Mid-Atlantic – The Armenian Weekly

The Howard Karagheusian Foundation recently announced the appointment of Irina Lazarian as its new managing director. The foundation, formally known as the Howard Karagheusian Commemorative Corp. (HKCC), was founded in 1921 in New York City by Mihran and Zabel Karaghuesian in memory of their 14-year-old son, Howard, who died of an illness.

Irina Lazaryan

With the arrival of Irina Lazarian, the foundation begins a new chapter in its long history of coming to the aid of needy Armenian children and families throughout the world. “Irina brings new vitality and energy to the Karagheusian programs as we face increasing challenges in Armenia, Syria, and Lebanon, where the foundation is currently operating” said its president, Michael Haratunian.

Lazarian is the former executive director of Armenian Fund USA, and brings with her extensive experience in humanitarian and infrastructure projects in Armenia. Born in Yerevan, she relocated to the U.S. in 1998 and is expected to lead the foundation in new directions to fulfill the vision of the Karagheusian family.

The foundation recognizes that Armenians in the Middle East face enormous challenges, especially now with the war in Syria, and is providing substantial assistance to the Karagheusian operations in Aleppo and Beirut.

In Armenia, ever since the earthquake in 1988 and following independence, Karagheusian has operated major programs in the health and social fields for the needy. It operates six health clinics throughout Armenia and Karabagh, representing the major portion of its annual budget.

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St. Gregory’s Armenian Church of Philadelphia is hard at work organizing a truly original event sure to be enjoyed by all attending. On Sun., Sept. 21, at 2 p.m., a “Designer Bag Bingo” luncheon will be held at St. Gregory’s Founders’ Hall. Fifteen lucky women will win designer bags, including top labels Gucci, Prada, Fendi, Laboutin, Judith Leiber, and Chanel.

The talented and devoted women on the committee are Silva Santerian and Maryann Karagelian, co-chairs, with Lisa Ajdaharian, Celeste Ayjian, Mari Degirmenci, Cissy DerHagopian, Margaret Garabedian, Jeanine Hovsepian, Dorothy Hanamirian, Mary Harper, Dori Keshgegian, Amanda Megerian, Lori Sarkisian, Sona Selverian, Tanya Selverian, Cookie Vosbikian, Linda S. Vosbikian, and Donna Walter.

Join them on Sept. 21 for a fun game of Bingo, try your chance at the Chinese auction, and enjoy the lavish Chanel-inspired theme and décor, along with champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts that are sure to impress.

Ticket sales are limited. For advance reservations or for more information, call Cissy DerHagopian at (856) 313-6848 or Donna Walter at (484) 354-0388.

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Special for the Armenian Weekly

Richard Tenguerian’s architectural model making studio is located in NOHO in New York City. There, Tenguerian and his colleagues create minute versions of some of the most towering buildings in the world, real and imagined. The architectural model making business is a highly specialized niche industry, requiring painstaking attention to detail and an understanding of the artist’s vision. It is a specialty practiced by very few, and Tenguerian has acquired a reputation as the best among them.

Richard Tenguerian with one of his models

“Even in this time of digital technology, the power of building a model—not a rendering, not a 3D image, not a video flythrough—still holds sway with both architects and clients. Although many firms do their own model work, certain projects and clients require the hand of a master. And Richard Tenguerian is among the best,” said Brauilo Agnese in the March 2014 issue of “Cool Spaces! The Best New Architecture.”

Born in Aleppo and raised in Lebanon, Tenguerian discovered his passion for model making at 14, when he was interning for a large architectural firm in Lebanon. Even then, he knew his future was in architecture. After the civil war broke out in 1975, Tenguerian moved to the U.S. to live with his aunt in New York. He studied architecture at Pratt Institute, and graduated in 1984. While studying at Pratt, he worked as a model maker to finance his college education.

An example of Tenguerian’s work

Tenguerian had planned to work as an architect, but he found that there was a much greater demand for his skills as a model maker. In 1988, he founded Tenguerian Models. The demand for architectural models has since spread all over the world. Tenguerian has had the opportunity to prepare physical models for many high-profile projects and travel all around the world.

The quality of his work stems from innate craftsmanship combined with the use of advanced technology. “Relying only on technology, the product loses its spirit and does not become a work of art,” he says.

Each of Tenguerian’s models is custom-made, even down to the shade of paint. “Every project is unique in its own way and they all have a story behind them. People often look at display models and think model building is only cutting and pasting. However, there is much more to building a model. A model maker translates the architect’s invisible vision and turns it into a visible reality. Outstanding capabilities of mind and soul are required for such a demanding role in architectural creative order. Only perfect communication with the architect and faultless understanding of his purpose can create the professional environment where such translation into three-dimensional space may happen. The profession can be very demanding. What keeps me going are the different experiences and the creative processes that make each model memorable. We look at our models not like products, but pieces of original artwork.”

Tenguerian’s artistic approach does not mean that he is averse to technology. Many of his models come fitted with lighting that can often be controlled remotely. Components are sometimes made using laser cutting and 3D printing, and the result is a perfect synthesis of modern technology and hands-on craftsmanship. But it is Tenguerian’s innate ability to visualize a building that sets his finished products apart from the competition. He explains, “There is a process but no formula that someone can follow and visualize. It is more like reading someone else’s mind instantaneously before they complete a sentence. This is one of the unique characteristics of this profession.”

The visualization often remains with Tenguerian long after the model has been carefully packaged in a custom-built wooden case and shipped to the client. “Every time I see a project in real life and I walk through it, I feel like I have already been there. I feel shrunk and it feels like I am walking through my model. Even though the building is brand new, I know where everything is and how to get around.”

The primary importance of models lies in their power to convey visually what blueprints and descriptions often cannot. The intricacy and detail of Tenguerian’s models bring architectural visions to life: If a picture is worth a thousand words, a model is surely worth thousands more. As Tenguerian puts it, “Architects always struggle to convey their vision to their clients. Developers often cannot visualize the architect’s idea or concept. Therefore, physical models are the unspoken language between architects and the client.”

Models at times have audiences beyond the clients of architects. When CBS News was preparing a “60 Minutes” episode about the SEAL raid on Osama Bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, the producers felt that the best way for viewers to visualize the raid was through the use of a model. And for that model, they turned to Tenguerian. His model of the compound now resides as an exhibit at the Navy SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Fla.

Working with architect Vatche Aslanian, the plans were drafted and approved, and the Church of Saint Gregory the Enlightener was constructed and has been in use for over a decade.

When asked if the process of creating a model of an existing building is different from creating one from a blueprint, Tenguerian explained, “The definition of a model can be very broad. Model makers can build a replica of an existing building or can build from sketches on a napkin where the building is just a vision. Our expertise is to transform something from [the] virtual world into physical reality.” In his case, the transformation is a seamless one.

Tenguerian has also had the chance to put his skills to use for the benefit of the Armenian community. A life-long attendee of the Armenian Apostolic Church, Tenguerian cites it as a source of inspiration. When he was approached by Father Karekin Kasbarian about building an Armenian church in Westchester, N.Y., he became heavily involved in the project. Working with architect Vatche Aslanian, the plans were drafted and approved, and the Church of Saint Gregory the Enlightener was constructed and has been in use for over a decade.

“We should not take things for granted,” Tenguerian says. “We should grab every opportunity. Everything is possible when someone is passionate, committed, and works hard towards their vision.”

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By Tamar Anna Alexanian

When I was applying for the Leo Sarkisian Internship back in February, the blurb at the top of the application said the following: “During the eight-week Washington, D.C. program, interns live at the ANCA Hovig Saghdejian Capital Gateway House, located a short distance from the ANCA National Headquarters. The participants work on a wide variety of projects based on their individual interests, while gaining hands-on experience within the American political system. A bi-weekly lecture series features guest lecturers including Members of Congress, ambassadors, and Armenian-American leaders.”

The ANCA Leo Sarkisian Interns with Dr. Levon Avdoyan, the Armenian and Georgian area specialist at the Library of Congress.

It was this last part—the bi-weekly lecture series—that I was most excited about. Ever since my first AYF-YOARF Junior Seminar 10 years ago, I have walked into lectures armed with pencil and paper. I have been, and still continue to be, inspired by “educationals,” lectures, and lecturers. Reading that we would have a bi-weekly lecture series during our eight weeks in Washington, D.C. was great news.

Since I arrived in D.C., I have had the privilege of learning from a variety of successful and knowledgeable individuals. Aram Hamparian, the executive director of the ANCA, gave a talk to us on our first day in the office. Yeghisapet Chouldjian, the communication director at the ANCA, spoke to us about the importance of public relations, the use of media, and how to write a press release. We have met—and taken pictures with—countless Congressmen and Congresswomen, including Reps. Schiff, Sherman, and Pallone. We have been to Capitol Hill and witnessed a variety of hearings and events, including a Senate Foreign Relations Committee nomination hearing for the U.S. ambassador to Turkey, a POLITICO lunch with former Vice-President Dick Cheney, a briefing on Cyprus, and a State Department briefing on Syria. But, out of all of our lectures, my favorite was that given by Dr. Levon Avdoyan, the Armenian and Georgian area specialist at the Library of Congress.

I will admit that I was partial to his lecture from the beginning because it was in the Library of Congress. Even though Congressional meeting rooms are beautiful, not much can compare with the Tiffany glass on the ceiling in the main reading room, or the imported marble slabs that have been carved to make the Library of Congress what it is. As an avid reader, I could have spent the entire day alternating between exploring the building and finding the perfect reading spot.

With this backdrop, Avdoyan told us about the work that he carries out at the Library of Congress. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the longest running lecture series at the Library of Congress is the Armenian lecture series. Avdoyan mentioned this after telling us that the Armenian collection has more than 44,000 items, including manuscripts, books, dictionaries, and maps. But what I found most remarkable was that he had discovered a note between then-U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire Henry Morgenthau and the architect of the Armenian Genocide, Talaat Pasha, dated April 24, 1915. The note was an exchange between these two men, about dining together that evening. Avdoyan explained that the discovery of this note is a strong counterargument to those that claim that Talaat Pasha and Morgenthau were not close enough for the latter to know valid or intimate information about Talaat or the Ottoman Empire during that time. When Avdoyan told us this story, he had a glimmer in his eyes, his arms were flailing about expressively, and we were awestruck and staring. This small and seemingly insignificant note is important to our history; even more interesting was that Avdoyan was able to find this note within the thousands of items in the Library of Congress and to give it context and meaning.

Being in the Library of Congress and meeting with Avdoyan was incredible for a variety of reasons: the architecture and artwork were breathtaking, I got an official library card, and Avdoyan’s personal tour was more than I could have hoped for. The Library of Congress reminded me of a few things, too: it reminded me, once again, that there are Armenians everywhere, doing incredible and important work; it reminded me that history—American and Armenian—can and does come alive; and it reminded to me that no matter where I end up in the future—working on Capitol Hill or working at a library—I can always use my passion and my work to help the Cause, and to give back to my people.

Tamar Anna Alexanian is part of the ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Class of 2014 and Vanderbilt Class of 2016.

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Hundreds of Armenians will gather on the New Jersey shore for the annual “Return to Asbury” weekend, which will be held from Aug. 8-10 in an effort to usher in a new generation of Armenians to Asbury Park, N.J.

In its third year, “Return to Asbury” continues to expand its scope and will feature exciting activities including a social at the Watermark Lounge on the boardwalk, a tavloo tournament, and a day at the beach with games and giveaways, and will culminate in a “Kef Party” at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, featuring live Armenian music by Kevork Artinian and the Michael Gostanian Ensemble. The weekend wraps up with a poolside brunch featuring New Jersey’s own DJ Shant.

“Asbury is lightning in a bottle,” said Arsine Kaloustian, an event planner from Florida who holds positions in several Armenian organizations and is spearheading this year’s weekend in an attempt to encourage Armenians to be active in their culture. “The same excitement our parents and grandparents felt still exists there.”

In its heyday, Asbury Park attracted thousands of Armenians from the 1930’s-1970’s who stayed at one of the many Armenian-run hotels by the boardwalk, including the Van Hotel, Hye Hotel, Lincoln Hotel, and Roosevelt Hye Hotel, among others. Participants spent their days on the beach and their evenings at the dances and “hookups” listening to traditional live Armenian folk music and spending time with one another.

Kaloustian, whose grandparents and father traveled to these events every summer from Manhattan, was motivated to continue the “Return to Asbury” tradition when she saw other Armenian weekends on the East Coast fade away, including “Kef Time Hartford” and “Cape Cod Kef.” She has taken the reigns from Robin Barone, who initially re-launched the event with the sponsorship of the New York Armenian Students Association.

“When I first pitched the idea, I never imagined that it would have developed such a following as it did,” said Barone, a Philadelphia native who vacations in Asbury Park. “I was not alone in wanting to connect back to the atmosphere and camaraderie of Armenian events from the past, which were warm, welcoming, and full of joy.”

One of the highlights of “Return to Asbury” will be the performance of traditional live Armenian music, which will be featured heavily during the weekend, from a jam session by the Berkeley pool to the more formal “Kef Party” on Saturday evening.

“Armenian music is a key element of our heritage and culture,” said Philadelphia-based singer Kevork Artinian, who will perform at the “Kef Party,” combining modern beats with the melodies and songs of Armenian musical history. “Every opportunity to hear and enjoy our music helps to keep the Armenian spirit alive.”

Participating musicians include those with memories of the original weekends as well as a new generation that is keeping traditional Armenian music alive by learning to play the music of our ancestors.

“It will be inspiring to see Armenians of all ages coming together to celebrate our music and culture,” said Sage Kevorkian McBride, a classical violinist and concertmaster of the Miami Music Project and the Florida Youth Orchestra. “Nothing makes me happier than being able to create and share music with others, especially fellow Armenians.”

New Jersey-based musician Chris Marashlian, who will be joining the Michael Gostanian Ensemble, was an avid participant in the original Asbury Park weekends and reflects fondly on the influential historic event.

“I grew up and lived through this era, which has since vanished over time, yet which is something that continues to motivate me to this day,” said Marashlian. “The most recent ‘Return to Asbury’ events have been inspirational, as both a remembrance of days gone by, as well as of many more great memories yet to come, where our great music and heritage all comes together each summer at the Jersey shore.”

“This is a legacy, and we all have a responsibility to preserve it and pass it on,” said Kaloustian. “Come be a part of the past, revel in the present, and hand it down to the future.”

“Return to Asbury” will take place from Fri., Aug. 8 to Sun., Aug. 10 in Asbury Park, N.J. The event is sponsored by the New York Armenian Students Association. All event proceeds will benefit Camp Haiastan, Camp Nubar, and St. Vartan Camp. For more information and to order tickets, click here.

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NEW YORK—The four-week internship program at the Armenian Mission to the UN in New York, sponsored by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation-Eastern USA (ARF-ER), is currently underway. Interns Talin Bagdassarian and Manoug Alemian will spend three weeks at the Armenian Mission, where they will prepare reports and participate in meetings with UN dignitaries and members of the Secretariat. The interns will learn about foreign policy challenges facing Armenia and the Caucasus and how the Armenian Mission to the UN addresses these concerns. The last week of the internship will be under the auspices of the ARF-ER.

Manoug Alemian and Talin Bagdassarian

“I look forward to learning more about the diplomatic world and understanding the means used to fight for Armenian issues on an international level. I also look forward to understanding the impact of international law on Artsakh [Karabagh] and Armenia and how the Permanent Mission uses concepts of law to defend them,” said Alemian, who is studying law at the University of Ottawa, specializing in civil law.

Alemian has been an active member of the ARF, AYF, and the Armenian National Committee (ANC) of Canada. In 2013, Alemian participated in the Leo Sarkisian Internship program at the ANCA headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he worked on Hai Tahd issues.

Bagdassarian is currently studying at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), where she is majoring in political science and minoring in history. She has been an active member of LMU’s Armenian Students’ Association since 2011. She spent her spring 2014 semester studying political science at the American University of Armenia.

“I hope to learn about the relationship between the Republic of Armenia and the UN, specifically about how the UN works with Armenia in areas such as development, poverty reduction, as well as with the ministries within the government of Armenia,” noted Bagdassarian.

The ARF-ER-sponsored internship began on July 28 and will continue to Aug. 15. The internship is geared toward political science and history majors who plan to work in the international arena after graduation, providing interns with the ability to learn from and interact with representatives at the forefront of international politics while proudly serving the Armenian Nation.

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Best-Selling Author Presents Latest Novel, ‘Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands’

NEW YORK—Critically acclaimed author Chris Bohjalian is traveling across the U.S. on his “Rock and Roll Book Tour” to launch his latest novel, Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands (Doubleday Canada), and the AGBU Central Office in New York was one of his first stops. More than 115 guests gathered for Bohjalian’s presentation, which was co-hosted by AGBU Ararat, the Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of New York, and the Armenian Network of America–Greater New York Region.

New York Times bestselling author Chris Bohjalian reads excerpts from his latest novel, ‘Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands,’ at the AGBU Central Office in New York. (Photo by Mariana Mekbekian)

It wasn’t the first time Bohjalian brought his work to the AGBU community. He visited the office following the release of Midwives (1997) and The Light in the Ruins (2013). In 2012, the AGBU co-hosted his New York presentation of The Sandcastle Girls (Doubleday), a love story that begins during the Armenian Genocide and unfolds over generations. During that event, Bohjalian recounted his own family’s plight; his grandparents—genocide survivors—had fled present-day Istanbul before finding refuge in the United States.

Bohjalian, who traveled to Armenia to research The Sandcastle Girls, lives in Vermont, the setting for Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands. Sure to be another one of Bohjalian’s best-sellers, the novel is described by The Associated Press as “a thoroughly engrossing and poignant coming-of-age story,” and has drawn praise from The Boston Globe, The Washington Post, The Armenian Weekly, and Library Journal, among others. Narrated by a teenage protagonist, it’s on the summer reading lists of young adults as well as their parents.

Chris Bohjalian joins with organizers of his book presentation event. (L-R) Talene Kachadourian, Ani Tchaghlasian, Sharis Boghossian, and Elizabeth Akian. (Photo by Mariana Mekbekian)

Sharis Boghossian, the AGBU’s event coordinator, provided an overview of the book before introducing Bohjalian to the crowd. “Released just a few days ago, ‘Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands’ tells the story of Emily Shepard, a homeless teen whose parents were killed in a cataclysmic nuclear plant meltdown,” she said. “Emily takes off on her own…but she can’t outrun her past, can’t escape her grief, can’t hide forever—and so she comes up with the only plan that she can.”

Bohjalian hinted at Emily’s plan while reading excerpts, leading a Q&A session, and signing copies of the hardcover for guests. The line to meet him wrapped around the AGBU office. Among those waiting to speak with him were students of the AGBU New York Summer Internship Program (NYSIP), who have attended several enriching events throughout their eight weeks in the city. The NYSIP interns and all the Chris Bohjalian fans left with autographed books, t-shirts, and words of praise for their favorite author.

To watch the trailer for Close Your Eyes, Hold Hands, and to purchase your copy, visit www.chrisbohjalian.com/close-your-eyes-hold-hands.

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

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NEW YORK—Following a successful inaugural year with 55 films from 18 countries, Rated SR Socially Relevant Film Festival New York is gearing up for its second edition with a gathering at Bettolona restaurant on Wed., Sept. 3. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the winning film directors, cast members, and their colleagues as well as network with important industry guests. There will be prizes to win and passes to the festival given out.

Rated SR Socially Relevant Film Festival New York is gearing up for its second edition with a gathering at Bettolona restaurant on Wed., Sept. 3.

Founded by award-winning actor, filmmaker, and curator Nora Armani to promote positive social change through films covering a wide range of social issues, this year’s Rated SR Film Festival has two special spotlight sections titled “100 Years of Genocide” and “Women Filmmakers of MENA.”

“I know many Middle Eastern and MENA women filmmakers who are really talented and make films that deal with socially relevant issues not limited to the status of women only,” said Armani. “I have always wanted to present their work to U.S. audiences and we thought this would be a good time to do it.”

This year’s festival will also shed light on the atrocities of genocide that are ruthlessly carried out to the present day. The festival provides a platform to commemorate the 100^th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide during World War I and honors the sacred memory of its victims in a context that is much more universal and international by juxtaposing it to the Holocaust, the Rwandan Genocide, the genocide in Darfur, and the ethnic cleansing acts in Eastern Europe, and elsewhere.

“There are many nations that have suffered the fate of the Armenians to various degrees,” said Armani. “It is important to put all of that into context and show that impunity encourages further acts of genocide.”Reflecting on the current situation of Christians in Iraq, Armani likened it to the sufferings of Armenians 100 years ago.

Rated SR promotes and provides exposure of its films into a wider viewership by accompanying the winning filmmakers beyond the festival week. This year, Rated SR took seven of the programmed documentaries to Cannes for the Cannes Film Festival Doc Corner. The Grand Prize-winning film “Small Small Thing” had its weeklong release in June as part of the prize at the Quad Cinema and received positive coverage in the New York Times and Village Voice, among other respectable publications. The winning documentary “Not Who We Are” obtained a DVD-VOD distribution by Cinema Libre Studio, and three of the six selected shorts from the festival’s slate have already been distributed on IndiePix.

At its core, Rated SR films must relay a positive uplifting message even when dealing with social ills. “I strongly believe that if a film is made well, and it has an interesting social or human angle, it does not need to rely on gratuitous violence, crime, drugs, nor does it need to glamorize violence through exaggerated special effects in order to become commercially viable,” said Armani. “By offering a platform to filmmakers who choose to make socially relevant films that are also entertaining, we encourage them to make more films of that kind. Film submissions are now open. We look forward to hearing from filmmakers.”

For more information, including submission details, visit www.ratedsrfilms.org.

The launch party for the second edition of the Socially Relevant Film Festival will take place on Sept. 3 from 6-10 p.m. at Bettolona restaurant, located at 3143 Broadway in New York City. No tickets will be sold at the door. Early bird tickets are $25 (includes food and drink); regular tickets are $30 (includes food and drink). To reserve tickets, visit https://socrelevantbettolona.eventbrite.com, call (212) 253-2011, or e-mail ratedsrfilms@gmail.com.

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From June 29 to July 6, St. Gregory of Datev Institute held its 28th annual Summer Program for youth, ages 13-18, at the St. Mary of Providence Center in Elverson, Pa., with the participation of 41 students and 20 clergymen and lay leaders, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan, the Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America.

Faculty, staff, and participants of the 2014 St. Gregory of Datev Institute Summer Program

The institute offers a unique Christian educational program for youth to enrich their knowledge of the Christian faith in a wholesome and nurturing environment, coupled with recreational activities and daily worship and prayer services. Sponsored by the Prelacy’s Armenian Religious Education Council (AREC), the weeklong program this year was directed by Archpriest Fr. Antranig Baljian, the pastor of St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church of Watertown, Mass.

The curriculum is designed to be completed in four weeks (one week each summer). The students who complete the curriculum have the option to return for post-graduate classes. The classes take place concurrently, about 25 50-minute sessions for each level. Graduates of the institute receive more than 100 hours of instructions in the elements of the Christian faith—what we believe, how we celebrate our faith, ways to nurture our faith, how we should live our faith as children of God—all discussed in the context of Armenian Church life and traditions.

Each day began with the students attending a Morning Service at 7:15 a.m., followed by breakfast and then four sessions until 12:30 p.m., when they broke for lunch. In the afternoon, the students enjoyed recreational activities, such as soccer, bowling, basketball, volleyball, and swimming. After dinner, classes resumed from 7-9 p.m., and the day closed with the Compline Service (Husgoom) from 9:45-10:15 p.m. Indeed, an intensive schedule.

Although the program is very demanding, most students embrace the daily schedule, though not without first moaning and whining—“the classes and services are too long.” In any case, most students do love and appreciate the Datev Program. Here are some of their impressions, which echo the sentiments expressed by many participants (more posted on the Prelacy’s website).

“Datev is a once in a lifetime experience and I think everyone should attend at least once in their life.” (Ariana Kazanjian, second-year student)

“This program has changed my life in ways nobody will ever be able to comprehend. I love everyone here; they are like family.” (Rebecca Holmquist, third-year student)

“I made new friends… The classes were very informative and at the same time very fun. I definitely recommend people to come and grow in their faith.” (Sona Borekjian, first-year student)

Archpriest Fr. Antranig Baljian, institute director, speaking to the fourth-level students.

“My favorite part of Datev is the evening service. I love the meaning all the words hold. The classes are very informative and interesting. Datev is such an amazing experience. I am blessed to be given such an amazing opportunity to learn about my faith and culture and make lasting relationships and memories” (Deborah Agopian, third-year student)

“I liked the classes because they made me learn new things and they were interesting. The classes are also really fun. The free time is the best part; I get to play games and talk to my friends. I just can’t wait for the next year. I’m so excited.” (Nayri Asayan, second-year student)

“I have been coming to Datev for the last four years and throughout these years I’ve grown so much. I’ve made so many friends that I know will last a lifetime. I also have learned so much about my religion and heritage, which has helped shape the person I have become. I’m so grateful to have been a part of Datev and soon be able to call myself a graduate.” (Emily Selverian, fourth-year student)

The instructors of the institute this year were His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian (vicar general), Fr. Antranig Baljian (institute director), Very Rev. Fr. Sahag Yemishian, Rev. Fr. Khoren Habeshian, Rev. Fr. Gomidas Baghsarian, Rev. Fr. Sarkis Aktavoukian, Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian, Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, Rev. Fr. Stephan Baljian, Dn. Shant Kazanjian (AREC executive director), Dn. James Haddad, Yn. Joanna Baghsarian, Maggie Kouyoumdjian, and Jeanette Nazarian. The institute was privileged once again to have Fr. Paul Tarazi as a guest lecturer, a professor of Biblical studies and languages at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary who has authored numerous books.

The Datev Summer Program concluded on Sun., July 6, with the celebration of Soorp Badarak at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church of Philadelphia by Very Rev. Fr. Zareh Sarkissian, followed by a luncheon hosted by the Artemis Chapter of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS).

Words of appreciation

The Datev Summer Program is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Armenian Prelacy, clergy, and lay instructors and leaders, parishes, parents, and a number of organizations and individuals. The institute is grateful to the instructors for their labor of love, and the parents for entrusting their children for a week of spiritual and religious formation. The institute expresses its gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable services as supervisors and counselors: Dn. Harout Takvorian, Dn. Bedros Kalajian, Dn. James Haddad, Maral Doghramadjian, Maggie Kouyoumdjian, Tamar Lakissian, and Jeanette Nazarian.

The institute also extends its appreciation to Mr. and Mrs. Hagop and Ica Kouyoumdjian for their generous donation, to those parishes that subsidized a portion of the expenses by providing scholarships to church-server participants, to the Pashalian Family Education Fund, and to the following for their generous support and donations: the Prelacy Ladies’ Guild (PLG), the National Association of Ladies’ Guilds (NALG), Sts. Vartanantz Sunday School (New Jersey), and the “Artemis” Chapter of the Armenian Relief Society (Pennsylvania). Thanks also to the following donors: Mr. and Mrs. Ohanes Chamavonian, Gharibian Farmers, Inc., Asdghig Kazanjian, Dr. and Mrs. Vahan Kouyoumdjian, Mr. and Mrs. Noubar Megerian, and Mr. and Mrs. George Semerjian. A special thanks to the pastor and board of trustees of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church of Philadelphia for their hospitality.

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RIVER VALE, N.J.—From July 17-28, Leo and Sona Manuelian of New Jersey led a home-building mission to Armenia under the auspices of the Fuller Center for Housing Armenia (FCHA). Since 2010, they have dedicated every summer to assisting the homeless in Armenia; they have led 5 teams and more than 75 volunteers from the United States. Their story of selfless devotion to their brothers and sisters in Armenia is inspired by their deep Christian faith. Leo and Sona are doing what most Diasporan Armenians only think about: they are foregoing trips to tropical islands or tours of Europe and are instead spending their hard-earned vacation money working shoulder to shoulder with Armenian families in need.

The July 2014 team

Leo’s first trip to Armenia was 11 years ago as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Armenia. He was so impressed with the work being done to give rural families decent and safe homes that he decided to become a team leader himself. In 2008, Millard Fuller, the founder of Habitat, created a new organization, called the Fuller Center for Housing. Leo decided he would join the new Fuller Center affiliate in Armenia. His close friends and former Habitat staff started the FCHA organization.

Leo’s parents were both victims of the Armenian Genocide. His parents often told him the stories of their suffering. Leo explains, “I do this work because I never want to see Armenians forced from their lands. Homelessness is a problem we can solve, and I am committed to being a part of the solution by building homes for families who need our help. I do this work with a tremendous amount of pride. I will work with FCHA until the good Lord calls me home.”

Leo and Sona Manuelian of New Jersey

With his 2014 trip just a few weeks behind him, Leo is already ordering tools and other supplies to take to FCHA in 2015. Not for one moment does this man stop talking about Armenia, its beautiful people, and the Fuller Center for Housing. And his wife, Sona, has embraced her husband’s deep-seeded passion.

Sona has been a team leader by Leo’s side for the past five years. She didn’t join his earlier trips because of a great fear of flying. However, when Leo would return from Armenia with his emotional stories about the families and the land, she was unable to resist the strong force tugging her toward the homeland.

Sona shares, “Helping my sisters and brothers in Armenia fills my heart with joy. There is no other country like Armenia. My roots are here. Working with the Fuller Center gives me such elation that my heart becomes larger than my body! We do God-pleasing work. Our team members and the homeowners all join together, hand in hand, to build a new home. Where they had nothing before, the families now have a home and hope for the future. To see the smiles on the homeowners’ faces is priceless. I will continue to come to Armenia and work with FCHA until the day I die!”

This year, Leo and Sona led a team of 14 volunteers from the U.S. Including themselves, the team members were Beth Broussalian (California), Mary and Benjamin Nikssarian (California), Avedis Kargenian (Illinois), Perry Sarkisian (New York), Richard Sarkisian (New Jersey), Sean Hughes (New York), Gary and Christian Khachian (Connecticut), Andrea and Steven Sinnott (Maryland), and Jennifer Mugerditchian (Georgia). They worked on the home of Archanik and Susanna Simonyan in the village of Kanakeravan, on the outskirts of Yerevan. During their six workdays, the team filled and concreted the floors of the three-bedroom house and insulated the attic with crushed “doof” (or “toof”) an indigenous volcanic rock.

During one of the work days, the team was joined by youth from the Christian Youth Mission to Armenia (CYMA–Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America) and residents of “Mer Hooys” (literally, “Our Hope”) a program based in Yerevan that provides opportunities to young adult women from disadvantaged lifestyles so they may achieve a productive and secure future. When not working, the team enjoyed sightseeing in Yerevan and touring breathtaking religious and cultural monuments.

FCHA homeowners

To become an FCHA beneficiary, prospective homeowners must complete an application. The application first undergoes a paper audit and then a field audit to determine eligibility. To be eligible, a family must own a half-built home or a home in need of renovation; have an income which can sustain the family, but is not enough to allow them to complete construction of the house on their own or to pay off a bank loan; and, as a result of these factors, live in substandard housing (typically, a portion of the uncompleted house, a “domik,” or a borrowed home). FCHA has no shortage of applicants.

In addition to its sweat equity, the beneficiary family is only required to cover the cost of basic materials (what the Fuller Center calls “the economy of Jesus”). Upon completion and occupation of the house, the cost of materials is converted to an interest-free mortgage, which the family pays in an affordable monthly amount. These funds are then used to purchase materials for other villagers’ homes. In the more than 10 years that this work has been advanced in Armenia, approximately 650 families have been provided with an affordable and decent home.

Volunteers working hard

The positive impact of the FCHA program extends beyond the tangible economic and social benefits. It has proven to be 100 percent effective in stemming emigration: Not one family helped by FCHA has emigrated. From the perspective of the volunteers, this experience allows them to learn about the homeland and enjoy the satisfaction of engaging in a truly Christian experience.

The Manuelian’s have already set their trip dates for next year: July 1-13, 2015. For more information, e-mail Leo Manuelian at levonvi@yahoo.com or Sona Manuelian at moog8238@yahoo.com, or call (201) 746-0409. To learn about additional trip dates with FCHA, visit www.fullercenterarmenia.org or e-mail volunteer@fullercenterarmenia.org.

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By Bedros C. Bandazian

At their official meeting on June 30, the Armenian Cultural Association of America, Inc. (ACAA) Board of Directors appointed James G. Sahagian of New Jersey as associate trustee of the ACAA Endowment Funds.

James G. Sahagian

Sahagian has been a financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors since 2009. His professional work is with individuals and institutional clients on wealth and risk management, and wealth transfer strategies. He has more than 15 years of professional experience in this field. Sahagian earned his B.S. in accounting from Rutgers University and has a MBA in finance from the Rutgers Graduate School of Management.

Sahagian was involved in establishing and promoting the Armenian Studies Program at Rutgers while a student, and has continued to lead this effort for more than 20 years. The program has sponsored Armenian language and history courses and recently partnered with the university’s Center for Genocide Studies and Human Rights.

The wealth of experience and knowledge that Sahagian brings to the ACAA Endowment Funds will enhance its continuing growth—from humble beginnings of under $195,000 in 1997 to over several million dollars to date. The ACAA provides grants to further Armenian-language newspapers, academic studies, internships, cultural programs, and other endeavors to “foster a better relationship for the Armenian Nation.” The ACAA is proud to have the services of James G. Sahagian and welcome his addition to improve and further the Armenian Cause.

James Sahagian is married to the former Maral Halajian. They have two children, Ari, 11, and Seta, 7. He and his family are members of the St. Leon Armenian Church in New Jersey. The Sahagian Family resides in Airmont, N.Y.

Bedros C. Bandazian is the managing trustee of the ACAA Endowment Funds, the St. James Armenian Church of Richmond, Va., and the Hamazkayin Cultural Association of America, Inc. Endowment Fund, and advisor to several other endowment funds around the country, including that of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, Inc., in its formative years. The Bandazian Family helped establish the AYF Camp Haiastan Endowment Fund and the ANCA Endowment Fund. Bandazian has served on the ACAA Board of Directors and is currently chairman of the Board of Bandazian & Hughes, Inc., a full-service real-estate firm in Richmond, which he established in 1974. For more information on the ACAA Endowment Fund, contact Bandazian by calling (804) 370-5468 or e-mailing at bandaz@aol.com.

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Twenty-three teachers from 8 Armenian Saturday schools from New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, and Chicago came together on Sat., Aug. 23 for a one-day seminar organized by the Armenian National Education Committee (ANEC) at the Prelacy headquarters in Manhattan. The program, introduced by ANEC Executive Director Dr. Vartan Matiossian, was well received by the audience.

Participants at the ANEC seminar on Aug. 23

Rev. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in Manhattan and a member of ANEC, greeted the audience on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate. Der Mesrob acknowledged the participation of teachers from St. Illuminator’s Armenian Saturday School (New York), Nareg Saturday School (New Jersey), Haigazian School (Philadelphia), St. Stephen’s Armenian Saturday School (Boston), and Taniel Varoujan Armenian Saturday School (Chicago), all under ANEC jurisdiction, as well as from St. Vartan Saturday School, Armenian School of Brooklyn (New York), and St. Leon’s Armenian School (New Jersey), which are under the jurisdiction of the Diocese. Also attending the seminar was Gilda Buchakjian, the coordinator of Armenian studies at the Eastern Diocese.

The lecturer in the morning was Sossi Essajanian, a teaching assistant at the United Nations International School and a member of ANEC, who spoke on best practices of early childhood teaching and their application to Armenian schools. Essajanian introduced the various theories on child development and focused on literacy development, the main concern of our schools. Afterwards, she introduced various helpful ideas about reading development, where fluency is crucial, she noted. The rest of the presentation was devoted to discussing practical ideas and suggestions for teaching listening and speaking, classroom layout, scheduled planning, and learning Armenian as a second language. These ideas were adapted to the needs and the limitations of Armenian one-day schools. Essajanian spoke in English, complemented with a PowerPoint presentation in Armenian, which is available on the ANEC section of the Armenian Prelacy website at www.armenianprelacy.org.

After the lunch break, Anahid Garmiryan gave a thought-provoking presentation titled, “To Be or Not to Be a Teacher: The Challenges of Bilingualism.” Garmiryan was the long-time principal of the Hovnanian School in New Jersey, and was recently designated as the senior program officer for Western Armenian language support at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in Lisbon, Portugal. Garmiryan began by challenging the traditional idea of the teacher as someone who knows everything or knows something better, and maintained that teachers are actually learners, whose mission is not to teach to their students, but to have them acquire knowledge—in our case, the knowledge of the Armenian language. To be a “no teacher,” she said, is to put oneself in the situation of a language learner and turn language learning into a healthy experience. Teaching Armenian as a second language implies knowing what to do in order to provide the learner with all the means necessary for language acquisition. Textbooks help to put knowledge in order, but we are confronted with the challenge of learners who may see things differently when it comes to the process of acquisition. A teacher’s task is to create the appropriate conditions to make the language audible and turn it into a means of communication. This entails motivation to learn the language, demand to do so, and the generation of interest on the part of the student.

Garmiryan was particularly adamant about the need to understand that language learning is a process of participation where no one has the monopoly on language, and that teachers should work under the premise that everyone can learn. An appropriate environment should be assured for creative means to acquiring language, such as language games, theater, and painting, instead of focusing on the preparation of a “hantes,” she said.

The final item of the agenda was a discussion about successful and unsuccessful experiences, coordinated by ANEC member Dr. Asbed Vassilian, where each school made short presentations that led to an interesting exchange of opinions.

ANEC is under the joint sponsorship of the Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America and the Armenian Relief Society.

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On Sun., June 1, under the Auspices of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) of Eastern United States, the four ARS chapters of New Jersey—“Agnouni,” “Bergen County,” “Shakeh,” and “Spitak”—held their annual “Walk Armenia” event.

Front of Sts. Vartanantz Church to Receive Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian’s Blessing

This worthwhile fundraising and public relations event aims to help local organizations, Armenian citizens in Armenia, and various non-profit projects. This year, part of the proceeds will benefit Camp Haiastan.

In preparation for the Walk Armenia, committee members gathered in front of Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church in Ridgefield, N.J., to distribute the traditional custom-made T-shirts for the walkers and to receive Rev. Fr. Hovnan Bozoian’s blessing.

The walk this year took place in Van Saun County Park in Paramus. The weather was magnificent and the walk was delightful. More than 30 supporters attended with uniformed T-shirts, flags, sneakers, wheelchairs, and canes. We are a small community holding hands together for a greater goal.

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Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of the St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in New York and a member of the Armenian Prelacy Religious Council, represented Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan at the Prayer Service on the occasion of the 69th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly on Mon., Sept. 15. The service took place at the Church of the Holy Family.

His Excellency Ban Ki-moon and Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian

Rev. Gerald E. Murray, pastor of the Church of the Holy Family, welcomed the guests. Remarks were offered by the Most Reverend Gerald T. Walsh, vicar general, Archdiocese of New York; His Excellency Ban Ki-moon, secretary general of the UN; His Excellency Sam Kutesa, president of the 69th session of the General Assembly; and His Excellency Archbishop Bernardito Auza, Apostolic Nuncio permanent observer of the Holy See to the UN.

The service included prayers, readings, and hymns. Many of the prayers called for an end of violence and war, and especially for peace in Syria and the Middle East.

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Through the efforts of Armenian Relief Society (ARS) “Susan Terzian” Chapter chairwoman Sonia Gulbenk, a series of events were held in Connecticut to screen Bared Maronian’s documentary film “Orphans of the Genocide” and highlights of his upcoming documentary “Women of 1915.”

Scene from the public screening at the Adante Student Center Theatre

The first screening was held at the Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) on Tues., Sept. 9, at 7 p.m., sponsored by the department of philosophy, the Honors College, and the Office of President, supported by Dr. Armen T. Marsoobian, chairperson of the philosophy department.

Dr. Mary Papazian, president of SCSU, gave her opening remarks and introduced Bared Maronian to the more than 75 attendees. The event was well received by both the Armenian public in the community as well as the students and faculty from the school.

Marsoobian arranged a lecture discussion on the Armenian Genocide at SCSU on Wed., Sept. 10, from 1-4 p.m. On Sept. 11, he arranged the screening of the documentary at St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church Hall in New Britain, Conn.

Scene at the Gubenkian home

On Sat., Sept. 13, Ed and Carmen Gulbenkian graciously hosted a private dinner party at their home in Pound Ridge, N.Y., where Maronian was able to have a warm discussion about his documentaries. Mr. and Mrs. Gulbenkian were touched by Maronian’s film and pledged $15,000 for the “Women of 1915” documentary. Additional donations were made by attendees, bringing the total contribution for the day to $17,000.

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On Sept. 19-20, the Armenian Relief Society (ARS) “Mayr” and “Erebouni” Chapters of New York, under the auspices of the ARS of Eastern USA, held fundraisers in support of Bared Maronian’s upcoming documentary, “Women of 1915.” More than 80 people attended both fundraisers. The Sept. 19 reception was graciously hosted by Virginia Davies and Willard Taylor at their home in the West Village. The Sept. 20 reception was graciously hosted by Narine and Sandy Petropoulos at their home in Manhasset, N.Y.

Singer songwriter Hooshere and her accompanist, Peter Douskalis

Davies welcomed the guests to her home and thanked Talin Daghlian, chairperson of the ARS Eastern USA, for her leadership, and the ARS chapters for their efforts. Davies recounted how her ties to the ARS are long-standing, as her grandmother was one of the founding members of the ARS Toronto Chapter. She presented Daghlian with Armenia: A Historical Atlas by Robert H. Hewsen as a token of her appreciation. In turn, Daghlian presented Davies with a gift on behalf of the ARS “Mayr” and “Erebouni” Chapters—Hrair “Hawk” Katcherian’s new book, One Church, One Nation. Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian, pastor of St. Illuminator’s Armenian Apostolic Cathedral, presented Davies with a framed picture of a cross. Daghlian then introduced Anahid Ugurlayan, a member of the ARS “Mayr” Chapter and master of ceremonies for the evening.

Johnson Garrett

Ugurlayan welcomed the guests and provided a brief overview of the ARS and its mission, including its work as an NGO at the United Nations. She then invited Rev. Fr. Mesrob Lakissian to give the opening prayer. Lakissian thanked the ARS chapters and noted that the ARS is his favorite Armenian philanthropic organization. He added that Bared Maronian, like him, is a native of Anjar, Lebanon, and was delighted to reconnect with him in New York after 25 years. Lakissian congratulated Maronian on his upcoming documentary and wished him and the ARS continued success.

Ugurlayan then welcomed Johnson Garrett, a digital media executive, internet entrepreneur, and the great-grandson of Cleveland H. Dodge, the first president of the Near East Foundation (NEF), formerly known as the American Committee for Syrian and Armenian Relief. The NEF was founded in 1915 in response to the massive humanitarian crisis precipitated by the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire. “Women of 1915” highlights, among other things, the work of the NEF, and Garrett discussed the important role that Armenian and non-Armenian women played in the relief efforts during the genocide, and the herculean task of Armenian women who not only cared for their families but ensured that the Armenian language, culture, and history would survive the dark days of 1915. Garrett thanked Maronian for giving these women the tribute they deserve. He also talked about NEF’s educational initiatives leading up to the Armenian Genocide Centennial in 2015.

Following Garrett’s remarks, award-winning singer/songwriter Hooshere provided a stirring performance of songs, some of which were included in Maronian’s preceding documentary film, “Orphans of the Genocide.” She performed the following evening as well, and expressed her gratitude to Maronian and to the ARS for the opportunity to help them raise money for “Women of 1915.”

Hooshere’s performances were followed by a presentation by Bared Maronian. A four-time Emmy Award-winning documentary film-marker, Maronian presented excerpts from “Orphans of the Genocide” and explained how the film inspired his current documentary, “Women of 1915.” According to Maronian, the purpose of “Women of 1915” is two-fold: to bring to light the lesser known but equally compelling stories of compassion and humanitarian relief provided by Armenian and non-Armenian women from the U.S., Canada, and Europe; and to highlight the integral role Armenian women played in their families and communities, coupled with the courage and resolve they emulated to save their children and their Christian faith from forced Islamization. He provided a preview of key figures featured in “Women of 1915,” and thanked the attendees and the ARS for sponsoring his documentary.

The Sept. 20 fundraiser followed a similar format, with welcoming remarks by host Sandy Petropoulos, who went on to explain the influence his mother-in-law, Hasmik Goulian, had on his life and his understanding of Armenian culture history. Petropoulos introduced Nayda Voskerigian, a member of the ARS “Erebouni” Chapter and the evening’s master of ceremonies.

Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, spoke about the ARS, its mission, and its noteworthy accomplishments. Following Terterian’s remarks, Richard Sarajian, chairperson of the ARF Central Executive Board, speaking on behalf of the ARF, thanked Maronian for dedicating his professional ambitions to such a noteworthy cause and encouraged attendees to donate as generously as possible to bring his project to fruition. The evening continued with performances by Hooshere and a presentation by Maronian.

More than $16,000 was raised from both fundraisers through the generosity of the attendees and other donors. For those who were unable to attend but would like to make a donation in support of “Women of 1915,” donations can be made online by visiting www.arseastusa.org/donate and clicking on the “Women of 1915” hyperlink. Readers may also donate by mailing a check payable to “ARSEUSA” (mention “Women of 1915” in the memo) to ARS of Eastern USA, 80 Bigelow Avenue, Suite 200, Watertown, MA 02472.

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WASHINGTON—A new international partnership will bring together Yerevan’s Tumo Center for Creative Technologies with CyArk, an international digital heritage preservation non-profit organization, to train students in 3D capture technologies through a series of workshops in Yerevan. Through this initiative, Armenian students from Tumo will learn how to use cutting-edge laser scanning technology to preserve historic Armenian heritage sites.

Through this initiative, Armenian students from Tumo will learn how to use cutting-edge laser scanning technology to preserve historic Armenian heritage sites.

This partnership is an unprecedented initiative within CyArk’s 500 Challenge, the race to digitally preserve 500 heritage sites over five years’ time. The CyArk 500 is an international effort, but the Republic of Armenia will be the first country to participate by engaging and training their youth to take the leadership role in documenting and providing virtual access to Armenia’s heritage sites.

The ancient Armenian monastery of Geghard will be the first site to be digitally documented and converted into detailed 3D models. These models will then be transferred into an online interactive platform serving as a virtual pilgrimage experience for students and researchers alike. After the initial workshop and training with Tumo students, the project aims to continue scanning and documenting at least ten additional historic Armenian monuments and sites and to include them in the CyArk 500 Challenge.

CyArk and Tumo are working together to secure the necessary funding to obtain the technology and provide initial training in digital heritage preservation. The kick-off of this ambitious initiative will take place at a fundraiser on Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2014, at the Embassy of Armenia to the United States in Washington, D.C.

“It is exciting to be able to bring these highly technical skills to Tumo’s students while also being able to create an online virtual pilgrimage experience for Armenians around the world,” stated Marie Lou Papazian, managing director of Tumo.

“In my new capacity as the Ambassador of Armenia to the United States, I fully support Tumo’s new initiative as I strongly believe that incorporating new technology into the education of our youth is imperative for our nation’s future,” said His Excellency Amb. Tigran Sargsyan.

“CyArk is thrilled to train Armenian students to digitize their own heritage and build a digital record of these incredible heritage sites securely archived and incorporated into the CyArk 500,” remarked Elizabeth Lee, Vice President of CyArk.

“It is inspiring to see Armenian youth using technology to tell the stories of these ancient and deeply meaningful places,” remarked Katherine Sarafian, producer of the Oscar-winning Pixar film, Brave. “I am so honored to serve on the Boards of both Tumo and CyArk, two organizations that bring technology, artistry and history together in compelling and important ways.”

To learn more about the Tumo/CyArk initiative and the Embassy event, visit: www.armenia3d.org

For press inquiries, please contact Taline Ayanyan of CyArk at Taline.Ayanyan@cyark.org, or Anna Naghdalyan of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia at a.naghdalyan@mfa.am.

About Tumo: Tumo is a non-profit venture and participation in the Tumo program is free of charge and open to all local teenagers. Tumo helps Armenian youth develop 21^st century skills in order to prevent emigration and build capable members of Armenia’s future work force. For more information, visit www.tumo.org.

About CyArk: CyArk is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission of using new technologies to create a free, 3D online library of the world’s cultural heritage sites before they are lost. For more information, visit www.cyark.org.

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