On Sat., April 11, the Turkish-American Cultural Association of Michigan (TACAM) sponsored an event featuring two heavyweight Armenian Genocide deniers—Bruce Fein and Michael Gunter—at Eastern Michigan University (EMU).

The Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) “Kopernik Tandourjian” Chapter and the Armenian National Committee of Michigan (ANC of MI) organized a peaceful protest against TACAM’s attempt to use an American institution to distort historical facts and to promote the agenda of the Turkish government.

In a show of silent protest, the AYF youth in attendance stood up and turned their backs to the denialists.

AYF youth came to EMU from all over Michigan to participate in the peaceful protest. They constituted the majority of the audience in the auditorium. Concurrently, approximately 50 members of the Armenian community participated in the protest outside of the auditorium. Within minutes of the opening presentation, one of the speakers indicated that what had happened to the Armenians in 1915 did not constitute genocide and that it should not be labeled as such. In a show of silent protest, the AYF youth in attendance stood up and turned their backs to the denialists, and displayed signs that read, “Armenian history is not for sale,” “Turkish youth: Learn the truth,” and “Morality above politics.” After a few minutes, the AYF members walked out of the auditorium, distributing four-page informational material on denialist efforts along the way. The Turkish crowd was furious at the youth, and invited them to stay and listen to the speakers’ distortion of facts.

“Our youth showed commendable dedication and discipline in the protest,” said AYF board member Taline Bedirian. It was “a strong reminder that [they] did not and will not forget what happened to their ancestors.” Another member of the AYF leadership, Araxie Tossounian, said that “it was inevitable to make a strong statement in face of the agenda of the Turkish government.”Arekel Chopjian, chairman of the AYF Senior chapter, added that “the youth were very motivated to answer the deniers.”

A peaceful protest against denialists Fein and Gunter

The ANC of MI last week wrote a formal letter to the president of EMU, Dr. Susan Martin, to express its concern and disappointment over the university’s hosting of the event.

Dr. Hovig Kouyoumdjian, a member of the ANCA Eastern Region Board, explained that “although discreditable, denialists were doing what they were asked to do, but it is our duty to prevent Turkey’s worldwide campaign of denial by defending our right as Americans to condemn any act of genocide.”

“What happened on Saturday was an act of conveying a powerful message that although 100 long years have passed since the Armenian Genocide, the grandchildren of survivors will always raise the voice of truth until justice is prevailed,” said Armenian community leader Raffi Ourlian.

The Detroit community will continue to host a series of events commemorating the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide. On Sat., April 18, the community hosted two prominent speakers—British writer and journalist Robert Fisk, and Armenian-American actor and novelist Eric Bogosian—at the Edsel Ford High School in Dearborn.

A scene from the protest

A scene from the protest

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On Sat., April 25, the Armenian Youth Federation-Youth Organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (AYF-YOARF) Eastern Region took over New York City’s Bowling Green Park to educate and engage the general public about the Armenian Genocide during a busy and high-profile 100th anniversary weekend.

The AYF organized this event with the intent to spread awareness of the Armenian cause and to educate non-Armenians about the atrocities of 1915. AYF Eastern Region members from different communities—Racine, Chicago, Providence, Boston, New York, and elsewhere—came together in unity to show that Turkey’s mission to annihilate the Armenians under the guise of World War I had failed.

The 40-foot long #NeverForget1915 banner became a tourist attraction in its own right.

“This event came about because the Central Executive wanted to make some noise in one of the biggest cities in the world on the Centennial weekend of the Armenian Genocide. We succeeded thanks to the drive and passion of our members, who were eager to educate non-Armenians about our cause,” said AYF Eastern Region Central Executive Chair Michelle Hagopian.

The AYF ER Central Executive stressed the importance of the weekend, and made attendance at the Times Square April 26 Genocide Commemoration mandatory for all who participated in Saturday’s event. The AYF also attended the “100 Years & Beyond” cultural event at the Hovnanian School in New Jersey on Saturday evening.

Taking school buses into Manhattan on the morning of April 25, the AYFers gathered in Bowling Green Park early in the day, ready to go once lunchtime hit and foot traffic would be high. The weather cooperated fully, making it easy to talk to people in the park as they passed through.

AYFers wore the same T-shirt (with the region’s hashtag #TurkeyFailed in large font on the back) for a cohesive message as they were divided up in the park. There was a table set up with several iPads that displayed educational YouTube videos on the genocide, the ANCA’s March to Justice campaign website, and the Kanye West concert in Swan Lake a few weeks earlier for passers-by to stop and watch. AYF members walked around the park and sidewalks handing out educational postcards about the genocide. The postcards also had an invitation to the Times Square April 26 genocide commemoration event.

“It’s great to see that we have representation from almost all of our AYF Eastern Region chapters, and we’re seeing a lot of younger ungers educating others and engaging with the public in a professional way,” said Nairi Khatchatourian, AYF Eastern Region Central Executive member.

That 40-foot banner was filled to the brim with signatures.

Participants asked the park-goers to sign different banners to stand for human rights and the victims of 1915. The banners had three major hashtags that the AYF and Armenian community have been using for months: #TurkeyFailed, #ArmenianGenocide, and #NeverForget1915. The AYF plans to use these banners throughout the Centennial year at major events.

Throughout the day, AYFers used different languages—including French, Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish—to draw in tourists visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The 40-foot long #NeverForget1915 banner became a tourist attraction in its own right.

One group of participants talked to several street performers who were eager to help spread awareness. They took dozens of postcards and approached others on the street themselves.

Not all interactions were as positive, as the AYF inevitably came across some Turkish government supporters. One man yelled “There was no genocide!” loudly at an AYF member.

AYFers were creative in how they approached those walking by. Quick pitches to pique the public’s interest included the following:

– Do you know what Pope Francis said a few weeks ago that riled up Turkey?

– Do you know where Kim Kardashian visited this month?

– Do you like Kanye West?

Once they had captured people’s attention, the AYFers were able to carry on a discussion by providing basic genocide facts that we all have learned over the years, including the Ottoman Turks’ use of the Euphrates River to dispose of the bodies, Turkey’s denial that a genocide ever took place (instead referring to it as mutual loss during World War I), and Raphael Lemkin’s coining of the term “genocide” decades ago.

“It was a great experience to see people from different backgrounds come up to me and ask about what we were doing. After we explained our cause to them, they would spread the word about it to others by handing out postcards through the goodness of their hearts,” said Gio Aktchian, a young Providence AYF member.

The AYF used the recognition Armenia has received in the global news cycle over the past month, and pulled up articles, video, and photos in the park for all to see.

AYF members stayed in the park from roughly noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, succeeding in obtaining thousands of signatures from non-Armenians and emphasizing the need for global recognition and education about the Armenian Genocide.

Before leaving the park, the group got on the steps of the nearby history museum and sang “Mer Hairenik” loudly and proudly while holding the #NeverForget1915 banner, and chanted “Turkey failed” afterward. The public stopped to take photos and video as AYFers wrapped up a day packed with activism.

That 40-foot banner was filled to the brim with signatures, as the AYF took it to Sunday’s events as well. Armenians and non-Armenians alike were thrilled to see the support garnered from something as simple as a signature. The AYF capped off the Centennial weekend by walking in unison in the Sunday march, leading chants, holding the banner, and experiencing the program in Times Square with more than 13,000 other Armenians.

#TurkeyFailed, indeed.

The AYF organized this event with the intent to spread awareness of the Armenian cause and to educate non-Armenians about the atrocities of 1915.

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In sports, players win and lose all the time. Often you can learn more from losing than winning. When elite athletes lose, it can be demoralizing. You feel like you got punched in the gut. All the hours in the gym, the sacrifices, and effort boils down to one thing—not achieving the goal you set out to achieve. Feelings of disappointment and hopelessness can engulf you, and a sense that it was all a waste of time settles in. That is how I felt when I heard that President Obama would not be keeping his promise to reaffirm the Armenian Genocide.

A protester holds a sign that reads, “#TurkeyFailed becuase I’m alive today.”

The elite athletes I mentioned earlier—the ones who are feeling sorry for themselves—after the dust settles and they reassess the situation, they all use the same word to describe their next emotion: HUNGER. They become hungry for more. They realize last season was last season, and they need to worry about next season. And they work harder to prepare to succeed.

Last year, the AYF-YOARF Eastern Region introduced #TurkeyFailed to the world. This was a powerful social media campaign unlike any other. #TurkeyFailed was unique and aimed to voice a different message. Much like William Saroyan’s famous words, #TurkeyFailed was a challenge and a proclamation of our survival. Serving as proof that we still laugh, sing, and dance. That we still read, write, and pray. Following President Obama’s statement, I began to notice a different attitude and message from the Armenian Diaspora. Gone were the days of the poor Armenians, being let down by another broken promise. Gone were the days where we quietly sat in disappointment while the world did not notice. In a response unlike any other year, the world cried out and said the feared “G word.” Major media outlets criticized President Obama for allowing his promise to be held captive by the Turkish government. And Armenians began to stand by the fact that what one individual was afraid to say, the world had already known. Turkey failed that day, when we moved forward, took control of our own past and future, and didn’t allow Turkey to dictate the terms.

Used by non-Armenians and Armenians worldwide, #TurkeyFailed is a mindset that has been woven into our communities. Politicians, athletes, musicians, and writers have all used and endorsed the slogan. To date, it has been used by individuals in more than 81 countries. This past week alone, #TurkeyFailed was used online 33,494 times. In a global collaboration, led by the AYF Western Region, #TurkeyFailed appeared on Snapchat and allowed users to watch live videos of protests and Centennial events taking place around the world. Utilizing this technology, Armenians in Lebanon, France, Brazil, New York, Canada, and elsewhere were instantly connected like never before.

‘Used by non-Armenians and Armenians worldwide, #TurkeyFailed is a mindset that has been woven into our communities.’

What we accomplished this past year will never be forgotten—the Kardashians’ trip to the Homeland, Kanye singing and swimming with Armenians, System of a Down rocking Republic Square, and the Pope standing by our side. On a community level, we must also not forget the AYFers in Canada and Detroit who publicly turned their backs on deniers. We must remember those who led protests and helped divest funds from Turkey. On a personal level, I will never forget that my brother Garo was able to participate in protests in Istanbul as a descendant of one of the intellectuals deported on April 24, 1915.

Heading into Year 101, we need to build on our efforts. Our work is not over now; it’s actually just begun. The torch has been passed, and it is time for the next generation to lead the Hai Tahd charge. Eventually, the Turkish government will admit its genocidal past and recognize it by the proper term. When that day happens, we need to be prepared. We need to continue to educate our youth and teach our language. We need to raise awareness, fundraise, and support Armenia. Until then, see what happens when two Armenians meet each other. Watch us laugh and sing (and even argue). See us send our children to camp and participate in the AYF Olympics. For when all of this happens, it is just another reminder that #TurkeyFailed.

You bet they did.

Ara Sarajian is a member of the AYF-YOARF Eastern Region Central Executive and AYF New Jersey “Arsen” Chapter. He’s also a four-time AYF-YOARF Olympics softball champion.

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YEREVAN—Over 160 participants gathered today at the invitation of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), the youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, for the 2015 International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY) World Council. Titled “An Equal World Is Possible,” the Council includes participants from 60 countries, with over 160 delegates representing various socialist youth organizations, in addition to over two dozen AYF representatives from Armenia, Artsakh, and the Diaspora.

Over 160 youth gathered in Yerevan for the 2015 IUSY World Council. (Photo: Patil Aslanian)

Welcoming remarks were made by Socialist International Vice-President Mario Nalbandian, who is a former ARF Bureau member, IUSY President Felipe Jeldres, IUSY Secretary General Evin Incir, and AYF representative Garabed Shatoyan.

Shatoyan stressed that as 2015 marks the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide, Armenian youth will continue to persevere as they begin a new phase demanding the Armenian peoples’ rights to reparations. He added that the youth will concurrently work on the continuous development and strengthening of Armenia.

As the world’s largest international youth organization, the World Council will discuss the political and financial reports of the IUSY, in addition to environmental issues, youth unemployment, education, and the role of youth in the protection of basic human rights.

On May 9, participants will visit the Armenian Genocide Museum and the Tsitsernakaberd (Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex) where they will lay flowers in remembrance of the victims of the Armenian Genocide.

In order to expose the guests from around the world to Armenian history and culture, the delegates will also visit touristic sites and museums in Yerevan.

The meeting will close in the late hours of May 9.

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YEREVAN (A.W.)—The International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY) World Council unanimously passed a resolution on the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, condemning the denial of the genocide and demanding justice for the crime. The World Council, which took place in Yerevan and was hosted by the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) of Armenia, adopted the resolution on May 9.

The resolution, which was proposed collectively by the AYF regions represented, states that IUSY supports the “Armenian people’s struggle for the recognition and reparation of the Armenian Genocide by calling upon Turkey to start an immediate process of eliminating the consequences of the Armenian Genocide and initiate a process of restoring the rights of the Armenian people.” It also notes that “IUSY believes this is the only reliable road to reconciliation of the two countries and nations.”

IUSY delegates paying their respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial at Dzidernagapert (photo: Patil Aslanian)

“The fact that the resolution was unanimously passed speaks measures,” said Nairi Khachatourian, who is in Yerevan representing AYF Eastern United States. “IUSY is sending a strong message to Turkey that true reconciliation between Armenia and Turkey can only be built upon recognition, reparations, and real justice.”

Titled, “An Equal World Is Possible,” the IUSY World Council includes participants from 60 countries, with over 160 delegates representing various socialist youth organizations, in addition to over two dozen AYF representatives from Armenia, Artsakh, and the Diaspora.

Earlier that day, participants of the council paid their respects to the 1.5 million victims of the genocide at the Armenian Genocide Memorial at Dzidernagapert.

Below is the text of the resolution:

***

PROPOSAL BY THE ARMENIAN YOUTH FEDERATION (AYF)

Resolution on the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide

The International Union of Socialist Youth (IUSY), being a faithful follower of the principles of justice, democracy, equality, and human rights, reaffirms its position on the Armenian Genocide as the world commemorates the 100th anniversary of the first Genocide of the 20th century.

The Armenian Genocide opened a whole new circle of genocides that were encouraged by the impunity of the perpetrators of the first genocide as well as inspired by its techniques and genocidal methods.

Genocide is a crime under international law contrary to the spirit and aims of the IUSY. This is why:

IUSY condemns the genocide against the Armenian people which was planned and carried out by the Ottoman Empire and various regimes in Turkey in 1915-23. During these years more than 1.5 million Armenians, living in their ancestral homeland (what is largely known as Eastern Turkey today), were brutally exterminated; their heritage was confiscated and largely destructed. The small number of Armenians who survived was spread all over the world.

IUSY strongly condemns the denial of the Armenian Genocide by the Turkish government as well as all the attempts of the Republic of Turkey to mute and bribe every initiative that is aimed at the recognition and reparation of the Armenian Genocide. IUSY believes that the denial of the genocide is a double crime that ought to be punished and has nothing in common with the right of freedom of expression.

IUSY supports the Armenian Youth Federation’s (AYF) and the Armenian people’s struggle for the recognition and reparation of the Armenian Genocide by calling upon Turkey to start an immediate process of eliminating the consequences of the Armenian Genocide and initiate a process of restoration of the rights of the Armenian people.  IUSY believes this is the only reliable road to reconciliation of the two countries and nations.

IUSY sees education as one of the most vital and constructive ways of fighting any form of extremism. With this, we call upon our member organizations to spread the knowledge of the Armenian Genocide, because only by knowing and condemning past genocides can we prevent new ones from taking place.

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Memorial Day weekend is meant to be a time to honor those who served in America’s armed forces (though for most it’s a long weekend to barbeque poolside and sleep in). For generations of Armenians across the East Coast, Memorial Day weekend is something different. We often relate it to 15-hour bus rides to a campground in the middle of nowhere, where the stars seem closer and our friends from across the region are only a cabin away. A weekend where our phones are set aside, our dining is scheduled, and squeezing in a few spare minutes to shower is our greatest concern. This may sound strange for those of you who have not attended an AYF Junior Seminar before, but there’s nothing better than your bus, filled to capacity and candy wrappers, rolling through the driveway at Camp Lutherlyn with your friends from far-away chapters just outside and the Junior Seminar Committee ready to welcome you with a folder of what lies in store for the weekend.

AYF members take a group photo with Catholicos Aram I and his delegation 

This Memorial Day weekend, more than 360 Juniors, Seniors, alumni, and lecturers came together for the 44th annual AYF-YOARF Junior Seminar themed “Նայինք Յառաջ, Քալենք Յառաջ: Look forward, move forward.” With an excellent panel of lecturers ranging from our very own alumni to filmmakers and special guests from the Holy See, our days consisted of riveting lectures and discussions that could go on for hours, divided by field games or a few rounds of “Euzun Esheg” where the brave participated and the smart enjoyed a freeze pop under the sun.

Lectures:

Tamar Kanarian: Armenian Identity/Now What?
Josh Tevekelian: Leaders in Training Program
Ara Sarajian, Nairi Khachatourian, Carnie Armenian: Centennial Recap
Zohrab Khaligian: The ARF Today
Steve Mesrobian: The ANCA
Sahak Zakarian: Javakhk
Phil Nigon: Taking the Initiative
Stephanie Ayanyan: A New Armenia
His Holiness Vehapar Aram I: Q&A Session

It seems that our Junior Seminars get more exciting each year.

For some it may have been making their mark on the “#NeverForget1915” banner with well over 3,000 signatures. For others, finally having their chance to ride a golf cart or raise the flag singing our anthem. And for many it may have been the Q&A session or taking a selfie with His Holiness Vehapar Aram I.

Josh Tevekelian runs the Leaders in Training Program 

Our evenings, on the other hand, were more competitive: The night activities consisted of a talent show of our traditional music and dances, where each chapter’s performances were choreographed in detail and more exciting than the next; and Armenian trivia and scavenger hunts where Juniors were greeted by a mock Etchmiadzin service or jumped at answering questions earning points for their team.

Catholicos Aram I blesses the Armenian tricolor 

Of course, Seminar would not be complete if it weren’t for more than 300 campers participating in a massive shourchbar followed by revolutionary songs standing arm in arm.

The range of lectures and activities at AYF Junior Seminar this year were more than ample to keep everyone engaged throughout the weekend, not wanting one activity to end but looking forward to the next. I’m sure if it weren’t for the need for fresh laundry, we would have refused getting on the busses Monday morning, hoping to stay longer.

Generations of AYF-ers can vouch that when the youth of our community come together for the Armenian Cause we accomplish what cannot be put in to words. We are not only revitalized as individuals but empowered as an organization.

Those of you who have had the opportunity to experience this, to be a part of something greater, know the potential that being involved in our community holds. Our youth are our next generation of modern-day leaders. The next Dro, Sosse Mayrig, and Papken Suini lies within us, within the AYF. Նայինք Յառաջ, Քալենք Յառաջ.

A scene from the flag raising ceremony 

Catholicos Aram I signs the #neverforget1915 banner 

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Over 200 AYF Members from Across North America Attend

‘We survived the past and will fight for our future. A United, Free Armenia.’

From May 15-18, the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) of Canada hosted the biennial North American AYF Tri-Regional Seminar at Camp Kinkora in Quebec, Canada. An unprecedented 200 AYF members from Montreal, Laval, Toronto, Cambridge, Vancouver, St. Catharines, as well as from the Eastern and Western United States attended the three-day seminar. Members from 16 AYF chapters were represented.

An unprecedented 200 AYF members from Canada and the United States attended the three-day seminar (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee of Canada chairman Mher Karakashian (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

The AYF Tri-Regional Seminar takes place every two years, with AYF Canada, AYF Eastern U.S., and AYF Western U.S. alternatively hosting the special gathering. The seminar provides a unique opportunity to unite AYF members from across North America to share their insight, enhance their knowledge, establish life-long bonds with fellow AYF-ers, and create new ideas to better the organization and further the Armenian Cause.

As this year marks the Armenian Genocide Centennial, the seminar’s theme was the AYF’s ultimate goal: a united, free Armenia. The organizers crafted the seminar’s program around the future—how the youth led by the AYF could build on the momentum of the 100^th anniversary to drive the Armenian Cause forward. Topics focused not only on Hai Tahd and political activism, but also on bringing positive social and economic change in Armenia with the understanding that we will only achieve our goals through the collective efforts of a strong Armenia and a strong diaspora.

ANCA communications director Elizabeth Chouldjian (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

Lecturers included ARF Canada Central Committee chairman Raffi Donabedian; former chairman of the Armenian National Committee of America and prominent activist Mourad Topalian; Armenian National Committee of America communications director Elizabeth Chouldjian; Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee of Canada chairman Mher Karakashian; Armenian National Committee of Canada Executive Director Apraham Niziblian; and Professor of International Relations and ARF leader Dr. Khatchik Der Ghougassian (via Skype).

Led by the expert panel of speakers, the AYF-ers also had the chance to participate in practical workshops to learn and refine their skills in advocacy and activism. Through the workshops, the members made recommendations that the AYF can execute within our diasporan communities and in Armenia.

Throughout the weekend, participants also had the unique opportunity to create life-long memories with their fellow ungers. Entertainment at the seminar was provided through a variety of outdoor activities, including singing revolutionary songs around a nightly campfire, and the seminar’s very own Tri-Regional AYF band.

The seminar concluded with remarks by ARF Bureau Representative Hrant Markaryan, who joined the group via Skype. After an engaging Q&A session, Markaryan concluded his message by stressing that the AYF is the fuel that fires and strengthens the ARF.

Former chairman of the ANCA and prominent activist Mourad Topalian speaks to the AYF members (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

The AYF Tri-Regional Seminar Kitchen Crew (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

A scene from the panel discussion (Photo: Ishkhan Ghazarian)

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Softball is not an official AYF Olympic sport. That means no points are awarded to the final chapter totals.  While this may be the case, no one seems to be worried about this little detail. Over the years, softball has grown in popularity to the point where it’s now called Softball Saturday. Everyone makes a day out of it with plenty of food and fun. It almost always turns out to be a competitive and exciting event; win, lose, or draw, players always shake hands and hug after the game.

One would think softball has been a part of the AYF Olympics for all 85 years. That is not the case. Saturday used to be dedicated to Track and Field preliminaries for many years. There was also soccer and tug-of-war. We may even have tried baseball and softball for a few years back in the 1940s, 50s, or 60s.

It was actually Robert Najarian and Chuck Ouligian’s idea to introduce at the AYF Olympics. During their time at Northeastern University, they played the three-pitch game, shrinking a 90-minute game into seven innings (about one hour). The first games were at the 1984 Watertown Olympics on the fields behind Harvard Stadium.

Najarian’s brother, David, has been a dedicated umpire, keeping scores and statistics for the AYF softball games for 32 years. I learned about his involvement and history of AYF Softball at the same time. A contractor by trade (his last name Najarian means ‘carpenter’), David says he has enjoyed his three-decades (and counting) as an umpire. “You show up and just do it. It is for our family and community.”

Najarian reflected on the 1984 Hartford Olympics and a 3-2 game between Providence and Watertown. “I can’t even remember who won,” said Najarian. But what he does remember is that “from day one, everyone played hard and then would shake hands after. It is a perfect game for a fraternal organization.” Najarian would like to see Olympic medals awarded for softball. “I love that I see the next generation of AYFers playing softball just as their parents did.”

This year, 12 teams participated in the AYF Softball Tournament. Last year’s top four teams, Detroit, New Jersey, Western US, and Greater Boston, had byes in the first round. The Mixed Chapter Team lost to Washington, D.C 18-4. Philadelphia dominated Manhattan 12-5. Chicago and North Andover squared off with Chicago surging to secure a 10-9 win. In a tight first round game between Providence and New York, Providence won 10-9 with a walk-off grand slam home run from Nareg Mkrtschjan in the bottom of the 7th inning. “It was unbelievable,” recalled Mkrtschjan, “We were down 9-6 with one out. I hit a fast shot down the right field line which bounced right past the right fielder, and I drove in the three runs on base. My teammates mobbed me around third base. We couldn’t have been happier.”

The seeded teams all played in the second round. Detroit crushed Washington 15-0, leading everyone to believe they would be repeat softball champions. New Jersey took on the home team, who desperately wanted to beat their neighboring rival. But, New Jersey prevailed 11-8, while California outslugged Providence 18-9. Greater Boston bested Chicago 18-11.

In the third round, California showed both power and defense in beating Boston 13-3. New Jersey faced Detroit, which is always a grudge match. These two teams have faced each other in several finals over the years.  Detroit pulled ahead with two monster homeruns, perhaps the longest ever hit in AYF softball, from Mike Haase and Michael Nercessian. Detroit won 13-7.

Last year’s final repeated itself, as California and Detroit faced off. Detroit ended up winning in 2017. After the impressive hitting and fielding performance of Detroit, most assumed another Detroit championship. But California brought their A game, and the Detroit bats got a bit quiet. California ended up winning its first AYF softball championship 13-7.

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is a Supply Chain Management consultant and professor of Mathematics and Statistics. He is an avid blogger and plays the oud in two Armenian Ensembles in Chicago. His blog: http://thissideoffifty. blogspot.com/

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This is the article I always leave to the last to pen. It is a reflection from a social and fraternal perspective on this year’s AYF Olympics and how this ‘stone’ adds to the 85 year old structure we have all been a part of building.  It is also an homage to Angel Perethian, Washington, D.C. and the articles she wrote for many years for The Armenian Weekly: Angel Over the Olympics. Perethian wrote a very social and interesting who’s who at the Olympics. Tom Vartabedian always said, “It was the first article people turned to when the Olympics issue of The Weekly arrived.” I believe he was correct in this. Hence the title of my article as I am neither Angel nor am I not close to being an angel.

First and foremost, hats off to Philadelphia! What a fantastic Olympics weekend! Bravo and kudos to the awesome team led by co-chairs Shant Aghajanian and Gevork Dramgotchian. Everything ran like clockwork. All events were well-attended. New Jersey Arsen and Central Executive member Kyle Dinkjian said it best, “The Philadelphia Sebouh chapter and community maximized all the features that make AYF senior Olympics great to create a truly amazing weekend for everyone who attended.”

When we pulled up to the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott on Thursday afternoon, we saw Olympic King Harry and Clare Kushigian sitting on a bench outside ready to greet us.

It will be hard for me to write this article without referring to my father, Olympic King Aram “Sonny” Gavoor, who passed away this past June. The AYF, specifically the AYF Olympics, was a major part of his life. He was a coach of the Detroit Chapter and on the Governing Body for several years. The Central Executive dedicated the Track and Field events in his memory. So many people came up to us to express their condolences and share inspiring or humorous stories about Coach Sonny. It was truly special.

As the AYF Olympics is about old friends, especially at our age, it was great to hang out with Rich Berberian and Chris, Michael and Armenie Varadian, the Antranigians, the Bonjuklians, the Dinkjians, and whoever else passed by. As we all know, whether it has been a year or three, old AYF friends pick-up right where they left off without missing a beat.

We missed seeing Ken Topalian. It was great however seeing Dina and the two boys, Alexan and Shahan, enjoying the weekend. It was especially fun seeing Shahan competing in his first Olympics. It was fun seeing his cousin from Detroit, Nick Sarafian, raise him from the stands. These two cousins were a comedy act that was thoroughly entertaining.

It was bittersweet to witness Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan address us, bless us, and lead us in prayer for the last time as the Prelate of the Eastern United States. His encouraging and kind words have been a special part of the opening ceremonies for the past 19 years.  

Carol, David, and Glenn Papazian did a great job with the Ad Book. It was refreshing to see the return of an enhanced history section. It was one of the largest and most lucrative books in the history of the AYF Olympics.

The kiddie race is always entertaining at the track and field. This year, the Philadelphia Chapter sold future AYFer shirts that easily half of the children in the kiddie race were sporting. And there is always that one boy or girl who doesn’t stop at the finish line and just keeps going. Speaking of which, this year, in his first ever kiddie race, was my own four-year old grandson Aris Gabriel Gavoor. We were talking about the kiddie race and he told me, “Dede, I am very fast.” I thought it was very cute. Later, when his dad handed him to me from the stands for the kiddie race, Aris took off as soon as his feet hit the track. He ran a 200 in the wrong direction. We gathered him up, and he assembled with the other children at the starting line.  He did not win the actual kiddie race, but he did not stop. He ran a full lap, 400 meters, and looked good doing it. We knew his great-grandfather, Coach Sonny, was smiling down upon him and, most likely, urging him to run smart and keep his pace. It was a beautiful thing to watch.

One of the great highlights of Olympic weekend is the Alumni Dance on Friday night. The host chapter’s alumnae ladies strive to live-up, if not out-do, the hospitality shown in other AYF cities. Yes, I am talking about the buffet, the food, the feast served up at the Alumni Dance. This year, the team led by Dori Keshgegian and Debbie Tashjian provided a bountiful and delicious spread.

I always enjoy our Sunday morning breakfast with Peter and Marianne Bonjuklian. Our friendship has been especially strengthened over the years because of our AYF Olympic Sunday breakfasts. We are not sure how it started, but it is a tradition that neither of us would give up.  

The Vosbikians’ performance at the Olympic Ball exemplified a Philadelphia treasure that has helped folk music of the “old country” become part of our family tradition. They were joined by Onnik and Ara Dinkjian. The sound was awesome and the dance floor was full.

I had heard glowing testimonials about Apricot Stone in Philadelphia. The food was amazing from boeregs to kebabs. But, the piece de la resistance was the Midya dolma. Rich Berberian couldn’t believe it. “The BEST Midya dolma I’ve had in years! Dare I say, better than my grandmother’s!”

It’s always a treat to see Harout Pamboukjian live. He’s a showman with an incredible following; like any other dance he hosts, he filled up the AYF dance floor that night.

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is a Supply Chain Management consultant and professor of Mathematics and Statistics. He is an avid blogger and plays the oud in two Armenian Ensembles in Chicago. His blog: http://thissideoffifty. blogspot.com/

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Philadelphia, First Place

Former Philadelphia track star and past Governing Body member, Dave Papazian, started coaching the Sebouhs several ago. He gave his thoughts on repeating as champions this year but chose not to comment on possibly retiring the Cup next year in Chicago:

“Defending the Cup at home was not as easy as some would think, and I knew this going into the summer. The games being located in the middle of the East Coast meant that other Chapters were coming loaded. I told the team we needed to do more than show up, we needed to be really good. They were really good. The kids rose up again as a total team, filling relays from deep on the roster and earning golds, silvers & bronzes equally to take us over the top at home.

“Friday night, my feelings were complicated. We didn’t quite match our expected point total but after it was over I felt good. We had more swimmers than usual, partly because multiple team members had to compete on Friday instead of Sunday for various reasons. As an example, our top triple jumper and solid distance man Alec Arakelian broke his foot this spring but still earned a silver in the backstroke as a replacement event. Michael Ballard returned this year with silvers in the 50 & 100 free. But what makes this team tick are relays. We were able to get two golds and two silvers in the four swim relays and we did that with golfers (yes plural), pentathletes, shot putters, sprinters and jumpers.

“On Sunday I really felt confident the team was ready. Lindsey Santerian broke her own triple jump record that morning and added a javelin gold and long jump silver before noon. Her brother Mark matched that javelin gold and had already won gold in golf on Friday. At the start of the afternoon, Avi Keshgegian repeated gold in the hurdles. Tavit Frounjian works hard with Avi Keshgegian every summer on hurdles and was going to take his first silver medal, but fell after hitting late hurdles. I felt really bad for him, but he is a great kid and kept things in perspective with a smile. While I try to be conservative about scoring, I remember thinking this was not going to matter, and mostly just felt bad for Tavit after working so hard. We immediately followed that with golds in the Men’s & Women’s 4×100 relays, confirming the positive vibes.

“One strength of our team is the male sprinters, and they always draw great competition from other chapters as well. Eric Papazian led the crew this year by winning his first 200 meter race and also getting silver in the 100 and bronze in the 400. His teammate and previous gold medalist Masis Mardirosyan pushed him all summer and expects to return to the gold medal stand himself next year. Masis’s brother Mher repeated his 400 victory from last year and is only seventeen. On the longer runs, Chapter President Anto Keshgegian continued his now clock-like results in the distances, with a gold, silver & silver.

“Our pentathletes, Aram Keshgegian, and his cousins Jessica & Kelsey Sarkisian were totally engaged in their events all day long, bringing us gold, silver & silver for 33 points. But again, it was teamwork more than individual stardom; Jess [Sarkisian] stayed back to cajole sister Kelsey around that second lap of the 800, ensuring a Sisterly Love gold & silver. Jessica will be one of our few losses for 2019 and it will be a huge void. I am really proud of what she has accomplished for us. She is never too tired to be a part of every relay despite entering the most grueling individual event offered.

“For the late day relays, we overcame injury replacements and a dropped baton to do what we do best, score in relays. Acting for a moment as “dad/coach”, I told my son Eric that I wanted him to be the last runner to break the tape at the 2018 Philly Olympics for the Mixed 4×200. He overcame exhaustion to do just that, making me jump about as high as I have in 20 years. I am really proud to be part of this Philly Sebouh Olympic Team, they truly deserved this victory.”

Greater Boston, Second Place

Second place Greater Boston was coached and guided by chapter veteran members this year headed by Araxi Krafian, Eric Movsesian and Alex Avakian. Araxi shared her feelings about the team:

“This year’s Boston Olympic team was constructed differently than our recent successful teams. They rallied around a mission to draw out big participation numbers through the efforts of their three team Captains – Araxi Krafian, Alex Avakian and Eric Movsesian. We had practice, but attendance was light. Between internships, travel, college sports, not to mention that ten of our athletes were Camp Haiastan counselors this summer, and reliable team leaders Shant Mahrokhian and Daniel Chakmakjian (both injured) and Nairi Krafian (in Armenia) not participating…you could say that our practices didn’t engender confidence. On the other hand, members signed up to participate, and as importantly, showed up for their events without exception.

“What we lost in reliable point scoring performances, we made up for with numbers: Boston managed to field competitors in all but 5 events; we scored in every available relay; we had six junior transfers compete; and superb team spirit for every one of our athletes regardless of event or result. Taking nothing away for standout performances by Daron Hamparian, Anoush Arakelian, Eric Movsesian, Anoush Krafian, Alex Avakian….It was Boston’s year for the lesser known athletes to leave Philly having made a big impression and a meaningful impact on these games. There is little doubt that the long term benefit from this type of total team effort will surely lead to great outcomes from the group. Expect big things from Boston over the next several years.”

New Jersey, Third Place

The New Jersey Arsens finished in third place this year and they were helped by former Central Executive member, Ara Sarajian, who shared his thoughts on their efforts:

“The 2018 New Jersey Arsen Olympic team was one that experienced a great deal of transformation. Welcoming 12 new members to the team, we knew that, going into these games, we’d have a very young group and would be counting on every member to do their part throughout the weekend.

“Recently, the team’s recipe for success has included a strong performance at the tennis courts. On the Women’s side, Katia and Lina Ariyan and Ana Bandazian ensured our sweep of the medals. On the Men’s side Matt Tarzian and Kyle Dinkjian were able to finish 2nd and 4th. Additionally Theresa Jelalian and Shayna McCarthy (this year’s Ernest Nahigian Sportsmanship Award recipient) finished first and second in golf. After all of Friday events concluded, we found ourselves in fifth place but knew that we were within striking distance of another top 3 finish.

“After a spirited performance in the Softball tournament. The team met and agreed that our expectation was to place and everyone would show up on Sunday to put up a fight in hopes of another chapter dance.

“The team arrived early on Sunday and got straight to work. Staying focused and hydrated throughout a long and hot day was challenging. A ton of credit goes to our more senior members to keep everyone at the track and ensure that no one left early. As points started to get tallied, we saw that it would be very close between us and Detroit for third. With a fully loaded relay team and Arev Dinkjian and Paul Chamesian in the pentathlon, we were able to finish the day strong and pick a total of 72 points – ensuring third place and New Jersey’s fourth time placing top three in five years.

“The team was proud of their accomplishment this year and excited to get an infusion of youth. As usual, all Arsen members were on the dance floor and loudly celebrating the weekend’s success. While the team jokes that our unofficial motto is ‘Third Place Is So Us’ you can see that many of our members are starting to work toward the goal of bringing New Jersey their first Olympic title. The team is very excited for Chicago and we look forward to seeing you all there.”

Author information

Bob Tutunjian

Bob Tutunjian is President of Vivaproducts, a medical device company in Massachusetts. He has been actively involved with the AYF and the Olympics since 1967 and has written many articles covering this event.

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The last chapter to defend an Olympics Cup was the Philadelphia AYF in 2008. That year in Detroit, they actually retired a Cup with their third consecutive win. This year the Sebouhs scored 158 points to edge out a strong Greater Boston contingent by only 9 points. It marked the closest margin of victory since 1966 when Montreal topped Providence by a score of 103-95.5. Back then, the Olympics were much smaller in scope with fewer events and they generally were closer affairs.

Philadelphia took men’s golf and almost beat Boston in the swim meet to hold a slim 37-35 overall point lead. The two teams kept going head to head on Sunday, and when the standings were announced just before the final few events, the Nejdehs had seized the lead 110-108. But then Jessica and Kelsey Sarkisian finished 1-2 for the Sebouhs in the women’s pentathlon. While Boston’s Daron Hamparian took gold in the men’s pentathlon, Aram Keshgegian’s silver helped Philadelphia maintain a 16 point lead. The Nejdehs bounced back to trim the margin to 6 by winning the baseball throw and men’s high jump. But then the home team took gold and bronze in the men’s 400 to extend the margin to 10 before the final three relays and essentially seal the victory.

Philadelphia once again balanced out their medal totals with nine golds, 12 silvers and six bronzes along with winning five relays. The team was definitely a family affair with Mark and Lindsey Santerian scoring 24 points, the Sarkisian sisters doing the same and the three Keshgegian brothers adding 26. This accounted for over half of the chapter’s point total excluding relays. Greater Boston took home the most gold medals—15— including three in relays. The Nejdehs were led by Anoush Krafian, who won triple gold again, along with Anoush Arakelian and Eric Movsesian, who each scored 13 points. Last year’s runner-up New Jersey scored 72 points, many of which came from their total of 15 bronze medals. The Arsen’s leading scorer was veteran Ani Sarajian, who won the shot put. Detroit rounded out the top four chapters with 63.5 points. Team KT featured Melanie Sarafian with 11 points in the sprints and Knar Topouzian, who took golds in the pool and on the track.

Providence scored 48 points with rookie Lily Kernaghan winning three swimming golds, two in record breaking fashion. Next year’s host Chicago was sixth with 32 points as Andrew Devedjian also won three events in the pool. North Andover was close behind scoring 30 as Armen and Meline Almasian each won a pair of golds. Washington, D.C had 15 points for eighth place, while Racine scored 14. Middlesex West scored eight points in its first Olympics, all from Araz Dulgarian. Three West Coast chapters followed; Orange County and North Valley had six points each and West San Fernando scored five. New York was 14^th with 4.5 points while Worcester and Manhattan tied for 15^th with four points each. The Western Region also scored four points with its combined relay teams. Glendale rounded out the chapter scoring with three points. North Andover took home the Most Improved Chapter trophy while the Western Region won its first softball championship.

Author information

Bob Tutunjian

Bob Tutunjian is President of Vivaproducts, a medical device company in Massachusetts. He has been actively involved with the AYF and the Olympics since 1967 and has written many articles covering this event.

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The swimming events were dominated by two triple gold medal winners from Providence and Chicago, but Greater Boston used depth to win the team scoring over Philadelphia. Before the final three relays, the Sebouhs and Nejdehs both trailed the surprising Ararats with the Varantians close behind. Philly ultimately won the women’s and men’s freestyle relays to pull into a tie for the lead with Boston at 29 points each. But the Nejdehs set a new record in the final coed relay to secure the title 34-32. High scorer Andrew Devedjian and sister Ally scored all of Chicago’s 26 points while record-setting Lily Kernaghan led Providence to fourth place. Racine and Detroit scored 14 and 9 points respectively and Middlesex West recorded its first eight Olympics points as a chapter. New Jersey had six, just ahead of West San Fernando Valley (five) and Manhattan (four). North Andover completed the chapter scoring with one point.

WOMEN’S SWIMMING

Rookie Lily Kernaghan won three events for Providence and topped last year’s high scorer from Chicago, Ally Devedjian, in two of her events. Kernaghan first won the 50 yard freestyle, ahead of Devedjian and Emily Barsamian of Manhattan. Kernaghan had set a new record of 24.75 earlier in the trials of the event. Kernaghan took the 100 free in 54.72 over the same two ladies, missing the record by 0.35 of a second. She also set a new record of 28.13 in the 50 yard backstroke in front of Azniv Khaligian from Racine and Araz Dulgarian from Middlesex West. Azniv had earlier won the 25 freestyle in 13.47 just ahead of Araz and Jersey veteran Theresa Jelalian. Dulgarian won another silver in the 50 breaststroke behind Knar Topouzian of Detroit who had a time of 43.48. Azniv’s sister Areknaz took the bronze. In the last individual event, Devedjian bounced back to win the 25 butterfly in 13.53. Azniv won the silver and Boston’s Araxi Krafian was third.

Finally the girls 4×25 relay saw the host chapter pull away to win in 1:07.54. Detroit took second ahead of New Jersey and Boston.

MEN’S SWIMMING

In the men’s events, Andrew Devedjian from Chicago took three golds after nearly performing that sweep in 2015. That year Devedjian easily won both freestyles but was touched out in the butterfly. This year, Devedjian topped Michael Ballard of Philadelphia in both freestyle events. Boston’s Joey Charchaflian took bronze in the 50 while Ballard’s teammate Raffi Pogharian was third in the 100.  Devedjian recorded times of 24.91 and 58.28. He capped off his evening with a time of 26.22 in the 50 butterfly as Boston veteran Eric Movsesian finished second and Sebouh Raffi Dadaian was third. Movsesian had previously won the other two men’s events decisively. He took the breaststroke in 36.97, ahead of Providence’s Sevan Zobian and Philly’s Garno Khararjian. Movsesian also won the backstroke with a time of 36.18. Alex Arakelian from Philadelphia and Haig Krikorian from West San Fernando took home the other medals.

In the 4×50 medley relay event, Greater Boston came from behind to beat Philadelphia in 2:23.93 with the Western Region team in third. The Sebouhs bounced back in the 4×50 freestyle relay to best the Nejdehs with a time of 1:56.72 while the West Coast quartet took third again. The final event was the coed 4×50 freestyle relay where Greater Boston set a new record of 2:10.16. Philadelphia and New Jersey placed second and third.

Author information

Bob Tutunjian

Bob Tutunjian is President of Vivaproducts, a medical device company in Massachusetts. He has been actively involved with the AYF and the Olympics since 1967 and has written many articles covering this event.

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A pair of lifelong AYF members with at least 100 years of community service between them were honored during the 2018 AYF Olympics weekend. Glenn Papazian and Andrew Kzirian received the Varadian Spirit Award.

For Papazian, the award was a reflection of his family as well as his mother, Ann, who was Olympic queen in 2010. That’s the last time the games were in Philadelphia. Papazian has been an active member of the AYF since the 1960s. He has been an AYF executive and a notable basketball player. He was also a coach from 1978-1989, winning AYF basketball championships in back-to-back fashion in 1983 and 1984. Expressing his gratitude, Papazian said it’s also special being recognized in the same year as Rich Keshgegian and Mike Shamlian—two players he coached in basketball.

Papazian has also been on a string of Philadelphia Olympic committees, pouring his energy into his work and enthusiastically motivating others to do the same. In 1995, he co-chaired Olympics with Rick Keshgegian and seven years later, he co-chaired with Dave Papazian and Anto Baronian. Then in 2010 and again this year, he chaired all Olympic athletic activity.

Papazian is also active in his church community, serving as chair and on the board of trustees for 11 years. He was also editor of the church newsletter—“Illuminator.”

Co-recipient and friend Kzirian said, “Glenn is a 24/7 community inspiration.” Kzirian, a longtime activist, said he’s proud that his sons, Jim and Andrew, are helping to carry on his legacy. Both have followed in their father’s footsteps and have become leaders in the AYF. “We all try to help perpetuate our identity for our kids and communities. This is very meaningful,” said Kzirian.  

Kzirian has been an active member of the Philadelphia Sebouh chapter since the 1960s. He was a member of the the AYF Central Executive Committee in 1970 when he helped write the still widely used AYF Central Executive blue books. In 1977, he was the director of Camp Haiastan. Kzirian has always been an active member of the Philadelphia ARF, committed to supporting new members as a lecturer and mentor for the ARF Novice Program. Kzirian has also chaired April 24 commemoration committees and the Armenian Inter-Communal Committee (five churches) of Philadelphia’s 102nd anniversary of Genocide event. As an active member of St. Gregory’s Church of Philadelphia, Kzirian served on the Board of Trustees from 1989-1993 and has been an NRA delegate since 2013.

Kzirian’s longtime support and commitment to the community truly reflect his AYF spirit, an internal drive he has kept alive for decades.

These perpetually giving spirits—Glenn Papazian and Andrew Kzirian—are well-represented in the meaning behind Mal Varadian’s award. “Be an AYF member, be an active participant and supporter in your community, and give back when you leave the organization to maintain and improve it—make it better—for others who come along.”

Author information

Harry Derderian

Harry Derderian is a native of Indian Orchard, Mass and resident of Farmington Hills, Mich. He is a member of the Marketing faculty at Eastern Michigan University as well as adjunct professor of marketing at University of Michigan-Dearborn and adjunct Professor of Business at Schoolcraft Community College.

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MEN’S TRACK & FIELD

The men’s events saw much diversity with only three double winners. First was Alex Avakian from Greater Boston. Avakian won the discus with a toss of 143’6”, about 8’ shy of his record in the event. Detroit’s Sarkis Dagley and defending champion Alexan Topalian took silver and bronze. Avakian then put the shot 44’9” to beat Topalian again while Razmig Boyajian from New York was third. Finally Avakian placed third in the javelin which was won by Mark Santerian for the fifth consecutive year. Providence rookie Zach Semerjian was second in the event.  On the track, Washington’s Peter Barsamian won both the distance events. He ran 5:05.9 in the 1600 and 11:40.0 in the 3200 meter races where defending champ Anto Keshgegian was second in both events. Greater Boston took bronze in both these events with Sam Chakmakjian in the 3200 and Hampton Trout in the 1600. Keshgegian did bounce back to win the 800 in 2:19.1 finishing ahead of teammates Mher Mardirosyan and Eric Sirinian from New Jersey. The third double winner for the men was North Andover’s Armen Almasian. Almasian won the long jump easily with a distance of 20’11.75” while Worcester’s Mike Melkonian and Philly’s Paze Yeremian won the other medals. Almasian then moved to the track where he won the 100 meter dash in a time of 11.50. Eric Papazian from Philadelphia and Boston’s Vasken Kebabjian were right behind in a close finish.

The host chapter dominated the other men’s track events. First Avi Keshgegian defended his hurdles crown in 18.00. Greater Boston’s Andre Kotikian and Jersey’s Viken Manjikian were close behind. Eric Papazian then ran 24.4 to win the 200 over fellow Sebouh Masis Mardirosyan with Vasken Kebabjian in third. In the 400, Masis’ brother Mher took the gold in 55.90 while Papazian won the bronze. Haig Pakhchanian from Washington took silver and was only 0.2 second off the winning time. In the other field events, Armand Keosian from North Valley was this year’s only winner from the West Coast. He defended his triple jump title with a distance of 37’11.25”. Kotikian from Boston and Mher Mardirosyan from Philly were both less than a foot behind in second and third. In the high jump, three men all jumped 5’4” so the medals were decided by the athlete with the fewest misses. Sam Chakmakjian placed first just like he did back in 2016. Last year’s winner Nareg Mkrtschjan (Prov.) and Aram Cholakian (Det.) were second and third.    

Philadelphia and Greater Boston took the top two places in both of the men’s relays. The Sebouhs won the 4×100 meter race in 46.1, while the Nejdehs took the 4×400 4:06.0. New Jersey took third place in the sprint relay while Providence did so in the 4×400.  

WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD

High scorer Anoush Krafian dominated the women’s track and field events and stayed undefeated in her four years of Olympics competition. Krafian started off cruising over the hurdles in 14.70, just missing her record time of 14.68. Ani Javardian from Philadelphia and Talia Boyajian of New Jersey took silver and bronze. Krafian then recorded a 25.70 in the 200 meter dash to beat Melanie Sarafian of Detroit and Anahid Jerikian of Chicago. She finally finished her individual events with her record of 5’4” in high jump. Detroit’s Knar Topouzian and Jersey’s Grace Ezgilioglu also medaled in the event. Another Anoush from Greater Boston won double gold in the women’s distance events. Anoush Arakelian is an accomplished marathoner having run Boston, Chicago, New York and Philadelphia with a personal best time of 3:15. She won the 1600 in 5:49.9 besting Lori Berberian from Glendale and teammate Alexis Cormier. Anoush then led a Nejdeh medal sweep in the 800 with a time of 2:51.2 ahead of Cormier and Sevan Dulgarian. She settled for silver in the 400 as Knar Topouzian won in 1:09.0 and Jersey’s Talia Boyajian was third.  This was Knar’s second gold as she had already won one in the pool.

Last year, North Andover’s Meline Almasian was a high scorer, but she came up a little short in Philadelphia. She tied with her brother as the long jump champion with a leap of 16’9.5”. Lindsey Santerian was close behind at 16’2” and Anahid Jerikian was third. Almasian then leaned to beat Melanie Sarafian from Detroit in the 50 meter dash in 6.8 seconds. But Sarafian turned the tables in the 100 with a photo finish time of 13.1. Almasian’s teammate, Meline Markarian, took bronze in both sprints. The only other double winner for the women was Lindsey Santerian. After her silver in the long jump, she bounced back to win the triple jump in a record of 33’2.5”. Araz Madenlian from Orange County took silver, and Anahid Jerikian won her third bronze. Santerian also won the javelin with a toss of 87’7” which was 25’ ahead of Sena Changelian from Boston and Arev Tossounian of Detroit. Sena came back to win the baseball with a throw of 158’3” besting Talia Oknayan (Det.) and Claudia Boyajian (NJ). In the other throwing events, Jersey’s Ani Sarajian won her sixth shot put title with a distance of 28’3”. Madenlian and Detroit’s Haigan Tcholakian took the other medals. Haigan came back to beat Sarajian in the discus throwing 69’2” and Claudia Boyajian finished third.

The women’s relays were all hotly contested events. Philadelphia won the 4×100 relay in 58.7 and held off a hard charging Anoush Krafian. Krafian overtook New Jersey to grab second for the Nejdehs. A well-balanced Detroit quartet won the 4×200 relay in 2:08.6. Once again Krafian came back from a huge deficit to out lean Philly for second place. The host chapter then won the final 4×200 coed relay in 1:53.8, just ahead of three time champion Greater Boston and New Jersey.

Author information

Bob Tutunjian

Bob Tutunjian is President of Vivaproducts, a medical device company in Massachusetts. He has been actively involved with the AYF and the Olympics since 1967 and has written many articles covering this event.

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WATERTOWN, MA – Students at at St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School recently celebrated Armenian Cultural Day with songs and poems in what turned out to be a delightful series of performances for doting parents.

Ruth Thomasian, founder and president of Project Save, started Thursday’s event with an interactive presentation about Armenian Photo Archives for the graduating class.

Then all the students gathered in the gymnasium, where the fifth graders lead an informative presentation about the different regions of Armenia (Marz).

The celebration continued with the performance of the K-5 chorale groups; then the first through fifth graders took the stage to present literary and musical works from Armenian poets and composers.

After two months in school, the children have already learned so much about Armenia’s important traditions and cultural contributions.

Author information

St. Stephen's Armenian Elementary School

St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School, founded in 1985 in Watertown, Massachusetts, is a small private school focused on providing the Armenian community of the Greater Boston area a place where children can learn Armenian language and history, alongside core curriculum subjects taught in English. For more information on any of their programs, the school can be reached at (617) 926-6979 or by email at school@ssaes.org.

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“….I could never give back enough for what I gained from AYF…” That’s what Mike Shamlian said after he was chosen Olympic king along with his longtime close friend Rich Keshgegian. “It is truly special.”

Shamlian was a member of the Philadelphia Papken Suni Junior Chapter from the mid-1980s and continued through the late-1990s as a Senior member of the Philadelphia Sebouh Chapter. He consistently participated in AYF Olympics over the years as a member, specifically in the javelin and shot put events, medaling in Boston (1989) and Chicago (1991).

Shamlian was a dominant player on the Philadelphia AYF basketball team. He and Keshgegian were the major reason for all those Papken Suni championships.

Shamlian has also served on numerous Philadelphia Olympic Committees over the years. He was chairman of the 1995 Transportation committee; co-chair of the 2002 and 2010 Concessions committee, and chair of this year’s Concessions committee. He’s the consummate volunteer especially at St. Gregory’s Church, where he served on the Board of Directors from 1998-2003. Shamlian was also a member of the AYF Camp Haiastan Board of Directors from 2008-2014, and he continues to contribute to Camp Haiastan as member of the Building Committee. Today, Shamlian is still involved in his chapter, working to ensure the youth develop the same love and respect for the AYF. He’s married to the former Karine Alemian (Washington, D.C AYF); they met at Camp Haiastan, like so many other camp romances and marriages. They have two sons, Haig Kevork (13) and Nishan Krikor (11).  

“Rich Kesh” has been an active member of the Philly Juniors and has served in countless roles in the Papken Suni seniors. A consistent Olympic participant in throwing and relay events, he, like Shamlian, was a key player on the Papken Suni basketball teams, consistent off the boards.

“This is special,” he said, “to be associated with previous Olympic kings, known Olympic standouts. It is especially great to share this with Mike, my boyhood AYF brother,” said Keshgegian.

Keshgegian was 1995 olympic co-chair with Glenn Papazian and served in multiple capacities for the 2002 and 2010 Olympics.

Right now, Keshgegian is serving on the Governing Body. He and his wife Dori (Avedesian, Detroit AYF) met at Junior Seminar. They have four spirited, lifetime AYFers: Avi, 27; Karine, 26; Aram, 22; Anto, 21. Papazian recalls that Keshgegian’s parents were also king and queen back in the day. “Quite a testimony to his parents and to Rich for keeping family tradition burning strong with his AYF spirit and community engagement,” said Papazian.

Author information

Harry Derderian

Harry Derderian is a native of Indian Orchard, Mass and resident of Farmington Hills, Mich. He is a member of the Marketing faculty at Eastern Michigan University as well as adjunct professor of marketing at University of Michigan-Dearborn and adjunct Professor of Business at Schoolcraft Community College.

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Late last month, over 40 AYFers gathered at Camp Haiastan in Franklin, Massachusetts for a weekend of lectures, discussions and ընկերութիւն (comradery). The theme for this year’s Senior Seminar was Վերածնունդ (Rebirth).

When members arrived, they each received a pair of socks made in Armenia adorned with the AYF-YOARF logo. Unger Greg Bedian, Ungerouhi Yeghisapet Chouldjian, Ungerouhi Heather Krafian, Ungerouhi Tereza Yeremian and Unger Steve Mesrobian were scheduled to lecture about the role of the Armenian language in our communities, Armenian women, the ARS, and Hai Tahd. These topics were discussed at length by participants, both during the organized discussion led by Unger Josh Tevekelian and informally during breaks and at meals.

One of the important takeaways from these discussions – which have continued beyond the weekend – includes the need for the AYF to take a greater role in encouraging members to utilize Armenian and offer resources to learn Armenian. Many of our members come from communities without the infrastructure to teach Armenian; members examined ways to expand our usage of Armenian while also ensuring that nobody feel excluded.

There were also intense discussions regarding the need to fight for women’s rights – especially for women in Armenia and Javakhk – as well as increasing our political activities in both the U.S and Armenia towards our goal of a free, united, and independent Armenia.

Following dinner, the AYF alumni, who had served as cooks for the weekend, changed hats (but not literally) to become musicians; AYFers and lecturers alike had a wonderful time dancing and singing along. Afterwards, there was a campfire complete with s’mores and հեղափոխական (revolutionary) songs that went on late into the night.

The next morning, after a delicious breakfast of foul, members participated in a leadership workshop organized by the CE, which included a talk by Unger Dikran Kaligian and further discussions regarding transparency and accountability in the AYF. Finally, members cleaned the camp and made their way home.

The CEC would like to thank everyone who helped make the weekend so engaging and productive, including the lecturers, cooks/musicians and participants!

-Shahe Papissian

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Guest Contributor

Guest contributions to the Armenian Weekly are informative articles written and submitted by members of the community, which make up our community bulletin board.

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At just 20 years old, Garo Bazarbachian has already made a name for himself. His Armenian last name, truncated to one syllable, is also his self-made brand. Pronounced BĂZ with a short a (not BÂZ, as its native pronunciation would suggest), Bazarbachian says he hopes his new line of clothing apparel will be worn by Armenians and non-Armenians alike.

“You can see BAZ worn by an Armenian kid like me, or a random American kid might find it [the different language] on the shirt cool,” said Bazarbachian.

Bazarbachian designed his first ‘season’ on a vinyl printer back when he was a senior at Winchester High School in the spring of 2017. It was a black tee-shirt featuring the name of his brand in white Armenian letters (Պազ) against a lightning scene.

Now, over a year later, Bazarbachian can call himself a small business owner. He just “dropped” his fifth season, which honors Gyumri with The Heritage hoodie. Bazarbachian’s mom was born in Gyumri; he connected that piece of his mom’s story with his own by creating an online lookbook and video campaign in Watertown, a neighborhood that played a large role in his upbringing.

Bazarbachian grew up in the local Armenian community much like many of his friends. He attended St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School and St. Stephen’s Saturday School; he’s also part of the Homenetmen of Greater Boston scout troop. He says that’s where he picked up most of his leadership skills, which he feels are important in running a business. “I try to be involved in everything. I see myself as Armenian, as we all should.”

Bazarbachian is inspired by his Armenian heritage and says that he wants to make it even more relevant to his consumers, who are largely part of the local Armenian Diaspora. Past seasons have included wearable tributes to Armenia’s historically brave military leader Vartan Mamigonian (The Warrior tee). In his fourth season, Bazarbachian’s orange and red tee-shirt line depicted an old white BMW with tinted windows, trimmed with the colors of the Armenian flag. Above the image are coordinates to Sako Auto Body, his father’s repair shop in Medford, Mass. “When I told my friends about it, they just went crazy.”

Sako Auto Body is where you can find Bazarbachian managing the books on any given Friday. But his top priority is six-miles away at Suffolk University, where he is pursuing a finance degree and minoring in entrepreneurship and business law.

Bazarbachian said he has also been inspired by his father during this journey. “It’s definitely about owning something,” said Bazarbachian, whose father immigrated to America from Lebanon with essentially nothing and set up shop in a two-car garage. “There’s always that one guy who is better than you,” he said recalling some of his father’s advice. “You always need to keep working, keep going. Even though you may not catch up to him, at least you’re on that path.”

Bazarbachian says he is looking forward to releasing more seasons of BAZ Clothing as well as hopefully collaborating with other Armenian brands. You can follow Bazarbachian’s journey online and on Instagram @bazclothing.

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Leeza Arakelian

Leeza Arakelian is the assistant editor for the Armenian Weekly. She is a formally trained broadcast news writer and a graduate of UCLA and Emerson College. Leeza has written and produced for local and network television news including Boston 25 and Al Jazeera America.

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LEXINGTON, Mass.—After years of failed attempts, several young members of the Armenian community finally delivered an important message to Turkish Consul General Ceylan Özen Erişen. Erişen had been invited to the Cary Memorial Library in Lexington, Massachusetts on Monday evening for the opening of its Turkish collection of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.

Moments before Erişen’s scheduled remarks, 21-year-old Meghri Dervartanian of the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) approached her at the podium and introduced herself as an Armenian. In a video posted on the AYF Greater Boston “Nejdeh” Chapter’s Facebook page, Erişen seemed surprised by Dervartanian’s heritage. “Oh, you look Turkish,” she said. She barely looked at the letter before discreetly folding it up. “Whether or not the Turkish Consul General Ceylan Özen Erişen chooses to read the letter that was handed to her, we made it clear that although 103 years have passed, we will continue to fight against injustice at any cost,” Dervartanian told the Weekly.

She and others in the Armenian youth group have tried numerous times to get this letter into the hands of the Turkish Consul, but to no avail. Over the years, different variations of this letter have been refused by a number of Turkish Consul Generals in Boston, especially during annual demonstrations hosted by the Greater Boston Armenian community outside the Turkish Consulate building on St. James Avenue every year on April 24—Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day.

In part, the letter objects to the Turkish government’s attempt to “import the suppression of free speech and repression of human rights.” The local Armenian Diaspora is also demanding an end to the Turkish government’s multi-million dollar propaganda campaign and a firm acknowledgment of the historical accuracy of the Armenian Genocide including the return of stolen Armenian lands.

But in her remarks, Erişen made clear that the evening was designed to celebrate Turkey. “This is about the Turkish community contributing in a very positive way to the society in which it’s living,” she said about the addition of over 100 Turkish titles in the Lexington library’s growing World Language Collection, as reported by the Weekly’s Karine Vann. “We will make the world a better place to live in. Our doors are open.”

Related: New Turkish Collection Launched in Lexington Library

“Since this is a Turkish collection,” said Jennifer Webb, Bibliographic Services Manager for Cary Memorial Library, “there are a lot of potentially sensitive issues that could come up. I’m sure over time we are going to need to provide books to add more balance and more viewpoints…different versions of history that reflect the community’s values.”

But for Armenians, there is only one, indisputable version of history. That version includes the mass killings and forced deportation of 1.5 million Armenians at the hands of the Ottoman Empire back in 1915. The absence of a formal international recognition of that historical event, the relentless denial by the current administration under Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the presence of these young Armenian demonstrators distributing flyers contributed to a palpable tension in the room. As she cut the red ribbon to mark the opening of the Turkish Collection, Consul General Erişen quietly said, “Protect me from the negative energy.”

But Dervartanian and her group of AYF-ers say they were not looking for any type of confrontation. Ani Khachatourian told the Weekly she has no qualms about the readily available collection of Turkish books. “That’s good for them,” she said. Khachatourian and her friends say they just saw a long-awaited opportunity to come face-to-face with a representative of the Republic of Turkey, and they used that opportunity to send a message. That is to acknowledge the “abundantly documented historical record of the Armenian Genocide and make reparations and restitution to the Armenian people.”

At a table displaying Turkish goods and photographs of Turkey’s landscapes, a Turkish gentleman asked Saro Sakaian and Nina Vosbigian nearby, “Do you guys want to come visit? Have you seen a more beautiful country?” To which Sakaian replied, “Yeah, it used to be Armenia.” The man then uttered an expletive and sought the attention of law enforcement nearby. In another instance, that same Turkish man went toe to toe with Varant Chiloyan and took a video of him holding a flyer with side-by-side images of Adolf Hitler and Talaat Pasha. The man referred to a ‘beautiful Turkish library,’ and off-camera, you can hear Dervartanian say, “Excuse me, this is not a Turkish library. This is all our library.” 

“Our work is nowhere near done,” said Dervartanian to the Weekly. “This is just the beginning.”

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Leeza Arakelian

Leeza Arakelian is the assistant editor for the Armenian Weekly. She is a formally trained broadcast news writer and a graduate of UCLA and Emerson College. Leeza has written and produced for local and network television news including Boston 25 and Al Jazeera America.

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As both a former AYF-YOARF Intern and Director, I can say without hesitation that the internship program is one of the best things an Armenian can experience. I had been to Armenia four times prior to being an intern in 2017, and I did not think my fifth summer there would be much different. However, at the end of that summer, I realized that the Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) Internship program offers much more than just two months in Armenia. This program gives a real, firsthand experience into the daily life of the place we should be calling home.

Here are my top five reasons why you should consider the AYF Internship in Armenia this summer.

1. It is an unparalleled introduction to our motherland.

If you have not been to Armenia yet, then there is no excuse not to do the internship. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the tears streaming down the faces of my fellow interns when they saw Mount Ararat for the first time in person. Also, being around other interns and directors who have been in the country before will help your immersion into the lifestyle, the language, and above all the rich and important history.

2. You will further advance your career by gaining international work experience.

I recently graduated college in May of 2018, and I can honestly say I wouldn’t have my current job if it weren’t for the AYF Internship. Your work placement is tailored to you based on what you want to gain from your internship experience. During the interview stages, my internship separated me from the competition. Potential employers respected and admired my relevant international experience in my field of study. Also, there is a variety of internship opportunities available, which will allow you to work at multiple placements throughout the summer, if desired.

3. You will explore Armenia during unmatched weekend excursions.

Having gone on the excursions as both intern and director, I can tell you that the AYF Internship offers the most extensive excursion schedule. As an intern, not only will you see Echmiadzin and Sardarabad, but you will also spend time with your fellow AYF ungers in both Yerevan and Artsakh. You will climb the tallest mountain in Armenia, Mount Aragats, and you’ll get back down to ground level in time to celebrate the ancient holiday tradition of Vartivar with the children in the streets. These personal interactions with the locals in Armenia is what sets the AYF Internship apart from other programs.

4. You will take part in a hallmark period for our nation.

Given the recent Velvet Revolution and the extreme optimism throughout the country, I envy those who will spend their next summer on the Internship. The hope that Armenia is headed in the right direction is more palpable than ever. Although there’s been a considerable amount of change within the past year, the effects of these changes will be ever present by the summer of 2019. The history of our second independence may only go back 28 years, but you will witness developments that will impact the nation for many years to come.

5. It will show you Armenia for what it truly is: a country with opportunity and growth.

This is by far the most important takeaway from the AYF Internship. More and more internship alumni are repatriating to Armenia. As a Diasporan Armenian, you will better understand how you can contribute in developing and improving this already beautiful country. The AYF Internship ignites a rare flame—one that serves as the guiding light to bring young Armenian leaders back home.

To apply to the AYF Internship in Armenia, please click here. The application deadline is January 17, 2019.
For more information, please click here.
Email any questions to internship@ayf.org

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Nareg Mkrtschjan

Nareg Mkrtschjan is an AYF-YOARF member from the Providence "Varantian" Chapter. He has been very active throughout his AYF-YOARF career, participating as an AYF Intern in 2017 and Director in 2018.

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