Emirates News Agency (WAM), UAE October 7, 2017 Saturday Qudwa 2017: Teacher talk session on opening day examines how mainstream schools can become more inclusive Qudwa 2017 / sessions ABU DHABI, 7th October, 2017 (WAM) -- Qudwa 2017 Global Teachers' Forum, an international symposium that aims to improve the future of education, hosted a panel discussion on day 1 titled 'Making Schools More Inclusive: Teaching Students With Special Needs' that examined ways to make mainstream schools more inclusive. Held in partnership with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, OECD, the talk drew the participation of Aggeliki Pappa, Founder of I Love Dyslexia (Greece), Armina Gevorgyan, teacher at Anania Shirakatsy International Lyceum (Armenia), and Yasser Anass Sadek Ahmed, teacher at Al Sadara School (Al Ain, UAE). Moderated by Tarek Mostafa, Analyst, Early Childhood and Schools, Directorate for Education and Skills, OECD, the discussion focused on how students with special needs could be integrated within mainstream classrooms to make them more inclusive. The speakers also explored the challenges that educators are likely to face while providing equal opportunities to diverse groups of learners. Opening the session, Mostafa noted the findings of OECD's Teaching and Learning International Survey, TALIS, 2013, which show that 23 percent of teachers across all sampled countries have reported a high need for professional development in teaching students with special needs. He also highlighted that in such classrooms, teachers tend to spend less time teaching, indicating a critical issue in time management, which in turn negatively impacts the students' learning experiences. Offering her perspective, Aggeliki Pappa said, "Among the many challenges we face in the special needs teaching segment, I find that it is most difficult to direct the system to align with my philosophy, which essentially revolves around my love for children with dyslexia. I find it especially hard to break down the wrong beliefs around dyslexia – to convey that these children are not disabled but differently-abled. I also find that parents of students with special needs are often unable to accept that their children are perfect just the way they are. My constant effort has been to help people embrace these differences, to enable society's growth and the growth of the country. "On the issue of time management, I feel special needs teachers should first focus on fostering a genuine and compassionate relationship with their students. They also need to establish the ethos in the classroom, making it clear to every student that each of them matters. As teachers, we need to help students develop cognitive and meta-cognitive skills, teaching them how to learn using their own abilities, both within and outside the classroom." Gevorgyan further noted, "In my view, one the of the challenges in this space is the absence of the right atmosphere in the classroom. Children are not able to communicate with each other. In Armenia, one of the biggest challenges is that children with special needs are bullied by their fully-abled counterparts, making it difficult for them to find the support they need to develop their abilities. "When it comes to the professional development of teachers in special needs schools, we need to stress the importance of training. I, myself, worked with a team called Bridge of Hope in Armenia, with expertise in working with children with special needs. In addition to this, I had access to a psychologist who helped to find appropriate solutions for student development. Such training and support systems add to the development of teaching skills, which further helps with time management in the classroom." Highlighting what teachers can do to foster more support for special needs students, Yassed Sadek said, "From experience, it is clear that integration is key for children with special needs. At our school, we ensure that students are assigned to the right classes based on their specific needs, and also so that they have an opportunity to exchange views and grasp different behaviours. "On the other hand, professional development of teachers in special needs schools can be implemented through workshops on analytics strategy, time management and so on. In Al Ain, we rolled out a co-teacher format in the classroom and parent counselling systems to help manage these students in the best way possible. We also work with gifted students for whom teachers are trained to identify special skills and determine career opportunities based on their abilities."
Author: Nahapetian Samvel
Azerbaijani Press: Azerbaijan says US congressmen’s illegal visit to Nagorno-Karabakh is being investigated
APA, Azerbaijan
Sept 20 2017
The visit of members of the US House of Representatives – Frank Pallone and Tulsi Gabbard – to the occupied Azerbaijani territories is being investigated, Hikmat Hajiyev, spokesman for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, told APA on Wednesday.
After the investigation is over, appropriate steps will be taken in relation of these persons, Hajiyev noted.
“These persons have long been funded by Armenia and the Armenian lobby in the US. They are completely depended on the US-based Armenian lobby,” he added.
Harutyun Khachatryan leaves Golden Apricot
The press center of Golden Apricot reports that Harutyun Khachatryan, Director of Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival, quitted the post of the Director of Golden Apricot according to his own application and conditioned by the workload of shooting new film series.
According to the decision of the Festival’s founding Council, Susanna Harutyunyan, Artistic Director of the Festival, has been appointed the Director of Golden Apricot.
Serena Williams welcomes baby girl with fiance Alexis Ohanian
Panorama, Armenia
Sept 2 2017
Serena Williams has given birth to a baby girl. The 23 Grand Slam title winner Serena Williams welcomed the new arrival on Friday afternoon, Metro reported, reminding that Serena was induced at St. Mary’s Medical Centre in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Thursday.
Local news producer Chris Shepherd announced the news on his Twitter page, saying that the baby weighed 6lbs 13oz and adding: ‘Mom and baby doing well.’
According to the source, the baby is Serena’s first child with her fiance, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian – with the tennis ace revealing news of her pregnancy in April on Snapchat.
California Courier Online, Aug. 24, 2014
The California Courier Online,
1 – Commentary
Americana Now Accepts to
Advertise
Advertise
Armenian Genocide Documentary
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher,
The California
Courier
The California
Courier
www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com
2 – Gladys
Berejiklian: “I Hope to Visit Armenia
Berejiklian: “I Hope to Visit Armenia
Next
Year as Premier of New South Wales”
Year as Premier of New South Wales”
3 – Garo
Paylan: It is Sad that We Failed to Protect the Remains of Our Ancestors
Paylan: It is Sad that We Failed to Protect the Remains of Our Ancestors
4 – Google Speech Recognition
Now
Supports Armenian
Supports Armenian
5 – Caruso Agrees to Advertise Genocide
Documentary
Documentary
And
Forge Relationship with Armenian Community
Forge Relationship with Armenian Community
6 – U.S. Religious Freedom Report Addresses
Armenian
Church Property Seized in Turkey
Church Property Seized in Turkey
7 – Baku Asked Israeli Firm to
Conduct
Conduct
Drone
Strike Test Against Armenians
Strike Test Against Armenians
8 – Dutch
Deports Asylum-Seeking Mother
Deports Asylum-Seeking Mother
As
Children, 11 and 12, Go into Hiding
Children, 11 and 12, Go into Hiding
9 – Americana Reverses Rejection of Genocide Film
Ad in Wake of Uproar from Armenian
Community
Community
*******************************************
1 – Commentary
Americana Now Accepts to
Advertise
Advertise
Armenian Genocide Documentary
By Harut Sassounian
Publisher, The California Courier
www.TheCaliforniaCourier.com
Americana
shopping mall executives in Glendale
once again reversed themselves declaring that they not only now accept to
advertise the Armenian Genocide Documentary, Architects of Denial, but offered
to do it for free!
shopping mall executives in Glendale
once again reversed themselves declaring that they not only now accept to
advertise the Armenian Genocide Documentary, Architects of Denial, but offered
to do it for free!
In the process, Americana’s executives
behaved erratically, unprofessionally, and most surprisingly, against their own
business interests by behaving insensitively toward the major block of their
shoppers, the large local Armenian population.
behaved erratically, unprofessionally, and most surprisingly, against their own
business interests by behaving insensitively toward the major block of their
shoppers, the large local Armenian population.
It all started two weeks ago
when Americana’s
General Manager Julie Jauregui refused to sell space on its billboard by
calling the Armenian Genocide documentary “too political.” When I
contacted Americana for a proper explanation, I
was told by Emily Davis, responsible for Americana’s
Public Relations and Communications: “We have strict standards for our
advertisements and we carefully review all content. This did not comply with
the advertising guidelines for our portfolio properties throughout Southern California.” When asked why the documentary did not
comply with Americana’s advertising guidelines,
three days later I was told by Emily Davis, Americana had no further comment!
when Americana’s
General Manager Julie Jauregui refused to sell space on its billboard by
calling the Armenian Genocide documentary “too political.” When I
contacted Americana for a proper explanation, I
was told by Emily Davis, responsible for Americana’s
Public Relations and Communications: “We have strict standards for our
advertisements and we carefully review all content. This did not comply with
the advertising guidelines for our portfolio properties throughout Southern California.” When asked why the documentary did not
comply with Americana’s advertising guidelines,
three days later I was told by Emily Davis, Americana had no further comment!
Under pressure from the
local Armenian community and the Armenian National Committee of America —
Glendale Chapter, Jackie Levy, Americana’s Executive Vice President, changed
course and sent a conciliatory letter to ANCA, dangling the hope that there
would be a resolution to the issue after meeting with the Glendale City Council
and the documentary producers, and declining to meet with ANCA.
local Armenian community and the Armenian National Committee of America —
Glendale Chapter, Jackie Levy, Americana’s Executive Vice President, changed
course and sent a conciliatory letter to ANCA, dangling the hope that there
would be a resolution to the issue after meeting with the Glendale City Council
and the documentary producers, and declining to meet with ANCA.
A few days later, Jackie
Levy, sent a much harsher letter to the documentary producers stating once
again that Americana declines the requested advertising because the shopping
mall is for people “who can come together to enjoy themselves… that is why we
have established policies prohibiting advertisements concerning political
issues.” She then offered to meet with ANCA and expressed the wish to “reaffirm
our longstanding support of the Armenian community….” which is a complete lie. Americana has repeatedly
taken anti-Armenian positions, particularly on the Armenian Genocide issue when
they banned the sale of genocide t-shirts three years ago.
Levy, sent a much harsher letter to the documentary producers stating once
again that Americana declines the requested advertising because the shopping
mall is for people “who can come together to enjoy themselves… that is why we
have established policies prohibiting advertisements concerning political
issues.” She then offered to meet with ANCA and expressed the wish to “reaffirm
our longstanding support of the Armenian community….” which is a complete lie. Americana has repeatedly
taken anti-Armenian positions, particularly on the Armenian Genocide issue when
they banned the sale of genocide t-shirts three years ago.
Jackie Levy then proceeded
to make the most offensive remark, mentioning “comments we have received
ranging from the Armenian community and the Turkish Consulate.” Ms. Levy should
be asked how many Turkish shoppers frequent Americana
vs. 100,000 Armenians in Glendale.
Furthermore, why is she allowing the Consulate of a foreign despotic regime to
interfere in the decisions of Americana
and the local community? By doing so, she is equating Armenians — the victims
of genocide — with those whose ancestors had committed such heinous mass
crimes!
to make the most offensive remark, mentioning “comments we have received
ranging from the Armenian community and the Turkish Consulate.” Ms. Levy should
be asked how many Turkish shoppers frequent Americana
vs. 100,000 Armenians in Glendale.
Furthermore, why is she allowing the Consulate of a foreign despotic regime to
interfere in the decisions of Americana
and the local community? By doing so, she is equating Armenians — the victims
of genocide — with those whose ancestors had committed such heinous mass
crimes!
Meanwhile the pressure
started mounting on Americana
by various American TV networks which broadcast the Armenian protests against
the shopping mall. There were also more than 20 Armenian and non-Armenian
speakers, including this writer, who addressed the Glendale City Council on
August 15, expressing their outrage at Jackie Levy’s insensitive letter. At the
end, all five City Council members expressed their unhappiness with Americana’s rejection of
the Armenian Genocide ad and committed to follow up with the shopping mall’s
executives to pressure them to change their position.
started mounting on Americana
by various American TV networks which broadcast the Armenian protests against
the shopping mall. There were also more than 20 Armenian and non-Armenian
speakers, including this writer, who addressed the Glendale City Council on
August 15, expressing their outrage at Jackie Levy’s insensitive letter. At the
end, all five City Council members expressed their unhappiness with Americana’s rejection of
the Armenian Genocide ad and committed to follow up with the shopping mall’s
executives to pressure them to change their position.
Finally, Americana
executives reversed their position once again on August 17, by announcing
shortly before ANCA’s press conference scheduled to declare a boycott of Americana by the local
Armenian community. Jackie Levy announced that Americana now agrees to display the
advertisement and “at no cost to the producers.”
executives reversed their position once again on August 17, by announcing
shortly before ANCA’s press conference scheduled to declare a boycott of Americana by the local
Armenian community. Jackie Levy announced that Americana now agrees to display the
advertisement and “at no cost to the producers.”
Ms. Levy excuses Americana’s earlier
negative decision as a “misunderstanding” of their position on human
rights “and for that we apologize. We have always condemned violence and
atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the Armenian Genocide
that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community.”
negative decision as a “misunderstanding” of their position on human
rights “and for that we apologize. We have always condemned violence and
atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the Armenian Genocide
that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community.”
In response, ANCA announced
that they consider Americana’s
reversal an “initial positive step.” The ANCA further stated that the shopping
mall “should be demonstrating its corporate citizenship” and “must seek a
relationship with the community that demonstrates, in concrete terms, its
understanding and care for the surrounding community and our city. In the coming
weeks, we look forward to meeting with Mr. Rick Caruso [Americana’s
owner] and his management team to discuss, in concrete terms, how we can forge
a better relationship and bond between the community and the Americana and Caruso Affiliated that results in
a genuine, constructive and meaningful long-term relationship.”
that they consider Americana’s
reversal an “initial positive step.” The ANCA further stated that the shopping
mall “should be demonstrating its corporate citizenship” and “must seek a
relationship with the community that demonstrates, in concrete terms, its
understanding and care for the surrounding community and our city. In the coming
weeks, we look forward to meeting with Mr. Rick Caruso [Americana’s
owner] and his management team to discuss, in concrete terms, how we can forge
a better relationship and bond between the community and the Americana and Caruso Affiliated that results in
a genuine, constructive and meaningful long-term relationship.”
Given Americana executives’ contradictory
statements in the last couple of weeks, the Armenian community has lost
complete trust in their promises. Mr. Caruso, Americana’s owner, not only should review the
shopping mall’s relationship with the local Armenian community, but also decide
if several of his executives should continue working for him given their
unprofessional behavior.
statements in the last couple of weeks, the Armenian community has lost
complete trust in their promises. Mr. Caruso, Americana’s owner, not only should review the
shopping mall’s relationship with the local Armenian community, but also decide
if several of his executives should continue working for him given their
unprofessional behavior.
*******************************************************************************************************
2 – Gladys Berejiklian: “I Hope to Visit Armenia
Next
Year as Premier of New South Wales”
Year as Premier of New South Wales”
SIDNEY, Australia (News.am) – Premier of Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Gladys
Berejiklian hopes to visit Armenia
next year, she said in an interview with Armenian News-NEWS.am. Gladys
Berejiklian spoke about her visit to Armenia and Karabakh as well as her
Armenian heritage.
Berejiklian hopes to visit Armenia
next year, she said in an interview with Armenian News-NEWS.am. Gladys
Berejiklian spoke about her visit to Armenia and Karabakh as well as her
Armenian heritage.
What is your main task as Prime Minister
of New South Wales?
of New South Wales?
New South Wales
is home to 7.8 million people and is the largest of Australia’s six states. About a
third of Australia’s
population live in NSW. NSW has the largest, fastest-growing and
most-diversified economy in Australia.
It has an economy larger than Ireland,
Norway and Israel.
is home to 7.8 million people and is the largest of Australia’s six states. About a
third of Australia’s
population live in NSW. NSW has the largest, fastest-growing and
most-diversified economy in Australia.
It has an economy larger than Ireland,
Norway and Israel.
The role of the Premier is equivalent to that of
a State Governor in the United
States. The Premier is the leader of the
Government, the most senior decision maker and most visible face of the State
Government to the public. The Premier leads and coordinates the work of a
Government Ministers across budgets, policy and new legislation.
a State Governor in the United
States. The Premier is the leader of the
Government, the most senior decision maker and most visible face of the State
Government to the public. The Premier leads and coordinates the work of a
Government Ministers across budgets, policy and new legislation.
You visited Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh
together with the delegation of Australian politicians back in 2013. Could you
please share you impressions of this visit?
together with the delegation of Australian politicians back in 2013. Could you
please share you impressions of this visit?
In July 2013, as part of a Parliamentary
delegation of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Armenia, I had the opportunity
to visit Armenia
in an official capacity. We visited Yerevan,
Artsakh and other regions of Armenia.
The trip embedded in both my colleagues and me, a deeper understanding of not
only the Armenian way of life, but also the challenges and the significant
strategic opportunities available to Armenia.
delegation of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of Armenia, I had the opportunity
to visit Armenia
in an official capacity. We visited Yerevan,
Artsakh and other regions of Armenia.
The trip embedded in both my colleagues and me, a deeper understanding of not
only the Armenian way of life, but also the challenges and the significant
strategic opportunities available to Armenia.
You have constantly raised the Armenian
community concerns in the parliament, including recognition of the Armenian
Genocide and Karabakh issue. Do you think Australia can ever recognize the
Armenian Genocide?
community concerns in the parliament, including recognition of the Armenian
Genocide and Karabakh issue. Do you think Australia can ever recognize the
Armenian Genocide?
As the granddaughter of survivors of the
Armenian genocide, I am proud of my Armenian heritage and will continue to
advocate for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. This year marks the 20th
anniversary of the unanimous recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the
Parliament of New South Wales. We also have an Armenian Khachkar in our Parliamentary Garden to recognise the victims of the
Armenian Genocide. I hope to visit Armenia next year as the Premier of
NSW.
Armenian genocide, I am proud of my Armenian heritage and will continue to
advocate for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. This year marks the 20th
anniversary of the unanimous recognition of the Armenian Genocide by the
Parliament of New South Wales. We also have an Armenian Khachkar in our Parliamentary Garden to recognise the victims of the
Armenian Genocide. I hope to visit Armenia next year as the Premier of
NSW.
****************************************************************************************************
3 – Garo
Paylan: It is Sad that We Failed to Protect the Remains of Our Ancestors
Paylan: It is Sad that We Failed to Protect the Remains of Our Ancestors
ISTANBUL
(Agos) – The Turkish Parliament member of pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party
(HDP) Garo Paylan visited Van to verify the information that toilets were built in a historic Armenian cemetery.
(Agos) – The Turkish Parliament member of pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party
(HDP) Garo Paylan visited Van to verify the information that toilets were built in a historic Armenian cemetery.
The territory was surrounded by barbed wire.
Paylan talked to the local residents.
Paylan talked to the local residents.
“Wherever I touched, human bones were found.
There is no doubt anymore that this territory used to be an Armenian cemetery,”
Paylan said.
There is no doubt anymore that this territory used to be an Armenian cemetery,”
Paylan said.
Paylan said that the territory had been a
dwelling place from the times of Urartu. “Armenian people lived there since
then. Everyone whom I talked to told about churches and schools. But alas,
these memories are erased.”
dwelling place from the times of Urartu. “Armenian people lived there since
then. Everyone whom I talked to told about churches and schools. But alas,
these memories are erased.”
Paylan emphasized that according to the local
residents, the gravestones of the cemetery had been eliminated in 1940-50s. “A
Muslim chapel, a toilet and a café are built at the place of the cemetery. It
is sad that we failed to protect the remains of our ancestors”.
residents, the gravestones of the cemetery had been eliminated in 1940-50s. “A
Muslim chapel, a toilet and a café are built at the place of the cemetery. It
is sad that we failed to protect the remains of our ancestors”.
Arshile Gorky was born in Dilkaya in Edremit
region of Van. The spring that was built near his house and destroyed after
some time was restored in 2015 and a sign was established by the Municipality of Edremit. Now the sign is removed and the
spring water is cut off, Paylan says. According to him, all documents of
Armenian life are eliminated
region of Van. The spring that was built near his house and destroyed after
some time was restored in 2015 and a sign was established by the Municipality of Edremit. Now the sign is removed and the
spring water is cut off, Paylan says. According to him, all documents of
Armenian life are eliminated
**********************************************************************************************
4 – Google
Speech Recognition
Speech Recognition
Now
Supports Armenian
Supports Armenian
SAN JOSE, CA (PanArmenian.Net) – Google speech recognition can now
support the Armenian language,
the company said in a blog post on August 14.
support the Armenian language,
the company said in a blog post on August 14.
After bringing voice typing (instead of typing)
to 30 languages and locales around the world, Google’s speech recognition now
supports 119 language varieties, in Gboard on Android, Voice Search and more.
to 30 languages and locales around the world, Google’s speech recognition now
supports 119 language varieties, in Gboard on Android, Voice Search and more.
The full list of newly supported languages and
locales includes Amharic (Ethiopia), Armenian (Armenia), Azerbaijani
(Azerbaijani), Bengali (Bangladesh, India), English (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria,
Tanzania), Georgian (Georgia), Gujarati (India), Javanese (Indonesia), Kannada
(India), Khmer (Cambodian), Lao (Laos), Latvian (Latvia), Malayalam (India),
Marathi (India), Nepali (Nepal), Sinhala (Sri Lanka), Sundanese (Indonesia),
Swahili (Tanzania, Kenya), Tamil (India, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Malaysia),
Telugu (India), Urdu (Pakistan, India).
locales includes Amharic (Ethiopia), Armenian (Armenia), Azerbaijani
(Azerbaijani), Bengali (Bangladesh, India), English (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria,
Tanzania), Georgian (Georgia), Gujarati (India), Javanese (Indonesia), Kannada
(India), Khmer (Cambodian), Lao (Laos), Latvian (Latvia), Malayalam (India),
Marathi (India), Nepali (Nepal), Sinhala (Sri Lanka), Sundanese (Indonesia),
Swahili (Tanzania, Kenya), Tamil (India, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Malaysia),
Telugu (India), Urdu (Pakistan, India).
“To incorporate 30 new language varieties,
we worked with native speakers to collect speech samples, asking them to read
common phrases,” Google said.
we worked with native speakers to collect speech samples, asking them to read
common phrases,” Google said.
“This process trained our machine learning
models to understand the sounds and words of the new languages and to improve
their accuracy when exposed to more examples over time.”
models to understand the sounds and words of the new languages and to improve
their accuracy when exposed to more examples over time.”
***************************************************************************************************
5 – Caruso
Agrees to Advertise Genocide Documentary
Agrees to Advertise Genocide Documentary
And
Forge Relationship with Armenian Community
Forge Relationship with Armenian Community
GLENDALE – On
August 17, the Armenian National Committee of America – Glendale received a letter from Caruso
Affiliated Executive Vice President of Operations, Jackie Levy condemning
“violence and atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the
Armenian Genocide that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our
community”. The letter also states that Caruso Affiliated will work with
the producers of Architects of Denial and the City of Glendale
in an effort to display the advertisement at the Americana at Brand, at no cost to the
producers.
August 17, the Armenian National Committee of America – Glendale received a letter from Caruso
Affiliated Executive Vice President of Operations, Jackie Levy condemning
“violence and atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the
Armenian Genocide that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our
community”. The letter also states that Caruso Affiliated will work with
the producers of Architects of Denial and the City of Glendale
in an effort to display the advertisement at the Americana at Brand, at no cost to the
producers.
The ANCA Glendale welcomed this important albeit
delayed response as the first step in addressing a larger issue of
insensitivity toward the Armenian-American community and utter lack of outreach
and understanding.
delayed response as the first step in addressing a larger issue of
insensitivity toward the Armenian-American community and utter lack of outreach
and understanding.
“We look forward to working with Americana at Brand and
Caruso Affiliated to further address the community’s needs and develop a
positive and constructive relationship moving forward,” said Elen Asatryan, a
spokesperson for the ANCA Glendale chapter.
Caruso Affiliated to further address the community’s needs and develop a
positive and constructive relationship moving forward,” said Elen Asatryan, a
spokesperson for the ANCA Glendale chapter.
“We especially want to thank the grassroots in
our community who rose to the occasion by making our collective concerns heard
on a larger scale. This outcome shows that when the community is activated,
decision makers will hear its voice,” she said.
our community who rose to the occasion by making our collective concerns heard
on a larger scale. This outcome shows that when the community is activated,
decision makers will hear its voice,” she said.
“We are sincerely grateful to our elected
officials – specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us on the
ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported our
position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor Kathryn
Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian for responding to the call
for action and providing their staunch support that made this possible,”
Asatryan concluded.
officials – specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us on the
ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported our
position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor Kathryn
Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian for responding to the call
for action and providing their staunch support that made this possible,”
Asatryan concluded.
Caruso Agrees to Advertise Genocide Documentary
And Forge Relationship with Armenian Community
GLENDALE – On
August 17, the Armenian National Committee of America – Glendale received a letter from Caruso
Affiliated Executive Vice President of Operations, Jackie Levy condemning
“violence and atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the
Armenian Genocide that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community”.
The letter also states that Caruso Affiliated will work with the producers of
Architects of Denial and the City of Glendale in
an effort to display the advertisement at the Americana at Brand, at no cost to the
producers.
August 17, the Armenian National Committee of America – Glendale received a letter from Caruso
Affiliated Executive Vice President of Operations, Jackie Levy condemning
“violence and atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the
Armenian Genocide that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community”.
The letter also states that Caruso Affiliated will work with the producers of
Architects of Denial and the City of Glendale in
an effort to display the advertisement at the Americana at Brand, at no cost to the
producers.
The ANCA Glendale welcomed this important albeit
delayed response as the first step in addressing a larger issue of
insensitivity toward the Armenian-American community and utter lack of outreach
and understanding.
delayed response as the first step in addressing a larger issue of
insensitivity toward the Armenian-American community and utter lack of outreach
and understanding.
“We look forward to working with Americana at Brand and
Caruso Affiliated to further address the community’s needs and develop a
positive and constructive relationship moving forward,” said Elen Asatryan, a
spokesperson for the ANCA Glendale chapter.
Caruso Affiliated to further address the community’s needs and develop a
positive and constructive relationship moving forward,” said Elen Asatryan, a
spokesperson for the ANCA Glendale chapter.
“We especially want to thank the grassroots in
our community who rose to the occasion by making our collective concerns heard
on a larger scale. This outcome shows that when the community is activated,
decision makers will hear its voice,” she said.
our community who rose to the occasion by making our collective concerns heard
on a larger scale. This outcome shows that when the community is activated,
decision makers will hear its voice,” she said.
“We are sincerely grateful to our elected
officials – specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us on the
ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported our
position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor Kathryn
Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian for responding to the call
for action and providing their staunch support that made this possible,”
Asatryan concluded.
officials – specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us on the
ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported our
position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor Kathryn
Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian for responding to the call
for action and providing their staunch support that made this possible,”
Asatryan concluded.
On August 22, the ANCA and a number of
politicians had scheduled a press conference to announce a community boycott of
the Americana
at Brand.
politicians had scheduled a press conference to announce a community boycott of
the Americana
at Brand.
The press conference was still held, but, this
time to announce the receipt of the letter from Caruso, and discuss the
ramifications of the incident and the resulting action.
time to announce the receipt of the letter from Caruso, and discuss the
ramifications of the incident and the resulting action.
*****************************************************************************************************
6 – U.S. Religious Freedom Report Addresses
Armenian
Church Property Seized in Turkey
Church Property Seized in Turkey
YEREVAN
(Panorama.am) – U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on August 15 presented
the State Department’s annual report on international religious freedom.
(Panorama.am) – U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on August 15 presented
the State Department’s annual report on international religious freedom.
The report for 2016 found that major issues were
also observed in Turkey.
also observed in Turkey.
Referring to properties seized from the
religious minorities by the Turkish government in previous decades, the report
says that the country failed to return them in the indicated year.
religious minorities by the Turkish government in previous decades, the report
says that the country failed to return them in the indicated year.
In particular, it pointed out that the Armenian Apostolic
Church’s Catholicosate of the Great
House of Cilicia (based in Lebanon)
made a second application for expedited review of a lawsuit, filed with the Constitutional Court
in April 2015, to recover the centuries-old headquarters of the Catholicosate
of Sis in the Adana
Province.
Church’s Catholicosate of the Great
House of Cilicia (based in Lebanon)
made a second application for expedited review of a lawsuit, filed with the Constitutional Court
in April 2015, to recover the centuries-old headquarters of the Catholicosate
of Sis in the Adana
Province.
It is noted that according to the lawsuit, the
headquarters, now controlled by the government but once a center of Armenian
Christian life, was wrongly seized in 1915 and should be returned. In June the Constitutional Court
rejected the application on procedural grounds. In December the Catholicosate
applied to the ECHR for the return of the property.
headquarters, now controlled by the government but once a center of Armenian
Christian life, was wrongly seized in 1915 and should be returned. In June the Constitutional Court
rejected the application on procedural grounds. In December the Catholicosate
applied to the ECHR for the return of the property.
The report also notes that the Turkish
authorities have canceled religious services at the Armenian church on Akhtamar Island
on Lake Van.
authorities have canceled religious services at the Armenian church on Akhtamar Island
on Lake Van.
It also made a reference to the elections of the
Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul, stating that the Turkish authorities interfered
in the election process of the Armenian Patriarch.
Armenian Patriarch of Istanbul, stating that the Turkish authorities interfered
in the election process of the Armenian Patriarch.
*****************************************************************************************************
7 – Baku Asked Israeli Firm to
Conduct
Conduct
Drone
Strike Test Against Armenians
Strike Test Against Armenians
JERUSALEM, (Maariv) –
The Israeli Defense Ministry is checking reports that Aeronautics Defense
Systems had been asked by Azerbaijan to
carry out a live demonstration of an armed unmanned aerial vehicle against an
Armenian military position in Artsakh.
The Israeli Defense Ministry is checking reports that Aeronautics Defense
Systems had been asked by Azerbaijan to
carry out a live demonstration of an armed unmanned aerial vehicle against an
Armenian military position in Artsakh.
The Israeli daily reported on August 13 that a
team belonging to the Israeli defense company arrived in Baku to finalize a contract for the sale of
its Orbiter 1K UAV
when they were asked to strike the position. According to the report, the two
Israeli pilots operating the UAV refused to hit the position and senior
representatives of the company took control and operated the craft themselves,
ultimately missing their targets.
team belonging to the Israeli defense company arrived in Baku to finalize a contract for the sale of
its Orbiter 1K UAV
when they were asked to strike the position. According to the report, the two
Israeli pilots operating the UAV refused to hit the position and senior
representatives of the company took control and operated the craft themselves,
ultimately missing their targets.
The Israeli Defense Ministry said that while “as
a rule, the Defense Ministry does not make it a practice to comment on issues
involving military exports, the claim is being examined by the relevant parties
at the ministry.”
a rule, the Defense Ministry does not make it a practice to comment on issues
involving military exports, the claim is being examined by the relevant parties
at the ministry.”
Aeronautics Defense Systems strongly denied that
the event ever occurred claiming that “Aeronautics never performs
demonstrations using live fire and that was true in this case as well” and that
the operation of the craft is carried out by the purchaser and whatever occurs
is the purchaser’s responsibility.
the event ever occurred claiming that “Aeronautics never performs
demonstrations using live fire and that was true in this case as well” and that
the operation of the craft is carried out by the purchaser and whatever occurs
is the purchaser’s responsibility.
Two senior members of the delegation who were
present in Baku
allegedly tried to persuade the two pilots – who refused to operate the drone
against Armenian positions – to change their minds, threatened to punish them
and explained that their refusal to comply with the request would harm the
company’s chances of winning a contract. The two senior officials had to
demonstrate a drone strike themselves, but apparently because of their lack of
proficiency in operating the drones, the aircraft missed the target, with no
casualties or damage registered as a result.
present in Baku
allegedly tried to persuade the two pilots – who refused to operate the drone
against Armenian positions – to change their minds, threatened to punish them
and explained that their refusal to comply with the request would harm the
company’s chances of winning a contract. The two senior officials had to
demonstrate a drone strike themselves, but apparently because of their lack of
proficiency in operating the drones, the aircraft missed the target, with no
casualties or damage registered as a result.
Aeronautics’s Orbiter 1K is a loitering suicide drone capable of
carrying a 1 to 2 kg. explosive payload.
carrying a 1 to 2 kg. explosive payload.
**************************************************************************************************
8 – Dutch
Deports Asylum-Seeking Mother
Deports Asylum-Seeking Mother
As
Children, 11 and 12, Go into Hiding
Children, 11 and 12, Go into Hiding
AMERSFOORT, The Netherlands (Dutchnews)Two
children who have lived in the Netherlands for nine years but face deportation
to Armenia have gone into hiding while their mother is deported, broadcaster NOS said last week.
children who have lived in the Netherlands for nine years but face deportation
to Armenia have gone into hiding while their mother is deported, broadcaster NOS said last week.
Armina Hambartsjumian, the mother of Lily, 11
and Howick, 12, was picked up at her home at a refugee centre in Amersfoort
last week and was put on a flight to Paris on Monday, Defence for Children said. She will then be put on
another plane to Yerevan.
and Howick, 12, was picked up at her home at a refugee centre in Amersfoort
last week and was put on a flight to Paris on Monday, Defence for Children said. She will then be put on
another plane to Yerevan.
‘We have never before come across a case in
which a mother is deported while the children remain in the Netherlands,’ Defence for Children
said. The children were born in Russia
and have never been to Armenia.
Nor do they speak the language.
which a mother is deported while the children remain in the Netherlands,’ Defence for Children
said. The children were born in Russia
and have never been to Armenia.
Nor do they speak the language.
The children were not at home when their mother
was picked up and their whereabouts are unknown. She has also refused to say
where they are, NOS said.
was picked up and their whereabouts are unknown. She has also refused to say
where they are, NOS said.
Last Friday, judges in The Hague ruled that the family can be
deported because the children do not qualify for the child amnesty introduced
by the outgoing government in 2012. In order to qualify, children must have
become rooted in the Netherlands
and their families must have cooperated with attempts to deport them.
deported because the children do not qualify for the child amnesty introduced
by the outgoing government in 2012. In order to qualify, children must have
become rooted in the Netherlands
and their families must have cooperated with attempts to deport them.
In addition, the fact that the mother has been
separated from her children is her own fault, the court said.
separated from her children is her own fault, the court said.
Appeal
On Friday, friends of the children made a
last-ditch appeal to junior justice minister Klaas Dijkhoff for clemency.
Supporters of the family say they should be allowed to stay while the coalition
negotiations are ongoing. A chance in the amnesty rules are thought to be one
of the topics up for discussion.
last-ditch appeal to junior justice minister Klaas Dijkhoff for clemency.
Supporters of the family say they should be allowed to stay while the coalition
negotiations are ongoing. A chance in the amnesty rules are thought to be one
of the topics up for discussion.
ChristenUnie and D66 are both
part of the coalition talks and the two parties were involved with efforts to
relax the rules earlier. ‘I am aware of the situation, but giving a reaction
would not be in the children’s interests, ChristenUnie MP Joel Voordewind told
Trouw.
part of the coalition talks and the two parties were involved with efforts to
relax the rules earlier. ‘I am aware of the situation, but giving a reaction
would not be in the children’s interests, ChristenUnie MP Joel Voordewind told
Trouw.
Only 4% of the 3,000 application under the child
amnesty rules have been successful.
amnesty rules have been successful.
The children’s ombudsman Margrite Kalverboar has
described the deportation as a scandal and says the amnesty rules need to be
changed.
described the deportation as a scandal and says the amnesty rules need to be
changed.
The mother told NOS last week she does not know
how she will manage in Armenia.
Despite having Armenian nationality, she was born in Azerbaijan
and came to the Netherlands
via Russia.
how she will manage in Armenia.
Despite having Armenian nationality, she was born in Azerbaijan
and came to the Netherlands
via Russia.
********************************************************************************************************
9 – Americana Reverses Rejection of Genocide Film
Ad in Wake of Uproar from Armenian
Community
Community
GLENDALE, CA – On Aug. 15, the Armenian National
Committee of America-Glendale held a press conference at the Americana at Brand
to update the media and the community at large on its next steps in addressing
the issue surrounding Caruso Affiliated’s prior decision to reject
advertisement space for the upcoming Armenian Genocide documentary, “Architects
of Denial.”
Committee of America-Glendale held a press conference at the Americana at Brand
to update the media and the community at large on its next steps in addressing
the issue surrounding Caruso Affiliated’s prior decision to reject
advertisement space for the upcoming Armenian Genocide documentary, “Architects
of Denial.”
Initially, the press conference was planned to
announce an official boycott of the Americana at Brand and Caruso Affiliated
based on its utter lack of sensitivity toward the Armenian-American community,
its decision to reject billboard space calling it “too political,”
claiming that the advertisement would violate their “guideline principle,”
which is to “ensure that everyone in the community feels welcome” and Mr.
Caruso’s unwillingness to immediately meet with ANCA Glendale to rectify the
situation.
announce an official boycott of the Americana at Brand and Caruso Affiliated
based on its utter lack of sensitivity toward the Armenian-American community,
its decision to reject billboard space calling it “too political,”
claiming that the advertisement would violate their “guideline principle,”
which is to “ensure that everyone in the community feels welcome” and Mr.
Caruso’s unwillingness to immediately meet with ANCA Glendale to rectify the
situation.
But as the organization was setting up the
microphones on the green public park in the heart of the Americana at Brand, Caruso Affiliated,
submitted a response letter to the organization condemning “violence and
atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the Armenian Genocide
that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community.” The letter also
stated that Caruso Affiliated will work with the producers of “Architects of
Denial” and the City of Glendale in an effort to
display the advertisement at the Americana
at Brand, at no cost to the producers.
microphones on the green public park in the heart of the Americana at Brand, Caruso Affiliated,
submitted a response letter to the organization condemning “violence and
atrocities of any form anywhere in the world, including the Armenian Genocide
that has impacted the lives of Armenians in our community.” The letter also
stated that Caruso Affiliated will work with the producers of “Architects of
Denial” and the City of Glendale in an effort to
display the advertisement at the Americana
at Brand, at no cost to the producers.
The press conference was kicked off with opening
remarks by former ANCA-WR Executive Director, Elen Asatryan who thanked the
media and the community members, and announced the long list of elected
officials and community leaders who were in attendance, standing in solidarity
with the organization.
remarks by former ANCA-WR Executive Director, Elen Asatryan who thanked the
media and the community members, and announced the long list of elected
officials and community leaders who were in attendance, standing in solidarity
with the organization.
ANCA Glendale Chair, Artin Manoukian then took
to the podium to provide the organization’s statement. “Let us be abundantly
clear, the Americana serves at the pleasure of the City of Glendale and its
citizens, not the other way around…the Americana was basing its decisions on
Turkish government interests that oppose the values of tolerance, respect for
all cultures and in this case the facts of history. Exposing genocide is never
something that should be silenced.”
to the podium to provide the organization’s statement. “Let us be abundantly
clear, the Americana serves at the pleasure of the City of Glendale and its
citizens, not the other way around…the Americana was basing its decisions on
Turkish government interests that oppose the values of tolerance, respect for
all cultures and in this case the facts of history. Exposing genocide is never
something that should be silenced.”
Manoukian concluded his remarks with “We
appreciate these initial positive steps the Americana and Caruso Affiliated are taking.
However, this is not how a company like Caruso Affiliated should be demonstrating
its corporate citizenship. Caruso Affiliated must seek a relationship with the
community that demonstrates, in concrete terms, its understanding and care for
the surrounding community and our city. In the coming weeks, we look forward to
meeting with Mr. Rick Caruso and his management team to discuss, in concrete
terms, how we can forge a better relationship and bond between the community
and the Americana
and Caruso Affiliated that results in a genuine, constructive and meaningful
long-term relationship.”
appreciate these initial positive steps the Americana and Caruso Affiliated are taking.
However, this is not how a company like Caruso Affiliated should be demonstrating
its corporate citizenship. Caruso Affiliated must seek a relationship with the
community that demonstrates, in concrete terms, its understanding and care for
the surrounding community and our city. In the coming weeks, we look forward to
meeting with Mr. Rick Caruso and his management team to discuss, in concrete
terms, how we can forge a better relationship and bond between the community
and the Americana
and Caruso Affiliated that results in a genuine, constructive and meaningful
long-term relationship.”
Executive Producer of Architects of Denial, Dean
Cain followed Mr. Manoukian’s comments by thanking Mr. Caruso for “recognizing
that genocide is not a political issue, it’s a historical fact.” Cain
concluded with, “I am glad to see this first step and I hope the film will
educate people.”
Cain followed Mr. Manoukian’s comments by thanking Mr. Caruso for “recognizing
that genocide is not a political issue, it’s a historical fact.” Cain
concluded with, “I am glad to see this first step and I hope the film will
educate people.”
CA State Senator Anthony Portantino, who joined
the efforts on the ground on day one with the release of a strong statement,
personally communicated with Caruso Affiliated, and spoke at the Glendale City
Council meeting this past Tuesday took to the podium stating, “I am proud to
stand here today. Yes, we should appreciate the effort that’s been done, but it
also underscores why we make documentaries about historical facts.Let’s be
clear the atrocities of 1915 are not in dispute. A movie about a historical
fact should not be subject to additional scrutiny for its advertising.”
Portantino ended his remarks with a, “shout out to the grassroots who
advocated, posted, made calls and sent emails. Remember, people power trumps
money power all day long”.
the efforts on the ground on day one with the release of a strong statement,
personally communicated with Caruso Affiliated, and spoke at the Glendale City
Council meeting this past Tuesday took to the podium stating, “I am proud to
stand here today. Yes, we should appreciate the effort that’s been done, but it
also underscores why we make documentaries about historical facts.Let’s be
clear the atrocities of 1915 are not in dispute. A movie about a historical
fact should not be subject to additional scrutiny for its advertising.”
Portantino ended his remarks with a, “shout out to the grassroots who
advocated, posted, made calls and sent emails. Remember, people power trumps
money power all day long”.
Senator Portantino’s remarks were followed by
Glendale Mayor Vartan Gharpetian who spoke on behalf of all four Councilmembers
present stated, “As the proud Mayor of our Jewel
City and the home to more than 100,000
Armenian-Americans, I called the actions of Americana at Brand, as too insulting, and too
far from advocating for human rights.”
Glendale Mayor Vartan Gharpetian who spoke on behalf of all four Councilmembers
present stated, “As the proud Mayor of our Jewel
City and the home to more than 100,000
Armenian-Americans, I called the actions of Americana at Brand, as too insulting, and too
far from advocating for human rights.”
“Today, I am pleased that Caruso Affiliated took
the necessary steps to learn about the historical facts and acknowledging the
atrocities of the Armenian Genocide in their letter of apology received today,”
he added.
the necessary steps to learn about the historical facts and acknowledging the
atrocities of the Armenian Genocide in their letter of apology received today,”
he added.
In the final statement provided by the Armenian
Bar Association, Boardmember Garo Ghazarian, Esq. stated, “Yet, we still
demand. We demand that Mr. Caruso deliver to the public an open apology from
the Americana for their reckless manipulation of Armenian history; We also
demand that Mr. Caruso ensure — in swift fashion — that information about arts
projects, education, and public outreach addressing the Armenian Genocide enjoy
the full light of day and the bright lights of public display at the Americana.
Time was running out an hour ago. Time is now up.”
Bar Association, Boardmember Garo Ghazarian, Esq. stated, “Yet, we still
demand. We demand that Mr. Caruso deliver to the public an open apology from
the Americana for their reckless manipulation of Armenian history; We also
demand that Mr. Caruso ensure — in swift fashion — that information about arts
projects, education, and public outreach addressing the Armenian Genocide enjoy
the full light of day and the bright lights of public display at the Americana.
Time was running out an hour ago. Time is now up.”
The press conference ended with final words by
Asatryan thanking the “grassroots and the community organizations that rose to
the occasion, and “specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us
on the ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported
our position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor
Kathryn Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian.” Complete
video of the press conference is available online at
www.ancaglendale.org/press-kit.
Asatryan thanking the “grassroots and the community organizations that rose to
the occasion, and “specifically State Senator Anthony Portantino who joined us
on the ground from day one, members of the Glendale City Council who supported
our position, as well as US Congressman Adam Schiff, LA County Supervisor
Kathryn Barger, and Los Angeles Councilmember Paul Krekorian.” Complete
video of the press conference is available online at
www.ancaglendale.org/press-kit.
Leading up to the press conference, ANCA
Glendale submitted letters to The Americana at Brand and Caruso Affiliated requesting
an immediate meeting and action to rectify this situation. On August 9,
2017, the organization also launched a letter and call in campaign available at
www.ancaglendale.org/endthegag. The action alert resulted in over 10,000 emails
and phone calls to the management.from residents, business owners and customers
of the establishment, calling for immediate action.
Glendale submitted letters to The Americana at Brand and Caruso Affiliated requesting
an immediate meeting and action to rectify this situation. On August 9,
2017, the organization also launched a letter and call in campaign available at
www.ancaglendale.org/endthegag. The action alert resulted in over 10,000 emails
and phone calls to the management.from residents, business owners and customers
of the establishment, calling for immediate action.
On August 15, Executive Producers of
“Architects of Denial,” Montel Williams and Dean Cain released a statement
noting “The seriousness of this issue cannot and should not be understated.
This is no longer about our movie or an advertisement. This is about
vindicating the dignity of the victims and the survivors of a genocide.”
Complete statement is available at www.ancaglendale.org/montel-cain/.
“Architects of Denial,” Montel Williams and Dean Cain released a statement
noting “The seriousness of this issue cannot and should not be understated.
This is no longer about our movie or an advertisement. This is about
vindicating the dignity of the victims and the survivors of a genocide.”
Complete statement is available at www.ancaglendale.org/montel-cain/.
The same evening, dozens of community leaders
and members, including ANCA Glendale Chair Artin Manoukian and State Senator
Anthony Portantino took to the Glendale City Council to provide powerful
testimonies and ask the city to take immediate action in resolving the
matter. The councilmembers ended the oral communication section by
condemning Caruso Affiliated’s decision and agendizing the matter for the next
city council meeting.
and members, including ANCA Glendale Chair Artin Manoukian and State Senator
Anthony Portantino took to the Glendale City Council to provide powerful
testimonies and ask the city to take immediate action in resolving the
matter. The councilmembers ended the oral communication section by
condemning Caruso Affiliated’s decision and agendizing the matter for the next
city council meeting.
Elected officials and community organizations
present at the press conference included CA State Senator Anthony Portantino,
Glendale Mayor Vartan Gharpetian, Glendale Councilmembers Ara Najarian, Zareh
Sinanyan, Paula Devine, Vrej Aghajanian, Glendale City Clerk Ardashes
Kassakhian, Glendale Unified School District Board President Nayiri Nahabedian
and members Dr. Armine Gharpetian and Shant Sahakian, Glendale Community
College Board President Dr. Armine Hacopian and Trustee Yvette Vartanian Davis,
and Crescenta Valley Town Council President Harry Leon.
present at the press conference included CA State Senator Anthony Portantino,
Glendale Mayor Vartan Gharpetian, Glendale Councilmembers Ara Najarian, Zareh
Sinanyan, Paula Devine, Vrej Aghajanian, Glendale City Clerk Ardashes
Kassakhian, Glendale Unified School District Board President Nayiri Nahabedian
and members Dr. Armine Gharpetian and Shant Sahakian, Glendale Community
College Board President Dr. Armine Hacopian and Trustee Yvette Vartanian Davis,
and Crescenta Valley Town Council President Harry Leon.
In addition to the attendees, the following
organizations also joined ANCA Glendale as coalition partners in an official
call to action: American Hellenic Council, ANCA La Crescenta, Burbank,
Hollywood Chapters, Armenian American Chamber of Commerce, Armenian American
Council on Aging, Armenian Bar Association, Armenian Cultural Foundation,
Armenian Educational Foundation, Armenian Society of Los Angeles, Armenian
Youth Association of California, Armenian Relief Society – Glendale Chapter,
Assyrian American Association of Southern CA, Committee for Armenian Students
in Public Schools, Davidian/Mariamian Educational Foundation, Homenetmen
Glendale Ararat Chapter, Glendale Teachers Association, Hamazkayin Armenian
Cultural & Educational Society – Glendale Chapter, Korean American Forum of
California, Korea Glendale Sister City Association, New Joulfa Zartonk
Association, Richard Tufenkian Pre-School, SEYFO Center – Assyrian Genocide
Research Center, SWANA-LA (Southwest Asian And North Afrikan – Los Angeles ),
Urmia Armenian Society, Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School.
organizations also joined ANCA Glendale as coalition partners in an official
call to action: American Hellenic Council, ANCA La Crescenta, Burbank,
Hollywood Chapters, Armenian American Chamber of Commerce, Armenian American
Council on Aging, Armenian Bar Association, Armenian Cultural Foundation,
Armenian Educational Foundation, Armenian Society of Los Angeles, Armenian
Youth Association of California, Armenian Relief Society – Glendale Chapter,
Assyrian American Association of Southern CA, Committee for Armenian Students
in Public Schools, Davidian/Mariamian Educational Foundation, Homenetmen
Glendale Ararat Chapter, Glendale Teachers Association, Hamazkayin Armenian
Cultural & Educational Society – Glendale Chapter, Korean American Forum of
California, Korea Glendale Sister City Association, New Joulfa Zartonk
Association, Richard Tufenkian Pre-School, SEYFO Center – Assyrian Genocide
Research Center, SWANA-LA (Southwest Asian And North Afrikan – Los Angeles ),
Urmia Armenian Society, Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School.
********************************************************************************************************
California Courier Online provides viewers of
the Armenian News News Service with a few of the articles in this week’s issue of The
California Courier. Letters to the
editor are encouraged through our e-mail address, [email protected]. However,
authors are requested to provide their names, addresses, and/or telephone
numbers to verify identity, if any question arises. California Courier
subscribers are requested not to use this service to change, or modify mailing
addresses. Those changes can be made through our e-mail, , or by
phone, (818) 409-0949.
the Armenian News News Service with a few of the articles in this week’s issue of The
California Courier. Letters to the
editor are encouraged through our e-mail address, [email protected]. However,
authors are requested to provide their names, addresses, and/or telephone
numbers to verify identity, if any question arises. California Courier
subscribers are requested not to use this service to change, or modify mailing
addresses. Those changes can be made through our e-mail, , or by
phone, (818) 409-0949.
******************************************************************************************************
Film: The Art of Narrating a Trauma – Film Review of ‘The Promise’
The Armenian Weekly
Aug 16 2017
Special for the Armenian Weekly
Reconstructing the history of a crime, reorganizing the narrative of a tragedy, resetting the scene of a murder, or simply pointing toward a criminal hidden behind the thick layers of the past. Those are some of the roles of a filmic category that one might call the “cinema of remembrance.”
The film “The Promise” fits into this category. It beautifully portrays an epic journey of an Armenian medical student (Mikael) who falls in love in Istanbul with Ana, an Armenian-born woman who in turn was engaged to an American journalist reporting from the capital of the Ottoman Empire. The plot merges the struggle of a threatened community with an intricate love story in the highly tense political context of World War I.
A still from ‘The Promise’ (Photo: Open Road Films)
The complex net of stories and genres provoked two distinct results: It gave the film a heavy and necessary emotional charge; but it also blurred the content, fragmented the message, and drowned the real motto of this genre of cinema. The motto being simply the following: “We were killed, and the world has to know this.” Instead, Terry George presents the movie as a history of struggle, of resistance, of a power negotiation between two unequal forces. Terry George transformed the story of a genocide into a history of a war. He implicitly turned the coldblooded murder into a regular conflict between an organized army and a rebellious militia. And by trying to attach a certain heroism to the resisting Armenian community, the movie missed the primary definition of a genocide—that it is not war, but an organized act of systematic murder of an entire community.
A war entails two opponents; a genocide is about a murderer and a victim. A war is a common responsibility; a genocide is one-sided, autistic, blind.
Armenians resisted the Ottoman army’s barbarity, and their heroism is undeniable, but historical accuracy and the narration of a trauma are two different matters. The goal of a cinema of remembrance is not to relate “all what happened” but “all we should remember,”—and, in this case, what to remember is the victimhood of the Armenians and not their resistance, the genocide and not the war. In other words, and to finish, a movie depicting a genocide should have revolved around a “this is what they did” and not a “this is all what happened.”
A movie resuscitating a crime should have more victims than heroes, and “The Promise” was a beautiful epic journey of too many heroes.
Culture: Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre Presents BEST OF KHACHATURIAN
Noho Arts District
Aug 15 2017
Written by Lisa
Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre presents BEST OF KHACHATURIAN at the Alex Theatre on Sunday, September 17, 2017.
The Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre, under the direction of Natasha Middleton and Ruben Tonoian, will present “The Best of Khachaturian” on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at the beautiful Alex Theatre. The afternoon will include selections from such famous ballets as “Spartacus,” “Gayane,” “Masquerade” and a new ballet by Natalie Middleton, “Remember” dedicated to the memory of the Armenian Genocide.
Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre presents BEST OF KHACHATURIAN “Spartacus”
“This show is dedicated to the Armenian Genocide,”says co-artistic director Natasha Middleton. “We chose Aram Khachaturian because he is Armenia’s preeminent composer. His ballets “Gayane,” “Masquerade” and “Spartacus” are the most famous. Our principle ballerina for “Masquerade,” Alina Bormotova (North Hollywood local) originally danced with the Moscow Festival Ballet and the Russian National Ballet. She will be dancing with Grigori Arakelyan, principle dancer from the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Armenia and Alexander Fost, finalist in “So You Think You Can Dance.” “Spartacus” will be danced by Inga Demetryan and Eduard Sargsyan also both from the Opera and Ballet Theatre of Armenia. “Gayane” will be performed by principle dancers Elen Harutyunyan (another North Hollywood local) from San Francisco Ballet and National Ballet of Armenia and Edgar Nikolyan of the Staats Opera Ballet in Vienna, Austria.”
Sunday, September 17, 2017 – 5PM
The Alex Theatre
216 No. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91203
alextheatre.org | 818-243-2539
Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre presents BEST OF KHACHATURIAN “Gayne”
Aram Khachaturian was born and raised in Tbilisi, Georgia. He moved to Moscow in 1921 after the Sovietization of Georgia and enrolled in the Gnessin Musical Institute, and Moscow Conservatory. His most famous works include the Masquerade Suite (1941), the Anthem of the Armenian SSR (1944), three symphonies (1935, 1943, 1947), and around 25 film scores. Khachaturian is best known for his ballet music—Gayane (1942) and Spartacus (1954). His most popular piece is the “Sabre Dance” from Gayan and has been covered by many musicians around the world.
Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre, originally named Media City Ballet, announced its formation on September 30th of 2001. Over the past decade, the company has gained a notable following and has grown to become one of the major dance companies within the greater Los Angeles area. Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre attracts first-class talent from around the world, including Armenia, Asia, Russia, Mexico and Spain. Company dancers possess credentials of study and performance from such companies as Armenian National Opera Ballet, the Bolshoi Theatre Ballet, the Kirov Opera and Ballet Company, the Korean National Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and Cirque du Soleil. Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre boasts a large, varied repertoire and produces several major programs annually. Educational outreach programs and performances to enrich our sponsored youth ballet.
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Armenian Apostolic Church marks Feast of Assumption of Holy Mother
News.am, Armenia
Aug 13 2017
Armenian Apostolic Church marks Feast of Assumption of Holy Mother (PHOTOS)
15:02, 13.08.2017
The Apostolic Church of Armenia celebrates the Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God. It is the fourth of five major feasts of the Armenian Apostolic Church, as well as the oldest one dedicated to St. Mary (photos).
Divine Liturgy was served in all the churches of the republic. Grape blessing ceremony was held after the liturgy served in Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin. According to the tradition, the first harvest is brought to the church and one can eat the grape only after the blessing.
The Feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God is followed by the Remembrance Day of the Dead.
The number of suicides increased in Armenia
ArmInfo, Armenia
ArmInfo.In the first half of 2017, 6069 emergency situations were registered in Armenia, as a result of which 4866 people were injured – 149 of them died. This was stated by the head of the National Center for Crisis Management of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Armenia Hovhannes Khangeldyan on July 24 at a press conference.
According to him, compared to the same period of 2016, the number of emergencies in Armenia increased by 867 or 16.7%. 3534 emergency cases were man-caused, in which 110 people were killed, 2,261 people were injured. 2357 emergencies were of a socio-biological nature, as a result of which 2,601 people were injured – 37 of them were killed.
“The prevailing majority of emergency cases are road accidents, fires and poisonings – 91%,” Khangeldyan said. In particular, 2 people were killed and 26 were injured in a fire (1,877 cases), 101 people died from an accident and 2,216 (1499 cases, 109 more than last year’s figure) were injured, the total number of poisonings was 181, in which 30 people died, suffered 2598.
During the reporting period, the number of suicides also increased – 89 cases were registered, having increased by 5 compared to the same period of the previous year. The prevailing majority of suicides – 56, occurred in apartments and cottages, 12 – from multi-storey buildings, 5 – fromBridges. The number of suicides in public places was 3 suicides, in the open places there were 2 suicides, in other places – 11.
Sports: Armenian freestyle wrestlers win five medals at Francophone Games
Panorama, Armenia
The Armenian team has had a successful start at the VIII Games of La Francophonie launched in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, with Armenian freestyle wrestlers claiming five medals.
According to a press release by the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, Armenian athlete Khachatur Papikyan won the gold in the 70 kg weight class. Varuzhan Kojoyan (74 kg) and Mkhitar Grigoryan (57 kg) became silver medalists, while Vaghinak Matevosyan (65kg) and Ashot Velitsyan (61kg) took the bronze.
Armenian athlete Marzpet Galstyan (86kg) will enter the competition today.
The Armenian team features 15 sportsmen, namely 4 athletes, 2 cyclists, 3 judo wrestlers and 6 freestyle wrestlers, who represent the country at the 8th Francophone Games.