Victoria Park & Highway 401 Tim Horton’s in Toronto

Victoria Park & Highway 401 Tim Horton’s in Toronto

Many years ago, I discovered a coffee shop nearby our Armenian Community Centre and St. Mary’s Armenian Church which is situated across the street where you can see it and right of the Highway 401 in Toronto. This particular Tim Horton’s in Toronto holds a special place in my heart. Reason being is that, I made a lot of new friends over the years and most of them are Armenian and I have met people from other cultures and walks of life.

In the past 2-3 years, I have met a lot of Armenian people who have come from Syria, Lebanon and other places and plus people who have been here in Canada for many years. These beautiful people have shared stories about how their lives were in Syria, about the walks of life and the experiences they have been through, the hardships they had to face day in and day out. I am very happy that they are here and got to meet these sweet people.

These people I have met are absolutely lovely people and we have become a close family and our Tim Hortons at 2501 Victoria Park Ave. is our home away from home. We have shared laughs, good times, also spoke about serious issues, and most importantly, the bonds we have created is and will forever be in my heart. We God Willingly will continue to share these moments together for many years to come.

Whenever I go to Victoria Park 401 Tim Horton’s, I automatically feel at home, and we spend hours there on certain nights, and our cold winters nights make it a warm, safe and happy environment. During spring and summer months, we take our coffees or beverages of choice and we go outside to talk, go to the park beside Tim Horton’s, hanging out in our cars, to enjoy the weather, the increased daylight days, and nights and we just talk and talk like we all have known each other for so many years.

Now whenever we go, the workers know us, the late night baker, Everybody knows everybody, the cars we drive and come with, and there is always somebody new that is welcome with all of us. It is very hard to leave each other and go home. Sometimes we would be there until 2-3 AM in the morning without even feeling the time go by. Time flies when you are having a good time.

This Tim Horton’s, we call it the Armenian Tim Horton’s or some people call it Tim Hortonian’s, because most of our last names end with IAN or YAN. lol. Not mine, but majority of Armenians. We call it that way is because Armenians come from the nearby Armenian Community Centre and a lot of Armenians live around the areas and some people drive from around the city to come by and enjoy. It is definitely a special place for us.

It is so important to find and feeling that sense of belonging, our place, and somewhere where everyone can relate to each other in some shape or form. Victoria Park and 401 Tim Horton’s is definitely a place where you feel welcome. Some of my friends there offer to pay for my coffee or whatever I want to get and I say no, no, but they insist and they offer me anyway, and me vise versa.

I am so happy and glad to be part of this family and I thank everyone for their welcome, respect, and their smiling faces toward me. It means so much.

I love you all and I love my VP Tim’s — The Short way to say Victoria Park Tim Hortons.

 

The Armenian Genocide – 101st Commemoration in 2016

To The Armenian Community of the World and as well as everyone,

2016 has officially arrived. It is never too early to remind and educate ourselves as well as others that this year in April on the day of the 24th, we must continue to strive to spread and raise awareness of The Armenian Genocide as it marks the 101st commemoration. Let us all continue that same energy we had for the 100th commemoration. We must not stop at 100. Recognition is the key component to prevention. No matter how many years have gone by. Never stop the peaceful demonstrations, the many events and the marching.

We must be big in numbers again all across the world to come together like how we did in 2015.  However even bigger. It speaks in volumes. We should always remember. We are still here on this earth, we have a purpose, we have a mission. It all begins with how we instill that to everyone and the importance of how crucial it is to spread Genocide prevention. Not only in Armenians, but everyone in the world who have been victims of genocide and to kill, torture and so many unspeakable, unimaginable criminal acts that we need to address.

Now, I know some people’s mentality that okay,  the 100th commemoration year of 2015 is now come and gone, next year is the 101st, it won’t matter anymore, and some people will not end up participating in Genocide peaceful demonstrations, and other events. That is what some people have told me and I was absolutely baffled and was in disbelief that some people actually said that. So, I guess the bloodshed of our ancestors and the horrific, and terrible days and years our people went through with all the suffering doesn’t matter anymore. Well, it does matter. These people’s lives were torn upside down, these children did not see life growing up because they were killed, women, men, babies all taken away, displaced, and massacred. They were also left to walk in the desert, and when they were tired and could not walk anymore, The Turks, punched, kicked, slapped and put them down to the ground and demanded them to get going and keep walking. Women were raped from Turkish soldiers too, while their children and spouses watched. We owe it to these victims, our ancestors and be there for them. Not only by just saying prayers and remembering, we must do more by going out and putting our time and effort to raise awareness. It is crucial.

We owe it to these victims, our ancestors and be there for them. Not only by just saying prayers and remembering, we must do more by going out and putting our time and effort to raise awareness. It is crucial. It is a way to pay respect and to take extra measures. I am not just talking about the Armenians, but the whole human race of the world.

The Turkish Ottoman Empire tried to destroy the whole Armenian race and wipe us all off the face of this earth, and they killed 1.5 Million Armenians and they also stole our precious land and our Mount Ararat in 1915. The Turkish Government still denies, lies, as well as make up stories that they never committed such terrible criminal acts to humanity of Armenians, and many other people in Greece as well as other places. They must admit their guilt. Justice and Recognition must be enforced.

Everything starts with how much of an impact we have and can spread around so that history never repeats itself. Where there is a will there is a way.

From:

Talin Orfali

Conan O’Brien Takes Assistant Sona Movsesian to Armenia

Dear Conan O’Brien, Sona Movsesian, Team Coco, and Crew,

I would just like to say thank you to you all for making the trip to my homeland Armenia and for taking Sona Movsesian who had never been to Armenia. That is such an incredible and beautiful gesture that you made for Sona and that flair was definitely felt throughout the Armenian community of the world. Not every boss in the world would do those beautiful and thoughtful things for their friends/workers and that there tells a lot about a person’s character and personality and Conan, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you and your crew, not only because you took Sona to Armenia, but you as a person who demonstrates quality, who is dedicated, and put your employees first. That is a rare occurrence.

You have no idea on how much we Armenians appreciate all that you have done and continue to do. Now, a lot more people know about us and that is something that I/We will forever be grateful for.

It is so awesome on how the #ConanArmenia show was presented to the world. Thank you for adding humor into the show, which made me laugh hysterically. I have watched the episode at least 10 times by now, if not more. I just cannot get enough of it. Sona is a beautiful person who is so full of life and I would love to meet you Conan and Sona someday and tell you in person.

As the show was airing, I was sending out live tweets and explaining to what was going on and I was so excited about it. I must have sent hundreds of #ConanArmenia hashtags throughout the world.

On behalf of all the Armenians in the world including myself, thank you for introducing Armenia our homeland to your viewers and fans, thank you for taking the time to travel thousands of miles to be with Armenians, getting to know and embrace our culture, language, heritage, making Armenian friends, putting us on the map and as well as addressing an important and integral part of our history about The Armenian Genocide, for saying the word Genocide, visiting the Genocide memorial with Sona in the end of the show really put a sweet and touching tribute and for recognizing what had happened to 1.5 Million Armenians who were displaced, massacred in 1915, and for letting people know about it.

When Sona was explaining about her family and what had happened in the village we lost of Sepastia which is now in Turkish lands, really made me all the more emotional as I am sure the Armenian community of the world. I started to cry too with Sona and I felt her feelings about it.

Again, we cannot thank you enough for doing this. We love you Conan, we love you Sona, and may you all have continued success with your show in Los Angeles or wherever life takes you.

Sincerely,

Talin Orfali
talinorfali.wordpress.com

Introducing to you Director, Writer, Producer – Ara Sagherian –

Ara Sagherian is Armenian and a filmmaker based in Toronto, Ontario in Canada. He was born on March 25th. Growing up in Toronto, and attending an Urban Toronto elementary school, he demonstrated an incredible talent and vision to creative arts. His passion continued to grow stronger as he was becoming a teenager. Ara began by utilizing his talent by using his family camcorder where he would shoot short films. When he was 15 years old, he watched Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” for the first time. He was inspired even more to make film a big part of his life, to earn a living to produce films. Ara graduated with a degree in communications from Michigan State University. Ara has directed, written and produced many short films that have been seen at different screenings in a variety of festivals. Ara is also currently working on a feature length film called “Senior Year” in 2016.

In 2005 at the age of 27 Ara was left paralyzed and wheelchair bound after a serious car accident. He was told he would never be able to walk again. With determination, hard work, great mental strength, prayers, love and support, Ara has already conquered the impossible by defying the medical odds and began walking again.

Here is your opportunity to help Ara in his pursuit of making his first feature film. Click the following link to help raise funds and send Ara on his way to his journey in film.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/senior-year–8/x/10717712#/story

Ara has written, directed, and produced many films such as “Holding”, “The Photographer”, “Amphibian”, “Lift”, “Crush”, “Transcendent”, “See”, “Devil’s Night”, “True Human”, “The Fix”, “Katie Chats”, “Trick or Treat”, “3000 Miles”, and “Senior Year” .

Ara has quotes to live by:

Life isn’t about gains. It’s about losing things, and how we cope.

I eat better when I’ve written. That’s got to stand for something.

For more information about Ara Sagherian and his journey through film and arts, Click the following links to learn more about him.

Internet Movie Database — Biography/Filmography
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4964253

On Vimeo
https://vimeo.com/user15585938

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ara.sager

Stage 32
https://www.stage32.com/AraFILM

Interview with Ara on Blog Talk Radio
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/commffestradio/2013/03/18/celebrity-chat-with-filmmaker-ara-sagherian

Ara on Weebly
http://arafilms.weebly.com/

To be continued…

Why Deny Genocide?

As we are born into this world, we all come from different backgrounds, cultures, heritage, and religions. A lot of people in this world have been affected/effected by some sort of Genocide, War, and have lost our ancestors, loved ones, prominent important figures, have lost homes, villages, towns, and lands due to violent hate crimes which revolve around the jealousy of ones religion. With that being said, I always ask this question? Why deny Genocide? why hide the truth from the world and not recognize and admit wrong-doing? Race and culture discrimination should never be an issue and we should all respect each other. I do not see anything wrong with that.

As an Armenian myself, we have suffered 100 years of denial from the Turkish Ottoman Empire who tried to wipe out our Armenian’s and Armenia with 1.5 Million murdered in the hands of the Turks, but never succeed from April 24, 1915 until 1923. We just recently commemorated the centennial and it still hurts us in many ways that we cannot describe. What hurts the most is that we are being lied to day in and day out by the Turkish groups and the government. So, why deny? I think these nations who have not yet recognized the Armenian Genocide and other Genocides that have happened and are still happening now should be the bigger person’s and to make this world a better place, to make peace in the world and move forward.

I thank the countries and states of USA who have acknowledged and recognized the Armenian Genocide. I really appreciate that so much. To some better late then never. Prevention is always key and that is a huge step forward to a better tomorrow.

The further nations that have not recognized Genocide, the further problems arise and to prevent from such terrible criminal acts to humanity to happen again. Why not take the extra measures and actually make this world a better place for us all, to love each other, to live and let others live their lives happily, healthy and create memories with their loved ones. It is not fair for people to lose loved ones to crime and hate with senseless deaths that could be prevented. These leaders of the world should just recognize especially President Obama of United States as he promised us. He should not have said anything to us Armenians that he will be recognizing the Armenian genocide or else we would not have been so hurt and betrayed, but he did and that is just something that we cannot bare. He has been president for almost the whole 2 terms, and we really thought he would change his ways on the 100th commemoration, but he failed to do so. Why doesn’t he live up to his promise? I think he should be the bigger person and do it for the sake of humanity and for the sake of prevention of future genocides to occur. He would have left the end of his presidency on good terms, but unfortunately that is not the case.

Peoples lives have been cut short due to crimes and violent behavior. Those women, men, children, their families ripped apart, promising futures that were ahead of those came to an unfortunate halt. It is not only disgusting, but horrible as well. It is something so unimaginable. The blood, tears, starvation, violence, stabbing, shooting, severing heads, dismembering bodies, skeletons that flooded our soil, the human remains in our streets of our villages, the smell of death, and decomposing bodies, malnutrition, being left homeless, the cries of the innocent. Why? It does not make sense to me to this day why these things have to happen?

There is always a choice and unfortunately some people and leaders make the wrong choices that impact the rest of us. Stop the killing, stop genocides and make the future brighter and better for us all. Violence, Genocide and wars are definitely not the answer. Lets all stand against these terrible atrocities, to spread love, cheer, positivity around the world and to stop denying the Armenian and other Genocides. Lets all hold each others hands and stand together and create a new humanity of happiness, good health and prosperity.

Our Responsibility of Genocide Recognition Across the World

In the past couple of months I have been asking certain individuals if they are going to be attending the Ottawa, Canada Armenian Genocide Centennial Commemoration on April 24, 2015 from everywhere? As well as people across the world to participate in their local Genocide Centennial Events.

The response was, I went many times, some said I am not going to go, because nothing is changing and what is the point?

My response to them was, 1.5 Million Armenians were massacred, displaced from their homes, families destroyed, valuables and memories all gone, our lands were stolen, our landmarks and Mount Ararat was taken from us from Turks, and they are saying what is the point? Some are saying they are not going to go? You are not willing to sacrifice some of your time in memory of your ancestors?

Well, this is the kind of attitude and negativity that is not welcome. I get very angry when some people say those things. This is especially for those who cannot just sit and do nothing about it. Be true to your heritage, be Proud of who you are, We need to be about it, This is our Armenia, This is our Armenians, This is our Heritage, Culture and our being and existence in the world. We need to stand up against Genocide denial, we need to form unity and we have that important responsibility to prioritize, take a stand and join together to combat denial, to raise awareness. We need to take care of each other, and help each other out. This is including all races, cultures..

In the past month or so, we have gotten so much media coverage, the world knows about us now, and non-Armenians are always discussing us now. It does not matter if you are Armenian or not. This issue of Genocide is universal. All that matters is that all genocides combined that have happened needs awareness, needs recognition and we need to work hard and make sure that Genocide is never repeated. We are responsible for taking care of our Human Identity, Existence and everything else. There is no excuse and no reason in the world, that we cannot take time out of our lives and protect our every being. This is not just us, but everyone.

We have advanced so much in the world right now and this is such an awesome thing to see Armenia, Armenians and the Genocide getting so much media attention. Millions and Millions of people know about us now and that is something so incredible. Thank you to Mrs. Amal and MR. George Clooney, the Kardashians, Kanye West, Pope Francis, Countries that have recognized the Armenian Genocide, those who are on the verge of doing so, and US States that have also. Thank you to everyone who supports us and who took a stand against Genocide. That is what its all about. Love and take care of each other. Nothing is more beautiful than love, support, friendships, and unity. God bless us all and prevent from genocides from ever happening again.

Thank you Kardashian West Family and Pope Francis

What an incredible week it has been for us Armenians around the world. The Kardashian/West family made a memorable trip to Armenia which we will never forget, They also visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial to lay flowers and pay their respects to the 1.5 Million Armenians that were killed by the Turkish Ottoman Empire and our lands stolen from us, Kim then found out an elderly woman wanted to meet her, so she went and met up with her and gave her a hug. That was very nice of you Kim, Then we see that Kanye West performed in a concert for free, and then jumps into Swan Lake in Yerevan, then Pope Francis Recognizes and uses the word and term “Genocide” in his mass, then followed by Armenian Church songs and prayers.

This is huge recognition that we all needed and it was a long time coming, but we got it. With Millions and Millions of people around the world know our country of Armenia now, know who we are, know about The Armenian Genocide which occurred on April 24, 1915 and with almost 10 days to go until the Genocide’s 100th Centennial, this really made a big difference.

Thank you to Pope Francis, The Kardashians/West families, and all those across the world that helped us raise awareness and also acknowledging us and our beautiful Country of Armenia which made Kanye West smile and made him feel like home. That is something that is so incredible. What a great feeling. I am blown away by it all and how we were trending on Social Media and so many NON-ARMENIANS which have been tweeting, hashtagging, instagraming, and more. That is whats important for people to know about us. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

Blood For Memory – In Memory of The Armenian Genocide

Blood For Memory
In Memory of 1.5 Million Armenians Massacred in 1915 from the Turkish Ottoman Empire on April 24th. The blood of our ancestors were taken away and killed 100 years ago.

Recognize, Contribute, Raise Awareness.

Join us and participate
April 12, 2015 from 1-5 pm
Armenian Community Centre of Toronto – Թորոնթոյի Հայ Կեդրոն
45 Hallcrown Pl – Toronto, Ontario

Health and Wellness fair, Many health/medical information booths, healthy snacks, resource centers for health questions, Kids corner and much more.

You can also donate blood on other dates and more. Bring your family and friends.

visit the following websites for more information http://www.bloodformemory.org — http://www.blood.ca — http://www.acmao.ca

For more information about the event please contact
Dr. Ani Hasserjian
dr.hasserjian@bellnet.ca
416-221-7300

Thank you.

Forget Me Not Flower – In Memory of The Centennial Armenian Genocide

This month of April 24, 2015 will mark the Centennial of The Armenian Genocide of which occurred 100 years ago in the year 1915. The Republic of Armenia has issued a symbol and emblem presenting the memory of 1.5 Million Armenians who were massacred and killed by Ottoman empire of Turkey. This forget-me-not-flower expresses eternal remembrance, also that evokes the past, the present and the future experiences of our Armenian people. This year the theme is forget-me-not, and this flower is the official emblem worldwide to observe this as the 100th commemoration of the Armenian Genocide. The following describes the meaning behind the flower and what it symbolizes:
THE FUTURE:
The five petals represent the five continents
where survivors of the Armenian Genocide found a new home.
The dark purple color is meant to recall the priestly vestments of
the Armenian Church—which has been, is, and will remain at the
heart of the Armenian Christian identity.

THE PRESENT:
The light purple petals represents the unity
of Armenian communities across the world—all of whom stand
together in this 100th year of remembrance.

ETERNITY:
The twelve trapezoids represent the twelve pillars
of the Dzidzernagapert Armenian Genocide memorial in Yerevan,
Armenia. The yellow color represents light, creativity, and hope.

THE PAST:
The black center represents the sufferings of 1915,
and the dark aftermath of the Armenian Genocide.

***for the Month of April, I will be putting Armenian Genocide banners on my Facebook and will be explaining more about the Armenian Genocide, how Turkish Ottoman Empire Failed to wipe us all out from the earth, as well as introducing to you talented and incredible artists, and more in our Armenian Community which have inspired us and lifted us all up.***

For more of a visual understanding and to see the emblem of Forget-Me-Not-Flower visit http://www.YouTube.com/EasterndDocese

Some more Armenian Genocide Centennial Websites and Links of Interest.

http://armeniangenocide100.org/en/materials/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/100th_anniversary_of_the_Armenian_Genocide

http://genocidecentennial.ca/canada-and-the-armenian-genocide/

http://repatarmenia.org/eng/forget-me-not-to-symbolize-centenary-of-armenian-genocide/

http://www.armeniansgenocide.am/en/news/15

http://www.accc.org.uk/video-explaining-the-forget-me-not-flower-symbol-of-the-armenian-genocide/

Thank you.

CBC Music Contest – Vote for My Friend Tatevik Sarkisyan

Vote for Drellander – You can vote once a day.
Biographical Info — Copy/Pasted –  Credit to: CBC Searchlight competition – Tatevik Sarkisyan

Tatevik Sarkisyan is a singer/songwriter/producer/performer based in Toronto, Canada. Her main genres are pop and jazz but she also writes dance music, Latin beats, rock’n’roll and country.

Drellander was born Tatevik Sarkisyan from Armenian parents in Moscow. She began her musical journey at the age of 6 as a choir lead and piano performer at school concerts.

She came to Canada at the age of 16 and became known in the Montreal local community for performing a classical repertoire in 8 languages. At 19 she developed a passion for song-writing and presented to a small audience her first musical composition “Time”.

The singer/songwriter/producer now has more than 160 written songs behind her in a variety of styles.

Tatevik has received great reviews for her work including praise from tenor and McGill voice coach Franco Tenelli who says: “One of Tateviks greatest gifts is a beautiful voice that can be used in almost any style of music including classical and pop. In addition she is also a composer and excellent songwriter. This versatility is a unique gift itself and ensures us we have a real talent.”

At 24 Tatevik moved to Toronto and took on the artist name “Drellander” which sounds like “dreamlander”. In 2004 Tatevik collaborated with writer/film director Robert Wilson on a short film A Dying Fall that aired on CBC in July 2006 and won first place at WorldFest Houston. Tatevik’s multiple credits for this film include art direction, craft services, make-up and wardrobe, contract management as well as playing a small part in the movie. Tatevik worked with Robert at Tamerlane Productions until 2009.

In 2011 she recorded her song Oasis with indie music producer and Indie Week judge Dave Thomson of Digital Underdog Productions and released it on iTunes and Amazon via CD Baby. She also produced a music video for the song (directed and edited by Robert Wilson) that is now available on YouTube.

Tatevik launched Drellander Productions in 2012 and is currently looking for funding for her album. She secured a non-exclusive worldwide publishing deal for her songs with the Canadian publisher Jan Cooper Publishing after Jan Cooper represented her at Midem 2012 in Cannes. In the same year she had a performance at the prestigious Mod Club in Toronto organized by Landmark Media. Her song Oasis was promoted with a 2 week radio blast in Canada and US by Avala DSF (currently under Five2Eight umbrella). In February 2013 she was approached and signed with A & R Select to promote her music on radio, in magazines,TV shows, films and commercials in the US. The week of Aug 12, 2013 “Oasis” had spins on CBC Radio. It played on the CBC Radio programs “Mainstreet” (P.E.I.) and “The Bridge” (Windsor, Ontario).

Oasis is the first single from Drellander’s much anticipated debut album. As A & R Select says in their press release: ” Oasis is a metaphor for finding true love. Its message is inspiring, hopeful and creates a deep connection due to its relatable subject matter. This single has an arrangement of that of a movie soundtrack. It incorporates the depth of her skills, the passion of her writing, the beauty of her voice and has a mesmerizing effect on anyone who has the privilege to experience her music.”

In addition to being trained in music and having collaborated with some of the greatest classical voice/piano/composition teachers and performers such as Tamara Goulina (U of T), Eduardo del Campo (McGill, San Francisco Opera), Franco Tenelli (McGill, Metropolitan Opera), Vania Angelova (University of Montreal), Alexandre Solopov (McGill) and Nina Larionova Shishlova (Bolshoi Theatre), Tatevik has also studied science at McGill University and is a graduate of Touro College business school. She now teaches music and voice and her youngest student is 5 years old.

Tatevik is currently working on a few projects. Recently she co-wrote a ballad with producer/sound engineer Sean Michael Paddison called “I love you anyway” that is to be recorded and released this year. Sean has worked on a wide range of projects, including Grammy-winning, JUNO-winning, billboard charting singles and worldwide airplay. He is currently working with Chris Hau. Drellander also plans to record 3 of her original songs: a pop/classical duet “I can see a lifetime (when I look into your eyes)” with renown opera singer Franco Tenelli, a dance hit “Let the rain fall” with Montreal based producer/sound engineer Michael Makhin and another ballad “I’m so in love with you” with Toronto based producer/songwriter/manager/mentor Peter Linseman. Peter has written, produced & released dozens of national & international singles over the past few decades . He is managing the careers of TV Star/country pop artist Kate Todd and dance pop artist Stephanie Braganza. Peter made international history by writing/producing We Will Fly for Laure Shang, a successful single in China. He has also written & produced for Tanvi Shah (India – 2009 Grammy & Oscar Award winner for Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire), international dance pop artist Sarina Paris, international pop & Latin artist Rosita Stone. Peter is a Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAO) founding director, SIPO Foundation founding director and is an Accredited Juror for FACTOR.

Tatevik says: “I believe that my life purpose is to make people smile. Music is the perfect language to communicate emotions and share the love I have for people and life in my heart. Music is universal. It’s the language of feelings and it’s the only language that can break cultural barriers.”

This year Tatevik is participating in CBC Radio’s Searchlight Competition for Canada’s Best New Artist! Voting starts March 31st, 2015. Searchlight Link http://r3.ca/7lpK

Music Video for Oasis at http://www.youtube.com/drellander

Press Release & Demos: http://www.sonicbids.com/drellander Press/ Audio

Press Coverage http://www.drellander.com – Touro Mercury Article

Searchlight Link: http://r3.ca/7lpK

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drellander

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/drellander

iTunes Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/oasis-single/

Jango Radio: http://www.jango.com/music/Drellander/?l=0

Influences: Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Ella Fitzerald, Nat & King Cole, Diana Krall, Gloria Estefan, Celine Dion, Patricia Kaas, Modern Talking, Pet Shop Boys, Europe, Whitney Houston, Sarah McLahlan, Tori Amos, Mark Anthony, Laima Vaikule, Calibri, Brian Adams, Queen, John Bon Jovi, Belinda Carlisle, Lauren Christy, Leann Rimes, The Pretenders, The Righteous Brothers, Depeshe Mode, Roxette.

Favorite songs: The time of my life; If I could spend my lifetime loving you; Color of the night; Circle in the sand; I will always love you, You’re always on my mind, Yesterday, I’ll stand by you, Black Velvet, Mercy, Someone like you, Power of love.

In addition to being trained in music and having collaborated with some of the greatest classical voice/piano/composition teachers and performers such as Tamara Goulina (U of T), Eduardo del Campo (McGill, San Francisco Opera), Franco Tenelli (McGill, Metropolitan Opera), Vania Angelova (University of Montreal), Alexandre Solopov (McGill) and Nina Larionova Shishlova (Bolshoi Theatre), Tatevik has also studied science at McGill University and is a graduate of Touro College business school. She now teaches piano and voice and her youngest student is 5 years old. She is also trying herself as a life coach by sharing inspirational & educational messages & various self help techniques with her friends.

Influences

Celine Dion
Mariah Carey
Whitney Houston
Adele
Lady Antebellum
Mark Anthony
Regina Belle
Brian Adams
Sarah McLahlan
Leann Rymes

http://music.cbc.ca/#!/artists/Drellander

Tatevik will definitely appreciate your vote.

Thank you!

100th Centennial of The Armenian Genocide – Genocide Prevention

Will you be Canada’s Capital in Ottawa, Ontario on April 24, 2015?
100 years
Parliament Hill to March to the Turkish Embassy.

The Armenian Genocide Centennial
April 24 1915 – April 24, 2015

It is important that we raise as much awareness as possible, not only in attending Ottawa for the Armenian Genocide commemoration, but everywhere in the world in many communities. The Armenian Genocide began on April 24, 1915 where the Turkish Ottoman empire tried to wipe out all Armenians, they massacred and killed 1.5 million Armenians as well as stealing our lands, displacing people from their homes, stealing our Mount Ararat where Noah’s Arc took its final resting place. We must continue to spread awareness.

Social Media is a powerful tool which can transmit information instantly. raise awareness here on Facebook, re-tweets, re-blogs, go to twitter, tumblr, WordPress, create more Armenian websites, other social media outlets, go to newspapers, newscasters, broadcasters, educate NON-Armenians about the Armenian Genocide and to spread the word to finally make genocide history, not only in Armenians, but Genocide as a whole to prevent it in our world.

I am not just stating about The Armenian Genocide, but the genocides that have happened around the world and those it has affected. We’ve asked Google to doodle in Memory of the Armenian Genocide on April 24, 2015. Hopefully they will honor our wish. It is not the sole purpose of advertising, but to prove a point, to spread to the word and users of Google to stand up against these criminal acts and take it to those high up in authority across the world to put their foot down and do something good for the world and to leave a great legacy instead of being cruel to people.

It does not matter the culture, race, religion we are all in, if people have to fight for religion, then its not a religion, it is cowardly and disgusting. One thing I detest is racism, discrimination. In the end we are all the same. colour, religion, and different beliefs should not be an issue in our world, but unfortunately it is still going, ignorance is still on the rise and without spreading the word out, the world will keep going backwards. Let us eliminate Genocide, Crimes, Wars and senseless killings in our world and focus mainly on to better life by being more helpful, positive, happy, spreading love, joy, smiles and beauty around the world.

We can make this world a more beautiful and peaceful place. It is all in our hands. We make it or break it. So lets get going and Lets make it!

Creator of the Armenian Alphabet – St. Mesrob Mashtots

In 362 A.D in Taron, St. Mesrob Mashtots was born and passed away in February of 440 A.D. St. Mesrob Mashtots was a theologian in Armenians, Hymnologist, as well as a linguist. In Our Armenian culture, he is best known as for inventing and creating the 38 Letter Armenian Alphabet in 405 A.D. It was an incredible step to increasing, strengthening and establishing a bond between the Armenian Statehood, Armenians Living in the empire of Byzantine and the Armenian kingdom. It also created a sense of identity and difference in the world that prospered into a beautiful language with creating words, where we are now able to read, write, speak and express ourselves in our Armenian communities, churches, in our homes, and in our day-to-day lives.

In Armenia, we have a Library called the “Madenataran“, where his Statue and the Armenian Alphabet beside him sits, and where the most important books, scriptures and important parts of our Armenian Heritage sits in the museum within the Madenataran. In 2005 Armenian Alphabet turned 1600 years old, where then as a celebration a field with all the Letters in the Alphabet was created by the Mt Aragats.

St. Mesrob Mashtots also created the Albanian, and Georgian Alphabets.

St. Mesrob came from a village in “Hatzetgatz Kyough” (HATS-EH-GATS KYOO-GH), and passed away in Vagharshapat (Vagh-are-shahpat), then he was laid to rest in the town of Oshakan. To this very day many tourists and visitors to Armenia, visit his tomb in the church to pay homage and respects to the creator. St. Mesrob Mashtots spent most of his life devoted to Christianity, and to spread the word of God. He is known to be a big icon in the world and prominent individual, which inspired many people in the Global world history and still does to this day from hearing about his biography, what he accomplished which changed our Armenian identity and put a positive and beautiful impact in our world.

Without St. Mesrob, we would not have our alphabet, our ability to read, write and communicate with the words and our beautiful language that exists in our world. This is an example of how Turkey failed to wipe Armenians off the face of this earth during the April 24, 1915, Armenian Genocide, because to this day we continue to speak, read and write our beautiful Armenian Language. Thank you to St. Mesrob Mashtots for giving us our identity. We Armenians are forever grateful and we are so blessed to have you in our life and your legacy will live on within our hearts forever.

Links of Interest:

click this link to see the Armenian Alphabet: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armenian_alphabet

click this link to see the Madenataran Library in Armenia – http://www.armeniapedia.org/index.php?title=Matenadaran

100 Years, 100 Reasons – Armenians Are Still Here – 1915-2015

This year in 2015 on April 24th, It will be Armenian Genocide’s 100 Year Commemoration.
The Turkish Ottoman Empire failed to wipe Armenians off the Earth and here are 100 reasons why Turkey Failed. #TurkeyFailed

1. We can Still read Armenian
2. We can still speak Armenian
3. We have 38 letters in the Armenian Alphabet
4. We are the first Adopter of Christianity in 301 A.D.
5. Our Flag is Red, Blue and Orange
6. Armenians have been Around for thousands of years and will be here forever
7. We can still write in Armenian
8. We are few in the world, but will always remain Armenian
9. We have the first church built named “Sourp Etchmiadzin”
10. We have a beautiful Country
11. The Apricot, Grapes, Pomegranates are fruits of our Nation

12. William Saroyan’s Quote “I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia. See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.”

13. Our Armenia Capital is Yerevan
14. We can sing Armenian Songs
15. We can pray in Armenian
16. We have many churches across the world
17. We have many Armenian Community Centres across the world
18. 13 Million Armenians are living around the world
19. Armenia became independent in 1991 from the Soviet Union
20. St Gregory the Illuminator was our first Catholicos
21. We have Armenian Inventors, Innovators
22. We have So many Armenian Singers and Performers
23. Armenians are great at Chess
24. Mesrob Mashtotz, Creator of the Armenian Alphabet
25. Vartan Mamigonian – year 451 Vartanantz
26. Sassountzi Tavit – David of Sassoun
27. We have beautiful Armenian Scripture
28. Armenians have the rarest and most beautiful books in Madenataran – Library in Armenia
29. We have Khor Virap Church
30. Mount Ararat will always be ours even though The Turkish Ottoman Empire took it away from us
31. Hagop Oshakan, novelist, literary critic
32. Atom Egoyan who is a film director, producer
33. Isabel Bayrakdarian/Serouj Kradjian — Armenian Pianist, Singer
34. Cher Sarkissian — Singer “Cher”
35. Daniel Varoujan, lyric poet
36. Vahan Tekeyan, poet, political leader
37. Arshile Gorky, abstract painter
38. Hovhannes Shiraz, nationalistic poet
39. Paruyr Sevak, Eastern Armenian poet
40. Tigran the Great — Dikran
41. Charles Aznavour – Armenian singer
42. Kirk Kirkorian – Businessman and MGM Owner
43. Kev Orkian — actor, musician & comedian
44. Eric Bogosian, playwright and performance artist
45. Ken Davitian, actor
46. Robert Zildjian, founder of Sabian Cymbals
47. We have delicious Foods
48. Armenians have the best coffee
49. Andre Agassi — Tennis Player
50. Geghard Church
51. Garni Temple
52. Republic Square of Yerevan
53. Lake Sevan
54. Zvartnots Airport and Cathedral
55. St. Hripsime Church
56. Tatev Monastery
57. The Yerevan Opera House
58. Erebuni Museum
59. Sardarabad
60. Gyumri
61. Kohar Music School – Kohar Music
62. Shushi
63. Nagorna Gharabagh – Artsakh
64. The Armenian Dram — Armenia Money Currency
65. Dilijan
66. Talin City
67. Oshagan
68. Armenian Alphabet Field
69. Mamig Dadig Statue
70. Noravank Church
71. Beautiful Hills and Mountains
72. Our DOOF Kar — Our Armenia Rock
73. Rich and beautiful Agriculture
74. Hayasdan is Armenia
75. We have beautiful and rich history, that will always remain part of us
76. Armenians are Forever
77. We have Armenians in Sports
78. Jermuk Falls
79. Ararat Cognac
80. Yeraplur
81. Akhtamar
82. Armenian Cross Rocks — Khatchkars
83. The Gate to Armenia is Always Open – Welcome!
84. Mayr Hayasdan Statue — Mother of Armenia statue with a Sword
85. Beautiful Roads leading to beautiful cities and towns of Armenia
86. beautiful trees and nature
87. the skies, the ground, Armenia is natural
88. Armenian Communities of the world Come together to commemorate the Armenian Genocide
89. We Armenians get together in our communities
90. Armenians enjoy parties and get togethers
91. Ararat the Movie
92. My Uncle Rafael Movie
93. Musa Dagh
94. We feel great when we hear someone speaking Armenian in a store and just hear our beautiful language spoken
95. Armenian Folk dances are beautiful
96. Armenian Patriotic and National Songs are touching
97. Wedding attendances are large
98. Our Armenian Identity is special
99. Our hearts, minds, souls, body, physically, mentally and emotionally will always be Armenian
100. After all that we have been through from the Armenian Genocide and beyond, we are still here and will be forever.

 

There are so many other reasons.

God bless Armenia and Armenians!

Because, Turkey Failed – The Armenian Genocide 100 Year Centennial

Hashtag and Keep this going #TurkeyFailed

– We can still say our Armenian Alphabet, Because TurkeyFailed
– We can still hold our Armenia Flag high up in the air, Because TurkeyFailed
– We can still talk in our Armenian Language, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have beautiful and rich history, that will always remain part of us, Because TurkeyFailed
– Red Blue Orange, Because TurkeyFailed
– We are still here, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have our Armenian Landmarks, Churches, Community Centres, Because TurkeyFailed
– We have the greatest innovators, celebrities, musical artists, artists, and many other talents, Because TurkeyFailed
– We will always have Mount Ararat and it will be returned to us once again, Because TurkeyFailed
– Turkish Ottoman Empire wiped out more than 1.5 Million Armenians, But were still here, Because TurkeyFailed
– More than 13 Million Armenians around the world, Because TurkeyFailed
– Armenians are Forever, Because TurkeyFailed
– 100 years later, we are still here, Because TurkeyFailed

April 24, 1915, Because, TurkeyFailed

 

The Armenian Genocide Centennial

100 Years

Letter of Appreciation to Mrs. Amal Clooney – Human Rights Lawyer

Dear Mrs Amal Clooney,

It is with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to bring up one of the biggest Crimes of the 20th century and more specifically about The Armenian Genocide which took place on April 24, 1915. The Turkish Ottoman Empire committed this crime against Armenians and tried to wipe Armenians off the face of the earth with Ethnic cleansing which they did not succeed. 1.5 Million Armenians were massacred, our lands were stolen, Mount Ararat was stolen from us and Thanks to you for addressing this matter to make this globally well known. I opened up the Toronto Star this morning and I happened to see the Article about You and about the Armenian Genocide, Freedom of Speech and human rights.

We Armenians in our communities across the world cannot thank you enough for your efforts. We love you and we are so proud of you for standing up to end this denial of The Armenian Genocide, to recognize, to support us and having our backs. It takes a lot of guts and I applaud you for it, and as I am sure a lot of us do. Thank you again Amal. It means so much to us. God bless you always. Mr. George Clooney definitely knows how to pick em. Love you both so much! I hope to meet you someday and offer my thanks to you in person. Thanks again!

Sincerely,

Talin Orfali

Articles in relative to Mrs. Amal Clooney’s Representing Eloquently about The Armenians, Human Rights, Freedom of Speech and the Armenian Genocide:

Horizon Weekly
http://www.horizonweekly.ca/news/details/60540

Time Magazine – Online Edition
http://time.com/3687958/amal-clooney-turkey-armenian-genocide/

Daily Mail UK
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2929573/Amal-Clooney-takes-genocide-denying-politician-Human-rights-lawyer-leads-fight-Turkish-MP-prosecuted-calling-death-1-5-million-Armenians-international-lie.html

Thank you to Mrs. Amal Clooney for taking the stand to stand up for Armenians and Representing The Armenian Genocide.