AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI IS DEAD?
News.am
13:45 / 10/15/2009
Iranian opposition leaders spread information about the death
of Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to
the sources, October 12 Ali Khamenei fainted and was immediately
hospitalized at 2:15 p.m. local time.
According to the source, Ayatollah is in coma. However, the opposition
claims that Supreme leader has died.
Khamenei’s health has recently become worth
IN YSU FACULTY OF SCIENCE DEVELOPMENT WILL BE OPENED IN THE NEAREST FUTURE – PRESIDENT OF ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF ARMENIA
ARKA
Oct 14, 2009
YEREVAN, October 14. /ARKA/. In the nearest future Faculty of
Science Development will be opened in Yerevan State University,
said Radik Martirosyan, President of Academy of Sciences of Armenia,
Academician on Wednesday during signing an agreement of cooperation
between Academy of Sciences and YSU.
"Issues of staff policy in the sphere of Armenian science are priority
for us. By signing the agreement we aim to open a new faculty in
YSU of Armenian science development which will prepare managers and
marketing specialists", said Martirosyan.
Currently they consider the issue of the date of opening the faculty.
Currently, one of the main tasks of the academy is the problem of
development of constructive program of preparation of new specialists
who will be able to develop Armenian science in accordance with the
development of scientific-technical society.
Strengthening of cooperation between the Academy of Sciences of Armenia
and the Yerevan State University will assist in the achievement of
this goal", said the President of Academy. Cooperation between the
Academy and YSU had always been on a high level. For example, 2000
scientific workers of the Academy from 4000 are working in Yerevan
State University.
Aram Simonyan, Rector of YSU said that the Academy will closely
cooperate also with other study institutions of the country.
"All other universities also should cooperate with the National
Academy for the development of Armenian science", said Simonyan.
YSU was established on May 16, 1919. At that time there were
two faculties – natural and public sciences. In 1991 there were
already 17 faculties in YSU which were preparing specialists by 32
professions. Till now YSU had 90 graduates. In 22 faculties of the
University about13 thousand students are studying.
PRESIDENT SARGSYAN STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF INJECTIONS
Aysor.am
Tuesday, October 13
During yesterday’s meeting between President Sargsyan and Executive
Directors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) the parties highly
appreciated the amiable relations between Armenia and IMF.
IMF’s representatives underlined that Armenia had shown its best side
fulfilling all the obligations, reports Cabinet’s press office.
Stressing the importance of financial and consulting support of IMF,
Mr. Sargsyan noted that IMF’s role is great in country’s achievements
since it had declared its independence.
He expressed hope that the IMF will continue its assistance,
and Armenia in its turn is ready to continue reforming as well as
developing cooperation.
The sides shared views on key-issues caused by global crisis in
economical and financial fields. President Sargsyan presented
the current stage of economy in Armenia, told the measures taken
to prevent the impact of crisis and its consequences. Noting that
complex and necessary decisions which have been made Mr. Sargsyan
pointed that everything possible is done for the effective use of
available capacity and resources.
Parties pointed the importance of long-lasting and serial activities
to increase business environment and structural reforms.
IMF’s representatives assured their openness to promote the solutions
of problems in Armenia.
PRESS OFFICE
Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
630 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Contact: Karine Abalyan
Tel: (212) 686-0710; Fax: (212) 779-3558
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
October 12, 2009
____________________________________________ ___
PRIMATE VISITS ST. KEVORK ARMENIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON, TX AS COMMUNITY
CELEBRATES LEGACY OF GOMIDAS
Day’s Events Include Recognition of Longtime Parishioners, Blessing of New
Kitchen
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church
of America (Eastern), visited St. Kevork Armenian Church of Houston, TX, on
Sunday, October 4, as the community gathered to mark the 140th anniversary
of the birth of Gomidas, to honor longtime parishioners, and to celebrate
the opening of its renovated kitchen.
During his visit, the Primate presented the Diocesan "St. Vartan Award" to
Mr. and Mrs. Zohrab and Arpi Tcholakian and Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Barbara
Hagopian for their many years of service to the Armenian Church. Both
couples are longtime members of the St. Kevork Church, having served on the
Parish Council, the Women’s Guild, and other organizations.
"The church is always in their hearts"
The "St. Vartan Award" recipients, Zohrab and Arpi Tcholakian, came to the
U.S. from Beirut, Lebanon in the mid-1970s. After living in Los Angeles,
they eventually settled in Houston, where they became active in the local
Armenian community and were involved in the building of St. Kevork Church.
Following a successful career in architecture, Mr. Zohrab Tcholakian opened
a deli with his wife, Arpi. The couple later expanded the business,
establishing a large supermarket.
Called Phoenicia Specialty Foods, the supermarket carries Armenian imports
as well as products from Greece, France, Lebanon, and other parts of the
world. The Tcholakians often donate food for church events and are known in
the community for employing newly arriving Armenian immigrants at their
Houston store.
"They are very successful, and at the same time very humble," said Parish
Council chair Vreij Kolandjian. "The church is always in their hearts."
The other "St. Vartan Award" recipients, Sam and Barbara Hagopian, moved to
Houston in 1979 from the East Coast, where they attended St. Sarkis Armenian
Church in Niagara Falls, NY, and St. Paul Armenian Church in Syracuse, NY.
In Texas, the couple ran a pest fumigation company and later started a
successful real estate business. Much of their free time was spent
volunteering at church and Armenian community events.
"They keep supporting the church," said Mr. Kolandjian. "They have been
active in every way they can."
The Primate also presented certificates of recognition to Parish Council
members, including vice chair Sarkis Ohanian, secretary Dikran Kismisian,
treasurer Paul Visser, assistant treasurer Helen Marout, and members Arminee
Keshishian and Armond Partian.
Also honored were Deacons Hovig and Vrouir Frankian, organist Nancy
Tutunjian, Stepan Nazarian, and Karabet Balyan.
Armenian School Board chair Christine Kolandjian awarded an honorary diploma
to Kayane Haroutounian for her 10 years of service to the Armenian School.
She was also presented with a bust of writer and poet Khachatur Abovyan on
the occasion of the 200th anniversary of Abovyan’s birth.
Celebrating the work of Gomidas
During a luncheon and program dedicated to the celebration of the 140th
anniversary of the birth of Gomidas, Armenian School students performed
Gomidas’s song "Gakavig" while choir members sang "Kele-Kele," "Alakyaz,"
and "Mer Turaneh."
The Rev. Fr. Zenob Nalbandian, pastor of St. Kevork Church, spoke about the
life and work of Gomidas, including his birth in the Ottoman Empire in 1869,
his survival of the Armenian Genocide, and his tragic death in Paris in
1935. Fr. Nalbandian performed the songs "Mogats Mirzeh" and "Hayastan."
"Armenian music would not have been the same without the immense
contribution of Gomidas Vartabed, without his commitment to preserving our
rich heritage," the Primate said. "It is inspiring to see the St. Kevork
Church family gather to remember his work, and to share it with the young
people of this community."
The program also featured the viewing of a filmed concert by soprano Isabel
Bayrakdarian.
"It was a lovely program," Fr. Nalbandian said, adding that it’s important
for parishioners, especially for the young generation, to celebrate the
legacy of one of the greatest Armenian musicians.
Another highlight of the day was the blessing and opening of the parish’s
renovated kitchen – a project generously sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Arno and
Lilik Krbashyan and Mr. and Mrs. Henrik and Aida Nazarian.
Archbishop Barsamian blessed the new facility. A wall plaque honoring the
Krbashyan and Nazarian families was unveiled in the church hall.
###
Photos attached (by Andre Melikian).
Photo 1: Archbishop Khajag Barsamian honors Mr. and Mrs. Zohrab and Arpi
Tcholakian at St. Kevork Armenian Church of Houston, TX.
Photo 2: Archbishop Khajag Barsamian honors Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Barbara
Hagopian at St. Kevork Armenian Church of Houston, TX.
Photo 3: Mrs. Aida Nazarian and Mrs. Lilik Krbashyan cut the ribbon at the
opening ceremony of the new kitchen at St. Kevork Armenian Church of
Houston, TX.
Photo 4: Parish Council chair Vreij Kolandjian, Armenian School Board chair
Christine Kolandjian, Mr. Zohrab Tcholakian, Mrs. Arpi Tcholakian,
Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Mrs. Barbara Hagopian, Mr. Sam Vrej Hagopian,
the Rev. Fr. Zenob Nalbandian, and Ann-Marie Tcholakian.
Turkey’s FM tells crisis moments in Armenia deal
The crisis was overcome after both sides agreed not to make remarks
after the signature ceremony, Davutoglu said.
p?id=48302
Sunday, 11 October 2009 13:58
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Sunday the crisis
experienced yesterday in Zurich prior to the signature ceremony of
protocols between Turkey and Armenia was "a procedural matter".
Speaking on Turkey’s state-run TRT TV channel on Sunday, Davutoglu said
that the signing of the protocols was a "crucial step".
The protocols are a reflection of Turkey’s peaceful vision, Davutoglu
stressed.
The crisis lived prior to the signature ceremony was a "natural
component of the process. The crisis was a procedural issue, Davutoglu
said.
The crisis was overcome after both sides agreed not to make remarks
after the signature ceremony, Davutoglu said. "The crisis had to do
with expressions that were to be made during the ceremony".
Turkey’s perspective is comprehensive peace. This would be possible if
all sides reach issues in a just and equal way, Davutoglu noted.
Bilateral relations between Turkey and Armenia have entered a new
period, Davutoglu said.
With this new period, the peoples of Turkey and Armenia will be able to
understand each other more accurately, Davutoglu stressed.
The solution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict is crucial. Turkey
took steps for the solution of the conflict, Davutoglu said.
It is out of question for Turkey to leave Azerbaijan alone whatever the
conditions may be, Davutoglu said.
Since the Kars Treaty, Turkey and Armenia have signed the first
different document. The protocol signed defined Turkish-Armenian
relations and placed relations within a frame, Davutoglu said.
Once the protocols go into effect, relations between Turkey and Armenia
will be normalized. Turkey recognized Armenia as a state and kept its
borders open until the occupation in 1993, Davutoglu said.
The protocols will facilitate greater cooperation between Turkey and
Armenia at international forums and will help end mutual pre-conceived
notions in the minds of our peoples, Davutoglu said.
Turkey has confidence in itself. The engine of surrounding countries is
Turkey, Davutoglu said.
We do not want a poor neighbor. Our neighbor should get richer but
should have respect for the rights of another neighbor. Occupation in
all territories should end. As the macro vision develops, micro crisis
lose significance with time, Davutoglu said.
The Kars Treaty was one that defined the borders. Such treaties do not
lose legitimacy even if the governments do not exist any more. The
protocol signed on Saturday has an article that refers to the
recognition of the existing borders (between Turkey and Armenia). We
have no concerns about the recognition of the borders, Davutoglu also
said.
Armenian National Committee of America
1711 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Tel. (202) 775-1918
Fax. (202) 775-5648
Email. [email protected]
Internet
PRESS RELEASE
October 10, 2009
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918
ARMENIAN CAUCUS AGAINST PROTOCOLS’ HISTORICAL COMMISSION
— Urge Secretary Clinton to End Exclusion
of Armenian American Community; Prevent
"Turkish Bullying of our Armenian Ally"
WASHINGTON, DC – On the eve of the signing of the Turkey-
Armenia protocols, Congressional Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs
Frank Pallone (D-NJ) and Mark Kirk (R-IL) were joined by
lead Armenian Genocide Resolution sponsors Adam Schiff (D-
CA) and George Radanovich (R-CA) in expressing concerns
about a provision in the agreements that the Turkish
government is already using to call into question the truth
of the Armenian Genocide, reported the Armenian National
Committee of America (ANCA).
"As leaders of the Armenia Caucus in the House of
Representatives, we share the concern of the Armenian-
American community regarding the possibility of creating a
historical commission to review the events of 1915 to 1923.
This is a thoroughly discredited idea," noted the
legislators in joint statement. "Turkey cannot be allowed
to re-invent this tragic part of its history as a price for
normal relations with Armenia. To do so means acquiescence
in a charade that demeans the memory of so many victims."
The statement went on to urge the Obama Administration to
include the Armenian American community in the Turkey-
Armenia negotiation efforts. "As Secretary of State Clinton
and other senior officials work to maintain stability in
the region, we urge them to take advantage of the knowledge
and expertise of the Armenian-American community, which
maintains strong ties to Armenia and is an invaluable
source of information and counsel," stated the legislators.
U.S. Department of Justice records show that Secretary of
State Clinton, National Security Advisor Jones and other
Administration officials have spoken repeatedly with
Turkey’s paid foreign agents, former House Speaker Dennis
Hastert and former House Minority leader Dick Gephardt, but
have not agreed to meet with ANCA representatives, despite
repeated requests.
The Congressional Caucus leaders also cited the stark
difference "in economic, military and diplomatic power
between Turkey and Armenia," and urged the Administration
to, "work to ensure that our diplomatic efforts serve to
end the Turkish blockade of Armenia, without Turkish
bullying of our Armenian ally into unwarranted concessions
or a whitewash of one of history’s true horrors."
HOTEL PARKING LOT SCENE OF SHOOTING
insideTORONTO.com
Oct 08, 2009 – 5:50 PM
Hotel parking lot scene of shooting. Officers inspect evidence at
the scene of a shooting that took place on Hall Crown Place Thursday
afternoon. Staff photo/ANDREW PALAMARCHUK A man was seriously hurt
in a drug-related shooting outside the Radisson Hotel on Hallcrown
Place near Victoria Park Avenue and Consumers Road Thursday, Oct. 8.
"Police located a crime scene in the parking lot. They located blood
and drugs," Const. Tony Vella said. "The man who was shot left in
a silver Honda Accord. I don’t know if he was the passenger or the
driver."
The car and the victim turned up at Humber River Regional Hospital’s
Finch site a short time after the 12:46 p.m. gunfire.
The three male suspects fled in a black Honda with Quebec plates. It
appears the two Hondas collided in the hotel parking lot.
"The victim’s vehicle was originally chasing the black Honda,"
Vella said.
Scott Purkis heard the crash and saw a black car with a large dent on
the driver’s side door leave the scene. "I saw a silver car with the
bumper hanging off the front maybe about 15 seconds later," Purkis
said. "There was definitely damage to both cars."
The silver car’s bumper fell off in the parking lot. Police also
found a baseball cap and a shoe at the scene.
The victim was listed in stable condition and is expected to survive.
"It’s scary, very scary," said Purkis. "But these things can happen
anywhere."
Police have vague descriptions of the suspects, who wore dark clothes.
"We’re urging people who witnessed the incident to call police,"
Vella said.
The hotel parking lot and the parking lot to the adjacent Armenian
Community Centre were cordoned off for several hours for the
investigation.
YEVGENI GLADUNCHIK AWARDED WITH RA PARLIAMENT’S MEDAL
PanARMENIAN.Net
09.10.2009 18:52 GMT+04:00
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ On October 9, RA Parliament Speaker Hovik Abrahamyan
bestowed RA NA Honor Medal upon "Electric Networks of Armenia’"
CJSC’s General Director Yevgeni Gladunchik on the occasion of his
60th birth anniversary.
Gladunchik in turn expressed his gratitude to NA Speaker, noting that
award obliged him to continue such trustworthy activities in future,
RA NA press service reports.
HILLARY CLINTON CRITICIZES KREMLIN FOR UNRESOLVED MURDERS
Tert.am
13:39 08.10.09
Hillary Clinton, set to make her first visit to Moscow next week as
US secretary of state, on Wednesday criticized Russia for its failure
to bring to justice the killers of journalists and rights activists,
reports Associated French Press (AFP).
The State Department said Clinton, who issued the critical statement
on the third anniversary of the unsolved slaying of Russian journalist
Anna Politkovskaya, would raise US concerns about such violence with
her Russian interlocutors.
"The failure to bring to justice the killers of these journalists
undermines efforts to strengthen the rule of law, improve government
accountability, and combat corruption," Clinton said.
Her spokesperson Ian Kelly told reporters that Clinton would visit
Russia on October 13 and 14, with talks planned in Moscow with her
Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov and probably President Dmitry
Medvedev.
Philip Crowley, assistant secretary of state for public affairs,
expected Clinton to discuss human rights during her trip in addition
to the nuclear ambitions of Iran and North Korea, US-Russian nuclear
arms reductions, missile defense, and energy issues.
"The secretary… will talk about human rights, the environment
in Russia… our ongoing concern about violence against activists,
our ongoing concern about intimidation of the news media," Crowley
told reporters.
PRESIDENT SARGSYAN CONVENES AN EXTENDED SITTING OF THE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
armradio.am
08.10.2009 15:49
President of the Republic of Armenia, President of the National
Security Council Serzh Sargsyan convened an extended sitting of
the National Security Council today. Those in attendance were His
Holiness Garegin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians,
President of the Prosperous Armenia Party Gagik Tsarukyan, President
of the Public Council Vazgen Manukyan and Minister of Diaspora
Hranush Hakobyan.
Participants of the sitting discussed the current stage of
normalization of the Armenian-Turkish relations, summed up the public
discussions on the normalization process, and the results of the
President’s pan-Armenian tour.