ARMENIAN COMMUNITY OF CALIFORNIA EXPESSES WILLINGNESS TO TAKE ACTIVE
PART IN 25 NOVEMBER TELETHON
LOS ANGELES, November 24 (Noyan Tapan). During the November 19 meeting
with NKR President Arkady Ghoukassian the Armenian Community of
California supported its compatriots from the Eastern states of the US
in their aspiration for strengthening aid to Nagorno Karabakh. It, as
well as the Armenians of Boston, New York, Detroit and other US cities
expressed its willingness to take an active part in the November 25
telethon on fundraising for the completion of the construction of the
“North-South” highway, which is of great importance to the NKR.
According to the Head Information Department attached to the NKR
President, during the meeting with a group of Armenian businessmen
and philanthropists of Armenian origin participants (couples Levon
and Zara Ghoukassians, Ralf and Savi Toufenkians, Hakob and Maria
Shirvanians were among them) reported about their intention to
contribute to the development of Artsakh. They, in particular,
emphasized that the current activities of the Armenian Community of
the US are connected with the growth of its confidence in the NKR
President and support to the democratic and economic reforms carried
out by him in Nagorno Karabakh.
This thought stood out in all the meetings of Arkady Ghoukassian in
America, in particular, during the reception given in honor of the NKR
President by the Knight’s Council of the Armenian General Benevolent
Union (AGBU) and its Californian Department. Vahe Imastunian, the
Head of this Department, coming up during the reception noticed the
importance of the NKR President’s visit to the US from the point
of view of the strengthening of the relations between the American
Community and Artsakh. Arkady Ghoukassian thanked the participants
for their genuine wish to help Artsakh and expressed the opinion
that there are all the necessary prerequisites for the completion of
the financing of the construction of the “North-South” highway this
year, as well as for the implementation of other important projects
concerning the all-round development of Artsakh. He emphasized that
the active participation of the Diaspora in the forthcoming telethon
will demonstrate clearly that the Armenians of the whole world aren’t
indifferent about the fate of Artsakh, which, in its turn, will have
political significance.
The Hovhannesians, whose guest was Arkady Ghoukassian, also wanted
to contribute to the completion of the “North-South” highway.
Issues concerning the socio-economic development of Artsakh, as well
as the process of the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh
conflict were touched upon in Arkady Ghoukassian’s interview to the
local Armenian TV reporters. “Artsakh won in the war imposed on it,
because there were Armenia and the Armenian Diaspora standing behind
its back. I am sure that we will achieve the same results in economic
confrontation if we join our efforts,” the President, in particular,
said.
Touching upon the prospects of the settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh
conflict, Arkady Ghoukassian emphasized that the subordination
of Nagorno Karabakh to Azerbaijan is out of the question. “Our
purpose is to gain the juridical recognition of Nagorno Karabakh,”
the President announced. He estimated negatively the actions of the
authorities of Baku trying to gain the discussion of the issue of
so-called occupied territories in the UN and characterize them as
provocative. According to him, such steps of official Baku complicate
the too difficult process of the peaceful settlement still more. The
NKR President noticed that the issues of territories and refugees
arose as a result of the military aggression of Azerbaijan against
Nagorno Karabakh, that’s why they are rather the consequence of the
armed conflict than it’s reason. According to Arkady Ghoukassian,
“The main issue that should be resolved is the issue of the status
of Nagorno Karabakh.” He also noticed that the neglect of the issue
of the status of Nagorno Karabakh by Azerbaijan makes the discussion
of other problems concerning the overcoming of the consequences of
the armed conflict nonsensical.
Arkady Ghoukassian was present at the Sunday service at the St. Karapet
Church in Hollywood on November 22. The service was held by Archbishop
Pargev Martirosian, Head of the Artsakh Diocese of the Armenian
Apostolic Church, who is in the US today.

NKR PRESIDENT STRESSES NECESSITY OF UNION OF EFFORTS OF ARMENIA, ARTSAKH AND
DIASPORA IN REALIZATION OF NATIONAL TASKS
LOS ANGELES, November 24 (Noyan Tapan). On the eve of the telethon in
support to Nagorno Karabakh to be held in the US on November 25 NKR
President Arkady Ghoukassian met with well-known figures of business,
political, public and religious circles of the Armenian Community of
the US.
According to the Information and Analytical Department of the NKR
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Arkady Ghoukassian met with well-known
philanthropists Albert Boyajian and couple Vahe and Veronik
Karapetians, old friends of independent Artsakh, in the US Westerm
Coast on November 24. The latter finance a number of benevolent
projects in Artsakh, as wella as the work on the technical service
of Goris-Lachin-Stepanakert and “North-South” highways. Vahe and
Veronik Karapetians also contributed to the establishment of the
Fund for Support to Gifted Children in the NKR. On November 23,
the NKR President also visited the headquarters of the “Lincy”
Foundation, where he had a conversation with James Aljian, the
Chairman of the Foundation. During his meetings Arkady Ghoukassian
informed the interlocutors about the situation of the NKR economy,
about the prospects of its development. He gave a high assessment
to support rendered by the Armenian Diaspora to Artsakh, thanking
participants of the meetings for contribution to the development of
Nagorno Karabakh. Arkady Ghoukassian expressed hope that the “Lincy”
Foundation will continue to sponsor a number of economic programs
quite important for the NKR. Participants of the meeting were for
active participation in the upcoming telethon, mentioning the high
level of the Diaspora’s confidence to the NKR authorities and, first
of all, to the President.
Prior to it a banquet was organized in honor of the NKR President
with the participation of over 600 representatives of the Armenian
Community of the US Western Coast. Archbishops Hovnan Terterian and
Mushegh Martirosian, holy leaders of the Armenian Apostolic Church of
the Western Coast, sheriff of Li Bak district of Los Angeles, as well
as representatives of the Armenian public organizations and political
parties were among the guests. The NKR President thanked the Armenians
of California for permanent support to Artsakh. He again stressed
the necessity of the union of the efforts of Armenia, Artsakh and the
Diaspora in the realization of the national tasks. The NKR President
also informed participants about the democratic and economic reforms
taking place in Nagorno Karabakh, as well as about the obstacles that
Artsakh faces today. In this connection he mentioned the importance
of the “North-South” highway for the NKR, calling on participants of
the arrangement to contribute to the completion of the construction
of this highway during the telethon.
The NKR President also had a separate conversation with Hovnan
Terterian, the Head of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic
Church, in which other clergymen representing the Armenian Apostolic
Church in the US participated. Archbishop Hovnan Terterian said
about his willingness to contribute in the future to Artsakh people
in their aspiration to live independently and freely.
A number of issues of political and economic character were discussed
during the separate meetings of Arkady Ghoukassian with the heads
of the boards of the Armenian parties operating in the US Western
Coast: Hnchakian, Ramkavar-Azatakan and ARF Dashnaktsutiun. The NKR
President called on the polictical figures to take an active part in
the settlement of the Karabakk problem. Touching upon the programs of
economy, the President mentioned the necessity of step-by-step pass
from humanitarian programs to the implementation of the projects on
the socio-economic development of Artsakh. In their turn, heads of the
local party boards Gabriel Maloyan (Hnchakian Party), Ara Aharonian
(Ramkavar Azatakan Party) and Hovik Saliba (Dashnaktsutiun Party)
expressed readiness to contribute to Artsakh in the future, including
in the economic sphere. They also assured the Head of Nagorno Karabakh
that they’ll try to provide succesfull holding of the telethon.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

HOVANNESS BADALIAN MUSIC FUND BANQUET
WATERTOWN, MASSACHUSETTS, November 22 (Noyan Tapan). The first annual
banquet of the Hovanness Badalian Music Fund (HBMF) will be held
on December 4, 2004 at the Hellenic Cultural Center, Watertown,
MA. H. E. Arman Kirakossian, Armenia’s ambassador to US, will be
in attendance and composer Konstantin Petrosian of Providence,
RI will be the MC. Among the highlights of the evening: first US
appearance of young and talented folk singer Artur Anushavanian;
soprano Nune Karapetian performing with pianist Nune Hakopian and
recognizing Bostonâ~@~Ys own Arev Armenian Folk Ensemble with an
Appreciation Award.
HBMF was established in early 2004 to celebrate the life of the
singer who made songs such as Hayastani Karmir Ginin, Yes Im Anoosh
Hayastani and Mayres Mahes Chimana famous. The goal of the Fund is
to provide merit-based scholarships, worldwide, to children enrolled
in Armenian music education programs. The Fund will also provide
assistance to individuals and organizations that create material and
training programs for children.
In October of this year Armenia celebrated Badalian’s 80th birthday
at the National Opera in Yerevan with the participation of prominent
artists including his daughter, opera singer Nuneh Badalian. Fifty of
his students led by pedagogue Arsen Grigorian came on stage singing
together and watching the great Maestro sing “Yes Im Anoush Hayastani”
on the screen, representing not only the past, but inspiring hope for
the future. “Badalian’s dedication and unrelenting work will always
be an enduring reminder to his devotion to his art and ultimately to
his people,” said Aram Gharabegian, Artistic director and conductor
of the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia, and a key organizer of
the event.
HBMF is organized under the charter of Amaras Art Alliance, a not for
profit organization. For the past ten years Amaras has been an active
member of the Boston, MA cultural scene, presenting jazz concerts,
solo performances, art exhibits and organizing student trips to
Armenia. Amaras has co-organized major events such as the multi-venue
celebration of composer Aram Khachaturian’s Centennial in 2003.
–Boundary_(ID_Mh96OP7lwqTodiOAjxy2nQ)–

CONCERT OF SHAKE AND HANRY HARUTIUNIANS HELD AT “KOMITAS” HALL OF ARMENIAN
“ARARAT” CULTURAL ORGANIZATION OF TEHRAN
TEHRAN, November 23 (Noyan Tapan). A concert of Shake and Hanry
Harutiunians was held at the “Komitas” hall of the Armenian “Ararat”
Cultural Organization of Tehran on November 19. The works of Armenian,
Iranian and Italian composers were performed in the program to the
piano accompaniment of L. Avetisian, R. Arzumanian and K.Mehrabian.
According to the “Alik” (“Wave”) daily newspaper of Tehran, dance
performances headed by Loreta Avetisian with participation of the
“Zartonk” dance group were also involved into the program.
Bishop Nshan Garakehelian, Head of the Armenian Catholic Church
of Iran, was present at the arrangement. He took the floor at the
end of the program. In his speech he highly estimated the masterly
performance of the Harutiunians and thanked all the participants of
the program for such a successfull concert.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

26TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION OF ARMENIAN BOOK HELD IN ANTELIAS
ANTELIAS, November 23 (Noyan Tapan). The annual exhibition of the
Armenian book was opened in Antelias on November 14. Along with the
different cathedral publishing houses a number of Armenian publishing
houses of Lebanon, foreign publishing houses, as well as individual
authors participated in the exhibition organized by the library
administration of the Mother See Church.
According to the press divan of the Catholicosate of the Great
Cilician House, clergymen, government officials, MPs, intelligentsia,
students, people being at the Cathedral during the liturgy, as well
as journalists were present at the opening of the exhibition. In his
speech Catholicos Aram I emphasized that it is necessary that the
publication and spread of the Armenian book should turn to mission. He
said that as a result of cooperation of the Catholicosate of the Great
Cilician House with Doctor Zaven Yekavian, the Head of the Armenian
Department of the Galust Gyulbenkian institution, many publications
have been released in Antelias up to now. Then the Catholicos, applying
to clergymen, intelligentsia and teachers, said: “Without Armenian
book your way is gloomy, without Armenian book your table is poor,
without Armenian book your heart is empty, without Armenian book you
is parched with thirst. Return to book, take it and read and don’t
forget that those reading books become rich owing to it”.
The students of Dprevank presented the artistic program and performed
with the polyphonic choral singing devoted to the Armenian language and
culture. Then the books of the spiritual, church-study, philosophic
spheres, as well as books for children and youth, books on the study
of literature, musical books and publications of other spheres of
culture were presented to participants.
The exhibition will operate till November 30.

ARKADY GHOUKASSIAN: “IF AZERBAIJAN WAS IN MOOD FOR PEACE SERIOUSLY, IT WOULD
CARRY ON DIRECT NEGOTIATIONS WITH NAGORNO KARABAKH”
DETROIT, November 23 (Noyan Tapan). If Goris-Lachin-Stepanakert
highway is the way of life for Nagorno Karabakh, the “North-South”
highway being under construction will become one of the most important
constituent parts of the NKR economic development. NKR President Arkady
Ghoukassian said about it during the public forum held in Detroit,
in which representatives of the Armenian Diaspora of this American
city participated.
On November 17, the NKR President arrived in Detroit from New York
within the framework of the visit to the US in connection with the
regular telethon on fundraising in support to Nagorno Karabakh to
be held here on November 25. It is expected that the collected funds
will be directed at the completion of the “North-South” highway being
of strategic importance to Nagorno Karabakh. The highway will connect
almost all the regions of the republic.
The NKR President called on participants of the forum and in their
person the whole Armenian Community of Detroit to participate in
the forthcoming telethon and, in such a way, support actively the
socio-economic development of Artsakh. Both here and at Arkady
Ghoukassian’s meetings in New York the line of the policies on the
democratization of the social-political life and the building of the
civil society in Nagorno Karabakh, as well as the reformation of its
economy, the revival of its cultural and spiritual spheres carried
out by the President met with approval. Participants of the forum
agreed in the opinion that the current moods of different circles
of the Armenian Community of the US, which expresses willingness
to enlarge aid to Artsakh for the resolution of problems put before
it on the development and strengthening of the republic’s economic
complex, is explained by successes achieved by Nagorno Karabakh in
the democratic reforms.
Such moods, in particular, were also observed during Arkady
Ghoukassian’s meeting with the students and teaching staff of the
Michigan University held in the city of An-Harbor the day before, on
November 18. Those present at the meeting were especially interested
in the settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Arkady Ghoukassian,
briefly speaking about the history of the rise of the Nagorno Karabakh
problem, emphasized that official Stepanakert stands for only the
peaceful settlement of the conflict with Azerbaijan in contrast to
Azerbaijan that tries to do it by force. And it takes place regardless
of the fact that Azerbaijan failed once, when perpetrated large-scale
military aggression against Nagorno Karabakh, which yielded to
Azerbaijan in the military equipment and force. “If Azerbaijan was
in mood for peace seriously, it would carry on direct negotiations
with Nagarno Karabakh,” Arkady Ghoukassian announced.
It was noticed during Arkady Ghoukassian’s meeting with the students
and teachers of the school after Alek and Mary Manukians that there is
the necessity of closer contacts between the Armenian high schools of
the US and Artsakh. The President thanked the Manukians for constant
support to Artsakh. Then he visited the museum, which is situated at
the school and also bears the names of Alek and Mary Manukians. Arkady
Ghoukassian with great interest got acquainted with the exposition of
the museum, in particular, with the unique collection of the Armenian
ancient manuscripts, antique household goods, as well as with the
paintings of great Armenian masters Ivan Aivazovsky, Martiros Saryan
and other famous artists.
According to the Head Information Department attached to the NKR
President, a reception in honor of Arkady Ghoukassian was held at
the house of Marta and Diana Shushanians the same evening. The most
influential representatives of the Armenian Community of Detroit were
invited there.
The call for taking an active part in the forthcoming telethon
resounded at all the meetings once again.

GibrahayerGIBRAHAYER e-newsletter
[email protected] r.cyprusnewsletter.com
The largest circulation Armenian online e-newsletter on the WWW
AZERBAIJAN’S DIVISIVE CAMPAIGN AT UNITED NATIONS THREATENS TO DERAIL
KARABAGH PEACE PROCESS
ANCA Washington November 23, 2004 The ANCA, today, issued an appeal to
United States Secretary of State Colin Powell urging him to “strenuously and
publicly oppose” an Azerbaijani-sponsored United Nations resolution which
would seriously undermine the Nagorno Karabagh peace process. The action
follows a strongly worded November 19th House floor statement by
Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chair Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and an earlier
joint letter by the Armenian Caucus Co-chairs calling the resolution
=E2=80=9Cill-advised=E2=80=9D and urging the U.S. take decisive action again=
st the measure.
For m ore info click on=C2=A0
ARMENIAN PARLIAMENTARIANS TO BAKU FOR THE FIRST TIME AFTER THE WAR
“Don’t let the national conscience of the Azerbaijani people be thrown under
the feet of the Armenian Nazis”
24.11.2004=C2=A0 YEREVAN (YERKIR) – The so-called Karabakh Liberation
Organisation (KLO) of Azerbaijan is planning to stage protest demonstrations
against a delegation of Armenian parliamentarians who are scheduled to
participate in Baku in a NATO-sponsored seminar on November 25-27.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 The organisation’s leader, N akif Agi said his or=
ganisation regrets
that the Azeri authorities, who want to prevent the demonstrations, have a
different stance. But “we will not give up,” Agi said, adding the
demonstrations will be held in almost every part of Azerbaijan.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 The KLO has also urged the country’s parliament t=
o ban the entry of
the Armenian delegation to Baku. “We call upon you to act in the national
interest. Don’t let the national conscience of the Azerbaijani people be
thrown under the feet of the Armenian Nazis,” the organisation’s message to
the parliament speaker reads.
DASHNAKTSOUTIUN REPRESENTATIVES ATTEND SOCIALIST INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL,
WOMEN’S BUREAU
Representatives of the A.R.F. Dashnaktsoutiun participated in Socialist
International’s (SI) Council Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, hosted
by the African National Congress (ANC), Dashnaktsoutiun press service
reported. On November 15 and 16, leaders and delegates from 100 member
parties and organisations from 70 countries, discussed the Council’s main
theme,”The Progressive Agenda:priorities for our movement today”
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 Representing the sole party from the South Caucas=
us, Dashnaktsoutiun
Bureau member and the organisation’s representative in Socialist
International Mario Nalbandian, and Dashnaktsoutiun Armenia member Maria
Titizian, also participated in the three panel debates. Titizian partook in
Socialist International Women’s Bureau meeting: “Women Speak out on The UN
Millennium Development Goals,” which took place November 12 and 13.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 The Women’s Bureau addressed UN goals, its effect=
s on the eradication
of poverty and hunger, and examined means to developing global partnerships.
At the heart of discussions was the need to promote gender equality and
empower women to occupy Center stage in the development of the human race.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 The meeting also reviewed increases in gender-bas=
ed violence=E2=80=94from
sexual abuse to systematic rape, forced pregnancies, and continuous
violation of women’s rights. Titizia n had the opportunity to present
Dashnaktsoutiun’s political and social undertakings to empower the women of
Armenia.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 On the sidelines of the Council, the Dashnak repr=
esentatives were
both able to hold numerous meetings with members of various organisations to
review issues of concern to Armenia and Armenians.
DASHNAK AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS CONVENE IN BEIRUT
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 Gibrahayer 24.11.2004:- Delegates from five conti=
nents congregated in
Antelias, Lebanon on November 18 to participate in a three-day conference of
Dashnaktsoutiun-affiliated organizations. Organized by the ARF Bureau, the
conference featured representatives of the Hamazkayin cultural organization,
Homenetmen athletic and scouting organization, and the Armenian Relief
Society.
=C2=A0 Hagop Der Khatchadourian of the ARF Bureau, Maro Minassian of the ARS
Central Executive, Karnig Megerdichian of the Homenetmen Central Executive,
and Megerdich Megerdichian of the Hamazkayin Central Executive opene d the
session with individual remarks, which were followed by a speech delivered
by ARF Bureau representative Hrant Markarian, who stated, “to tap into our
country’s full potential, we must work as a united entity.”
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 Cyprus was also represented at the convention. Ha=
mazkayin Cyprus
“Oshakan” Chapter was represented by its Chairman Arto Tavitian, AYMA – as
the youngest HMEM member – was represented by Adour Karageulian, Nareg
Tavitian, Stepan Costanian and Hagop Manougian, and The Armenian Relief
Society was represented by its Chairperson Vera Tavitian.
=C2=A0 =C2=A0 =C2=A0=C2=A0 The delegation returned to Cyprus on Monday.
=C2=A0=C2=A0 This corner is reserved for local artist Tatiana Ferahian’s com=
ic strips
which are amalgamations of Armenian-Cypriot social commentaries, painted
with her usual wry and ironic humour, to stimulate and encourage awareness
and interest toward our community’s everyday happenings.
EDITORIAL
Dear Friends & Colleagues:
Greetings to you all!
Allow me to share with you today my second article on the EU & Turkey
entitled Turkey: Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow that you might perhaps find
informative. It is being posted on my website, as well as on other
hyperlinked sites relating to Turkey, Armenia and the Caucasus.
This topic is becoming quite a hot one – certainly until 17 December 2004
when the EU Council of Ministers decides whether to endorse the recent
Report of the Commission.
As ever,
Dr. Harry Hagopian, LL.D
TURKEY: Yest erday, Today & Tomorrow
Some commentators have recently opined that Turkey’s adhesion to the EU
would constitute a message of hope, peace, prosperity and democracy. I
welcome hope, peace, prosperity and democracy, and I hail those lofty ideals
anywhere in our broken and polarised world. Nor, for that matter, am I
impermeable toward Turkish membership of our European Union.
However, I simply cannot accept such membership that is spun at the expense
of another people or their history.
You can view the complete article at the following link:
NEWS IN BRIEF
* One state, seven private higher schools and five technical secondary
schools operate in Nagorno Karabakh today. A total of 5,200 students study
there, 3,600 of them study at the Artsakh State University.
* The statistics service of Karabagh has reported that the population of the
Republic counts 146,600.
* An Azeri officer who killed his fellow Armenian officer Gurgen Margarian
with an ax at a Budapest military academy pleaded guilty in court on
Tuesday, saying he took revenge for Armenian attacks on Azeris.
* Olympiakos Nicosia’s recovery looked perkier as they ousted a 1-0 victory
away to Dighenis Morphou with Armenian international Romik Kachadryan
scoring the only goal with a powerful free-kick.
* 30 Armenian citizens, who do not have Russian registration, will be
expelled from the Krasnodar region of Russia according to the decision of
the local court.
* There are 296 HIV cases in Armenia, 280 of whom are Armenian citizens.
Among the infected, 217 are men and 63 women. Four of the patients are
parents.
* Armenian national security officers tracked down and arrested a
42-year-old Yerevan resident who made a false warning about a terrori st
attack in one of the biggest secondary schools in downtown Yerevan on
November 19, forcing the school management and police to evacuate the
students and teachers.
THE CD OF THE WEEK
Mal Barsamian’s FIRST SOLO CD – In Time For Christmas!
Many people say that Mal Barsamian is one of the most versatile Armenian
musicians performing today. Indeed this new recording displays those given
talents. Performing for the first time on CD with his father, Leo Barsamian
(oud), Mal performs clarinet, oud, guitar, alto sax, and dumbeg on this
exciting Armenian dance album. Accompanied on several tracks by Bruce
Gigarjian (guitar) and Ron Tutunjian (dumbeg). Over 60 minutes of non-stop
Armenian dance music by one of the finest musicians performing today.
Contact [email protected]
TATIANA @ EKATE
The EKATE exhibition that opened on 15th of November 2005, at Melina Mercuri
Hall and Famagusta Gate, in Nicosia, was a huge success, featuring works of
more than 120 artists from all over Cyprus, including local Armenian artists
Mariam Foukara, and our very own Tatiana Ferahian, pictured here with the
Interior Minister Mr Andreas Christou. The show runs until the 29th of
November, make sure you don’t miss it.!
g i b r a h a y=C2=A0 =C2=A0 c a l e n d a r
* Cyprus Amateur Football League AYMA vs Coopers at Synikismos 3 Football
Ground (behind the Falcon School) on Saturday 27 November at 2:30 p.m.
* The literary group of The Hamazkayin “Oshagan” Cyprus Chapter is
organising a lecture about the great novelist PAULO=C2=A0 COELHO at 8:00 p.m=
. on
Wednesday 1 December 2004 at the “Vahram Utudjian” Hall of=C2=A0 The Armenia=
n
Prelacy of Cyprus. The lecturer will be the translator of Coelho’s popular
novel “The Alchemist”, Khachig Mouradian, who accompanied=C2=A0 Coelho on hi=
s
recent visit to Armenia. A very interesting lecture, accompanied by
audiovisual material. After the lecture, those who want to take part in an
informal dinner at AYMA, may ring Yura Simonian on 22499889 by Tuesday 30
November 2004.
* STILL ON 8th Exhibition of Armenian Books, under the auspices of
Archbishop Varoujan Hergelian, organised by the Armenian Prelature of
Cyprus, with the participation of Moufflon Bookstore. You can visit the
Exhibition every day from 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. except
weekends. The exhibition will also travel to La rnaca and Limassol.
* Armenian Relief Society “Sosse” Chapter Fund Raising Tea for the ARS
Armenia Projects on Sunday 28 November, 2004 at The Holiday Inn Hotel at
4:00 p.m. Our children will participate in a Fashion Show by GRANT. There
will be Handicraft, Lebanese cookies and home-made delicacies on sale.
Proceeds to the “Sosse” Kindergarten of Stepanakert – Republic of Karabagh.
* Cyprus Dart Championships. AYMA is participating in the Cyprus Dart League
with matches being played every Thursday at AYMA.
* AYF Badanegan Miaoutian get-togethers take place on Saturday at 4:00 p.m.
at AYMA. Contact Vartoog Karageulian on 24-659245.
* AYMA Chicco Football practices take place every Friday from 7:00 – 8:30
p.m for children starting from the age of 7. Contact Krikor Mahdessian on
99650897.
* AYMA Table Tennis practices take place every Saturday from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m
under the expert guidance of ex-Cyprus Champion Sirvart Costanian. Classes
and practice session for all ages.
* AYF meetings every Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. at AYMA
*AYMA Football team practices are taking place every Thursday at 9:00 p.m.
A.Y.M.A. will be participating in the Second Division Amateur Football
League and will be bidding for the Championship Title and subsequent
promotion to Division One. The Championship begins on Saturday November 27,
2004.
* Marie Louise Kouyoumdjian sings @ Champs every Friday at at 9:30 p.m. For
reservations call 22873888.
* Bible Study Group organised by The Armenian Prelature of Cyprus. The Group
meets at the Sourp Asdvadzadzin Church on Armenia street, Nicosia. To
receive further details please call Father Momik Habeshian on 99 307966 or
at the Prelature office on 22 493560 email [email protected] The next
meeting is on Wednesday 24 November at 7 p.m.
* The English School Old Boys and Girls Association is holding its 2004
Annual General Meeting at the ClubHouse on Wednesday December 8 at 7:00 p.m.
A reception will follow. Contact Yiannos Ioannou on 22316861 email
[email protected]
* AYMA Annual Ball at Hilton Park on January 8, 2005 featuring ANDRE.
Reservations a MUST! Book early.
* Armenian Radio Hour on The Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation can be heard
via real audio on . Broadcast times 17:00-18:00 local Cyprus
time (14:00-15:00 GMT) New s bulletins a t 17:15 local time on Sundays,
Tuesdays, Fridays. Armenian Cypriots can also tune in on the following radio
frequencies 91.1 FM (Mount Olympus – for Nicosia listeners) 94.2 FM
(Paralimni/Protaras/Agia Napa) 92.4 FM (Larnaca) 96.5 FM (Paphos).
* The Armenian Prelature announces that the next permit for the Armenian
Cemetery visitation at Ayios Dhometios on the Green line, is scheduled for
Sunday 28 November,2004
* Pentataktylos – Halevka – Buffavento Castle Cycle Ride by MICROMANIA.
Sunday November 28, 2004. Meeting point: Ledra Palace, Turkish checkpoint
Meeting Time: 9.00 am – Bus leaves : 9.30 am – Arrival at Besparmak
Restaurant: 10.30 am – Riding tim e: 2.5 hours – Riding distance: 16 or 28
km (two routes) Bring with you: passport, water, helmet. Cost of bus and
food: approx =C2=A38:00 per person. Bus leaves Besparmak: 2.30 pm. Bus arriv=
es
back: approx 3.30 pm. Level of competence: average Age limit: 12 + Contact
Baret (Duke) Bedelian on 22-661517
* Every Wednesday from 7-8 p.m. (Cyprus time +2 GMT) on CyBC’s Trito, Puzant
Nadjarian presents the “History of the Blues”. You can also hear it on Real
Audio from the Internet edition of CyBC on A repeat program
can also be heard seven hours later at 2:00 a.m. local time.
* Listen to Hairenik Association’s online Armenian Radio Station. A variety
of Armenian music online, 24 hours a day, combined with news and other
interesting information about the Armenian community in the US, Armenia,
Artsakh, Javakhk and the Armenian Diaspora.
=C2=A0 24 Hours of non-stop armenian music and programs on the internet
. . . . . News . . . . . ANC hour . . . . . Song dedications . . . . . Youth
discussions . . . . . Game Shows . . . . . Interviews . . . . . Religious
programs . . . . . Cultural programs . . . . . History . . . . .
Launch Hairenik Radio in your preferred Player,launch Hairenik in your life
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SEARCH FOR MISSING EX-ZOO EMPLOYEE
Star of Mysore, India
Nov 25 2004
Mysore, Nov. 25 (MRS)- The Police, for the first time, have went on
record to say that they suspect the role of a dismissed employee in
the recent deaths of animals in the City Zoo.
Police Commissioner Mr. Praveen Sood, while participating in the
interaction with the media persons yesterday, said that the Police were
searching for the dismissed employee, who is missing since two weeks.
He said till date 31 staff members of Mysore Zoo had been
interrogated. Of these, nine have been subjected to polygraph test.
The findings of the tests were awaited, he added.
But he said the tests finding were subjective evidence and not
conclusive.
The second report sought from the Forensic Science Laboratory over
the cause of death of Komala, the Armenia-bound 8-year-old jumbo,
is awaited. Since investigation is based on scientific reports,
it will take time to unearth the cases of animals deaths, he said.
With regard to the death of Komala, he said they were open-minded
and that they were neither ruling out sabotage nor negligence on the
part of doctors and staff. As a worst-case scenario, Police have
collected samples of Gajalakshmi, another elephant, that suddenly
took ill sometime ago.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Putin visits EU amid Ukraine poll tension
Reuters, UK
Nov 25 2004
THE HAGUE (Reuters) – Russian President Vladimir Putin is meeting
European Union leaders in The Hague for a summit that is expected to
focus on strained ties over Ukraine’s disputed presidential election.
The Union has called on Ukrainian authorities to investigate complaints
about the elections, which it said fell short of international
democratic standards. Russia has accused Europe of meddling and
inciting violence in the former Soviet state.
Putin was welcomed to the Dutch seat of government on Thursday by
Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, who holds the EU’s rotating
presidency. The two men shook hands, smiled and waved at photographers
but did not address waiting journalists.
Mass protests over the Ukraine vote have entered their fourth day
and pro-Western opposition leader Viktor Yushchenko has called for a
general strike to protest at official results showing Prime Minister
Viktor Yanukovich won the election.
Moscow backed Yanukovich throughout the campaign and congratulated
him on his victory before official results.
The Netherlands, speaking on behalf of the EU presidency, demanded
in a statement late on Wednesday that irregularities reported by
international observers be rectified and has said it is sending a
special envoy to Ukraine to meet political leaders.
“The EU has noted that the second round of the presidential elections
last Sunday has fallen far short of international standards for
democratic elections,” it said. “The EU does not believe these results
reflect the will of the Ukrainian people.”
Relations with Russia were already tense before the Ukraine crisis
over the EU’s desire for greater engagement with countries that Moscow
sees as in its sphere of influence.
The bloc expanded in May to take in 10 new members, most of them in
the former communist east, and wants to promote democracy and human
rights in countries now bordering it, and help resolve conflicts in
Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Moscow resists this, fearing a further loss of prestige it has suffered
since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Following EU enlargement, Russia now sends 55 percent of its exports
to the bloc, while the EU in turn is heavily dependent on Russian
energy. But increased economic cooperation has so far not been
reflected in closer political ties.

The Tehran New York Express; Andranik Eskandarian
By Irankicks correspondent Nader Jahanfard
Irankicks.com (Iranian Soccer news)
Nov 25 2004
In Iran the strikers feared him, in Argentina they respected him and
in New York they cherished his style of play. His name is Andranik
Eskandarian and he is one of the most treasured defenders in Iranian
football history.
After Playing for Poolad and Ararat FC of Tehran, he moved to one of
the most famous clubs in Asia called; Taj FC of Tehran (now Esteghlal
FC). He was physical, speedy, smart and fearless.
For many years he played for the Iranian national team as a defender
and he helped Iran reach her first World Cup Finals in 1978
(Argentina). The same year he moved to United States and joined the
star studded football team New York Cosmos.
Andranik or “Eski” as they call him here in United States, is now 53
and he owns his own sports store in New Jersey. I had the honor of
interviewing this man who served his country on the pitch, Iranian
football owes him a lot of admiration for that matter.
I presented Andranik with a series of short questions and he answered
all of them meticulously.
Nader,
Iran?
Eskandarian,
I miss my country. I left Iran in 1978 to come and live here in the
United States. It’s all like a dream now.
We (Armenians) are a small minority in Iran but we are so close to
that soil. We have been living in Iran for centuries and they have
always counted us as one of their own.
People of Iran always respected me, I will never forget my people.
Nader,
Daei?
Eskandarian,
Daei is a good friend of mine. Any time he comes to New York area we
get together and dine. He is one of the greatest football players in
our history, unfortunately I never had the chance to watch him play
in person but I have seen many of his games on TV.
Andranik laughs and says; He is aging like me now!
In Argentina 78 we could have used Daei’s services. Hassan Roshan was
playing with injury and the teams we played against were great on
air. We needed some one to dominate that area for us and Daei could
have been awesome for that position.
Nader,
How about Ghafoor jahani?
Eskandarian,
Ghafoor was a very good player, I don’t want to take anything away
from him. Naturally a team has to have a good chemistry and coaches
are responsible for making that chemistry work for them. Our team had
this advantage.
To give you an example; my son Alecko who plays for D.C.United team
was benched last year because their coach believed in having a
“Target” striker. He told Alecko that he was too small for that role.
This year however, Peter Novak (D.C. United Coach) believed in Alecko
and as result my son became the MVP!
It’s all about the team and believing in players’ potentials.
Nader,
Alecko Eskandarian?
Eskandarian,
They ask me a lot of questions about Alecko these days. I always
advise Alecko on how they treated us in Iran. He was born here in
United States but my wife and I always talk to him about our
homeland.
We have told him that someday we will go back to visit and see Iran
because it is important that he gets to know Iran and feel that
emotion!
Alecko played for the U.S. Olympics team when he was only 15 years
old and so far he has played 20-25 games for the U.S. side.
Because of the international rules and regulations of FIFA he cannot
play for Iran.
Here in New Jersey area he grew up with many Iranian friends, he is
real proud of his heritage, he is proud to have an Iranian
background, he has a great future and I am proud of him.
Believe it or not they even asked me if he could play for the
Armenian national team!
Nader,
Given the chance, what would you like to do for Iran and its
football?
Eskandarian,
First of all let me tell you that I am proud of our fans in Iran, I
will never forget their kindness, I have a lot of great memories. I
would love to play a friendly in Iran with the veteran’s team,
unfortunately no one has ever invited me!
There are many games that are organized for different causes and I
like to be a part of them. Last week here in New Jersey they invited
me to play in a game, they were raising money for a good cause. We
can do the same thing in Iran.
Why don’t we invite the players who played in 1978 World Cup, arrange
a friendly and raise money for the “Bam” or cancer victims for
example?
I want to be part of something like that and help my people.
Nader,
In your opinion, who are Iran’s best players of the past three
decades?
Eskandarian,
Since I have not been living in Iran, I cannot judge everyone. I have
not seen many of our great players’ performance; it would not be fair
to many.
On the other hand, I have to say that our legionnaires have done so
much for our football.
We should applaud them all.
Nader,
What are our chances to make it to the World Cup in Germany 2006?
Eskandarian,
We shouldn’t even use the word “Chance”!
We are still above everyone else in Asia, if sometimes we don’t get
good results it’s because of the internal problems in our football.
No other team in Asia has as much talent as we have in Iran.
We should make it to Germany with ease.
Nader,
Hejazi or Abedzadeh?
Eskandarian,
Hejazi.
I like Nasser Hejazi, he was my roommate, I will never forget him.
In general you have to have special qualities to be a goalie.
Anytime I hear someone wanting to be a goalkeeper I ask him or her;
“Are you crazy enough to be a goalkeeper?”
There is a certain attitude that goes with being a great keeper and
Hejazi had that, he was the ultimate goalie in my book.
Nader,
Who was the toughest forward you ever faced in Iran and abroad?
Eskandarian,
In Iran I played as a sweeper.
We always had problems playing against Persepolis forwards.
Behzadi, Kalani and Iranpak were among the toughest.
I miss the rivalry.
When I played for Cosmos they placed me in different positions,
because I was the only one who could deal with tough situations.
I remember the very first game with Cosmos I played as the right back
against the legendary George best.
The following week they changed my post to left back and I had to
face the great Cubillas from Peru (Cubillas scored three goals
against Iran in Argentina). The third week I went back to the right
position to face the well-known Johan cruyff of Holland.
It was like this every week right to the end of the season.
Nader,
Talk about your best memories?
Eskandarian,
Every game has its own story. But the memory of winning the “Takhte
Jamshid” championship with Taj FC stands above the rest.
Winning the Asian Cup was also real sweet.
Nader,
What is your message for the young players in Iran?
Eskandarian,
Most of us who play football don’t think about the future, the sports
life of a football player is very short. They have got to think about
their future, this can be achieved through education or business
investment.
When I hear things about financial circumstances of some of the
players who have done so much for our football in the past I get
emotional.
I hope that our youth learn their lesson and don’t take things for
granted.
Nothing is everlasting!
Nader,
Mr.Eskandarian, it was a pleasure talking to you.. I wish you and
Alecko the greatest success in the future. Iranian football will
never forget its sweet defender.
I am proud to be your countryman.
Acknowledgments:
Many thanks to Mr.Manook Khodabakhshian and Mr.Hassan Alesafar who
made this interview possible.
By Irankicks correspondent Nader Jahanfard, San Jose California