ASBAREZ ONLINE [11-19-2004]

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11/19/2004
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WEBSITE AT <;HTTP:// 1) Congress Adopts Key US-Armenia Trade Provision 2) ACF Banquet Delivers Powerful Message 3) 2000 in Paris Demand Vote on Turkey's EU Accession 4) Telethon 2004 Entertainment Line-up 5) Telethon 2004 Domestic and International Broadcast Info 6) Hairenik Association Online Radio Station 7) Tidbits From the Diner 8) WHAT'S LOVE BUT A SECOND HAND EMOTION? 9) Reverb, and Organizations' Obligations 10) LETTERS: 1) Congress Adopts Key US-Armenia Trade Provision Bill Granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations Status to Armenia Headed for Presidential Signature WASHINGTON, DC--The Senate, today, unanimously acted to permanently normalize trade between the US and Armenia, opening the door to expanded economic relations, new commercial opportunities, and the further strengthening of the longstanding bonds between the American and Armenian peoples, reported the Armenian National Committee Of America (ANCA). With the House version of the measure adopted in October, the bill now goes to President Bush for signature. This provision, which grants Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) status to Armenia, was adopted in the final hours of the of the Senate lame-duck session as part of the larger bill, HR 1047--the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act. The bill, which has been held up due to human rights concerns in Laos, was considered following a Senate vote to avert a filibuster of the measure. Armenian Caucus Co-Chairman Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) was the first to raise the issue of Armenia PNTR in Congress. His legislation, HR 528, introduced last year was supported by the Armenian Caucus and cosponsored by 112 other Members of Congress. A companion bill was introduced on the Senate side by Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and cosponsored by 21 other Senators. The strong support for these measures paved the way for their inclusion by members of Congress negotiating the final version of the larger trade measure. "The ANCA welcomes the Congressional passage of the Armenia-PNTR bill and thanks Congressman Knollenberg, Senator McConnell and all those who played a role in securing its passage," said Ken Hachikian, Chairman of the ANCA. "Following Presidential signature of the measure, we look forward to exploring new opportunities to further expand the growing US-Armenia economic relationship." Over the past two years, the ANCA has worked, in Washington, DC and in local communities throughout the country to generate bipartisan support for this trade measure among legislators, including those serving on key trade subcommittees. Over ten thousand pro-Armenia activists sent ANCA WebFaxes to Congress, thousands more made phone calls in support of PNTR, and this important issue was raised in several hundred Congressional visits, both in District Offices and the nation's capital. The sample ANCA WebFax letter for activists included several reasons to support this legislation, among them: - Increased US-Armenia trade and investment advances US foreign policy by strengthening Armenia's free market economic development and integration into the world economy. - Expanded US-Armenia commercial relations will strengthen bilateral relations and reinforces the enduring friendship between the American and Armenian peoples. - Adoption of PNTR for Armenia will help offset - at no cost to US taxpayers - the devastating impact of the dual Turkish and Azerbaijani blockades, estimated by the World Bank as costing Armenia up to a third of its entire GDP (as much as $720 million annually) and half of its exports. The Trade Act of 1974 excluded all Soviet countries from having normal trade relations (NTR) status with the United States. One particular provision of the Act, known as the Jackson-Vanik amendment, required the President to deny NTR to those countries that restricted free emigration. The policy was adopted, in part, in response to Communist government restrictions on the emigration of Jews. According to the terms of the Jackson-Vanik amendment, when the President determines that freedom of emigration rights have been reinstated in a country, normal trade relations may be granted. To maintain NTR, the President must report to Congress twice a year that Jackson-Vanik requirements have been met. While successive Presidents have waived the Jackson-Vanik Amendment restrictions on Armenia during the past decade, the passage of the Knollenberg bill, would grant Armenia permanent normal trade relations status, without the need for semi-yearly Presidential determinations. The text of the Armenia PNTR provision is provided below: Title II, Section 2001 Subtitle A - Miscellaneous Provisions SEC. 2001. TERMINATION OF APPLICATION OF TITLE IV OF THE TRADE ACT OF 1974 TO ARMENIA. (a) FINDINGS. ­ Congress makes the following findings: (1) Armenia has been found to be in full compliance with the freedom of emigration requirements under title IV of the Trade Act of 1974. (2) Armenia acceded to the World Trade Organization on February 5, 2003. (3) Since declaring its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Armenia has made considerable progress in enacting free-market reforms. (4) Armenia has demonstrated a strong desire to build a friendly and cooperative relationship with the United States and has concluded many bilateral treaties and agreements with the United States. (5) Total United States-Armenia bilateral trade for 2002 amounted to more than $134,200,000. (b) PRESIDENTIAL DETERMINATIONS AND EXTENSIONS OF NONDISCRIMINATORY TREATMENT. Notwithstanding any provision of title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 USC. 2431 et seq.), the President may: (1) determine that such title should no longer apply to Armenia; and (2) after making a determination under paragraph (1) with respect to Armenia, proclaim the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of that country. (c) TERMINATION OF APPLICATION OF TITLE IV. On and after the effective date of the extension under subsection (b)(2) of nondiscriminatory treatment to the products of Armenia, title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 shall cease to apply to that country. 2) ACF Banquet Delivers Powerful Message By Jenny Kiljian The Armenian Cultural Foundation, along with 250 of its loyal supporters, gathered on Saturday, November 13, at the Glendale Hilton for its 8th Annual Banquet, under the auspices of Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian of the Western Prelacy of the United States and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western Region Central Committee. After a lavish cocktail hour prior to the reception, the program began with Rima Garabedyan, who roused the patriotism of the audience with her powerful renditions of the national anthems of the United States and Armenia. Welcoming remarks were delivered by master of ceremonies Saro Nazarian. He thanked those people who lovingly and wholeheartedly continue to support each year the activities and events of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation in the Western Region of the United States, noting that in the more than 100 years since its inception, the ARF has always enjoyed the support of the communities it has served. Nazarian specifically thanked ARF Bureau member, Deputy Speaker of Parliament in the Republic of Armenia Vahan Hovhannisian, ARF Bureau member Dr. Vicken Hovsepian, Troshag editor Nazareth Berberian, and ARF East Coast Central Committee representative Zohrab Tazian for their presence that evening. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian then led the audience in prayer, after which guests enjoyed their dinner while listening to the delightful strains of the Artashes Kartalyan Jazz quartet. Following the dinner, Nazarian introduced a short film about the Armenian Revolutionary Federation that was produced by the Armenian Cultural Foundation. The film began with the slogan "Hayootyan Hed, Hayasdani Hamar," (With the people, for the homeland), and was the perfect backdrop for the images of ARF volunteers who fought the Ottoman Empire to defend the Armenian people against extermination. Flags bearing the slogan "Freedom or Death," and the ARF emblem were proudly displayed by their battalions. The film emphasized the importance of the ARF in the political arena at the end of World War I, and how the party demonstrated its leadership in both the battlefield and the state rooms of Europe. The film also highlighted the work of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANC)the grassroots, political lobby of the ARF. The ANC is the oldest grassroots organization in the United States, and is founded on the principles of the American Committee for the Independence of Armenia, started by Vahan Cardashian. The ANC displays the face of the community, and represents issues of importance to Armenian-Americans within the United States. The organizations three priorities are recognition of the Armenian genocide, education about the genocide within school system, and political lobbying through state and local government. Mountainous Karabagh was also a key segment of the film. The ARF has been one of the staunchest supporters for the liberation of the Artsakh region; the bond that the party has established between the diaspora and Armenia is inextricable. The ARF has been able to turn the impossible into a possibility, and has succeeded in giving the people of Armenia and the diaspora hope in a future full of possibilities. Following the film, Nazarian invited ARF Bureau member, Deputy Speaker of Parliament in the Republic of Armenia Vahan Hovhannisian, to deliver his keynote remarks. Hovhannisian expressed that it was a great honor and joy to be present that evening. He commended the audience, saying that talk of the social climate in Armenia, the poverty level, or whether soldiers in Karabagh are well, were not truly pertinent to discuss that evening, because those present continue to be involved in those matters daily, and know that the situation on all fronts is well. Hovhannisian reminded the audience of the ARF motto "A free, independent, and united Armenia," noting that the continual change in the global political climate has often made it necessary to shift their respective priorities. In 1988, unity was the top priority, when the people of Karabagh began their struggle, with no diplomatic solution in sight. 1991, noted Hovhannisian, brought with it the need for the independence of Armenia. "What good was a united Armenia under a fascist regime?" posited the Bureau member, noting that from the mid-90s until present day, the top priority has been to free the Armenian people from unjust and inhumane leadership. "The most dangerous thing for Armenians would be to become disillusioned with independence because of fundamental injustices committed against them," Hovhannisian said. "More people emigrate from Armenia because of injustice rather than poor social conditions. But, we've survived because we continue to fight against injustice." The current year, according to Hovhannisian, also brought with it a new prioritythe freedom of Armenia. In 1918, and 1991, Hovhannisian conceded that the Armenian people were unprepared to be given their independence. But, they accepted it and lived under a new social climate. "It's easy to live as a slave and have no decisions to make. Though you may complain and express your dissatisfaction, you accept that you have no control and your fate is not up to you," expressed Hovhannisian. "You have no responsibility to decide your fate or the fate of your people. We must not become disillusioned because of the difficult decisions that come part and parcel with independence." Hovhannisian emphasized that the determining of one's fate is a tremendous, often overwhelming responsibility. Though Armenia may not have been ready to be free, that freedom has been on the ARF platform since 1890 and that is the central reason, according to Hovhannisian, why the ARF stands behind the government. "In the end, we won't lose our freedom. But, our role is to make this freedom a reality. We can't rest with little victories," urged Hovhannisian. "We've had a mediocre independence, freedom, and unity. But, I can't live in a country of mediocrity. We need and deserve complete independence, freedom, and unity." Chairman of the ARF Western Region Central Committee Hovig Saliba also addressed the audience that evening. "We are one people, and we have one homeland. We live in different regions, under different social conditions. But, we're all Armenian with one homeland," said Saliba, echoing the opening of the film. "There are no issues of 'the homeland' and 'the diaspora.' Rather, there are Armenian issues that our futures are centered around." Saliba touted the importance of the youth in promoting the platform of the ARF, and expressed that the Armenian culture and traditions need to be instilled from an early age in Armenian schools. He also mentioned that various sister organizations of the ARF each play a crucial role in shaping the community and the lives of the youth. The Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) imbues in young Armenians the importance of political involvement and radical thinking; the Armenian General Athletic Union (Homenetmen) provides an opportunity to display athletic prowess and mastery of scouting; Hamazkayin provides a forum to learn about culture and history; and the Armenian Relief Society demonstrates the importance of social work and volunteerism. Saliba also regarded the work of the ANC in getting the youth involved in genocide recognition, issues relating to the Republic of Armenia issues, Artsakh, and within California and federal politics. According to Saliba, however, the salient issue is the recognition of the genocide. The 90th anniversary of the genocide is rapidly approaching, and without more concerted efforts, admonished Saliba, Armenians would soon be marking the first century since the Ottoman Empire tried to exterminate the Armenians. "The genocide must be recognized once and for all. Turkey must be forced to admit its past, and make reparations of Armenian land," he said. "Not I nor any Armenian can imagine Armenia without Ararat." Saliba called on all organizations to work togetheron a united front without political bias, because the genocide was committed against all Armenians regardless of political affiliation. "We also have a responsibility in Armenia. If we don't sustain our homeland, the diaspora will not survive," said Saliba. "We must strengthen our homeland, so that we can persuade more and more people to return to Armenia." The evening closed with Armenian Radio Ensemble of Traditional and Troubadour Music, under the direction of Tovmas Boghossian. The ensemble performed many traditional and troubadour songs, along with their unique renditions of Armenian Revolutionary anthems such as Verkerov Lee and Menk Angeghdz Zeenvor Enk. 3) Paris Rally to Demand Vote on Turkey's EU Accession PARISOver 2,000 French-Armenians gathered at a rally Wednesday at the Palais Bourbon, home to the French National Assembly, to demand that the country's Parliament vote on Turkey's accession to the European Union (EU). Organized by the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, the Armenian Democratic League (Ramgavar party), and the Hai Tahd Committee of France, the rally attracted 22 ministers representing 266 members of French Parliament, 265 of which categorically oppose opening accession talks for Turkey's EU bid. The French National Assembly on October 14 had discussed the issue of Turkish accessionbut did not hold a vote, despite the demand of a large number of political parties and parliamentarians to do so. The French governmentparticularly President Jacques Chiracopposed such a vote, fearing that a majority of the Assembly, including Chirac's own party members, might reject Turkish accession. That result would have undermined Chirac's authority and likely isolated France within Europe. Wednesday's rally took place exactly one month before the EU's December 17 summit, which will set the date on when the EU would begin formal accession talks with Turkey. The vast majority of French voters are opposed to Turkey's accession to the European Union, and rally organizers hope to put pressure on President Chirac to heed public opinion. They are also seeking to make Turkey's recognition of the Armenian genocide a precondition for Turkish entry into the EU. In that context, ARF's Mourad Papazian said that in spite of difficulties, there exists the possibility of gaining the backing of at least one European leader or Prime minister to oppose setting a date for Turkey's accession talks, unless it recognizes the Armenian genocide. "It is impossible for French President Jacques Chirac to turn a deaf ear to the pain and anguish of French Armenian's," said Harout Mardirossian, speaking on behalf of the Armenian National Committee. "Each time that Turkey approaches Europe, it's as if the dagger more deeply penetrates the Armenian psyche." Speaking on behalf of 78 ministers of France's UMP party, Philippe Pemezec revealed that he generally opposes Turkey's EU bid, and more so considering the Cyprus issue and Armenian genocide recognition. The Socialist Party's René Rouquet, representing the 144 Socialist party representatives in French Parliament, and on behalf of the head of that party's block Jean-Marc Hérault, assured they are fully behind the party's official decision to set recognition of the Armenian genocide as a precondition to Turkey's EU entry. According to Rouquet, after meeting with ARF and ANC representative earlier that day, Hérault immediately demanded, from the head of Parliament, the scheduling of a draft law that would criminalize genocide denial in France. Rouquet also revealed that if a categoric effort is made, President Chirac too can be forced to change his stance on the issue. Other ministers, including the president of the France-Armenia Parliamentary Friendship Group François Rochebloine, also addressed the rally. On behalf of the Armenian Democratic League, Varoujan Sirapian appealed to European Armenians to attend the upcoming December 17 rally in Brussels to exert pressure on European leaders. 4) Telethon 2004 Entertainment Line-up GLENDALEAn unprecedented line-up of Armenian folk, jazz, pop, rock, and comedy performances by internationally recognized artists will be featured during the Armenia Fund (AFI) Telethon 2004 Make It Happen broadcast on Thursday, November 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (PST). Armen Chakmakian, a keyboardist for the Grammy award winning band Shadowfax, will lead Telethon 2004's live, seven member house band with renowned oudist and composer John Bilezikjian, while Zulal, the acclaimed New York City based a cappella folk trio of Teni Apelian, Yeraz Markarian, and Anais Alexandra Tekerian, will perform numerous sets throughout the twelve hour international broadcast. The all-star entertainment line-up also includes live performances by Aram Asatryan, Shushan Petrosyan, the Garni Folk Ensemble, Gor Mkhitarian, duduk ensemble Winds of Passion, and Nune Yesayan, as well as two monologues by comedian Vahe Berberian. The broadcast will feature interviews with celebrities, AFI supporters and political leaders from Armenia, Mountainous Karabagh, and the diaspora, as well as construction footage from Armenia and Karabagh, and stories of lives impacted by AFI-initiated infrastructure development projects. Telethon 2004, live from Glendale, California, is a 12-hour event airing throughout the United States, Europe, South America, the Middle East, the CIS, and Armenia. Telethon 2004's goal is to raise funds to complete the remaining 52 miles of the North-South "Backbone" Highway in Karabagh. When completed, the $25 million, 105-mile highway will link 150 towns and villages to provide crucial economic, trade, and development opportunities. Telethon 2004 will also provide continued assistance in health care, education, and infrastructure development in the Republic of Armenia. Detailed domestic and international viewing/broadcast information is available at , or by calling 800.888.8897. Telethon 2004 will also be available in full-motion web-cast at Internet users will be able to view and make secure contributions online. Armenia Fund, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation, is the US West coast affiliate of the "Hayastan" All-Armenia Fund (HAAF). Established in 1994 to facilitate humanitarian assistance to Armenia and Karabagh, HAAF has administered over $100 million in humanitarian, rehabilitation, and construction aid through the united efforts of Armenian communities internationally. 5) Telethon 2004 Domestic and International Broadcast Info The following is a list of US/Canada broadcast information. All broadcast information is listed in viewer local time. Refer to local listings for detailed information, or call AFI at 800.888.8897. Berkeley, CA Comcast Ch. 8 12pm-6pm Boston, MA Game Show Ch. 8pm-11pm Denver, CO Comcast Ch. 15 12pm-6pm Detroit, MI WPXD Ch. 31 4pm-6pm Chicago, IL WJYS Ch. 34/62 7pm-10pm Fresno, CA KJEO Ch. 32 8am-8pm Comcast Ch. 14 8am-8pm Houston, TX KTBU Ch. 55 12pm-6pm Time Warner 55 12pm-6pm Las Vegas, NV Cox Cable Ch. 48 12pm-7pm Los Angeles, CA KSCI Ch. 18 8am-8pm Oakland, CA Comcast Ch. 8 12pm-6pm Milwaukee, WI Time Warner 95 7pm-10pm Minneapolis, MN Time Warner 99 10am-10pm New York Tri State WMBC Ch. 58 2pm-6pm Philadelphia, PA WPPX Ch. 61 4pm-6pm Providence, RI WPXQ Ch. 69 4pm-6pm Salt Lake City, UT KJZZ Ch. 14 9am-1pm Comcast Ch 14 9am-1pm San Diego, CA KSCI Ch. 18 8am-8pm San Francisco, CA KTSF Ch. 26 12pm-6pm San Jose, CA Comcast Ch. 8 12pm-6pm Seattle, WA KBCB Ch. 24 12pm-8pm Comcast Ch 14 12pm-8pm St. Louis, MO Charter Ch. 8 11am-6:30pm Vancouver, BC KBCB Ch. 24 12pm-8pm West Palm Beach, FL WHDT Ch. 59 8pm-11am International viewers in Europe, the CIS, the Middle East and portions of South America (Argentina) may watch and participate in Telethon 2004 via a live satellite feed from Armenia's H1 TV Channel from 7:00PM to 7:00AM. (Armenia time--Greenwich Mean Time plus three). Viewers may also watch Telethon 2004 on both MGN/Paradise and Horizon Armenian TV via cable and/or satellite television. Telethon 2004 will also be available in full-motion web-cast on Internet users will be able to view and make secure contributions online. The broadcast will feature live entertainment, interviews with numerous celebrities and political leaders, development and construction footage from Armenia and Karabagh and stories of individuals impacted by AFI projects For more information on Telethon 2004, call AFI at 800.888.8897 or visit 6) Hairenik Association Online Radio Station WATERTOWNThe Hairenik Association Inc. formally launched its new internet radio station, Hairenik Online Radio Station, which broadcasts Armenian music and news about Armenia, Artsakh, Javakhk, and the Armenian diaspora 24 hours a day. The station began broadcasting with a music-only format on August 10, and has since been updating its musical selection and conducting small promotions to test the interest of listeners. "The response from our listeners has been overwhelmingly positive," says Jirayr Buegekian, Programming Director. "The number of listeners is increasing steadily and emails of encouragement are pouring in. We have regular listeners in more than 35 countries!" A measure of that popularity was reflected in a recent report, which appeared on the website of California's Fresno Bee newspaper, citing the unique programming provided by the station. Hairenik Online Radio started broadcasting an expanded format. "We were currently broadcasting music 24 hours a day. Based on listener requests, we expanded the format to also include some news, interviews, and special programs for children," reveals Buegekian. But the station maintains music at the heart of its programming. Prior to launching the online radio station, the Hairenik Association worked with Bentley College in Massachusetts to undertake a study on the viability of launching an internet radio station. Based on those findings, Hairenik Online Radio will reserve at least 80 percent of its airtime for Armenian music. "Although we think our listeners will enjoy the expanded format, we remain committed to broadcasting lots and lots of music," stated Buegekian. The Hairenik Online Radio can be accessed via the web site of the Hairenik Association (), which also includes an online bookstore and the online versions of its two newspapers, the Armenian language "Hairenik Weekly" and the English language "Armenian Weekly." Hairenik Online Radio can also be accessed at and selecting the media player of your choice. 7) Tidbits From the Diner By Tatul The November snow had covered the sidewalk and the steps leading to the entrance of the Diner. There was a chill in the New England air that seemed to linger long after the announcement of the presidential election results. I was pleased with the warmth that greeted me insidealong with the smell of bacon and Greek sausage sizzling somewhere in the kitchen. I looked around and, sure enough, Marty was already there, sitting alone at his usual corner, uncluttered by his usual stack of newspapers. "Hi, Marty," I said, settling down across him, "Where are all the papers… and where's Arty?" Without saying a word, he pushed an envelope across the table. I noticed the Canadian postage stamp and a return address in Montreal. "I didn't know Arty had relatives in Montreal," I said, handing the envelope back to him. He doesn't," said Marty. I guess he is vacationing," I said, "They do have a great Casino…" Nothing like that," replied Marty, "He wants to move to Canada." What for?" He says he wants to live in a civilized country. He's convinced that the US is slowly retreating into the dark world of robber barons and sweat shops…" Marty looked tired and dejected; I would have said discouraged, if I didn't know him better. He had seen action in Korea, as a rifleman, losing the tip of his trigger finger in a firefight and returning home with a Purple Heart. I knew that Arty, his junior by several years, had served in Vietnam with the Marines, but he seldom, if ever, talked about it. "What makes him so pessimistic?" I asked, "Is it because Kerry lost the election?" "Not so much that," mumbled Marty, "I think it is the realization that more than fifty-percent of American voters put their faith in Bush and what he stands for…" His voice trailed off as his eyes wandered outside the window where it had started to snow again. "Fear is a powerful motivator," I said, "and dangerous when it's the sole motivator; but in this case." "Greed," he said, "Greed and fear. A twisted partnership of an overfed, greedy establishment and a misinformed, terrorized working class… No wonder Arty got panicky and…" "Don't forget the "morality" issue," I interjected, "It must have played an important part, along with greed and fear." "What sort of morality are you talking about?" He seemed to be waiting for an answer, but continued, "How can morality exist in a system powered mostly by greed and fear? In this case, it is the Bible belt high-jacked by born-again GOP radicals and used to discipline the wayward, wicked liberals." "Whatever happened to the separation of church and state?" "Good question," said Marty, pulling out Arty's letter from its envelope. "Let me read what he says on that issue." His eyes scanned the open sheet of paper covered with Arty's surprisingly neat handwriting, stopping at a point close to the bottom of the letter. "Listen to this," he said: "…after fighting a stubborn enemy for a certain length of time, you begin to resemble him. Our government has declared war against Islamic fanatics, against radical groups like the Hazbullahwhich translated means 'Party of God', POG, for short. The party in power in Washington, the GOP, the 'Grand Old Party' of the past, is slowly becoming a mirror image of POG, the Party of Godthey both have stopped listening to the people and talk directly to Godsoon GOP will stand for 'God's Own Party,' with Bush as its prophet… So I left, before that happens, before Homeland Security evolves into a new Inquisition, hunting down and burning at the stake dissenters and old Vietnam war protesters, like me. You guys are going to need help. May the gods of our forefathers keep and protect you." "Amen," I whispered. 8) WHAT'S LOVE BUT A SECOND HAND EMOTION? By Skeptik Sinikian Skeptik tries to find out if true love can be found through a computer So last week I decided to venture into the world of online dating for Armenian singles. I must admit that I haven't had the time to conduct this experiment in the most scientific way possible. I had it all planned out to the last detail last week. The goal was to register my friends on these websites, monitor their activities, and see if online dating really works for Armenians. My prediction is that the idea of finding love through the internet is a pipe dream but we'll have to wait and see the results before passing final judgment. Before I get into the actual details of my experiment, I have to tell my readers that of all the columns I have written, last week's column elicited the greatest response yet. I didn't know whether to smile or cry, so I laughed until I cried and then sat down to begin my great experiment. Day 1: Monday, November 15, 2004RegistrationWow, it's free! Since there's no cost to registering on these websites, I decided to register on one of the many Armenian singles sites in order to do some further research before creating my friends' profiles. I registered as myselfSkeptik Sinikian on "Hye Singles" (HS). I put up the best picture of myself I could find and began answering the questions that HS had presented in order to determine who my ideal match would be. After reading some of the questions which included such gems as "If you had magical powers, how would you use them to help society?" and "How do you feel about the ethnic Armenian separatist conflict against the Azeri government?" I decided that this will take a little bit more thought than I had originally anticipated. I logged off and went to grab coffee. By the way, I chose "Skeptik" as my HS profile nickname. So much for creativity. Day 2: Tuesday, November 16, 2004There's no such thing as a free lunch: I had had a full breakfast of cold lahmajoun and an apple. I had read the morning paper and was in a good mood. I logged onto my profile and had already received 2 "flirts." For those of you who don't know what "flirts" are, they are a method for users of HS to contact one another in what will be interpreted as the internet equivalent of "Can I buy you a drink." My two "flirts" were from individuals who thought I was apparently "hot." Here is a sampling of the "flirts" I received: "Hello Skeptik. Wow, you're hot! I feel as though we have know each other for ever. Email me! I'm waiting for you... " So in spite of the fact that this message gave me visions of some quiet, innocent looking Armenian girl breaking into my apartment to boil my pet rabbits, I decided to respond anyway. Interestingly enough, if I wanted to send this young, potentially psychotic girl who claimed to feel "as though we have know [sic] each other for ever," I would have to upgrade my membership to the platinum level. The least expensive of these services would cost me a mere $29.95 per month with a $29.95 initial fee. Apparently the best things in life aren't free. The only thing standing between me and my potentially psychotic soul mate was a mere $59.90. I decided to continue living the frugal life and not respond to my "flirts." Day 3: November 17, 2004Answering life's difficult questions: I finally got around to answering HS's questions. Here's a sampling of the questions and my responses to them. I tried to be as honest as I could. By the way, these are actual questions and my actual responses. Describe the perfect evening or weekend: Mid 70s with a slight offshore breeze. Do you believe in love at first sight?: I believe the question discriminates against blind people and since true love is blind, I will not answer this question. How do you feel about the ethnic Armenian separatist conflict against the Azeri government?: I fully support the right of the people of Karabagh to seek self-determination and relinquish any ties to the illegitimate Stalinist Soviet borders imposed upon them. What do your friends tease you about the most?: My friends tease me about my punctuality. They are always making fun of me for being on time or early to everything. They also tease me about my SARCASM!!! Interest for using this site (to find a cyber pen pal, lover, etc.): Yes, my motivation is to find a cyber pen pal...idiots!! What the heck is a cyber pen pal!? Here's the deal. I'm on this website to conduct an experiment to see if it is indeed possible for Armenians to meet each other using this medium. For more details on my experiment, you can refer to my blog at I'm also seeking actors and actresses for an Armenian Soap Opera I'm working on called "Ashkharuh Bududoomah" (As the World Turns). Any interested aspiring actors or actresses should email me. Okay, satisfied with my answers, I log off. I have yet to convince my friends to create their profiles and join me in this experiment. Day 4: Wednesday, November 17, 2004The Profile Nazi censors Skeptik: I try to log on only to find that my profile has been suspended. I wonder if HS has caught on to the fact that I'm doing an experiment and not in search of TRUE LOVE like everyone else on the sight. I begin to panic thinking my cover has been blown and the Hye Singles Security Squad will break down my door and take me away to re-education camp where I will learn to give more conformist responses to questions like "What is your ideal age for marriage?" or "If you had to identify with one animal, which would it be and why?" I start packing a small suitcase of clothes, a sock full of change that totals $37.48 and my passport, just in case I have to flee the country to Canada or Mexico. After great deliberation, I decide to email the World Single Network and inquire about the suspension. I wait an entire day with no response. Potential lovers are being denied access to Skeptik. This is wrong on so many levels. Day 5: Thursday, November 18, 2004Back on track: I log on and find an email response to my previous day's inquiry. At least someone is working on this website every day. Sort of reassuring I suppose. Here's what the email said. Hello, As delineated in the terms section, member profiles may not be used for commercial promotional purposes (casting calls). You may however use the Message Boards to raise this topic. Your profile has been reinstated. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation. WS Staff Apparently my mention of my fictitious Armenian soap opera was enough to shut me down. I removed the information about my potential program and continued my experiment. Day 6: Friday, November 19, 2004One is the loneliest number: Thus far, I have received 28 hits on my profile. I have received one email from a loyal reader of Asbarez and have received two more "flirts" bringing my "flirt" total to four. I've received some encouraging and supportive emails from Asbarez readersmostly women. The experiment may have hit a snag. Tomorrow I will create the other profiles and make them appear as genuine and generic as possible. Where it asks the ideal age for marriage, I will put down 1925 for women and 30-39 for men! Where it asks what animal I most resemble, I will put down a Mercedes Benz! I will play their game and I will find out what makes these Armenian singles tick... End of Week 1 log. Be sure to read next when I begin to reveal some of the more bizarre dating experience stories that people have emailed me during the course of these last two weeks. Skeptik Sinikian is not a licensed relationship counselor or a psychologist. The last experiment he conducted was adding basturmah and string cheese to a home made Hawaiian pizza. The results were inconclusive. He can be reached at [email protected] or visit his blog at 9) Reverb, and Organizations' Obligations By Garen Yegparian Fortune smiles upon us. A letter to the editor appeared in Asbarez a few weeks back, containing, among some reasonable issues, the very same inane assertions about Bush's "largest ever" vote tally. In addition, two letters in the November 7 Los Angeles Times, one by a fellow Armenian, also make the same grandiose assertion. Need I say more about the right wing propaganda machine's echo chamber? They just keep screaming the same thing until nothing else is audible and it becomes 'truth!' But let's address a different, actually valid, concern raised in the Asbarez letter, overlooking the cheap shot at our organizations marching "in lock step" with Democrats. Briefly, the issue is: Should Armenian organizations consider a broad range of issues, not just "narrow" Armenian ones, in deciding which candidate to support? Do the right to life groups, NRA, Sierra Club, AIPAC, NAM, Emily's List, etc. make their endorsements based on a broad range of issues? Of course not. Were they to do something that foolish, they would lose their constituencies in a heartbeat. It's not their job or place to do that. The people who support these and other groups look to them for clear, concise information based on the area of civic life they work on. Then the "sophisticated" voter weighs all the political input and votes accordingly. Unfortunately, sophisticated voters are not the norm, YET, in the Armenian community of the United States*. So why should Armenian organizations functioning in the American political arena behave any differently? More appropriate, however, is to point out why this kind of question is posed. A hidden agenda is masked by a purported concern for "Armenian-American" needs. The very term "Armenian-American" betrays much. Inherently, it deems us Americans with some Armenian flavor, as opposed to Armenians who are citizens of the United States of America. It confuses nationality and citizenship, two distinct political realities. The real intent of those posing these "questions" is to promote their right wing econo-socio-political goals. It is a tried and true tactic. The Soviets even used it. By nominally espousing benevolent and necessary economic and social programs, they masked the actual political tyranny. Such rich ironydiametrically opposed political ideologies using identical tactics. Though I suspect what really unites them is their cohorts' dictatorial inclinations. Be alert. *See "Armenian Electoral-Political (Im)Maturity," February 14 Asbarez, March 27 The Armenian Weekly. 10) LETTERS: Dear Editor: What Now I am a long time subscriber to Asbarez. For months I have been reading articles in your newspaper highly critical and, often, with insulting remarks towards President Bush. To make matters worse, I noticed that in your post-election issues, the diatribe against President Bush continues. Not only was I upset with the tone of your articles, but was saddened more so by the fact that we revealed a lack of political savvy by placing all our eggs in one political basket once again. In Southern California (and most likely throughout the country), our Armenian political parties took a pro-Kerry position in the hopes that he will recognize the Armenian genocide. As much as any other Armenian, I also hope and pray that the Armenian genocide will someday be recognized by the American government; however, given the current geopolitical reality, it was naive that our Armenian leaders believed that Senator Kerry can deliver on this campaign promise when as we all know, past presidentsboth Republican and Democratunder tremendous pressure from the State Department, have refrained from doing so. It should have behooved our Armenian leaders (and your paper) to adopt a more balanced policy towards the candidates. Just to remind you, most corporations contribute money to candidates of both parties so that they have leverage with either winning candidate. Why couldn't we be smarter and exercise wiser diplomacy so that no matter what the election results may be, we would have leverage. As the heading of this letter states, we will obviously have to work through our friends, both Republicans and Democrats in Congress, to do fence mending with the Bush administration. Also, those of us who have been supportive of the President should write letters to him, as well as to the Speaker of the House and the Senate Majority leader, encouraging them to do what is morally right and recognize the Armenian genocide. I for one, as a life long Republican, will do so. Futhermore, I hope that this may be a lesson for our leaders to exercise smarter diplomacy in the future. We should learn not to act through our hearts alone, but through our head as well. Perry Maljian All subscription inquiries and changes must be made through the proper carrier and not Asbarez Online. ASBAREZ ONLINE does not transmit address changes and subscription requests. (c) 2004 ASBAREZ ONLINE. All Rights Reserved. ASBAREZ provides this news service to ARMENIAN NEWS NETWORK members for academic research or personal use only and may not be reproduced in or through mass media outlets. --Boundary_(ID_Iwk+l6zRQwFNs95sRf6d/w)--