Author: Babken Chilingarian

Asbarez: ‘Laughter for Life’ Delights Hundreds of Comedy Lovers in LA

Babken Chilingarian
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The Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registy's Comedy Night Committee. Photo courtesy of the ABMDR


Event Benefits ABMDR’s Life-Saving Mission

LOS ANGELES—A capacity audience of nearly 300 supporters attended the 19th annual “Laughter for Life,” the comedy night of the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry. One of the pan-Armenian organization’s most popular benefit events, “Laughter for Life” was held on December 3, at the landmark Comedy Store on the Sunset Strip, in West Hollywood, California.

Long a showcase for cutting-edge stand-up comedy, “Laughter for Life” featured a lineup of acclaimed comedians, including Maz Jobrani, Sam Tripoli, Amir K, Dustin Ybarra, Nicky Paris, Anthony Amorello, and Orny Adams. Sam Tripoli also organized and hosted the event, as he has done ever since co-founding “Laughter for Life” with Lara Yeretsian, Esq., in 2002.

In her welcome remarks, Yeretsian thanked the audience and the event’s sponsors for their support, and shared some stories about ABMDR’s latest activities. Yeretsian said, “We have a stem cell donor from Artsakh, a young woman, who, despite being impacted by the horrific events that have befallen the people of her homeland recently, said ‘yes’ to our request for donating her stem cells, for a chance to save the life of a patient in Germany. And right now, as we’re gathered here, the stem cells of another ABMDR donor are being harvested in Yerevan, to be used for a transplant that can save the life of a patient in Belarus.”

Comedian and longtime ABMDR supporter Maz Jobrani. Photo courtesy of the ABMDR Comedian and “Laughter for Life” co-founder Sam Tripoli. Photo courtesy of the ABMDR

“Just today, we had one more pleasant surprise,” Yeretsian continued. “There was a festive event at the Western Diocese, in Burbank, where Alex, one of our young patients, and his family were collecting toys for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. The event included a raffle drawing, and Alex’s family decided to donate all proceeds from the lottery to ABMDR. So Alex’s parents, who are the proprietors of Rama Drugs, not only donated nearly $8,000 to ABMDR, but are also among the sponsors of tonight’s ‘Laughter for Life.’”     

Afterwards, ABMDR President Dr. Frieda Jordan said, “I think ‘Laughter for Life’ continues to be a hit with audiences because it not only serves up outstanding comedic talent, but also celebrates a beautiful sense of community, with hundreds coming together to support our organization’s life-saving mission.”

Dr. Jordan added, “I would like to thank the great Sam Tripoli, the event’s organizer; our dedicated Comedy Night Committee, chaired by the phenomenal Lara Yeretsian; as well as our generous supporters, sponsors, and volunteers, for making it all possible!”

ABMDR Comedy Night Committee Chairperson Lara Yeretsian (far right) with stand-up comedians and supporters. Photo courtesy of the ABMDR

Major sponsors of “Laughter for Life” included the Comedy Store (the Shore family), The Naughty Show, Sasoun Bakery, Sarkis Pastry, California Gourmet Nuts, Naturewell Vegan Juice and Smoothies, and Zartonk Media. Sponsors also included Feral Cosmetics, MK Loan Consulting, Vatican Banquet Hall, Paulette Malekian (of Engel & Völkers), Yeretsian Law, Mammoth Associates, Daglian Law Group, the Law Offices of Meline Mkrtichian, Arminak Law, Mr. and Mrs. Aram and Marine Papazian, Tazah, the Honorable Zaven Sinanian (of Signature Resolution), Taltech Construction, Dilanchian Chiropractic, and Rama Drugs.

Established in 1999, ABMDR, a nonprofit organization, helps Armenians and non-Armenians worldwide survive life-threatening blood-related illnesses by recruiting and matching donors to those requiring bone marrow stem cell transplants. To date, the registry has recruited over 33,500 donors in 44 countries across four continents, identified over 9,000 patients, and facilitated 41 bone marrow transplants. For more information, call (323) 663-3609 or visit abmdr.am.

Bertrand Bouyx: France stands with Armenia at this difficult moment

Babken Chilingarian
News.am, Armenia
Dec 11 2023
16:28, 11.12.2023

Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, on Monday received Bertrand Bouyx, the head of the French delegation at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), the NA informed.

Welcoming the guest, the NA speaker lauded the warm relations and effective cooperation established between the Armenian and the French delegations at PACE. Also, Simonyan thanked the France-Armenia friendship group consisting of 97 MPs, of which Bouyx is also an active member, for the pro-Armenia activities.

The interlocutors reflected on the deepening and strengthening relations between Armenia and the EU, their dialogue on the liberalization of visas, the possibilities of intensifying their bilateral economic ties, and the steady implementation of democratic processes in Armenia. According to Bertrand Bouyx, it is inspiring that despite the difficult events that took place, democracy in Armenia is strong and visible. Also, the head of the French delegation in the PACE said the ratification of the Rome Statute by the Armenian parliament was an important step.

Speaking about the challenges in Armenia’s region, the parties exchanged views on the progress of negotiations on the peace treaty to be signed between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the immediate return of Armenian captives held in Azerbaijan, and the normalization of Armenia-Turkey relations.

The French guest reaffirmed that his country is committed to Armenian-French friendship and stands with Armenia at this difficult moment.

Armenpress: Congressman Pallone calls for U.S. security assistance to Armenia

Babken Chilingarian

 09:55, 8 December 2023

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 8, ARMENPRESS. U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone has welcomed the prisoner swap agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In a post on X, Pallone reiterated that the U.S. must provide Armenia with security assistance.

“Glad to see that Armenia and Azerbaijan were able to come to an agreement to release 32 Armenian prisoners. This is an important step forward, but the U.S. must provide Armenia with security assistance to ensure a lasting peace in the Caucasus,” the Congressman said.



Russia welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan joint statement

Babken Chilingarian

 14:11, 8 December 2023

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 8, ARMENPRESS. Russia welcomes the prisoner swap deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the Russian foreign ministry has said.

“We welcome the agreement between Baku and Yerevan regarding the release of Armenian and Azerbaijani servicemen,” Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

She added that Russia is ready to “continue providing possible support on unblocking of transport connections, border delimitation, signing of the peace treaty and contacts between civil societies.”

Zakharova said that Russia also welcomes Armenia’s support to the bid of the Republic of Azerbaijan to host the 29th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, by withdrawing its own candidacy.

Following the talks between the Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, an agreement has been reached on taking tangible steps towards building confidence between two countries.

Driven by the values of humanism and as a gesture of goodwill, the Republic of Azerbaijan releases 32 Armenian military servicemen.

In its turn, driven by the values of humanism and as a gesture of goodwill, the Republic of Armenia releases 2 Azerbaijani military servicemen.

As a sign of good gesture, the Republic of Armenia supports the bid of the Republic of Azerbaijan to host the 29th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, by withdrawing its own candidacy. The Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan do hope that the other countries within the Eastern European Group will also support Azerbaijan’s bid to host. As a sign of good gesture, the Republic of Azerbaijan supports the Armenian candidature for Eastern European Group COP Bureau membership.

The Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan will continue their discussions regarding the implementation of more confidence building measures, effective in the near future and call on the international community to support their efforts that will contribute to building mutual trust between two countries and will positively impact the entire South Caucasus region.




For the first time: a joint statement by Armenia and Azerbaijan "to achieve long-awaited peace in the region"

Babken Chilingarian
Dec 7 2023

Armenia-Azerbaijan joint statement

In a historic first, a joint statement from the Office of the Prime Minister of Armenia and the Administration of the President of Azerbaijan declares:

“Baku and Yerevan share the view that this is a historic opportunity to achieve long-awaited peace in the region.”

Both countries affirm their commitment to normalize relations and establish a peace treaty based on respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The agreement includes tangible steps to strengthen trust between the two nations.

Specifically, the document outlines that Azerbaijan releases 32 Armenian servicemen, and Armenia reciprocates by releasing 2 Azerbaijani servicemen.

Official records indicate that Azerbaijan currently detains 55 Armenian prisoners. Armenian human rights activists assert that Baku may be holding an additional 80 Armenians.

The Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan share the view that there is a historical chance to achieve a long-awaited peace in the region. Two countries reconfirm their intention to normalize relations and to reach the peace treaty on the basis of respect for the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Following the talks between the Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, an agreement has been reached on taking tangible steps towards building confidence between two countries.

Driven by the values of humanism and as a gesture of goodwill, the Republic of Azerbaijan releases 32 Armenian military servicemen.

In its turn, driven by the values of humanism and as a gesture of goodwill, the Republic of Armenia releases 2 Azerbaijani military servicemen.

As a sign of good gesture, the Republic of Armenia supports the bid of the Republic of Azerbaijan to host the 29th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, by withdrawing its own candidacy.

The Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan do hope that the other countries within the Eastern European Group will also support Azerbaijan’s bid to host.

As a sign of good gesture, the Republic of Azerbaijan supports the Armenian candidature for Eastern European Group COP Bureau membership.

The Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan will continue their discussions regarding the implementation of more confidence building measures, effective in the near future and call on the international community to support their efforts that will contribute to building mutual trust between two countries and will positively impact the entire South Caucasus region.

https://jam-news.net/armenia-azerbaijan-joint-statement/

US Senate Republicans block Ukraine, Israel aid bill over border dispute

Babken Chilingarian

 10:28, 7 December 2023

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 7, ARMENPRESS. An emergency spending bill to provide billions of dollars in new security assistance for Ukraine and Israel was blocked in the U.S. Senate on Wednesday as Republicans pressed their demands for tougher measures to control immigration at the U.S. border with Mexico, Reuters reports.

The vote was 49 in favor to 51 against, leaving the $110.5 billion measure short of the 60 votes needed in the 100-member Senate to pave the way to start debate.

The bill would provide about $50 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine, as well as money for humanitarian and economic aid for the government in Kyiv, plus $14 billion for Israel as it battles Hamas in Gaza.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, also voted "no" so that he could introduce the measure again in the future. After the vote, Schumer noted the risks if Ukraine falls, saying it was a "serious moment that will have lasting consequences for the 21st century," risking the decline of Western democracy.

Republicans said it was essential to make their case for tighter immigration policies and control of the southern U.S. border.

"Today’s vote is what it takes for the Democratic leader to recognize that Senate Republicans mean what we say," Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said in a floor speech earlier on Wednesday. "Then let’s vote. And then let's finally start meeting America's national security priorities, including right here at home."

Even if the bill passes the Senate, it still would need to be approved in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, where dozens of Republicans have voted against Ukraine aid, including Speaker Mike Johnson.

"Make no mistake, today's vote is going to be long remembered. History is going to judge harshly those who turned their backs on freedom's cause," President Biden said in remarks at the White House.

Republicans contend that excessive illegal immigration across the southern border with Mexico is a hugely important security concern, and say they want more accountability than they are getting from the Biden administration for U.S. taxpayer funds that go to Ukraine.

The emergency spending bill included $20 billion for border security.

Schumer said on Tuesday he would try to break the impasse by offering Republicans the chance to add an amendment on border policy to the legislation.

No such amendment had been announced by Wednesday evening.

Turkish analyst Emre Diner supports peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan

Babken Chilingarian

 13:15, 5 December 2023

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Turkish journalist and analyst Emre Diner participated on December 5 in the New Regional Reality and the Crossroads of Peace expert forum in Yerevan and spoke in favor of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process.
The New Regional Reality and the Crossroads of Peace expert forum is attended by experts from Armenian, Iranian, Indian, Georgian and Turkish analytical centers.
Diner was asked how Armenia and Azerbaijan can achieve peace when Azerbaijan has territorial aspirations against Armenia. He said that he is aware of that but what matters is the final result of the peace process.
“If we want peace in the region, then we must focus only on the peace talks. Doesn’t matter what sometimes is being said from Yerevan, Ankara or Baku. I understand that this is very difficult for ordinary citizens. You don’t have to listen to everything. The three countries must only think about achieving peace. Armenians and Azerbaijanis must negotiate around all contentious issues. No one is saying that the process is easy, but it is necessary to consistently continue, because no one can live in isolation because of the existing problems. Furthermore, the dialogue shouldn’t be an end in itself,” Diner said.
Türkiye wants to establish good relations with Armenia, according Emre Diner.
Diner said he believes in peace in the region and cited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s speech on the need for peaceful coexistence in the region. Emre Diner said that Türkiye wants to have good relations with Armenia. He praised Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan’s participation in Erdogan’s inauguration ceremony. 

Asked on Türkiye’s possible recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Diner said that Türkiye should take that step, and that the recognition could be a good foundation for the development of trilateral relations between Armenia, Türkiye and Azerbaijan in the future.

[see video]

 

Update:
The earlier version of this article contained comments by Mr. Diner made in response to a question about the Armenian Genocide. Mr. Diner has retracted his comments, explaining that he had misunderstood the question and the comments attributed to him do not reflect his opinion.



Central Bank of Armenia: exchange rates and prices of precious metals – 01-12-23

Babken Chilingarian

 17:04, 1 December 2023

YEREVAN, 1 DECEMBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs “Armenpress” that today, 1 December, USD exchange rate up by 0.23 drams to 402.88 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 0.79 drams to 438.70 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.07 drams to 4.47 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.49 drams to 509.52 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price down by 133.82 drams to 26364.96 drams. Silver price up by 0.90 drams to 324.08 drams.

American Armenian Rose Float Association Reveals 2024 Tournament of Roses Float Entry

Babken Chilingarian
by Contributor

 

 December 1, 2023

 

in Community, Latest, News, Top Stories

American Armenian Rose Float Association 2024 Tournament of Roses Float Entry graphic


PASADENA—The American Armenian Rose Float Association, Inc. will present “Armenian Melodies,” for its appearance in the 135th Tournament of Roses. Inspired by the strength of Armenian matriarchs throughout history, “Armenian Melodies” will feature dynamic Armenian mother and daughter figures dressed in vibrant, traditional garb, surrounded by important symbols within Armenian heritage and culture. Tying in perfectly with the 135th Tournament of Roses theme, Celebrating a World of Music, “Armenian Melodies” will showcase several musical instruments endemic to Armenia, on January 1, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.  

Marking its sixth year participating in the Tournament of Roses, AARFA’s “Armenian Melodies” captures the heroism of Armenian mothers as exemplars of determination, resilience and fortitude in the face of centuries of upheaval. Through their steadfast support, Armenian mothers inspire their families and communities to persevere, even through turbulent times.

Armenian birds play a major role on the float, with the crane, chukar and little ringed plover, which are indigenous to the Armenian Highlands, nestled around the mother and daughter, adding depth and character to the rich tableau. Armenian instruments also feature heavily in “Armenian Melodies,” as the name suggests. Traditional wind instruments native to Armenia, including the duduk, shvi, blul and parkapzuk adorn the float, while percussion instruments, the dhol and nagara round out the floral orchestra adding to the spirited tapestry.

Adding to the float’s colorful and meaningful scene, symbolic objects are sprinkled throughout. Besides AARFA’s tricolor Armenian logo, a bushel of pomegranates, which represent good fortune and abundance, perch alongside the mother and daughter. With deep roots in Armenian music and culture, apricots can be found at the front of the float, along with the aforementioned duduk, which is made with apricot wood. Intricate and historic Armenian patterns are highlighted on the mother’s dress, while the “arevakhatch” or sun cross, symbolizing eternal life round out the design of “Armenian Melodies.”

To learn more about AARFA and the “Armenian Melodies” float, please visit AARFA.org, or follow AARFA on Instagram and Facebook.

The American Armenian Rose Parade Float Association mission is to promote and preserve Armenian culture and heritage through float design. AARFA strives to inspire, educate and raise awareness around the rich history, traditions and values of the Armenian community. Through its floats, AARFA hopes to foster unity, understanding and appreciation among people of all backgrounds and create lasting memories for generations to come. 

AARFA is a nonprofit organization for the sole purpose of presenting to the world the American Armenian community’s achievements. Please help AARFA complete this tradition by donating online.

We should help each other to find the right way of development, says Vice Minister of China Civil Affairs

Babken Chilingarian

 18:01,

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 23, ARMENPRESS. The Minister of Labor and Social Affairs of Armenia Narek Mkrtchyan on Thursday received the delegation of the Ministry of Civil Affairs of the People's Republic of China, headed by Vice Minister Zhan Chengfu.

During the meeting, the perspectives of sectoral cooperation and a number of issues of mutual interest were discussed, the ministry said in a press release.

The Minister of Labor and Social Affairs highly appreciated the role of long-standing friendly relations between Armenia and China and in this context emphasized the importance of joint work in the fields of social protection of both countries.

"We have effective cooperation with the Chinese Embassy in Armenia and have implemented many joint projects. We hope that further initiatives with the Ministry of Civil Affairs will also have tangible results," the minister said.

Zhan Chengfu, in turn, thanked for the reception and noted that the members of the delegation were impressed by Armenia.

"Both Armenia and China are developing countries, and we should help each other to find the right way of development. We have a lot to learn from Armenia and a lot of work to do together," said the head of the delegation, adding that they are ready to exchange experience in various fields.

''During the meeting, the parties also referred to the process of providing social support to forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh. Zhan Chengfu noted that they are ready to take necessary steps to overcome the crisis created in Armenia.

As part of the visit, separate discussions with the representatives of the sector with the participation of the delegation members, as well as visits to the care facilities operating under the ministry are planned,'' the ministry said.