June/July 2004 Issue # 1 (11) - Melkonian Alumni and Friends

Transcription

Issue # 1 (11)
June/July 2004
MAI Newsletter June, 2004/ 1
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A Publication of the
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
A Note
from the
Editor
Founding Publisher : Michael nahabet
Editor - Publisher : Zohrab Shamassian
Production Director : Raffi Zinzalian
Arm. Copy Editor : Hagop Ovayan
Administration/Finance : Zohrab Shamassian
Class Notes Director : nineli Khanian
E-Mail : [email protected]
MAF-NEWSLETTER is published periodically by the Melkonian Alumni & Friends, P. O.
Box 11232, Santa Ana, CA 92711, uSA.
Phone (949) 855-2015, Fax (949) 583-1263
Letters to the Editor should be addressed to:
Zohrab Shamassian
28002 Via Congora
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
uSA
Fax: (949) 583-1263
E-mail: [email protected]
Myr a3s ;ivu gamke angaq
badja-nyrow lo3s gu dysne
ov,axovmow5 orovn hamar
g\abavinink myr un;yrxo.nyrovn
‘oq hasgaxo.ov;yan1
MELkoNiAN ALuMNi & FRiENdS WEbSiTE:
A3s dy.ygadovn ir a-a]in
www.melkonianforever.org
isg ;ivow govcar /anovxylov5 ;e ir
ny. e]erovn me] bidi ‘or2e
A.G.B.u.
ardaxolyl Mylconyani gyankin
MeLKOnIAn
hyd
a-n[ovo.
niv;yr5
eDuCATIOnAL InSTITuTe
ar2acancnyr s’iv-kow m eg
d a r a / o v a /
n a q g i n
Principal
Mylconyanxinyre yv Sanovx
Annie Lachinian
P.O. Box 1907,
Miov;ivnnyre5 a3l q0skow ta-nalow
1514 nicosia, Cyprus
meg ‘okrig ha3ylin myr Ma3r
Tel: (357) 02-422195, 422204
Hasdadov;yan yv bedk e usyl or
Fax: (357) 02-493155
a3s
ov..ov;yamp5 Dy.ygadovn
e-mail: [email protected]
pavagan
la3n hydakrkrov;ivn
www.melkonian.ac.cy
sdy./a/ e Mylconyanxinrov m0d1
MeLKOnIAn ALuMnI WORLDWIDe S a g a 3 n b e d k e a v y l i
c o r / n a b a , d
u l l a l 5
Chairpersons
;.;agxov;ivnnyru avyli
ganonavor gyrbow ov.argyl
Cyprus, Shavasb Bohdjalian
qmpacrov;yan5 orbeszi
u.S.A., Garo Kassabian
Dy.ygadovn ir ampo.]agan tyru
u.S.A., Paul Yalnezian
gadare1
(Melkonian Friends & Alumni)
In[bes bidi ngadek5 a3s
Canada (Toronto), Hacik Tozdjian
;ivu
g\untcrge zanazan niv;yr5
Canada (Montreal) Hagop Aktorossian
in[
or
avyli hydakrkragan gu
england, Raffi Goetcherian
tar2ne Dy.ygadovn1 Saga3n sa
Greece, Setrag Abassian
usylow5 yrpyk nbadag [ovnink
Australia, Ara Bedikian
naqort ;ivyrovn wra3en
Melkonian
Alumni and
Friends Formed
in California
A group of Melkonian alumni
have formed a new non-profit organization, independent of the AGBu
California Alumni, which will undertake the task of investigating and
determining the claimed rights by
the AGBu regarding the Melkonian
Institute. The investigation will be
conducted by a law firm (to be
announced soon), which will be
given free rein to do as they see fit,
without any reservations. We are
excited by the amount and the speed
with which the alumni responded to
our unofficial pledge drive and we
are able, ready and definitely willing
to proceed at full force and immediately.
We have a lot of support from
non-Melkoniantsis, which only confirms our conviction that this is not
just a sentimental matter of the MeI.
There is enormous support within
many communities and various organizations. We are also very pleased
and appreciative of the media's
response to our cause. Many of the
articles were from the AGBu rank
and file or from members of the supporting political party, namely
Ramgavars. It is encouraging to
know that people are responding to
the cause in spite of their former loyalties to the AGBu.
Formerly we have pleaded with
the AGBu, we have reasoned, we
Lebanon, Serop Apoyan
Armenia, Haik Nazarian
Editor continued on page 26
continued on page 26
This Issue is Sponsored by
AGbu C ALiFoRNiA M ELkoNiAN A LuMNi
2 / MAI Newsletter June, 2004
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
interview with Paul Yalnezian, Chairman of Melkonian Alumni & Friends,
independent, non-profit organization.
By Zepur Ohannessian
Ever since AGBU finally admitted their long-suspected intention to close the Melkonian institute in
Cyprus by June 2005 I had been hearing a lot
rumors about a lot of activities by the alumni
around the world. Recently I decided to attend one
of the weekly meetings of the new Melkonian
Alumni organization in Glendale, California and
chatted a bit with Paul Yalnezian, the President of
the organization.
Q: What is the purpose of the Melkonian Alumni
and Friends?
A: Melkonian Alumni and Friends is the first
endeavor of the Armenian Heritage Preservation
Foundation, a non-profit organization under US
laws. The purpose of the Melkonian Alumni and
Friends is to preserve the Melkonian Institute as is,
where is, in Cyprus.
Q: Do you envision the Melkonian School to
remain only at its current location?
A: Well obviously it is clear that the current location
of the school is an extremely valuable piece of real
estate and it would be ideal to be able to keep it
there. So far, everyone is keen on keeping the
school in its current location, but then again, I
believe in keeping all options open. You never
know, with a little bit of creativity there might be a
way to keep everyone happy. Cyprus has a strategic value that cannot be underestimated.
Armenians and Cypriots have a long history together. Melkonian is not just an Armenian institution in
Cyprus but it has become a Cypriot institution as
well. Imagine the US closing down the American
University of Beirut; it would create a national stir in
Lebanon. It is not a surprise that the current government of Cyprus is even willing to financially support the upkeep and preservation of the school. The
fact that Cyprus is now part of the European union
cannot be underestimated either. Even though
Egypt and other countries in the Middle East had
large and thriving Armenian communities, the
Melkonian brothers chose to establish the school in
Cyprus: 80 years later we are seeing the wisdom of
that decision. The cultural, religious and other common traits we share with Cypriots make it even
more important and critical to keep the school in
place and allow it to continue its legacy in Cyprus.
Q: Do you think the AGBU has done a good job
throughout its management of the school during the past many decades?
A: The communities that the school served seem to
have been satisfied with what the school offered in
the past. Then again, if they were not offered anything better how can we know if they were well
served or not? Did the school aspire to be more
than the orphanage it was initially designed to be?
Looking back and knowing some facts we discovered recently, it appears that the AGBU has mismanaged the Melkonian funds it was entrusted with.
It is a pity that with so much going for it the school
has underachieved under AGBU’s management. In
that respect, the AGBU central board is the only
entity that can be blamed. The AGBU has now created an opportunity for the alumni. I consider it an
opportunity because by their declaration that the
school must be closed they have in fact admitted
their inability to better manage the school and raise
it to a level befitting its legacy. AGBU’s lack of
vision for the future of Melkonian has created an
opportunity for the rest of us who are passionate
about the school to step up to the plate and take
over the management and rekindle the vision of the
Melkonian brothers. We are all disappointed that
the central board repeatedly denied their intentions
of closing the school until the last minute: that was
obviously intentional and in bad faith. What is even
more disappointing is that the AGBU does not see
the school’s strategic and national value.
Q: The AGBU and the Alumni of the Melkonian
institute used to have an amicable relationship:
why take a hard stand now? Aren’t you concerned with the consequences to the AGBU?
doing. Former alumni and delegations have tried to
reason with the central board but to no avail. If they
don’t care about the reputation of the AGBU how
can we? Besides, the opposition to the closing is
not only from former alumni but from Armenians
worldwide. The central board has turned a deaf ear
regarding this issue.
Q: What kind of steps is the new organization
taking in preventing the school from closing?
A: One of the first things that we are doing is legal
research in order to confirm irrefutably that the
school was just under the management of the
AGBU and never “gifted” to the AGBU, even though
the AGBU claims otherwise. Our research has to go
as far back as Alexandria, Egypt, Lausanne
Switzerland, Constantinople, France, and even
New York, and we will do whatever it takes to prove
our conviction. Many alumni and former members
of the AGBU who have seen the original documents
first hand, concur that the school was only under
the management of the AGBU. We have recently
discovered that the AGBU may have removed some
sensitive documents from the Boghos Nubar Pasha
Library in Paris, France, which would prove our
claims. If we discover that they have actually done
that then the AGBU will be held accountable for it.
We will do whatever it takes to preserve the school
no matter what: our allegiance, our loyalty is first
and foremost to the Melkonian Brothers and nobody
else. No Armenian organization can take priority
over the Melkonian institute, that is how passionate
we all feel about it. We will save the school at any
cost just as a grateful kid would defend his parents
at any cost.
A: That’s true, the alumni always had a favorable
disposition toward the AGBU and many have joined
the ranks of the AGBU and contributed admirably to
its causes. Personally, I feel a strong gratitude to
the Melkonian brothers and not necessarily to the
AGBU. After all, the AGBU was just a manager of
the school. There are many allegations that the
AGBU has mismanaged the Melkonian funds. I
believe it is our duty to investigate the matter thoroughly and not leave any stone unturned. We are
regretfully informed that the Melkonian fund is still
more or less at the exact amount it used to be 80
years ago. It doesn’t take a wizard in finance to conclude that there is something significantly wrong
with that math. We understand that an investigation
may not be appreciated by the AGBU but we have
to do what we have to do. If the image of the AGBU
gets tainted, as it certainly will, then so be it. If future
donors end up donating to other organizations or
charities instead of the AGBU, then so be it. Right
and righteousness should prevail over might. Truth
and justice must prevail over power and wealth.
Q: How is your fundraising coming along?
So far we have done very little to hurt the AGBU:
there is a lot more in store. It may take years, if not
decades, for the AGBU to recover from its tainted
image but our conscience is clear: if they don’t
touch a sacred national cow, no one will fight them.
It is regretful that the actions of the AGBU’s central
board will hurt the AGBU but it is truly their own
A: There is enormous excitement. Everyone
seems to want to contribute to this fight in every
way possible. We have a lot of commitments, a lot
of donations. We have fund raising banquet coming
up on June 13th. We have participants from far
away places flying in, just to be present at the
event.
Q: What about the students who are currently
there?
A: Well, that is another sad aspect of this shortsighted decision. Teachers, students and their parents are all demoralized and shocked with the
abrupt decision. We will fight the closure and prevent it at any cost. It is unconscionable to tell parents and students that they need to look for another school next year. The teachers have recently
gone on strike. They are battling the school’s management and the AGBU. We will stand by the students, their parents and teachers and support them
any way we can.
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Letter to AGbu President
March 11, 2004
law, under which AGBu accepted the MeI assets and agreed to
operate MeI in accordance with the Deed of Assignment and
Transfer (the trust). Thus, counsel believes that AGBu has no
legal obligation to continue to act as trustee of MeI it so desires,
but it appears that AGBu has no legal right to close MeI or to
sell off its assets. Instead, AGBu may resign as trustee, just as
AGBu's predecessor,! the Patriarch of the Armenians in
Constantinople, resigned as trustee in 1925.
Mr. Berge Setrakian, President
And Central Board of Directors
Armenian General Benevolent union
55 e. 59th Street
new York, nY 10022-1112
Re: Melkonian educational Institute and AGBu
Dear President and Directors:
The California Melkonian Alumni (CMA) and its members are
anxious to communicate their utmost good wishes to the AGBu
and their confidence in the AGBu Board of Directors. In that
light, CMA undertakes its responsibility to inform the AGBu
Board of an impending crisis concerning the future of the
Melkonian education Institute. CMA and its members have a
deep and abiding love for MeI and a commitment to preserve
MeI and to carry out the wishes and intent of the founder. We are
MeI alumni, and we credit much of our personal, professional
and financial success to our years at MeI.
The entire alumni and the worldwide Armenian community
know that the AGBu Board will decide MeI‚s fate at its next
meeting. You have seen newspaper reports and editorials speculating that the decision to close MeI has already been made.
AGBu, it is said, may offer a rationale for closing MeI based
upon increasing deficits and declining enrollment, yet alumni
leaders respond that these problems have been the unintended
consequence of a long-term mismanagement by the people
AGBu has trusted and delegated to run the school, thus forcing
AGBu to consider the option of liquidating MeI's assets and
allocating them for other than the existing purpose.
CMA has learned that several alumni have obtained legal advice
with respect to the status of MeI. CMA has requested that its
friends and members not initiate any lawsuits, in Cyprus, the
united Kingdom, the united States, or elsewhere, until this matter has been carefully considered and reasonable settlement
efforts have been undertaken. nevertheless, alumni have come
forward with information from several different law firms located in different countries, and they indicate that the operative documents created a legal trust, enforceable under english common
CMA hopes and appeals to the Board that it will take a decision
not to close MeI but to improve and even expand its operations
under new and effective management. Alternatively, the Board
may decide that AGBu will no longer serve as trustee, as it takes
much more effort and attention to manage MeI in relation to the
total AGBu worldwide benevolent activities. In this case, we
shall be pleased to work in close consultation with the Board to
help identify and select a successor trustee, which will be ready,
willing and able to assume these obligations and to operate MeI
in accordance with the trust. However, CMA and its alumni urge
the AGBu Board not to take the decision to close MeI or severely curtail its operations, since this will cause irreparable harm to
all concerned. Surely the AGBu Board knows that such a decision would be widely protested in the Armenian community and
that litigation would follow immediately. Such a decision would
be seen ! as a violation of the sacred trust of the Melkonian family and would gravely affect the enormous goodwill that has
existed among the AGBu, the alumni and Armenian community.
Please give this your immediate and careful attention, and please
give us the honor of your reply by email or fax no later than the
close of business on Tuesday next, March 16, 2004.
The California Melkonian Alumni and its members remain confident that the AGBu Board will act in the best interests of MeI
and the Armenian Diaspora, to preserve and protect its long tradition of excellence in Armenian education, so that future generations will benefit, as have we, who remain,
With best personal regards,
for California Melkonian Alumni
GARO KASSABIAn
Chairman, California Melkonian Alumni
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . H RATCH & A RPi k ASSAbiAN - G LENdALE , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
An open letter from Melkoniantsi international
to His Holiness karekin ii, Catholicos of All Armenians
Your Holiness,
We, the Melkoniantsi International
(MI) – the confederation of Melkonian
Alumni Associations of Armenia,
Australia, California, Cyprus, Lebanon,
Montreal, Ottawa, Syria, Toronto, uK
and Vancouver, write to you with reference to the proposed closure and sale of
Melkonian educational Institute (MeI)
by the Armenian General Benovelent
union.
needless to say that the Melkonian is
the most precious, vital, famous and
well-established educational institution
available in the whole of Armenian
Diaspora. Its mission is and has been to
ensure the education of poor young
Armenians in an Armenian environment.
It has neither failed nor ceased to fulfill its mission. The graduates of MeI
are, as a rule, quite politicized, proud and
passionate about their history, culture,
civilization and identity – something that
becomes less of a feature among contemporary Armenian Diasporic adolescents.
Only a Boarding school with unique
Armenian Diasporic environment, can
achieve this. MeI has produced the leaders of Armenian communities, intellectuals, teachers, academics, doctors, artists,
public servants, professionals and an
endless list of champions of Armenian
Diaspora.
A school of this kind has been and
continues to be vital to the Diaspora. At
the same time, Cyprus, being as it is
located at the crossroads of europe, The
Middle east and Africa, is an optimal
location for catering Armenian education
and for establishing a very close and
unique Armenian bond.
Our analyses show that Melkonian
can stand on its own feet and be fully
self-sufficient without any AGBu support. Furthermore, the benefits for the
school will increase as Cyprus joins the
eu in May 1, 2004.
After establishing the MeI, Garabed
Melkonian in his Deed of Assignment in
1925, assigned all of his wealth (factories, stocks, lands in egypt), but not the
MeI, to the AGBu to administer on
behalf of the MeI. These properties, valued at over $4.6 million in 1925 (the
equivalent of nearly $1.5 billion in
today’s money) were to be placed into a
separate, dedicated and untouchable
“Melkonian Fund” with only the interest
from that fund to be used for realising the
mission of the MeI. However, what
remains of the Melkonian Fund today is
reportedly only $5.5 million. The AGBu
has never released any details for the
fund or the income it generates.
Furthermore, the AGBu has failed to
produce any reasonable and plausible
justification for their commitment to
close the school. More, to this day the
AGBu CB has refused to discuss any of
the issues with interested parties, preferring to do its work behind closed doors.
All of their answers have been ambiguous, elusive and evasive.
The Deed of Assignment of 1925
makes clear that the AGBu was tasked to
act only as a fund manager for the
“Melkonian Fund” and to carry on MeI’s
mission. The Deed also clearly states that
AGBu has no right to sell MeI lands or
to close the school down. nevertheless, a
large chunk of Melkonian lands was
indeed sold in 1980s.
Furthermore, as is stated clearly, the
Deed made provisions for the continuation of the MeI as a separate entity in the
event of the AGBu ceasing to exist or it
being unable or unwilling to carry out its
obligations.
The Deed also has very specific
instructions to the banks holding the
“Melkonian Fund” regarding the procedures should the AGBu find itself unable
to carry out its obligations towards the
MeI. We would like to draw the attention
of Your Holiness to the following extract
from Garabed Melkonian’s Deed of
Assignment:
“Clause IX. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the Armenian
General Benovelent Union or in the
event that the existence and the support of this become impossible following unforeseen happenings, the
banks holding the deposited funds
held in trust to that end as provided
for above in Clause 5, will continue
to pay out the income from the funds
and securities forming the subject of
the trust into the hands of the managers
of
the
Melkonian
Establishments who will be appointed for the purpose by the Armenian
Patriarchy of Etchmiadzin. These
managers so appointed will continue
to allocate the said revenue to the
purpose specified in this present
deed.”
nevertheless, the AGBu CB has
taken the liberty of deciding to close the
MeI in June 2005.
We do not know whether the governors of the AGBu have taken steps in
making Your Holiness aware of the
above provision or whether Your
Holiness and etchmiadzin as a whole
have made a subsequent choice of
remaining unresponsive, or whether Your
Letter continued on page 26
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . H ARouTuNE & J uLiA E diNJikiAN - N oRTHRidGE , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
U
2
M
0
N
I
0
I
N
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
O
N
A
L
4
THE PETiTioN
This Petition was mailed from the Armenian Community in Cyprus. Similar petitions were mailed to AGBU
Central Board from USA, Canada, Lebanon, England and Australia by Melkonian Alumni and Supporters
Dear Members of the AGBu Central Board,
We write to you to express our deep concern and categorical objection
to the rumoured proposed sale of the Melkonian educational Institute
(M.e.I.), or to any decision that may result in the discontinuation of its
long-standing tradition as an Armenian Boarding and Charitable school.
The MeI was founded to educate Armenians from the Diaspora, to
educate them in an Armenian environment.
to cater for a vast number of communities concentrated in the Middle
east, and simultaneously links with the european Armenian youth – a
bond that can only improve with Cyprus’ integration into eu.
Closing the school down will be yet another major landmark in the
history of Armenian Diaspora’s social disintegration and cultural degradation.
That aim can best be accomplished in the current setting of a boarding
school, ie the MeI as it stands.
If the AGBu adopts “azkabahbanum” as a the criterion for assessing
MeI’s performance, a subject it professes is one of its main raison d'etre,
then it should most definitely be the very last school to be closed.
The AGBu was entrusted with that mission by the Melkonian brothers – entrusted because it was trusted by the general Armenian community at large.
Succinctly put, the idea of closing MeI or discontinuing it as a boarding school is quite simply absurd. We are astonished and speechless that
the AGBu would even consider that.
Recent behaviour by the Central Board has brought that trust into
question.
What further incites annoyance is the degree of obscurity and secrecy
behind this sale and/or consideration of changing the nature of the MeI.
We also have doubts whether the AGBu has the right to sell or dispose of the school site; further study of the original will, which the
AGBu has never made available, will, we hope, shed light on this issue.
Thus far the AGBu Central Board has not shown any determination
to discuss this matter properly with the Alumni: all the answers are
ambiguous and elusive, and its dealing with the broader Armenian community at large have been arrogant and high handed.
We feel that the Melkonian educational Institute has neither failed nor
has ceased to fulfil its mission: it has produced the cream of the nation
and still continues to create strong, successful and wilful individuals and
truly fascinating personalities. Moreover, the graduates of MeI are, as a
rule, quite politicised, proud and passionate about their history, culture,
civilisation and identity – something that becomes less of a feature in
contemporary Armenian Diasporic communities. Only a Boarding school
can achieve this. MeI has produced the leaders of Armenian communities, intellectuals, teachers, academics, doctors, artists, public servants,
professionals and an endless list of champions of ‘azkabahbanoum’.
MeI is not just another Armenian community school; it is an entire
Armenian community in microcosm, which overcomes the weaknesses
of Armenian communities and unites them in a new way.
It is the social setting and history, that only a boarding school with its
long and distinguished pedigree can provide, that allows it to instil the
sense of Armenianness and pride that can be seen in any of its graduates.
In addition, its location is still a flawlessly selected choice. It allows it
Therefore we kindly request that the detailed MeI accounts for the
last 5 years be released and made available for public viewing.
Once these accounts are made available for easy access, the
Melkonian Alumni International and global Melkoniantsi community will
be able to see which optimal solutions can be found.
We believe that selling MeI is the worst of the available solutions,
and that alternative, much more feasible and beneficial solutions can be
found through dialogue.
We call upon you, the members of the Central Board of Armenian
Diaspora’s largest charitable organisation, not to make the decision to
sell the Melkonian educational Institute and/or to discontinue it’s longstanding tradition as a Boarding and Charitable school, and instead to
engage in a roundtable discussion with the Melkonian Alumni chapters
round the world to find the best feasible solution, which would be
favourable and advantageous for all, and which would only ensure
Melkonian’s future growth and prosperity.
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
SaveMelkonian.org “Super Stars”
Who is Who @ savemelkonian.org
Souren Sarafyan (class '75) originally from Kyrenia on the northern coast of Cyprus. Moved to the
uK due to the invasion of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974 and the consequential loss of his families
house and properties there. Has a degree in Psychology from Reading university. Currently is
Development Director at Mettoni (www.mettoni.com) a company specialising in computer telephony integration. Souren and his family have a long history with Melkonian educational Institute.
Souren can be contacted regarding all matters, but he is specifically in charge of the Photos,
Registration for news-updates and our DIARY section - the daily updates that you receive by e-mail
(if you've signed up). Souren is the sponsor of this website, and also, thanks to him we've got the
Melkonian Deed professionally translated.
e-mail - [email protected]
[email protected]
Haik nazarian (class'97) is from Armenia, but has roots in Cyprus as well. He is a 2nd generation
Melkoniantsi. Haik is the IT Manager at British Council Armenia, and also our main webmaster.
He received a BSc degree in Information Systems from university of Indianapolis. After travelling and living in different countries for a decade he settled down in Armenia. The main reason for
his repatriation is to share his knowledge for the development of our fatherland as well to live in the
country where he believes every Armenian belongs to.
[email protected]
Garen Karapetyan (class'97) was born in Yerevan; grew up in Moscow; lived in Greece; was
schooled in Cyprus; studied in england, and is now in Wales, where he is a final year PhD
researcher at the Department of International Politics at the university of Wales, Aberystwyth.
His thesis on the Spectacular State presents a vehement critique of classical state-theories and traditional International Relations. The current project interweaves exegeses of various anarchist
thinkers with the achievements of postmodernist philosophers, thus critically evaluating and
upgrading the classical anarchist as well as post-anarchist thought. It engages with, and contributes
to the current (international) political debates on transformations of statistism in spectacular/consumer societies, constitutions of political Reality, political knowledge, stabilisations of phenomenology, possibilities of ethics and political responsibility, as well as to the classical debates on the
origins of the state and reasons for obedience. The thesis employs phenomenological, existentialpsychoanalytic and, later, semiotic methods in order to examine how and why the constitution and
schematisation of political reality is implicated within certain mode of experiencing of the idea of
the State. In doing so it touches on an important theme of political domination and control: not
why and how power oppresses us, but a more profound question of why we willingly participate in,
and desire our own domination. Garen's main influences are Guy Debord and Internationale
Situationniste , Stirner, Baudrillard, Lyotard, Deleuze, Foucault, Sartre, classical Anarchist thinkers,
obviously nietzsche and the Davedevils of Sassoun, as well as many activist experiences, including, the student revolt in Melkonian educational Institute in 1996. Garen was nearly expelled from
the MeI in 1996, but was eventually allowed to graduate due to his achievements in arts, and an
outstanding academic performance.
[email protected]
Telephone in uK: ++44 (0) 1970 627405
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
SaveMelkonian.org “Super Stars”
M E L k o N i A N S T i S b E H i N d S Av E M E L k o N i A N . o R G
AbouT WWW. SAvEMELkoNiAN.oRG
SaveMelkonian was set up to coordinate the
efforts of the various groups, Alumni and friends
of the Melkonian, in fighting the proposed closure
of the school.
They realized that there were many, many
groups angry and wishing to protest at the decision of the AGBu CB in new York, but that they
felt powerless as individuals. Additionally there
was no single and reliable source of information
about what was happening.
SaveMelkonian was set up to help disseminate information about events surrounding the
Melkonian school and to help the individuals and
groups to keep in contact.
Over time it has taken on a coordinating role,
keeping the various groups informed of actions
being taken, and in some cases initiating action in
its own right.
Melkonian International was set up to give
From L - R: Haik Nazarian, Souren Sarafyan, Garen Karapetyan
a single voice/identity to the various Alumni, to
allow us to speak as one on the world stage.
So far the website has had 23,890 visits, we are now averaging approximately 140 visitors a day. Additionally, articles and news items
posted on the site are, to a certain knowledge, being printed out and passed on to those that do not have Internet access.
editor
Letter continued from page 4
Holiness and etchmiadzin were intentionally left in darkness and ignored by
the Central Board of the AGBu so as to
achieve their goals promptly.
The AGBu has no legal right to close
or sell the MeI. The AGBu Central
Board has no right to treat MeI as its
own private property. Since MeI is a
school for all Armenians and since it is
the only institution of its kind, this has
now become a Pan-Armenian issue.
Closing the school down would be yet
another major blow in the history of
Armenian Diaspora’s social disintegration and cultural degradation. Succinctly
put, the idea of closing MeI or discontinuing it as a boarding school is tantamount to aiding and abetting the ‘White
genocide’ of assimilation.
The Melkoniantsi International has
been struggling and will continue struggling against the realization of AGBu’s
treacherous plans. In the best interests of
Armenian nation, MI kindly asks
etchmiadzin for close cooperation
through our representatives – the Alumni
of Armenia. As Berge Setrakian, the
president of the AGBu, arrives in
Yerevan in the near future, the
Melkoniantsi International kindly
requests that His Holiness Karekin II
raises this issue with the AGBu. Since,
evidently, etchmiadzin is an involved
party, the Melkoniantsi International
would also kindly ask that His Holiness
and the etchmiadzin release a public
statement, so as to clarify their stance
over the matter at hand.
Since the AGBu is no longer committed to carrying out its obligations
towards the MeI, having clearly stated
this in its position paper, in accordance to
the provisions made by late Garabed
Melkonian, We, the MI, advocate the dissolution of current MeI board of directors (appointed by the AGBu), and the
establishment of a new board of directors
comprising of Melkoniantsis. The
Melkoniantsis have very clear plans
regarding the realization of a selfsufficient, flourishing and independent MeI,
as was desired by Melkonian Brothers.
At this historical juncture and at these
dark times we ask for help and justice
from Your Holiness Catholicos of All
Armenians, Karekin II, just as the
Armenian Church has helped the nation
through its dark past.
Sincerely and with deep respect,
MeLKOnIAnTSI InTeRnATIOnAL
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . vARouJAN & k NARiG b oGHoSSiAN - N oRTH H iLLS , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
M
0
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Letter to AGBu
Mr. Berge Setrakian, President, Members of AGBu Central Board of
Directors
55, east 59th Street
new York, n.Y. 10022-1112
Dear Mr. President and CB members,
On October 21, 2003,Mr. Setrakian had a meeting, in Pasadena, California,
with AGBu California Melkonian Alumni for the purpose of clarification of
certain rumors. He stated clearly, among other things, that the Melkonian
budget deficit is not a major burden for the AGBu, considering all AGBu
schools combined have a budget deficit of approximately $5 million.
Secondly, The AGBu is financially in good shape with total assets exceeding $300 Million. The operating budget is in good standing and rumors to
the contrary are false. Thirdly, the SALe of Melkonian is not an option..
under the above circumstances, I cannot understand the actions Mr.
Setrakian has taken during the last two to three years. The deficit and the
budgets of the schools are not a major burden to AGBu. Since five million
dollars is allocated to cover the deficits and the operational budget of AGBu
is in good standing , one wonders why the following actions have been
taken toward the Melkonian educational Institute:
1. Two years ago Mr. Setrakian gave instructions to the Board of Trustees
of MeI that all students should pay full tuition. Trustee members unanimously opposed that proposal and came to a compromise of fifty per
cent pay rather than the complete tuition.
2. Last year Mr Setrakian instructed the Board of Trustees not to allow students more than a thirty percent discount on their total tuition and lodging costs. This resulted in the decline of student enrollment from 250 to
208. Parents with lower income levels can not afford to pay seven thousand dollars tuition.
can't principal recruit students, who can pay and others who qualifying for
free tuition? To me, these actions and expressions are Machiavellian steps. I
believe these actions prove that AGBu is in deep financial trouble. Several
AGBu branches have been told by the board that their general operating
income has dropped from 11% to 2%. Why hide the truth from public?
Armenian people will remember Mr. Alex Manoogian by his deed. He was a
true believer of "AZKABAHBAnOOM". He built many schools, community centers, and youth centers. He believed our survival depended upon the
schools and youth centers. His memory will remain within every Armenian
heart forever. The majority of the present Central Board members do not
have a clear vision about "Azkabahbanoom". They have not been exposed to
their Armenian communities. They have minimum contacts with Armenians.
How can we expect, from a board of these values, to make a decision for the
benefit of Armenian values in the Diaspora. Why did the CB send the letter
to the MeI board of trustees chastising them for daring to take the initiative
to save the school? It seems the present AGBu administration will destroy
everything Alex Manoogian built because they don't share the same vision
and have the same standards of Armenian values. The CB seems more concerned with finances rather than the original ideology that is the foundation
of the MeI.
At the last minute I learned that the Cyprus government appreciates the merits of keeping MeI as is and is willing to extend a helping hand, morally
and financially. Recently, I heard that Mr. Bedros Kalaydjian,a prominent
Armenian representative in the Cyprus Parliament, is succeeding to obtain
additional subsidies from the government in the amount of $500,000 annually for the MeI.
I wish to see the honorary Central Board members of AGBu make constructive and wise decision according to the will of the Melkonian Brothers to
the satisfaction of the Melkonian Alumni and Armenian people by issuing a
declaration regarding the following:
3. In August, Mr Setrakian instructed the Board of Trustees and the
Principal of the school not to recruit students from countries other than
Cyprus. This will surely result in the reduction of enrollment by at least
fifty students per year.
1. MeI will be free to recruit financially disadvantage Armenian students
with high scholastic achievements, in accordance with the vision of the
Benefactors, without discrimination, from all countries of Diaspora,
Armenia and Gharabagh, free of tuition charge.
4. In regard to school budget, we were told several times by Mr. Setrakian
and others that the school budget has a deficit over $1 million. no one
would provide a breakdown or a source of income to cover the budget.
According to my findings, the current budget is 1.2 million Cyprus
pounds which is approximately equivalent to uS$1.9 million. nearly
50% is covered by scholarships and donations, 20% from the income
producing commercial building on MeI grounds as rental property
($500,000), and 15% from the Melkonian endowment Fund
($4.600,000). Clearly, 85% is covered by the MeI. In this case, the total
deficit is not more than 15% of the budget. In the past, AGBu has never
paid a deficit more than $150 to 250,000 a year. You can verify those
individual figures through your accountant. I am sure you will be surprised to find the actual deficit of the Melkonian Institute. What happened to Mr. Setrakian's highly proclaimed AGBu transparency? We
have not seen it yet.
2. The MeI will continue to function as a boarding school facility as it has
been in the past.
I personally cannot understand Mr. Setrakian's declarations stated above and
his actions taken to weaken the school, reducing the number of student
enrollment, then attempting to close the school and prepare it for sale. This
is silent suicidal action. If AGBu doesn't have any financial problem, why
Please consider the irreparable damage that a decision to close the
Melkonian educational Institute or phase out the boarding school status
might cause to AGBu. We believe that AGBu's greatest asset is not its
physical properties or wealth, but the faith and confidence of its donors,
benefactors, and the Armenian people. Any decision contrary to the "Will"
will shake that faith and confidence in the leadership of AGBu.
I look forward to receive your comments and assurances that you will not
close MeI. In the meantime, I take this opportunity to express my appreciation, trust and confidence in the leadership of AGBu, our greatest organization in the world.
Respectfully yours
Zohrab Shamassian
MeI graduate 1951
[email protected]
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . k RikoR & v iCkY G uEdERiAN - PASAdENA , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
U
2
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Cypriot Armenians and Melkonian Students
Demonstrate Against AGBu’s Decision
no to the closure of Melkonian Institute
People of all ages demonstrate their opposition
Simerini Daily-March 25, 2004
By Stella Mourettou
nicosia-Graduates, parents and students of the school demonstrated their
opposition to the decision by the management committee of the AGBu to
terminate the operation of Melkonian Institute. One of the most touching
moments was when the whole of the Armenian Community sang, in front
of the monument of the Melkonian brothers, the school’s anthem and laid
a carnation. Present at the protest was the chairman of the House
education Committee Prodromos Prodromou, who said: “This is no time
to close schools, but to open them, especially today when we talk about
multicultural education.” Also present at the protest were representative of
the Armenian clergy, Bedros Kalaydjian, the press spokesman of
DYSI(Democratic Rally) Tasos Mitsopoulos, the press spokesman AKeL
Andros Kyprianou, the representative of the united Democrats Michalis
Pappetrou and the Mayor of Aglandjia Andreas Petrou.
“Am I Going to Graduate?”
“Armenians know when to stand up against school closures”
“Closing Armenian Schools is not a solution.”
“We will keep Melkonian School open.”
With Compliments of
H RAG k ESHiSHiAN , u NiquE v ERTiCAL b LiNdS & d RAPERY • (818) 353-0200
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
Nor Or Saturday, 3/20/04
U
M
0
N
I
0
I
N
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
O
N
A
L
4
Ha3 Mamovli E]eren ar2acancnyr` MGH6i ‘agman harxyrow
With Compliments of
b EN S HiRvANiAN , S HiRvAN R EALTY G RouP - b uRbANk , CA • (818) 569-4333
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
U
2
Nor Gyank 11/13/03
Educational Institute: Quo Vadis?
Recently, there have been some ugly rumors
about the future of Melkonian Education Institute
(MEI) in Cyprus, founded and funded by the
Melkonian brothers some 77 years ago, and managed
by the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU)
since its inception.
In the early days, the school used to house close
to 500 students, mostly orphans, survivors of the
genocide of 1915, who had somehow found their way
into Lebanon and Syria. Gradually, with the growth of
other Armenian communities in the Middle East, students from other countries were also attracted to MEI,
and smaller numbers of students started arriving from
Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, Ethiopia, Turkey, Greece, as
well as the local Cypriot Armenian community.
As the reputation of the school grew, in the
1950’s it stopped being regarded as an orphanage, and
some students were even charged tuition to attend
MEI, which up to that time had been free to all
Armenian students. In recent memory, school population has hovered around 240. Not having seen any
major promotion of MEI in neighboring countries, we
assume that this number was somehow an optimum
number that AGBU wanted to maintain.
The graduates usually returned to the countries
they had come from and served their communities as
teachers, businesspeople and community activists.
This meant that there was a yearly influx of MEI graduates in the major communities where most students
had come from, such as Beirut and Aleppo. In retrospect, we can see that the large number of MEI graduates working in the Syrian and Lebanese communities
may have led some in AGBU management to think
that Melkonian’s existence was justified on that basis
only.
As it should have been expected, the political
picture in the Middle East started changing. For many
years, the Syrian Armenian communities had been
weakening due to constant migration to Lebanon and
elsewhere, but the civil war in Lebanon was a definite
turning point. With over half its Armenian population
gone, Lebanon was no longer the vibrant cultural center it had.
The Islamic revolution of Iran and the Iran-Iraq
war had the same effect on the Iranian and Iraqi
Armenian communities. Several Arab-Israeli wars
and radical movements weakened the once thriving
communities of Jerusalem, Amman, Alexandria, and
Cairo.
Before we could all adjust to the changes in the
Middle East, we had the greatest surprise of all: The
collapse of the Soviet Union and the eventual independence of Armenia with an economy that was in
total ruins, resulting in the emigration of a million and
a half Armenians since independence. So, where does
that leave MEI in this new political and social picture
of the Middle East?
Apparently, some individuals at the AGBU, disappointed that the MEI is no longer serving the traditional communities of Beirut and Aleppo, feel that it
M
0
N
I
0
I
N
T
E
R
N
A
T
I
O
N
A
L
4
has no major task in the future, and perhaps it should
be turned into a small day school, serving the Cypriot
Armenian community. With an Armenian population
of just 2000 within driving distance of MEI, the
Cypriot Armenian community cannot maintain a secondary school. Therefore, such a plan must be considered a slow death sentence for the school.
From our perspective, we see a totally different
picture today, and we think that MEI has a bigger task
in the near future, and it its in an excellent position to
meet the new challenge. Yes, MEI is no longer needed for the well being of the Beirut and Aleppo communities. Besides, these communities, although
smaller than before, they are quite capable of taking
care of their won social and cultural needs, perhaps
with some help from the AGBU, ARS, and a handful
of sectarian organizations. Let us look at the neighboring countries. In the last 30 years, we have seen
the establishment of Armenian communities in
Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Abu-Dhabi, Dubai, and elsewhere in the Gulf States. These small communities
are financially self-sufficient but have no Armenian
educational facilities. Armenian students attend local
schools, speak Arabic and English and some conversational Armenian which they learn from their parents.
These students fit in very well with the educational
direction of MEI.
But, over the next two decades, Melkonian’s
true challenge lies elsewhere. With large migrations
from the Middle East and Armenia, we now face a different challenge in Europe, where new communities
are being formed, and older communities are coming
alive again.
Bulgaria is the first that comes to mind. After
several decades of sleep, the community has awakened, and Melkonian has already started servicing this
community. The communities in Rumania, though
slower to act, are starting to show signs of life again.
After 80 years, even the Armenian community of
Hungary is getting re-organized with a core of 900 or
so members, as a started. We also have a brand new
community in the Czech Republic, some estimate it to
be as large as 10,000. Similarly, new communities of
substantial size have formed in Spain with Migrants
from Armenia and the Middle East. Other communities in Germany, Poland, Belgium, Holland, Austria,
Switzerland, even the UK are getting bigger, not to
mention the traditionally large French Armenian communities. Recently, we have been watching as communities in Russia and the Ukraine have been reorganizing themselves.
Originally, Cyprus was chosen the site of MEI
because of the Political stability offered by the British
colony. At the time, English was not even the predominant language of communication in the world
(French had that honor). Today, with the advent of the
English language, MEI automatically takes over a far
more important role. Soon, Cyprus will become a full
member of the European Union (EU), and as part of
Europe, Cyprus will be culturally integrated into
Europe, and it will be considered normal for European
Armenians to take full advantage of education ser-
vices available in another EU country. Armenian families in Europe may actually prefer to send their children to MEI in Cyprus, so that the children also learn
English. The important issue for us is that they will
also learn Armenian, and they will learn it well. The
fact that some parents may be drawn to English-language education should not be used against MEI; quite
the contrary, it should be looked at as a bait and a selling point to promote our Armenian national interests.
Thus, once considered a Middle Eastern country, today Cyprus is becoming a European country.
Already, many Europeans know and love Cyprus, having vacationed on the island.
It is up to us to master the wisdom to recognize
the changing social and political conditions in the
Middle East and Europe and capitalize on the situation
using our best resources. And anyway we look at it,
Melkonian Educational Institute is the best weapon we
have to provide support to the Armenian communities
in Europe. MEI can still serve the traditional neighboring countries of Lebanon and Syria, but let us not
assume that that’s all that Melkonian is destined to do.
There is so much more to do in the new Europe!
And that brings us to the next point. Since the
independence of Armenia, the AGBU has been concentrating on activities in Armenia, and downplaying
its role elsewhere. There appears to be a desire to pull
back from managerial roles and a desire to turn the
AGBU into an efficient funds-dispending organization. If we are to meet the challenges I have outlined
above, there will be a huge management challenge that
cannot be handled in a half-hearted manner. There
must be a commitment to organize locally in every
community MEI is prepared to serve, and promotional activities must be undertaken in a serious manner.
In particular, special arrangements must be
made to enable students retain an acceptable level of
knowledge of their local languages. Over the years,
this has been the only negative point about MEI. After
spending their teenage years in Cyprus, graduates
returning to their home countries have not been able to
function in the local language and consequently have
looked for opportunities to live and work in Englishspeaking countries where they would not be linguistically disadvantaged. There was a time when MEI
graduates could lead a normal life in Lebanon (and
only Lebanon) if they did not have a working knowledge of Arabic, but even that is no longer an option,
which goes a long way to explain why Lebanese
Armenian students have been staying away from MEI.
We would like to think that the AGBU has no
intention to walk away from its managerial role
regarding MEI. But if there are any doubts about it,
we should recognize the problem and together with
the AGBU look for alternate means of managing the
school, always in pursuit of our national interests.
Two brothers with vision willed their lifetime earnings
to create and maintain this school. Those of us who
share their dream have the duty to ensure that we do
not stray away from their will.
– Nurel Beylerian
With Compliments of
A RTHuR Z AbouNiAN , CCTv A MERiCAN - L oS A NGELES , CA • (213) 623-5584
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
official announcment by AGbu Cb, New York, about the closure of the boarding School
of Melkonian Educational institute, in Cyprus.
Melkonian Educational institute to Close in June 2005
In the spirit of the discussion and analyses at the AGBu General Assembly meeting in October, 2002,
and consistent with the on-going assessment of our educational institutions and activities worldwide, the
Central Board has carefully evaluated AGBu programs in respect to their past achievements, current
challenges and future prospects. The Board has done so in furtherance of the goals of the organization
and its founding fathers.
The Melkonian educational Institute (MeI), as a significant and historical institution within AGBu, has
been a concern of the Central Board over many years. After extensive deliberations and thorough assessment, the Central Board has resolved unanimously to discontinue MeI in June 2005. This decision is
based largely on the Board’s conclusion that MeI no longer meets the challenges of its mission in the
present context of the Armenian world. The Board fully recognizes and honors the continued legacy of
the visionary Melkonian Brothers and is determined to perpetuate their memory through new educational programs to be implemented within and outside Cyprus, in line with the spirit of their donation to
AGBu.
Throughout its century-long history, AGBu has survived and thrived primarily because it has recognized
and addressed the needs of the Armenian people, taking bold and forward-looking initiatives in challenging times as necessary.
Louise Manoogian Simone, Chairman
nazar nazarian, Vice Chairman, Treasurer
Berge Setrakian, President
Sarkis Demirdjian, Vice President
Arshavir Gundjian, Vice President
Joseph Basralian, Secretary
M. Michael Ansour
Carol B. Aslanian
edouard Jakhian
Levon Kebabdjian
Richard Manoogian
Benon Sevan
Sam Simonian
Sinan Sinanian
Dickran Tevrizian
Karnig Yacoubian
new York
March 16, 2004
With Compliments of
d ikRAN M ARkARiAN , C AMPuS C LEANERS - i RviNE , CA • (949) 854-8020
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
M
0
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
MPs urge AGbu to Reconsider Melkonian Closure
AGBU Representative insults Armenian MP
3/25/04 AZG Daily
day-school, or enter into partnership with another school or
establish an Armenian department within another school.
Members of the House of Representatives education
Committee urged the Armenian General Benevolent union
Tuesday to reconsider its plans to close the Melkonian
school in June 2005 and asked that it remain open until all
the present students graduate.
“I call on you (AGBu) to immediately inform the House of
your plans, since at stake is the future education of 200 students and we don’t wish to see this uncertain situation continuing any longer,” said Committee Chairman Prodromou.
Deputies from all parties, headed by Committee Chairman
Prodromos Prodromou, grilled the AGBu’s “global” representative, Gordon Anderson, over plans to close the school.
Prodromou stated firmly that the House considers the
Melkonian a place of Armenian education and a part of the
cultural and national heritage of Cyprus.
The Committee Chairman issued a stern warning to the
AGBu to delay a final decision and consider resuming negotiations with the Cyprus community and others, such as the
local alumni association, over the school’s future.
Prodormou said that in the worst case, all presently enrolled
students should be allowed to complete their education, stating that otherwise the Cyprus parliament would view the
unilateral decision as a hostile act.
Prodromou also asked the AGBu to inform the House of its
immediate plans on the future of the school, in response to
explanations given by Anderson, claiming that the “AGBu
does not intend to sell the buildings, and instead is considering alternative options.”
DISY MP Ionas nicolaou and fellow lawmaker nicos
Tornaritis were not impressed by the explanation given,
reminding the AGBu representative that the two main buildings were in the process of being declared national heritage
buildings, which in any event does not allow their destruction.
“This is outrageous,” Tornaritis said, raising his voice to the
AGBu delegates.
nicolaou was highly critical of the strong-arm tactics used
by the AGBu to quash any opposition to the closure plan, by
preventing local Board members from expressing their dissatisfaction over the plans.
MPs were unimpressed by Anderson’s explanations that the
AGBu is considering turning the Melkonian either into a
A scathing attack unleashed by Anderson against Armenian
Representative, Bedros Kalaydjian who had brought the
issue before the Committee also backfired after many MPs
voiced their displeasure.
“I call on you to show respect,” Kalaydjian told Anderson
when the AGBu’s American official attempted to distort
facts presented by nareg elementary Schools board
Chairman, Dr. Vahak Atamyan, who had earlier testified that
most of this year’s graduating class of 22 pupils had
expressed an interest to enroll at the Melkonian.
Masis Der Parthogh, representing the interests of the Cyprus
Alumni and the Parents Coordinating Committee informed
deputies regarding the AGBu’s reluctance to enter into a dialogue with the worldwide Melkonian Alumni towards finding an acceptable solution, adding that the network of alumni associations is prepared to take charge of the school.
He asked the House to declare the Melkonian a national heritage foundation following the decision by the eu to recognise the Armenian language as one of the 54 languages of the
union, which Cyprus will join on May 1, and asked the MPs
to call on the Ministry of education to intervene in the whole
affair.
Der Parthogh’s call for the House to back a proposal submitted by the Green party to consider altering the current zoning of all the school’s lands, from commercial to green, was
received warmly.
AKeL and DIKO MPs promised that they would seriously
consider submitting a draft bill changing the zoning status of
the Melkonian property, in the event that the AGBu did not
come back with fresh proposals to find an acceptable solution.
The Cyprus Alumni has repeatedly warned that the real
motive behind AGBu’s decision to close the Melkonian is to
sell the land and whisk up to CYP 40 mln out of the country
for use for unspecified purposes.
With Compliments of
PAuL YALNEZiAN , R iGHT H oME - G LENdALE , CA • (818) 240-8440
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Letter to the Editor
THe CLOSuRe OF THe MeI BY THe AGBu CB
It seems that by their announced decision for the "closure" of the MeI, the AGBu CB have
engaged themselves in a multi-frontal attack against the strength of our Armenian existence, culture, identity and dignity.
It is worth looking at some of these battle-fronts and what they represent.
1) The closure of any Armenian school, let alone the MeI, constitutes an outright attack on
our nation, by breaking the relay of our cultural traditions to our future generations.
Our communication with the different Armenian communities around the globe has clearly
indicated to us that the Armenian people absolutely reject and condemn the AGBu's decision to
close the MeI.
This constitutes an attack on the present and future generations of our people. (Front no.1)
2) The decision of the closure constitutes an attack on the present and past students of the
MeI. Should we consider this to be acceptable practice and continue as if nothing happened? To
the CB of the AGBu such actions seem to be acceptable but not to us!
This is not only an attack against us but also against our "Homeland" the MeI, showing complete disregard and disrespect to our values. But then there seems to be a malaise among the proponents of "Close the MeI", to regard the Melkoniantsis as less than worthy academics.
The recent forum in Boston has again proved the disdain with which one participant, representing the AGBu's views, attacked the linguistic (english) capabilities of the MeI Alumni, portraying that view as one of the good enough reasons to close the MeI.
We have scrutinized all the "reasons" presented to the public for the closure. none of them
deserves any serious consideration..
I would like to clarify one point here regarding the criticism leveled at the use of the english
language in "Save Melkonian" forum.
For those born outside of english speaking countries, english is their second or third language. I would like to see those self-righteous critics speak and write Armenian as well as the
majority of the Melkoniantsis speak and write english. Applying the same criterion, those criticizing us at that level, would certainly fail the test of their own education. This line of criticism
betrays intellectual bankruptcy. (Front no.2)
3) The third battle-front is the legal battle in the courts.
The MeI World Alumni bent backwards to establish some kind of reasonable and meaningful dialogue with the CB of the AGBu to bring this issue to a constructive and amicable conclusion. We invariably faced either silence or denials that the MeI was to be closed, only to find
afterwards that they were planning its demise all along.
Therefore, constantly encountering this barrage of silence and diversion, followed by the
announcement of the closure, left the World Alumni! no choice, but the legal route. (Front no.3)
4) There is a responsibility that is assumed when a project is entrusted to a Charitable organization. In the case of the MeI, a substantial sum of funds and land came under the MAnAGeMenT of the AGBu with certain clear stipulations and not at all as the final or absolute owner
of this "donation". (See the Will/Trust.)
Closing the MeI ignores all such stipulations, creating a breach in the responsibility that is
inherent in the inheritance of the MeI and other projects with a "will" attached to them.
The battle will therefore be in the fight for securing future projects. (Front no.4)
Can any organization fight and win or survive on all such fronts? Many believe, absolutely
not!
In my opinion, given the circumstances created by the AGBu CB, the best solution to this
problem for all concerned will be, if the CB amicably transferred the entire MeI "package" without delay, including all! the original funds and subsequent donations, to Melkoniantsi
International, to organize and run the Institute as envisaged by its founders, the Melkonian brothers.
Asbarez 3/19/04
M
Armand Ayaltin
MelkonianAlumni, Vancouver, BC, Canada
With Compliments of
G ARY k AYouMJiAN , FARMERS i NSuRANCE - NEWPoRT
b EACH , CA • (949) 851-9303
MAI Newsletter June, 2004 / 15
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
4
on the Lighter Side...
(from www.savemelkonian.org)
I
E
N
D
S
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
on the Lighter Side... (from www.savemelkonian.org)
With Compliments of
S idoN T RAvEL & T ouRiSM - G LENdALE , CA
1-800-826-7960 • Tel: 818-553-0777
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
M
0
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Class Notes
Dig7 Ani La[inyan6Magaryani A3xylov;ivnu` Barsgasdan
Anxno. #ovlis amsovan wyr]avorov;yan5 meg ,apa;ovan
gyxov;yamp Barsgasdani :yhran yv Sbahan ka.aknyru
ba,d0nagan a3xylov;ivnnyr dovav Dig7 Ani
La[inyan6Magaryan1 Anor clqavor nbadagn er Mylconyanu
/an0;axnyl barsgaha3 ca.ov;in5 yv bedk e usyl or ir
a3xylov;ivnu artivnaved y.av5 yv garyli y.av ar2anacryl ,ovr]
!º nor a,agyrdnyr5 a3sbisow barsgaha3 a,agyrdnyrovn ;ivu
hasxnylow ™&6i1
Dig7 Ani La[inyan6Magaryan hantibovmnyr ovnyxav :yhrani
Gibrosi tysbanin5 Ha3ox :ymi A-a]nort` Sybovh Ybs7
Sarcisyanin yv 8Alik9 qmpacrov;yan hyd5 in[bes nayv H7P7U7
Miov;yan Gytronnin me] Mylconyanu dysyrizow mu /an0;axnylov
nbadagow5 an hantibyxav ha3 hama3nki antamnyrovn hyd1
A3s ngaru Civmri6i arovysdi a,qadanoxu5 ovr Brn7
Abcaryanu gu .ygaware 8Cohar9 yrc[aqovmpu yv
baraqovmpu1
#adovg mi kani Mylconyanxinyrov hamar hamyrc mu
gazmagyrba/ er1 Paxa-ig a-i; mu y.av zirar dysnylov5
!(&º6agan syrovnti a,agyrdnyr yv wyrumpo,qnylov
Abcaryani arovysdu or usd soworagani paxa-ig
p/aqntrov;yamp badrasdova/ er1
Abcaryanin ovraqov;ivnu myr polorin hocinnyru
hantardyxovx orowhydyv an` g\une in[ or gu sire yv ar=ani
e a3t iryn drova/ a-i;in1
A3s ngarin me] Zy’iv- #owhanesyan5 Syboh Apcaryan5
Ara Arabyan5 :owmas Zacaryan yv <norhig Al;ovn1
Der yv Digin Zaven Berberyannyrovn dovnu hravirova/ qovmp mu
Mylconyanxi parygamnyr7 Nsda/ 2aqen a] Helena yv Zaven Berberyannyr
Ani La[inyani i badiv ja,gyro3;en ngar mu6Tygdympyr 2002
Jirair Magarian, Former Chairman of California Melkonian Alumni is
handling Chairmanship plaque to Hagop Hayrabedian as Chairman during 2001 in appreciation of his devoted time and effort for the benefit of
California Melkonian Alumni.
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
U
2
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Class Notes
Group of Melkoniantsis at the Annual Picnic in La Crescenta, Ca.
Garen Avedikian showing his Greek dancing skills.
Tashdjians & friends at the Melkonian Banquet in Glendale, CA.
From left to right standing: Thomas Zakarian, Cairo, egypt, Zepur
Ohannessian, Orange County, u.S.A, Shenorhig Altoon, Istanbul, Turkey,
Ara Arabian, Arizona, u.S.A. Dikran Altoon, Istanbul, Turkey, and seated, Hrach Djerahian, London, england
Melkoniantsis at the backgammon tournament in La Crescenta, CA.
Melkonian Alumni and Friends has a new web site: www.melkonianforever.org
Check it out!
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
M
0
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Class Notes
Letter From Lebanon
Dear fellow Armenians & Melkoniantsiner across the world and specially in MeI.
On behalf of many in Lebanon, we salute you. I had goose bumps when
I saw all those pics; the Armenian spirit and sense of belonging never
left MeI no matter the used means to break it.
Do not be afraid, for better or worse, we – Melkoniantsi stay together.
no matter to what nationality we belong, we must not forget who we
are, where we were and where we’re headed. That’s why we’ve got
schools and Institutes like MeI, actually there’s only 1 institute like MeI
and that’s the one and only
A group of new committee members Melkonian
Alumni in Lebanon. Standing L to R: Maro
Nercessian, Taline Babikian, Serop Apoian
(Chairman). Seated L to R: Tomy, Nineli
Khanian (USA), Shake Toumaian.
Genatz polor ashagerdoutian that day will never be forgotten in history,
history never forgets and never forgives. everywhere hundreds are raising their questions, concerns, and doubts about current AGBu CB’s
decision. Don’t get distracted but get focused on the big picture.
Melkonian, is not an ordinary school, Melkonian isn’t a play ground,
Melkonian isn’t whatever people claim it to be.
Melkonian is an institute with all the facilities given to every day and
boarding student. Having a “IAn” at the end of the name doesn’t make
someone an Armenian. It takes much more than that. I am sure you all know what it is that puts us apart from other cultures it’s our own history, heritage, culture and language. Just like every other nation. We have uniqueness and that alone is handed
out with open palm in MeI through its years of experience and knowledge of the teachers. 24/7 constant care and attention and
in a country that holds its own culture and family values on top of their priorities; it’s the least I can say of Cyprus.
What you have and are given in MeI, you won’t find in any other school. If you are a parent reading this, believe me, you
send a child to MeI and get a full grown matured son or daughter back. It’s because of whatever I personally learned and lived
there, I can for a fact say, if I stayed in any one of the schools in my own country, I wouldn’t have gotten the feeling and
knowledge that I belong to a history and that I’m part of that history.
The current and all the ones who passed from MeI, are part of history, the part that no one can let go or forget. The part that
some people may get jealous of simply because they don’t know what it is they miss so that they would appreciate it.
The fact that the demo was done, shows that the legacy is alive and MeI is very much at its top shape in meeting with every
single challenge of the day if only people could see it that way...even if the challenge is coming from CB.
The Melkonian spirit is alive and kicking, don’t despair, we’re all in this together.
There are a lot of bumps ahead, every fall has a rise, and with every rise a lesson is learned. What doesn’t kill you makes you
stronger. It makes you follow through the legacy that the
Melkonian brothers left, head up, with pride you can walk down
the street and say you’ve been Armenian-ized in Melkonian.
Parents, thank you for entrusting your children in Melkonian
educational Institute. I hope one day I’m able to do what I
believe took a lot of courage and trust in the MeI legacy, to send
your children away from you. I hope they all get their diplomas,
cause for sure they deserve it - you deserve it!
A big Thanks to my teachers too!
Taline Babikian
MI Lebanon
1993 graduate
Beirut Lebanon
A trip to South Lebanon by Melkonian Alumni group.
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
M
0
N
I
0
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Class Notes
*
*
*
*
I and my husband, Red, who is a businessman, had met in Iran in the spring of 1996
and knew we were to be together, so we
got married in the same year and then I
came here, to London, as he was already
living here. We have a son called Kelvin
who is 4. I was working as an accountant
before (thanks to Miss Azniv Papazian,
my accounting teacher in Melkonian), but
now I am teaching english at home. I
want to say to all my classmates in
Melkonian and to all those that I have
shared laughter and tears; I have missed
you and think that it would be great if we
arrange a reunion for class of 1992.
Allen >aribyan amovsnaxa/ Armine
I,;oyanin hyd yv paqdavorova/ yn
man[ zavagow mu5 De3wid ™ darygan1
Allenu Mylconyan 2ca/ e !((º6in yv
ir par2raco3n ovsovmu ,arovnagylow
Los Anjelusi hamalsarannyrovn me]5
Adamnapov=ov;yan wga3agan gu
sdana3 ov nyrga3is sy’aganadern
e yrgov crasynyagnyrov5 darpyr
wa3ryrov me]1 Allenu Californio3
Sanovxi War[agan antam er1
Elvin Gasparian (1992), London
*
*
*
*
I am currently living in Los Angeles and I
am married now for almost a year with
Megerdich Daghelian. We met in Lebanon
and I decided to move to America with
him.
Armig Dadoorian-Daghelian (1993)
8 September 2002
Newlywed: nadia Ayaltin, married to Mr.
Aidinian.
Newlywed: I got married to Stavros Lerias
on novembwer 5, 2001 in Filerimos
Church in Rhodes, Greece. We are living
in Greece. I wish you all the luck in finding your “other half”, as in these days it is
very hard to do so. Married life is good
and fun, when you are with the right person who understands, respects and appreciates you and vise versa. Good luck.
Alin Jalian (1993)
Here are some of the names (randomly put) of the MeI’tsi
who were present, the Mesrobians, the Apoyans, the
Bajakians, the emirians, the Seropians, the Mississians, the
Djabarians, Shake, Barouyr, Tommy, Mgrditch (known to us
as Mgoutch), Saro, and many others.
The Trip to South Lebanon
A trip to south lebanon was our destination this year.
Sightseeing and being at historical places through the ancient
times till our modern day of history.
Castles and areas as old as history can remember from Kana,
where Jesus made the miracle of turning water to wine, and
the memorial of Lebanese victims of the war, to Sidon
(known as Saida) and Tyr (known as Sour) cities that have
been visited by crusaders and many others who followed and
have passed through these ancient cities of Lebanon.
We were more over then sixty people, Mekoniantsi and their
respective families and friends, together, adding up another
page in our album.
The trip was organized by the MeI alumni Lebanon, and we
thank all who helped and joined us to make this trip possible.
More than this being a trip, it was a get together for all of us,
catching up with each others news and taking a backward
glance to our days in MeI, each in his own generation, going
over our adventires, no matter how funny, how painful, how
silly , how happy, how sad... they made us feel, but they
remain happy memories, cherished and passed over to the
coming generations not just some memoirs to be heard, but
experiences that may help the ones who will step foot in the
institution and later step into life, with enough MeI stregth,
to help to stand out. To be Melkoniantsi.
Taline Babikian
MeI Graduate 1992-1993
Beirut
Lebanon
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . Z AvEN & H ELEN b ERbERiAN
MAI Newsletter OCTOBeR, 1997/ 21
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
S0si Bydigyani An=amanag Gorovsdu
™^ #ovnovar5 ™ºº™6in5 myzme a-3aved hy-axav naqgin dn0renovhi5 pazmawasdag gr;agan m,ag5
mdavoragan5 yv ha3 m,ago3;i cor/i[ Dig7 S0si Bydigyanu1
!(%º6in S0si Bo3ajyan ,r]anavard g\ullar H7P7U7 Miov;yan antranig gr;0jaq` Mylconyan
Gr;agan Hasdadov;ynen5 orbes cyrazanxig ovsano.ovhi1
Be3rov;i Amyrigyan Hamalsarani me] orbes kimiacidov;yan pa=anmovnki ovsano.5 an arten
isg gu sgser ba,d0nawaryl H7P7U7 Miov;yan Tarovhi #agopyan A.]ganx war=aranen nyrs
orbes cidov;yan yv ovso.ov;yan ovsovx[ovhi1 Aba5 !(^*6in an gu sdan2ner no3n war=arani
dn0renovhii ba,d0nu5 za3n warylov min[yv !(&^5 ampo.]agan novirovmow5 2y-nhasov;yamp yv
gr;agan m,agi cyraco3n cidagxov;yamp1
S0si Bo3ajyan ir undanygan po3nu gazma/ er !(%£6in5 yridasart mdavoragan5 ovsovxi[ yv
pnasdy./ Warov=an Bydigyani hyd1 Anonk paqdavorova/ ein yrgov man[ zavagnyrow` Raffi yv
Ara1
!(&^6in5 H7P7U7 Miov;yan naqacah Diar Alyk Manovgyani a-a]argow Dig7 Bydigyan Be3rov;en
gu wyrata-nar ir /nntawa3ru5 Gibros5 sdan2nylov Mylconyan Gr;agan Hasdadov;yan dn0reni
ba,d0nu1 Anor 0row Mylconyanu ,arovnagyx an2anacryl ‘a3lovn 3a]o.ov;ivnnyr o4[ mia3n ovsovmnagn marzen nyrs5 a3lyv ha3yxi tasdiaragov;yan pnacava-en nyrs5 ovr an a,agyrdnyrovn
‘oqanxyx myr azca3in ov m,agov;a3inn ar=eknyru5 ha3ryniki seru yv ha3 ullalov hbardov;ivnu1
Orbes dn0renovhi5 artaramid yv qsdabahan] 8yrga;ya3 Digin9n er an1 Saga3n ir undanygan
yv ungyra3in 3arapyrov;yanx me] an gu xovxapyrer aznovov;ivn5 garygxov;ivn yv ser1
Mylconyani dn0renov;yan ir ba,d0ni avarden ydk5 !(*%6en min[yv ™ºº!5 an ,arovnagyx
ba,d0nawaryl Mylconyanen nyrs orbes Ha3ox Badmov;yan tasadov1 A3t hancamankow an ir
a,agyrdnyrovn dovav azca3in a-o.] tasdiaragov;ivn5 ‘oqanxylow anonx myr azca3in ov
m,agov;a3in harovsd =a-ancov;ivnu5 hrahrylow ha3rynasirov;yan gragu anonx hocinyrovn me]5 yv
ha.ortagix tar2nylow zirynk myr azca3in dacnabnyrovvn ov yraznyrovn1 A3t darinyrovn an
badrasdyx Ha3ox Badmov;yan tasacirkyrov ,ark mu5 wyx hadornyre pa.gaxa/5 ornk darove
dri wyram,agylow hasxovx hradaragov;yan badrasd wijagi1
Dig7 S0si Bydigyan %º darin ampo.] /a-a3yx ha3 tbroxin ov m,ago3;in5 badrasdylow
pazma;iv syrovntnyr H7P7U7 Miov;yan ortycra/ sgzpovnknyrow5 anonx me] syrmanylow paro3agan
ar=eknyrov qor cidagxov;ivnn5 martg3in a-a6 kinov;ivnnyr5 yv azca3in /a-a3ov;yan badrasdagamov;ivn1
Mygnyxav a3s a,qarhen5 an=amanag5 ir hyd danylow anavard yraznyr5 i.2yr yv [iracor/ova/
/racirnyr1
Tarovhixi yv Mylconyanxi harivravor a,agyrdnyr5 cor/agixnyr5 harazadnyr yv parygamnyr
yrgiv.a/ov;yamp gu qonarhin anor an;a-am 3i,adagin ov was6 dagin a-]yv1 An bidi ,arovnage abril sirdyrovn me] dagavin yrgar darinyr1
Ceorc #agopyan
H7P7U7M7 Manovgyan6Dymirjyan War=arani Cidagan Pa=anmovnki Wari[
22 / MAI Newsletter OCTOBeR, 1997
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
Nor Or 10/25/03
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Nor Or 3/27/04
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Mr. Gordon Anderson is the sole representative of AGBU CB to study the MEI case
and make arrangements to close the school and sell the property in Cyprus.
Melkonian Alumni Association of Cyprus
89 - 91 Prodromos Ave.,
Strovolos 2063
Nicosia Cyprus
Tel. +357 2267 8666 Fax. +357 2267 8664
Mr. Gordon Anderson
Consultant
Armenian General Benevolent union
nicosia
May 17, 2004
Dear Mr. Anderson
It has come to our attention that despite the passage of two months from the date when the House of Representatives of Cyprus
issued a resolution regarding the A.G.B.u. plans to close the Melkonian educational Institute, whereby the House education
Committee and the House plenary session:
-- expressed indignation and protest over plans to close the school;
-- considered as “unacceptable” any plans to hamper Armenian education in Cyprus;
-- condemned any effort to change the school premises and trust of the Melkonian brothers;
and,
-- called on the AGBu to suspend any relevant decision and enter into a constructive dialogue with representatives of the
Armenian community of Cyprus and those with a direct interest (teachers, parents, alumni) as well as the Cyprus authorities;
-- called on the AGBu to review constructively the proposals of the interested parties to operate the school under their responsibility;
-- called on the government to declare the historical buildings as a protected site and the whole of the Melkonian Institute
grounds as a site of historical and cultural importance;
-- called on the Government of Cyprus to prevent the implementation of the fait accompli that the administrators in new York
are attempting to realise;
and,
-- expected of the Government of Cyprus to reinforce the school, in order to ensure its operation under the control of the
Armenians of Cyprus and their representative bodies;
neither yourself, as AGBu representative in Cyprus, nor any other officer of the aforementioned organisation, has entered into any
dialogue with any representative of the community, in violation of the House of Representatives resolution.
Furthermore, we urge you to reconsider this disregard of the House of Representatives, the Ministry of education, the Armenian
Community of Cyprus and the Melkonian Alumni and ask you to agree on the earliest possible date this month to discuss the future
of the Melkonian educational Institute.
Respectfully
Shavasb Bohdjalian
Chairman
cc.:
Masis der Parthogh
Vice Chairman
Mr. Demetris Christofias, President, House of Representatives
Mr. Ionas nicolaou, Acting President, House education Committee
Mr. Bedros Kalaydjian, Member, House of Representatives
Mr. Petros Kareklas, Director General, Ministry of education
Central Board, Armenian General Benevolent union, new York
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
L
2
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
8Cohar9 Simfonik Novacaqovmp6Yrc[aqovmpi Annaqun;ax Hamyrcnyru
Anxno. #ovnis !6in` Nigosio3 me]5 yv aba #ovnis &6(` Be3rov;i me[ irara3a]ort hamyrcnyrow ylo3; ovnyxav 8Cohar9
simfonik novacaqovmp6yrc[aqovmpu5 qmpawarov;yamp wasdaga,ad arovysdaced yv Mylconyan Gr;agan
Hasdadov;yan yraqdavor yv yrgaramya3 ovsovxi[` Brn7 Sybovh Apcaryani1
Ha3 mamovlu la3n0ren an2acanca/ e wyro3i,yal hamyrcnyrovn masin5 ovrge yv gu me]pyrynk oro, hadova/nyr`
3abavovmnyrow1
8Lipananaha3 m,agov;aser hasaragov;yan hamar hajyli nyrga3ov;ivn y.av ha3ryni Givmri ka.aki 8Cohar9
simfonik novacaqovmp6yrc[aqovmpu5 or Be3rov;i gytorni 8Biel9 hantisasrahin me] ir 3a]ortagan yryk ylo3;nyrow
ygav abaxovxanylov5 or Ha3asdani arovysdaser ov arovysdaced syrovntu5 haga-ag pazovm t=ovarov;yanx5 gu
,arovnage qantawa-ovil ov qantawa-yl ha3 yra=,daser hasaragov;ivnu` 3anovn ha3 yrci ov arovysdi
ban/axman91 •8Gan[9 ,apa;a;yr;5 Be3rov;ª
8777 Pa3x clqavor5 my/aco3nn anagngalu5 zor bdjayx myzi 8Cohar9u #ovnis &6i a3t ci,yr5 y.av ir myz ha.ortagix
tar2nylu ha3 isgagan5 zdarivn5 angy./ ov anqartaq yrcn ov novacin5 yra=,dov;yan ov barin5 orovn /aravn gu
zcank a3s0r91 •8Na3iri9 ,apa;a;yr;5 Be3rov;ª
8Yrygon5 or isgabes annaqun;ax e ir cy.arovysdagan magartagow5 arovysdi darpyr =anryrov nyrta,nag
hamatrov;yamp anmo-anali bidi mna35 wsdahapar5 polorinn 3i,o.ov;yan me]5 orovnn hamar myr qorin
cnahadanku gu 3a3dnynk qmpawar5 cy.arovysdagan .ygawar Sybovh Apcaryani5 8Cohar9 yrc[aqovmpin ov
simfonik novacaqovmpin5 mynagadarnyrovn5 barovhinyrovn yv mn]aqa.axin1 Wyr]abes5 angy./ yraqdacidov;ivn`
a3s ampo.] /raciru howanavoro. s’iv-kaha3 paryrar y.pa3rnyrovn •<ahe5 Nar yv #arov;ivn Qa[adovryn6 Qmp7ª5
oronk irynx ha3rynasiragan ararkow 3iravi sdy./a/ yn m,agov;a3in osgya3 gamovr] mu s’iv-ki yv Ha3asdani
mi]yv91
•8”aros9 yrgamsya35 Nigosiaª
Yv wyr]abes ah4a MGH4i Ka3lyrcin
wyr]in ka-3agu1 Hima a3lyvs
=amanagn e za3n yrcylov777
Yraqdabard Zavagny4rt ynk5 harazad5
Gov- ,arkyrow bid4 ba3karink anwuhad5
Yv [\;o.ovnk or H7P7U7M76u an0ren
Anmah Lovso3 sovrp Dajarn a3l ka3ka3yn777
G7 Casabyan
Los Anjelus +amanovmin A-;iv
?irani /owin /oxen /na/
Hra,acy. ov Hovrhyr wahacni nman
Gu 3a3dnovis myzi a3s0r
Hin 0ryren hamyxo.
Cantag cy.agyrd5
Hawyr=agan
<ar=ovmi5 @yvi ov @a3ni777
Ov zyr; cini lovsa,o.
Ov.q0ren
Gu pa,qovis hima myzi
)~h Sybovh Apcaryan
Gar0 Casabyan
With Compliments of
A RMAN A dAMiAN , M ooRAdiAN & A SHikiAN , LLP - L oS A NGELES , CA • (213) 351-9796
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Editor continued from page 2
haryvanxi0ren anxnylov1
Unthaga-agu5 a-i;en 0cdovylow5
g\ovzynk
myr
masnavor
cnahadanki q0sku usyl min[yv
naqort ;ivu 2001-in qmpacro.5
Brn7 Asbed “o.aryanin5 !(*ºi
,r]anavard5 or an,ahaqntir
gyrbow yv anha,iv =am yr
dramatrylow lo3s pyrav
Dy.ygadovi m0d hinc darova3
;ivyru1 Nyrga3is5 an2nagan
badja-nyrow qmpaciri
ba,d0nu bidi [grna3 gadaryl1
Mylconyanu poloris srdin
me] masnavorr dy. mu gu crave yv
adiga cry;e anpaxadryli
zcaxovm mun e5 saga3n a3s0r5
avyli kan wa.u5 Mylconyan
Gr;agan Hasdadov;ivnu bedk
ovni
m yr
ivrakan[ivrin
anhadagan nyrtrovm in yv
tragan gyxova/kin1 Mylconyani
a-akylov;ivnu yzagi e yv
an’oqarinyli s’iv-kaha3
iraganov;yan me]1
A3s nyrga3 paxa-ig ;ivu5
a-a]in ancam ullalow gu
hradaragovi
noragazm
Mylconyan
Sanovx
yv
Parygamnyr Miov;yan go.me5
Glende3l ka.akin me]1 A3s ;ivin
me] tovk bidi ngadek myr ha3
mamovli
ar2acancu
yv
arqiva3in
badmagan
30tova/nyr i nbasd MGH6i
badmagan ,y,dovmu anor
anhra=y,dov;yanu ov ir
co3ov;yan garyvorov;ivnu
ardasahmani ha3ov;yan
azcabahbanman hamar1
HPU Miov;yan gytronagan
=o.owu Mard !^5 ™ºº$6i
ba,d0nagan 3a3dararov;yamp
gu 3a3dnyn irynx oro,ovmu ;e
Mylconyan Gr;agan
Hasdadov;yan Ci,yr0;igi
pa=inu bidi ‘agyn cal dari
#ovnis %5 ™ºº%6in1 A3s 0ryrovn5
hamas’ivMylconyanxinyrov
srdyru
q-owa/
yn5
Mylconyanxinyr odki yla/5
m iasnagam5 gu ba,dbanyn
MGH6i co3ov;ivnu qntrylow HPU
Miov;yan Gytronagan Marmnen
wyrar=yvoryl
irynx
oro,ovmu1
Hama’iv- polor sanovxnyrov
po.oknnyru yv ba3karu ov..ova/
yn HPUM6i nyrga3 war[ov;yan
anqohym orov,ovmin tem1 A3s [i
n,anagyr or g\andysynk HPUM6i
m0d harivramya3 badga-yli
tyru5 anor mi]azca3in
anzovcagan hy.inaganov;ivnu yv
azcin ;e s’iv-ki ha3ov;yan yv
;e ha3ryniki gariknyrovn1 Gu
xavink garc mu gdagnyrov
inknagam ‘o’oqov;ivnu or
badja- gu ta-na3 abaca3
gdagararnyrov ‘aqovsdin1
I wyr]o35 siryli un;yrxo.nyr5
gu
‘a’akink
dysnyl5
or
ivrakan[ivr Mylconyanxi ir
paro3agan bardkn sybe
niv;abes
0=antagylov
Dy.ygadovin5 nyr’ag baharanu
cor/a/ylow5 kani or anor
,arovnagaganov;ivnu a3s 0ryrovn
masnavorapar gaqova/ e myzme1
Lradovn bidi gadare ir tyru
lovsapanylow
polor
Mylconyanxinyru5 Mylconyan
Sanovxnyrov
a-0rya3
cor/ovneov;yanx ,ovr]1
Institute and the Melkonian funds
throughout its stewardship?
tinized in detail. no stone shall be
left unturned.
Z0hrab <ammasyan
Qmpacir yv hradaragi[
Continued from page 2
have written, we have dissented, we
have protested, we have been misled, we have been lied to, and now
we have been cornered. We have
exploited all civil, courteous and
friendly avenues. We will now stop
at nothing. All bets are off and
everything is fair game. We have
done our part and no one should
blame us for the methods we use.
The areas of investigation will
encompass, but will not be limited
to, all of the following:
• How has the AGBu managed or
mismanaged the Melkonian
• Is AGBu beyond reproach?
• Were trust funds handled in the
proper manner?
• What was the initial intent of the
Melkonian brothers?
From Alexandria where the
founders lived, to Cyprus, to
Constantinople, to Lausanne, France
and then to new York, the paper
trails and the transfers of Melkonian
funds shall be investigated and scru-
From Argentina to Arabia, from
Los Angeles to Limassol we stand
united. We are not wavering. We're
going all the way and let the chips
fall where they may: we are ready.
Let every community get organized, let every community speak in
unison behind their leadership, let's
all contribute as much as we can, in
any way we can. We shall prevail.
The odds are all in our favor. They
HAVe underestimated what we are
all about!
Melkonian Alumni & Friends
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . L EvoN & k ATHY G AZARiAN - A RCAdiA , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . H ERMAN & L uCY M ENENdiAN
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
With Compliments of
M R . & M RS . R AFFi & S oNA Z iNZALiAN - L A v ERNE , CA
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
continued on page 30
With Compliments of
H&S W iNdoW C ovERiNG - S ETRAk & L ENA d AdouRiAN • (909) 670-2929
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
continued from page 29
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
4
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
M
E
L
K
O
N
I
A
N
A
2
L
U
0
M
N
0
I
A
N
D
F
R
I
E
N
D
S
4
Mynk bidi [‘a’akink dysnyl H7P7U7 Miov;yan harivramyagu ta-na3 ir isg angman sgizpu1 Aganadys g\ullank ir ga-o3xi
jarjardovmnyrovn7 masnajiv.yru sgsa/ yn cancadil Mylconyanu ‘agylov oro,ovmin a-i;ow yv g\incnalov/ovin gytroni anqohym
oro,ovmin badja-ow1 A3s0r Byljikan5 wa.u Zovixyryan5 aba Gibros5 #ovnasdan5 Avsdralia5 yva3ln •wyr]in yryk yrgirnyrovn
war[ov;ivnnyru Mylconyan Sanyrovn .ygawarov;yan dag gu cdnovinª1
Qmpacrov;ivn
Dear Board Member
As an AGBu Chapter, it has been difficult for us to witness all that has been transpiring in recent months regarding the Melkonian
educational Institute (MeI). As a Chapter in close proximity to the MeI, we were never exposed to the fact that it was in great difficulty,
and that it had been a subject of discussion during a number of Board meetings (about which we later learned that there was no great need
for discussion). As an AGBu Chapter, it is difficult for us to react against the decisions of a Board that undertakes such decisions in an
opaque, top-down manner, unfortunately, this happens to be the Board of the same organization that we have been serving, so diligently for
so many years now, never depending financially, but instead, raised hundreds of thousands of francs from our members and friends at large
in Switzerland, for different projects, whether in Switzerland or elsewhere including Armenia.
As a responsible AGBu Chapter, we now feel the need to express our opinion against our Board, which no longer is a true or effective
representative of it's so-called "members". Membership was denied to AGBu "members", after a surprise change of statutes at a General
Assembly meeting in Los Angeles in 1996. Was our Board at that time preparing for such moves as the sale of the MeI? Did our Board subvert the position of it's faithful subsidiaries? Did our Board fool it's members? Regardless of whether or not there is truth to this statement,
the fact of the matter remains that AGBu must now deal with what is a widely shared negative perception surrounding it's actions: The
AGBu Board alone has been directly responsible for creating this perception.
As an AGBu Chapter, we write this letter in order to convey our protest to the members of the AGBu Board, The MeI should not be
sold. Why did the Board not warn it's members at large that there was a problem with MeI? Why was a special Committee not formed with a
few "wise" men and women, to figure out a saving scheme? Why was the advice of one of it's emerit Members, in the name of Mr.
Haygachen Ouzounian not taken? After all, it was he and Mr. Aram Kalaydjian, who built the only income-producing building that the
AGBu has worldwide, on the grounds of the MeI, in order to secure a sufficient income for the institution. In his first article, there are a few
suggestions for saving the MeI, none appear to have been duly considered.
What is the ulterior motive of our Board in the sale of the Melkonian? The lack of clearly applied logic and problem solving lo this
issue leaves the critical mind with few viable explanations to consider; how could this issue be solely one about money? This would be simply too crude vis-avis the honorable legacy of the AGBu that we have served for so many years.
It is stated in the AGBu position paper that the income from the sale of the MeI (once it has been sold, of course), will be re-directed
toward opening programs (like a camp) in Armenia. Why has there been no consideration of dispensing with Camp nubar, since whoever
comes out from Camp nubar does not speak any better Armenian than when they go in? Camp nubar is not serving much of an overarching
purpose either, if you look at it relative to the official rationale that you apply to the closure of the MeT. It is Serving the kids of a few wellto-do families who do not know what To do with their kids in the summers. Sell Camp nubar and transfer it to Armenia. This is the kind of
alternative that we believe has been considered - and these are the type of questions that should be posed before dispensing with a gem like
the Me1. All the many lifelong, loyal people who have served AGBu, and more importantly - given their money to AGBu — should have
been notified, included and considered. MeI can and will serve many, many Armenian children of not so well-to-do families, who have a
hope of growing up in an Armenian environment, speaking and reading our language. no matter what is said today in europe (and elsewhere) we believe this is still critically important. We have a Western Armenian language that should be preserved, disseminated and perpetuated.
Administrative changes should most definitely be implemented. Once again, our Board should be held responsible for this because they
never really took the effort to effectuate checks and balances on its present administration, It is so easy to close and sell everything and
walk away, but the contrary is the Challenge — and we cannot imagine any president or board who could walk away from such a challenge!
It is a shame for our name, and a shame for the greatest institution of the Diaspora — the AGBu. Once such schools are closed, specially schools in which the Armenian language is a critical tool, the average existing (as well as potential future) donor has every right to ask:
of what use is the AGBu?
Our Swiss Chapter is willing to give part of it's yearly benefit toward the continuity of the MeI, So far we have contributed on an annual basis, taking care of the tuition of a few students. now that we have been advised of this critical situation, we are presenting our willingness to do much more. We firmly believe that had the AGBu chapters all over the world been properly, responsibly and clearly advised of
the "problem" of MeI, the current situation and uproar would not exist today, and our total support of yourself Mr. Setrakian and your entire
Board would have been constructive and overwhelming. Such a huge world-wide uproar has never been seen before in the AGBu. Shouldn't
the public opinion (member-opinion) be taken into consideration, or are we living in a dictatorial environment, so un-democratic!
unfortunately, today we have lost a member of the AGBu family in europe, namely the Belgian Chapter and it's President, Mr. Vartkess
Knadjian, who has resigned extremely disappointed and discouraged by the Board. We will be thinking now of what future steps we should
be taking for our future. Things are not looking bright for the AGBu, it is unfortunate to say.
On behalf of the
Swiss Chapter of the AGBu
M
2
0
0
4
E
L
K
A
O
N
N
I
D
A
F
N
R
A
I
E
L
N
U
D
M
N
S
d o N A T i o N S
N
E
W
S
L
E
T
T
E
R
F
u
N
d
California Melkonian Alumni,
Melkonian Alumni, Lebanon,
Hratch Kassabian, California,
Herman & Lucy Menendian, California,
Raffi & Sona Zinzalian, California,
Paul Yalnezian, Right Home, California,
Sidon Travel & Tourism, California
Varoujan Boghossian, California,
Hratch & Ashkhen Arzoomanian, uSA
Garabed & Agavni Armoudian, uSA
Hratch Pogharian, uSA
Rev. untzag nalbandian
Dr. Haig Alexanian, Italy,
Osep Ouzounian, uSA
$1,000.00
$300.00
$130.00
$ 125.00
$125.00
$125.00
$125.00
$125.00
$ 100.00
$100.00
$50.00
$25.00
$25.00
$25.00
ToTAL
$2,250.00
Dok;7 #arov; Mysrobyan Gu Hasdade Gr;a;o,agi Himnatram
I #i,adag Ir Wa.amy-ig M0ry.p0r Manovg Cov3ovmjyani
Dok;7 #arov; Mysrobyan Mylconyan Gr;7 Hasdadov;ynen ,r]anavard y.a/ e !(&^6in orbes
cyrazanxig ovsano.1 An ir p=,gagan ovsman un;axku avardyle ydk Yryvani Bydagan
Hamalsaranin me]5 masnacidanalov hamar mygna/ e Miaxyal Nahancnyr5 ovr wga3ova/ e orbes
srdapan (cardiologist)1
Dok;7 Mysrobyan ir undanygan po3nu gazma/ e p=,govhii _i;a Ho3igyani hyd1 Anonk paqdavorova/
yn yrgov sirovn tovsdryrow5 Da;yvig yv Arin5 oronk gu 3ajaqyn H7P7U7M7 Manovgyan6Demirjyan
war=aranu1
Dok;7 Mysrobyan jan[xova/ yv 3arcova/ p=i,g mun e Los Anjylusii ha3 hama3nkin me]5 in[bes nayv
0dar ,r]anagnyrov me]1 Amyna3n badrasdagamov;yamp an 0cnov;yan gu hasni o[ mia3n ir
Mylconyanxi ovsovxi[nyrovn yv tbroxagixnyrovn5 a3l polor anonx` oronk bedk g\ovnynan ir p=,gagan
qnamkin1
Orbes yraqdaced Mylconyanxi5 Dok;7 Mysrobyan mi,d z0rawic gancna/ e Californio3 Mylconyan
Sanovxi mi]oxa-ovmnyrovn yv ir sira30=ar ov srdapovq masnagxov;ivnu pyra/ e Mylconyan Sanovx
Himnatramin5 in[bes nayv zanazan
a-i;nyrow Mylconyanii gariknyrovn hamar hancanagova/ covmarnyrovn1
™ººº ;ovaganin Dok;7 Mysrobyan hasdadyx Manovg Cov3ovmjyan Gr;a;o,agi Himnatramu i
3i,adag ir wa.amy-ig m0ry.p0r` Manovg Cov3ovmjyani5 or Mylconyani !(%*6i ,r]anavard er1 A3s
gr;a;o,agen grnan 0cdovil Mylconyani ,r]anavardnyren anonk5 oronk irynx hamalsaranagan
ovsovmu gu ,arovnagyn Amyriga3i Miaxyal Nahancnyrov me]1
I

June/July 2004 Issue # 1 (11) - Melkonian Alumni and Friends

Transcription

Similar documents

the melkonia n controversy

E-Newsletter, December 4, 2014 - Saint Peter Armenian Apostolic

Paintings of Orient by Hovsep Pushman

FOCUS 2011 Committee

From the Desk of the Elementary Vice Principal

L.A. Banquets NYE Letter

A Call to Save Aleppo from Destruction

my.com.my fb.my.com.my instagram.my.com.my

MI-CASH - Squarespace

Conlux . . . Simply the right choice