Adam Krikorian Prepares Women's National Water Polo Team for an Olympic Victory

By Lara Kuyumjian
Lara88.Bruin@ucla.edu

He has won a total of 14 national championships and titles as player, assistant coach, and head coach of the UCLA Water Polo team. He is currently the head coach of the United States’ Women’s National Water Polo team, busy preparing his team for victory for the upcoming 2012 Olympics, set to take place in London, England. He is Adam Krikorian…

Born on July 22, 1974, Krikorian spent his childhood in Mountain View, a city in northern California. Coming from a family of five, Krikorian states that his parents instilled in him a tremendous pride for being Armenian. “Even the license plate of the family car is HYEFIVE,” Krikorian smiles and states. He recalls attending St. Andrew Armenian Church in Cupertino as a child, saying, “Going to church every Sunday with my family instilled a lot of values in me. I’ll never forget those Armenian picnics – great food and playing soccer with other kids my age.”

A water polo and swimming champion of Mountain View High School, Krikorian scored a total of 113 goals during his senior year alone! He was then accepted for admission to UCLA right out of high school, and joined UCLA’s water polo team. “UCLA, Cal, and Stanford were my choices – but I chose UCLA. There was something about this place that was special. The people involved are humble people who are great to be around,” Krikorian explains.

Another big reason for Krikorian’s decision to join the Bruin family, was the fact that the captain of UCLA’s water polo team was an Armenian – Matt Emerzian. “We instantly became friends and bonded just because we were both Armenian,” he states.

Krikorian describes his experiences and time spent at UCLA as “incredible and amazing… I made some great friends.” He continued to play water polo at UCLA from 1992 till 1995, and won a national championship as captain of the team during his senior year. “It was the first national championship since 1972… a 23-year-long drought. But since then, our men’s and women’s teams have combined to win a total of 16 national championships!” Krikorian proudly exclaims.

As soon as he graduated, Krikorian was offered the position of assistant coach for the men’s water polo team, and later for the women’s team as well, both of which he gladly accepted. “During my first year of assistant coach, our team had one of the worst years. I think that’s what drove me in and kept me here. I saw something that was broken and could be built with dedication and hard work,” Krikorian explains.

That “dedication and hard work” worked! His team won 14 national championships – 10 while he was head coach and 3 while he was assistant coach. Krikorian was given the water polo Coach of the Year award numerous times, in 2001, 2004, 2004, 2005, and 2007! UCLA’s 100th NCAA championship was achieved by the women’s water polo team under the coaching of Krikorian in 2007 – the first university to accomplish that milestone in history! And in 2009, he was named NCAA Division I Coach of the Year for the sixth time by the Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches (ACWPC).

Being the head coach of both the men’s and women’s team at UCLA at the mere age of 24 is a feat in of itself. “When you’re at UCLA coaching, you’re expected to win. I was scared at first, but I knew I was blessed to have this opportunity. My parents instilled a good work ethic and always told me to never give up. My brothers beat me up when I was a kid so I was tough!” he adds.

“The best part of my job is working in a campus I love, with people I respect. And hearing Armenian people randomly cheering in the stands and yelling ‘Hey Armo’ is one of the many perks…” he adds.

Krikorian, however, demoted himself to assistant coach of UCLA’s men’s team when he became the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National water polo team. “It was one of the toughest decisions in my life. But there’s nothing bigger and more important than representing your country. It’s a feeling beyond imaginable,” he explains.

With Krikorian as the head coach, the U.S. national team is currently ranked #1 in the world. He coached the team to victory, earning the gold medal at the World Championships in Rome, Italy on July 31, 2009. “We’re off to a great start! It’ll definitely be an exciting tournament at the Olympics in London in 2012. We’re taking on the world!” Krikorian declares.

His coaching follows his theory of the 3 W’s: Work ethic, Willingness to learn, and Wanting to compete and win… Krikorian’s 3 W’s theory combined with his extensive training program will surely prepare his team to victory. “Training includes 3 hours of conditioning in the morning, then lifting weights for about an hour, and finally, about 2.5 to 3 hours of tactic-oriented practice,” he explains.

But, according to Krikorian, all of this pales in comparison to his current obstacle in life: having his 8-month-old daughter potty-trained. “Now that’s the real challenge in life,” he jokes.

Founders’ Note:

By: GK and Shahane Arayi

Hip-hop music originated at block parties in New York City where the likes of DJ Kool Herc bumped tunes through their systems and the attendees made donations at the entrance. We, at the Armenian Chronicles, have used the same methodology to fund this paper for years. This

particular issue was funded with a ‘block party’ in Pasadena on March 5, 2010. Consider this a small thank you to all those who supported us.

Thank you Shotgun Entertainment for always assisting us with events. Shotgun’s next party, Spring Fling, will take place on March 20 at the Minx in Glendale.

Thank you R-Mean for your continued support and performance at the party. R-Mean’s new “Nah Mean” mixtape vol. 1 will be out in the first week of April. You can get your copy on Itunes and selected stores in the Los Angeles area.

Thank you SakoSan Photography for all the amazing fliers and support. Check out www.SakoSan.com.

Thank you HD Magic for entertainment, no Armenian Chronicles fundraiser is complete without you.

Thank you DJ Yaman and Franky Flow. Your mix of hip-hop, Arabic, and Armenian music made March 5th complete.

We appreciate all the support!

~The G and Shah~

"We Remember": Armenians Aid in Haiti Relief Efforts

By Lara Injeyan
Koukla129@yahoo.com

The cries of frightened children, the debris of dilapidated homes and buildings, the shrieks of loved ones desperately trying to find one another, and the rush of injured civilians seeking medical help are some of the hardships the world has recently witnessed the nation of Haiti experience after the major 7.0MW earthquake hit the island on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. Although the nations of the world united in sending out various forms of aid and relief, the earthquake particularly struck a chord in the hearts of Armenia and its people living both on the motherland and in the Diaspora; they were reminded of a comparable national disaster in Armenia which took thousands of innocent lives on the morning of December 7, 1988.

Having firsthand experience and being fully aware of the amount of damage an earthquake of such magnitude can cause on a nation and its people, Armenians all around the world have actively joined in the Haiti relief effort. Dr. Alina Dorian, the director of the UCLA Center of Public Health and Disasters, made an important point about Haiti’s earthquake in an interview aired by the Armenian channel Horizon. “While the magnitude of this type of earthquake has been seen before, Haiti has started in the worst place - meaning it was more underdeveloped than you can imagine. And to have this kind of disaster hit Haiti, it throws everything out of proportion and the nation becomes overwhelmed…” Dorian states.

Just as the 1988 Spitak earthquake was detrimental to Armenia and took years to recover from, it will take many years for Haiti to reach its pre-earthquake condition and state of stability. Aware of this reality, Armenian organizations such as the Ararat Chapter of Homenetmen in Glendale organized shoe drives until January 31, 2010, gathering shoes which were later sent through Sports Chalet Stores to Soles4Souls to Haiti to protect civilian feet from stepping in harmful debris.

The Armenian National Committee has also commended the Armenian government for sending out a 52-member rescue team assembled after the Spitak earthquake; this team is enlisted with highly trained specialists, search dogs, and rescue equipment. The ANC has encouraged the Armenian community to send donations to the rescue team so that they will be able to make a significant difference and better the situation in any way possible.

As an Armenian student at UCLA, I am proud of the amount of compassion and empathy our people have shown both in Armenia and in the Diaspora. Just at UCLA alone, the Armenian Alpha Gama Alpha sorority and the Alpha Epsilon Omega fraternity have contributed to the Haiti relief by donating money. Having a nation whose history books are unfortunately colored with national hardships, disasters, and genocide, we have felt the pain of a crying nation on our own skin, and are willing to do what we can to relieve others of their own in a time of need.

Al Pacino Portrays Dr. Jack Kevorkian in "Dr. Death"

By Mary Kandaharian
Kandaharian88@ucla.edu

Oscar winner Al Pacino, renowned for his method acting, was chosen to portray the younger Dr. Kevorkian in the HBO movie “You Don’t Know Jack.” Dr. Jack Kevorkian, dubbed “Dr. Death” or “Jack the Dripper,” was an enigmatic pathologist who was responsible for assisting more than 130 suicides with his “mercy machine.” He publicly championed a terminal patient’s right to die via physician-assisted suicide. Dr. Kevorkian called this Mercy killing, but the jury called it “second degree murder.”

In 1998, Dr. Kevorkian videotaped the euthanasia procedure of Thomas Youk, a 52 year old man suffering from Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and broadcasted the process on “60 Minutes.” He was convicted with second-degree murder and sentenced to 10-25 years in prison.

When asked about the movie’s title by Los Angeles Times editor, Joy Press, Pacino insisted that it is apt, “because you don’t know this guy. Hopefully, in the movie, you still don’t. He is more than meets the eye, and that’s part of the appeal for us… It’s a portrait of a zealot I don’t think we see that often.”

Al Pacino alongside a cast consisting of Susan Sarandon, John Goodman, Danny Huston, and Hollywood director Barry Levinson will portray a film about the infamous “Mercy Machine” and spark a heated debate about how the elderly and disabled are treated. The biopic is loosely based on the 2006 released book “Between the Dying and the Dead: Dr. Jack Kevorkian’s Life and the Battle to Legalize Euthanasia” by authors Neal Nicol and Harry Wylie.

Goodman will play one of Kevorkian’s friends and co-workers, whose medical training as a corpsman and laboratory technician enabled him to assist Kevorkian on many occasions, while his laboratory supply company often provided materials for Kevorkian’s efforts. Meanwhile, Susan Sarandon will play Hemlock Society activist Janet Good who becomes one of Jack’s greatest supporters, working side by side with him to make humane suicide available to the terminally ill and suffering. After she is herself diagnosed with terminal cancer, she avails herself of Kevorkian’s services, choosing her own time to die, surrounded by her friends and loved ones.

Dr. Kevorkian was released from a Michigan maximum-security prison in 2007 with a parole pledge that he never kill again. He was released in eight years as opposed to the 25 years due to good behavior. In the First News conference since his release from prison, Dr. Kevorkian stated, “I will now concentrate on educating people on their rights.” Bear in mind that thus far, the only state to have legalized physician-assisted suicide is Oregon.

As part of his parole, he can’t help with assisted suicide or talk about how it’s done. Dr. Kevorkian commented saying, “There’s your freedom of speech, the first amendment. I can’t talk about the procedure. Why? I’m afraid of going to prison.”

Los Angeles Times writer Joy Press proclaimed, “When he agreed to play Jack Kevorkian in the HBO movie ‘You Don’t Know Jack,’ Al Pacino was not just taking on a living person who is familiar to many of us from the nightly news. He was also slipping into the skin of one of the most controversial figures of our era.” The movie "You Don't Know Jack" is scheduled to premiere on HBO this spring.

Healthy Bruins

By Emily Bagdasarian
Emilyme52001@yahoo.com

There seems to be a contagious rumor circulating… a rumor exhibiting the most common of symptoms, for it is grossly false and feeds on a prevailing negative stereotype. It is the rumor of the over-competitive, cutthroat, pre-medicine undergraduate. As early as high school, I recall hearing horror stories of “pre-meds” who will go to any length to sabotage the chances of others for that most coveted of goahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifls: Medical School. The truth is, pre-medicine is mentally and emotionally taxing; we pre-meds often go to great lengths to stick together and support one another.

Consider, for example, one group of four lovely room-mates who, over a lunch period, came to the realization that their lives would have been much easier if they knew during their freshmen year at UCLA what they know now. Elizabeth Grigorian, Marie Hovsepian, Mary Kandaharian, and Nareh Keshishyan immediately set out to offer to other pre-health students the very guidance which was missing from their own experience.

“Healthy Bruins,” a collaborative, peer-mentorship organization was officially established on campus November 7, 2009, with the express purpose of assisting other pre-health students succeed. Fourth year founder Mary Kandaharian explained, “We pulled all the resources each of us acquired over the years at UCLA and started to find ways to present it to students that would be the most helpful and practical.”

Among these resources include a thorough test bank, as well as knowledge of professors, counselors, and volunteer opportunities. The founders hope to transfer such information to the younger members through one-on-one mentoring and general meetings. Meetings began Winter Quarter of 2010, and all UCLA pre-health students are welcome, not simply those involved within the Armenian community.

It is true that the journey to medical school may be fraught with some competition and stress. However, in reality, ample opportunities exist to alleviate any struggles involved with the process. Healthy Bruins co-founder Nareh Keshishyan said it best when she suggested, “At the end of the day, you can have all the resources you need, but you need to take the effort to use them.”

UCLA ASA Wins All-ASA Quiz Bowl

By Lara Kuyumjian
Lara88.Bruin@ucla.edu

On Sunday, February 21, 2010, UCLA’s Armenian Students’ Association won the annual All-ASA Quiz Bowl for the third year in a row! With Occidental College’s ASA ranking second place and UC-Irvine’s ASA ranking third, it was surely a competition filled with excitement. Enthusiastic fans from all the participating schools were found present, cheering on their friends and family.

UCLA ASA’s president Abraham Barsegyan was elated with the quiz bowl results, saying, “It feels great winning. I’m really proud of our team; they did an amazing job.” The winning team’s participants included Jano Boghossian, Armen Manuk-Khaloyan, Alexan Yerevanian, Lara Kuyumjian, Editt Nikoyan, and Teny Rebecca Akay.

The captain of the UCLA ASA team asserts, “It was great to have our three-peat win on our own campus with many supporters cheering us on. I enjoyed the competitive spirit from every ASA, and we hope to continue our winning streak to four next year.” God’s speed!

A Cross-Boundary Discourse: The AGSA Colloquium

By Jano Boghossian
Janoboghossian@ucla.edu

The Armenian Graduate Students’ Association held its eighth annual Colloquium on Armenian Studies on Friday, February 19, 2010 in Royce Hall 314. The presenters this year were invited from Italy, Poland, Armenia, and Turkey to present their papers on a wide variety of topics. The first session was on Armeno-Turkish literary ties, with two Turkish scholars presenting the issues of comparative literature between the two nations, as well as the narrativization of the Genocide in Turkey. The remaining sessions included discussions on history, linguistics, comparative literature, theology, anthropology, and art history.

Doris Melkonian, a doctoral student in Social Research Methodology in Education, was one of the organizers of the event. She described this year’s colloquium as “the best colloquium we’ve had in terms of the quality of the papers, the high turnout, and the level of audience engagement and enthusiasm.” Following each session, there was a discussion between the panelists and the audience.

Melkonian said they have always had international speakers presenting at the annual colloquium, and the first time a Turkish student presented was in 2008.

Alaettin Carikci, who was present at the 2008 colloquium said, “Every year, I feel that both the quality of the presenters and the level of organization develop, and that the interdisciplinary aspect of the articles increases. This multi-disciplinary framework helps young scholars like me establish networks and relationships with other scholars from other disciplines. I am glad to see that bilateral cultural exchange between Armenians and Turks are developing as a result of this colloquium.”

The Graduate Student Colloquium in Armenian Studies provides a forum for students interested in the field to engage with scholars already researching in the area to further their depth and interest in Armenian Studies.

Armenian Language Classes Face the Possibility of Termination

By Garo Chirishian
Chirishian88@ucla.edu

Language courses are important avenues for UCLA students to remain competitive in an increasingly global economy. However, due to our economy’s severe financial crisis, the University of California has suffered many budget cuts, validating speculation about the possibility of completely terminating the Armenian language classes taught at UCLA. This is a subject that should not be taken lightly, and students must take immediate action.

Armenian language classes contribute to a practical curriculum at UCLA – when taking into account that the second highest concentration of Armenians (outside of Armenia) resides in the greater Los Angeles area. Anahid Keshishian, Professor of Eastern Armenian Language Studies at UCLA, believes that a city like Los Angeles, which carries a vast population of diverse cultures, should not even think about eliminating language classes. “These classes bring cultures and people together in a cosmopolitan society such as ours,” Keshishian states.

Many firmly believe that it is important to preserve one’s native language and having instructional courses and classes at UCLA which help facilitate this process is a resource that should not be endangered because of budget cuts. Cinthia Flores, President of the Undergraduate Student Association, says, “Retaining these types of language courses are important to the communities that speak them, especially since these kinds of courses enrich the academic experience at UCLA. I believe that eliminating these courses from the UCLA curriculum will negatively affect the diversity of courses at UCLA and lower the standard of education of UCLA.”

Hagop Kouloujian, Professor of Western Armenian Language Studies at UCLA, states, “The Armenian language is the second minority language spoken in Los Angeles, it would be unreasonable for UCLA to throw away a robust Armenian Studies program. From the students’ viewpoint, it is a major opportunity to learn or improve their skills in their heritage language or to learn about significant thinkers and works in Armenian.”

These faculty members are pursuing academic opportunities that are advantageous to both the faculty and the students. USAC President Cinthia Flores has been working with the Academic Affairs Commissioner to help minimize the number of courses that have been eliminated due to budget cuts. Additionally, both Professor Keshishian and Professor Kouloujian have had meetings with their department and also the Dean of Humanities to voice their opinions.

A report by the Humanities Task Force has been comprised, concerning a possible reorganization of the Humanities department which could possibly save many classes and activities through the reengineering of processes. However, this proposal is still premature.

Richard Hovannisian, Professor of Armenian and Near Eastern History at UCLA and current holder of the Armenian Educational Foundation Chair in Modern Armenian History, is optimistic that these courses are going to continue. He states, “In any case, we have to presume as an Armenian student organization that talk about termination is serious and that commensurate action is required. This means making our sentiments known to the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures as well as to the University administration.”

Despite all of this, Peter Cowe, Professor of Armenian Language and Culture at UCLA, remains hopeful. He states, “My conviction is that classes will go ahead as normal. Even if the usual funding source is unable to continue its support next year, there are other reserve funds that can be tapped into, and a spring fundraising that will hopefully help tide us over the next academic session.”

Nonetheless, students should take an active role in inquiring as to what is occurring and make their views known to the relevant deans and departments. In the words of Professor Hovannisian, “Learning the Armenian language is important not only for connecting with one’s culture and traditions, but it also serves as the basis for any serious research in Armenian studies. If such cuts do take place, this would be a crippling blow to our program.”

Editor's Note: Just recently, thanks to funding and major support from many, UCLA's Armenian language studies and classes will no longer be cut! Thank you to all who helped and fought for this cause.

Victoria's Chronicles

My dress was hanging loosely around my hips while I tried to my make my way through the crowded line. It had felt like I was in solitude for the past four months - without food, water, light, or people. As I made my way towards the bar, I realized that there certainly were plenty of fish. I was back on the meet market and looking for a quick score.

Five minutes in, a second year law student hounded me down; I was single, he was cute, and that was all I needed. For the past year or so, I was going through my life with blinders, shielding me from the world that I once believed to have as my oyster. I found myself in love with a fantasy, desperately trying to make it a reality. After weeks of being bedridden with tears and copious amounts of Marlboro lights, I was ready to face the post-Bond world. It all started when we decided to take the next step in our relationship. Moving in with Bond seemed like the right thing to do. I was in love, my apartment lease was coming up, and having the beach in my front yard was too tempting.

It all started with me looking for one of my one too many shoes, when an odd-looking box grabbed my attention. It was buried deep in the closet, neatly placed next to his Hugo Boss loafers. My search was interrupted by the ping of my Blackberry; it was him texting to say he would not be home for dinner. Things were going great with him, or so I thought. I had slowly been molded into a Bond girl, sans the ability of firing a gun or disarming a bomb.

As I looked up from the closet floor, I caught my reflection in the closet mirror and to my horror, I didn’t know who was looking back at me. There in front of me was a life that I had no idea about… a life that the man I was in love with had, a life that was his reality. I opened Pandora’s Box and picked up one of the letters and read it. “*****, I am forwarding you a copy of the reception details. I can’t wait to finally be your wife and have you in London. 4 more months!” The letter was post marked last week. Bond was engaged. I turned back to the box and knew what I had to do.

As I pulled into my parent’s driveway with my entire life packed in the trunk, I had no idea where I was going, what I was doing, or what I was going to say. I crawled into the guest room bed and fell asleep. I woke up to the summer sun beating down on my face. I felt like I had just gone through a battle and the heat was not helping my aching body. I walked into the kitchen to find my mom drinking her morning coffee. I asked, “Do you want to take a trip?”

Four nights of too much wine, rich food, flamboyant men, excessive shopping, and a haircut by Ms. Divine later, I returned back to L.A. and hit the meet market. With a not so clean track record of dating the odars, I decided to give the Armenian thing a chance… which brought me to this Los Angeles hot spot filled with possibilities.

As this crazy law student tried to woo me with his boyish charms, I came to learn that he was third generation born and raised in the states, 23, and had what seemed like ADD. Two weeks in the little short-lived affair, I was desperately avoiding calls, texts, bbms, video chat requests, facebook messages, and all other means of contact. My rebound had turned into the boy who has no sense of what it means to give space. 30 missed calls and 10 “I’m just not that into you” texts later, he got the message.

Having stepped back into the dating world, I had forgotten all the types of men that are out there. With crazy law student thrown back in the sea, I found myself loving being single… being just me. That’s when I had the thought, why not date myself? Instead of cooking for a man, I cooked for myself, instead of getting dolled up for a night out with the beau, I was getting dolled up for a night with me. Instead of what he wanted/liked/needed, I satisfied my own desires. As the weeks passed by, I came to realize that I was becoming more content, at ease, and for once my life was starting to fall into place.

It had been two months since the day I had walked out of the Bond’s life when he came emailing into mine. “I’m sorry. I want to get together and talk.” Talk? I did what I knew was best for me. What I knew I had to do for myself. I stopped any further contact with a final message:

“With the New Year among us I want to have a fresh start. I have nothing left to say to you and nothing left to hear. I don’t need your apologies or your closure. You fucked up.” I clicked send and turned off my laptop. And just like that, I officially released myself. After what had seemed like a lifetime, I am back in the game. I don’t know who my players are going to be, but I sure hope they can keep up.

The “Other” Type of Armenian: A Story from Israel

By Tina Atamian
Tinaatamian@ucla.edu

Armenians love to classify themselves into subgroups – “Are you Parskahye? Hayastantsi? Beirutsi?” – But what if you don’t fit into any of those classifications? Every time I explain to a peer that I am a “Yeroosaghemtsi,” (yes, I know that’s a mouthful), I almost always get the same disgruntled expression. In case you’re wondering, I am an Armenian from Jerusalem – and here’s my untold story.

I was born in Jerusalem, Israel - the holiest city in the world. I was lucky enough to visit my birthplace after being away from Israel for almost fourteen years. As cliché as this sounds, the three weeks I spent traveling all of Israel filled a void within me that I didn’t even know was there to begin with.

This personal piece isn’t about boasting where I’m from or debating what type of Armenian is better. Instead, I want to open readers’ minds to the world they have not been taught about in Armenian History class, the places they should see as true Armenians before they die, and to learn about how much culture Armenians continue to leave behind within Israel.

My grandmother (R.I.P.) had a house within the Armenian Convent found on Mount Zion in Old City, Jerusalem. This community of Armenians living within the 900-year-old quarter resides next to the Jewish and Muslim quarters, and has provided a sanctuary for Armenians who were exiled during the Genocide of 1915. It has been a home for Armenians who lack support from family and friends. Neighbors living near one another know each other by name, borrow herbs and spices from one another, and live as a microcosm of Armenians outside of Armenia.

Behind the convent, through a heavy metal door is the community’s cemetery – which was my favorite place to visit, not only because my grandparents are buried there, but because of the history that is entrenched within those walls. Walking through pillars of grape vines and alongside a narrow corridor, one can spot the grave of a previous patriarch from the 17th century! Every Saturday after the melodic sounds of the church bells ring, one can see family members of the convent walking towards the cemetery to pay their respects to their ancestors.

I could write an endless journal of the stories and adventures I’ve had within the walls of the Convent as a child, but this article’s limited. Instead, if you, the reader, will have the opportunity to someday visit Jerusalem in the future, there are three places I insist you visit. The first would be the Jordan River. Not because it is the typical touristic sight, but for a much more important, and almost less noticed reason. At the entrance of the sight, there are panels all alongside the main building found in front of the river. The first panel, out of almost 30 panels written in different languages, is none other than the most beautifully articulated and calligraphic sentences written in Armenian. I stood and smiled.

I had the opportunity to visit Armenian churches and cathedrals found around Israel with the Archbishop of the Armenian Church. The Holy Sepulchre Church - where Jesus is buried, The Church of Mary Magdalene on the top of Mount Zion, and Tabgha Church, were three of my favorite landmarks. Within each church there is the Roman, the Greek, and the Armenian sector. As biased as my opinion might be, the most ornately decorated and well-kept parts of the church belong to the Armenians. Visit these sights, and you’ll agree.

I didn’t write this piece to convert non-believers and send peers to Israel on pilgrimages. Those who know me also know that I am not presently the most religious person. But what I do value is the importance of religion and Christianity within our Armenian heritage and culture. I value how religion has kept our community together and has helped us preserve our poems, songs, fables, and other forms of beautiful literature. Armenians have worked consistently at preserving the Armenian presence within Jerusalem today, and visiting these sites makes me proud to say that I am an Armenian from Israel.

I urge those who view Israel as a predominantly Jewish nation, to reconsider how much Armenian ancestral history we have there. Most importantly, by reading this, I want one more Armenian out there to learn something their Armenian history teachers should have spent a little more time teaching in their 8th grade classes.

Nightmare

By Alex Minassians
Alexminassians@gmail.com

Nights are dark
Can not see own hands.
Days pass,
Moon expands.
Vision heightens,
Eye-sight widens.
Cold creeps under skin,
Heart pumping, maintaining warmth within.
Moon filling now
Hear voices in head.
First of man then of beast,
Thirst for blood increased.
Full moon now,
One voice remains.
Howling in mind,
Prickling of veins.
Humanity gone,
Morality set aside.
Killer instinct remains,
Motivating beast let outside.
Morning comes,
Wake in bed.
Look left and right,
And ahead.
Mirror reflects,
See a face.
Face of one, who’s
Dreams make heart race.

Woven with History

By Richard Davitian
Bruinboy88@ucla.edu

You have heard of Oriental rugs and Persian rugs, but what about Armenian rugs? If there is one thing that truly defines the art and workmanship of the Armenian people, it is our rugs. Armenian oriental rugs have been praised for their beauty and exquisite quality for centuries, but when it comes to the background and history of the rugs, little is known by most Armenians.

Like Iran, Turkey, and even India, Armenia has a long history of being a producer of oriental rugs and carpets. Its artifacts were praised for their beauty and were traded in different parts of the world, some of which can now be found preserved in museums all over the world. Numerous observers and historians have recognized the beauty of Armenian rugs, and have acknowledged the Armenian people as playing a vital role in the development of rug-making as art.

The rugs were known for their distinct red color which came from a special dye. The dye was extracted from an insect called ordan, which is found in the Mount Ararat valley. The various blue, yellow, beige, and brown colors were made from different plants and flowers.

Armenian rugs contain special structural components, motifs, symbols, colors, and inscriptions. They offer insight into the history of the Armenians and the other cultures they came in contact with. Symbols that often appear on the rugs include the dragon and the cross.

One characteristic feature of the Armenian rugs is the illustration of a medallion in the center. This represents the sun as the source of life. Birds can also be found around the medallion. Other symbols depict different forms of nature and various weapons.

A very famous symbol found on the rugs is the snake. Based on snake/serpent symbol, the Armenian rugs were called dragon-rugs. Many rugs also contain human figures and animal figures. The crosses and animal figures are similar to motifs found in Armenian manuscripts and churches. Therefore, they have a significant religious importance.

Armenian rugs can be seen in numerous European paintings. The rugs are also illustrated in Armenian historical writings, paintings, and manuscripts. Common Armenian rugs include the Kazak rugs, Karabagh rugs, Genje rugs, and Shirvan rugs.

In addition to being part of trade, Armenian rugs and carpets were a crucial part of domestic life. They were used in both homes and churches. Inside homes, they were used on the floor or wall and were regarded as a symbol and indicator of status and position. Rugs were also used in royal weddings and to honor certain individuals. Also, the rugs were sometimes used as dowry for women.

Armenian rug production had slowed down with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Production increased again with the help of the Armenian Diaspora. Many companies exist today, such as the Tufenkian Artisan Carpets with locations all around the world, which produce a variety of classic and luxurious rugs.

Today, Armenians all over the world seek to find and buy traditional Armenian oriental rugs. They buy them not only for pure aesthetics, but also to hold onto the Armenian culture and tradition of their ancestral country. By living with traditional Armenian rugs in our homes, the Armenian Diaspora is holding onto a little piece of their history and background.

More than Just Dance

By Tara Ekmekci
Tara.ekmekci.49@my.csun.edu

The dictionary says that passion is a strong and barely controllable emotion. Others would have a difficult time describing such a powerful word in just one sentence. Passion is the careful stroke of an artist’s brush while drawing. Passion is the look on a runner’s face while crossing the finish line, and the adrenaline running through a basketball player’s body while shooting the winning buzzer beater.

Passion is the look on a mother’s face when their child is on stage. Passion is the gentle movement of a dancer’s arm while performing. Passion is the look on an audience’s face while watching that dancer, as well as the expression on the dancer’s face moving gracefully to the rhythm of the music.

The Hamazkayin Nayiri Dance Ensemble is a group of highly enthusiastic and spirited Armenian individuals, teachers, and volunteers who dedicate their extra time and energy in putting together a dynamic dance performance every year. The key element in organizing such an event is passion. Eliminate the passion and hard work of every single dancer or participant, and such a lively performance would never present itself.

Passion for Armenian dance comes from the heart. All Armenians dancing to Armenian folk music feel a rush of Armenian pride. That pride, mixed with the zeal for dancing cultural dances in front of an audience, results in an incredible performance. Much heartfelt thanks goes out to Catherine Hairabedian and Ari Libaridian for their fervor in instructing and continuing to be a part of the Nayiri Dance Ensemble. This kind of involvement demonstrates our unity at its peak. Let us all make it a simple duty to find a way to give back to our Armenian community with integrity!

Dr. Ann Karagozian: U.S. Air Force and NASA Researcher Reflects on Her UCLA Days

By Christine Kojayan
Bruingirl0021@ucla.edu

“Three words that describe me fairly well are busy, committed, and thankful,” states UCLA professor Ann Karagozian. Karagozian attained a Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and a Masters and Ph.D. at Caltech in Mechanical Engineering. As a current UCLA faculty member, the department in which Karagozian works is the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department. Karagozian really enjoys working at UCLA, saying, “I am really committed to the idea of a public institution and public education; we have exceptionally bright students at UCLA.”

Professor Karagozian is a member of the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) and was the SAB Vice Chair from 2005 till 2009. She is currently chairing an SAB study on Future Launch Vehicle systems and previously chaired SAB studies on Air Vehicle Fuel Efficiency (2006) and on Persistence at Near Space Altitudes (2005). Prof. Karagozian has also chaired panels for the SAB dealing with sensor technologies for Hard and Deeply Buried Targets.

Karagozian is also a recipient of the Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service from the U.S. Air Force (2001), and is a member of Tau Beta Pi, Phi Beta Kappa, the Combustion Institute, the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She is also the current Chair-Elect of the American Physical Society/Division of Fluid Dynamics. At UCLA, she is the Vice Chair/Chair Elect of the Academic Senate, and is slated to serve as Chair of the Senate during 2010-11.

Karagozian believes that future engineers should have practical experience. “I worked a while when I was in college, part time during the school year, and full time during summer at the Hughes Aircraft company in Canoga Park,” she says. Karagozian feels that this and other experiences in industry and in consulting have been immensely valuable for her. She’s currently engaged with research for the Air Force and NASA, as well as the National Science Foundation.

Her favorite subjects in school were always math and science, especially math, but she also enjoyed English literature and U.S. history. Even as a high school student, Karagozian began taking engineering classes at UCLA, and had the opportunity to work with a professor who was teaching the class. “They had a program at UCLA where if you scored high enough on certain exams, you could take UCLA classes while you were still in high school. So I did that and took not only an engineering class, but also an Armenian Literature class in English with Professor Avedis Sanjian [now deceased].”

Upon hearing the name Prof. Richard Hovannisian, Karagozian mentions, “I was privileged to have been able to take an Armenian history class with Prof. Hovannisian, which was really great. In fact, one of my great aunts was interviewed a long time ago by a student from the UCLA Armenian Oral History project in our history department, and I have friends whose grandparents were also interviewed at the time,” referring to the History 107D course that is currently offered.

“My generation is typical of what Armenian-Americans were like in Los Angeles when I was growing up. Most of us had grandparents that were genocide survivors and parents that were born in the United States,” Karagozian explains. The number of Armenians grew in the states substantially during the 1970s through the 1990s, due to the civil war in Lebanon, the breakdown of the Soviet Union, as well as the Islamic Revolution in Iran. “When I was growing up attending public schools, none of my schoolmates knew who the Armenians were. Now, it is different,” Karagozian said. Currently an active member of the United Armenian Congregational church, Karagozian recalls attending Saturday Armenian language school as a child at a nearby church, St. James Armenian Church. “There were few, if any, Armenian day schools at the time,” she notes.

In her spare time, Karagozian enjoys gardening and reading, as well as spending time with her two kids and husband, who is also a researcher at UCLA. “I don’t know where I see myself in ten years, but there are opportunities that I have been given, and I thank God for them. I try to do my best with the opportunities I’m offered,” Karagozian states.

A New Beginning to the Armenian-Turkish Relationship

By Garegin Esmaili
Esmaili818@yahoo.com

In the last few months, I’ve been seeing many Armenians, especially here in the United States, finding it difficult to accept the Turkish-Armenian Protocol that was signed.

I want to share a point of view that I’ve come to accept after conversing with passionate Armenians, your everyday Turks, and scholarly historians. I find it difficult to accept Armenians pushing their point of view onto the world and rejecting all efforts of reconciliation by demanding Turkish acceptance of the Armenian Genocide.

Adolf Hitler committed horrific atrocities against the Jews, yet the world has long forgiven the German people and accepted a sole figure responsible for the extermination of the Jews. Talaat Pasha is that person for us Armenians.

In the time of World War I, Armenians had a population of a few million settled in cities across the east in what was then known as the Ottoman Empire. At the same time, there were the nomadic Kurds who were less in number, but were heavily armed. Talaat Pasha feared the Kurds who had a large arsenal of weapons; so he figured out a solution to defuse them and, at the same time, eliminate Christian Armenians, allowing him to be able to create a purely Islamic state. Basically, the Kurds were paid to carry-out the slaughter of Armenians.

In international courts, many eyewitnesses have indeed testified to witnessing the Turkish Gendarmes also taking part in the slaughter and raping of Armenian women. But the truth is, all the individuals involved in the massacres are now dead. Talaat Pasha was sentenced to death in Constantinople but escaped to Berlin, where Soghomon Tehlirian shot and assassinated him on a street in the Charlottenburg District of Berlin in the 1920’s.

Rejecting the Armenian Protocol today because Turkey will not accept the full terms and facts of the Armenian Genocide as we know, is an invalid argument. I think it is wrong for us to come in the way of collaborative work for long lasting peace and prosperity.

The Turkish-Armenian Protocol signed by both of our presidents last summer will undoubtedly revive the economy of the entire region as better chartered borders and communications will boost both Armenian exports into Turkey and Turkish imports into Armenia. The protocol also calls for a joint academic collaboration between universities and historians from both countries to research and publicize all aspects of the Genocide.

Last year a judge in California ruled in favor of Armenian’s claim against insurance companies to collect damages on properties lost during the genocide. However, the appellate court in an appeal denied the ruling, stating that the losses occurred during time of war. If we can gain credibility from high ranking sources from both sides, we can undeniably gain credibility in our own arguments.

I believe the Turkish people today are good people and that we can all create a much better world together. I hope that by writing this article, I am able to convince Armenians of this common goal that we should all share: to establish world peace through time.

Although Turkey has committed many faults and wrongdoings today and yesterday, perhaps we can do our part and strive for world peace in all corners of the world. The Armenian people demand acceptance of only their version of history, when we all know that there are many sides to all arguments. Let’s accept individual responsibility and our mortality, as we will all one day be dust in the wind. In 1915, specific individuals, NOT AN ENTIRE NATION, thought they could erase the great Armenian people off the face of this earth. They did not succeed, for we are still here.

Today, let’s move past the blames and take on a challenge that has been considered unimaginable for almost a century. Let’s be the ones who can create a unity that will produce a million possibilities and opportunities for years to come.

Glendale, California: A Melting Pot or a Much Spirited Hub?

Ruben Vardanyan
Rubenvardanyan@yahoo.com

Have you ever wondered how so many Armenians outside of the old country have come to settle in one location? It seems like a daunting task to try and trace back the catalyst of these never-ending settlements. The easy answer seems to be that there were already Armenians there!

Whatever the reason may be, it’s nearly impossible to turn a blind eye to the changes that have been taking place here parallel to the arrival of our Caucasian fleet. I call it a double-edged renaissance. With the infusion of Armenian culture, its accompanying norms, and our everyday ways and means, Glendale has experienced nothing shy of a crash course in what it means to bear that title. But equally as remarkable has been the Armenians’ transition from an immigrant citizenry, members of whom often came with counted dollars in their pockets, to a productive young society nestled in a picturesque Southern California city.

But setting aside the tangible aspects of Glendale’s development, Armenians here have come to more diligently embrace the nuclear family, perhaps because of the realization that there are new dangers and uncertainties lurking in the backdrop of surrounding foreign populations. And arguably, in spite of these apprehensions, it seems as if some youth in Glendale are arming themselves with an extremist attitude. The super-conservative outfits that usually come in shades of “dark” and “darker” coupled with the ever burning cigarettes tell only half the story. The “rabiz” culture which spawned during the Soviet Era has unquestionably been called to the podium in today’s Glendale.

And although most are quick to pass judgment on this phenomenon, depicting it as baseless and uncanny, there is in my opinion, some silver lining that goes unnoticed. For the sake of impartiality, I’ll cede some ground and admit that there are some aspects unique to this fringe of the population that might not speak to your average, moderate Armenian.

For instance, if we were to survey the music department, we would surely be guided to conclude that there are certain artists to whom many of our friends subscribe, who have formulated a set of vocal qualities that can be unharmonious to say the least.

But back to my point about there being a greater good in all of this… From the face of it, it’s hard to see how the youth in question could impart a substantial contribution to the culture of Glendale. But on an ideological level, their commitment to the sustenance of a healthy Armenian community might parallel fanaticism. These young individuals, more often than not, see themselves as the cultural torchbearers for their generation. And although their understanding might be naïve and rigidly traditional, their goal is one – to propel the growth of sound Armenian families and children by encouraging good discipline. The youth today take issue with the fact that our race is short-stacked from a numerical perspective; that our margin for error is nil.

Every time I find myself in Glendale, wherever the venue may be, there is emphatic talk about right and wrong, about morality and accountability. And this, I have to say, is satisfying on many levels.

Jano's 2 Cents: Armenian Culture Beyond Christianity

By Jano Boghossian
Janoboghossian@ucla.edu


1700 years ago, King Drtad III of Armenia declared Christianity as the official religion of Armenia, making the Armenian Kingdom the first state to do so in world history. What many people neglect to understand was the transition of paganism to monotheism in Armenia, as it was not a peaceful process that happened overnight, but one that caused bloodshed and the destruction of the majority of Armenia’s pre-Christian past.

When we think of the Christianization of Armenia in 301 AD, the history books make it seem as though St. Gregory the Illuminator was a peaceful man who cures King Drtad III of his disease, and proceeds to baptize him to bring peace to the country. Although this does pass as a good story, it is certainly not what took place. St. Gregory destroyed thousands of pagan temples in the name of Christianity, while the King forcibly converted many of the Armenians to Christianity for political purposes. By tearing down our pagan temples, St. Gregory demolished not only ancient Armenian relics and architecture, but also the majority of the links to our past.

I am not here to argue for or against Christianity, nor am I here to speak about my personal religious beliefs. It is just a shame that the trade-off for Christianity in Armenia resulted in the loss of so much Armenian culture. Armenians should not be ashamed of their pre-Christian past – they should immerse themselves in it. Just because we accepted Christianity, does not mean we have to neglect thousands of years of our culture. Some of the most powerful kings in Armenian history ruled over the Armenian Highland long before Jesus, yet we overlook the culture of that time because it was pre-Christian.

The Greek Orthodox Church has been around for about as long as the Armenian Church. The Greeks are one of the oldest people in world history with their ancient mythology and culture having influenced the entire western world. Although he was Macedonian, Alexander the Great spread Hellenistic culture across the Near East that changed the world forever. The Greeks have an amazing history; they are currently known for their devout faith in church. They are not ashamed of what their ancestors worshipped because it was part of the foundation that made Hellenistic culture what it is today. Greeks worship Jesus through the Orthodox Church, yet they exhibit their pagan past with great pride because it is a part of their national identity.

Armenian mythology is what set the Armenian people apart from their neighbors thousands of years ago. Although many of the primary gods and goddesses have similar traits and stories with those of the Persian and Greek gods, the Armenian pantheon was still unique.

What many Armenians are not aware of today is that many modern-day traditions can be traced back to the stories of the ancient gods. For example, Vartevar is celebrated in the summer in honor of Asdghig – the goddess of love and beauty. Some Armenians try to balance lavash (bread) on their shoulders during their wedding ceremony, keeping with the story of Asdghig and Vahakn’s wedding. The temple of Garni, which is one of the few remaining relics of pagan Armenia, is in honor of Mirh – the god of the sun. Even the names of many of these gods are still used today, such as Aramazd, Vahakn, Dzovinar, and Anahid.

Having said this, there is no debate that the Armenian people would not be here today without the existence of the Armenian Church. After the fall of the last kingdom in 1375, Armenians lived on their homeland as a subject nationality within different Islamic empires. After hundreds of years of warfare between Turkmen tribes, Ottomans, Safavids, and Russians, Armenians eventually became a minority population on their own homeland. The Armenian Apostolic Church was the only widespread national institution keeping Armenians united under Muslim rule. Without the church, the Armenian people would have lost their identity and assimilated into any of the cultures in which they lived in across the Diasporas.

Greeks and Armenians have much in common when it comes to their history, language, and culture. Both have ancient cultures, a similar language, have been oppressed by the Ottomans, and still survive today. Greeks are not ashamed to exhibit their pre-Christian culture because not only does it form the basis of their culture, but has influenced the rest of Western and Near East society. We Armenians have a certain mentality about our pagan past, and feel that we’re betraying our church by embracing our pre-Christian history. Since Armenian culture is thousands of years old – much older than Christianity – we should be able to take great pride in what makes us unique and gives us our national identity. Greeks have no problem having their pantheon hand-in-hand with their Orthodox faith, and neither should we.

Sexy Time

By Repraxia Choubakhchian
Rchoubakhchian@yahoo.com

It occupies most of my brain. It occupies most of my nights.
I like it more than ice cream. When I like it more, I scream.

I wouldn’t exist without it. I don’t want to exist without it.

No one wants to admit it. And that’s what makes it so hot.

Because taboos are fun. Guilty pleasures are even better. Not chocolate, not a cigarette, not even a little pill.

The best drug that’s not over the counter. On the contrary, I wouldn’t mind it on the counter.

Or better yet, forget the counter - I hear most drug stores have self-service checkouts.

Those are good too, but sometimes you just want someone else to ring you up.

“Would that be all for you today?”

“Oh God, yes.”

But that’s a lie…because I always need help with my groceries to the car. Some things can’t be done alone. My arms get tired from carrying the bags… but sometimes I don’t want a bag boy… I just want a bad boy.

I always hope that he is strong. The bag boy I mean. At least someone that looks like he can handle my goods. I always have a lot and they’re usually very heavy…

Running up and down the aisles makes me very tired. And then there’s always the occasional clean up on whatever aisle.

Sometimes it’s hard to reach things on the top shelves no matter how far I stretch to reach.

“Almost there.” And then I reach the top… that’s where they stack the best items.

I like to try new things too. That’s why I like it when strangers give me in-store samples. I love those little tasty things, but I never buy the pack, I just move onto the next sample. And the next, and the next…

When I was young, I thought I’d grow my hair out because it would make me look pretty.

Now I just think it’s practical.

When I was young, I thought bruises were a bad thing. Now I realize they’re just souvenirs.

When I was young, I thought toys came from the toy store. Now I find them in more interesting places.

When I was young, I thought babies came from two people having intercourse. Now I think babies don’t have to come - just the two people having intercourse…

Ever wake up in the middle of the night... for all the right reasons?

Ever wake up in the morning... for all the right reasons?

Ever not sleep… for all the right reasons?

Like I was saying… it occupies most of my brain. Probably yours too. But you won’t admit it, which makes it so hot.

Don’t be scared. Just confess darling, confess… it feels so good.

Made the Move: Becoming a Woman

By Rosaline Natalie Paronyan
Rparonya@uci.edu

When high-school comes to an end, young Armenians and their families mostly choose an educational option that keeps the graduates close to home. In my situation, the idea of moving a mere 50 miles away to Irvine for college was stubbornly accepted. My parents understood that leaving the nest would place me in a vulnerable position that would undoubtedly help me grow, mature, and embrace a healthy sense of independence.

The traditions and values they instilled from day one were stagnant and would stay with me whether I was in home, Irvine, or thousands of miles away. My parents knew I would not abuse the freedom I received by moving away from home. So in the end, they loosened their grip and let me take the next step in exploring adulthood. My grandmother has still yet to catch onto the fact that I don’t live at home anymore. This is highly strategic because we all wanted to spare her from constantly worrying about her little granddaughter being a ghastly 2 hours away from home on her own.

If you push all the emotional and moral factors to the side, moving away from home and into an apartment has many physical burdens to take on. I am blessed to have always been sheltered and provided with many conveniences and luxuries while growing up. So before I moved to Irvine, I expected to naturally be prepared to take on the responsibilities and freedoms that my relocation entailed. Little did I know…

Back at home, there was no doing the dishes, my own laundry, cleaning my room, or any common chores of that sort. My “obligations” consisted of doing well in school, hanging out with my friends, and pursuing my hobbies. I didn’t evade these chores because I felt as if I was above them, but because I thought it would be a waste of valuable time, especially since there was someone who did them for me. I never realized how “spoiled” I was until there was nobody to rely on but myself.

In Irvine, I wake up in the mornings in my humble twin bed and after getting ready, leave my bedroom and go into the kitchen to get my snack on. Not having anybody to say “good morning” to is depressing, since my roommates are either sleeping or have already left for school.

Sometimes I would come home from school and there would be literally nothing to eat that belongs to me in the pantry or in the fridge. Lesson learned: one grocery trip won’t last me a month; I have to restock almost every week, unless I want to starve. I was uninformed about how quickly dust can accumulate everywhere, or how one dirty pair of jeans can turn into a mother-load of clothing in desperate need of a good washing. I guess I didn’t know how to handle living alone and taking care of myself – until I came to terms with reality and understood that nobody was going to make my bed, provide me with groceries, or change my light bulbs. When it hit me that nobody was there to take care of these basic chores, I was left to do them myself. Don’t get me wrong, my parents still badgered me by calling me about seven times a day on average to make certain that I am still alive and doing what I need to do maintain a habitable apartment

Just recently, I developed a routine in Irvine and as long as it was followed, then shit would get done. When each week commences, I conduct a mental check-list that ensures everything is in order. After much practice and dedication, because cooking and cleaning are art-forms on their own, I pretty much mastered the physical aspect of living by myself. I acquired a newly found sense of independence and self-reliance that I didn’t even realize I lacked before I made the move to Irvine. When I come back home on the weekends, I refuse to rely on others to do the chores that I know I can take on myself. Guadalupe, our housekeeper of 12 years, is impressed and says that I am becoming a woman.

I get it now, besides for education, my parents knew beforehand that moving to Irvine would force me to execute my responsibilities and thus become more mature. The plan worked smoothly: I made the move and I feel pretty damn self-reliant – I like it.

Fashion With Mari: From Los Angeles to New York in Style

By Mari Gezalyan
Mhgezalyan@gmail.com

It’s that time of the year again, where the old is thrown out, buried deep in the back of the closet, or revamped for a new season. As I switched out my L.A.’s finest for New York’s warmest, I realized that this year’s Fashion Week was going to be one to go down in history as the season that changed it all. Riding high on the wave of a faux depression filled with layoffs, unemployment, and the reversal of the American psyche from “I want” to “I need,” designers have taken the approach of making their creations more realistic rather than surreal.

This fall get ready to bring out the red, the orange, the pale blues and all hues that are new! Georges Chakra, Ports 1961, Zac Posen, Donna Karen, Perry Ellis, and countless many have made their runways pop with red silks, velvets, and georgettes. Hello fox, grey, and goat skin trenches. The rich fabrics and gracing silhouettes embrace the female form while feminizing masculine looks. To my surprise, leg wear is ever more present. Bold, opaque, sheer, hints of sheen, or textured are seen with ready-to-wear and evening gowns. They are paired with open toe booties, strappy sandals, sky-high platforms, and flats. Whether it is Custo Barcelona’s flamboyant colors or Diane von Furstenburg’s classic warps modified, I am anxiously counting down the months until fall.

Fashion Week is not all about what happens on the runway but what is happening off the catwalk. When I met my friend Kate Dommick, style editor of People magazine’s Style Watch, our talk about losing Alexander McQueen (the Kobe Bryant of fashion who died earlier that week) and loving Calvin Klein’s timeless clean cuts had shifted to the tragic earthquake in Haiti. Model Naomi Campbell’s Fashion for Relief - Haiti brought in the star power combined with the help of fashion’s finest, to raise aid for the still struggling country. Victoria Beckham, Kelly Osbourne, and Molly Sims were only a few of the countless celebrities lending their star-power for the cause, along with QVC who had joined Mercedes-Benz by donating 95% of their “Fashion for Haiti” shirts’ profit. “It’s amazing how people come together when there is some sort of tragedy. This past month has been mind blowing - first Haiti and then McQueen. It makes you realize how important the little things are in life,” stated Dommick over lattes.

It certainly is a different world out here in New York. Coming from the laid back, overly heated, and at times superficial lifestyle that embraces Los Angeles, it is refreshing to be set back into reality. Through all the shows, meetings, and shopping around the City, I found myself asking the same question, “Why is L.A. Fashion Week such a joke?” Being a true California native who surfed during the summers, scheduled my events around Laker games, and confined myself to my box on wheels, it is such a shame that the culture out in Southern California is so fixed on artificial aesthetics. Yes, there is fashion week in L.A., yes we do have stressful days, yes we do walk to our destinations (even if is 10 steps from our cars to the front door); nevertheless, I can’t help but realize that there is something missing. Maybe it’s the drive, the angry cabbies, the rush of Wall Street, or simply the New York state of mind.

As I get ready for the last day of Fashion Week, I click my Roger Vivers only to realize I am home at Bryant Park.

Khatchadourian Knows How to Rock the Stage

By Christina Der Sarkissian
Chrisdersark@ucla.edu

Spontaneous, generous, and talented: Eileen Khatchadourian changed the way thousands perceive Armenian music by blending rock music with traditional folk songs.

“I always knew I wanted to be a singer,” Khatchadourian states. She attended a music conservatory from a young age, where she learned piano and solfegio. “I don’t think that rock is very different from classical music,” she states. With the advantages of growing up in a family of musicians coupled with her sensational musical talent, Khatchadourian’s innate passion for music spurred a new genre of music: Armenian Rock.

Each song on the Midan album incorporates an Armenian song with a different style of rock. Most of the songs are alternative rock: Zarti Vortyag is industrial rock, Karouna is gothic rock, and Aravod is more trip-hop.

Khatchadourian, born in Beirut, Lebanon, attended Hripsimiantz (an Armenian private school) until the age of fifteen, where she enjoyed performing songs at school concerts. Since leaving Beirut, she has been on her feet, traveling from Paris to Belgium to Dubai to Abidjan, living in a different location every couple of years. “In Paris, I felt a huge distance between me, my parents, and childish friends – something was missing in my life,” Khatchadourian said, after feeling lonely in a country with a very small Armenian population.

“There was an awakening of my Armenian identity,” she states, and she began learning Gregorian and traditional songs. Although she was very into jazz at the time, there were already many Armenian singers who were producing jazz music, and she wanted to do something different. Khatchadourian collaborated with keyboard player Mazen Siblinialso, drummer Jad Aouad, and bass players Mihran Gurunian and Haitham Shalhoub… the magic had begun.

Khatchadourian was much honored when her first album Midan was nominated by the Armenian Music Awards for the title of Best Rock Album amongst other professionals who were on their third or fourth album. “It was a very proud moment for me, representing both Armenians and Lebanese among 7,000 people in the Nokia Theater,” she states.

She points out that her music is for non-Armenians to enjoy as well, saying, “It’s for them to see our heritage.” Her astounding ability to reach out to not only the Armenian community allows others to be exposed to rich Armenian culture through her fiery music.

“I wanted my first CD to be Armenian – I felt that it was my duty to do this, but a very pleasant duty nonetheless,” Khatchadourian states. She hopes to continue producing albums and is currently working on her second album, which will include some songs in Armenian (folklore), but will broaden her musical scope to a couple of English songs as well. She is currently working on music videos from the album Midan, as well as working hard to perform in a concert in Los Angeles.

When asked as to where she sees herself in ten years, Khatchadourian replied, “To be quite honest, I don’t have any long term plans. I only wish that I will be traveling and singing, while making the people I love proud.”

You can check out Eileen Khatchadourian on Facebook or on her webpage, www.eileenkhatchadourian.com, where samples of her music can be heard.

A Look into the Life of a Musical Mastermind: Komitas Vardapet

By: Tanya Ohanian
Tanya_ohanian@yahoo.com

Hidden behind the codes of melody, Komitas laid his soul bare for the world to see. Vulnerable and slightly misunderstood by the others in the seminary, he knew the quality of his music and what it would one day become. The essence of Komitas’ life is seen vividly through the eyes of two women… which brings me to introduce the playwrights of the play Komitas, Lily Thomassian and co-writer Lory Tatoulian - one slightly introverted yet bursting with life and the other raised with religious ideals and a deep, ardent love for the arts. When asked as to what word summed up Komitas’ being, Lory simply replied “hoki” or soul. It is this very idea that fueled and inspired the creation of this play.

After reading the script, I was pleased to see an imaginative blend of both comedy and drama, which didn’t allow for a single dull moment. It starts off with the entrance of young Soghomon Soghomonyan (Komitas, before his name change) into the Echmiadzin Seminary. It portrays the creation of his world-famous choir and the disapproval that ensued from the clergymen of the seminary.

Of course, no story is complete without the purest rawest emotion known to man – love. The plot explores the untold romance of Komitas and a woman by the name of Margaret Babian.

As for the end, not much can be said for the wretchedness of the Armenian Genocide or of Komitas’ untimely demise that followed in lieu with his mental illness due to his inability to accept the suffering of his people. All in all, the play brilliantly captures the very fundamental nature of Komitas’ trials and tribulations, all the while showing a new more colorful and comedic side to the great Komitas Vardapet.

The goal in producing the play falls far from being pretentious, but rather focuses on educating youth and older generations alike, in a positive attempt to further expose Komitas to the world, and by doing so, keeping his story and music alive. The playwrights plan to produce the play Komitas on a professional stage sometime within this year. The success of this play rests in the hands of gracious sponsors and eager volunteers who wish to help carry on the legacy of Komitas; a fundraiser will be held on March 28th at the home of Catherine Yesayan in order to raise the necessary funds.

Volunteers are essential to this project. If you are in any way interested in acting, volunteering, sponsoring, or attending the fundraiser, please don’t hesitate to contact Lily Thomassian or Lory Tatoulian through visiting the play’s website www.thekomitasplay.com or the Facebook page Komitas - The Play.

“We - all of us - we have to care. You see, our folk songs are like crimson threads that are woven through the fabric of our nation. It’s what keeps us together. What makes us be ‘us’. We will be orphaned, without identity. Like someone who has lost his clothes. We will be naked.” These are words taken from the script, further portraying Komitas as a beacon of hope.

What I realized from the play and his amazing life story is the moral of seeing the beauty in simplicity… never downplaying its significance, but understanding that there is more to life than its superficialities. Komitas’ experimental musical style has paved the way for artists throughout the world. Proving to be an inspiration to many, the story of the plight of the Armenian people is quite inexplicably told through his music. By appreciating and enjoying his music, we Armenians are fulfilling his lifelong ambition of spreading joy and spirituality to everyone.

Coming to America - Part Deux

By Manouk Akopyan
Manouk.akopyan@gmail.com

He’s back! Almost two years removed from a resounding debut in the United States, king Arthur Abraham will return for a good ole’ helping of American seconds when he faces off against Andre Dirrell for his fight in Group Stage 2 of the Super Six World Boxing Classic.

Set to take place on March 27th at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan – just an hour-long drive away from Dirrell’s Flint, Michigan hometown, Abraham (31-0, 25 KOs) said he is looking forward to putting on a winning performance for his much anticipated return to America, one of which the parameters have undergone a 180 degree turn and two seismic shifts in recent weeks.

The fight was first postponed from March 6 to March 27 after Dirrell revealed he had a back injury, of which the severity was never discussed or detailed.

Abraham said in an exclusive interview that he’s disappointed he will not be fighting in front of his loyal Armenian fans in Los Angeles, but added that he wouldn’t let the pre-fight mind games alter his ultimate goal of pounding Dirrell in the ring. When asked if Dirrell, the 2004 U.S. Olympian bronze medalist, could pose any serious threat to his potential Super Six throne, the King was quick to set the pre-fight record straight.

“Dirrell and [his promoter] Gary Shaw are trying to pull a fast one, but this is not going to affect me in my preparation of demolishing Dirrell,” he asserted. “They’re just delaying the inevitable. Andre Dirrell can’t give me a serious fight. He is not a fighter. He’s a dancer. His technique is punch, grab, run, and repeat. When I cut the ring in half, we’ll see where he’ll end up going.”

Within hours of Dirrell revealing his injury, the bout was rescheduled in record time and given a new date of March 27. Inconveniently for Abraham, but conveniently for Camp Dirrell, the Aqua Caliente was already committed to a concert event on the 27th. With all other venues in Los Angeles out of question due to availability and the fight being too small for the bright lights of Las Vegas, in stepped in the city of Detroit as the alternate.

Skepticism was also raised by Ulli Wegner, Abraham’s trainer, when he called into question Dirrell’s injured back. He asked, “How can Dirrell already know that he’ll be a 100% fit come March 27? When someone gets injured, he can’t really call the date of being healthy again. Camp Dirrell just wants to play mind games with us, but this won’t give them any advantage. We will continue to keep Arthur focused; we will not be thrown off track.”

By competing in the Super Six World Boxing Classic, 30 year-old Abraham is in the most defining stretch of his career in which he aims to achieve global recognition. Of the Berlin resident’s 31 fights, 29 have been held in Germany.

“After I win this tournament, I want the world to know of Arthur Abraham,” he stated.

He currently leads the round-robin tournament that features six of the world’s elite super middleweights with three points for his 12th-round knockout win against Jermain Taylor, the former undisputed middleweight champion.

The bout was originally scheduled to take place at the Aqua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage, California, with Vic Darchinyan headlining the undercard and providing a presumable night of nirvana for Armenian fans across Los Angeles. Armenian fans who predominantly contributed to the sellout of the originally-scheduled Palm Springs fight are now in a pickle as they look to somewhat balance the 21,000 strong that will show up in support of their own grown.

“I hope the entire arena will be filled to the rafters with Armenians, so that the boxing world will be amazed that an Armenian fighter out-drew an American fighter in his own country,” Abraham stated.

Tickets pricing is $28, $53, $78, $103 and $128 and could be purchased at OlympiaEntertainment.com, Ticketmaster.com, and the Joe Louis Arena box office. To charge tickets by phone, call (800) 745-3000. For additional information, call 313-471-6611.



Editor’s Note: The interview with Arthur Abraham was conducted in Armenian and translated into English.

Michael Madatovian Breaks the Ice

By Talynn Kuyumjian
Talynnkuyumjian@yahoo.com

In sunny Los Angeles, hockey is frequently an underappreciated and unacknowledged sport. Nonetheless, there are over half a million registered hockey players in this country and these are the people that keep this exciting sport alive. Current UCLA hockey player and President of the UCLA Hockey team, Michael Madatovian is one of those athletes.

Michael David Madatovian was born on December 14, 1988 in Woodland Hills, California. He moved to Glendale at the age of two, and has been living there ever since. During his youth, Madotovian attended Hovsepian Armenian School and Clark Magnet High school, where he was later accepted into UCLA straight out of high school.

Madatovian has had a passion for playing hockey for as long as he can remember. When he was eleven years old, his father began taking him to hockey lessons. He joined the Golden Bears in Burbank, an under-18 hockey club, where he made a lot of Armenian friends. “I played Travel Club hockey as a kid and a lot of Armenians from Burbank played with me on this team. During our games, all the Armenian parents would be so loud, always cheering us on; it was really fun.”

After being accepted into UCLA, the first move he made was joining the UCLA Hockey team during his freshmen year. “There were 5 Armenian players on the hockey team at the time; we all became very close friends” Madatovian states. With his UCLA Hockey teammates, Madatovian travels about three to four times a year in order to compete at various universities such as Berkeley, Stanford, Arizona State, and the University of Washington. After the games, the team likes to go out, see the city, and celebrate.

One player that has truly inspired Madatovian is Scott Stevens from the New Jersey Devils. “He’s a defenseman like I am, and he’s definitely one of the hardest hitters in the league, so I’ve always looked up to him.”

As the President and leader of his team, Madatovian has led the Bruins to many victories just as Stevens has done with the Devils. Recent victories include the hockey games against Stanford and Washington State University. “We definitely came out and controlled the flow of the game. We skated hard, and they had to try to keep up with us” Madatovian explains.

The team also has some superstitious beliefs; on game days, the team warms up in the same routine manner. “We used to chant and sing in between periods; but some of the team members have suggested for us not to do that anymore since we lost two games after doing that.”

Madatovian is a very multi-talented individual. Besides playing hockey, he also plays the guitar and the piano. “Living in Westwood is pretty fun. There’s always somewhere to go, and someone who always wants to do something.” With schoolwork, hockey practice, dorming, and having fun with friends, it seems as though Madatovian is living the ideal college life.

Although Madatovian’s father enjoys watching his son play, his mother is always worried that he will get injured. “My mom says that hockey takes up too much of my time, and that I should put more emphasis on my academics. She’s right, but…it’s ok [he laughs].”

Madatovian’s ultimate career goal is to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a doctor in the near future. “Hopefully, ten years from now, I will be done with my residency and will have started my career in emergency medicine or as a surgeon.”