalouis Dadir, and Charlotte Kechejian stood out as the survivors of one of the most catastrophic events in world history. The three women, a century old, sat in the front row of the 98^th Armenian Genocide Commemoration, huddled underneath blankets and braving the cold so they could be present in Times Square as living proof to the assembled crowd that numbered in the several thousands.

But the survivors were also there to inspire. Standing just a few feet away were the disciplined and earnest Homenetmen Scouts, standing at attention in their crisp uniforms and taking turns holding the flags of the United States, Armenia, and Artsakh (Karabagh) throughout the program. The close proximity of these two generations—those who survived to tell the story, and those who will continue the memory—culminated in a silent promise of never forgetting. This emerged as the theme of the afternoon as politicians and guest speakers promised the survivors that their struggles and stories would continue to live on.

The crown on Times Square

A staunch supporter of Armenians and one of the earliest and most consistent backers of the Armenian Genocide Resolution in the U.S. Congress, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) once again exhibited his unwavering commitment to the Armenians and to the recognition of the genocide.

“We promise that even when the last survivor is gone, we’ll keep the memory of the Armenian Genocide alive because it’s our duty,” said Schumer as his voice reverberated through Times Square to thunderous applause. “We come here to tell the world, to tell Turkey, to tell everyone, that you cannot deny the genocide.”

Schumer reiterated his commitment to the Armenian Genocide Resolution in Congress and to the significance of its passing.

“Every time a genocide occurs we say never again. But if we cannot remember those in the past, we might not be able to prevent those in the future. … The candle of truth always burns brighter than lies,” he concluded, adding Armenian spirit to his words by proclaiming, “Getze Hayasdan!” (Long live Armenia!).

New York City Comptroller John Liu, who has consistently appeared at the Armenian Genocide Commemoration in Times Square since his days as a New York City councilman, has been a strong advocate for recognition of the Armenian Genocide. “This is a fact of history that has to be accounted for and confessed to,” said Liu. “Only then can we move forward.”

Drawing on his own background as an Asian-American who immigrated to the U.S. at the age of five, Liu spoke of his long-time contact with the Armenian community in Flushing, Queens, where he and his family settled. Growing up in Flushing, he said he learned of the Armenians and became involved in the community there, even visiting the New York Armenian Home, which has served as a residence for survivors of the Armenian Genocide.

“I’m hoping action is taken by sending a strong message here in New York City and around world that the Armenian Genocide will not be forgotten,” said Liu.

Peter Koutoujian, the sheriff of Middlesex County in Massachusetts and a former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, delivered meaningful remarks tinged with emotion as he reflected on those killed and injured during the recent bombing of the Boston Marathon Koutoujian was an instrumental figure in the capture of the perpetrators. He tied in the innocence that was lost in the senseless tragedy to the innocence lost during the Armenian Genocide almost 100 years ago. He referred to the difficult journey of his own grandparents, Abraham and Zarouhi Koutoujian, who fled their home in Marash during the genocide.

Koutoujian noted that he learned of patriotism for his country and his people from his family, who sought refuge from religious persecution in the U.S.  “We have to pass on the lessons of patriotism and perseverance,” he said. “It’s been my life’s work to bring recognition to the Armenian Genocide.” Koutoujian’s patriotism and perseverance served as the impetus for the resolution he passed 12 years ago that brought the Armenian Heritage Park into existence in the heart of Boston.

“Together we can stand Boston strong, New York strong, and Armenian strong,” Koutoujian concluded, enlivening the audience with his engaging and compassionate words.

In his remarks, Dr. Dennis Papazian, professor emeritus of history at the University of Michigan-Dearborn and former grand commander of the Knights of Vartan, said that there had been no need for recognition of the Armenian Genocide in the past because survivors and diplomats, such as U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire Henry Morgenthau, Sr., had served as witnesses to the atrocities of the genocide.

Papazian spoke of the compelling amount of published evidence on the genocide, including a collection of news reporting by the New York Times during that time and a book citing the numeration of Armenians expelled from each town, city, and village in the Ottoman Empire. He noted that aside from factual evidence, prominent people have been stepping forward to recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Sheriff Peter Koutoujian

“Times have changed and there’s reason for hope,” said Papazian. “There have been acknowledgments of the Armenian Genocide by Turkish scholars and public figures.” One influential individual who has not only accepted the reality of the Armenian Genocide, but also published a book about it, is journalist Hasan Cemal, the grandson of Cemal Pasha, who was one of the architects of the genocide. “We are winning the battle and we will continue to win,” said Papazian.

The positivism of Papazian’s words rang true in Times Square as thousands gathered in solidarity, in particular the Armenian youth, who were a strong presence this year. Wearing black tee shirts with red and white print that read, “Our Wounds Are Still Open, 1915,” draping themselves in the Armenian flag, and holding signs demanding that Turkey and U.S. recognize the Armenian Genocide, they proved to the survivors—and to the world—that they will not falter in the responsibility they have inherited for worldwide recognition.

Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate of Armenian Church of America (Eastern), gave the invocation and the Very Rev. Vazken Karayan, pastor of the Holy Cross Armenian Church in New Jersey, representing Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), delivered the benediction. Other clergy in attendance included Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy and Fr. Thomas Garabedian representing Bishop Mikael Mouradian of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of the United States and Canada.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the co-sponsors of the commemoration were Natalie Gabrielian (AGBU), Alex Karapetian (Armenian Assembly), Dr. Vagheenag Tarpinian (ADL), and Gary Sinanian (Armenian Council of America). Arpi Candan spoke on behalf of the Grand District Representatives of the Daughters of Vartan.

The winners of this year’s Knights of Vartan essay contest were announced at the program: Artur Minasyan, first place (University of North Carolina, Charlotte), Ariana Ferraro, second place (Mount Saint Charles Academy), and Christopher Markosian, third place (Bergen County Academies).

Ania Avsharian and Nairi Kaprielian, under the direction of Maestro Vagharshag Ohanyan, sang the national anthems of the United States and Armenia, as well as “God Bless America.” The Armenian Radio Hour of New Jersey, under the direction of Dr. Vartan Abdo, streamed the event live in video format worldwide, reaching over 20,000 people, with the assistance of his dedicated volunteer staff.

Dr. Mary Papazian, serving as MC (Photo by Harry Koundakjian)

The 98th Armenian Genocide commemoration in Times Square was organized by the Mid-Atlantic chapters of the Knights and Daughters of Vartan, and was co-sponsored by the Armenian General Benevolent Union, the Armenian Assembly of America, the Armenian National Committee of America, the ADL-Ramgavars, and the Armenian Council of America. Participating organizations included the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), Prelacy of the Armenian Church, Armenian Missionary Association of America, Armenian Presbyterian Church, the Armenian Evangelical Church, the Armenian Catholic Eparchy for U.S. and Canada, and numerous Armenian youth organizations, including the Armenian Church Youth Organization of America, the Armenian Youth Federation, the Tekeyan Cultural Association, Homenetmen Scouts, Hamazkayin Cultural Association, Noyan Tapan of Brooklyn, N.Y., Rutgers University Armenian Club, Columbia University Armenian Club, and the Armenian Students Association.

Hirant Gulian was chairman of the organizing committee, and co-chair was Dr. Dennis R. Papazian, academic advisor. Dr. Mary Papazian, the president of Southern Connecticut State University, and Armen McOmber, New Jersey attorney, served as MCs.

WASHINGTON—As Armenian-Americans commemorated the genocide in communities throughout the nation, ANCA Eastern Region board members and top regional activists brought the message of genocide affirmation and justice to the nation’s capital and to legislators representing the 31 states that make up the eastern region of the U.S., the ANCA-ER reported.

Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.-3) with (L-R) Chattanooga resident Elaine Mckeehan, Michelle Hagopian, and Bearj Barsoumian.

“Our day on the Hill was especially fruitful because meeting with our respective Senators and Representatives was a precursor to our interaction with them at the genocide commemoration later that night. One-on-one meetings with constituents really hammer home what the ANCA does, and we strive to foster both new and old relationships with our friends in Congress through these visits,” said Michelle Hagopian, the executive director of the ANCA Eastern Region.

On April 24, Hagopian, along with ANCA-ER board chairwoman Nora Kzirian and board member Tamar Kanarian, scheduled back-to-back meetings on Capitol Hill before attending the annual Capitol Hill observance of the Armenian Genocide with Members of Congress and the Greater Washington Armenian community in the Hart Senate Office Building that evening.

They were accompanied by ANCA Government Affairs Director Kate Nahapetian, as well as constituents from throughout the East Coast, including ANCA Tennessee’s Bearj Barsoumian and Jocelyn Micolucci of Pennsylvania.

The group also attended the opening prayer of the April 24^th session of the U.S. House, led by Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.

NEW YORK—Gregory J. Melikian of Phoenix, Az., will be awarded the 2013 Ellis Island Medal of Honor by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO), the sponsor of the Ellis Island Medals of Honor.

The 27th Annual Ellis Island Medals of Honor ceremony will take place on Sat., May 11 on Ellis Island, and will honor leaders in entertainment, business, government, military, education, sports, media, and healthcare. The Ellis Island Medals of Honor ceremony pays tribute to American citizens of diverse ethnic origins whose influence and achievements inspire and touch the lives of people everywhere.

Melikian follows a history of commitment to his community and nation. In World War II, he was a 20-year-old sergeant with Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Forces (SHAEF), headquartered in Versailles and Reims, France, from 1944-45. He was a telegraph radio operator under the command of Supreme Commander General Dwight D. Eisenhower. At 3:30 a.m. on May 7, 1945, it was Melikian who was chosen to announce to all military forces and world leaders the unconditional surrender of Germany and the end of World War II in Europe.

After obtaining a law degree in 1948, he established a successful practice in New York City, specializing in real estate law. Melikian would eventually become a New York City Courts arbitration judge, but his true joy became the purchase and restoration of historic buildings. After buying his first building in 1951, he went on to amass 32 properties by the time he retired from real estate in 1979.

After moving to Arizona in 1969, Gregory and his wife, Emma Ordjanian Melikian, helped the then-small Armenian community establish the Armenian Community Center, Melikian Hall, of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Arizona.

Melikian has been a generous supporter of education and the arts in Arizona, serving as a board member of the Phoenix Symphony and as president of the Arizona Opera Company in the 1980’s.

In 2007, he and his wife established “The Melikian Center for Russian, Eurasian, and East European Studies” at Arizona State University (ASU). The Melikian Center programming includes the internationally recognized Critical Languages Institute, which offers intensive instruction in the less commonly taught languages of Eastern Europe and Eurasia, including Albanian, Armenian, Russian, Persian, Polish, Tatar, Ukrainian, Uzbek, Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian, Pashto, and Hebrew.

Melikian also served as Hon. Commander of the 56th Fighter Wing and 944th Fighter Wing of the Air Force Reserve at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

In 2008, ASU President Michael Crow presented Gregory and Emma Melikian with the University Medal of Excellence for their leadership and civic engagement. The medal honors innovative leaders who have advanced awareness and action on issues that affect the wellbeing and positive development of their communities.

In 2012, Melikian was inducted and bestowed as chevalier (knight) into the French Legion of Honor for his unique role as “The Man Who Ended WWII” in Europe. He was recommended for this award, the highest decoration in France, by French President Francois Hollande.

“I am delighted and honored to receive this award,” Melikian said, regarding the 2013 Ellis Island Medal of Honor. “It’s a testament to my Armenian immigrant parents who fled the massacre of Christians in the Ottoman Empire and arrived on Ellis Island to start a new life for their family.”

PastEllis Island Medal of Honor recipients include six presidents of the United States, Nobel laureates, athletes, leaders of industry, artists, and others whose work has made a lasting impact on humanity. They are awarded annually to outstanding American citizens, from all walks of life, who have distinguished themselves through their significant contributions to this country. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor ranks among the nation’s most prestigious awards. The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have officially recognized the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, and each year the recipients are listed in the Congressional Record.

Critically acclaimed author Chris Bohjalian led a spirited and engaging book discussion about his New York Times best-selling novel The Sandcastle Girls on Thurs., April 19 at Columbia University’s Cowin Conference Center at an event hosted by the Armenian Center at Columbia University.

Bohjalian speaking to the audience at Columbia about his book ‘The Sandcastle Girls’ (Photo by Robert V. Kinoian)

On tour for the paperback release of The Sandcastle Girls, a love story that takes place during the Armenian Genocide, Bohjalian impressed the audience with his deep historical knowledge of the genocide and the powerful rippling effect the book has had in educating people about the atrocities.

In her introduction of Bohjalian, Dr. Nicole Vartanian, vice-chair of the Armenian Center at Columbia, noted the author’s “boundless intellectual curiosity” and his ability to pull in his audience from the very beginning.

“His skilled narrative is seamless and captivating all at once,” she said. “Bohjalian’s pen and prose merge to create an epic story of love, loss, betrayal, survival, hope, fear, and fortitude.”

For the audience to gain a better understanding of the significance of The Sandcastle Girls and how it came into being, Bohjalian began his presentation by sharing photos of his family dating back to 19^th-century Constantinople.

One was of his grandfather as a youngster sitting on his father’s lap at the turn of the 20^th century in the Ottoman Empire. “My grandparents, Leo and Haigouhi Bohjalian, were survivors of the Armenian Genocide,” he said. “Like most survivors, they took their stories to their graves.”

Flashing a black and white photo of his parents’ wedding day, Bohjalian revealed that his mother was not Armenian, but Swedish. “My mother was never the outsider because she adored her Armenian family,” he said, showing a touching photo of a bronze charm of Armenia that was on his mother’s keychain.

Shedding some light on his family’s history, Bohjalian said his great-grandfather provided cavalry horsemen to the Turks. But with the start of the genocide, they confiscated his horses, home, and property in Constantinople, and killed him. The surviving members of the family made their way to Egypt, and his grandparents eventually met and wed in Paris.

Growing up in Westchester, N.Y., Bohjalian was close with his grandparents, and would accompany them to the Holy Cross Armenian Church in Washington Heights on Sundays. The memory of his grandparents and the impact they had on his life remained with him, as when he first attempted, 17 years ago, to write a novel about the genocide. After completing the manuscript, however, he was not happy with the result; almost two decades later, he decided it was time to try again. But this time, he wanted to do it right, because “in my heart, I knew The Sandcastle Girls was the most important novel I was ever going to write.”

Members of the Executive Board of the Armenian Center at Columbia (Photo by Robert V. Kinoian)

The book focuses on the story of an American nurse who brings aid to Armenians in Aleppo, Syria, where she meets Armen Petrosyan, an engineer who lost his wife and infant daughter to the genocide. In the present, their granddaughter Laura is drawn back by a photo she sees at the Armenian Library Museum of America (ALMA) in Watertown, Mass., of a woman who, based on the caption, is related to her. This picture links the present and the past. As Bohjalian noted, there is an “enormous amount of my childhood in this book.”

When he completed his manuscript, Bohjaian was warned that the book would be a commercial disaster because “no one has heard about the Armenian Genocide and no one wants to read about the death of 1.5 million people.” He maintained his belief in the novel, however, and of getting this story out to the world.

He thanked the support of many Armenian organizations, such as the AGBU and ANCA, which hosted “remarkable events in three time zones in the first three days the book was published.” Word of mouth spread quickly and soon Bohjalian was giving book talks to non-Armenians who were interested in hearing the truth about the genocide, a chapter of history they had never known. Bohjalian showed pictures of book groups who sent him photos expressing how much the book meant to them, as well as photos posted by those who were reading The Sandcastle Girls all over the world, from Norway to Afghanistan. Within weeks, he had sold the foreign rights to such countries as the United Kingdom, Brazil, Russia, France, and Israel.

A highlight of Bohjalian’s presentation was a photo journey that included the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias, Lebanon, where there is an Armenian Genocide Museum, and Der Zor in Syria, where “to this day you can run your fingers through the sand and come away with fragments of skull and bone of our ancestors.”

Bohjalian also made a trip to the Jebel orphanage in Lebanon, founded by a Danish missionary, which housed more than 3,000 Armenian orphans, and the Musa Dagh memorial in Anjar, where he saw canisters that were once filled with ashes of genocide martyrs.

His journey concluded with a trip to Yerevan, where he “went to the Armenian Genocide memorial in Yerevan and placed flowers at the eternal flame in memory of our ancestors.”

“It was important for me to see the geography of the Armenian soul from the Armenian ground, to see Mount Ararat,” he said. “Ararat and Musa Dagh are two mountains that comprise the geography of the Armenian soul.”

Mark Momjian, the chair of the Armenian Center at Columbia University, thanked Bohjalian for a gripping and emotional discussion. He presented Bohjalian with a gift of an inscribed copy of the novel Mayfair by the Armenian writer Michael Arlen, and invited guests to a reception, where Bohjalian signed copies of his books.

Bohjalian’s story behind The Sandcastle Girls and his ties to his Armenian heritage inspired attendees. Nora Arkelian traveled all the way from Eerie, Pa., so she and her children could hear Bohjalian’s talk. “I wanted my children to make this trip with me so that they understand their heritage, and how special it is to be Armenian,” said Arkelian, whose children never met their great-grandmother, a genocide survivor. “Chris’ characters in the book reminded me of how strong a people we are. As Chris reminds us, ‘We are the mountain.’”

Columbia University Teacher’s College student Anna Abalyan was impressed with Bohjalian’s discussion and was “glad to see the book is helping raise awareness about the Armenian Genocide.” Historian Dr. Vartan Matossian appreciated Bohjalian’s ability to convey the story of how the book was written.

“I was particularly interested to hear his reflections about being the son of an ‘assimilated’ Armenian-American and how he had been, predictably, attracted to trying his hand at the literary representation of the genocide, if such a thing is really feasible, over the past 20 years,” Matossian said.

The Armenian Center at Columbia University was proud to host such an impassioned and remarkable writer like Bohjalian. “The timing of Chris Bohjalian’s inspirational talk at Columbia University, marking the 98th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, is critical,” said Momjian. “With the centennial two years away, our hearts and minds are moved by this great writer and his dedication not only to preserving the memory of this terrible crime, but the miraculous survival of the Armenian people.”

“Chris’ presentation not only offered a fascinating perspective on the novel’s, and his own, evolution through the stories it tells, but also demonstrated why he is such a celebrated and beloved novelist,” said Vartanian. “Interweaving personal anecdotes with the challenges of authoring a novel that requires such historical precision, he humbly exposed his writing and editing processes to the audience in a way that will linger with us as we return to the pages of this extraordinary novel again and again.”

ANCA-GW Calls for Investigation into Anti-Armenian Threat

BETHESDA, Md.—The Armenian National Committee of America – Greater Washington (ANCA-GW) today called upon police and postal authorities to fully investigate and prosecute an anti-Armenian threat against an elderly Rockville couple of Armenian heritage.

Image of threatening letter sent to the home of Ara and Salpee Sahagian.

An envelope addressed to A. Sahagian included a news clipping (see attached image) about the recent Boston Marathon bombing, with the handwritten message: “Another Armenian Bastard,” pointing to a discredited link between this act of terrorism and what the news story incorrectly referenced as “an Armenian man named ‘Misha.’”

“We call upon federal and local authorities to immediately investigate and fully prosecute those responsible for this hate crime,” said ANCA-Greater Washington spokesperson Sevan Kolejian. “This hateful act of intolerance and intimidation also serves to remind the media of the human price innocent citizens are paying for their flagrant and repeated misreporting of the ‘Misha’ story.”

Ara and Salpee Sahagian are both long-time residents of Maryland, having served in the lay leadership of Bethesda’s Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church, and as active members in a range of community and civic organizations. A U.S. Army veteran, Ara worked for four decades as an engineer for the Department of the Navy and U.S. Marine Corps.  His wife, Salpee, worked at the Library of Congress and later served as an aide to U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield.

In the days following the Boston Marathon bombing, Armenian Americans protested news outlets that repeated the unsubstantiated, and now fully discredited, allegation by the uncle of the two suspects, Ruslan Tsarni, that they were somehow inspired to commit these crimes by an ethnic Armenian convert to Islam.  News reports later identified ‘Misha’ as Mikhail Allakhverdov, an Armenian-Ukrainian from Azerbaijan, whose family fled anti-Armenian persecution in the early 1990′s.

The ANCA-Greater Washington, DC has reached out to local churches and community groups to collect information regarding any other reported instances of anti-Armenian hatred, and calls upon all Armenian Americans to report documented cases of anti-Armenian hate crime to report-hate-crime@anca.org.

HACKENSACK, N.J.—Bergen County officials and local Armenian residents commemorated those who perished during the Armenian Genocide at the Bergen County Courthouse on Wednesday afternoon, April 24, in an annual event sponsored by the Knights and Daughters of Vartan.

Taleen Babayan delivering keynote speech

Attendees on behalf of Bergen County included Sheriff Michael Saudino, representatives from the offices of the Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan and the Bergen County Clerk, the Honorable John S. Hogan, and members of the Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Guests gathered by the Armenian Genocide memorial on The Lawn on Main St., as Grand Vice Commander of the Knights of Vartan, John Lawrence Shahdanian, Esq. welcomed everyone and invited Freeholder Maura R. DeNicola, representative of Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan, to present a proclamation for the Armenian Genocide. DeNicola declared April 24 as “a day of remembrance and reflection in somber recognition of the great calamity known as the Armenian Genocide.”

Following the reading of the proclamation, Shahdanian introduced the afternoon’s keynote speaker, Taleen Babayan, who expressed the resilience of Armenians despite a history marred by catastrophe and tragedy.

“Almost a century after an unsuccessful attempt at extermination, we continue to thrive as a people,” said Babayan. “We are scattered, yes, but we are unified in our message. Unified in our will to persevere. We are here, appropriately, at this hall of justice, to see that justice is administered, no matter how long it may take and how arduous the path.”

The Armenian Genocide memorial plaque at the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack

Babayan touched on the family stories of survival shared by the audience members and Armenians across the diaspora, and she spoke about the responsibilities of the next generation to continue recognition and commemoration efforts.

“As descendants of survivors, we have inherited a heavy load of responsibility and a moral obligation to keep our identity and the truth of our history alive. We have to ensure that those who perished in the Armenian Genocide do not fall victim twice—once to the sword and second to the lost pages of history.”

She noted that the challenges confronting the Armenian people and their homeland have not ended, yet added that despite the conflicts, Armenians continue to persevere and prevail.

“Our church hymns continue to echo in our sanctuaries. Our language continues to be spoken. And we continue to remember. And that is our victory in the face of annihilation.”

The program concluded with a Requiem Service at the Armenian Genocide memorial; dedicated on July 8, 1990, it states, “In Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide, 1915-1923, where 1,500,000 innocent Armenians were massacred by Ottoman Turks.”

Area priests and deacons led the Hokehankisd, and included Fr. Hovnan Bozoyan, pastor of Sts. Vartanantz Church, Ridgefield; Rev. Fr. Diran Bohajian, pastor of St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn; and Rev. Fr. Vazken Karayan, pastor of St. Mary’s Armenian Church in Union City.

Mother and daughter laying flowers at the Armenian Genocide memorial

The afternoon service concluded with the laying of red carnations at the memorial plaque.

As the son and brother to two U.S. presidents, and a two-term governor of Florida, John Ellis “Jeb” Bush is one of the most influential figures in America today. He’s viewed as a trailblazer on the national scene, an innovator in policy and governance, and a voice of wise counsel on issues facing our country and the world.

Clergy and guests at the head table at the Grand Banquet of the 111th Diocesan Assembly in Boca Raton

But it was a tender act of compassion in a time of desperate need that drew Jeb Bush into the hearts of the Armenian people, in America and in our homeland. It was in the earliest days after the Armenian earthquake—mere weeks after the cataclysm of December 1988—Jeb Bush announced he had volunteered to travel to the stricken country to deliver supplies to the victims. He would make the trip in the company of his 12-year-old son, George.

The fact that the son of the president-elect at the time would travel on such a mission to a Soviet republic drew international headlines. But Jeb Bush’s response was that it was merely an example of the “thousand points of light” his father had spoken about during the recent presidential campaign.

Even so, the reality that greeted the Bushes on the ground in Armenia was even more desperate than they had expected. “Just about every structure was off of its foundation,” a family member said. “There were people literally walking through the street with very little clothes on and starving.” In a television interview, Jeb Bush described a hospital visit to children injured in the tragedy as “something that’ll be with me and my son for the rest of our lives.”

A newspaper account painted a touching portrait of the trip. “With tears in his eyes, the son of President-elect George Bush presented food and gifts today to brighten the Christmas of children injured in Armenia’s earthquake,” it read. And then the article added this poignant quote from Bush himself: “This is probably the greatest Christmas gift I could give myself or my own son.”

In later years, President George H. W. Bush would say how his son’s act of compassion had even larger repercussions; he recalled Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev “telling me afterwards that when Jeb went to church in Armenia and shed a tear there, it did more for the U.S.-Russia relationship than anything I could possibly imagine.”

That theme of the power of outreach at a time of need would later drive Jeb Bush’s approach to executive governance. During his eight years as governor, from 1999 to 2007, he was widely applauded for leading improvements in Florida’s economy, environment, and healthcare, as well as for reforming its education system.

And his experience among the Armenian people, viewing their suffering as well as their will to survive, likewise left a strong impression—as shown in his proclamations designating April 24 as Armenian Martyrs Day. Jeb Bush has called on “the people of the United States to observe [the date] as a day of remembrance for all the victims of genocide, especially those of Armenian ancestry,” in the conviction that “recognition of this tragedy [would] educate people about genocide and may prevent future occurrences of genocides.”

In choosing Jeb Bush as the “Friend of the Armenians” for 2013, the Diocese cited his impressive tenure as the governor of Florida, and also recalled with great fondness that trip to Armenia after the earthquake. “Your expressions of compassion at that time—and the images of you and your son standing side-by-side with the Armenian people—truly fortified the friendship between America and what would shortly become the free Republic of Armenia.”

Marta Batmasian, a member of the FAR Board of Directors, accepted the award on behalf of Governor Bush at the Grand Banquet of the 111th Diocesan Assembly in Boca Raton, Fla., on Fri., May 3.