Armenian Organization Updates

[Hovik]

ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK Monday, October 3, 2005

ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK Monday, October 3, 2005

ASSEMBLY CO-HOSTS EVENT CELEBRATING NAGORNO KARABAKH'S INDEPENDENCE On
September 28, the Office of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic, along with
the Armenian Embassy, Armenian Assembly and Armenian National Committee,
came together to mark the 14th anniversary of Nagorno Karabakh's
independence on Capitol Hill.

"Fourteen years have passed since the day when the people of Karabakh
said a firm NO to continued foreign oppression," said NKR Representative
to the U.S. Vardan Barseghian in his opening remarks.

"Fourteen years of ongoing struggle to survive and prosper against
overwhelming odds. Fourteen years of serious achievements. Fourteen
years of success. Many formally recognized countries would wish to be
able to say this about their recent history, but only a few can,"
Barseghian continued.

The event, held in cooperation with the Co-Chairs of the Congressional
Caucus on Armenian Issues, also included remarks by Armenian Ambassador
to the U.S. Tatoul Markarian and the following congressional leaders:
Reps. Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Barney Frank
(D-MA), Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), George Radanovich (R-CA) and Adam Schiff
(D-CA).

"The people of Nagorno Karabakh have the right to assert their
independence and freedom; they have that right and they should be
provided the opportunity to do so," said Congressman Hinchey. "I am
very proud to be with you to assert my unity with you and your
enterprise."

The evening's keynote speaker was Baroness Caroline Cox, Vice Speaker of
the British House of Lords. Baroness Cox, a well-known champion of
Karabakh's right to self-determination, spoke passionately about the
great strides Karabakh has made since the 1994 cease-fire accord.

"Surely there must be some recognition of the rights of a vulnerable
minority, threatened by a repressive state with attempted ethnic
cleansing or genocide, to have the right to claim their independence in
order to survive," said Baroness Cox. "...The time for recognition of
the rights of the people of Karabakh for self-determination is NOW."

Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, in his remarks, said the
people of Karabakh have overcome great obstacles and challenges in the
face of Azerbaijan's aggression and war against them. Ardouny added:
"Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying 'Freedom is the last, best hope of
earth.' To that I would add, look no further than Karabakh - it is a
place of hope and freedom.'"

NEWS & NOTES
* On September 26, Board of Directors Chairman Anthony Barsamian met
with Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Member Rep. Barney Frank
(D-MA) to encourage the lawmaker's continued support of Armenian issues.
Frank pledged to support the South Caucasus Integration and Open
Railroads Act, which prohibits U.S. funding to develop or promote any
rail connections that traverse or connect Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey
and that specifically exclude cities in Armenia. H.R. 3361 was
introduced in July by Congressmen Joe Knollenberg (R-MI), Frank Pallone,
Jr. (D-NJ) and George Radanovich (R-CA) and has 38 cosponsors to date.

* On September 22, Grassroots Director Nancy Hiteshue traveled to
Wisconsin for meetings with the staffs of Representatives Gwen Moore
(D-WI) and Paul Ryan (R-WI). Hiteshue thanked Ryan, a member of the
Armenian Caucus, for supporting the pan-Armenian Genocide resolution (H.
Res. 316) and urged him to also cosponsor the rail measure. She also
urged Moore to do the same and consider joining the Armenian Caucus.

ASSEMBLY ACCEPTING INTERN APPLICATIONS
The Assembly is now accepting applications for the 2006 Terjenian-Thomas
Assembly Internship Program in Washington, DC and the sister program in
Yerevan. College students of Armenian descent who have completed at
least two years of full-time study at an accredited college or
university are eligible for the eight-week internship program.
Applications are available on the Assembly's Web site or by contacting
Intern Program Manager Alex Karapetian in Washington at (202) 393-3434,
ext. 245 or by e-mail at [email protected].

ATTENTION FORMER ASSEMBLY INTERNS!
The Assembly wants to hear from you! Tell us what you've been up to
since interning at the Assembly. Write to us at [email protected] and
you just may end up in the next issue of The Advocate!

GET ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK ELECTRONICALLY!
Receive Assembly This Week in your inbox! In an effort to increase our
efficiency and better serve our members, readers can receive an
electronic version of this publication as an alternative to the printed
version. Those who are interested should send their email addresses to
Rita Mullane at [email protected].

Calendar of Events
10/19-11/1: Annual Mission to Armenia & NKR
10/22: International Banquet; Yerevan, Armenia
11/13: Capital Regional Holiday Reception; DC
3/26: Annual Board of Trustees Meeting; DC
3/26 - 3/28: 2006 National Conference & Banquet; DC

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[Hovik]

ARMENIA THIS WEEK September 27, 2005

ARMENIA THIS WEEK September 27, 2005


EXPERTS SEE STATUS QUO, POTENTIAL RISKS FOR KARABAKH, CAUCASUS The majority of
U.S. and Western European experts expect the status quo in the Karabakh
conflict and regionally to persist in the foreseeable future, according to the
Armenian Assembly of America (AAA)'s research and recent congressional
testimony by regional specialists. In spite of such expectations, a study by
the International Crisis Group (ICG), "Nagorno Karabakh: Viewing the Conflict
from the Ground," published earlier this month, urged a renewed push for a
peaceful settlement, including popular diplomacy, while warning that "resumed
war appears a real possibility."

A cease-fire agreement signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan and Nagorno Karabakh has
held for over 11 years, even in the absence of international peacekeepers and
serious progress in negotiations. But more recent, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev
repeatedly threatened to launch a new war, unless Armenians agree to unilateral
compromises. Most recently, capitalizing on growing oil production and price,
Aliyev promised to double the Azeri military spending to $600 million next
year. Armenian leaders have dismissed such threats and expressed commitment to
a peaceful settlement. While diplomatic contacts between the sides continue, no
breakthrough is currently anticipated.

The ICG report warned that with rising hate rhetoric and military spending,
"time for a peaceful settlement may be running out" and an inter-ethnic divide
"becomes virtually unbridgeable." ICG is due to release a follow-up report that
would include "specific recommendations on... issues that must be treated in a
peace agreement and on what needs to be done to further inter-communal
reconciliation."

But speaking at the U.S. House of Representatives' Armed Services Committee
hearings on threats in Eurasia last week, Brookings Foundation's Fiona Hill and
Carnegie Endowment's Martha Brill Olcott argued that the Caucasus' "frozen"
conflicts, including the one between Azerbaijan and Karabakh, are likely to
remain unresolved through 2010. In a separate survey conducted by the AAA last
summer, nearly two-thirds of 24 U.S. and European experts queried agreed with
this view. One-fifth of respondents, who saw some sort of resolution, predicted
either confirmation of Karabakh's independence or its formal unification with
Armenia.

In their congressional testimony, Hill and Olcott disagreed on risks posed by
these conflicts. Hill argued that "factors fostering instability in Eurasia...
outweigh those in favor of stability" and that "there is every chance" for at
least temporary escalation in areas of unresolved conflicts, as recently
happened between Georgians and Ossetians. Olcott sounded more optimistic,
suggesting that while potential risks exist, they should not be
"over-dramatized."

Olcott noted that while "there is always a danger that some future Azerbaijani
government will feel competent to take on Armenia militarily," such threat
remains an "abstract one" partly because "Armenia has maintained [its] level of
military preparedness." Similarly, none of the experts who took part in the AAA
survey believe that Azerbaijan could launch a successful military campaign in
the foreseeable future.

Most observers also agree that the Aliyev regime would retain power through the
parliamentary election this November, and would use force should the opposition
activists take to the streets to protest likely fraud as two years ago.
Speaking at the Washington, DC-based American Enterprise Institute this week,
an Azeri opposition leader Isa Gamber complained that the U.S. was not pushing
hard enough to democratize Azerbaijan. But the National Journal's Bruce Stokes
and other commentators at the same event countered that both the government and
the opposition were interested in power rather than democracy and trying to
"play" the West for support. Stokes predicted that in Azerbaijan "things would
get worse before they get better." (Sources: R&I Reports 8-22, 9-27; Arm. This
Week 8-30; ICG 9-14; House Committee on Armed Services 9-22)

TURKISH ARMENIAN CONFERENCE TAKES PLACE AMID EU PRESSURE, NATIONALIST PROTEST
Turkish academics were finally able to meet last week to discuss the massacres
and deportations of Ottoman Armenians, which has long been a taboo subject in
Turkey. The conference first planned for May of this year was cancelled after
Turkish Justice Minister and government spokesman Cemil Cicek called the event
organizers "traitors." Last week a Turkish court ruled to ban the event at its
original venue at Bogazici University, but academics, this time with government
support, skirted the ban and met at Bilgi University instead.

The Turkish government's turnaround on the issue of the conference appears
directly linked to its membership talks with the European Union (EU), planned
for next week. The EU warned that the talks could be undermined unless Turkey
respects freedom of expression and allows the conference to go ahead. Earlier
this year, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul admitted the country's failure
to stop the international campaign for Genocide affirmation, and the government
appears to be rethinking its ongoing Genocide denial.

Last week, several hundred nationalist protesters threw eggs and tomatoes at
conference participants, but Turkey's mainstream media supported the academics'
right to discuss the issue. (Sources: Armenia This Week 8-19; Reuters 9-24, 25)

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A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA
1140 19th Street, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 393-3434 FAX
(202) 638-4904
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In Istanbul, a Crack In the Wall of Denial
We're Trying to Debate the Armenian Issue
By Elif Shafak Sunday, September 25, 2005; B03 [Excerpts]

ISTANBUL - I am the daughter of a Turkish diplomat -- a rather unusual
character in the male-dominated foreign service in that she was a single
mother. Her first appointment was to Spain, and we moved to Madrid in the early
1980s. In those days, the Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia,
known as ASALA, was staging attacks on Turkish citizens -- and diplomats in
particular -- in Rome, London, Zurich, Brussels, Milan and Madrid; our cultural
attaché in Paris was assassinated in 1979 while walking on the Champs-Elysees.
So throughout my childhood, the word "Armenian" meant only one thing to me: a
terrorist who wanted to kill my mother.
Faced with hatred, I hated back. But that was as far as my feelings went. It
took me years to ask the simple question: Why did the Armenians hate us?

My ignorance was not unusual. For me in those days, and for most Turkish
citizens even today, my country's history began in 1923, with the founding of
the modern Turkish state. The roots of the Armenians' rage -- in the massacres,
atrocities and deportations that decimated Turkey's Armenian population in the
last years of Ottoman rule, particularly 1915 -- were simply not part of our
common historical memory.

But for me today, and for a growing number of my fellow Turks, that has
changed. That is why I am in Istanbul this weekend. I came to Bosphorus
University to attend the first-ever public conference in this country on what
happened to the Ottoman Armenians in and after 1915. As I write, we are
fighting last-minute legal maneuvers by hard-line opponents of open discussion
to shut the conference down. I don't know how it will turn out -- but the fact
that we are here, openly making the attempt, with at least verbal support from
the prime minister and many mainstream journalists, highlights how far some in
my country have come.

Until my early twenties, like many Turks living abroad, I was less interested
in history than in what we described as "improving Turkey's image in the eyes
of Westerners." As I began reading extensively on political and social history,
I was drawn to the stories of minorities, of the marginalized and the silenced:
women who resisted traditional gender roles, unorthodox Sufis persecuted for
their beliefs, homosexuals in the Ottoman Empire. Gradually, I started reading
about the Ottoman Armenians -- not because I was particularly interested in the
literature but because I was young and rebellious, and the official ideology of
Turkey told me not to.

Yet it was not until I came to the United States in 2002 and started getting
involved in an Armenian-Turkish intellectuals' network that I seriously felt
the need to face the charges that, beginning in 1915, Turks killed as many as
1.5 million Armenians and drove hundreds of thousands more from their homes. I
focused on the literature of genocide, particularly the testimony of survivors;
I watched filmed interviews at the Zoryan Institute's Armenian archives in
Toronto; I talked to Armenian grandmothers, participated in workshops for
reconciliation and collected stories from Armenian friends who were generous
enough to entrust me with their family memories and secrets. With each step, I
realized not only that atrocities had been committed in that terrible time but
that their effect had been made far worse by the systematic denial that
followed. I came to recognize a people's grief and to believe in the need to
mourn our past together.

I also got to know other Turks who were making a similar intellectual journey.
Obviously there is still a powerful segment of Turkish society that completely
rejects the charge that Armenians were purposely exterminated. Some even go so
far as to claim that it was Armenians who killed Turks, and so there is nothing
to apologize for. These nationalist hardliners include many of our government
officials, bureaucrats, diplomats and newspaper columnists. [...]

There is a third attitude, prevalent among Turkish youth: Whatever happened, it
was a long time ago, and we should concentrate on the future rather than the
past. "Why am I being held responsible for a crime my grandfather committed --
that is, if he ever did it?" they ask. They want to become friends with
Armenians and push for open trade and better relations with neighboring Armenia
. . . . as long as everybody forgets this inconvenient claim of genocide.

Finally, there is a fourth attitude: The past is not a bygone era that we can
discard but a legacy that needs to be recognized, explored and openly discussed
before Turkey can move forward. It is plain to me that, though it often goes
unnoticed in Western media, there is a thriving movement in Turkish civil
society toward this kind of reconciliation. The 50 historians, journalists,
political scientists and activists who have gathered here in the last few days
for the planned conference on Ottoman Armenians share a common belief in the
need to face the atrocities of the past, no matter how distressing or
dangerous, in order to create a better future for Turkey. But it hasn't been
easy, and the battle is far from over. [...]

Whatever happens with the conference, I believe one thing remains true: Through
the collective efforts of academics, journalists, writers and media
correspondents, 1915 is being opened to discussion in my homeland as never
before. The process is not an easy one and will disturb many vested interests.
I know how hard it is -- most children from diplomatic families, confronting
negative images of Turkey abroad, develop a sort of defensive nationalism, and
it's especially true among those of us who lived through the years of Armenian
terrorism. But I also know that the journey from denial to recognition is one
that can be made.

Author's e-mail: [email protected]

Elif Shafak is a novelist and a professor of Near Eastern Studies at the
University of Arizona. She commutes between Tucson and Istanbul.

For the entire article visit

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/23/AR2005092302365_pf.html

[Hovik]

Naasr Lecture On Ottoman Armenian Photographs In Getty Museum

PRESS RELEASE
National Association for Armenian Studies and Research
395 Concord Avenue
Belmont, MA 02478
Phone: 617-489-1610
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.naasr.org
Contact: Marc A. Mamigonian

NAASR LECTURE ON OTTOMAN ARMENIAN

PHOTOGRAPHS IN GETTY MUSEUM




Van Aroian of Worcester, MA, will give an illustrated lecture on
"Armenian Photographs in the Getty Museum," at the Center and
Headquarters of the National Association for Armenian Studies and
Research (NAASR), 395 Concord Ave., Belmont, MA, on Thursday evening,
October 13, at 8:00 p.m.

The Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California, houses the Getty Research
Library, which contains an impressive collection of Ottoman photographs.
This collection is an invaluable resource for Ottoman scholars,
ethnographers, historians of Ottoman photography, and students of
Armenian Ottoman life. Furthermore, this collection provides a valuable
resource for an investigator interested in developing the significant
contribution of Armenian photographers to the early development of
photography throughout the Ottoman Empire.


Sampling of an Important Collection


The program will provide a visual presentation and sampling of the
Ottoman photo collection at the Getty Research Institute, with a focus
on its Armenian flavor and contributions. On a fundamental level this
collection provides investigators with a rare opportunity actually to
see aspects of Ottoman life and culture - a presentation of a world in
transition captured for succeeding generations. These photos will
provide us the opportunity to walk down memory lane and share together
some social and historic commentary.

Van Aroian spent some six weeks in 1999-2001 looking through the Getty's
Ottoman photograph collection. He first presented the results of his
investigations into the Getty's collection in an article in NAASR's
Journal of Armenian Studies (vol. 7, no.1, Fall-Winter 2002-2003)
entitled "Ottoman Photographs at the J. Paul Getty Research Institute:
Armenian Themes and Contributions." There he offered an overview of the
collection and provided detailed analyses of several photographs of
direct or indirect relevance to the Armenians.

Aroian earned a BA at Boston University and MA in Middle Eastern Studies
at Harvard University. He was a fellow in Urban Geography at Clark
University and an Urban Planner and Deputy Director of the Worcester
Redevelopment Authority. He later joined his brother in-law, Kevork,
and wife Mary Balekdjian Aroian in importing and retailing Oriental
carpets. He is currently a member of the NAASR Board of Directors.

More information on Aroian's lecture or seminar or about
NAASR and its programs for the furtherance of Armenian studies,
research, and publication may be had by calling 617-489-1610, by fax at
617-484-1759, by e-mail at [email protected], or by writing to NAASR, 395
Concord Ave., Belmont, MA 02478.

[Hovik]

Catholicos Aram I Calls for U.S. Recognition of the Armenian Genocide

PRESS RELEASE
Western Prelacy
of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian
Prelate, Western United States
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
Email: [email protected]

For more information:
Zanku Armenian (818) 243-3557
Mercata Group


Catholicos Aram I Calls for U.S. Recognition of the Armenian Genocide

His Holiness Says Reconciliation Cannot Begin Until There is Confession
First


(Los Angeles, CA - October 11, 2005) - His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of
the Great House of Cilicia, made a firm statement calling for proper U.S.
recognition of the Armenian Genocide during a special prayer service in
honor of the victims of the Armenian Genocide held on October 8 at the
Armenian Genocide Monument in Montebello, California. The Catholicos stated
that the United States has always stood on the side of justice and human
rights and therefore should take a principled stand by properly recognizing
the Armenian Genocide.

The special ceremony was organized as a reaffirmation of the community's
commitment to proper genocide recognition on the occasion of the 90th
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. There were several hundred members of
the community in attendance as well as many local public officials including
State Assemblyman Ron Calderon, Montebello Mayor Bill Molinari, Pico Riviera
Mayor David Armenta, Montebello Police Chief Gary Couso-Vasquez and a
representative from Montebello Congresswoman Grace Napolitano's office.

"Reconciliation is based on forgiveness; however, there cannot be
forgiveness until there is acceptance of the truth and real confession,"
said the Pontiff during the event referring to the Turkish government's
continuing campaign of denial and the lack of official U.S. recognition of
the genocide. "While this monument stands in memory of the martyrs of the
Armenian Genocide, it also symbolizes the struggle against evil, the quest
for justice, peace and human rights." His Holiness also emphasized the
point that the United States should show greater leadership on this issue by
officially recognizing the genocide based on the fundamental principles of
freedom and human rights for which the country stands.

The Catholicos went on to say that the Genocide Monument in Montebello is a
living monument and should be viewed as the bell that tolls reminding the
Armenian community to continue the just struggle for the Armenian Cause and
remain loyal to the memories of the martyrs of the Armenian Genocide. The
Pontiff ended his remarks by telling the story of how on April 24 of this
year he journeyed to Der Zor to the Euphrates river where many Armenian
women and children had died during the genocide and he christened two
Armenian children and "the river that had symbolized death for the Armenian
people turned into a river of life," he said.

After the ceremony at the Armenian Genocide monument, His Holiness traveled
to the Holy Cross Church in Montebello to meet with Armenian youth from the
Montebello community.


Catholicos Meets with Armenian Students in Glendale

On the previous day, Friday, October 7th, His Holiness held a meeting at
Glendale High School with approximately 1,000 students from the 11 Los
Angeles area Armenian schools. His Holiness stressed that students should
carry on the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Armenian people. He
also emphasized the importance of living life with high moral values and
stated that the students should serve as role models in the community.
After the Pontiff's remarks, the program included poetry recitations, choir
ensembles and other instrumental performances by various students.


His Holiness Aram I Presides Over 1600 Anniversary of Armenian Alphabet
Celebration

On the evening of Friday, October 7th, His Holiness was present at the
Glendale Homenetmen "Ararat" Chapters special event celebrating the Armenian
alphabet. In addition to the hundreds of community members present, also
attending were Glendale Mayor Rafi Manoukian, Glendale City Councilman Frank
Quintero, Glendale Police Chief Randy Adams and Glendale School Board member
Greg Krikorian.

During the official remarks, His Holiness emphasized the importance of the
Armenian language in defining the Armenian culture and encouraged the youth
present to make the effort to learn the language as a means to living their
identity.

[Hovik]

ARMENIA THIS WEEK October 10, 2005


"FAST PROGRESS" SEEN IN ARMENIA-NATO TIES Armenian and Western officials
underscored continued progress in Armenia's partnership with the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) at a major conference held in
Yerevan last week. Sixty-six legislators and defense officials from 22
NATO and partner countries were in Armenia for the Rose-Roth seminar on
security issues organized by the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and
Armenia's legislature.

Speaking at the seminar, NATO's Caucasus liaison Romualds Razuks noted
the "fast progress" Armenia has made in the development of its
Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP) with the alliance. In his talk
at the event Defense Minister Serge Sargsian noted that Armenia views
IPAP as the main framework for the country's increased inter-operability
with NATO, particularly through joint deployments. Sargsian argued,
however, that existing threats do no allow Armenia to downsize its
military along NATO-recommended lines. At the same time, he pledged
continued defense reform, including greater military budget
transparency, parliamentary oversight and the role of civilian experts
in Armenia's defense planning.

Also last week, Greece's Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos was in
Armenia, pledging to further boost military cooperation between the two
countries. For nearly two years, Armenian peacekeepers have served with
a Greek detachment as part of the NATO-led stabilization force in
Kosovo. Along with the U.S., Greece is one of Armenia's most important
NATO partners.

Late last month, senior officials from the Pentagon visited Armenia for
the fourth annual bilateral defense consultations with Armenian
counterparts. Their talks focused on U.S. military assistance, Armenia's
defense reform and peacekeeping training. U.S.-Armenian security
cooperation is expected to be discussed by Sargsian and Defense
Secretary Donald Rumsfeld during the Armenian Minister's visit to
Washington later this month. Sargsian is also expected to visit the U.S.
Central Command headquarters in Florida as well as the state of Kansas,
whose National Guard is helping prepare the Armenian military personnel
that deploy in multi-national operations, such as those in Iraq and
Kosovo. (Sources: Mediamax 9-30, 10-7, 8; RFE/RL Armenia Report 10-5;
Regnum 10-7, 8)

ARMENIA HOPEFUL AS EU-TURKEY TALKS BEGIN Armenian officials held out
hope for a positive change in Turkey's policy towards Armenia, as that
nation is due to begin membership negotiations with the European Union
(EU) that are anticipated to last at least ten years. Foreign Ministry
spokesman Hamlet Gasparian said in a statement that Armenia expects that
"the EU accession process will prompt [Turkey] to open the border with
Armenia as soon as possible and to make real efforts to protect minority
rights and uphold freedom of speech and other democratic values and
standards in the country." Gasparian also expressed Armenia's hope that
"Turkey will recognize the Armenian Genocide, something which the
European Parliament deemed a precondition for Turkey's membership of the
EU in its latest resolution."

The EU's "Negotiations Framework" with Turkey has made good relations
with neighbors, respect for minority rights and freedom of speech
required elements for progress. Turkey's record on these issues has so
far been largely negative. Although last month, shortly before the EU
decision on talks, the Turkish government allowed a long-delayed
conference on the Ottoman Armenians to proceed in Istanbul, last week
saw another drawback on the issue as a leading Turkish Armenian
journalist Hrant Dink was sentenced for allegedly "insulting Turks" in a
newspaper article. Dink received a six-month suspended sentence and said
he is contemplating emigration.

Meanwhile, Armenia's own relations with the EU appear to be held hostage
by Azerbaijan. The EU's Caucasus envoy Heikke Talvitie confirmed last
week that the European Neighborhood Policy (ENP), recently launched by
the EU and the three Caucasus countries, has been suspended. The
reported reason for the suspension is Azerbaijan's ongoing effort to
expand relations with Turkish-occupied northern Cyprus. In response
Cyprus, an EU member, vetoed EU's ENP with Azerbaijan. And since the ENP
is intended to work concurrently with the three Caucasus countries, the
program was also suspended with Georgia and Armenia.

In a commentary, Armenia's Mediamax news agency recalled that the
similarly "balanced" approach by European states in the 1990s resulted
in repeated delays in Armenia's membership in the Council of Europe,
because of Azerbaijan's human rights record, particularly on the issue
of political prisoners. And while hurting Armenia's European
integration, such an approach has failed to appreciably improve the
situation in Azerbaijan. (Sources: Arm.This Week 9-26; Mediamax 10-1;
RFE/RL Arm. Report 10-4; R&I Report 10-5)



************************************************** ***************
A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA 1140
19th Street, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 393-3434 FAX
(202) 638-4904
E-Mail [email protected] WEB http://www.aaainc.org
************************************************** ***************

http://www.armenialiberty.org/armeniareport/report/en/2005/10/FE45855A-7

F54-439F-8035-44C68DBF320A.asp

Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty Armenian Service Tuesday, 4 October
2005

Karabakh Holds Another International Chess Tournament By Emil Danielyan

The unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR) is hosting another
international chess tournament which has brought together some of the
world's leading chess players and is touted by organizers as the first
event of its kind in the South Caucasus.

The ten-day tournament, sponsored by the Karabakh government and the
Chess Academy of Armenia, got underway at the weekend, with two dozen
players from 11 countries, including the United States, Russia and
China, vying for the top prizes in two separate competitions.

"This tournament is very significant for the chess world," one of the
organizers, Aram Hajian, told RFE/RL from Stepanakert on Tuesday.

"There has never been a tournament of this strength held anywhere in the
Caucasus," he said, pointing to the average rating of the participants.
"It's one of the top chess events happening this year anywhere in the
world."

The most prominent and highly rated of the contenders is Vassily
Ivanchuk, Ukraine's top grandmaster who has won European chess
championships in the past. Among other renowned participants are the
veteran Russian grandmaster Alexey Dreev, the reigning U.S. champion
Hikaru Nakamura and one of China's top players, Bu Xiangzhi.

Armenia is represented at the tournament by its highest rated player,
Levon Aronian, and four other grandmasters. All of them are members of
its national chess team, one of the best in the world. The small South
Caucasus nation boasts 19 grandmasters, the largest per-capita number of
top-class chess players in the world.

Not all of the participants of the Stepanakert tournament are men.
Kateryna Lahno, a 15-year-old Ukrainian and the current women's champion
of Europe, was deemed strong enough to compete with the male players.

It is the second international chess tournament held in the
Armenian-controlled territory in less than two years. The first such
event took place in Stepanakert in March 2004 and was dedicated to the
75th birth anniversary of the late Tigran Petrosian, the Armenian former
world champion who dominated the game in the 1960s. It was opened by
Boris Spassky, the Russian-born grandmaster who had defeated and
replaced Petrosian as world champion in 1969.

The "honorary guest" at the current tournament is another former chess
heavyweight, Lajos Portisch of Hungary.

The 2004 tournament drew protests from Azerbaijan which always denounces
the presence of foreign dignitaries in Karabakh as an affront to its
sovereignty over the disputed region. Reaction from Baku is expected to
be the same this time as well.

Hajian, who is a member of the Yerevan-based Chess Academy's governing
board, believes that the ongoing tournament is a "very positive
image-building event" for the Karabakh Armenians. "Karabakh has become
well known to the world as the location for a war for self-determination
for the Armenians living here," he said. "Although the fighting ended
eleven years ago, I think that many people have not grasped the fact
that life here has gone on and that there is a whole generation of young
people and a society in general which is moving on."

[AAA Note: To follow the tournament on-line visit
http://www.karabakh2005.com .]

[Hovik]

ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK Monday, October 10, 2005


REP. BEAUPREZ JOINS THE ARMENIAN CAUCUS
At the urging of the Armenian Assembly, Congressman Bob Beauprez (R-CO)
last week joined the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, bringing
the total Caucus membership to 147.

The Assembly's Western Office, joined by members of Armenians of
Colorado, met with the Congressman's district staff in August to
articulate the community's concerns and encourage the lawmaker's
membership to the Caucus.

"We're pleased Congressman Beauprez decided to join the Caucus as a
result of direct meetings with the Assembly and Armenians of Colorado,"
said Western Office Director Lena Kaimian. Kaimian also noted that the
Congressman is the first lawmaker from the state to join this
all-important body and hopes that others from the state will follow
suit.

Congressman Beauprez is currently serving his second term in office and
is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. Earlier this year,
he signed on to a congressional letter to President Bush urging him to
formally recognize the Armenian Genocide.

CHARITY GROUP GIVES AAA FOUR-STAR RATING Charity Navigator, an
independent non-profit which rates the financial efficiency of America's
largest charities, last week gave the Assembly its highest rating: four
stars.

The results, based on 990 tax forms the Assembly filed with the Internal
Revenue Service, mean the organization "exceeds industry standards and
outperforms most charities in its cause."

"The Assembly welcomes this performance rating and is pleased to share
it with our members," said Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. "By
donating to the Assembly, our members can be confident they are
supporting an organization that is fiscally responsible."

NEWS & NOTES
* Board of Directors Chairman Anthony Barsamian was the featured speaker
at Project SAVE's 30th anniversary banquet on October 1 in Newton, MA.
The event, hosted by Boston Globe investigative reporter Steve Kirkjian,
celebrated the organizations efforts to collect, document, preserve and
present the historic and modern photographic record of Armenians and
Armenian heritage.

ASSEMBLY ACCEPTING INTERN APPLICATIONS
The Assembly is accepting applications for the 2006 Terjenian-Thomas
Assembly Internship Program in Washington, DC and the sister program in
Yerevan. College students of Armenian descent who have completed at
least two years of full-time study at an accredited college or
university are eligible for the eight-week internship program.

Washington intern alumni Nare Avagyan said, "Looking back on this
summer, I see that I have taken away much more than strong friendships
and lasting memories. I have gained a new understanding of myself and
of my place in the world. If given the chance to repeat this
experience, I would undoubtedly do so."

Applications are available on the Assembly's Web site or by contacting
Intern Program Manager Alex Karapetian in Washington at (202) 393-3434,
ext. 245 or by e-mail at [email protected].

ATTENTION FORMER ASSEMBLY INTERNS!
The Assembly wants to hear from you! Tell us what you've been up to
since interning at the Assembly. Write to us at [email protected] and
you just may end up in the next issue of The Advocate!

GET ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK ELECTRONICALLY!
Receive Assembly This Week in your inbox! In an effort to increase our
efficiency and better serve our members, readers can receive an
electronic version of this publication as an alternative to the printed
version. Those who are interested should send their email addresses to
Rita Mullane at [email protected].

Calendar of Events

10/19-11/1: Annual Mission to Armenia & NKR
10/22: International Banquet; Yerevan, Armenia
11/13: Capital Regional Holiday Reception; DC
3/26: Annual Board of Trustees Meeting; DC
3/26 - 3/28: National Conference & Banquet; DC


************************************************** ***************
A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA 1140
19th Street, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 393-3434 FAX
(202) 638-4904
E-Mail: [email protected] WEB http://www.armenianassembly.org
************************************************** ***************

Please share this newsletter with a friend - invite them to join you as
an Assembly member

You can be part of the Armenian Assembly's growing network of
individuals that are committed to maintaining Armenian's emerging
democracy and promoting Armenian issues locally and nationally. You can
leverage your gift to help Armenia by joining the Armenian Assembly
today! To get involved, just fill out the pledge form below and return
it with your check to the Assembly. The Assembly needs you! Armenia
needs you!

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES & BENEFITS

AFFILIATE BENEFITS:
* invitation to annual Board of Trustees meeting
* invitation to Regional events
* invitation to participate in annual mission to Armenia
* opportunity to vote on nominees to the Board of Directors
* recognition at all Assembly functions
* invitation to participate in Regional Council activities,
trainings and committees such as Development, Governmental Affairs,
Internships and Research & Analysis
* membership in ARAMAC -- the Assembly's grassroots network
* copy of Assembly's annual report

TRUSTEE BENEFITS:
All the benefits listed above, and
* opportunity to vote on policy decisions at annual meeting
* invitation to regional Trustee-only events
* invitation to special events during annual Gala Weekend
* subscription to weekly news publications - "Assembly This Week"
& "Armenia This Week"

To join the Armenian Assembly, fill in the form below, detach and return
it to: Armenian Assembly of America 1140 19th Street, NW, #600
Washington, DC 20036

ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA * ENROLLMENT FORM

I am pleased to pledge annual support in the amount of
$__________________________________

___Affiliate $100 -- $249
___Fellow Trustee $1,000 -- $4,999
___Supporting Affiliate $250 -- $499 ___Associate
Trustee $5,000 -- $19,999
___Contributing Affiliate $500 -- $999 ___Trustee
$20,000 -- $199,999

___Life Trustee $200,000 (one-time payment)

I am unable to make an annual pledge, but wish to make a contribution of
$___________________

Name (please print) Spouse


Street


City State Zip


Phone (home) (work) (fax)
(e-mail)

Your annual tax-deductible gift as noted above will provide for
continuation and expansion of national and regional initiatives. Please
make checks payable to Armenian Assembly of America, 1140 19th St., NW,
#600, Washington, DC 20036.
The Armenian Assembly is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

[Hovik]

Video Of System Of A Down Armenian Genocide Rally Circulating Online

Armenian National Committee of America
888 17th Street, NW, Suite 904, Washington, DC 20006
Tel. (202) 775-1918 * Fax. (202) 775-5648 * [email protected]

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release ~ 2005-10-07
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian ~ Tel: (202) 775-1918


VIDEO OF SYSTEM OF A DOWN ARMENIAN GENOCIDE RALLY CIRCULATING ONLINE


Two-Minute Film of the September 27th Rally Outside the Batavia, Illinois Office of Speaker of the House of Representatives Dennis Hastert at www.theforgotten.org/soad


Serj Tankian to be interviewed on Friday, October 7th on Air America Radio 10:00pm-1:00am (EST) on U.S. Recognition of the Armenian Genocide


WASHINGTON, DC - Hundreds of thousands around the world learned about the Armenian Genocide today - many for the first time - as a two-minute on-line video of System of a Down's recent rally in support of the Armenian Genocide Resolution began circulating across the internet, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

The video features compelling footage of the multi-platinum band's September 27th visit - along with hundreds of their fans - to the Batavia, Illinois office of Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert (R-IL). At the rally, which was organized by System of a Down, the ANCA, the Armenian Youth Federation and Axis of Justice, band members Serj Tankian and John Dolmayan delivered a letter asking the Speaker to honor his pledge to hold a vote on legislation recognizing the Armenian Genocide.

In the wake of the overwhelming approval of this legislation by the House International Relations Committee on September 15th, the decision to allow this measure to move forward now rests in the Speaker's hands. He can either schedule a vote on the House floor or, by delaying its consideration, effectively prevent its passage. If adopted, the legislation would officially recognize Turkey's systematic and deliberate destruction of 1.5 million Armenians between 1915 and 1923.

To watch the video, go to:

https://www.theforgotten.org/soad

Serj Tankian on Air America Radio

"The Mike Malloy Show" on Air America will broadcast an interview with Serj Tankian on Friday, October 7th regarding U.S. recognition of the Armenian Genocide. The show, featuring guest-hosts Anthony Lappe and Paul Rieckhoff, will air 10:00 pm to 1:00 am (Eastern U.S.)

For a listing of local stations, go to:

http://www.airamericaradio.com/stations

To ask the Speaker to support the Armenian Genocide Resolution:

https://www.capwiz.com/anca/mail/oneclick_compose/?alertid=8041966

[Hovik]

GIBRAHAYER e-magazine

GIBRAHAYER
e-magazine


[email protected]

http://gibrahayer.cyprusnewsletter.com

The largest circulation Armenian
online e-magazine on the WWW

DR. VAHAKN ATAMYAN ELECTED BY 52%
(Gibrahayer - Nicosia 11, October) 48 year old Dr.Vahakn Atamyan is the new representative of the Armenian community in the Cyprus House of Representatives. He will serve for eight months. He won 52% of the vote in last Sunday's by-election, that was held after the death of Bedros Kalaydjian, who passed away last month.
His candidacy was supported by the Shahoumian Communist faction, the Henchagian Social Democrats, Ramgavar Liberal Party, the AGBU and Melkonian Alumni.
The Armenian community of Cyprus gave Parsegh Zartarian's independent candidacy
4% of the vote while Dashnaktsoutiun's candidate - Chairman of the Armenian National Committee of Cyprus - 33 year old Dr.Antranik Ashdjian gained 44% of the electorate. (detailed results on www.hayem.org).
The results were extremely similar to the 2001 vote. Issues like the closure of Melkonian, the regression of our community's Armenian character and the primitive methods of conducting day-to-day community affairs, the lack of transparency and checks and balances, made minimal impact on a community that has been heading downwards, towards a doubtful future littered with scandals, mismanagement and lack of imagination.
GIBRAHAYER e-magazineTATIANA'S CORNER
This corner is reserved for local artist Tatiana Ferahian's comic strips which are amalgamations of Armenian-Cypriot social commentaries, painted with her usual wry and ironic humour, to stimulate and encourage awareness and interest toward our community's everyday happenings.
GIBRAHAYER e-magazineThis is an extraordinary article Prof. Pilikian has written for us, tackling the ultimate question ? the future of mankind. It may even become the ultimate word on the subject ? a blue-print for global action. His massive knowledge grounded in impeccable scholarship enables him to weave and braid together many strands from many fields of the social sciences, replete with the past and the present, the national and the international, the local and the global, prophetic and very practical. It is only fair to warn our readers that they should prepare themselves to encounter herein ideas found nowhere else ? Simon Aynedjian

to read it click here: http://gibrahayer.cyprusnewsletter.com/index.htm?p=4



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Professor Hovhanness I. Pilikian is an internationally acclaimed film producer, theater director, a classical music composer, a classical scholar and social scientist, fluent in many modern languages, including French, German, Arabic, Armenian and Chinese.

ARTSAGANG OCTOBER ISSUE - You can read the Armenian community's 20- page monthly Armenian publication in front of your computer - before it is delivered to you by post - in pdf format at: www.til-design.com/artsagang_oct/2005-10.pdf

NEWS IN BRIEF
?The situation in Akhalkalak is very tense. Tax officers from Akhaltsakha closed 10 stores demanding acquirement documents for the goods they traded. Shop-keepers told them that they bring goods from Tbilisi and get no document there. A few hundred residents of Akhalkalak gathered before the town administration protesting about the activities of the tax officers.
?A 43-year-old Van Nuys man - Melkon Gharakhanian - was arrested on eight felony counts of federal mail fraud in connection with an alleged investment scam that bilked about $20 million from mostly Armenian-Americans, many of whom were from Glendale.
?French President Jacques Chirac said that Turkey would need to undergo a ``major cultural revolution'' before entering the European Union, and he reiterated that France would hold a referendum on admitting Ankara to the bloc.
?The French Insurance Company Axa agreed to pay $17 million to descendants of life insurance policyholders who perished during the Armenian Genocide.
?The decision of who will be given the Nobel Prize for Literature has been delayed due to a split among the judges. The announcement is now scheduled this Thursday. The split occurred over honoring Turkish writer Orhan Pamuk author of several books including "My Name is Red" and "Snow". Pamuk faces trial later this year for having said that Turkey was GUILTY of the Armenian Genocide.
?Dubai International Properties, a leading property developer based in the U.A.E., has agreed to invest $5 billion in projects in Istanbul. The deal between the company and the Istanbul municipality was signed late Thursday at a ceremony presided over by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan - a former Istanbul mayor - and Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashed al-Maktoum.
?A journalist in Turkey has been found guilty of insulting Turkish identity and given a suspended six-month jail sentence by a court in Istanbul. Hrant Dink, of Armenian-Turkish descent, wrote a newspaper column which he argued was aimed at improving relations between Turkey and Armenia. The prosecution interpreted one part as an insult, but Mr Dink has said he will appeal against the ruling. The verdict follows criminal code reforms as Turkey seeks to join the EU. The article written by Mr Dink addressed the killings of hundreds of thousands of Armenians during Ottoman rule.

... from the diary section of www.savemelkonian.org

Barbarians at the gates?

Workmen called in by Mr Anderson were seen at the gates of the Melkonian a few days ago measuring the historic gates at the entrance to the school.
We wonder if he is preparing to refurbish them or remove them?

Does anybody know?

Cyprus Election
The Armenian community has elected as its representative to the House of Representatives Dr V Atamyan.
He told the Cyprus Mail yesterday that he plans to visit the Armenian Patriarch in Lebanon and to begin negotiations for the reopening of the Melkonian, the only Armenian secondary school in Cyprus, which was closed down for financial reasons.
Opponents of Atamyan, who had been on the school board, said he had not done enough to help save the school. We wish him well, especially in his wish to keep the school open.


ZARUHI HARUTYUNYAN PREPARING FOR
WORLD TENNIS TOUR FROM CYPRUS

http://gibrahayer.cyprusnewsletter.com/index.htm?p=5

YOUR EMAILS
Gibrahayer,
Very interesting to reed Mr Pilikian article...I assure you, many of the artists do not dare opposing the official art writers in the press ,for the fear of being funny or old fashion-in this process becoming conformists ... more at: https://www.gibrahayer.cyprusnewslet.../index.htm?p=2

A CRACK IN THE WALL OF DENIAL
Elif Shafak
I am the daughter of a Turkish diplomat -- a rather unusual character in the male-dominated foreign service in that she was a single mother. Her first appointment was to Spain, and we moved to Madrid in the early 1980s. In those days, the Armenian Secret Army for the Liberation of Armenia, known as ASALA, was staging attacks on Turkish citizens - and diplomats in particular - in Rome, London, Zurich, Brussels, Milan and Madrid; our cultural attache in Paris was assassinated in 1979 while walking on the Champs-Elysees. So throughout my childhood, the word "Armenian" meant only one thing to me: a terrorist who wanted to kill my mother.
more at: https://www.gibrahayer.cyprusnewslet.../index.htm?p=3

CLASSIFIED ADS:
?A male student from Armenia, wants to share an apartment with a roommate in Nicosia until August 2006. Cell phone in Cyprus: 96589810 [email protected]
?Young professionals teaching "O" and "A" Level Maths and Physics. Contact [email protected] and 99109034.
ARMENIAN MUSIC By Arek Dakessian in Beirut
This section is dedicated to bringing Armenian music closer to us, shedding light on the Armenian music scene and its history.
THE ARMENIANS OF LEBANON: PAST AND PRESENT
The Department of Armenian Studies of Haigazian University had organized a conference, from the 12th to the 15th of September, about the Armenians of Lebanon. During this three day conference there was a lecture about Armenian Music, entitled "Armenian Choirs in Lebanon 1930-1980" by Roubina Artinian.
Anyone interested in the lecture can send me an email and I will immediately forward the lecture about six Armenian conductors of Lebanon.
[email protected]
gibrahay calendar
?Cartoonist Massis Araradian in Cyprus. His best collection of Armenian and International political satire will be exhibited at The Utudjian Hall of the Armenian Prelature on Friday October 14, 2005 at 8:00 pm. Organised by The Hamazkayin Oshagan Cyprus Chapter. Dinner at AYMA will follow by reservation only with Alice Nadjarian on 99689948.
?Badanegan meetings - for children from 7- 12 years old - have begun. They take place every Saturday at 4:00 pm at AYMA.
?AYMA/HMEM Chicco football practices take place every Friday at 7:30pm at AYMA
?Eric Simonian invites you to Orpheas Piano Bar. Every Friday: Spanish Duo Band Flamengo and Salsa. Starting from October 7, 2005, Italian Chef Sergio at your service. Every Saturday Blues Night with guitarist George. Marie Louise Kouyoumdjian will soon be performing at Orpheas Piano Bar together with Eric Simonian. Details to follow.
?Badanegan meetings - for children from 7- 12 years old - have begun. They take place every Saturday at 4:00 pm at AYMA.
AYMA/HMEM Chicco football practices take place every Friday at 7:30pm at AYMA
?Armenian Radio Hour on The Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation via real audio on www.cybc.com.cy . Broadcast 17:00-18:00 local Cyprus time (14:00-15:00 GMT). Armenian news every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday.
?New Year's Eve Dinner and Dance in London www.haroutinlondon.com Harout Pampoukdjian and his Band will be performing in London at the Royal Lancaster at Hyde Park - London on Saturday 31 December 2005. Organised by HOM (Armenian Relief Society), Hamazkayin and HMEM.
?The Honourary Consul of Brasil, Mr. Garo Keheyian, invites you to a series of Brasilian cultural events in Nicosia, throughout the month of October. For more information, visit www.thepharostrust.org

Dear Subscriber, thank you for your interest in Gibrahayer, which is an independent electronic environment, now in its sixth year, disseminating news & posting upcoming events about the Armenian community of Cyprus, Armenia, Artsakh and the Diaspora. The list also promotes the discussion of issues brought forward by its members. The subscription to this service is free. To subscribe to Gibrahayer e-newsletter, follow the instructions at http://gibrahayer.cyprusnewsletter.com. To contact the listmaster send an email to [email protected]

[Hovik]

ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK Monday, October 17, 2005

ASSEMBLY THIS WEEK Monday, October 17, 2005


10TH ANNUAL MISSION HEADS TO ARMENIA, NK
The Assembly is leading its 10th annual Mission to Armenia and Karabakh
this week, giving a group of enthusiastic Trustee members the
opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and realities of life in
their ancestral home.

The excursion unofficially starts with a welcoming reception for Mission
participants on October 18 at the Armenia Embassy in London, England.
The entire group will arrive in Yerevan the following day.

While there, participants will visit several historical sites in and
around the capital including the Genocide Museum and Memorial at
Tsitsernakabert, Khor Virab, Lake Sevan and Vernisage. During an
optional two-day trip to Karabakh, group members will also visit
Stepanakert and Shushi.

Among the highlights of the trip is a series of high-level briefings by
U.S. and Armenia government officials, where participants can learn more
about the social, political and economic situation in Armenia. On
October 22, the Assembly will honor the enduring ties between the U.S.
and Armenia with a special banquet at the Armenia Marriott Hotel.

Board of Directors Chairman Anthony Barsamian, along with several
Members of the Board and Executive Director Bryan Ardouny, will also be
in Yerevan this week. Assembly leaders plan to meet with government
officials there and take part in several Mission activities.

NEWS & NOTES
* In an interview with BBC World Services last week, Board of Directors
Chairman Anthony Barsamian discussed the $17 million settlement French
insurance company Axa agreed to pay descendants of the victims of
genocide-era policy holders. Barsamian said the ruling is significant
and that Turkey must first acknowledge the past and then engage in
direct dialogue with Armenia.

* On Oct. 14 in Washington, Executive Director Bryan Ardouny met with
Armenia's Energy Minister Armen Movsisyan and Armenia's Ambassador to
the U.S. Tatoul Markarian to discuss Armenia's energy sector and areas
of cooperation with the U.S.

* Also on October 14, Assembly Intern Program Manager Alex Karapetian
began a road tour of colleges and universities to encourage students of
Armenian descent to apply to the Assembly's summer internship programs.
Karapetian visited several East Coast schools including Lafayette
College, Lehigh University, Moravian College, Rider University, Rutgers
University, Seton Hall University and William Patterson College while
Western Office Director Lena Kaimian met with students at UC San Diego
and Cal Poly Pomona. Western Office Deputy Director Nicole Shahenian
also met with students at the University of Southern California last
week.

EXPERIENCE DC, YEREVAN THROUGH ASSEMBLY INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS The Assembly
is accepting applications for the 2006 Terjenian-Thomas Assembly
Internship Program in Washington, DC and our sister program in Yerevan.
College students of Armenian descent who have completed at least two
years of full-time study at an accredited college or university are
eligible for the eight-week internship program.

Students accepted into the DC program are typically placed in
congressional offices, government agencies, think tanks and media
outlets based on their educational backgrounds and work experience.
Yerevan program students are typically placed in government ministries
based on the same criteria.

Applications are available on the Assembly's Web site or by contacting
Intern Program Manager Alex Karapetian in Washington at (202) 393-3434,
ext. 245 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Assembly Mourns Passing of California Members The Assembly regrets to
report the recent passing of longtime Associate Trustee George Mason of
Los Angeles and Fellow Trustee John Ketchoyan of Sherman Oaks. Our
deepest condolences and sympathies are with the families.

Calendar of Events
10/19-11/1: Annual Mission to Armenia & NKR

10/22: International Banquet; Yerevan, Armenia

11/13: Capital Regional Holiday Reception; DC

12/7: New England Holiday Party; Pawtucket, RI

12/11: Los Angeles "Holiday Cheer" Party; Pasadena

3/26: Annual Board of Trustees Meeting; DC

3/26 - 3/28: National Conference & Banquet; DC

************************************************** ***************
A WEEKLY NEWSLETTER PUBLISHED BY THE ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA 1140
19th Street, N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20036 (202) 393-3434 FAX
(202) 638-4904
E-Mail: [email protected] WEB http://www.armenianassembly.org
************************************************** ***************

Please share this newsletter with a friend - invite them to join you as
an Assembly member

You can be part of the Armenian Assembly's growing network of
individuals that are committed to maintaining Armenian's emerging
democracy and promoting Armenian issues locally and nationally. You can
leverage your gift to help Armenia by joining the Armenian Assembly
today! To get involved, just fill out the pledge form below and return
it with your check to the Assembly. The Assembly needs you! Armenia
needs you!

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES & BENEFITS

AFFILIATE BENEFITS:
* invitation to annual Board of Trustees meeting
* invitation to Regional events
* invitation to participate in annual mission to Armenia
* opportunity to vote on nominees to the Board of Directors
* recognition at all Assembly functions
* invitation to participate in Regional Council activities,
trainings and committees such as Development, Governmental Affairs,
Internships and Research & Analysis
* membership in ARAMAC -- the Assembly's grassroots network
* copy of Assembly's annual report

TRUSTEE BENEFITS:
All the benefits listed above, and
* opportunity to vote on policy decisions at annual meeting
* invitation to regional Trustee-only events
* invitation to special events during annual Gala Weekend
* subscription to weekly news publications - "Assembly This Week"
& "Armenia This Week"

To join the Armenian Assembly, fill in the form below, detach and return
it to: Armenian Assembly of America 1140 19th Street, NW, #600
Washington, DC 20036

ARMENIAN ASSEMBLY OF AMERICA * ENROLLMENT FORM

I am pleased to pledge annual support in the amount of
$__________________________________

___Affiliate $100 -- $249
___Fellow Trustee $1,000 -- $4,999
___Supporting Affiliate $250 -- $499 ___Associate
Trustee $5,000 -- $19,999
___Contributing Affiliate $500 -- $999 ___Trustee
$20,000 -- $199,999

___Life Trustee $200,000 (one-time payment)

I am unable to make an annual pledge, but wish to make a contribution of
$___________________

Name (please print) Spouse

Street

City State Zip

Phone (home) (work) (fax)
(e-mail)

Your annual tax-deductible gift as noted above will provide for
continuation and expansion of national and regional initiatives. Please
make checks payable to Armenian Assembly of America, 1140 19th St., NW,
#600, Washington, DC 20036.

The Armenian Assembly is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

[Gavur]

Aram I is second Apostolic Church pope to visit Pasadena this year

By Marshall Allen, Staff Writer

PASADENA -- The city's Armenian Christian community celebrated its second pontifical visit in the past four months Sunday, as a pope from the historic church consecrated a new church building in Pasadena.

While the world's billion Catholics follow one pope, the Armenian Apostolic Church has two pontiffs. With equal authority, the popes lead two arms of the same church, sharing history and doctrine.

In June, His Holiness Karekin II, who is based in Armenia, visited St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena. On Sunday, His Holiness Aram I, who is based in Lebanon, led a ceremony at Pasadena's Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church.

Both popes visited the Los Angeles area this year to celebrate the 1,700-year anniversary of the church in Armenia, and the 1,600-year anniversary of the creation of the Armenian alphabet.

The two Armenian Catholicos date back to 1441 and are a testimony to the suffering experienced by Armenians. For centuries, Armenia has been overrun by enemies, and its people scattered to neighboring regions. The years of conflict and domination resulted in the reorganization of the church to ensure its survival, Armenian Christian leaders said.

The two branches of the Armenian Apostolic Church -- called the Diocese of the Armenian Church and the Prelacy of the Armenian Church -- now enjoy friendly relations. But their relationship was strained during much of the 20th century, when the Diocese in Armenia came under the control of the Soviet Union, said Raffi Hamparian, a board member of the Armenian National Committee of America.

During the Cold War, there was the impression that the church in Armenia, because of Soviet oppression, was not free to operate independently, said Hamparian, 37, who attends St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church.

"For an Armenian-American born and bred on apple pie and the

First Amendment that doesn't cut the right way," he said.

With the fall of the Soviet Union and the establishment of an independent Armenia in 1991, the relationship between the two branches has strengthened, Hamparian said.

Now, Armenians often go back and forth between the two branches of the church, said Bo Patatian, a member of St. Sarkis who helped organize the visit of Aram I.

"The church isn't divided, it's diversified," Patatian said. "Most people only have one pope. We're blessed that God has provided us with two popes."

In the past month, St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church has been transformed in preparation of the pope's visit. The church spent about $1.5 million on the purchase and renovation of the building, a former hall owned by the Boys and Girls Club, said the Rev. Khoren Babouchian, pastor of the church.

The church owned the building at 58 S. Sierra Madre Blvd. for about a year before completely changing its interior. It used to be dark inside, with musty carpets, church members said. But now sunlight pours into the room through broad, arched windows, on to a hardwood floor.

The renovations were performed almost completely by the Armenian community and much of the work was donated, church leaders said. The new building, combined with the visit of Aram I, has brought pride to the community, Babouchian said.