Author: David Nargizian

End of Armenian electricity imports not catastrophic
The Messenger, Georgia
May 6 2005
Press Scan
According to Rezonansi, the curtailment of imports of electricity
from Armenia has not created problems for Tbilisi’s energy supply.
The paper writes that as was said in Telasi, electricity is being
distributed in all Tbilisi districts.
Rezonansi reports that the energy produced by hydroelectric stations
will compensate for halt in the import of energy. As for the
restoration of imports from Armenia, the paper reports that Telasi
does not say whether these imports will be continued or not.
Resonansi notes that Armenia stopped importing electricity to Telasi
on May1. According to the paper, the reason for this is the decrease
of the exchange rate of the dollar in comparison with the national
Armenian currency, the dram, which caused, according to the Armenian
company, energy export to be unprofitable. The paper adds that Georgia
receives 150 megawatts of energy from Armenia during peak-hours.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

COCHAIRMEN OF OSCE MINSK GROUP ARE TO MEET WITH FOREIGN MINISTER OF
ARMENIA TILL MIDDLE OF MAY
YEREVAN, MAY 3. ARMINFO. The cochairmen of the OSCE Minsk Group are
to meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Vardan Oskanian
till the middle of May. Cochairman of OSCE Minsk Group for settlement
of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict Yuri Merzlyakov told ARMINFO.
According to him, there are no concrete data on the place and date.
Answering the question, may the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan
meet in Moscow within the framework of the celebration of the 60th
anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, Yuri Merzlyakov
said, the cochairmen are not getting ready for it. As it was earlier
informed President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev refused to take part
in informal summit of CIS on May 8, and will arrive in Moscow later
in the evening. “I do not rule out that a brief talk will take place
between holiday arrangements, but it will be without the participation
of the cochairmen”, the Russian cochairman said.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Russia supplying howitzers to Armenia – Azeri TV
Azad Azarbaycan TV, Baku
14 Apr 05
[Presenter] Although Russia, a co-chair [of the OSCE Minsk Group],
declares that it is trying to strengthen peace in the region, it is
taking completely opposite steps in reality. Official Moscow has
handed over to Armenian occupiers heavy artillery from its military
bases in Georgia. The occupiers used the opportunity and directed
those weapons against Azerbaijan.
[Correspondent] Russia has taken a further step towards aggravating
the situation in the South Caucasus. “Son Xabar” has learnt that
sixteen 152-mm howitzers have been moved from Russian military bases
in Georgia to Armenia and installed near [Azerbaijan’s] Qazax
District. This increases the danger that Armenia will step up its
aggressive claims against Azerbaijan. Thus, a 152-mm D-20 howitzer,
which uses a fragmentation land mine projectile, can destroy military,
civil and other facilities at a distance of 17 km. This distance will
increase to 24 km if an active jet-propelled projectile is used.
We should note that there are only seven or eight kilometres between
Armenia’s Idzhevan District, which borders on Azerbaijan, and the
Qazax District centre. Experts believe that if the D-20 howitzer is
used in this sector, it may destroy facilities not only in Qazax and
its villages, but also in Agstafa District.
We should note that there are howitzers that destroy targets at a
distance of 27-40 km. But the important thing here is that by placing
these weapons on its territory, Armenia is grossly violating its
commitments under the Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty. On the
other hand, although Russia, which is a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk
Group, has undertaken to broker the peaceful settlement of the
Nagornyy Karabakh problem, it is continuing to arm the Armenian
occupiers and as a result, delaying the resolution of the conflict.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
3325 North Glenoaks Blvd.
Burbank, Ca 91504
Tel: 818-558-7474
Fax: 818-558-6333
Web:
PROFESSOR VAHAKN DADRIAN AT THE DIOCESE
On April 8 and 9, 2005 the Western Diocese was delighted to host and
honor Professor Vahakn Dadrian, a renowned expert on the Armenian
Genocide of 1915.
On Friday, April 9, 2005 His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian,
Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North
America, presided over a lecture by Professor Dadrian at the Diocesan
Headquarters in Burbank, organized by the organization of Istanbul
Armenians (OIA). An audience of over 400 guests had come to hear
Prof. Dadrian, who gave a detailed account of the Genocide, supported
by countless facts gathered by him through several years of dedicated
research around the world.
On April 9, 2005 under the auspices of the Western Diocese of the
Armenian Church of North America and organized by over 10 cultural
and compatriotic organizations, a tribute banquet was held at the
Diocese honoring Vahakn Dadrian for a lifetime of academic
achievement.
Professor Dadrian was presented by Taner Akcam, researcher and
professor who has published over ten books on the topic of the
Armenian Genocide and Turkish nationalism.
`Professor Dadrian is the most authentic historian of the Armenian
Genocide,’ said His Eminence Archbishop Derderian in his address to
the attendees of the banquet. `Through his outstanding achievements
and scholarly works he has been recognized internationally, and above
all, through his extensive research of Austrian, German and Turkish
archives he has been able to reach out to the people of the world,
making them aware of the undeniable facts of the Armenian Genocide.’
During the Banquet the Pontifical Encyclical issued by His Holiness
Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, was read. The Encyclical was
issued on March 5, 2005 granting Prof. Dadrian the St. Sahag and
Mesrob Medal of Honor. `Your many years of distinguished public and
literary services as well as your important and tangible input in the
serious and necessary endeavor to condemn the Armenian Genocide and
the phenomenon of Genocide in general throughout the world are worthy
of praise,’ read the Pontifical Encyclical.
The Primate also commended the efforts of the organizations that had
joined in planning this event. The participating organizations were,
Ararat Eskigian Museum, ARCA – Western Region, Armenian Assembly of
America, Armenian Cultural and Educational Society – Hamazkayin,
Armenian Democratic Liberal Party, Armenian General Benevolent Union,
Armenian National Committee, Nor Seroont Cultural Association,
Organization of Istanbul Armenians, social Democratic Hunchakian
Party, and Tekeyan Cultural Association.
Proceeds will benefit the Zoryan Institute Genocide Research Fund.

primate’s first divine liturgy
in portland, oregon

On April 10, 2005 His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate
of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, paid
his second pastoral visit to the Armenian Church of Portland Oregon,
where he celebrated his first Divine Liturgy with the presence of
over 150 faithful, marking the first time such a great number of
faithful had gathered at the church.
During the Divine Liturgy the Primate performed the ordination of
Kevork Parseghian into the order of diaconate and also ordained four
acolytes.
The Primate addressed the faithful with the words, `Today my heart
rejoices as I join all of you with my prayers to celebrate a new
beginning in the Armenian community of Oregon. I am all the more
overjoyed with the ordination of Deacon Kevork Parseghian and the
four acolytes. I convey to you all my warmest regards and challenge
you to reawaken within your hearts the spirit of devotion and
sacrifice on the verge of the creation of a new and vibrant community
in the Western Diocese.’

primate and clergy
participate in swearing-in ceremony

On April 11, 2005 His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate
of the Western Diocese, accompanied by His Eminence Archbishop Vatche
Hovsepian, Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Yardemian, and Diocesan clergy,
attended the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected mayor and
officers of the City of Glendale.
Prior to the ceremony the Primate and assisting clergy conducted the
wedding ceremony of Mayor Bob Yousefian, at St. Peter Armenian Church
Youth Center in Glendale.

Primate represented at
community events

· Inaugural banquet of Armenian academy of los angeles
On April 1, 2005 Very Rev. Fr. Asbed Balian represented the Primate
at the inaugural Banquet of the Armenian Academy of Los Angeles,
which is targeted to open its doors to Armenian high school students
in the fall of 2006. The goal of the Academy is to create a college
preparatory four-year high school curriculum, focused on Honors and
Advanced Placement classes, with an emphasis on the Arts as well,
thus giving Armenian students a solid basis for higher education.

· ART EXHIBITION ORGANIZED BY LA CITY ATTORNEY
On April 7, 2005 Mr. Vahe Ashjian, Chair of the Armenian
Professionals Network (APN) of the Diocese, represented the Primate
at an art exhibition organized by the office of Los Angeles City
Attorney Rocky Delgadillo, held at the LA City Hall.
During the event Rocky Delgadillo placed special emphasis on the
accomplishments of the Armenian community in Los Angeles, and
extended his words of commendation to the community.
· 20th anniversary of CSUN Armenian Studies Program
On Friday, April 8, 2005 Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian and
Rev. Fr. Shnork Demirdjian, Pastor of St. Peter Armenian Church in
Van Nuys, represented the Primate at the 20th Anniversary banquet of
the Armenian Studies Program at the California University of
Northridge, California.
Fr. Dajad presented to the attendees the message of the Primate
which read, `On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Armenian
Studies Program at California State University, Northridge, we
congratulate Dr. Hermine Mahseredjian, Director of the Armenian
Studies Program; Dr. Vahram Shemmassian, and over 3000 Armenian
students of CSUN. We are proud that alongside various academic
topics, with utmost love our Armenian students are dedicated to
Armenian education, thanks to which they maintain the traditions of
our forefathers, and impart those traditions upon future
generations.’

· CLIMATE OF TRUST PROGRAM
On April 11, 2005 Fr. Tavit Zelveyan represented the Primate at the
first ever Los Angeles-Based Climate of Trust Program, welcoming a
delegation of Russian law enforcement and community leaders, who are
in LA to address issues connected to anti-Semitism

· Meeting of interreligious council
Archpriest Fr. Arshag Khatchadourian, Pastor of St. James Armenian
Church in Los Angeles will represent the Primate at the meeting of
the Interreligious Council on April 12, 2005 hosted by Fr. Alexei
Smith, at Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral.

Upcoming SCHEDULE OF
April 14 – May 1, 2005

The following contains items scheduled for the month of April 14 –
May 1, 2005.

Thursday, April 14 His Eminence will preside over the Clergy
Executive meeting and the Clergy Recruitment Committee meeting at the
Diocese.

Evening – The Primate will attend an exhibition by the students of
the TCA Arshag Dickranian School dedicated to the Armenian Genocide.

Sunday, April 17 The Primate will celebrate Divine Liturgy at St.
John Garabed Armenian Church in San Diego where he will consecrate a
Stone Cross on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of the Armenian
Genocide.

Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian will represent the Primate at
an evening of lecture dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the
Armenian Genocide, organized by the Armenian Cultural and Educational
Society – Hamazkayin, to be held at the Glendale Public Library.

Wednesday, April 20 His Eminence will meet with Supervisor Michael
D. Antonovich at the Diocesan Headquarters, accompanied by Diocesan
council members and members of the Cathedral Committee.

Evening – The Primate will preside over an event in honor of the
Armenian Genocide at St. John Garabed Armenian Church in Hollywood.

Thursday, April 21 the Primate will attend the conclusion of `March
for Humanity’ in Sacramento, following which the delegation from the
Western Diocese will head to the state Assembly where a resolution
will be passed in recognition of the Genocide.

Sunday, April 24 The Primate will perform the ordination pf Deacon
Vahe Abovyan into the Order of Priesthood at St. John Garabed
Armenian Church in Hollywood.

Evening – all community event in honor of the Armenian Genocide

April 26 – 30 78th Annual Diocesan Assembly
April 27 Clergy Conference
April 28 Ladies’ Assembly
April 29-30 Delegates’ Assembly

Sunday, May 1 The Primate will preside over Divine Liturgy at the
culmination of the Assembly.

The Khachadoorian Choir will celebrate the anniversary of its
establishment.

The Primate will attend the 25th anniversary of the St. Sahag and
Mesrob Armenian School.

OFFICE OF THE WESTERN DIOCESE
April 12, 2005
Burbank, California
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

SHEIKS OF ASHIRET TRIBES OF SYRIA: WORLD SHOULD RECOGNIZE ARMENIAN GENOCIDE
01.04.2005 07:14
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ The delegation of sheiks of 12 Ashiret tribal
leaders, who have authority in the Syrian Arab Republic, are in
Armenia to participate in the commemorations of the Armenian
Genocide. In early past century the fathers of the sheiks provided
asylum to the Armenians, who survived the genocide. Today the
delegation members held a news conference, at which they expressed
admiration of the culture, science and the hospitality of the Armenian
people, the Yerkir newspaper reported. The entire world should
recognize the Armenian Genocide, the sheiks noted, adding that every
stone, every inch of our country provide evidence of the Armenian
Genocide victims. The guests also visited the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial
of the Genocide victims, Yerevan State University, and met with
Armenian officials.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ARMENIAN MP SLATES NATIONAL SCIENCE ACADEMY FOR POOR WORK
YEREVAN, MARCH 29. ARMINFO. Armenian Prime Minister Andranik
Margaryan severely criticized today the work of the National Academy
of Sciences of Armenia and its research companies.
The budgetary financing of science has grown from 2.9 bln AMD in 2003
to 4.1 bln AMD in 2005. But active financing is not effective without
specific programs. One should stop asking money for some abstract
things – the Government should know what it gives money for. Only 3-5
and 10-year programs should get financing. Of 40 research companies
operative are 4-5 with their directors have long being of pension age
clinging to their posts and preventing young specialists and managers
to climb up the ladder. Reforms do not mean closing research companies
and firing researchers. “Today we need specific proposals rather than
endless and pointless debates,” says Margaryan.
For this purpose the Government has set up a special commission fo
developing a long-term plan of reforms in science. These reforms will
be given all-out support by the Government. The first step is
additional monthly bonuses to candidates and doctors (5,000 and 10,000
AMD respectively) and this is not the end, says Margaryan.
Inspired by Margaryan’s criticism academic Anry Nersissyan stood up to
charge National Academy President Fadey Sargsyan with falsifying the
results of the last academy elections and misappropriating budgetary
funds. Sargsyan called him a liar.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

UCLA Armenian Student Association
405 Hilgard Ave.
Kerckhoff 146
Los Angeles, CA. 90095
Contact: Arpine Hovasapian
Email: [email protected]
Web:
March 6, 2005
Contact: Public Relations Director, Arpine Hovasapian [email protected]
UCLA ASA Draws in Capacity Crowd at Annual Spring Banquet
Tujunga, CA. – The last two weeks has been filled with high caliber
programming for the UCLA Armenian Student Association (ASA). The ASA
first invited Vahe Berberian for a night of cultural comedy and then the
Apex Theory for a live concert in Bruin Plaza. This was just the
beginning of more quality programming by the organization. On Friday,
March 4, 2005 the UCLA ASA hosted its annual spring banquet with
internationally famous, Persian-Armenian singer Andy.
The event was held at SIS Palace in Tujunga, California, where a capacity
crowd of 600 students from all over California attended the event. The
evening started with dinner and remarks by the UCLA ASA officers, and
then a night of entertainment by Andy, guest singer Shaynee, and DJ Diran
Productions.
`These past two weeks have been incredible for the UCLA ASA. The ASA
continues to push the envelope and take the organization and the Armenian
student community to the next level,’ proclaimed ASA and ASBA member Shant
Taslakian.
Portions of the proceeds for the event will be donated to help build a
school in Armenia – a year long effort the organization has decided to
take on. Other portions will be geared towards ASA programming on campus,
specifically for Genocide Commemoration and Culture Week.
ASA and ASO’s from all over California supported the event, including USC,
CSUN, UCLA Armenian Student Business Association, UAS, GCC, Cal State Long
Beach, UCR, UCI, Stanford, ARF SSA, Cal Poly, BFA, among others. `It is
amazing to have such ample support from our sister ASA organizations. The
turnout of the event was highly successful because of all their efforts
and hard work,’ asserted ASA Social Director Maral Karagozian.
The UCLA ASA is one of the oldest Armenian-American student groups in the
United States. This year marks the 60th anniversary of its existence. The
UCLA ASA seeks to cultivate a true understanding and appreciation of
Armenian history, heritage, and culture through cultural, social, and
recreational activities.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ESTONIA TO ASSIST DEVELOPMENT OF ARMENIA, GEORGIA AND UKRAINE
PanArmenian News
March 11 2005
11.03.2005 08:03
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ The Estonian Foreign Ministry decreed on assisting
the development of Georgia, Ukraine and Armenia by allocating 1.36
million crowns to these states. In Armenia the specialists of the
rescue department of Estonia are going to conduct a number of seminars
for the security of the population and deliver the humanitarian aids
to the republic. Two projects are directed to the development of
vocational education and computer literacy in Georgia. In Ukraine
Estonia is going to train the functionaries in the ecological and
social fields. Besides, the funds will be spent to the development
of interaction between the Estonian districts and regions of Ukraine.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ARMENIAN PRESIDENT CONGRATULATED WOMEN WITH MARCH 8
07.03.2005 05:43
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ On the occasion of the International Womenâ~@~Ys Day
celebrated on March 8 Armenian President Robert Kocharian addressed the
women with a message of congratulation, which says in part, â~@~Dear
women! I congratulate you with the International Womenâ~@~Ys Day. The
8-th of March is a wonderful occasion to express our warmest attitude,
gratitude and love towards our mothers, sisters and wives. Armenian
women have made a great contribution to the formation of our
country. Presently the frames of their public and state activities
are expanding. Equally with this, you, dear women, keep the family
hearth and remain attractive. I congratulate you with this beautiful
holiday and wish you family warmth, charm and high spirits.â~@~]
–Boundary_(ID_khQ0HzyXMLbaCMj+l+uEmA)–
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress

ArmenPress
Feb 25 2005
WORLD BANK TO CONSIDER NEW LOAN PROGRAM TO ARMENIA
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 25, ARMENPRESS: A team of experts from World
Bank program for evaluation of rural communities development is in
Armenia. World Bank Resident Representative Roger Robinson said today
the program is very important for Armenia, as many of its remote
rural areas need strong support.
He said a credit program that is expected to be sent to World Bank
Board of Directors in July, will try to find new resources to help
population of both rural settlements and small towns to increase
their incomes. The new program will provide farmers with a broader
range of assistance and consulting and will also make available
short-and-long-term loans. The programs’ budget is approximately $20
million.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress