Category: 2019

GLENDALE— The gala will take place on Sunday, August 25 at Renaissance Banquet Hall in Glendale.

Born in 1965 in Beirut, Lebanon, Archpriest Vazken Atmajian was dedicated to serving the Armenian community. First as a scholar of Antelias Seminary, then as a member of the Lebanon Homenetmen family, and an altar boy in his hometown’s St. Sarkis Church, Archpriest Atmajian knew he was destined to serve his people.

In 1984, he migrated to the United States with his family, where he settled in Los Angeles and attended Glendale Community College. Soon, he began to attend special courses of the priesthood program offered by the Western Prelacy. He married Anahid Jabourian in 1988 and was blessed with two children, Tamar and Shahan, and a son-in-law, Taniel Hasserjian. All are active members of the Armenian community.

Upon his ordainment as a priest, he served the local St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church from 1993 to May of 1999 and, since 1999 has served St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church of Glendale. In addition to his work as reverend, Archpriest Vazken Atmajian accepted teaching positions for Religion and Ethics at Rose and Alex Pilibos and Vahan & Anoush Chamlian Armenian Schools and taught countless life lessons, morals, values, and an Armenian, Christian way of life to hundreds of students over the years.

Archpriest Atmajian remains the link between the Western Prelacy and Homenetmen, and offers his spiritual services at both Memorial Hospital, where he was appointed as a foundation board, and Adventist Hospital, where he is on the advisory board. He has served the Glendale Police Department as both a spiritual counselor and a chaplain.

Archpriest Atmajian has a close partnership with Armenian and non-Armenian organizations, associations and institutions in Glendale and has been dedicated to improving the social and spiritual life of his region’s administrative and spiritual realms. For him, there is no measure to a task; there is only wholehearted service. It is with this awareness that Archpriest Vazken Atmajian works in the Glendale Region and attempts to please those who seek him the most. It is for his kindness and genuine willingness to help that he has become a beacon of hope for many.

ANCA Glendale will honor Archpriest Vazken Atmajian, along with Armenian Youth Association of California, YWCA Glendale, Asbarez Daily Newspaper, Lena Kortoshian and Nicholetta Sarkissian at the annual Award and Appreciation Gala. For more tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit the website.

The ANCA Glendale Chapter advocates for the social, economic, cultural, and political rights of the city’s Armenian American community and promotes increased civic participation at the grassroots and public policy levels. Learn more online.

KAVAR, Armenia—The fifth Portable Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory was delivered to Armenia by the Armenian Technology Group, Inc. This time the portable laboratory was stationed in Kavar, by Lake Sevan, in Gegharkunik region of Armenia.

Garik Degoyan, head of Kavar Regional Veterinary Services, was excited to take possession of the latest PVDL. “I have been anxiously waiting to have received this amazing package since I first saw it demonstrated a few years ago. We never had such flexibility and efficacy in our hands. This will be very useful to us; we can reach the farmers and provide fast service to their animal health concerns, no matter where they might be located,” stated Degoyan.

The PVDL and its components were hand carried to Armenia by the President of the ATG Board of Directors, Dr. James P. Reynolds—Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine—who had initiated the concept of PVDL, as well as the Executive Director of ATG, Varoujan Der Simonian.

The Portable Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories enables local veterinarians to provide on-farm and on-site veterinary services to domestic, cattle, and dairy producing livestock, thereby helping prevent the loss of farm animals and subsequently farm income.

The PVDLs could be used by veterinarians to conduct an on-farm and on-site diagnoses of animals for complete blood counts, including WBC and RBC; Culturing and incubation of bacteria; Fecal examinations; Staining and microscopy of tissues, fluids, bacteria and parasites; Semen analysis; Serum chemistries and Urinalysis.

“In celebration of our 30th anniversary in serving the people of Armenia, ATG is pleased to have stationed another PVDL in Armenia,” said Dr. Reynolds. “We believe these portable laboratories present the opportunity to significantly enhance the veterinary diagnostic capabilities of livestock industry in Armenia.”

The Armenian Technology Group was founded 30 years ago, in 1989, to assist the people of Armenia toward agricultural development. Since 2015 however, ATG has placed five PVDLs at the Regional Centers for Veterinary Services in Yerevan, Vanadsor, Ijevan, Goris and now Kavar.

During their trip, representatives of the ATG met with Berg Tumanyan, DVM the head of Central Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Armenia and Georgi Avetisyan, Director of State Food Safety Services. Avetisyan also oversees Veterinary Services, which, after restructuring of the government, were moved outside of the ministry and placed under direct supervision of the Prime Minister’s Cabinet. They visited with local veterinarians as well, and evaluated previously stationed PVDL sites.

ATG is a California based non-profit organization. Tax-deductible donations could be made on line through the organizations website or mailed to Armenian Technology Group, Inc. P.O. BOX 5929 Fresno, CA 93755.

The ARS of Western USA’s 97th Regional Convention was held at the Armenian Sisters Academy in Montrose, California. In participation were 69 delegates, 11 guests, Central Executive Members Dr. Nyree Derderian, Rita Hintlian, and Maral Matossian, as well as numerous observers. The convention was hosted by the 2017 – 2019 Regional Executive Board from July 12 to 14.

The convention’s opening ceremony was held starting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 12 with the attendance of Western Prelate Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian; Archpriest Vicken Vassilian; ARS Central Executive Members; representatives of the ARF Central Committee, ANCA Western Region, AYF Central Executive, Homenetmen, Hamazkayin; Armenian Sisters Academy Principal Sister Lucia Al Haik; delegates, and observers.

On behalf of the ARS Regional Executive Board, Chairperson Silva Poladian delivered welcoming remarks and outlined the importance of the region’s highest meeting, which would allow members the opportunity to examine and evaluate the organization’s work and activities throughout the 2017 – 2019 term, on a regional level. She extended special appreciation to Prelate Mardirossian, the ARS Central Executive, ARF Central Committee, local and sister organizations, the Glendale City Council, as well as the region’s 24 chapters and members for their close collaboration during the two-year term.

After these remarks, Homenetmen Western Region scouts performed the flag ceremony, marching with the American, Armenian, Artsakh, California, and ARS flags, led by the instruction of Joslyn Abajian. Singer Raffi Kerbabian then sang the American, Armenian, and ARS anthems.

Prelate Mardirossian delivered a prayer and conveyed his message, stating “The ARS is not only a universally beloved organization, it is an indispensable organization. The scope of its influence is immeasurable and the lives it has touched countless. It is a blessing in every sense of the word for Armenians of all ages, and for the perpetuation of our heritage and of our nation. As you reflect on the achievements and also the challenges of the previous term in preparation for a new term of service, may the successes of the past be the impetus and inspiration that guide you to new heights in future endeavors.”

The ARF Central Committee’s message was delivered by Garo Ispendjian, who stressed the significance of the worldwide and humanitarian service of the Armenian Relief Society, as well as the importance of the convention’s close evaluation of the organization’s work and activities. He called upon delegates to focus on upcoming programs and work, citing the continuation of the organization’s aid and assistance to Javakhk; advancing ARS schools, especially in distant communities; and focusing on after school programs for youth. He extended his thankfulness to the 2017 – 2019 Regional Executive Board with whom he worked closely during the two-year term, and extended wishes for the convention’s success.

The ARS Central Executive’s message was delivered by Maral Matossian, who recognized the ARS of Western USA region as one of the most important pillars of the organization and conveyed her expectation for the three-day convention to be most productive and implement decisions that are bold and thoughtful. She emphasized the importance of working collaboratively with united spirit to advance the humanitarian programs that serve the Armenian people in the Homeland and throughout the Diaspora.

Following the opening ceremony, the ARS 97th Regional Convention was announced officially in session by the 2017 – 2019 Regional Executive Chairperson Silva Poladian, who touched on the Regional Executive Board’s emphasis throughout the two-year term to cultivate solidarity between the Board and its chapters, as well as to stress the importance of the collective over the individual. Thereafter, Poladian called upon the nomination to begin for the convention’s temporary officers.

Delegates elected the convention’s temporary officers, as follows: Chairperson Annie Kechichian (Armenian), Chairperson Angela Savoyan (English), Nune Jamakordzian (Armenian Secretary) and Hilda Fidanian (English Secretary).

The Regional Executive Board’s guests to the convention included Nevart Mooradian, Haigoush Kohler, and Vicky Marashlian.

Thereafter, elections for the Credentials Examination Committee were held. While members of this committee examined delegate questionnaire forms, executive representative delegates were given the opportunity to report on major chapter activities. Next, it was decided that the temporary officers would remain as the convention’s permanent officers with two additional officers elected, including Hermine Parseghian (Armenian Secretary) and Souzanne Ouzounian (English Secretary).

The permanent officers appointed Khatoune Pakradouni as parliamentarian, Azadouhi Pilibosian and Jeanine Boudakian as Sergeant-At-Arms, and Maro Kechichian as reporter. Following the approval of the convention agenda, delegates elected the Nominations Committee, which then suggested members for the Resolutions and Archives Committees.

The ARS 97th Regional Convention invited ARS members Mako Mgrdichian, Sonia Peltekian, Mayda Kelejian, Sona Bostanian, Loucine Melikian, Maro Papazian, Annie Chalian, and Zvig Guedikian as its guests.

The ARS Central Executive’s report was delivered by Maral Matossian and, on the same evening, delegates had the opportunity to raise questions of clarification regarding the Regional Executive’s, Social Services, Guidance Center, and financial biennial reports. All questions were addressed and provided with comprehensive responses.

Dr. Ida Karayan, Director of the ARS Child, Youth and Family Guidance Center, presented an informational video highlighting the Center’s work and activities.

During the morning of Saturday, July 13, reports were delivered by the Archives and Auditing Committees. Next, delegates provided an assessment of the 2017 – 2019 Regional Executive’s biennial activities, which they found to be highly commendable.

Delegates examined and adopted resolutions presented by the Regional Executive Board, chapters, and personal motions. These primarily pertained to the educational sphere, public relations, fundraising, and membership recruitment. Emphasis was also placed on expanding partnerships with local, sister, regional, and international organizations, which would also allow the opportunity to deliver outreach about the organization’s humanitarian services. Internationally, the convention found it imperative to continue the organization’s focus on programs benefiting Armenia, Artsakh, and Javakhk.

Changes to the regional bylaws were also presented, discussed, and adopted. Thereafter, resolutions were presented for the ARS 72nd International Convention, which will be held on October 6 to 11 in Montreal, Canada. The regional proposed budget was later presented and approved.

On Sunday, July 14, elections were held for the 2019 – 2021 Regional Executive Board. Eight of the nine existing Board members were re-elected to the body and one new member was elected to the Board to replace Ani Bostanian, who had completed her term of service. As such, the following members were elected to the new Board: Silva Poladian, Maral Touloumian, Anita Altounian, Armenouhi (Mimi) Tomassian, Arsho Avakian, Nancy Bederian, Nora Shirikian, Varduhi Petrosyan, and Araxy Aykanian.

Subsequently, elections were held for delegates, who would attend the upcoming ARS 72nd International Convention and represent the Armenian Relief Society of Western USA. The convention elected Maral Touloumian, Annie Kechichian, Lara Kazandjian, and Sossie Poladian.

The convention concluded with the election of an Auditing Committee, addressing unforeseen matters, and closing remarks by ARF Central Committee representative Garo Ispendjian, ARS Central Executive member Maral Matossian, Convention Chairpersons Annie Kechichian and Angela Savoyan, as well as guests and delegates.

Following the adjournment of the convention, the newly elected Regional Executive Board held its first plenary meeting with the presence of the convention’s officers and ARS Central Executive representative Maral Matossian.

During this meeting, the 2019 – 2021 Regional Executive Board elected its officers as follows:

Silva Poladian, Chairperson
Arsho Avakian, Vice-Chairperson
Maral Touloumian, Secretary
Anita Altounian, Treasurer
Armenouhi (Mimi) Tomassian, Advisor
Nancy Bederian, Advisor
Nora Shirikian, Advisor
Varduhi Petrosyan, Advisor
Araxy Aykanian, Advisor

YEREVAN—President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian joined the participants of the Sevan Startup Summit 2019 via skype yesterday evening. Sarkissian spoke to attendees, inquired about the process of the Summit, and answered audience questions, the President’s Office told Armenpress.

“This is a wonderful initiative, and I want to thank all those who started this. I believe this initiative will very successful. It’s especially important for Armenia, because, Armenia, as I see it in the future, should have a strong presence in the field of high and new technologies, and should be a startup country. Maybe, one day, we will have a chance to declare Armenia the capital of the world’s startup,” stated President Sarkissian. “Startup is one of the institutes that unites the youth which is not only valuable, but important, as well.”

While speaking about opportunities to further develop startups, and their conditions, Sarkissian highlighted the necessity of high-quality education. “In order to include Armenia in the list of the leading countries, several conditions are required—such as quality of education. High-quality education should be offered to everyone, from the center of Yerevan up to bordering villages. The main mission of each teacher is to find talents, and startups will help us in finding individuals with talent,” noted Sarkissian.

The next key factor, according to the President, is the presence of leading international companies in Armenia, which will create an environment for the development of startups. “We cannot properly create a startup without using new science and technological infrastructures. That’s why we are working with a number of major companies, such as IBM, Google, Leonardo, to ensure their presence in Armenia. If major international companies operate in Armenia, they will give a special developmental quality,” the President said.

The next important factor is the mutual connection with the world. “We are naturally connected with the world, as Armenians live everywhere. Many talented Armenians work in California, the Silicon Valley,” he noted. “Therefore, it’s important to create a hub between all, and not only between Armenians. The 21st century will belong to individuals who have the ambition and courage to take on a challenge and present new ideas.”

President Sarkissian emphasized that Armenia is a promising place for talented youth. “Young talents are always in search for a challenging environment, and that environment is the technological space of the 21st century. Thus, Armenia must provide this kind of space,” he said.

Sarkissian expressed readiness to assist the Summit. “I am with you. I am a member of your startup community, ready to help you create a new path to work with the new generation. You are young, everything is ahead of you, but the world is moving quite rapidly. Thus, you must also be swift.”

The Sevan Startup Summit is attended by 120 startup teams from Armenia and 45 countries, as well as over 1,000 entrepreneurs from different parts of the world. The summit aims at promoting innovative ideas, as well as establishing communication between the business representatives.

SYDNEY, Australia—Premier of Australia’s largest state of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian hosted the Republic of Artsakh delegation led by Foreign Minister Masis Mayilyan, reported the Armenian National Committee of Australia.

Minister Mayilyan met Premier Berejiklian, New South Wales Legislative Assembly Speaker Jonathan O’Dea and New South Wales Legislative Council President John Ajaka in Sydney, along with fellow members of his delegation, Member of Parliament Davit Ishkhanyan and Foreign Affairs official Artak Nersisyan. They were accompanied by Artsakh’s Representative in Australia and members of the ANC-AU.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the development of cooperation and strengthening the ties between Artsakh and New South Wales, considering the Parliament recognized the Republic of Artsakh in 2012. Mayilyan presented the priorities of Artsakh’s foreign policy and the challenges in this sphere, and Berejiklian briefed on her recent visit to Armenia and the meetings she had there.

Mayilyan noted that the people of Artsakh highly appreciate Berejiklian’s promotion of pan-Armenian issues, and invited her to visit Artsakh for what would be the third occasion.

Earlier, the delegation met with members of the New South Wales Parliamentary Friends of Armenia group, where questions were Foreign Minister Mayilyan extended his country’s deep appreciation that many in the room helped Australia’s largest state recognize the Republic of Artsakh, have spoken on issues of importance to Artsakh, and some had even visited Artsakh.

Among the attendees at this meeting were Members of Parliament Jonathan O’Dea (Chair), Walt Secord MLC (Vice-Chair), Hugh McDermott and Member of the Legislative Council Fred Nile—all of whom join Gladys Berejiklian as part of the newly formed Australian Friends of Artsakh.