Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Natane to '21- If only '21 would come back..
«Να 'τανε το '21»
Στίχοι: Σώτια Τσώτου
Μουσική: Σταύρος Κουγιουμτζής
Πρώτη εκτέλεση: Γρηγόρης Μπιθικώτσης
Μου ξανάρχονται ένα ένα χρόνια δοξασμένα
να 'τανε το 21 να 'ρθει μια στιγμή
Να περνάω καβαλάρης στο πλατύ τ' αλώνι
και με τον Κολοκοτρώνη να 'πινα κρασί
Να πολεμάω τις μέρες στα κάστρα
και το σπαθί μου να πιάνει φωτιά
και να κρατάω τις νύχτες με τ' άστρα
μια ομορφούλα αγκαλιά.
Μου ξανάρχονται ένα ένα χρόνια δοξασμένα
να 'τανε το 21 να 'ρθει μια βραδιά.
Πρώτος το χορό να σέρνω στου Μοριά τις στράτες
και ξοπίσω μου Μανιάτες και οι Ψαριανοί
Κι όταν λαβωμένος γέρνω κάτω απ' τους μπαξέδες
να με ραίνουν μενεξέδες χέρια κι ουρανοί
Να πολεμάω τις μέρες στα κάστρα
και το σπαθί μου να πιάνει φωτιά
και να κρατάω τις νύχτες με τ' άστρα
μια ομορφούλα αγκαλιά.
Μου ξανάρχονται ένα ένα χρόνια δοξασμένα
να 'τανε το 21 να 'ρθει μια βραδιά.
They come back (to my memory) one by one
Those glorious years,
If only '21 would come back for one moment.
I would pass on a horse back in the wide yard
And I would drink wine with Kolokotronis.
I would fight during the days at the castles
And my sword would be on fire
And at the starry nights I would hold a beautiful young lady in my arms.
They come back (to my memory)
Those glorious years one by one
If only '21 would come back for a night.
I would lead the dance at the streets of Morea (Peloponnese)
And behind me would be the Maniots and the Psarians(people of the island of Psara)
And when wounded I lie under the orchard trees
Violets, hands and skies would be scattered on me.
I would fight during the days at the castles
And my sword would be on fire
And at the starry nights I would hold a beautiful young lady in my arms.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Pan-European Front at Armenian Genocide Vigil
Washington D.C. April 24, 2009 — A small but determined contingent of Nuova Patria Meridionale and Hellenic League of America members joined the Armenian community in the Nation's Capitol for the annual Armenian Genocide Vigil. Our support was another example of NPM’s and HLA's concerted effort to show solidarity and forge bonds with other Euro-American identitarian organizations.
It took Herculean might not to pummel the disrespectful counter-protestors horded outside the Turkish embassy. From the moment we arrived to the very end of the protest we were subjected to the most vile and vulgar taunts. Obscenities and racial epithets were hurled at the massive gathering of peaceful protestors, which should be noted were mostly women and children. To their credit the Armenians stayed composed and didn’t sink to their adversaries deplorable level, despite considerable provocation.
The atmosphere on the opposing sides of Massachusetts Avenue couldn’t be starker. The Turkish side was festive and mocking while the Armenians solemnly and painfully remembered the innocent victims of inhuman barbarism. Whenever the 1.5 million death toll was cited the Turks retorted with a hateful, “That wasn’t enough” chant. Instead of the usual denial of the charges they basked in their murderous legacy.
Strangely, the Greek faction of the vigil drove the Turkish throng into a frenzy. Plainly obvious to everyone present they harbor a remarkable hatred for Hellenes, who were singled out for special ridicule. With sadistic delight the Turks barked “Istanbul” and gloatingly waved the rag of Turkish-occupied Cyprus, both historically Greek homelands but now under Turkish occupation.
Ironically, the majority of the Armenians were waving American flags but it was the Turks who carried placards thanking Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for their support in denying the genocide. Sadly, the Armenian community’s patriotic fervor and loyalty was paid back with betrayal by the United States Government.
Our presence did not go unnoticed. The gracious Armenian community, whose grief and suffering has been largely ignored by the international community, warmly received us.
From http://magnagrece.blogspot.com/
ARMENIAN protest in WASHINGTON DC April 24 2009 (part 1)
ARMENIAN protest in WASHINGTON DC April 24 2009 (part 2)
It took Herculean might not to pummel the disrespectful counter-protestors horded outside the Turkish embassy. From the moment we arrived to the very end of the protest we were subjected to the most vile and vulgar taunts. Obscenities and racial epithets were hurled at the massive gathering of peaceful protestors, which should be noted were mostly women and children. To their credit the Armenians stayed composed and didn’t sink to their adversaries deplorable level, despite considerable provocation.
The atmosphere on the opposing sides of Massachusetts Avenue couldn’t be starker. The Turkish side was festive and mocking while the Armenians solemnly and painfully remembered the innocent victims of inhuman barbarism. Whenever the 1.5 million death toll was cited the Turks retorted with a hateful, “That wasn’t enough” chant. Instead of the usual denial of the charges they basked in their murderous legacy.
Strangely, the Greek faction of the vigil drove the Turkish throng into a frenzy. Plainly obvious to everyone present they harbor a remarkable hatred for Hellenes, who were singled out for special ridicule. With sadistic delight the Turks barked “Istanbul” and gloatingly waved the rag of Turkish-occupied Cyprus, both historically Greek homelands but now under Turkish occupation.
Ironically, the majority of the Armenians were waving American flags but it was the Turks who carried placards thanking Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for their support in denying the genocide. Sadly, the Armenian community’s patriotic fervor and loyalty was paid back with betrayal by the United States Government.
Our presence did not go unnoticed. The gracious Armenian community, whose grief and suffering has been largely ignored by the international community, warmly received us.
From http://magnagrece.blogspot.com/
ARMENIAN protest in WASHINGTON DC April 24 2009 (part 1)
ARMENIAN protest in WASHINGTON DC April 24 2009 (part 2)
ANCA: Obama Betrays Armenian Genocide Pledge
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2009
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918
PRESIDENT OBAMA RETREATS FROM ARMENIAN GENOCIDE PLEDGE
-- April 24th statement avoids "genocide" characterization
WASHINGTON, DC -- Despite repeated statements properly
characterizing the Armenian Genocide during his Senate career and a
clear pledge stating that "As President, I will recognize the
Armenian Genocide," President Barack Obama today issued an April
24th statement evading the proper characterization of the Armenian
Genocide, reported the Armenian National Committee of America
(ANCA).
ANCA Chairman Ken Hachikian issued the following statement
regarding President Obama's April 24th statement:
"I join with all Armenian Americans in voicing our sharp
disappointment with President Obama's failure to honor his solemn
pledge to recognize the Armenian Genocide."
"In falling short of his repeated and crystal clear promises, which
reflected a thorough knowledge of the facts, the practical
implications, and the profound moral dimension of Armenian Genocide
recognition, the President chose, as a matter of policy, to allow
our nation's stand against genocide to remain a hostage to Turkey's
threats."
"The President's statement today represents a retreat from his
pledge and a setback to the vital change he promised to bring about
in how America confronts the crime of genocide."
"Genocide must be confronted unconditionally at the level of
American values and our common humanity. As Americans, we should
never allow the prevention or recognition of this crime to be
reduced to a political issue that can be traded away, retreated
from under pressure, or used to advance a political agenda, of any
kind."
"We urge the President to act quickly to correct his
Administration's stand on the Armenian Genocide by properly
condemning and commemorating this crime, removing Turkey's gag-rule
on its recognition by the United States, and working publicly
toward the adoption of the Armenian Genocide Resolution before
Congress," concluded Hachikian
As a Senator and presidential candidate, President Obama pledged
repeatedly to recognize the Armenian Genocide and promised
"unstinting resolve" to end the Darfur Genocide, stating, "America
deserves a leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian Genocide
and responds forcefully to all genocides. I intend to be that
President." View his record on the issue at:
http://www.anca.org/change/docs/Obama_Armenian_Genocide.pdf
President Obama's complete statement is provided below.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_____________________________
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2009
Statement of President Barack Obama on Armenian Remembrance Day
Ninety four years ago, one of the great atrocities of the 20th
century began. Each year, we pause to remember the 1.5 million
Armenians who were subsequently massacred or marched to their death
in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. The Meds Yeghern must live
on in our memories, just as it lives on in the hearts of the
Armenian people.
History, unresolved, can be a heavy weight. Just as the terrible
events of 1915 remind us of the dark prospect of man's inhumanity
to man, reckoning with the past holds out the powerful promise of
reconciliation. I have consistently stated my own view of what
occurred in 1915, and my view of that history has not changed. My
interest remains the achievement of a full, frank and just
acknowledgment of the facts.
The best way to advance that goal right now is for the Armenian and
Turkish people to address the facts of the past as a part of their
efforts to move forward. I strongly support efforts by the Turkish
and Armenian people to work through this painful history in a way
that is honest, open, and constructive. To that end, there has been
courageous and important dialogue among Armenians and Turks, and
within Turkey itself. I also strongly support the efforts by Turkey
and Armenia to normalize their bilateral relations. Under Swiss
auspices, the two governments have agreed on a framework and
roadmap for normalization. I commend this progress, and urge them
to fulfill its promise.
Together, Armenia and Turkey can forge a relationship that is
peaceful, productive and prosperous. And together, the Armenian and
Turkish people will be stronger as they acknowledge their common
history and recognize their common humanity.
Nothing can bring back those who were lost in the Meds Yeghern. But
the contributions that Armenians have made over the last ninety-
four years stand as a testament to the talent, dynamism and
resilience of the Armenian people, and as the ultimate rebuke to
those who tried to destroy them. The United States of America is a
far richer country because of the many Americans of Armenian
descent who have contributed to our society, many of whom
immigrated to this country in the aftermath of 1915. Today, I stand
with them and with Armenians everywhere with a sense of friendship,
solidarity, and deep respect.
#####
Armenian National Committee of America
1711 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Tel. (202) 775-1918
Fax. (202) 775-5648
Email.anca@anca.org
Internet www.anca.org
April 24, 2009
Contact: Elizabeth S. Chouldjian
Tel: (202) 775-1918
PRESIDENT OBAMA RETREATS FROM ARMENIAN GENOCIDE PLEDGE
-- April 24th statement avoids "genocide" characterization
WASHINGTON, DC -- Despite repeated statements properly
characterizing the Armenian Genocide during his Senate career and a
clear pledge stating that "As President, I will recognize the
Armenian Genocide," President Barack Obama today issued an April
24th statement evading the proper characterization of the Armenian
Genocide, reported the Armenian National Committee of America
(ANCA).
ANCA Chairman Ken Hachikian issued the following statement
regarding President Obama's April 24th statement:
"I join with all Armenian Americans in voicing our sharp
disappointment with President Obama's failure to honor his solemn
pledge to recognize the Armenian Genocide."
"In falling short of his repeated and crystal clear promises, which
reflected a thorough knowledge of the facts, the practical
implications, and the profound moral dimension of Armenian Genocide
recognition, the President chose, as a matter of policy, to allow
our nation's stand against genocide to remain a hostage to Turkey's
threats."
"The President's statement today represents a retreat from his
pledge and a setback to the vital change he promised to bring about
in how America confronts the crime of genocide."
"Genocide must be confronted unconditionally at the level of
American values and our common humanity. As Americans, we should
never allow the prevention or recognition of this crime to be
reduced to a political issue that can be traded away, retreated
from under pressure, or used to advance a political agenda, of any
kind."
"We urge the President to act quickly to correct his
Administration's stand on the Armenian Genocide by properly
condemning and commemorating this crime, removing Turkey's gag-rule
on its recognition by the United States, and working publicly
toward the adoption of the Armenian Genocide Resolution before
Congress," concluded Hachikian
As a Senator and presidential candidate, President Obama pledged
repeatedly to recognize the Armenian Genocide and promised
"unstinting resolve" to end the Darfur Genocide, stating, "America
deserves a leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian Genocide
and responds forcefully to all genocides. I intend to be that
President." View his record on the issue at:
http://www.anca.org/change/docs/Obama_Armenian_Genocide.pdf
President Obama's complete statement is provided below.
#####
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_____________________________
For Immediate Release
April 24, 2009
Statement of President Barack Obama on Armenian Remembrance Day
Ninety four years ago, one of the great atrocities of the 20th
century began. Each year, we pause to remember the 1.5 million
Armenians who were subsequently massacred or marched to their death
in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. The Meds Yeghern must live
on in our memories, just as it lives on in the hearts of the
Armenian people.
History, unresolved, can be a heavy weight. Just as the terrible
events of 1915 remind us of the dark prospect of man's inhumanity
to man, reckoning with the past holds out the powerful promise of
reconciliation. I have consistently stated my own view of what
occurred in 1915, and my view of that history has not changed. My
interest remains the achievement of a full, frank and just
acknowledgment of the facts.
The best way to advance that goal right now is for the Armenian and
Turkish people to address the facts of the past as a part of their
efforts to move forward. I strongly support efforts by the Turkish
and Armenian people to work through this painful history in a way
that is honest, open, and constructive. To that end, there has been
courageous and important dialogue among Armenians and Turks, and
within Turkey itself. I also strongly support the efforts by Turkey
and Armenia to normalize their bilateral relations. Under Swiss
auspices, the two governments have agreed on a framework and
roadmap for normalization. I commend this progress, and urge them
to fulfill its promise.
Together, Armenia and Turkey can forge a relationship that is
peaceful, productive and prosperous. And together, the Armenian and
Turkish people will be stronger as they acknowledge their common
history and recognize their common humanity.
Nothing can bring back those who were lost in the Meds Yeghern. But
the contributions that Armenians have made over the last ninety-
four years stand as a testament to the talent, dynamism and
resilience of the Armenian people, and as the ultimate rebuke to
those who tried to destroy them. The United States of America is a
far richer country because of the many Americans of Armenian
descent who have contributed to our society, many of whom
immigrated to this country in the aftermath of 1915. Today, I stand
with them and with Armenians everywhere with a sense of friendship,
solidarity, and deep respect.
#####
Armenian National Committee of America
1711 N Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Tel. (202) 775-1918
Fax. (202) 775-5648
Email.anca@anca.org
Internet www.anca.org
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
URGENT!: Community Action Alert: Protest NY Times Sales for Illegal Turkish-Military Occupation
For Immediate Release: April 22, 2009
Contact: Nikolaos Taneris, New York, Tel. 1-917-699-9935
NEW YORK--The Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) encourages all activists,
supporters and readers to participate in the following Community Action Alert,
forwarded from "Hellenic Organization of University Graduates of America"
:
Community Action Alert
THE NEW YORK TIMES GREAT HOMES & DESTINATIONS SECTION PROMOTES SALE OF PROPERTY
IN OCCUPIED NORTHERN CYPRUS - PLEASE WRITE YOUR LETTER OF PROTEST TODAY!!!!
In response to an article in The New York Times Great Homes & Destinations
section on April 22, 2009 promoting property for sale in occupied northern
Cyprus , we encourage everyone to write a letter of protest. For your
information, below please find:
1. Points that may be used in your letter
2. Email addresses at the NY Times
3. The article itself
Points that may be noted in your letter or email:
*The northern part of the Republic of Cyprus , under Turkish military occupation
since the Turkish invasion of 1974 and as such, the illegal secessionist entity
in the occupied area of Cyprus does not have jurisdiction to perform valid
transfers of property ownership
*Thus, foreign citizens interested in purchasing property in the area under
Turkish military occupation are strongly advised to thoroughly examine the legal
ownership status of the property concerned, through the Lands and Surveys
Department of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus, in order to
ascertain, at first, that no violation of the property rights of the legal
owners will be effected through the transaction, and, second, to safeguard that
the purported seller is the true owner of the property and can transfer a valid
title. Given that more than 4/5 of the property in the areas situated in the
north of the buffer zone belongs to forcibly displaced owners (the term ‘owners’
includes the Republic of Cyprus), one can reasonably reach the conclusion that
this advertising material relates to illegal activities, even if at the time of
its discovery there is no evidence linking the object of the advertisement to
specific displaced owners.
*The European Court of Human Rights, in its Judgment of 18 December 1996, on the
individual application of the Greek Cypriot displaced owner from Kyrenia, Mrs.
Titina Loizidou, against Turkey , and in the Fourth Interstate Application of
Cyprus against Turkey of 10 May 2001, upheld the rights of the refugees to their
properties. In the Loizidou case, the Court ordered the Government of Turkey to
compensate the applicant for the time period of deprivation of use of her
property and to provide full access and allow peaceful enjoyment of her property
in Kyrenia. The right of the displaced owners to their properties was
reconfirmed in the most recent decision of the European Court of Human Rights
(Dec. 2005) regarding the application of Myra Xenides- Arestis v. Turkey.
*Greek Cypriot owners may also bring civil action against usurpers of their
property before the competent civil Courts of the Republic of Cyprus . In its
judgment of 15 November 2004 in the case of Meletios Apostolides v David and
Linda Orams, the Nicosia District Court found the Defendants liable for trespass
in the property of the Plaintiff, ordering them to demolish the villa and other
buildings erected on the property, surrender vacant possession to the Plaintiff
and pay damages.
*Under the laws of the Republic of Cyprus , the exploitation of property
registered in the name of another, constitutes a criminal offence, for which a
European arrest warrant, executable in any of the 27 EU countries, and an
International arrest warrant could be issued.
*In reference to travel to and from occupied Cyprus -- The so-called “ERCAN”
airport is not recognized by ICAO, which is the highest international authority
on legal issues relating to civil aviation in general. ICAO’s policy on matters
relating to Cyprus is in conformity with that of the United Nations and the
international community. Consequently, ICAO recognizes only the Republic of
Cyprus and its Government as the sole representative of the whole island. Any
possible use by international traffic, of the illegally operating airports, such
as “ERCAN” (TYMBOU), violates International law, U.N. Security Council
resolutions, E.U. positions and contravenes the ICAO and the EUROCONTROL
Conventions, and their respective norms, standards, procedures and recommended
practices. This means there are problems in air safety as there is no interface
between the illegal airport and legitimate entities, and that the airline
industry and the pilots express concern over the existence of the illegal
airport (Ercan), which confuses pilots and threatens air safety.
PLEASE EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO:
Arthur Sulzberger Jr., Chairman & Publisher: publisher@nytimes.com
Scott H. Heekin-Canedy, President, General Manager: president@nytimes.com
Letters to the Editor : letters@nytimes.com
International: Foreign@nytimes.com
-------------------------------------------------------
THE NY TIMES ARTICLE IN THE GREAT HOMES & DESTINATIONS SECTIONS PROMOTING
PROPERTY FOR SALE IN OCCUPIED NORTHERN CYPRUS :
April 22, 2009 (published April 21, 2009)
International Real Estate, NY Times
For Sale In... Cyprus
By LISA KEYS
19TH CENTURY PROPERTY IN NORTHERN CYPRUS
£919,000 ($1,337,329)
Built in the 19th century by a wealthy Ottoman family, this property offers a
350-square-meter (3,767-square-foot) main house and two guest cottages. It is in
the center of Ozankoy, a village in the foothills of the Kyrenia mountains, five
miles east of the coastal town of Kyrenia , whose historic harbor is a popular
destination.
The main house, built of Cypriot stone and with a timber roof, has three
bedrooms and three baths, a large kitchen and dining room. Though it has been
renovated several times, and now has air-conditioning and heating, it retains
its rustic charm, including high ceilings with exposed beams and Ottoman
windows. It is being sold furnished, with antique furniture and Turkish carpets.
The first guest cottage has about 130 square meters (1,399 square feet) of
space, with two bedrooms; the second covers 50 square meters (538 square feet)
and has one bedroom. Also on the property are a swimming pool, gardens with
mature avocado and orange trees, original stone paths, and a small structure
with a Turkish bath and two earthen ovens for outdoor cooking.
The 3,000-square-meter (0.75 acre) property, surrounded by stone walls, is
reached through a large wooden door. Restaurants and cafes are within walking
distance, and a beach is three miles away. Ercan International Airport is about
30 minutes away.
MARKET OVERVIEW
Real estate prices in the northern portion of Cyprus are relatively low compared
with those elsewhere in the region, said Cameron Deggin, a director at Place
Overseas, a London-based real estate firm. This is partly because of the
complicated political situation on the island, which has been divided since
1974.
The southern two-thirds of the island is internationally recognized as the
Republic of Cyprus and is predominantly Greek Cypriot. The northern third, which
is home to a Turkish Cypriot community, calls itself the Turkish Republic of
Northern Cyprus , though it is recognized by Turkey alone. Clashes over the
years led the United Nations to set up a buffer zone, also known as the green
line.
From 2002 to 2007, the real estate market in the northern part of Cyprus was
“extremely buoyant,” Mr. Deggin said. Before the boom, a typical three-bedroom
villa with a garden and pool cost £40,000 to £50,000 ($58,208 to $72,760); today
it might run £80,000 to £100,000 ($116,416 to $145,520), he said. Most real
estate in north Cyprus is priced in British pounds, Mr. Deggin said.
In 2003 the increase was fueled by the easing of travel restrictions across the
green line.
Peace talks to unite the island have resumed recently, though parliamentary
elections held in northern Cyprus on April 19 suggest a tough road ahead. And
since the start of the global recession, prices have softened 10 to 15 percent,
said Mark Unwin, managing director at Unwin Estates, a real estate company based
in Karaoglanoglu, a suburb of Kyrenia.
WHO BUYS IN THE NORTHERN PART OF CYPRUS
Cyprus is a former British colony; the majority of foreign buyers in the
northern part of Cyprus are British, but there is a growing population of
Russian buyers, Mr. Unwin said.
BUYING BASICS
Foreign buyers are limited to new properties smaller than one donum (14,400
square feet) or pre-existing homes built on five donums (72,000 square feet),
said Mustafa Sener, a lawyer in Kyrenia who handles real estate. Buyers are also
limited to owning one property, he said. They are required to obtain a special
ownership permit, in a process involving many local agencies and Interpol, and
sometimes lasting as long as two years, according to Mr. Sener. (While awaiting
approval, buyers can take occupancy, Mr. Unwin explained.)
Lawyers’ fees are about £1,350 ($1,965), Mr. Sener said. (The use of a lawyer is
generally recommended.)
Given the delicate political situation, newcomers to the market in northern
Cyprus should also be aware of the type of title deed they buy. If the island
were reunified, Greek Cypriots who owned property in northern Cyprus before
fleeing south might come forward to seek compensation, Mr. Sener said.
To avoid complications, he advises cautious buyers to seek a property with a
Turkish title deed, which indicates ownership by a Turkish Cypriot before 1974.
This title is internationally recognized and carries no risk to the buyer.
Still, Mr. Sener believes that any property developed since 1974 carries minimal
risk, as potential compensation to Greek Cypriots would be based on the pre-1974
value of the land alone, which is likely to be nominal.
Other costs include a 0.5 percent stamp duty, a 5 percent value-added tax and a
6 percent land-registry fee, which can be reduced to 3 percent for first-time
buyers, Mr. Sener said. Real estate agents’ fees are paid by the seller and
typically range from 3 to 5 percent, Mr. Deggin said; mortgages are uncommon,
and a majority of foreigners pay in cash.
USEFUL WEB SITES
Travel and business guide: www.turkishcyprus.com
Travel guide: www.cyprus44.com
LANGUAGES AND CURRENCY
Turkish; Turkish Lira (1 Turkish lira equals 60 cents)
TAXES AND FEES
Property taxes are about £2,500 ($3,638); the house has a caretaker, whose
annual salary is about £5,000 ($7,276), said Mr. Deggin.
CONTACT
Cameron Deggin, Place Overseas, www.propertycyprussales.com, 011-44-20-8371-0059
####
========================
Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA)
2578 Broadway #132
New York, NY 10025
New York: Tel. 917-699-9935
Email: cana@cyprusactionnetwork.org
www.cyprusactionnetwork.org
========================
The Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) is a grass-roots, not-for-profit
movement created to support genuine self-determination and human rights for the
people of Cyprus.
To be added to CANA's Action Alert e-mail distribution list, or to introduce
CANA to a friend or colleague, please forward the pertinent name and e-mail
address, with the subject heading "Add e-mail to CANA distribution list", to
cana@cyprusactionnetwork.org
You are encouraged to forward this action alert to five or more individuals who
may have an interest in our e-distributions or in CANA’s mission.
You may post any CANA article, press release or action alert on the internet as
long as you credit CANA and the author(s).
Contact: Nikolaos Taneris, New York, Tel. 1-917-699-9935
NEW YORK--The Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) encourages all activists,
supporters and readers to participate in the following Community Action Alert,
forwarded from "Hellenic Organization of University Graduates of America"
Community Action Alert
THE NEW YORK TIMES GREAT HOMES & DESTINATIONS SECTION PROMOTES SALE OF PROPERTY
IN OCCUPIED NORTHERN CYPRUS - PLEASE WRITE YOUR LETTER OF PROTEST TODAY!!!!
In response to an article in The New York Times Great Homes & Destinations
section on April 22, 2009 promoting property for sale in occupied northern
Cyprus , we encourage everyone to write a letter of protest. For your
information, below please find:
1. Points that may be used in your letter
2. Email addresses at the NY Times
3. The article itself
Points that may be noted in your letter or email:
*The northern part of the Republic of Cyprus , under Turkish military occupation
since the Turkish invasion of 1974 and as such, the illegal secessionist entity
in the occupied area of Cyprus does not have jurisdiction to perform valid
transfers of property ownership
*Thus, foreign citizens interested in purchasing property in the area under
Turkish military occupation are strongly advised to thoroughly examine the legal
ownership status of the property concerned, through the Lands and Surveys
Department of the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus, in order to
ascertain, at first, that no violation of the property rights of the legal
owners will be effected through the transaction, and, second, to safeguard that
the purported seller is the true owner of the property and can transfer a valid
title. Given that more than 4/5 of the property in the areas situated in the
north of the buffer zone belongs to forcibly displaced owners (the term ‘owners’
includes the Republic of Cyprus), one can reasonably reach the conclusion that
this advertising material relates to illegal activities, even if at the time of
its discovery there is no evidence linking the object of the advertisement to
specific displaced owners.
*The European Court of Human Rights, in its Judgment of 18 December 1996, on the
individual application of the Greek Cypriot displaced owner from Kyrenia, Mrs.
Titina Loizidou, against Turkey , and in the Fourth Interstate Application of
Cyprus against Turkey of 10 May 2001, upheld the rights of the refugees to their
properties. In the Loizidou case, the Court ordered the Government of Turkey to
compensate the applicant for the time period of deprivation of use of her
property and to provide full access and allow peaceful enjoyment of her property
in Kyrenia. The right of the displaced owners to their properties was
reconfirmed in the most recent decision of the European Court of Human Rights
(Dec. 2005) regarding the application of Myra Xenides- Arestis v. Turkey.
*Greek Cypriot owners may also bring civil action against usurpers of their
property before the competent civil Courts of the Republic of Cyprus . In its
judgment of 15 November 2004 in the case of Meletios Apostolides v David and
Linda Orams, the Nicosia District Court found the Defendants liable for trespass
in the property of the Plaintiff, ordering them to demolish the villa and other
buildings erected on the property, surrender vacant possession to the Plaintiff
and pay damages.
*Under the laws of the Republic of Cyprus , the exploitation of property
registered in the name of another, constitutes a criminal offence, for which a
European arrest warrant, executable in any of the 27 EU countries, and an
International arrest warrant could be issued.
*In reference to travel to and from occupied Cyprus -- The so-called “ERCAN”
airport is not recognized by ICAO, which is the highest international authority
on legal issues relating to civil aviation in general. ICAO’s policy on matters
relating to Cyprus is in conformity with that of the United Nations and the
international community. Consequently, ICAO recognizes only the Republic of
Cyprus and its Government as the sole representative of the whole island. Any
possible use by international traffic, of the illegally operating airports, such
as “ERCAN” (TYMBOU), violates International law, U.N. Security Council
resolutions, E.U. positions and contravenes the ICAO and the EUROCONTROL
Conventions, and their respective norms, standards, procedures and recommended
practices. This means there are problems in air safety as there is no interface
between the illegal airport and legitimate entities, and that the airline
industry and the pilots express concern over the existence of the illegal
airport (Ercan), which confuses pilots and threatens air safety.
PLEASE EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO:
Arthur Sulzberger Jr., Chairman & Publisher: publisher@nytimes.com
Scott H. Heekin-Canedy, President, General Manager: president@nytimes.com
Letters to the Editor : letters@nytimes.com
International: Foreign@nytimes.com
-------------------------------------------------------
THE NY TIMES ARTICLE IN THE GREAT HOMES & DESTINATIONS SECTIONS PROMOTING
PROPERTY FOR SALE IN OCCUPIED NORTHERN CYPRUS :
April 22, 2009 (published April 21, 2009)
International Real Estate, NY Times
For Sale In... Cyprus
By LISA KEYS
19TH CENTURY PROPERTY IN NORTHERN CYPRUS
£919,000 ($1,337,329)
Built in the 19th century by a wealthy Ottoman family, this property offers a
350-square-meter (3,767-square-foot) main house and two guest cottages. It is in
the center of Ozankoy, a village in the foothills of the Kyrenia mountains, five
miles east of the coastal town of Kyrenia , whose historic harbor is a popular
destination.
The main house, built of Cypriot stone and with a timber roof, has three
bedrooms and three baths, a large kitchen and dining room. Though it has been
renovated several times, and now has air-conditioning and heating, it retains
its rustic charm, including high ceilings with exposed beams and Ottoman
windows. It is being sold furnished, with antique furniture and Turkish carpets.
The first guest cottage has about 130 square meters (1,399 square feet) of
space, with two bedrooms; the second covers 50 square meters (538 square feet)
and has one bedroom. Also on the property are a swimming pool, gardens with
mature avocado and orange trees, original stone paths, and a small structure
with a Turkish bath and two earthen ovens for outdoor cooking.
The 3,000-square-meter (0.75 acre) property, surrounded by stone walls, is
reached through a large wooden door. Restaurants and cafes are within walking
distance, and a beach is three miles away. Ercan International Airport is about
30 minutes away.
MARKET OVERVIEW
Real estate prices in the northern portion of Cyprus are relatively low compared
with those elsewhere in the region, said Cameron Deggin, a director at Place
Overseas, a London-based real estate firm. This is partly because of the
complicated political situation on the island, which has been divided since
1974.
The southern two-thirds of the island is internationally recognized as the
Republic of Cyprus and is predominantly Greek Cypriot. The northern third, which
is home to a Turkish Cypriot community, calls itself the Turkish Republic of
Northern Cyprus , though it is recognized by Turkey alone. Clashes over the
years led the United Nations to set up a buffer zone, also known as the green
line.
From 2002 to 2007, the real estate market in the northern part of Cyprus was
“extremely buoyant,” Mr. Deggin said. Before the boom, a typical three-bedroom
villa with a garden and pool cost £40,000 to £50,000 ($58,208 to $72,760); today
it might run £80,000 to £100,000 ($116,416 to $145,520), he said. Most real
estate in north Cyprus is priced in British pounds, Mr. Deggin said.
In 2003 the increase was fueled by the easing of travel restrictions across the
green line.
Peace talks to unite the island have resumed recently, though parliamentary
elections held in northern Cyprus on April 19 suggest a tough road ahead. And
since the start of the global recession, prices have softened 10 to 15 percent,
said Mark Unwin, managing director at Unwin Estates, a real estate company based
in Karaoglanoglu, a suburb of Kyrenia.
WHO BUYS IN THE NORTHERN PART OF CYPRUS
Cyprus is a former British colony; the majority of foreign buyers in the
northern part of Cyprus are British, but there is a growing population of
Russian buyers, Mr. Unwin said.
BUYING BASICS
Foreign buyers are limited to new properties smaller than one donum (14,400
square feet) or pre-existing homes built on five donums (72,000 square feet),
said Mustafa Sener, a lawyer in Kyrenia who handles real estate. Buyers are also
limited to owning one property, he said. They are required to obtain a special
ownership permit, in a process involving many local agencies and Interpol, and
sometimes lasting as long as two years, according to Mr. Sener. (While awaiting
approval, buyers can take occupancy, Mr. Unwin explained.)
Lawyers’ fees are about £1,350 ($1,965), Mr. Sener said. (The use of a lawyer is
generally recommended.)
Given the delicate political situation, newcomers to the market in northern
Cyprus should also be aware of the type of title deed they buy. If the island
were reunified, Greek Cypriots who owned property in northern Cyprus before
fleeing south might come forward to seek compensation, Mr. Sener said.
To avoid complications, he advises cautious buyers to seek a property with a
Turkish title deed, which indicates ownership by a Turkish Cypriot before 1974.
This title is internationally recognized and carries no risk to the buyer.
Still, Mr. Sener believes that any property developed since 1974 carries minimal
risk, as potential compensation to Greek Cypriots would be based on the pre-1974
value of the land alone, which is likely to be nominal.
Other costs include a 0.5 percent stamp duty, a 5 percent value-added tax and a
6 percent land-registry fee, which can be reduced to 3 percent for first-time
buyers, Mr. Sener said. Real estate agents’ fees are paid by the seller and
typically range from 3 to 5 percent, Mr. Deggin said; mortgages are uncommon,
and a majority of foreigners pay in cash.
USEFUL WEB SITES
Travel and business guide: www.turkishcyprus.com
Travel guide: www.cyprus44.com
LANGUAGES AND CURRENCY
Turkish; Turkish Lira (1 Turkish lira equals 60 cents)
TAXES AND FEES
Property taxes are about £2,500 ($3,638); the house has a caretaker, whose
annual salary is about £5,000 ($7,276), said Mr. Deggin.
CONTACT
Cameron Deggin, Place Overseas, www.propertycyprussales.com, 011-44-20-8371-0059
####
========================
Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA)
2578 Broadway #132
New York, NY 10025
New York: Tel. 917-699-9935
Email: cana@cyprusactionnetwork.org
www.cyprusactionnetwork.org
========================
The Cyprus Action Network of America (CANA) is a grass-roots, not-for-profit
movement created to support genuine self-determination and human rights for the
people of Cyprus.
To be added to CANA's Action Alert e-mail distribution list, or to introduce
CANA to a friend or colleague, please forward the pertinent name and e-mail
address, with the subject heading "Add e-mail to CANA distribution list", to
cana@cyprusactionnetwork.org
You are encouraged to forward this action alert to five or more individuals who
may have an interest in our e-distributions or in CANA’s mission.
You may post any CANA article, press release or action alert on the internet as
long as you credit CANA and the author(s).
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Media Coverage of Hellenic Genocide Commemoration For Immediate Release: April 16, 2009
For Immediate Release: April 16, 2009
Contact: Nikolaos Taneris, New York, Tel. (917) 699-9935
Following the success of our "Stop the Cycle of Denial" Hellenic Genocide
Commemoration in front of the United Nations in New York on April 6, 2009, a
number of media outlets gave coverage of the event. Some of the media outlets
that mentioned the Hellenic League of America (HLA) or the Pan Thracian Union of
America “ORPHEUS” include:
* GREEK NEWS Greek-American Weekly Newspaper, “Hellenic Genocide Commemoration
outside the UN”, Monday April 13, 2009:
http://www.greeknewsonline.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=10214
*TA NEA (The major Greek newspaper for the Greek community in the UK), Hellenic
Genocide Commemoration outside the UN, Saturday April 11, 2009:
http://web.mac.com/tanea_london/TANEAonLINE/Salt-Pepper.html
*XRONOS Radio and XRONOS Newspaper (The major News outlet of Thrace in the Greek
city of Komotini or Greek: Κομοτηνή) interviews Theofanis Malkidis on the
Hellenic Genocide Commemoration, Friday, April 10, 2009:
http://www.xronos.gr/interviews/detail.php?ID=45566
*PanARMENIAN.NET Armenian News Agency, “Victims of the Armenian and Hellenic
Genocides were commemorated in New York”, Wednesday April 8, 2009:
http://www.panarmenian.net/news/eng/?nid=30248
* Ethnikos Kyrix, or The National Herald (New York-based Greek American
Newspaper) in the Greek- language edition ran two pages on our Commemoration
including a front page directly underneath a picture of Obama visiting the Saint
Sophia Cathedral in Constantinople, Wednesday April 8, 2009
Page 1 (PDF)
http://thraciangenocide.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/COMMEMORATION_NATHERALD_Page1.105131034.pdf
Page 7 (PDF)
http://thraciangenocide.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/COMMEMORATION_NATHERALD_p7.105131115.pdf
The aforementioned report from XRONOS, interviewing our main speaker Dr.
Theofanis Makidis, was also published in the hugely popular world wide Pontian
website Pontos World:
http://pontosworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1279&Itemid=87
Prior to the event we also received coverage from news sources as diverse as:
Daily Frappe, Greek Alert blog, Hellenic Lines Newspaper, Hellenic Revenge blog,
Olympia blog, FiloPatria blog, Hellenic Antidote blog, Greek Realm and Eleftheri
Ora Newspaper, to mention just a few, here are the links to some of those
weblogs expressing enthusiasm and support for our commemoration across the
blogosphere:
http://hellenicantidote.blogspot.com/2009/03/greek-genocide-in-thrace.html
http://hellenicrevenge.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_9175.html
http://ellinaspatriotis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_5080.html
http://www.greekalert.com/2009/03/blog-post_3927.html
http://makelio.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_9469.html
http://enantion-olwn.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_2564.html
http://tolimeri.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_5664.html
http://iwnasdragoumis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_559.html
http://skeftomasteellhnika.blogspot.com/2009/03/ta.html
http://egersis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_460.html
http://blog-tou-fititi.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_8406.html
*The Athens-based Greek daily newspaper Eleftheri Ora, expressed excitement
about the Hellenic Genocide Commemoration running the front page title “Κάτι
κινείται... “(Trans: Something is being done!)
http://www.elora.gr/portal/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1331&Itemid=1
The ThracianGenocide website (www.ThracianGenocide.org) has also made available
additional high resolution pictures for viewing and download:
http://thraciangenocide.org/photos_of_thracian_greek_genocide_commemoration_outside_the_un_on_april_6_2009
More interesting video footage of our Hellenic Genocide commemoration (including
interviews) is expected to be released following modification. Stay tuned.
Finally, we would like to thank the many people, of various backgrounds, around
the world, who called or e-mailed us, congratulating us on our successful
Hellenic Genocide commeoration, and offering their help and support.
========================
Join our E-list on the web at WWW.THRACIANGENOCIDE.ORG
The Thracian Genocide website and Thracian Genocide affirmation is a cooperative
and collective effort by the Pan Thracian Union of America "ORPHEUS", the
Hellenic League of America HLA and the works , action and spirit of many
Hellenic, Phil Hellene and American scholars and activists.
Contact: Nikolaos Taneris, New York, Tel. (917) 699-9935
Following the success of our "Stop the Cycle of Denial" Hellenic Genocide
Commemoration in front of the United Nations in New York on April 6, 2009, a
number of media outlets gave coverage of the event. Some of the media outlets
that mentioned the Hellenic League of America (HLA) or the Pan Thracian Union of
America “ORPHEUS” include:
* GREEK NEWS Greek-American Weekly Newspaper, “Hellenic Genocide Commemoration
outside the UN”, Monday April 13, 2009:
http://www.greeknewsonline.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=10214
*TA NEA (The major Greek newspaper for the Greek community in the UK), Hellenic
Genocide Commemoration outside the UN, Saturday April 11, 2009:
http://web.mac.com/tanea_london/TANEAonLINE/Salt-Pepper.html
*XRONOS Radio and XRONOS Newspaper (The major News outlet of Thrace in the Greek
city of Komotini or Greek: Κομοτηνή) interviews Theofanis Malkidis on the
Hellenic Genocide Commemoration, Friday, April 10, 2009:
http://www.xronos.gr/interviews/detail.php?ID=45566
*PanARMENIAN.NET Armenian News Agency, “Victims of the Armenian and Hellenic
Genocides were commemorated in New York”, Wednesday April 8, 2009:
http://www.panarmenian.net/news/eng/?nid=30248
* Ethnikos Kyrix, or The National Herald (New York-based Greek American
Newspaper) in the Greek- language edition ran two pages on our Commemoration
including a front page directly underneath a picture of Obama visiting the Saint
Sophia Cathedral in Constantinople, Wednesday April 8, 2009
Page 1 (PDF)
http://thraciangenocide.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/COMMEMORATION_NATHERALD_Page1.105131034.pdf
Page 7 (PDF)
http://thraciangenocide.org/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/COMMEMORATION_NATHERALD_p7.105131115.pdf
The aforementioned report from XRONOS, interviewing our main speaker Dr.
Theofanis Makidis, was also published in the hugely popular world wide Pontian
website Pontos World:
http://pontosworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1279&Itemid=87
Prior to the event we also received coverage from news sources as diverse as:
Daily Frappe, Greek Alert blog, Hellenic Lines Newspaper, Hellenic Revenge blog,
Olympia blog, FiloPatria blog, Hellenic Antidote blog, Greek Realm and Eleftheri
Ora Newspaper, to mention just a few, here are the links to some of those
weblogs expressing enthusiasm and support for our commemoration across the
blogosphere:
http://hellenicantidote.blogspot.com/2009/03/greek-genocide-in-thrace.html
http://hellenicrevenge.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_9175.html
http://ellinaspatriotis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_5080.html
http://www.greekalert.com/2009/03/blog-post_3927.html
http://makelio.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_9469.html
http://enantion-olwn.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_2564.html
http://tolimeri.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_5664.html
http://iwnasdragoumis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_559.html
http://skeftomasteellhnika.blogspot.com/2009/03/ta.html
http://egersis.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_460.html
http://blog-tou-fititi.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post_8406.html
*The Athens-based Greek daily newspaper Eleftheri Ora, expressed excitement
about the Hellenic Genocide Commemoration running the front page title “Κάτι
κινείται... “(Trans: Something is being done!)
http://www.elora.gr/portal/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1331&Itemid=1
The ThracianGenocide website (www.ThracianGenocide.org) has also made available
additional high resolution pictures for viewing and download:
http://thraciangenocide.org/photos_of_thracian_greek_genocide_commemoration_outside_the_un_on_april_6_2009
More interesting video footage of our Hellenic Genocide commemoration (including
interviews) is expected to be released following modification. Stay tuned.
Finally, we would like to thank the many people, of various backgrounds, around
the world, who called or e-mailed us, congratulating us on our successful
Hellenic Genocide commeoration, and offering their help and support.
========================
Join our E-list on the web at WWW.THRACIANGENOCIDE.ORG
The Thracian Genocide website and Thracian Genocide affirmation is a cooperative
and collective effort by the Pan Thracian Union of America "ORPHEUS", the
Hellenic League of America HLA and the works , action and spirit of many
Hellenic, Phil Hellene and American scholars and activists.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Enotitan Revolution Quoted in Global Voices Online
Armenia-Turkey: Mixed reaction to Obama speech in Ankara
By
Onnik Krikorian
Read Full Article Here
I'd like to thank Mr. Krikorian for deeming the opinions posted here at Enotitan Revolution as quotable. Mr. Obama's recent trip to Turkey was a wake up call to both Hellenic-Americans and Armenian-Americans, that our issues will continue to be put on the back burner.
"Whether Democrat or Republican, The same scumbag government, Where scumbag brains are running shit" (Ill Bill)
By
Onnik Krikorian
Read Full Article Here
I'd like to thank Mr. Krikorian for deeming the opinions posted here at Enotitan Revolution as quotable. Mr. Obama's recent trip to Turkey was a wake up call to both Hellenic-Americans and Armenian-Americans, that our issues will continue to be put on the back burner.
"Whether Democrat or Republican, The same scumbag government, Where scumbag brains are running shit" (Ill Bill)
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