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OUR NEXT ISSUE: In observance of Memorial Day and Armenian Independence Day,
Asbarez offices will be closed on Monday, May 29; our next issue will be
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on Tuesday, May 30.
ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
05/26/2006
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1) First ANCA Telethon Raises $2.7 Million Communities Across the U.S.
Unite to
Support ANCA's Mission
2) Armenian Independence Day Festival in Little Armenia Sets Stage for Dynamic
Celebration
3) Montenegro Referendum Sets Important Precedent for Karabagh
4) American Police Hand over Suspect to Armenian Counterparts
5) TAKE ACTION: Urge Judiciary Committee to Remove Hostile Amendment to
Genocide Legislation
6) ARS Luncheon to Be Held at Ararat Home
7) 'The Armenian Adam Smith:' UCLA Holds Conference in Honor of Armenian
Economist
8) You're Talking Nonsense, Mr. Ambassador: By Robert Fisk
9) Which One Is It: Alzheimer's, Depression, or Normal Aging Memory Decline?:
By Dr. Haygoush Kalinian
10) Critics' Forum: Literature: By Hovig Tchalian
11) EIs: On the March Again: By Garen Yegparian
12) JUNE 6 ELECTION: CHOOSE, BUT CHOOSE WISELY!: By SKEPTIK SINIKIAN
1) First ANCA Telethon Raises $2.7 Million Communities Across the U.S.
Unite to
Support ANCA's Mission
WASHINGTON, DC--In an overwhelming display of unity behind the Armenian
National Committee of America's mission to educate, motivate, and activate our
communities, Armenian Americans, organizations, and communities across the
United States raised $2.7 million during the ANCA Telethon on May 21 with
additional donations still coming in. The groundswell of donations came from
the entire spectrum of the Armenian community demonstrating the widespread
support for the ANCA's accomplishments and the desire to see its work expand
further.
"The Telethon was one of the ANCA's most ambitious endeavors to date, pulling
together every part of our grassroots network, and the results demonstrate the
overwhelming support for our mission to unite the community behind the
Armenian
Cause--Hai Tahd," said Ken Hachikian, National Chairman of the ANCA.
"We are gratified by the confidence Armenian Americans across the nation have
placed in us and pledge to the Armenian community that we will make every
dollar count as we work to vigorously pursue and represent the interests of
the
community in the local, national and international political and policy
arenas," said Hachikian.
The Telethon touched a common emotional desire in people to support the
Armenian Cause in all the different parts of our communities, regardless of
organizational affiliations or politics. Countless organizations, volunteers,
churches, community leaders, ANC local chapters, performing artists,
Members of
Congress, and state legislators from across the nation participated in the
Telethon contributing to its enormous success.
The Telethon also featured several documentaries that highlighted the various
ANCA programs and results the ANCA has achieved over the years largely through
its volunteer and grassroots network.
In addition to hundreds of thousands of viewers who watched the Telethon
on TV
in all major US media markets, thousands--nationally and internationally--also
watched the Telethon via a simultaneous webcast over the Internet and donated
online.
While the Telethon raised funds for the ANCA Endowment, it also served to
expand the level of knowledge and understanding within the community about the
important work that is being done on a daily basis by the ANCA. One of the
ANCA's goals is to engage and activate more segments as part of the ANCA's
grassroots network and the Telethon helped expand that reach.
Donations are still being accepted for the ANCA Telethon and those interested
in contributing should call 1-866-402-2622 (ANCA) or go to
<http://www.anca.org/>www.anca.org and click on the Telethon logo to make a
donation online.
2) Armenian Independence Day Festival in Little Armenia Sets Stage for Dynamic
Celebration
--Los Angeles Mayor Villaraigosa, diverse entertainment, and vendors all a
part
of unprecedented 'block party'
HOLLYWOOD--The Armenian Cultural Foundation has joined forces with the
Armenian Youth Federation - Western Region (AYF-WR), in coordination with Los
Angeles Council President Eric Garcetti, to present a dynamic festival in the
heart of Little Armenia on Sunday, May 28, 2006.
Though the festival is an annual event for the AYF-WR in celebrating
Armenia's
first independence, this year's celebration is unprecedented because portions
of Hollywood Boulevard (between Vermont and Alexandria) will be blocked-off
just for the event. The festival is the result of extensive teamwork between
Council President Garcetti's office, the ACF, and AYF, and will include
special
visits by representatives of the Armenian Consulate in LA, and Los Angeles
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
A variety of vendors, diverse entertainers, performers, writers, and
organizations will be on hand from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, highlighting Armenian
culture and raising awareness about Armenian history. Traditional Armenian
food
and artifacts will also be a part of the festivities, all in the tradition of
celebrating Armenia's cultural wealth.
"The Armenian Youth Federation celebrates and recognizes the importance of
our
nation's victories in establishing, after 600 years of oppression, the first
independent republic of Armenia on May 28, 1918, which laid the foundation of
today's independent republic," explains AYF-WR Chairman Tro Tchekidjian.
Entertainment at the festival will also include performances by Element Band,
Vokee, Sako, Ara Sahagian, Karnig Sarkissian, Nersik Ispirian, Paul
Baghdadlian, Gor Mkhitarian, Ara Shahbazian, and many more. Various dance
groups are also scheduled to perform traditional and contemporary
interpretations of Armenian folk dances throughout the day.
Organizations participating in the festival include the Armenian Relief
Society, Shant Student Association, Homenetmen (Armenian General Athletic
Union
and Scouts), and the Armenian National Committee of America.
For more information on the festival, please contact the AYF Western Region
office at (818) 507-1933 or visit <http://www.ayfwest.org/>www.ayfwest.org.
3 ) Montenegro Referendum Sets Important Precedent for Karabagh
(PanArmenian)This week's referendum for independence in Montenegro
demonstrated
the international community's willingness to accept people's right to
self-determination, setting an important precedent for Mountainous Karabagh
Republic (MKR), said a statement released by its Foreign Affairs Ministry.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry, which regards the referendum as a positive
development, said: "We are convinced that respect of peoples' right to
self-determination is a cornerstone of conflict settlement and tool to
establish political stability."
The statement went on to note that the people of MKR were denied their right
to self-determination after voting in a December 10, 1991 referendum for
independence, instead being subjected to military aggression by Azerbaijan.
"Further neglect of MKR people's right to self-determination... will postpone
the prospect of finding a mutually acceptable solution and establishment of
lasting peace in the region," continued the statement.
The President of MKR, Arkady Ghoukassian, also commented on the referendum in
Montenegro saying that it sets a very important precedent for his country.
"If the international community is ready to recognize Montenegro's and
Kosovo's independence, then I think it will be very difficult for them to
explain, why they do not recognize MKR's," Ghoukassian said.
Ghoukassian added that Karabagh has more legal and geographic grounds for
expecting recognition of independence.
"The people of Nagorno Karabagh have survived the war imposed by Azerbaijan
and have statehood now. I believe we have all grounds for expecting
international recognition of independence," he said.
The President said he is certain the international community will recognize
Karabagh sooner or later.
"The sooner it does it, the better the chances for peace to be sustained in
the region," said Ghoukassian.
4) American Police Hand over Suspect to Armenian Counterparts
YEREVAN (Armenpress)American law enforcement officers handed over to their
Armenian counterparts A. R. Yeranosian, 32, a resident of Yerevan who was
wanted by Armenian law enforcement for an armed attack that took place on May
11 at a Yerevan café.
Yeranosian was arrested on May 14 in Los Angeles and transported to Yerevan
ten days later via Amsterdam.
In the attack, Yerevan resident Ispirian was shot and immediately taken to
the
hospital. During the operation, the bullet was successfully removed and his
life saved.
The Armenian Chief Prosecutor's Office said that a criminal case has been
opened against Yeranosian. If guilty, he will face between eight years and
life
in prison.
5) TAKE ACTION: Urge Judiciary Committee to Remove Hostile Amendment to
Genocide Legislation
The California State Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB 1524, the "Armenian
Genocide Bank and Looted Assets Recovery Act" on May 9, granting Armenian
genocide victims and their heirs access to California courts to recover bank
deposits wrongfully withheld since the Armenian genocide.
During consideration of SB 1524, the committee voted to accept a hostile
amendment that attaches another act, SB 1765 to the Armenian Genocide Bank and
Looted Assets Recovery Act. Vetoed three times by consecutive administrations,
the attached bill entitles lawsuits to be filed for wrongfully repatriated
Mexican Americans during the 1930s.
As a result, the Armenian bill that had previously enjoyed bi-partisan
backing
and unanimous support since its introduction is now attached to a highly
controversial and unrelated bill, endangering its ability to be signed by the
Governor and become law. This bill would make the operation of its provisions
contingent upon the enactment of SB 1765.
What You Can Do:
Introduced by Senate Judiciary Committee member Martha Escutia, the hostile
amendment received the support of Committee chairman Joseph Dunn, and members
Martha Escutia, Sheila Kuehl and Dick Ackerman.
While the ANCA-WR supports the correcting of all historic wrongs, it urges
the
separation of the two distinct bills so that each is considered separately,
based on individual merits.
The ANCA-WR urges members of the community to contact these members of the
Judiciary Committee to express disappointment with the hostile amendment and
urge the senators to restore the separate status of each act.
They can be reached at their Sacramento offices by calling:
Senator Joseph Dunn (D-Garden Grove) - (916) 651-4034 -
[email protected]
Senator Dick Ackerman (R-Fullerton) - (916) 651-4033 -
[email protected]
Senator Martha Escutia (D-Montebello) - (916) 651-4030 -
[email protected]
Senator Sheila Kuehl (D-Los Angeles) - (916) 651-4023 -
[email protected]
6) ARS Luncheon to Be Held at Ararat Home
MISSION HILLS--An annual luncheon sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society of
the Western US (ARS-WR) Regional Executive and its 26 chapters will be held
Tuesday, June 6 at 11:00 AM, in the George Deukmejian Grand Ballroom at Ararat
Home.
Sponsoring the June luncheon is an ARS-WR tradition that provides financial
assistance to the home--which provides assisted living, nursing, and
convalescent care for hundreds of elderly Armenians.
Entertainment during the luncheon will be provided by Allen, a violinist.
Last
year, his music inspired several residents, who were attending the
luncheon, to
dance. Allen, a social worker for the ARS-WR Social Services, is returning to
bring some excitement to both residents and visiting ARS members.
ARS members attending the luncheon will also have the opportunity to visit
residents and tour the Ararat-Eskijian Museum, which is located steps from the
banquet hall.
The luncheon attracts ARS members, their friends, visitors, and residents.
Everyone is welcome. To make reservations, please call the ARS-WR
headquarters
at (818) 500-1343. The Ararat Home Mission Hills campus is located at 15105
Mission Hills Road, Mission Hills, CA 91345.
7) 'The Armenian Adam Smith:' UCLA Holds Conference in Honor of Armenian
Economist
LOS ANGELESA conference titled, "Armenia: Challenges of Sustainable
Development" brought together experts in economics, finance, and public policy
to the University of California, Los Angeles earlier this month to discuss the
achievements and shortcomings of Armenia's economy. The conference about
economic growth, poverty reduction, and financial sector development in
Armenia
was dedicated to Professor Armen Alchian, a world-renowned Armenian-American
economist and UCLA Professor.
Professor Alchian, who was born in Fresno in 1914, received his PhD in
Economics from Stanford University in 1943, served in the US Army Air Force
during World War II, and joined the UCLA faculty and the Rand Corporation in
1946.
Professor Alchian is widely known to his students and colleagues as the
founder of the "UCLA tradition" in economics, a tradition that continues to
this day. It emphasizes that individual behavior is self-seeking and
"rational"
and that this has many unanticipated consequences.
Above all, Alchian is noted for the impact he has had on generations of UCLA
graduate students, in no small measure through his first year course in
microeconomics. Among his many well-known students is William Sharpe, who
received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science in 1990 for his work on
finance. Professor Alchian continues to teach and has been at UCLA for 60
years.
Alchian was born in 1914 in Fresno, California, where his father had
immigrated from Erzerum. His mother was one of the first native-born Armenians
in California, a member of the pioneering Normart family of Fresno. Alchian
has
vivid childhood memories of General Antranig (Ozanian), who lived with his
family for several months in the 1920s, and of Mrs. Ozanian's constant fear
that the lad might hurt himself as he played with Antranig's sword.
'Armenia: Challenges of Sustainable Development'
At the May 6 conference, Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in Modern
Armenian History at UCLA, Professor Richard Hovannisian opened the day with an
overview of the historical role of Armenians in the world economy. Turning to
the Republic of Armenia, he highlighted the tradeoff Armenia has had to make
since 1991 between pressures to privatize the economy and move swiftly to a
full free-market system, on the one hand, and the inadequate preparation and
negative social impact of these processes, on the other hand.
As for the current conference, he stated: "After sixteen semiannual
conferences on Historic Armenian Cities and Provinces and, more recently, on
the Armenian genocide, the present one takes us in a new direction with a hard
look at the immediate challenges facing the Republic of Armenia and its
citizenry."
He added that it was a pleasure to have the young organization, Armenian
International Policy Research Group (AIRPG), serve as a cosponsor and noted
that several of the participants were also members of that group, which seeks
to facilitate public policy discussions in Armenia and in the diaspora and to
foster interaction among researchers and professionals in economics, political
science, law, and government.
Professor Harold Demsetz, a long-time colleague and friend of Armen Alchian,
also spoke, assessing Alchian's important contributions to development of
economic theory, his major works in the field relating to consumer rationality
and behavior of the firm, and his enduring legacy as a teacher and mentor. He
lauded Alchian for his "clarity, originality, willingness to break free from
old approaches," Professor Alchian then was introduced to a highly
appreciative
audience that rose to applaud him before he reflected briefly on his life and
career.
The first plenary session of the conference focused on the recent book on
Armenia published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), "Growth and
Poverty
Reduction in Armenia: Achievements and Challenges," and was moderated by
another prominent UCLA economist, Professor Michael Intriligator who called
Alchian the "Armenian Adam Smith." The presenter, IMF's former mission
chief to
Armenia, Dr. Enrique Gelbard, outlined the key elements of Armenia's
macroeconomic performance in recent years.
While focusing on impressive aggregate growth and low inflation numbers in
Armenia, Dr. Gelbard also emphasized the need for more structural reforms,
particularly those in the governance realm, for Armenia to sustain this growth
momentum. This was followed by comments from three discussantsProfessor
William
Ascher of Claremont McKenna College and AIPRG Advisory Board; Professor Daniel
Mazmanian of the University of Southern California; and Professor Ara Khanjian
of Ventura College and AIPRG.
The afternoon session was chaired by Professor Lee Ohanian of UCLA Economics
Department. The first of the three presentations, made by Dr. David Grigorian
of the IMF and AIPRG, touched on the issue of low tax revenue collection in
Armenia and factors behind this phenomenon.
Subsequently, Dr. Federica Saliola of the World Bank and University of Rome
III presented her work on business climate and firm productivity in Armenia in
2002-2005, and put that in perspective with Armenia's regional competitors.
Finally, Nerses Yeritsyan of the Central Bank of Armenia and AIPRG discussed
the achievements and challenges of Armenia's financial sector and laid out the
Central Bank's ambitious plan of reforming the sector.
At the conclusion of the conference, Professor Hovannisian made the closing
remarks and the crowd gave a standing ovation to the 92 year old Armen
Alchian,
who listened attentively throughout the program.
Mr. and Mrs. Vahik and Alice Petrossian of the Armenian Educational
Foundation
hosted the participants, other visiting scholars from Armenia, Great Britain,
and Canada, and the UCLA Armenian Studies faculty to a post-conference dinner
reception with a number of other AEF members.
This conference was organized by the Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in
Modern Armenian History at UCLA, Professor Richard Hovannisian, and the
Armenian International Policy Research Group, Dr. David Grigorian, with
support
from the UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies and Department of Economics.
8) You're Talking Nonsense, Mr. Ambassador
By Robert Fisk
(The Independent)--A letter from the Turkish Ambassador to the Court of Saint
James arrived for me a few days ago, one of those missives that send a shudder
through the human soul. "You allege that an 'Armenian genocide' took place in
Eastern Anatolia in 1915," His Excellency Mr. Akin Alptuna told me. "I believe
you have some misconceptions about those events..."
Oh indeedy doody, I have. I am under the totally mistaken conception that one
and a half million Armenians were cruelly and deliberately done to death by
their Turkish Ottoman masters in 1915, that the men were shot and knifed while
their womenfolk were raped and eviscerated and cremated and starved on death
marches and their children butchered. I have met a few of the survivors--liars
to a man and woman, if the Turkish ambassador to Britain is to be
believed--and
I have seen the photographs taken of the victims by a brave German
photographer
called Armin Wegner whose pictures must now, I suppose, be consigned to the
waste bins. So must the archives of all those diplomats who courageously
catalogued the mass murders inflicted upon Turkey's Christian population on
the
orders of the gang of nationalists who ran the Ottoman government in 1915.
What would have been our reaction if the ambassador of Germany had written a
note to the same effect? "You allege that a 'Jewish genocide' took place in
Eastern Europe between 1939 and 1945... I believe you have some misconceptions
about those events...' Of course, the moment such a letter became public, the
ambassador of Germany would be condemned by the Foreign Office, our man in
Berlin would--even the pusillanimous Blair might rise to the occasion--be
withdrawn for consultations and the European Union would debate whether
sanctions should be placed upon Germany.
But Mr. Alptuna need have no such worries. His country is not a member of the
European Union--it merely wishes to be--and it was Mr. Blair's craven
administration that for many months tried to prevent Armenian participation in
Britain's Holocaust Day.
Amid this chicanery, there are a few shining bright lights and I should
say at
once that Mr. Alptuna's letter is a grotesque representation of the views of a
growing number of Turkish citizens, a few of whom I have the honor to know,
who
are convinced that the story of the great evil visited upon the Armenians must
be told in their country. So why, oh why, I ask myself, are Mr. Alptuna and
his
colleagues in Paris and Beirut and other cities still peddling this nonsense?
In Lebanon, for example, the Turkish embassy has sent a "communiqué" to the
local French-language L'Orient Le Jour newspaper, referring to the "soi-disant
(so-called) Armenian genocide" and asking why the modern state of Armenia will
not respond to the Turkish call for a joint historical study to "examine the
events" of 1915.
In fact, the Armenian president, Robert Kocharian, will not respond to
such an
invitation for the same reason that the world's Jewish community would not
respond to the call for a similar examination of the Jewish Holocaust from the
Iranian president--because an unprecedented international crime was committed,
the mere questioning of which would be an insult to the millions of victims
who
perished.
But the Turkish appeals are artfully concocted. In Beirut, they recall the
Allied catastrophe at Gallipoli in 1915 when British, French, Australian, and
New Zealand troops suffered massive casualties at the hands of the Turkish
army. In all--including Turkish soldiers--up to a quarter of a million men
perished in the Dardanelles. The Turkish embassy in Beirut rightly states that
the belligerent nations of Gallipoli have transformed these hostilities into
gestures of reconciliation, friendship, and mutual respect. A good try. But
the
bloodbath of Gallipoli did not involve the planned murder of hundreds of
thousands of British, French, Australian, New Zealand--and Turkish--women and
children.
But now for the bright lights. A group of "righteous Turks" are challenging
their government's dishonest account of the 1915 genocide: Ahmet Insel, Baskin
Oran, Halil Berktay, Hrant Dink, Ragip Zarakolu and others claim that the
"democratic process" in Turkey will "chip away at the darkness" and they seek
help from Armenians in doing so. Yet even they will refer only to the 1915
"disaster," the "tragedy," and the "agony" of the Armenians. Dr. Fatma
Gocek of
the University of Michigan is among the bravest of those Turkish-born
academics
who are fighting to confront the Ottoman Empire's terror against the
Armenians.
Yet she, too, objects to the use of the word genocide--though she acknowledges
its accuracy--on the grounds that it has become "politicized" and thus hinders
research.
I have some sympathy with this argument. Why make the job of honest Turks
more
difficult when these good men and women are taking on the might of Turkish
nationalism? The problem is that other, more disreputable folk are demanding
the same deletion. Mr. Alputuna writes to me--with awesome
disingenuousness--that Armenians "have failed to submit any irrefutable
evidence to support their allegations of genocide." And he goes on to say that
"genocide, as you are well aware, has a quite specific legal definition" in
the
UN's 1948 Convention. But Mr. Alputuna is himself well aware--though he does
not say so, of course--that the definition of genocide was set out by Raphael
Lemkin, a Jew, in specific reference to the wholesale mass slaughter of the
Armenians.
And all the while, new diplomatic archives are opening in the West, which
reveal the smell of death--Armenian death--in their pages. I quote here, for
example, from the newly discovered account of Denmark's minister in Turkey
during the First World War. "The Turks are vigorously carrying through their
cruel intention, to exterminate the Armenian people," Carl Wandel wrote on 3
July 1915. The Bishop of Karput was ordered to leave Aleppo within 48 hours
"and it has later been learned that this Bishop and all the clergy that
accompanied him have been... killed between Diyarbekir and Urfa at a place
where approximately 1,700 Armenian families have suffered the same fate... In
Angora... approximately 6,000 men... have been shot on the road... even
here in
Constantinople (Istanbul), Armenians are being abducted and sent to Asia..."
There is much, much more. Yet now here is Mr. Alptuna in his letter to me:
"In
fact, the Armenians living outside Eastern Armenia including Istanbul... were
excluded from deportation." Somebody here is not telling the truth. The late
Mr. Wandel of Copenhagen? Or the Turkish Ambassador to the Court of St.
James?
Article Courtesy of Harry Koundakjian
9) Which One Is It: Alzheimer's, Depression, or Normal Aging Memory Decline?
By Dr. Haygoush Kalinian
From time to time, we all forget where we left our keys, walked into a room
not knowing why we went there in the first place, or have trouble recalling
what we ate last night. If we are elderly, our first thought or fear is "Am I
getting Alzheimer's?"
Well, not necessarily. There are over 100 conditions that mimic dementia
(memory and thinking problems), which are actually reversible and treatable.
These are sometimes called "pseudodementia"--"pseudo" meaning "not genuine or
false." In other words, disorders or conditions that mimic dementia-like
symptoms.
For example, reactions to medications could produce effects symptomatic of
cognitive decline such as, emotional distress or depression, vision and
hearing
problems (undetected problems of vision or hearing may result in inappropriate
responses, which may be misinterpreted as dementia), nutritional deficiency,
endocrine abnormalities (hypothyrodism can cause confusion that mimics
dementia), infections (older people can develop infections that produce a
sudden onset of confusion), subdural hematoma, normal pressure hydrocephalus,
brain tumors that cause mental deterioration, or stroke.
The reason an elderly person's memory is not as sharp as when he/she was
younger could also be subsequent to normal aging process of the brain. As the
body ages, so does the brain. When the body ages, it becomes physically more
difficult to perform. When the brain ages, it becomes slower and loses its
ability to think efficiently.
The proportion of US citizens older than 65 years of age is growing steadily.
It is estimated that 20% of the population will be over 65 years of age by
2030. This aging of the population is expected to bring an increase in the
incidence of depression and dementia. It has been estimated that as many as
10-20% of people over the age of 65 may be affected by chronic brain syndromes
with a rise of 25% when individuals over the age of 80 yeas old are considered
separately. As many as 4 million people have an intellectual impairment severe
enough to meet the criteria for dementia." Although depression and dementia
have many similarities, they also have important distinctions.
How to differentiate between dementia and depression?
"Dementia" is a syndrome consisting of disturbances in distinct cognitive
functions. The main symptom in dementia is memory loss, but other functions
are
also affected, such as orientation, reasoning, problem solving, judgment,
visual-spatial performance, language, and change in personality and emotions.
Dementia is an acquired disorder with evidence of decline in cognitive
functions from a previous level of function, as demonstrated by history and
cognitive testing. As a result, social, occupational, and functional abilities
can deteriorate.
The most common "pseudodementia" and the most easily misdiagnosed is that
associated with depression. General internists and family practitioners
fail to
recognize major depression in up to 20% of their outpatients with the
disorder,
either as depression misdiagnosed as dementia or vice versa. The ability of
primary-care physicians to recognize and correctly treat depression is
important since only approximately 20% of people with depression are
treated by
mental health professionals.
This is especially crucial since both disorders especially depression, are
treatable and misdiagnosis may cause an individual with potential full
cognitive function to be unnecessarily confined in long-term care faculties.
While cognitive and behavioral difficulties (i.e., forgetfulness, bad mood,
slow thinking) in depression are similar to those with suspected dementia,
performance on neuropsychological tests offers a distinct profile. To diagnose
dementia, a complete medical and neuropsychological evaluation is recommended
and a complete patient history is very important. It is of vital importance
that the physician understands the differences between depression and
dementia.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative and progressive brain disorder
characterized by memory loss and problems with language, planning and
organization, reasoning and judgment, spatial abilities, and changes in
personality and behavior. It occurs most often in individuals over the age of
65 years.
A person's chance of developing the disease increases with age.
Individuals 85
years of age and older have the highest rates of the disease. While there are
several types of dementia, Dementia of Alzheimer's Type (DAT) is the most
common form seen in the elderly and may be the single greatest source of
dysfunction in people older than 85. Researchers have estimated that
approximately 360,000 new cases of DAT will occur each year. More than 4
million Americans have DAT, and this number is expected to triple over the
next
20 years with increasing life expectancies and the aging of the "baby boomers"
generation. Women are more likely than men to develop DAT, partly due to their
longer life expectancy.
Although there is no cure for DAT, effective medical and behavioral
treatments
are available. These treatments may help to slow the progression of the
disease. Early diagnosis is important for managing the effects of the disease.
The average time between the diagnosis of DAY and death is 8-10 years, but
this
can vary from person to person. Therefore, legal and financial arrangements
should be made regarding the individual's estate and ongoing care.
What happens to the brain when it ages?
With advancing age every organ of the body undergoes alterations in one
way or
another. The brain is no exception. Effects of aging on the brain are
well-documented. The brain's volume is at its peak until the age of 30 and
declines gradually over the following decades.
Some structures are affected more than others. Cortical atrophy (shrinkage
associated with decrease in number and size of nerve cells) first shows up in
the 40s, followed by dilation of ventricular size in 40s for men, bur not
until
50s in women. Studies have shown modest age related changes particularly in
areas responsible for storage and retrieval of memory (i.e., temporal lobe,
hippocampus, and basilar-subcortical regions). For every decade after the 40s,
the hippocampus loses 5% of its cells. This is very important as the
ability to
learn new information, retain and recall at a later time is processed by the
cells in the hippocampus.
Other brain changes seen in nondemented "normal" elderly persons include the
presence of senile plaques and neurofibrilary tangles, abnormalities
associated
with Alzheimer's disease.
However, there is a distinction between normal aging and Alzheimer's disease
based on the distribution and extent of those features. Major cognitive
changes
that occur with aging appear in nonverbal learning and memory, retention of
verbal material, reaction time, visual-spatial processing speed, and
concentration.
These cognitive changes do not necessarily have to mean impairment affecting
daily living or quality of life. Even healthy elderly people show age-related
decline in some cognitive functions. Research has shown the regular aerobic
exercise may slow the rate of cognitive decline and even reverse it. Increased
blood flow during exercise provides for better oxygenation of the brain. Even
playing video games may be good mental exercise for older person as it can
speed up reaction time. Evidently, exercise and healthy lifestyle are not only
good for general physical health, but also helps the brain work efficiently.
For more information on these and other neuropsychological disorders, please
visit: www.neuropsychconsultant.com.
10) Critics' Forum
Literature
An Archive in A Footnote: The Legacy Project
By Hovig Tchalian
Now that the tumult of events surrounding Genocide commemoration has
subsided,
it is worth taking pause and considering the aftermath. The inevitable moment
after (especially once the celebrations of May 28th also end) brings up the
difficult but enduring question--"What now?" or, more skeptically, "Is this
all
there is?"
An ambitious project, sponsored by the Hamburg Institute for Social Research
and The Rockefeller Foundation, offers perhaps the most satisfying and
propitious answer--allowing the act of remembrance to outlive the moment of
its
inception. The Project consists primarily of a website
(<http://www.legacy-project.org/>www .legacy-project.org) that, as the
site's own
description puts it, "will build a global exchange on the enduring
consequences
of the many historical tragedies of the 20th century."
In essence, the site archives the various reactions to the historical
tragedies of the previous century, in the hope of preventing their future
occurrence, or at least dampening their detrimental effects on society. The
website's "events index" provides a comprehensive alphabetical list of the
nearly 25 "events" included in the archive--from "African Conflicts,"
Apartheid, the Armenian genocide, and the "Cambodian Killing Fields," through
the Holocaust and the struggles of "indigenous peoples," to the two World
Wars.
Admittedly, the strand tying all these "events" together--the issue of social
injustice, broadly conceived--is somewhat tenuous. And the categorization
scheme may be suspect. (What about "indigenous peoples" constitutes a set of
"events"?) Perhaps a better way of linking these various themes together is
under the even broader theme of remembrance, the complex "legacy" that gives
the project its name. According to the website, "the Legacy Project offers a
channel for mutual recognition across generations and geography. Through
scholarly research and innovative presentation, The Legacy Project will create
new--and shared--frameworks for cultural expressions of loss, drawn from
Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Our work will help define the language
of human loss--its forms, its symbols, its grammar... The Legacy Project seeks a
collective, retrospective reflection on the losses that constitute the legacy
of the last century."
The real value of the project--the genuine goal of active remembrance and
comparative historical study facilitated by the creation of a central archive
of various human injustices--is overshadowed by the quite ambitious but
nonetheless diffuse goal of defining "the language of human loss," a goal
arguably more akin to academic studies than to historical reality. The site
nonetheless admirably achieves its more modest goal of preserving the poems,
plays, speeches, films, historical commentary, and a host of other
reactions to
the tragedies that have defined our century and the prior one.
Unlike the more strictly historical mission of, say, the Zoryan Institute,
which carries out the important work of preserving the commentaries of
Genocide
survivors and legal and historical documents related to the event itself, the
Legacy Project preserves the reactions of the generations that succeeded them.
By doing so, it carries out the equally important work of archiving in one
place what would otherwise constitute a scattered series of footnotes, the
"secondary" memory of the historical events that record the shock
registered in
the minds and hearts of more than a century's worth of indirect witnesses. In
this sense, the website performs the much-needed function of commemorating the
act of commemoration itself--testimony to the enduring will of those who would
see the tragedies halted and continual fodder for all of us looking for a
viable answer to the question with which we began, "What now?"
The selections included on the site are nothing short of remarkable. As of
the
last viewing, the website includes virtual exhibitions of "Frank Stella, the
Polish Village Series;" "The "Art of Afterwards;" and a study of "Echoes of
the
Guernica." There is also a "Virtual Symposium" of Holocaust-related issues, as
well as the discussions of the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. The
site also includes a searchable database of the various literary, artistic and
film materials included on the site. Excerpts of the work of Armenian poet and
writer Peter Balakian are represented, as are the enigmatic and powerful
historico-philosophical ruminations of the German-Jewish cultural critic,
Walter Benjamin.
Despite the Legacy Project's sophistication and the breadth and depth of its
archives, there are nonetheless some glaring omissions in its website content.
A search for Atom Egoyan or his film, "Ararat," for instance, will return no
results. And there is a noticeable dearth of items about the Genocide more
generally. Luckily, the remedy is readily available. The website provides the
following email address for feedback and suggestions:
[email protected]. What better way to make one's voice heard while
helping transform the footnotes of the Genocide and other historical tragedies
into a growing archive that will survive the few weeks of their
commemoration?
Hovig Tchalian holds a PhD in English literature from UCLA. He has edited
several journals and also published articles of his own. You can reach him or
any of the other contributors to Critics' Forum at [email protected].
This and all other articles published in this series are available online at
<http://www.criticsforum.org/>www.critics forum.org. To sign up for a weekly
electronic version of new articles, go to
<http://www.criticsforum.org/join>www.cri ticsforum.org/join. Critics' Forum
is a
group created to discuss issues relating to Armenian art and culture in the
diaspora.
11) EIs: On the March Again
By Garen Yegparian
It's election time again and our good buddies, the Electoral Idiots (EIs)
have
ventured forth anew to wreak political ruin for our community. This time
around
the stakes are higher, not just city council seats, but a State Assembly seat;
in California; one of only 80; governing some 36 million people, almost 12.5%
of the US population.
For those not living in California's 43rd Assembly District, this may seem
remote, irrelevant, and possibly an outright waste of ink, but please, read
on.
You may come to change your mind since the issues arising in this race can
teach universal lessons. And see my recommendations for statewide elected
office and a smattering of other races.
Let's establish, affirmatively, what our community's goals should be in the
electoral realm. It will serve as a reference point for evaluating EI
behavior.
It seems simple and straightforward to me. We should develop interested,
talented people. We should advocate strong engagement with the broader host
communities we live in on the political level. We should break down
barriers to
civic/political participation by members of our community. We should put
forward for election those among us who have demonstrated competence and
integration, as the culmination of the individual's and our community's
efforts. We should actively dissuade those "not yet ready for prime time" from
running. We should not be held hostage to the facile argument of "support me
just because I'm Armenian." We should not tolerate those who run for office in
our name but are unwilling to heed our community's needs. We should penalize
those who act in ways detrimental to our interests.
The cast of EIs is somewhat different than last year. Some are back for a
return engagement, others are newbies. But what's ironic is that this time,
they're not even running for office. They're just acting as spoilers for
someone else. You gotta wonder what motivates some of these pathetic
creatures.
Is it money? Is it a moment of glory and visibility? Is it sheer
sniveling? Is
it the Homo Ottomanicus syndrome I've described? Is it hatred--of self or
competing organizations and people? No matter, the outcome is the same--our
community suffers.
Here's the scoop. In the 43rd, whoever wins the Democratic Primary on June 6
has the November election locked up--this thanks to the last round of
gerrymandering by the legislature. The 43rd is also home to the largest number
of Armenians of any Assembly District in California. This is one we should
truly have significant, if not determinant, sway over. This year, we even have
a competent Armenian candidate, Paul Krekorian, not an EI such as those who
played spoilers in Glendale's election last year. There is another
candidate in
the Democratic primary, Frank Quintero, along with one each on the Republican
and Libertarian slates. Not surprisingly, the contested Democratic primary is
generating some heat, but it has taken an ugly turn during the last few days.
The County Registrar of Voters has been sending out letters to some voters in
the 43rd requiring confirmation of their signature on the vote-by-mail (VBM)
request form they had submitted. It seems the Registrar didn't like the
signature; it wasn't close enough to the original. Here, let me share a story
from my experience. Last year, I registered all four members of a family, my
neighbors. When the time came to vote, they opted to VBM. Two of the four had
no problems. One was able to vote, but only after extended discussions--close
to two hours, via telephone, with the Registrar's office, with me. The other
had to report to the City Clerk's office to be able to vote. Why? The
Registrar
didn't like the signature--not on the VBM form, but the original voter
registration! Who gave these people the right to dictate what someone's
signature ought to look like? You can see that the Registrar is not perfect.
Couple this with the understandable difficulty many employees have with our
names, and you've got a recipe for serious, ongoing headaches.
Quintero's campaign has taken the Registrar's queries, chosen to interpret
them as fraud, and promulgated this "finding" through a press conference on
the
steps of the Glendale post office. Among those in attendance and speaking
was a
bigot with a record of spewing anti-Armenian poison during Glendale City
Council meetings. This creature "rhetorically" asked if it wasn't illegal for
people to assist aging voters in their homes. Can you fathom the unmitigated
gall?
An Armenian organization noted for its virtual non-existence was also on
display and spoke its piece. This show generated a lot of media coverage, the
same media that was virtually silent (LA Times, Daily News, Burbank Leader) or
favoring Quintero (Glendale News Press) through much of the campaign. Of
course
our EIs have chimed in, amplifying Quintero's spurious accusations through
their organizations, TV shows, and plain old word of mouth. Have they no
shame?
Some of these Armenians may have legitimate PERSONAL concerns and
interests in
supporting Quintero. These could and should be quietly, discretely pursued.
Most do not have even this excuse at their disposal. But duplicitously
attempting to transform such concerns into our community's interests is the
height of arrogance and selfishness. For example, the chair of the Armenia
Fund
has no business supporting Quintero when the bulk of our community is behind
Krekorian. This demonstrates poor judgment that reflects poorly on and damages
the credibility of a valuable institution we need to support our homeland.
Organizations that have little or no support in the community are using this
as an opportunity to promote themselves, hoping that if Quintero wins, the
crumbs he'll toss their way will allow them to gain standing among Armenians.
This latter class of people--better yet slugs--are those who would've sided
with the Turks during the Genocide, as a friend poignantly observed.
Quintero is fortunate to have these slugs at his disposal. They seem willing
to do anything to divide our community and weaken it--whether now, during
Genocide commemorations, or last year's elections. Krekorian's campaign has
registered over 1500 new voters and helped thousands new to the voting process
navigate their way through it. Naturally this scares an opponent. It seems to
have driven him to the world of slime, and who better to provide it than our
community's slugs?
Over the next few days as these slugs "march" on, poisoning the atmosphere,
ask them what, why, when, how, who. When they holler "fraud," ask them
according to whom? Has the (faulty) Registrar said so? On what grounds? Has
this case been prosecuted? Who's been found guilty by what court? Just poke a
thousand holes in their arguments, it's not difficult, particularly when it's
on one of the numerous call-in shows serving our community. Remember, this is
about electing the most competent, decent, and forthcoming candidate, Paul
Krekorian. Imagine what we can expect of a candidate who resorts to such slimy
tactics during his campaign once he's elected? It does not become you, Mr.
Quintero.
Be sure to vote. Be sure to vote for Paul Krekorian if you're in the
district.
And take a look at my other picks in the accompanying box. I've only selected
names when more than one person is running in a given party's primary. I won't
pretend to explain my choices of candidates. It's far too messy for such a
small space. Regarding Propositions 81 and 82, both introduce long needed
programs, and the latter also has the added benefit of making the wealthiest
among us pay their fair share.
BALLOT MEASURES
Proposition 81: Yes
Proposition 82: Yes
GOVERNOR
Phil Angelides (Democratic)
Arnold Schwarzenegger (Republican)
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
Jackie Speier (Democratic)
Tom McClintock (Republican)
SECRETARY OF STATE
Debra Bowen (Democratic)
CONTROLLER
Joe Dunne (Democratic)
Abel Maldonado (Republican)
TREASURER
Keith S. Richman (Republican)
ATTORNEY GENERAL
Jerry Brown (Democratic)
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER
Cruz Bustamante (Democratic)
SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
Jack T. O'Connell (Nonpartisan race)
SENATE DISTRICT 20
Cindy Montanez (Democratic)
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 44
Anthony Portantino (Democratic)
12) JUNE 6 ELECTION: CHOOSE, BUT CHOOSE WISELY!
By SKEPTIK SINIKIAN
Every time it's Spring in Los Angeles it seems as though people act stranger
than usual. Maybe it's the warm weather or hormones. Or maybe it's just the
fact that I live in Glendale and the upcoming June primary elections are
driving everyone nuts. I'm going to delve into this topic because I feel it's
important that someone knows what's going on in their community, particularly
when it comes to politics.
To most Armenians, discussing politics means sitting in a backyard at a
family
barbecue and discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflicts and tying that in to
vague recollections of the civil war in Lebanon or remembering where they were
when Khrushchev banged his shoe on the lectern at the UN or when the US
Embassy
was taken over in Iran. Don't act like you've never been part of any of these
conversations! I don't even go to that many family barbecues and I've
overheard
more of these conversations than I'd care to remember.
What amazes me the most however, is that whenever it comes to politics in
America, domestic issues, Armenians are overall very apathetic. Unless a
decision made in Congress raises the luxury tax on BMWs or Mercedes Benzes,
they'd rather not vote or be involved. But over the last six years, this has
changed in areas like Southern California and most visibly in Glendale where
practically 8 of the city's 15 elected officials are Armenian. There's even an
elected clerk and most people can't tell me what a clerk's responsibilities
are! Even stranger was that three or four Armenians ran for that job!
It seems as though insanity ensues whenever these elections roll around, be
they in April or June. Lawn signs pop up in the most random places which make
you wonder who in the world climbed up to the side of that hill to place it
there and who did they think would see it or be impressed by it. "Look honey,
the coyotes have endorsed Hovik Hovikian for Ombudsman of Glendale!" My
favorite is the Armenian grocery stores that will try to appeal to everyone by
putting up everyone's signs as though to say "We have no principles, we just
want your money! Our lahmajunes love EVERYONE!!" I'd bet some of these places
are the same ones that sell Turkish products instead of Armenian ones.
So what does this mean for our community? Well, for one thing, there are a
few
important races involving Armenians on the state level. And no, it's not
Senator Poochigian's bid for the Republican nomination for Attorney General.
He's running virtually unopposed and will run away with the nomination.
There's
a race in Anaheim/Yorba Linda (President Richard Nixon's old stomping grounds)
in which an Armenian-American, Marty Simonoff is vying for the Republican
nomination. He's been active in the community and quite outspoken. Good guy
and
deserves any support the Armenians in Orange County and Montebello can give
him. But the real battle royale is taking place in Glendale in the 43rd
Assembly District where the election has gotten uglier than one of Michael
Jackson's passport photos.
Why has it gotten so ugly? Well, for one, Latino leaders see this seat as
belonging to a Latino candidate even though Armenians outnumber Latinos in
Glendale. The other reason is because one of the candidates, Glendale
councilman Frank Quintero, has been using a handful of clueless Armenian to
bolster his involvement in the Armenian community. That's all fine and dandy
but when the opponent is an activist leader in the Armenian community like
School Board President Paul Krekorian, then there is virtually no comparison.
Krekorian is leading the race by many accounts--support amongst the Democratic
party faithful, various polling, and general likeability. At one point he was
even leading in money, but because some of our community members are more
interested in their bank accounts than advancing the general public's
interest,
Quintero has raised over $100,000 from Armenian developers, banquet hall
owners, and other business owners. Here's the list of folks that looks like
the
menu at the Chicken Ranch in Texas. (That's a brothel and yes I'm making that
connection) Look at the names for yourself if you don't believe me.
www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/lookup. php?committee=1279156
This is an interesting site and you might even be interested to see who some
our "community leaders" are looking out for our interests. Krekorian has
worked
his tail off for the Armenian-American students in Burbank and being a leading
voice in the Democratic party in California when few other individuals were
doing that. Quintero has been in a few marches and says "parev" on TV and some
Armenians are ready to name their newborn daughter Frankush. It's insane and
doesn't make sense.
The election is June 6 and if you don't think that this is important than
read
the following article from Capitol Weekly--a Sacramento inside publication
that
tracks races. www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id =743
So vote! Make your voice heard! Because if the right guy for the job (that
would be Krekorian for my slower readers) doesn't win on June 6... well, let's
just say that opportunities like this one don't grow on trees. I just hope
that
the Quintero donors realize their mistakes before it's too late.
All of this election insanity and the Armenian community reminded me of the
following anecdote. One day while campaigning against Dwight Eisenhower during
the 1952 presidential election, Adlai Stevenson was approached by a female
admirer. "Governor," she enthused, "every thinking person will be voting for
you." "Madam, that is not enough," Stevenson replied. "I need a majority!"
So tell your family. Tell your friends. Get out and vote. Because on June 6,
being smart or committed is not enough. We need a majority!
Skeptik Sinikian urges everyone go out and vote on June 6 and make the wise
choice. If you disagree with Skeptik, you can reach him at
[email protected] or visit his blog at
<http://www.sinikian.blogspot.com/>www.si nikian.blogspot.com.
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ASBAREZ ONLINE
TOP STORIES
05/26/2006
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1) First ANCA Telethon Raises $2.7 Million Communities Across the U.S.
Unite to
Support ANCA's Mission
2) Armenian Independence Day Festival in Little Armenia Sets Stage for Dynamic
Celebration
3) Montenegro Referendum Sets Important Precedent for Karabagh
4) American Police Hand over Suspect to Armenian Counterparts
5) TAKE ACTION: Urge Judiciary Committee to Remove Hostile Amendment to
Genocide Legislation
6) ARS Luncheon to Be Held at Ararat Home
7) 'The Armenian Adam Smith:' UCLA Holds Conference in Honor of Armenian
Economist
8) You're Talking Nonsense, Mr. Ambassador: By Robert Fisk
9) Which One Is It: Alzheimer's, Depression, or Normal Aging Memory Decline?:
By Dr. Haygoush Kalinian
10) Critics' Forum: Literature: By Hovig Tchalian
11) EIs: On the March Again: By Garen Yegparian
12) JUNE 6 ELECTION: CHOOSE, BUT CHOOSE WISELY!: By SKEPTIK SINIKIAN
1) First ANCA Telethon Raises $2.7 Million Communities Across the U.S.
Unite to
Support ANCA's Mission
WASHINGTON, DC--In an overwhelming display of unity behind the Armenian
National Committee of America's mission to educate, motivate, and activate our
communities, Armenian Americans, organizations, and communities across the
United States raised $2.7 million during the ANCA Telethon on May 21 with
additional donations still coming in. The groundswell of donations came from
the entire spectrum of the Armenian community demonstrating the widespread
support for the ANCA's accomplishments and the desire to see its work expand
further.
"The Telethon was one of the ANCA's most ambitious endeavors to date, pulling
together every part of our grassroots network, and the results demonstrate the
overwhelming support for our mission to unite the community behind the
Armenian
Cause--Hai Tahd," said Ken Hachikian, National Chairman of the ANCA.
"We are gratified by the confidence Armenian Americans across the nation have
placed in us and pledge to the Armenian community that we will make every
dollar count as we work to vigorously pursue and represent the interests of
the
community in the local, national and international political and policy
arenas," said Hachikian.
The Telethon touched a common emotional desire in people to support the
Armenian Cause in all the different parts of our communities, regardless of
organizational affiliations or politics. Countless organizations, volunteers,
churches, community leaders, ANC local chapters, performing artists,
Members of
Congress, and state legislators from across the nation participated in the
Telethon contributing to its enormous success.
The Telethon also featured several documentaries that highlighted the various
ANCA programs and results the ANCA has achieved over the years largely through
its volunteer and grassroots network.
In addition to hundreds of thousands of viewers who watched the Telethon
on TV
in all major US media markets, thousands--nationally and internationally--also
watched the Telethon via a simultaneous webcast over the Internet and donated
online.
While the Telethon raised funds for the ANCA Endowment, it also served to
expand the level of knowledge and understanding within the community about the
important work that is being done on a daily basis by the ANCA. One of the
ANCA's goals is to engage and activate more segments as part of the ANCA's
grassroots network and the Telethon helped expand that reach.
Donations are still being accepted for the ANCA Telethon and those interested
in contributing should call 1-866-402-2622 (ANCA) or go to
<http://www.anca.org/>www.anca.org and click on the Telethon logo to make a
donation online.
2) Armenian Independence Day Festival in Little Armenia Sets Stage for Dynamic
Celebration
--Los Angeles Mayor Villaraigosa, diverse entertainment, and vendors all a
part
of unprecedented 'block party'
HOLLYWOOD--The Armenian Cultural Foundation has joined forces with the
Armenian Youth Federation - Western Region (AYF-WR), in coordination with Los
Angeles Council President Eric Garcetti, to present a dynamic festival in the
heart of Little Armenia on Sunday, May 28, 2006.
Though the festival is an annual event for the AYF-WR in celebrating
Armenia's
first independence, this year's celebration is unprecedented because portions
of Hollywood Boulevard (between Vermont and Alexandria) will be blocked-off
just for the event. The festival is the result of extensive teamwork between
Council President Garcetti's office, the ACF, and AYF, and will include
special
visits by representatives of the Armenian Consulate in LA, and Los Angeles
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
A variety of vendors, diverse entertainers, performers, writers, and
organizations will be on hand from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, highlighting Armenian
culture and raising awareness about Armenian history. Traditional Armenian
food
and artifacts will also be a part of the festivities, all in the tradition of
celebrating Armenia's cultural wealth.
"The Armenian Youth Federation celebrates and recognizes the importance of
our
nation's victories in establishing, after 600 years of oppression, the first
independent republic of Armenia on May 28, 1918, which laid the foundation of
today's independent republic," explains AYF-WR Chairman Tro Tchekidjian.
Entertainment at the festival will also include performances by Element Band,
Vokee, Sako, Ara Sahagian, Karnig Sarkissian, Nersik Ispirian, Paul
Baghdadlian, Gor Mkhitarian, Ara Shahbazian, and many more. Various dance
groups are also scheduled to perform traditional and contemporary
interpretations of Armenian folk dances throughout the day.
Organizations participating in the festival include the Armenian Relief
Society, Shant Student Association, Homenetmen (Armenian General Athletic
Union
and Scouts), and the Armenian National Committee of America.
For more information on the festival, please contact the AYF Western Region
office at (818) 507-1933 or visit <http://www.ayfwest.org/>www.ayfwest.org.
3 ) Montenegro Referendum Sets Important Precedent for Karabagh
(PanArmenian)This week's referendum for independence in Montenegro
demonstrated
the international community's willingness to accept people's right to
self-determination, setting an important precedent for Mountainous Karabagh
Republic (MKR), said a statement released by its Foreign Affairs Ministry.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry, which regards the referendum as a positive
development, said: "We are convinced that respect of peoples' right to
self-determination is a cornerstone of conflict settlement and tool to
establish political stability."
The statement went on to note that the people of MKR were denied their right
to self-determination after voting in a December 10, 1991 referendum for
independence, instead being subjected to military aggression by Azerbaijan.
"Further neglect of MKR people's right to self-determination... will postpone
the prospect of finding a mutually acceptable solution and establishment of
lasting peace in the region," continued the statement.
The President of MKR, Arkady Ghoukassian, also commented on the referendum in
Montenegro saying that it sets a very important precedent for his country.
"If the international community is ready to recognize Montenegro's and
Kosovo's independence, then I think it will be very difficult for them to
explain, why they do not recognize MKR's," Ghoukassian said.
Ghoukassian added that Karabagh has more legal and geographic grounds for
expecting recognition of independence.
"The people of Nagorno Karabagh have survived the war imposed by Azerbaijan
and have statehood now. I believe we have all grounds for expecting
international recognition of independence," he said.
The President said he is certain the international community will recognize
Karabagh sooner or later.
"The sooner it does it, the better the chances for peace to be sustained in
the region," said Ghoukassian.
4) American Police Hand over Suspect to Armenian Counterparts
YEREVAN (Armenpress)American law enforcement officers handed over to their
Armenian counterparts A. R. Yeranosian, 32, a resident of Yerevan who was
wanted by Armenian law enforcement for an armed attack that took place on May
11 at a Yerevan café.
Yeranosian was arrested on May 14 in Los Angeles and transported to Yerevan
ten days later via Amsterdam.
In the attack, Yerevan resident Ispirian was shot and immediately taken to
the
hospital. During the operation, the bullet was successfully removed and his
life saved.
The Armenian Chief Prosecutor's Office said that a criminal case has been
opened against Yeranosian. If guilty, he will face between eight years and
life
in prison.
5) TAKE ACTION: Urge Judiciary Committee to Remove Hostile Amendment to
Genocide Legislation
The California State Senate Judiciary Committee passed SB 1524, the "Armenian
Genocide Bank and Looted Assets Recovery Act" on May 9, granting Armenian
genocide victims and their heirs access to California courts to recover bank
deposits wrongfully withheld since the Armenian genocide.
During consideration of SB 1524, the committee voted to accept a hostile
amendment that attaches another act, SB 1765 to the Armenian Genocide Bank and
Looted Assets Recovery Act. Vetoed three times by consecutive administrations,
the attached bill entitles lawsuits to be filed for wrongfully repatriated
Mexican Americans during the 1930s.
As a result, the Armenian bill that had previously enjoyed bi-partisan
backing
and unanimous support since its introduction is now attached to a highly
controversial and unrelated bill, endangering its ability to be signed by the
Governor and become law. This bill would make the operation of its provisions
contingent upon the enactment of SB 1765.
What You Can Do:
Introduced by Senate Judiciary Committee member Martha Escutia, the hostile
amendment received the support of Committee chairman Joseph Dunn, and members
Martha Escutia, Sheila Kuehl and Dick Ackerman.
While the ANCA-WR supports the correcting of all historic wrongs, it urges
the
separation of the two distinct bills so that each is considered separately,
based on individual merits.
The ANCA-WR urges members of the community to contact these members of the
Judiciary Committee to express disappointment with the hostile amendment and
urge the senators to restore the separate status of each act.
They can be reached at their Sacramento offices by calling:
Senator Joseph Dunn (D-Garden Grove) - (916) 651-4034 -
[email protected]
Senator Dick Ackerman (R-Fullerton) - (916) 651-4033 -
[email protected]
Senator Martha Escutia (D-Montebello) - (916) 651-4030 -
[email protected]
Senator Sheila Kuehl (D-Los Angeles) - (916) 651-4023 -
[email protected]
6) ARS Luncheon to Be Held at Ararat Home
MISSION HILLS--An annual luncheon sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society of
the Western US (ARS-WR) Regional Executive and its 26 chapters will be held
Tuesday, June 6 at 11:00 AM, in the George Deukmejian Grand Ballroom at Ararat
Home.
Sponsoring the June luncheon is an ARS-WR tradition that provides financial
assistance to the home--which provides assisted living, nursing, and
convalescent care for hundreds of elderly Armenians.
Entertainment during the luncheon will be provided by Allen, a violinist.
Last
year, his music inspired several residents, who were attending the
luncheon, to
dance. Allen, a social worker for the ARS-WR Social Services, is returning to
bring some excitement to both residents and visiting ARS members.
ARS members attending the luncheon will also have the opportunity to visit
residents and tour the Ararat-Eskijian Museum, which is located steps from the
banquet hall.
The luncheon attracts ARS members, their friends, visitors, and residents.
Everyone is welcome. To make reservations, please call the ARS-WR
headquarters
at (818) 500-1343. The Ararat Home Mission Hills campus is located at 15105
Mission Hills Road, Mission Hills, CA 91345.
7) 'The Armenian Adam Smith:' UCLA Holds Conference in Honor of Armenian
Economist
LOS ANGELESA conference titled, "Armenia: Challenges of Sustainable
Development" brought together experts in economics, finance, and public policy
to the University of California, Los Angeles earlier this month to discuss the
achievements and shortcomings of Armenia's economy. The conference about
economic growth, poverty reduction, and financial sector development in
Armenia
was dedicated to Professor Armen Alchian, a world-renowned Armenian-American
economist and UCLA Professor.
Professor Alchian, who was born in Fresno in 1914, received his PhD in
Economics from Stanford University in 1943, served in the US Army Air Force
during World War II, and joined the UCLA faculty and the Rand Corporation in
1946.
Professor Alchian is widely known to his students and colleagues as the
founder of the "UCLA tradition" in economics, a tradition that continues to
this day. It emphasizes that individual behavior is self-seeking and
"rational"
and that this has many unanticipated consequences.
Above all, Alchian is noted for the impact he has had on generations of UCLA
graduate students, in no small measure through his first year course in
microeconomics. Among his many well-known students is William Sharpe, who
received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Science in 1990 for his work on
finance. Professor Alchian continues to teach and has been at UCLA for 60
years.
Alchian was born in 1914 in Fresno, California, where his father had
immigrated from Erzerum. His mother was one of the first native-born Armenians
in California, a member of the pioneering Normart family of Fresno. Alchian
has
vivid childhood memories of General Antranig (Ozanian), who lived with his
family for several months in the 1920s, and of Mrs. Ozanian's constant fear
that the lad might hurt himself as he played with Antranig's sword.
'Armenia: Challenges of Sustainable Development'
At the May 6 conference, Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in Modern
Armenian History at UCLA, Professor Richard Hovannisian opened the day with an
overview of the historical role of Armenians in the world economy. Turning to
the Republic of Armenia, he highlighted the tradeoff Armenia has had to make
since 1991 between pressures to privatize the economy and move swiftly to a
full free-market system, on the one hand, and the inadequate preparation and
negative social impact of these processes, on the other hand.
As for the current conference, he stated: "After sixteen semiannual
conferences on Historic Armenian Cities and Provinces and, more recently, on
the Armenian genocide, the present one takes us in a new direction with a hard
look at the immediate challenges facing the Republic of Armenia and its
citizenry."
He added that it was a pleasure to have the young organization, Armenian
International Policy Research Group (AIRPG), serve as a cosponsor and noted
that several of the participants were also members of that group, which seeks
to facilitate public policy discussions in Armenia and in the diaspora and to
foster interaction among researchers and professionals in economics, political
science, law, and government.
Professor Harold Demsetz, a long-time colleague and friend of Armen Alchian,
also spoke, assessing Alchian's important contributions to development of
economic theory, his major works in the field relating to consumer rationality
and behavior of the firm, and his enduring legacy as a teacher and mentor. He
lauded Alchian for his "clarity, originality, willingness to break free from
old approaches," Professor Alchian then was introduced to a highly
appreciative
audience that rose to applaud him before he reflected briefly on his life and
career.
The first plenary session of the conference focused on the recent book on
Armenia published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), "Growth and
Poverty
Reduction in Armenia: Achievements and Challenges," and was moderated by
another prominent UCLA economist, Professor Michael Intriligator who called
Alchian the "Armenian Adam Smith." The presenter, IMF's former mission
chief to
Armenia, Dr. Enrique Gelbard, outlined the key elements of Armenia's
macroeconomic performance in recent years.
While focusing on impressive aggregate growth and low inflation numbers in
Armenia, Dr. Gelbard also emphasized the need for more structural reforms,
particularly those in the governance realm, for Armenia to sustain this growth
momentum. This was followed by comments from three discussantsProfessor
William
Ascher of Claremont McKenna College and AIPRG Advisory Board; Professor Daniel
Mazmanian of the University of Southern California; and Professor Ara Khanjian
of Ventura College and AIPRG.
The afternoon session was chaired by Professor Lee Ohanian of UCLA Economics
Department. The first of the three presentations, made by Dr. David Grigorian
of the IMF and AIPRG, touched on the issue of low tax revenue collection in
Armenia and factors behind this phenomenon.
Subsequently, Dr. Federica Saliola of the World Bank and University of Rome
III presented her work on business climate and firm productivity in Armenia in
2002-2005, and put that in perspective with Armenia's regional competitors.
Finally, Nerses Yeritsyan of the Central Bank of Armenia and AIPRG discussed
the achievements and challenges of Armenia's financial sector and laid out the
Central Bank's ambitious plan of reforming the sector.
At the conclusion of the conference, Professor Hovannisian made the closing
remarks and the crowd gave a standing ovation to the 92 year old Armen
Alchian,
who listened attentively throughout the program.
Mr. and Mrs. Vahik and Alice Petrossian of the Armenian Educational
Foundation
hosted the participants, other visiting scholars from Armenia, Great Britain,
and Canada, and the UCLA Armenian Studies faculty to a post-conference dinner
reception with a number of other AEF members.
This conference was organized by the Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in
Modern Armenian History at UCLA, Professor Richard Hovannisian, and the
Armenian International Policy Research Group, Dr. David Grigorian, with
support
from the UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies and Department of Economics.
8) You're Talking Nonsense, Mr. Ambassador
By Robert Fisk
(The Independent)--A letter from the Turkish Ambassador to the Court of Saint
James arrived for me a few days ago, one of those missives that send a shudder
through the human soul. "You allege that an 'Armenian genocide' took place in
Eastern Anatolia in 1915," His Excellency Mr. Akin Alptuna told me. "I believe
you have some misconceptions about those events..."
Oh indeedy doody, I have. I am under the totally mistaken conception that one
and a half million Armenians were cruelly and deliberately done to death by
their Turkish Ottoman masters in 1915, that the men were shot and knifed while
their womenfolk were raped and eviscerated and cremated and starved on death
marches and their children butchered. I have met a few of the survivors--liars
to a man and woman, if the Turkish ambassador to Britain is to be
believed--and
I have seen the photographs taken of the victims by a brave German
photographer
called Armin Wegner whose pictures must now, I suppose, be consigned to the
waste bins. So must the archives of all those diplomats who courageously
catalogued the mass murders inflicted upon Turkey's Christian population on
the
orders of the gang of nationalists who ran the Ottoman government in 1915.
What would have been our reaction if the ambassador of Germany had written a
note to the same effect? "You allege that a 'Jewish genocide' took place in
Eastern Europe between 1939 and 1945... I believe you have some misconceptions
about those events...' Of course, the moment such a letter became public, the
ambassador of Germany would be condemned by the Foreign Office, our man in
Berlin would--even the pusillanimous Blair might rise to the occasion--be
withdrawn for consultations and the European Union would debate whether
sanctions should be placed upon Germany.
But Mr. Alptuna need have no such worries. His country is not a member of the
European Union--it merely wishes to be--and it was Mr. Blair's craven
administration that for many months tried to prevent Armenian participation in
Britain's Holocaust Day.
Amid this chicanery, there are a few shining bright lights and I should
say at
once that Mr. Alptuna's letter is a grotesque representation of the views of a
growing number of Turkish citizens, a few of whom I have the honor to know,
who
are convinced that the story of the great evil visited upon the Armenians must
be told in their country. So why, oh why, I ask myself, are Mr. Alptuna and
his
colleagues in Paris and Beirut and other cities still peddling this nonsense?
In Lebanon, for example, the Turkish embassy has sent a "communiqué" to the
local French-language L'Orient Le Jour newspaper, referring to the "soi-disant
(so-called) Armenian genocide" and asking why the modern state of Armenia will
not respond to the Turkish call for a joint historical study to "examine the
events" of 1915.
In fact, the Armenian president, Robert Kocharian, will not respond to
such an
invitation for the same reason that the world's Jewish community would not
respond to the call for a similar examination of the Jewish Holocaust from the
Iranian president--because an unprecedented international crime was committed,
the mere questioning of which would be an insult to the millions of victims
who
perished.
But the Turkish appeals are artfully concocted. In Beirut, they recall the
Allied catastrophe at Gallipoli in 1915 when British, French, Australian, and
New Zealand troops suffered massive casualties at the hands of the Turkish
army. In all--including Turkish soldiers--up to a quarter of a million men
perished in the Dardanelles. The Turkish embassy in Beirut rightly states that
the belligerent nations of Gallipoli have transformed these hostilities into
gestures of reconciliation, friendship, and mutual respect. A good try. But
the
bloodbath of Gallipoli did not involve the planned murder of hundreds of
thousands of British, French, Australian, New Zealand--and Turkish--women and
children.
But now for the bright lights. A group of "righteous Turks" are challenging
their government's dishonest account of the 1915 genocide: Ahmet Insel, Baskin
Oran, Halil Berktay, Hrant Dink, Ragip Zarakolu and others claim that the
"democratic process" in Turkey will "chip away at the darkness" and they seek
help from Armenians in doing so. Yet even they will refer only to the 1915
"disaster," the "tragedy," and the "agony" of the Armenians. Dr. Fatma
Gocek of
the University of Michigan is among the bravest of those Turkish-born
academics
who are fighting to confront the Ottoman Empire's terror against the
Armenians.
Yet she, too, objects to the use of the word genocide--though she acknowledges
its accuracy--on the grounds that it has become "politicized" and thus hinders
research.
I have some sympathy with this argument. Why make the job of honest Turks
more
difficult when these good men and women are taking on the might of Turkish
nationalism? The problem is that other, more disreputable folk are demanding
the same deletion. Mr. Alputuna writes to me--with awesome
disingenuousness--that Armenians "have failed to submit any irrefutable
evidence to support their allegations of genocide." And he goes on to say that
"genocide, as you are well aware, has a quite specific legal definition" in
the
UN's 1948 Convention. But Mr. Alputuna is himself well aware--though he does
not say so, of course--that the definition of genocide was set out by Raphael
Lemkin, a Jew, in specific reference to the wholesale mass slaughter of the
Armenians.
And all the while, new diplomatic archives are opening in the West, which
reveal the smell of death--Armenian death--in their pages. I quote here, for
example, from the newly discovered account of Denmark's minister in Turkey
during the First World War. "The Turks are vigorously carrying through their
cruel intention, to exterminate the Armenian people," Carl Wandel wrote on 3
July 1915. The Bishop of Karput was ordered to leave Aleppo within 48 hours
"and it has later been learned that this Bishop and all the clergy that
accompanied him have been... killed between Diyarbekir and Urfa at a place
where approximately 1,700 Armenian families have suffered the same fate... In
Angora... approximately 6,000 men... have been shot on the road... even
here in
Constantinople (Istanbul), Armenians are being abducted and sent to Asia..."
There is much, much more. Yet now here is Mr. Alptuna in his letter to me:
"In
fact, the Armenians living outside Eastern Armenia including Istanbul... were
excluded from deportation." Somebody here is not telling the truth. The late
Mr. Wandel of Copenhagen? Or the Turkish Ambassador to the Court of St.
James?
Article Courtesy of Harry Koundakjian
9) Which One Is It: Alzheimer's, Depression, or Normal Aging Memory Decline?
By Dr. Haygoush Kalinian
From time to time, we all forget where we left our keys, walked into a room
not knowing why we went there in the first place, or have trouble recalling
what we ate last night. If we are elderly, our first thought or fear is "Am I
getting Alzheimer's?"
Well, not necessarily. There are over 100 conditions that mimic dementia
(memory and thinking problems), which are actually reversible and treatable.
These are sometimes called "pseudodementia"--"pseudo" meaning "not genuine or
false." In other words, disorders or conditions that mimic dementia-like
symptoms.
For example, reactions to medications could produce effects symptomatic of
cognitive decline such as, emotional distress or depression, vision and
hearing
problems (undetected problems of vision or hearing may result in inappropriate
responses, which may be misinterpreted as dementia), nutritional deficiency,
endocrine abnormalities (hypothyrodism can cause confusion that mimics
dementia), infections (older people can develop infections that produce a
sudden onset of confusion), subdural hematoma, normal pressure hydrocephalus,
brain tumors that cause mental deterioration, or stroke.
The reason an elderly person's memory is not as sharp as when he/she was
younger could also be subsequent to normal aging process of the brain. As the
body ages, so does the brain. When the body ages, it becomes physically more
difficult to perform. When the brain ages, it becomes slower and loses its
ability to think efficiently.
The proportion of US citizens older than 65 years of age is growing steadily.
It is estimated that 20% of the population will be over 65 years of age by
2030. This aging of the population is expected to bring an increase in the
incidence of depression and dementia. It has been estimated that as many as
10-20% of people over the age of 65 may be affected by chronic brain syndromes
with a rise of 25% when individuals over the age of 80 yeas old are considered
separately. As many as 4 million people have an intellectual impairment severe
enough to meet the criteria for dementia." Although depression and dementia
have many similarities, they also have important distinctions.
How to differentiate between dementia and depression?
"Dementia" is a syndrome consisting of disturbances in distinct cognitive
functions. The main symptom in dementia is memory loss, but other functions
are
also affected, such as orientation, reasoning, problem solving, judgment,
visual-spatial performance, language, and change in personality and emotions.
Dementia is an acquired disorder with evidence of decline in cognitive
functions from a previous level of function, as demonstrated by history and
cognitive testing. As a result, social, occupational, and functional abilities
can deteriorate.
The most common "pseudodementia" and the most easily misdiagnosed is that
associated with depression. General internists and family practitioners
fail to
recognize major depression in up to 20% of their outpatients with the
disorder,
either as depression misdiagnosed as dementia or vice versa. The ability of
primary-care physicians to recognize and correctly treat depression is
important since only approximately 20% of people with depression are
treated by
mental health professionals.
This is especially crucial since both disorders especially depression, are
treatable and misdiagnosis may cause an individual with potential full
cognitive function to be unnecessarily confined in long-term care faculties.
While cognitive and behavioral difficulties (i.e., forgetfulness, bad mood,
slow thinking) in depression are similar to those with suspected dementia,
performance on neuropsychological tests offers a distinct profile. To diagnose
dementia, a complete medical and neuropsychological evaluation is recommended
and a complete patient history is very important. It is of vital importance
that the physician understands the differences between depression and
dementia.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative and progressive brain disorder
characterized by memory loss and problems with language, planning and
organization, reasoning and judgment, spatial abilities, and changes in
personality and behavior. It occurs most often in individuals over the age of
65 years.
A person's chance of developing the disease increases with age.
Individuals 85
years of age and older have the highest rates of the disease. While there are
several types of dementia, Dementia of Alzheimer's Type (DAT) is the most
common form seen in the elderly and may be the single greatest source of
dysfunction in people older than 85. Researchers have estimated that
approximately 360,000 new cases of DAT will occur each year. More than 4
million Americans have DAT, and this number is expected to triple over the
next
20 years with increasing life expectancies and the aging of the "baby boomers"
generation. Women are more likely than men to develop DAT, partly due to their
longer life expectancy.
Although there is no cure for DAT, effective medical and behavioral
treatments
are available. These treatments may help to slow the progression of the
disease. Early diagnosis is important for managing the effects of the disease.
The average time between the diagnosis of DAY and death is 8-10 years, but
this
can vary from person to person. Therefore, legal and financial arrangements
should be made regarding the individual's estate and ongoing care.
What happens to the brain when it ages?
With advancing age every organ of the body undergoes alterations in one
way or
another. The brain is no exception. Effects of aging on the brain are
well-documented. The brain's volume is at its peak until the age of 30 and
declines gradually over the following decades.
Some structures are affected more than others. Cortical atrophy (shrinkage
associated with decrease in number and size of nerve cells) first shows up in
the 40s, followed by dilation of ventricular size in 40s for men, bur not
until
50s in women. Studies have shown modest age related changes particularly in
areas responsible for storage and retrieval of memory (i.e., temporal lobe,
hippocampus, and basilar-subcortical regions). For every decade after the 40s,
the hippocampus loses 5% of its cells. This is very important as the
ability to
learn new information, retain and recall at a later time is processed by the
cells in the hippocampus.
Other brain changes seen in nondemented "normal" elderly persons include the
presence of senile plaques and neurofibrilary tangles, abnormalities
associated
with Alzheimer's disease.
However, there is a distinction between normal aging and Alzheimer's disease
based on the distribution and extent of those features. Major cognitive
changes
that occur with aging appear in nonverbal learning and memory, retention of
verbal material, reaction time, visual-spatial processing speed, and
concentration.
These cognitive changes do not necessarily have to mean impairment affecting
daily living or quality of life. Even healthy elderly people show age-related
decline in some cognitive functions. Research has shown the regular aerobic
exercise may slow the rate of cognitive decline and even reverse it. Increased
blood flow during exercise provides for better oxygenation of the brain. Even
playing video games may be good mental exercise for older person as it can
speed up reaction time. Evidently, exercise and healthy lifestyle are not only
good for general physical health, but also helps the brain work efficiently.
For more information on these and other neuropsychological disorders, please
visit: www.neuropsychconsultant.com.
10) Critics' Forum
Literature
An Archive in A Footnote: The Legacy Project
By Hovig Tchalian
Now that the tumult of events surrounding Genocide commemoration has
subsided,
it is worth taking pause and considering the aftermath. The inevitable moment
after (especially once the celebrations of May 28th also end) brings up the
difficult but enduring question--"What now?" or, more skeptically, "Is this
all
there is?"
An ambitious project, sponsored by the Hamburg Institute for Social Research
and The Rockefeller Foundation, offers perhaps the most satisfying and
propitious answer--allowing the act of remembrance to outlive the moment of
its
inception. The Project consists primarily of a website
(<http://www.legacy-project.org/>www .legacy-project.org) that, as the
site's own
description puts it, "will build a global exchange on the enduring
consequences
of the many historical tragedies of the 20th century."
In essence, the site archives the various reactions to the historical
tragedies of the previous century, in the hope of preventing their future
occurrence, or at least dampening their detrimental effects on society. The
website's "events index" provides a comprehensive alphabetical list of the
nearly 25 "events" included in the archive--from "African Conflicts,"
Apartheid, the Armenian genocide, and the "Cambodian Killing Fields," through
the Holocaust and the struggles of "indigenous peoples," to the two World
Wars.
Admittedly, the strand tying all these "events" together--the issue of social
injustice, broadly conceived--is somewhat tenuous. And the categorization
scheme may be suspect. (What about "indigenous peoples" constitutes a set of
"events"?) Perhaps a better way of linking these various themes together is
under the even broader theme of remembrance, the complex "legacy" that gives
the project its name. According to the website, "the Legacy Project offers a
channel for mutual recognition across generations and geography. Through
scholarly research and innovative presentation, The Legacy Project will create
new--and shared--frameworks for cultural expressions of loss, drawn from
Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Our work will help define the language
of human loss--its forms, its symbols, its grammar... The Legacy Project seeks a
collective, retrospective reflection on the losses that constitute the legacy
of the last century."
The real value of the project--the genuine goal of active remembrance and
comparative historical study facilitated by the creation of a central archive
of various human injustices--is overshadowed by the quite ambitious but
nonetheless diffuse goal of defining "the language of human loss," a goal
arguably more akin to academic studies than to historical reality. The site
nonetheless admirably achieves its more modest goal of preserving the poems,
plays, speeches, films, historical commentary, and a host of other
reactions to
the tragedies that have defined our century and the prior one.
Unlike the more strictly historical mission of, say, the Zoryan Institute,
which carries out the important work of preserving the commentaries of
Genocide
survivors and legal and historical documents related to the event itself, the
Legacy Project preserves the reactions of the generations that succeeded them.
By doing so, it carries out the equally important work of archiving in one
place what would otherwise constitute a scattered series of footnotes, the
"secondary" memory of the historical events that record the shock
registered in
the minds and hearts of more than a century's worth of indirect witnesses. In
this sense, the website performs the much-needed function of commemorating the
act of commemoration itself--testimony to the enduring will of those who would
see the tragedies halted and continual fodder for all of us looking for a
viable answer to the question with which we began, "What now?"
The selections included on the site are nothing short of remarkable. As of
the
last viewing, the website includes virtual exhibitions of "Frank Stella, the
Polish Village Series;" "The "Art of Afterwards;" and a study of "Echoes of
the
Guernica." There is also a "Virtual Symposium" of Holocaust-related issues, as
well as the discussions of the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. The
site also includes a searchable database of the various literary, artistic and
film materials included on the site. Excerpts of the work of Armenian poet and
writer Peter Balakian are represented, as are the enigmatic and powerful
historico-philosophical ruminations of the German-Jewish cultural critic,
Walter Benjamin.
Despite the Legacy Project's sophistication and the breadth and depth of its
archives, there are nonetheless some glaring omissions in its website content.
A search for Atom Egoyan or his film, "Ararat," for instance, will return no
results. And there is a noticeable dearth of items about the Genocide more
generally. Luckily, the remedy is readily available. The website provides the
following email address for feedback and suggestions:
[email protected]. What better way to make one's voice heard while
helping transform the footnotes of the Genocide and other historical tragedies
into a growing archive that will survive the few weeks of their
commemoration?
Hovig Tchalian holds a PhD in English literature from UCLA. He has edited
several journals and also published articles of his own. You can reach him or
any of the other contributors to Critics' Forum at [email protected].
This and all other articles published in this series are available online at
<http://www.criticsforum.org/>www.critics forum.org. To sign up for a weekly
electronic version of new articles, go to
<http://www.criticsforum.org/join>www.cri ticsforum.org/join. Critics' Forum
is a
group created to discuss issues relating to Armenian art and culture in the
diaspora.
11) EIs: On the March Again
By Garen Yegparian
It's election time again and our good buddies, the Electoral Idiots (EIs)
have
ventured forth anew to wreak political ruin for our community. This time
around
the stakes are higher, not just city council seats, but a State Assembly seat;
in California; one of only 80; governing some 36 million people, almost 12.5%
of the US population.
For those not living in California's 43rd Assembly District, this may seem
remote, irrelevant, and possibly an outright waste of ink, but please, read
on.
You may come to change your mind since the issues arising in this race can
teach universal lessons. And see my recommendations for statewide elected
office and a smattering of other races.
Let's establish, affirmatively, what our community's goals should be in the
electoral realm. It will serve as a reference point for evaluating EI
behavior.
It seems simple and straightforward to me. We should develop interested,
talented people. We should advocate strong engagement with the broader host
communities we live in on the political level. We should break down
barriers to
civic/political participation by members of our community. We should put
forward for election those among us who have demonstrated competence and
integration, as the culmination of the individual's and our community's
efforts. We should actively dissuade those "not yet ready for prime time" from
running. We should not be held hostage to the facile argument of "support me
just because I'm Armenian." We should not tolerate those who run for office in
our name but are unwilling to heed our community's needs. We should penalize
those who act in ways detrimental to our interests.
The cast of EIs is somewhat different than last year. Some are back for a
return engagement, others are newbies. But what's ironic is that this time,
they're not even running for office. They're just acting as spoilers for
someone else. You gotta wonder what motivates some of these pathetic
creatures.
Is it money? Is it a moment of glory and visibility? Is it sheer
sniveling? Is
it the Homo Ottomanicus syndrome I've described? Is it hatred--of self or
competing organizations and people? No matter, the outcome is the same--our
community suffers.
Here's the scoop. In the 43rd, whoever wins the Democratic Primary on June 6
has the November election locked up--this thanks to the last round of
gerrymandering by the legislature. The 43rd is also home to the largest number
of Armenians of any Assembly District in California. This is one we should
truly have significant, if not determinant, sway over. This year, we even have
a competent Armenian candidate, Paul Krekorian, not an EI such as those who
played spoilers in Glendale's election last year. There is another
candidate in
the Democratic primary, Frank Quintero, along with one each on the Republican
and Libertarian slates. Not surprisingly, the contested Democratic primary is
generating some heat, but it has taken an ugly turn during the last few days.
The County Registrar of Voters has been sending out letters to some voters in
the 43rd requiring confirmation of their signature on the vote-by-mail (VBM)
request form they had submitted. It seems the Registrar didn't like the
signature; it wasn't close enough to the original. Here, let me share a story
from my experience. Last year, I registered all four members of a family, my
neighbors. When the time came to vote, they opted to VBM. Two of the four had
no problems. One was able to vote, but only after extended discussions--close
to two hours, via telephone, with the Registrar's office, with me. The other
had to report to the City Clerk's office to be able to vote. Why? The
Registrar
didn't like the signature--not on the VBM form, but the original voter
registration! Who gave these people the right to dictate what someone's
signature ought to look like? You can see that the Registrar is not perfect.
Couple this with the understandable difficulty many employees have with our
names, and you've got a recipe for serious, ongoing headaches.
Quintero's campaign has taken the Registrar's queries, chosen to interpret
them as fraud, and promulgated this "finding" through a press conference on
the
steps of the Glendale post office. Among those in attendance and speaking
was a
bigot with a record of spewing anti-Armenian poison during Glendale City
Council meetings. This creature "rhetorically" asked if it wasn't illegal for
people to assist aging voters in their homes. Can you fathom the unmitigated
gall?
An Armenian organization noted for its virtual non-existence was also on
display and spoke its piece. This show generated a lot of media coverage, the
same media that was virtually silent (LA Times, Daily News, Burbank Leader) or
favoring Quintero (Glendale News Press) through much of the campaign. Of
course
our EIs have chimed in, amplifying Quintero's spurious accusations through
their organizations, TV shows, and plain old word of mouth. Have they no
shame?
Some of these Armenians may have legitimate PERSONAL concerns and
interests in
supporting Quintero. These could and should be quietly, discretely pursued.
Most do not have even this excuse at their disposal. But duplicitously
attempting to transform such concerns into our community's interests is the
height of arrogance and selfishness. For example, the chair of the Armenia
Fund
has no business supporting Quintero when the bulk of our community is behind
Krekorian. This demonstrates poor judgment that reflects poorly on and damages
the credibility of a valuable institution we need to support our homeland.
Organizations that have little or no support in the community are using this
as an opportunity to promote themselves, hoping that if Quintero wins, the
crumbs he'll toss their way will allow them to gain standing among Armenians.
This latter class of people--better yet slugs--are those who would've sided
with the Turks during the Genocide, as a friend poignantly observed.
Quintero is fortunate to have these slugs at his disposal. They seem willing
to do anything to divide our community and weaken it--whether now, during
Genocide commemorations, or last year's elections. Krekorian's campaign has
registered over 1500 new voters and helped thousands new to the voting process
navigate their way through it. Naturally this scares an opponent. It seems to
have driven him to the world of slime, and who better to provide it than our
community's slugs?
Over the next few days as these slugs "march" on, poisoning the atmosphere,
ask them what, why, when, how, who. When they holler "fraud," ask them
according to whom? Has the (faulty) Registrar said so? On what grounds? Has
this case been prosecuted? Who's been found guilty by what court? Just poke a
thousand holes in their arguments, it's not difficult, particularly when it's
on one of the numerous call-in shows serving our community. Remember, this is
about electing the most competent, decent, and forthcoming candidate, Paul
Krekorian. Imagine what we can expect of a candidate who resorts to such slimy
tactics during his campaign once he's elected? It does not become you, Mr.
Quintero.
Be sure to vote. Be sure to vote for Paul Krekorian if you're in the
district.
And take a look at my other picks in the accompanying box. I've only selected
names when more than one person is running in a given party's primary. I won't
pretend to explain my choices of candidates. It's far too messy for such a
small space. Regarding Propositions 81 and 82, both introduce long needed
programs, and the latter also has the added benefit of making the wealthiest
among us pay their fair share.
BALLOT MEASURES
Proposition 81: Yes
Proposition 82: Yes
GOVERNOR
Phil Angelides (Democratic)
Arnold Schwarzenegger (Republican)
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
Jackie Speier (Democratic)
Tom McClintock (Republican)
SECRETARY OF STATE
Debra Bowen (Democratic)
CONTROLLER
Joe Dunne (Democratic)
Abel Maldonado (Republican)
TREASURER
Keith S. Richman (Republican)
ATTORNEY GENERAL
Jerry Brown (Democratic)
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER
Cruz Bustamante (Democratic)
SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
Jack T. O'Connell (Nonpartisan race)
SENATE DISTRICT 20
Cindy Montanez (Democratic)
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 44
Anthony Portantino (Democratic)
12) JUNE 6 ELECTION: CHOOSE, BUT CHOOSE WISELY!
By SKEPTIK SINIKIAN
Every time it's Spring in Los Angeles it seems as though people act stranger
than usual. Maybe it's the warm weather or hormones. Or maybe it's just the
fact that I live in Glendale and the upcoming June primary elections are
driving everyone nuts. I'm going to delve into this topic because I feel it's
important that someone knows what's going on in their community, particularly
when it comes to politics.
To most Armenians, discussing politics means sitting in a backyard at a
family
barbecue and discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflicts and tying that in to
vague recollections of the civil war in Lebanon or remembering where they were
when Khrushchev banged his shoe on the lectern at the UN or when the US
Embassy
was taken over in Iran. Don't act like you've never been part of any of these
conversations! I don't even go to that many family barbecues and I've
overheard
more of these conversations than I'd care to remember.
What amazes me the most however, is that whenever it comes to politics in
America, domestic issues, Armenians are overall very apathetic. Unless a
decision made in Congress raises the luxury tax on BMWs or Mercedes Benzes,
they'd rather not vote or be involved. But over the last six years, this has
changed in areas like Southern California and most visibly in Glendale where
practically 8 of the city's 15 elected officials are Armenian. There's even an
elected clerk and most people can't tell me what a clerk's responsibilities
are! Even stranger was that three or four Armenians ran for that job!
It seems as though insanity ensues whenever these elections roll around, be
they in April or June. Lawn signs pop up in the most random places which make
you wonder who in the world climbed up to the side of that hill to place it
there and who did they think would see it or be impressed by it. "Look honey,
the coyotes have endorsed Hovik Hovikian for Ombudsman of Glendale!" My
favorite is the Armenian grocery stores that will try to appeal to everyone by
putting up everyone's signs as though to say "We have no principles, we just
want your money! Our lahmajunes love EVERYONE!!" I'd bet some of these places
are the same ones that sell Turkish products instead of Armenian ones.
So what does this mean for our community? Well, for one thing, there are a
few
important races involving Armenians on the state level. And no, it's not
Senator Poochigian's bid for the Republican nomination for Attorney General.
He's running virtually unopposed and will run away with the nomination.
There's
a race in Anaheim/Yorba Linda (President Richard Nixon's old stomping grounds)
in which an Armenian-American, Marty Simonoff is vying for the Republican
nomination. He's been active in the community and quite outspoken. Good guy
and
deserves any support the Armenians in Orange County and Montebello can give
him. But the real battle royale is taking place in Glendale in the 43rd
Assembly District where the election has gotten uglier than one of Michael
Jackson's passport photos.
Why has it gotten so ugly? Well, for one, Latino leaders see this seat as
belonging to a Latino candidate even though Armenians outnumber Latinos in
Glendale. The other reason is because one of the candidates, Glendale
councilman Frank Quintero, has been using a handful of clueless Armenian to
bolster his involvement in the Armenian community. That's all fine and dandy
but when the opponent is an activist leader in the Armenian community like
School Board President Paul Krekorian, then there is virtually no comparison.
Krekorian is leading the race by many accounts--support amongst the Democratic
party faithful, various polling, and general likeability. At one point he was
even leading in money, but because some of our community members are more
interested in their bank accounts than advancing the general public's
interest,
Quintero has raised over $100,000 from Armenian developers, banquet hall
owners, and other business owners. Here's the list of folks that looks like
the
menu at the Chicken Ranch in Texas. (That's a brothel and yes I'm making that
connection) Look at the names for yourself if you don't believe me.
www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/lookup. php?committee=1279156
This is an interesting site and you might even be interested to see who some
our "community leaders" are looking out for our interests. Krekorian has
worked
his tail off for the Armenian-American students in Burbank and being a leading
voice in the Democratic party in California when few other individuals were
doing that. Quintero has been in a few marches and says "parev" on TV and some
Armenians are ready to name their newborn daughter Frankush. It's insane and
doesn't make sense.
The election is June 6 and if you don't think that this is important than
read
the following article from Capitol Weekly--a Sacramento inside publication
that
tracks races. www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id =743
So vote! Make your voice heard! Because if the right guy for the job (that
would be Krekorian for my slower readers) doesn't win on June 6... well, let's
just say that opportunities like this one don't grow on trees. I just hope
that
the Quintero donors realize their mistakes before it's too late.
All of this election insanity and the Armenian community reminded me of the
following anecdote. One day while campaigning against Dwight Eisenhower during
the 1952 presidential election, Adlai Stevenson was approached by a female
admirer. "Governor," she enthused, "every thinking person will be voting for
you." "Madam, that is not enough," Stevenson replied. "I need a majority!"
So tell your family. Tell your friends. Get out and vote. Because on June 6,
being smart or committed is not enough. We need a majority!
Skeptik Sinikian urges everyone go out and vote on June 6 and make the wise
choice. If you disagree with Skeptik, you can reach him at
[email protected] or visit his blog at
<http://www.sinikian.blogspot.com/>www.si nikian.blogspot.com.
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