By Tavit Hardy
Chicago “Ararat” Chapter

Throughout history, people have pushed themselves to the extreme. Whether training for a school team or the AYF Olympics, the smallest thing can make the biggest difference. Many races have been lost in the final few seconds because the leader thought they had won and slowed down only to be passed over at the last second. There is a reason all famous athletes achieve greatness. I believe the answer is in two words – HARD WORK. 

Hard work, in my opinion, is the reason survival has been achieved, scientific discoveries have been made, and records have been annihilated. By knowing if someone will give it 100 percent or not, it separates the people with potential from those who will not improve as drastically. In the book The Power of One, the main character, Peekay, dreams to be the welterweight champion of the world. He tries to become it by giving it all he has with himself as his motivator. The only person who can truly motivate you is YOU. 

In sports, education and the workplace, a strong work ethic is an important part of building the foundation for the endurance it takes to have a successful future. 

Olympics is a great example of working hard for yourself – and the good of the whole. Sure, walking instead of running when your chapter coach asks for laps isn’t a crime, but Olympics is a test of achieving personal bests and goals and strengthening teamwork. The only way to become prosperous in general – in life – is through hard work.

In AYF, it’s all about the team and helping your team capture points and earn the right to greatness. The key to becoming successful in life is through hard work. Even if I feel that I can’t keep going, I just tell myself to do just one more, and with that, I can power through the pain and feel proud of my hard work.

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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By Gasia Oknayan
AYF Detroit “Kopernik Tandourijian” Chapter

As the 69th anniversary of Camp Haiastan inches upon us, it is imperative for today’s staff and camp community to look back upon the roots of the jampar we adore. This summer, I am blessed with the opportunity to spend my time at Camp Haiastan among my friends, coming together to perpetuate the same cause of our predecessors since camp was built nearly seven decades ago. I recently participated in a presentation by Baron Harry Kushigian and Unger Peter Alemian, who were accompanied by Baron Pete Jelalian and camp board chairperson Michael Guzelian. They spoke to our 2019 summer staff on their experiences at Camp Haiastan and how their experience translates into advice for the summer upon us. 

Baron Harry is a legend. He began by screening through the list of staff names, stopping at familiar surnames to make connections with grandparents, families and communities. While this may seem minuscule, this mere gesture emphasized the massive connections that are created throughout the history of AYF and Camp Haiastan. After making countless connections and creating lots of beaming smiles, Baron Harry proceeded to recall the origins of Camp Haiastan and its roots in the AYF.

In July 1940, AYF members in search of a campsite for Armenian youth visited our soon-to-be camp in Franklin, Massachusetts, which was ultimately purchased on August 12, 1940. With that undeveloped land, the AYF members built Camp Haiastan from the ground up over the next nearly two decades until Camp’s opening day in 1957. When WWII began, operations halted as AYF members left to serve in the Armed Forces. Camp construction resumed in 1946 after the end of WWII in 1945. AYF members would volunteer in their free time to cultivate the base of camp today.

As Baron Harry continued to reminisce on his time spent here, I couldn’t help but think about how the physicality of Camp Haiastan has changed so immensely in its past seven decades of existence, but the meaning of it and nature of people’s love for camp has not changed at all. The same feeling I see take over Baron Harry when he speaks of Camp Haiastan is the same rush of emotions that I feel when I talk about the times I’ve had here. As Baron Harry said, the common denominator of this camp over the past nearly 70 years is the hokee; the spirit of this place never changes and continues to enrich the lives of Armenian youth. In his closing remarks, he included a piece of advice for our staff. He told us to be careful with the campers. Being their caretakers is an immense responsibility, and it is upon us to do the best we can to prioritize their safety while also cultivating the children’s Armenian identity, which transcends into fueling our community. 

Following Baron Harry’s wise words, Unger Peter Alemian, another former Camp Haiastan staff member and camper, spoke to us about his experiences, emphasizing the value of the people at Camp Haiastan. He preached to us that the valuable pieces of Camp Haiastan are those intangibles that surpass what meets the eye; the epicenter and value of camp is held in the people who have spent their summers in adolescence and childhood running and playing on these magical grounds. Building upon this, Baron Peter emphasized our importance as counselors and how we need to utilize this great responsibility to encourage our campers in the right way, being positive role models. Recalling on his own camp experience, Baron Peter highlighted the way in which Camp Haiastan can facilitate a more enriched experience as an Armenian-American. Coming to Camp Haiastan has the ability to open a window for children into the rich, beautiful world that we hold as Armenians. 

We, as camp counselors, have the power to magnify the Armenian identity in the people that make up its future, the children; our responsibility, as expressed by both Baron Harry and Unger Peter, is to do our best here to strengthen the positive role models in the community and encourage our campers to be their best in the Armenian community and outside of it. Camp Haiastan holds an undeniably magical essence that changes lives, mine included. As staff members, it is our duty to hold that spirit and ensure that it ameliorates the lives of these young people. Camp Haiastan may seem like a small, mellow summer camp along a quaint pond; but, Camp Haiastan has the potential to have an indescribable impact on the lives of Armenian youth. Yesterday, Camp Haiastan changed lives. Today, Camp Haiastan changes my life. Tomorrow, Camp Haiastan will enrich the lives of those who do not yet know what they are missing.

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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By Laura Boyajian

It feels as though I just stepped off the plane at Zvartnots yesterday, but we have somehow almost reached the halfway point in our internship! It is encouraging to see the changes that have been made to this country since I visited Armenia last year. While each trip to Armenia is special in its own way, this experience seems entirely different; rather than being a tourist, I feel right at home. I am starting to become much more acclimated to city life and can finally walk around without relying on Google maps. The language barrier can be frustrating at times, as I wish I could fully interact with locals. But I am grateful for the help I’ve received from my fellow interns and coworkers and am getting along quite well despite my lack of fluency.

I split my time among three organizations and have appreciated the opportunity to gain exposure to a variety of work environments. At Orran, a children’s center located just down the street from our house, I am a teacher’s assistant and English tutor. I also spend two days a week working with occupational therapists at the My Way Training and Rehabilitation Center, which is funded by the Autism National Fund. I’ve enjoyed sharing my love for music with the students by playing the piano and singing with them during their music therapy sessions. I’m also involved with the Women’s Resource Center of Armenia where I am developing various workshops for young women on topics surrounding female leadership and mental health advocacy. I have gained significant insight into the social and political climate of Armenia through my research and conversations with coworkers. Perhaps it is this immersive perspective of the country and its people that makes me feel so much more connected to the motherland on this trip.

In addition to the connections formulated through our internships, this past month has been filled with unparalleled experiences as we’ve toured around the country and taken in the culture. In the four weeks we’ve been here, our group has already participated in a sit-in protest against a proposed flat-tax, attended an Armenian wedding, visited countless monasteries and museums, learned Armenian dances and songs and much more. My favorite excursion so far has been visiting the Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery. Although I traveled there last year, I developed a newfound appreciation for both churches as we explored the gorgeous landscape around the sites. We took a mile hike to the Symphony of Stones at Garni Canyon and were met with breathtaking views of the “Basalt Organ Pipes” rock formation. These rocks seem to defy gravity as they hang 50 meters above the ground. We did lose our way on our hike, but it was well worth the adventure. Thankfully, we were met with a familiar face who kindly offered to drive us back up to the temple. At Geghard Monastery, we cooled off at the holy water spring. We also explored an area behind the monastery where people can make a wish by tying colored bands to the trees; we embraced the scenery as we ate delicious khorovadz at the restaurant.

In the coming weeks, we will be traveling to Camp Javakhk, exploring Artsakh and camping near Lake Sevan. I love the location and warmth of our home and am learning to embrace life here in as many ways possible, even if it means being pushed outside of my comfort zone. My experience in our homeland has been incredible thus far and has provided me with countless new perspectives. I have never felt more proud of my Armenian identity and couldn’t imagine spending my time here with any other program or group of people!

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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A Series of Interviews by Karoon Krikorian
Chicago “Ararat” Junior Chapter

What is your favorite memory of Junior Olympics?

“My favorite memory is running the torch in the ceremony.” (Nadya Mahdasian, Racine)

“My favorite memory from Junior Olympics is definitely when I got my first medal last year in Detroit. I got second place for baseball throw.” (Alek Banklian, Chicago)

“My favorite memory of Junior Olympics was 1987 when Chicago won for the first time that I can remember in Detroit.” (U. Hagop Soulakian, Chicago)

What does this weekend mean to you?

“This weekend was an opportunity to reconnect with multiple people in different areas, and it gave me the opportunity to show my more athletic side to the Armenian community.” (Taleen Tchobanian-Boman, Detroit)

“This event means a great gathering of other chapters coming together, having fun, running track and making friends.” (Alek Banklian, Chicago)

“This weekend means a lot of things because it just shows that there’s a lot of good Armenian communities all around who help create a family outside of our hometown.” (Shant Demirjian, Chicago)

“It’s seeing old friends, meeting new friends, and passing on what our parents gave us, to our kids. It’s fantastic!” (Hagop Soulakian, Chicago)

“To me it means it brings together our youth and communities, builds comradery and friendships for many years…keeps the culture alive along with a lot of fun.” (Coach Hagop Ohanian, Chicago)

What is your favorite part of the Olympics and why?

“I loved seeing different people getting covered in money while trying to dance.” (Taleen Tchobanian-Boman, Detroit)

“My favorite part of Olympics is definitely just getting to see everybody and running track because I never really get to run track outside of this, so it’s fun especially since we do it with other chapters.” (Alek Banklian, Chicago)

“It’s about preserving your Armenian identity and community and being able to talk with friends that you’ve known five, six years plus.” (Shant Demirjian, Chicago)

“I love the competition. That’s what I loved when I competed, and that’s what I love now. But, the whole weekend is fun, after the competition everybody goes and gets with their friends and goes to the pool, so I love it all!” (Hagop Soulakian, Chicago)

“Being there for our brothers and sisters.” (Coach Hagop Ohanian, Chicago)

What’s your favorite part of the Olympics so far?

“The comradery of all the people getting together and making new friends from other chapters.” (Hovig Vartanian, Chicago)

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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From July 4 through July 7, the Homenetmen New York chapter hosted the 29th annual Homenetmen Eastern United States Navasartian Games in Long Island, New York. Over 400 athletes from 10 chapters from across the Eastern United States came together to participate in a variety of sports including  basketball, soccer, volleyball, track, chess and swimming events.

The opening ceremonies, which were emceed by Nazareth Abajian, commenced with the entrance of His Eminence Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy, and honored guests, escorted by Homenetmen scouts from different chapters in the region. Athletes and coaches marched into the gymnasium and showcased the teams participating in this year’s games. There were welcoming remarks by Chairman of Homenetmen New York Eddie Torossian and Homenetmen Eastern USA Region Chairman Aram Kayserian. Homenetmen Central Executive representative Hratch Mesrobian emphasized that at the end of the weekend, the ultimate winner is Homenetmen. Finally, Srpazan Anoushavan expressed his wishes for a safe and successful tournament for all participating athletes and to Homenetmen as a whole.

During the opening ceremony, there was a moment of silence to remember and honor Archpriest Moushegh Der Kaloustian—former pastor of St. Illuminator’s Armenian Cathedral and staunch supporter of Homenetmen within the New York community—and Hamo Sardarbegians of Homenetmen’s Washington chapter, who devoted his life to Homenetmen as a coach, leader, mentor and recruiter of young Armenian athletes to the organization. In Sardarbegians’ honor, the Regional Executive announced that the men’s volleyball trophy will bear his name for the next five years.

The Navasartian Games steering committee organized nightly entertainment throughout the weekend. Friday evening featured performances by Sarina Cross and her band. The weekend ended with the “Victory Gala” on Saturday evening with Montreal’s Sako Tashjian performing on-stage. Trophies and awards were also distributed to the victorious teams in each sporting category. Closing remarks were delivered by Kayserian and Mesrobian. His Excellency Ambassador Mher Margaryan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the United Nations, also offered his sincere wishes for success of the Homenetmen Navasartian Games. Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern USA Central Committee representative Khajag Megerdichian gave an empowering speech on the importance of Homenetmen and how far we have come to date. Hayr Sahag Yemishian, Prelate Vicar General of the Eastern Prelacy, gave his holy message and blessed the dinner & attendees.

The successful weekend was made possible by the tireless efforts of the Navasartian Steering Committee, led by Karekin Shamlian and the New York chapter executive. Next year’s Navarsartian Games will be held in Boston, Mass.

Official Results:

PW Soccer
Champion: New York
Runner-up: New York

Midget Soccer
Champion: Chicago
Runner-up: New York

Sr Men’s Soccer
Champion: New Jersey
Runner-up: Washington DC

Sr Women’s Volleyball
Champion: Chicago
Runner-up: New York

Sr Men’s Volleyball (Y. Hamo Sardarbegians Trophy)
Champion: Providence/Merrimack Valley
Runner-up: Washington DC

PW Basketball
Champion: New York
Runner-up: New York

Midget Girls Basketball
Champion: New York
Runner-up: New York  

Midget Boys Basketball
Champion: Chicago
Runner-up: New York

Jr Boys Basketball
Champion: New York
Runner-up: New Jersey

Sr Women’s Basketball
Champion: New York
Runner-up: Philadelphia

Sr Men’s Basketball (Y. Mark Alashaian Trophy)

Champion: Chicago B
Runner-up: New Jersey A

 Veteran Basketball
Champion: New York A
Runner-up: New York B

Track
Champion: New York
Runner-up: Boston

Swimming
Champion: Washington DC
Runner-up: New Jersey

Under 18 Chess Tournament
Champion: Washington DC (Simon Soghomonian)
Runner-up: New York (Andre Tavitian)

18 & Over Chess Tournament:
Champion: Washington DC (Haig Pakhchanian)
Runner-up: New Jersey (Vahn Mouradian)

Final Totals
1st Place – New York (89 points)
2nd Place – Chicago (40 points)
3rd Place – Washington, DC (35 points)
4th Place – New Jersey (29 points)
5th Place – Boston (13 points)
6th Place –  Philadelphia (5 points)
7th Place – Providence (3 points)
Merrimack Valley, Florida and Albany (0 points)

Most Improved Chapter Award
New Jersey

Sportsmanship Award (Y. Aram “Sonny” Gavoor Trophy)
Philadelphia

Author information

Homenetmen Eastern U.S.

The Armenian General Athletic Union and Scouts, known as "Homenetmen," is a non-profit organization founded over 100 years ago. Believing in the idea that strong bodies lead to strong minds, Homenetmen has provided Armenian youth across the globe with a moral, physical and psychological education outside the school environment, while also demonstrating richness of the Armenian culture and heritage, while at the same time. Today, Homenetmen is a worldwide organization with over 25,000 members on five continents. On the East Coast U.S., Homenetmen is a thriving organization with 12 chapters and over 900 members, governed by the Homenetmen Eastern Regional Executive.

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Camp Haiastan has been the meeting grounds for countless marriages, lifelong friendships and memories. Looking back, never in a million years did I think camp would pave my path to becoming an entrepreneur.

Upon my return from camp in 2010, I resumed back to normal high school life. However, there was nothing normal about my high school experience. When all of my friends were going to proms, sporting events and college visits, I was going to doctors, specialists and hospitals.  As my high school years progressed, my health regressed. I missed over 250 days of school. My memory was waning. I was unable to walk and unable to be out of bed for more than 30 minutes a day. My speech was slurred, and the entire right side of my body became paralyzed. My debilitating health meant I could not go anywhere without a mobile aid; I was far from a normal life. 

I went to over 20 doctors, all of whom misdiagnosed me with Multiple Sclerosis, Celiac Disease, Leukemia, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Depression. However, after three years, I was finally correctly diagnosed with Lyme Disease, an infection caused by a tick bite, which typically presents a bullseye rash. By the time I was diagnosed, I was left with a permanent disability. 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Chronic Lyme disease. So when all of my friends went off to college, I stayed back to seek treatment. My friends updated me about their classes, internships and social lives, but I had nothing in common with them anymore as my life was put on hold. Since I was going to iv treatments on a weekly basis, I had to drop out of college. I was lonely and misunderstood. 

Disheartened but determined, I set out to change the status quo. After a hard fought battle, I was able to reach remission where I started to rebuild my life. I went to Northern Virginia Community College and then transferred to the University of Virginia. It was during this time I was bit by a different bug—the entrepreneurial bug. 

I read an article about the lack of innovation happening in the disability and chronic illness space, and an idea struck.

What was the worst part about my illness? Loneliness. None of my friends could understand this life-changing illness. And since many patients in these treatment centers were twice my age, I was unable to relate to anyone on a personal level. I wanted to know how Lyme was going to impact me long term, from work to having a family. But no one in my immediate circle could provide the answers I needed. 

That’s when Riley was born. Riley is a social network for people with disabilities and medical conditions. Patients and caretakers can meet each other on a one-on-one basis through a mobile application. People undergoing the same battles can build a profile with information about their condition, passions and interests. The social media platform will then curate unique matches that would allow you to meet people going through the same journey. 

It was named in memory of a 13 year old I met while volunteering in the pediatric department of a Washington, DC hospital. Riley passed away while waiting for her turn on a transplant list. She always dreamed of becoming a Hollywood star. 

At our core, we are on a mission to empower. Our community supports each other by making connections and sharing our stories. 

This fall, Riley is launching the app for people Lyme Disease, Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Depression and Anxiety. With a growing membership list, Riley also has a robust international ambassador program with influencers reaching 500,000 people across five continents. Riley’s team of changemakers is based out of the University of Virginia this summer, but the company will be moving closer to Washington, DC this fall.

Author information

Elizabeth Tikoyan

Elizabeth Tikoyan is a social entrepreneur innovating in the disability and chronic illness space. She is the founder of Riley, a social network for the disabled, the ill and their caretakers that works to facilitate one-to-one connections between individuals with similar illnesses. She has also worked closely with medical professionals at the National Institutes of Health and volunteered in the pediatric department at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital.

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Labor Day weekend would be incomplete without a fan favorite: the seamless sounds of the legendary Onnik Dinkjian. Onnik and an All Star lineup will be performing at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare on September 1, 2019 during the AYF Olympics.

We cannot fathom an Olympic Sunday dance without this great group of multi-generational family men who have brought tradition to life. They are siblings: blood relatives, uncles, fathers, grandfathers and brothers through music.  The following is Amo’s interview with Onnik about the upcoming long weekend festivities. 

Amo: What do you feel like when you perform on stage specifically during AYF Olympics?  

Onnik Dinkjian: I feel very proud to witness the enthusiasm of all those young people dancing in unison, with their eyes glowing and their faces smiling. I have been cherishing these visions at the AYF Olympics for 73 years, starting in 1946 at Hartford. 

Amo: What are your thoughts on the future of Armenian musicians? 

Onnik Dinkjian: They’re here. I see that it is going to continue. I’m happy to say that the contributions we old timers made to our Armenian American culture will not be in vain. The future looks very promising with some young, talented musicians, including oud, clarinet, dumbeg, keyboard and guitar players, as well as singers. 

Amo: Please give us some words of inspiration, directed specifically to the youth of today.

Onnik Dinkjian: Be proud of your heritage. Be proud to be Armenian. Keep that feeling alive amongst yourselves. 

Amo: What do you marvel at today’s Armenian youth? 

Onnik Dinkjian: I marvel at the youth’s enthusiasm and dedication to being Armenian. They seem to have understood and appreciated the value of their identity,   given to them by their ancestors through so much sacrifice. There was a time I feared we would be the last generation of Armenians, but I see now that it will continue. I hope it will never end.

Amo: What is your favorite Armenian song you sing and why?

Onnik Dinkjian: There are so many Armenian songs that touch our hearts. It’s hard to choose one. However, I would say that Dele Yaman reminds us of our entire history, of all the generations, of our land, of our culture. Indeed, when I sing it, even at the AYF Olympics, I’m proud to say that the youth stop and listen to the words, and seem to understand the depth of its message. Also, for pure happiness, I enjoy singing Hoy Nazan (also known as Shooshig Mooshig), which I am proud to have composed.  

Amo: What is your favorite Armenian singer from the past and why? 

I love Hovaness Badalian and especially Roupen Matevosian. Their interpretations of Armenian songs are absolutely unique and have touched me deeply. 

Amo: Tell us a little bit about the members of the All-Stars… 

Hachig Kazarian – a fantastic, educated musician who developed an Armenian clarinet style which has influenced virtually every Armenian who has played the clarinet since. 

Raffi Massoyan – one of the young musicians with whom I have been proud to share the stage. He has been making a name for himself as an extremely talented multi-instrumentalist. 

Steve Vosbikian, Jr. – another talented young musician, coming from a legendary musical family, he’s a wonderful entertainer. 

Ara Dinkjian – He is the complete Armenian musician, and my son. 

Jim Kzirian – Jim’s presence on-stage makes everyone hankeest (comfortable), and his dumbeg playing (and singing) never fail to gel the musicians together.​

Michael Kazarian – Also coming from a musical family (Hachig’s son), is one of this new generation of Armenian musicians who make me so proud. 

Please join us “in the middle” – Chicago – for the Olympics Dance Sunday night to witness another spirited performance by Onnik Dinkjian. 

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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FRANKLIN, Mass.—Camp Haiastan celebrated another milestone in its celebrated history on Sunday.

Three buildings underwent significant transformations during the off season in preparation for the 2019 camping season. After completing the new shower bathroom building two years ago thanks to the generosity of Dikran and Maro Megeurditchian, the old shower building and the old bathrooms sat idly. Never to rest on his laurels, Executive Director David Hamparian began to fundraise and solidify plans to renovate and repurpose these buildings. With the assistance of the newly-formed infrastructure committee, it was decided to make one building a new arts and crafts facility and the other a staff lounge combined with a new laundry facility.

Previous benefactors Nancy Guzelian and Arthur Bedrosian agreed to fund the projects donating $100,000 and $64,000 respectively. The new laundry expanded capacity to 10 new high efficiency washers and dryers. The staff lounge is separated from the laundry by a locking door allowing parents to do laundry on Sundays. The staff lounge allows space for the staff to rest, have late night snacks or chat with family and friends in a private atmosphere—a great improvement over the couch in the back of the mess hall. Both facilities have been heavily utilized this summer adding value to the staff, camper and parent experience.

The “upper shed” was formerly the bathroom building utilized by families renting the summer cabins surrounding the conference room at the top of the hill near the entrance. The facility had most recently been used to house the camp’s utility vehicles and building materials. In danger of collapsing, Anita Babikian was contacted and asked what we needed. No stranger to significant donations to Camp Haiastan, she agreed to save the building with her generosity.

The building was fortified; desperate for additional storage space for camp records, the attic was supported to double as a secure storage area avoiding the expense of a new building. Babikian was impressed with the camp’s creativity and resourcefulness and agreed to add to her donation to complete the renovation.

At the ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, accompanied by six members of the clergy, blessed the buildings during the ceremony conducted by former Board of Directors member and master of ceremonies Michael Bahtiarian. His powerful prayers and inspiring words set the tone for the day.

Board of Directors Chairman Michael Guzelian spoke to the history of aunt Nancy Guzelian’s lifelong commitment to Camp Haiastan and many other Armenian organizations. The building was dedicated to her mother Makrouhi Guzelian. The Guzelian family has been among the camp’s staunchest supporters in all facets for three generations.

Longtime Board of Directors member and current treasurer Steve Mesrobian spoke on behalf of the ARF and the impact of these donations.

Outgoing Armenian Relief Society (ARS) representative MaryAnne Bonjuklian reflected on the strong relationship with Camp Haiastan and the organization’s current pledge to make the Armenian school program stronger by adding air conditioning to the stifling hot Fermanian Recreation Hall where classes and lectures are held. This upgrade is scheduled to be completed before the start of the 2020 camping season.

Arthur Bedrosian told the entertaining story of how he had not enjoyed his camper experience but recognized the powerful impact Camp Haiastan has had on his cousin Rita Simonian and the Simonian, Bahtiarian and Bedrosian families. His donation was made in her honor. She in turn dedicated the building to Genocide survivor Hayganush Bahtiarian.

Outgoing Executive Director David Hamparian reflected on all the assistance he has received over the years, identifying the day’s true heroes, Nancy Guzelian, Arthur Bedrosian and Anita Babikian. He challenged all those in attendance to value all the friendships made, all the obstacles overcome, all lessons learned and to be respectful to each other. He asked the campers and staff in attendance to strive to be the people we were honoring today, that maybe someday we will be honoring their commitment to Camp Haiastan.

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David Hamparian

David Hamparian is the Executive Director of AYF Camp Haiastan.

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They say, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” I have to admit that’s true. For the past five years, I have visited Armenia at least once every year for various reasons. This summer, I decided to pursue my education here in Boston, which consequently meant that I would not be able to travel to Armenia. It was a hard decision, but everyday is just one day closer to landing at Zvartnots. 

I miss my friends. I miss Camp Javakhk. I miss AYF Youth Corps. I miss the village life. I miss sitting on top of Cascade until the crack of dawn, singing at the top of my lungs, ordering homemade bottles of wine from someone’s neighbor’s brother’s uncle’s cousin’s son. I even miss waking up sweating in 100 degree heat at the mercy of a broken air conditioner. I miss waking up and grabbing that bottle of Byuregh I put in the fridge at 4:00 A.M. before going to sleep. I miss sitting at Meghedy cafe in Opera and watching my beautiful country change for the better, right before my eyes. How I long for those days…

What I miss most of all is my people, the streets, the sights, the drives. I can still smell the mixture of cigarettes and perfume while walking down Abovyan Street. I can picture the children, our future leaders, running around freely, many of them working hard to earn money for their families. I hear their giggles, too. I even feel the bumpy ride to Artsakh. That feeling of finally getting to Stepanakert’s Hrabarag. I hear the Zontikner waterfall. I can imagine the feeling of contentedness at Saro’s House – the one with no address, barely a road to get to, but everyone knows Saro’s House. We’re in Shushi after all… if only. The never-ending genatses, the khorovadz, the pig fat and potatoes. Those nights really make you appreciate being who we are. Armenians, through and through. Our traditions are really unlike anyone else’s. Our language, our history, our culture, our songs, … I wouldn’t even know where to begin. 

And those Yerevan nights. We don’t appreciate walking down streets enough. I realize this now. I love that feeling of walking with no destination. That happens a lot in Yerevan. It’s not really about where you’re going. It’s about appreciating where you are in that moment. It’s overwhelming, really.

I see posts on social media and envy people for all of the fun they are having. All of the incredible food they’re eating. I recently told a friend who is in Armenia now, ‘I don’t wish this feeling upon anyone.’ It’s like a pit in your stomach sort of feeling. The type of feeling you get as a kid when you don’t get your favorite colored popsicle, but someone else does. Maybe that was just me. The work we do here in the diaspora keeps us going and reminds us of what we have there. Regardless, it’s still difficult being so far away from a place where you feel so at home. A place where you can truly call home. I think this summer without Hayastan made me realize that I… WE…can never take her for granted. I know I’m not the only one with all of these feelings, with all of this longing and love for her. What I know to be even more true, is that our country will thrive so long as we take care of her, love her and fight for her forever.

Author information

Ani Khachatourian

Ani Khachatourian is a member of the Armenian Youth Federation – Youth Organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (AYF-YOARF) Greater Boston “Nejdeh” chapter. She is an Emerson College graduate student, and she works in Special Education.

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Who are the Three Armigos in the Midwest and what do they do? Are they Armenians in sombreros? Is this some type of typo, “amigos”? No. Dave Mahdasian, Raffi Mahdasian and Armen Saryan are the forefathers of the podcast The Three Armigos, which was all but an idea a few years ago. Our roving Chicago AYF Olympics mascot The Chicago Amo sat down to interview them.

Amo: How did it start up?

Armen Saryan: Doing a podcast was Dave’s and Raffi’s baby. We wanted to do something like this for a long time as a hobby. So as the universe would have it, Dave ran into Armen about podcasting, how it can be done, and started talking about all these things, funny ideas, and said, ‘Let’s do this.’ We did a dry run, trying to figure how to do this and since I work at a radio station, the quality was super easy, we had the equipment, and things rolled into place.

Raffi Mahdasian: Launched two years ago, most of their podcasts are about our Racine church, living in Racine, being Armenian, being in AYF, and we did a few podcasts on AYF too. We like to tell stories. People like to listen to them, even from different countries! We discuss the funny anecdotes about our famous Racine Madagh picnic, our experiences, the AYF seminar bus and so much about our childhood that revolves around AYF.

Amo: What experiences do you talk about?

Dave Mahdasian: We are telling non-Armenians about these odd stories, how we are under 18 years old and going to Olympics and Seminars in PA and NY, they look at you like you’re crazy. But our parents always let us go, and we felt like a little communal group in AYF that the odars never understood. We bring the unique Little Armenia experiences to the radio waves.

Raffi Mahdasian: One of our greatest connections to the outside world is with those American friends who have for years before the podcasts, heard all the stories of our crazy Armenian adventures, and now are hearing them again as adults on-air. They enjoy hearing about it too, and say, “Oh, I remember when you came back from that event,” or “Yea you told me that years ago!” 

Amo: What is one of your best Armigo experiences?

Armen Saryan: Hands down, one of the most fun experiences for us was the Milwaukee AYF Olympics a few years ago. It was really exciting. There we had the idea to do the play by play at the softball tournament. And moving up in the world, we can’t wait to be helping MC the track and field events at the Chicago Olympics this year.  

Amo: What will you do at Olympics?

Raffi Mahdasian: At the track at Chicago Olympics track Sunday, Sept 1, we will be up in the Press Box and are going to put a new and fresh spin on “announcing” and keeping things interesting during the down-time, making it an even more fun day!  So come hear and see the Three Armigos at the AYF Olympics this Labor Day weekend.

Every month, this animated trio boasts an impressive 1,000 listeners as far as Brussels and Tokyo. Amo says “Abrees” for coming so far to promote the silly, funny, adventurous piece of being Armenian in the Midwest. Meet Us In The Middle – of the AYF Olympics track! 

To check out the Three Armigos Podcast, check out their Facebook page—Three Armigos Podcast. 

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AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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Amo recently sat down with Kristen Seidl whose mom Pamela Mardoian Seidl is a die-hard alumna of the Racine AYF Chapter. Kristen is an all-around basketball champion, and we are thrilled she will be attending AYF Olympics in Chicago! Kristen shares her thoughts on growing up Armenian, her basketball journey and advice on the sport for athletes participating in the first ever AYF Olympics basketball three-on-three to be held at the Chicago AYF Olympics on Friday, August 29.

Chicago Amo: What was it like growing up in your hometown of Kenosha?  How did you preserve your Armenian heritage? 

Kristen Seidl: Growing up in Kenosha was great. Most of my immediate and extended family lived close by, and we would always get together for big Armenian holidays and events. The lakefront was and still is my favorite part about Kenosha. My grandparents on my mom’s side were both full-blooded Armenians, and my grandma was a die-hard Armenian cook. She always had a freezer full of lamajoon, mante, sarma, dolma, boreg, stuffed peppers and lots of fattening baked goods. Anytime I would visit, she would have a pot of fresh rice pilaf on the stove waiting for me, because she knew it was my favorite. When you would walk into her house, it just smelled Armenian. She definitely helped preserve my Armenian-ism by teaching me to cook, speaking the language, playing the music and teaching me how to dance. 

Chicago Amo: Tell us a little about your basketball history.

Kristen Seidl: I played basketball for 18 years of my life. I started playing when I was about five years old and my dad (who also played college basketball) was my first coach. I developed a passion for it in grade school, playing on school teams, recreational leagues, and attending many, many basketball camps in my youth; I even had a personal trainer who coached at the professional level. I played varsity my sophomore through senior year at a division one high school. When I was 14, I decided I wanted to play at the collegiate level and knew I had to work even harder to get there, so I began playing competitively year-round. 

I played for a competitive AAU traveling team for four years during the off-season, and we played 60 to 70 games every spring and summer in tournaments locally and nationally, even Hawaii. Our team spent two weeks in Maui in a world tournament with some of the most talented players I’ve ever competed against. We took third place. That same summer, I also traveled by myself to Australia and New Zealand to play internationally. I was one of two players who represented Wisconsin. Our US team took second place in that tournament. I then went on to pursue my dream and played college ball for four years and traveled all over the Midwest, ending my career strong at the age of 22. 

Chicago Amo: What position did you play? 

Kristen Seidl: I played forward and center in my earlier years and in high school; when I got to college, I played shooting guard and sometimes forward. I was fairly versatile due to my height and experience. 

Chicago Amo: What advice do you have for our basketball players or overall any athlete? 

Kristen Seidl: If you love something and you have a passion for it, pursue it and commit to it with all your heart. You will never regret the things you’ve done—only the things you didn’t do. I knew early on that I loved the game of basketball, which made all the hard work, sacrifice, struggle, pain and victories taste so much sweeter. You can then look back on your career (as I can today) and have no regrets. 

Chicago Amo: What advice do you have for any Armenians, anything you can add to help promote being Armenian? 

Kristen Seidl: Being Armenian is special and unique, so embrace your heritage. I feel like every Armenian I meet is like family. You just “get” each other: the culture, the history, the language, the dancing, the food, the look. It’s a special kind of bond that only Armenians would understand. 

Chicago Amo: What is at your core and your biggest accomplishment outside of sports? 

Kristen Seidl: My core, my purpose, my passionate pursuit, is my faith. Life is tough. And it’s a whole lot tougher without God. I’ve lived my life on both sides of the fence, with hope and without hope. I could never imagine living without hope again. My biggest accomplishment has not happened yet. For me, it will be when I reach heaven and hear, “Well done.” 

Chicago Amo: Who is your hero? 

Kristen Seidl: My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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By Sahak Zakarian, Internship Director, Chicago “Ararat” Chapter Alumnus

A two hour drive south of Stepanakert off the beaten path sits a village at the end of the world—the end of the Armenian world, as it seems. Past the great mountains of Artsakh, near the Arax river and border of Iran is Arajamugh—a village of approximately 150 inhabitants. Surrounded by barren hills, dried up riverbeds and countless pockets of abandoned Azeri homes, you will find a newly built oasis among the ruins of the Artsakh War. 

Like a patrol tower on the frontline, this entire village stands guard for Artsakh’s southern border. Take a walk through their village school, and you get the sense that this is where heroes are born and bred. Walls lined with war-time safety posters, drawings of tanks and flags and pictures of war heroes from life and myth remind you that the enemy is not far from where these people work, eat, sleep and raise their children. At the head of this crowd of past and future heroes stands an impressive heroine—the village mayor, Digin Shushan. 

The average Armenian villager may be perplexed to find a group of young diasporans on their doorstep on a hot August day in a place seemingly in the middle of nowhere, offering to do some yard work. Digin Shushan knew why we were there. She knew our motivation and understood we were there to contribute with our sweat and not our wallets. She was kind and reserved, yet her eyes could not hide her excitement. Our presence, although expected, had shattered the isolation of this place. It was a strange feeling, being so far from home, yet so close to where you belong. The thousands of miles we traveled, the long unpaved road from Hadrut, the vast differences in our lives began to diminish with each moment we spent here.

Digin Shushan guided our group of young interns to their newly-built town hall building and adjacent clinic. As she gave us a tour of this new place, she was describing it with such familiarity to us, as if it were our own home. One of our interns noticed a room with a plaque sponsored by the priest from his church at home in New York. This faraway place was inching closer to our reality. As the conversation grew and she began to learn about each of us and where we were from, she started to list the names of people we knew from our respective chapters and about how they had visited or contributed to Arajamugh. By the time we began to work, it was all so familiar that we felt as though we were working at our agoumps back home.

The mayor’s son brought us a few shovels and a rake, and we began to clean the area surrounding the town hall. We cleared weeds and debris, raked the field, paved and watered the freshly planted pomegranate saplings. Our presence even attracted some of the village kids, who began to trickle in with their own tools in hand to contribute to the improvement of their community space. 

After a few hours we had finished the work and headed over to the recently completed soccer field to unwind and spend time with our young helpers. It was there we were met with yet another familiar face; however, this one was from another time and another place. Above the entrance to the field in one foot letters was written: Maral Melkonian Field. Next to the entrance, etched in stone was her image. In that moment, time, space, past and present collided and the familiarity of Ungerouhi Maral’s sweet smile transported us to a time when she was teaching our AYF and Homenetmen kids about Artsakh, the war, and quite possibly this very place. 

Although she is no longer physically with us, there she stood, like the immovable force she was in our communities back home, now like a fortress on our frontline. It was an emotional revelation, one we needed to capture and save. So we stood to take a picture with two heroines, one past, one present: Ungerouhi Maral and Digin Shushan. In that moment it all made sense; despite being so far removed from our usual context, we were exactly where we’re meant to be. 

Arajamugh is a village in southern Artsakh that was founded in 2004 by the efforts of the Tufenkian Foundation and has since been expanded by the Artsakh Fund of the Armenian Cultural Association of America Eastern USA. So far, they have built 26 homes, a school, town hall office, an athletic field and clinic. There are plans to continually expand the village and its population. The AYF Eastern Region USA has contributed financially to this effort, as well as through community service projects with AYF Interns for the past three years. To support this project, you can donate to the Artsakh Fund Eastern USA.

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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It is Thursday of AYF Olympics Weekend. It is one of the days many of us look forward to every year. It is the annual gathering of families and friends…of AYFers. It is the beginning of a celebration of our wonderful way of being Armenian, to beam with pride watching our young people compete in various sports, to dance long into the night to wonderful Armenian music, and to catch-up with folks we haven’t seen for a year. It is the day people start arriving at the AYF Olympics, this year in Chicago.

The amazing committee has been at work for over a year planning, preparing, coordinating, and then planning, preparing and coordinating some more. They are ready. We are ready. The great city of Chicago, an attraction in itself, is always ready. The weather is lovely, the hotel—the Hyatt Regency O’Hare—is phenomenal and practically sold out, coaches are working with their teams on last minute guidance and strategy, musicians working out set lists and tuning up, and lots of people are packing and preparing to travel… tebi Chicago.

This, the 86th Annual Olympics of the Armenian Youth Federation, promises to be something special.  The committee’s “Meet Us in the Middle” and the appeal of Chicago itself have attracted record breaking attendance from the West Coast. This will make for a new, different, interesting mix of people where we get to meet and make new friends and reacquaint ourselves with old friends that we haven’t seen for too long. As for me, I will be meeting a cousin of mine from Australia for the first time. 

Who will win the Olympics? Certainly, the powerhouses of Boston, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Detroit and Providence will be here vying for the Olympic Trophy. But, the west coast athletes will be a force to reckon with as well. The games start on Friday with tennis, golf, swimming, and, for the first time, three-on-three basketball. All the venues are close to the hotel. Go and watch some tennis, watch the golfers tee off, enjoy some basketball, and, of course, the swimming is always packed with cheering family and friends.

Saturday will be all about softball, the popularity of which has grown tremendously in the past several years. While there are no Olympic points granted for this competition, the competition is nonetheless vigorous with the teams playing for and fans rooting for pride. It is a full day of co-ed softball, it is a picnic with food and music, it is about hanging out with, well, everyone. It is the most casual fun time of the weekend and an Olympic experience not to be missed.

Needless to say, the Sunday track and field games is the root of where the Olympics started 86 years ago in Brockton. It is where the athletes march, the kings and queens of AYF Olympic glory are honored once again as they welcome this year’s inductees to that very special status. It is where the kiddie race warms our hearts as future AYF members and athletes run their first race. And, most certainly, it is where the most points can be won during the whole weekend. The stands will be packed and athletes will be ready to go.  

While athletics are the central reason for AYF Olympic games, the weekend is equally about music, dancing and socializing. The organizing committee led by the very talented Ari Killian has put a star-studded program together. Armen Papazian is so good at bringing in the West Coast talent and filling the halls with adoring fans. I have dubbed him Chicago’s Impresario. We begin the festivities tonight with the very funny and insightful Vahe Berberian at Zanies, within walking distance of the Hyatt O’Hare, who will have us rolling in the aisles as he reveals the humorous side of being Armenian.  

On Friday night, there are two dances! There will be the Alumni Dance featuring Chicago’s own Hye Vibes with guest stars Ara Topouzian and Ara Dinkjian. Come and savor Armenian delicacies, dance to the traditional Armenian music that has always been part of the AYF Olympics, and be there when they announce this year’s Olympic King and Queen and Varadian Spirit Award recipient.

The second dance on Friday is the AYF Gala – A Little Hayastan with Tigran Asatryan. Tigran is an amazing singer and entertainer backed up by a fabulous band. I am especially excited as I get to see and meet Suren Mehrabyan, the gifted oud, tar and guitar player, for the first time. Dance to the Hye Vibes at the Alumni Dance and then go and dance into the wee hours to Tigran and his band. Where else can you find this kind of line-up on the same night? Chicago, of course.

The music doesn’t only happen in the evenings. The Mideast Beat, another local traditional band, will provide the sound and dance track at the softball game on Saturday. Listen, dance and watch softball… what a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon in Chicago.

The Saturday Night Dance? It is none other than the iconic Harout Pamboukjian. Harout has becoming a staple of the AYF Olympics in this century. He always attracts a huge crowd of adoring fans, and he always rocks the joint. Go to softball, go have a great dinner, and then by all means get to the Rosemont Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency of O’Hare for Harout!

The Olympic Ball takes place on Sunday night. It is where all the Olympic trophies are presented, the high scorers are awarded, and the winning chapter of the Olympics is named. It where the chapter dances happen. And it is where Onnik Dinkjian and Hachig Kazarian will lead a band of AYF All Stars that includes Raffi Masoyan, Ara Dinkjian, Steve Vosbikian, Jim Kizirian and Michael Kazarian. What a cap to weekend of spectacular entertainment!

Want to know where all of this takes place? It is all happening this weekend in Chicago! More specifically, the welcome book is online for the first time in AYF Olympic history. It provides the times, locations and addresses for each and every event. 

Chicago:  Meet us in the middle… indeed.

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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My name is Mark Gavoor, and I coordinate the reporting of the AYF Olympics for the Armenian Weekly. I take lots of photos along with Sona Gevorkian and Tamar Kanarian. During Olympics weekend, I write daily articles recapping each day. After the weekend, I write about a third of the articles for the Weekly’s AYF Olympic Special Issue. Bob Tutunjian and Harry Derderian write the rest. Together the five of us are carrying the torch passed to us by the late and most venerable Tom Vartabedian who, by the way, used to do all of this himself. Yes, it took five of us to replace him… and we still feel we fall short.

One of the articles I like to write is one that is both of general observations of the weekend and a kind of a social who’s who at the Olympics. It is modeled after Angel Perethian’s “Angel Over Olympics” articles that were so popular in the 1970s and 80s. Tom Vartabedian would always tell me that when people got the Olympic issue of the Armenian Weekly, they would seek out and read Angel’s column first. It is my honor carry her tradition forward.

It is so easy to write about my family and friends. I spend most of the Olympics weekend with them after all. I want to meet people I do not already know so that this article is not just about people close to me.  

If you are attending the 86th Annual AYF Olympics in Chicago, I want to meet you, learn what the AYF means to you, and take a photo of you, you and your friends, or your family. You will see me, camera and notepad in hand at the various athletic events, around the hotel, and at the evening dances. Stop me, introduce yourself, and tell me your story. I will try to work the vignettes and photos into my daily articles or the larger AYF Olympics Special Issue.

Even if I know you and you have a story or memory you want to share, tell me about it.

Looking forward to speaking with all of you.

Meet me in the Middle:  See you in Chicago!

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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PROVIDENCE, RI—The Providence Varantian AYF Chapter held its annual pep rally with a packed room full of current AYF juniors, seniors and alumni. Thursday’s event started with a meal provided by the chapter for its guests. During the meal the chapter presented a PowerPoint slideshow presentation, showcasing the athletes going to Olympics on Labor Day weekend.

Nineteen athletes from the chapter are attending, three of which are first time juniors; all are participating in three events. After the presentation, current members and alumni members spoke on the current state of the chapter and shared some past Olympic memories. The chapter’s participation has been growing over the past three years. Momentum is moving in the right direction for this chapter. 

With aims of keeping Providence proud, the chapter will head to Chicago this weekend to try their best, be respectful and have fun.

Author information

AYF-YOARF

Founded in 1933, The Armenian Youth Federation is an international, non-profit, youth organization of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF). The AYF-YOARF Eastern United States stands on five pillars that guide its central activities and initiatives: Educational, Hai Tahd, Social, Athletic and Cultural. The AYF also promotes a fraternal attitude of respect for ideas and individuals amongst its membership. Unity and cooperation are essential traits that allow members of the organization to work together to realize the AYF’s objectives.

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The AYF Olympics have begun. People started to arrive today from all over the US. Some just want to add another day to their Olympics in Chicago experience. More so, most of those checking in today are here for the Friday athletic events. Tennis, golf and basketball all begin at 9 in the morning. Swimming is in the late afternoon.

The first folks I met were the Baldwins from Detroit: Taleen, CJ, Stella and Sona. We both pulled in at the same time. It was a pleasure to meet Taleen’s family. Next was a trip to the Chicago Welcome Desk that was well organized and staffed by Chicago ladies.  

We grabbed a quick bite to eat and headed over to the comedy club Zanies for the inimitable Vahe Berberian. There were 150 fans in attendance, and Vahe had us all laughing from the moment he took the stage through his entire show. He has a wonderful knack for observing and making light of human nature with a most definite Armenian slant. Kudos to the committee for engaging Vahe to kick-off the entertainment for the AYF Olympic Weekend.  

After Vahe’s show, I met Hatchig Kantzabedian and Minas Kaftajian from Dallas. It was their first time at the AYF Olympics, and they were delighted to be in the great city of Chicago. They told me they always take a Labor Day trip with their wives. The marketing buzz for the Olympics in Chicago on social media and in the Armenian press helped them to make the AYF Olympics in Chicago their destination for this year.  

Upon returning to the hotel, my mother in-law, Mary Mardoian, ran into sisters Sato Sanikian and Haygo Ohanesian from Fresno. They had moved from Beirut to Waukegan back in the 1970s. For the two years they lived there and Kenosha, WI, they sang in the St. Paul choir with Mary and fondly remembered her exquisite voice and guidance she provided as their choir director. They have been in Fresno for 43 years. They were delighted to be in Chicago and reconnect with old friends like Mary.

I heard that there were 17 men signed up to play tennis. That has to be a record. I saw a strapping fellow with a tennis racket in his backpack.  He said he was from New Jersey. While he looked it, he told me he never played any organized tennis. When he told me his name, George Noury, I commented that he looked familiar and asked if he owned a café. He said yes! It turns out we are friends on Facebook where he does a lot of marketing for his restaurant, Nouri Cafe. I told him his marketing was good, and I will visit his Armenian-Syrian restaurant the next time I’m in New Jersey. I would encourage everyone else to check it out and support this young entrepreneur!

The AYF Olympics swings into full action tomorrow with tennis, golf and three-on-three basketball. The ever-popular swimming takes place in the early evening. Come on out and support our young athletes! The entertainment? There are two dances: the Alumni Dance featuring Chicago’s own Hye Vibes with special guest Ara Dinkjian and Ara Topouzian and the AYF Gala – A Little Hayastan with Tigran Asatryan. It should be a fabulous day!

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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It was an awesome Friday at the AYF Olympics jam-packed with athletic and social events. The day began with golf, tennis and basketball, which all began at 9 in the morning. Swimming began in the early evening. The evening was capped off with two dances: the Alumni Dance and the AYF Gala with Tigran Asatryan.

Planning and coordinating all of these activities, which includes shuttling athletes and spectators alike to the various venues, is no mean task. The Chicago organizing committee has done a wonderful job thus far. One thing they have done that no one else has done in my memory was to have the golf, tennis and basketball within three miles of each other in Mt. Prospect, IL. People could easily go between the venues with ease. It was very cool. Mother Nature did her part and provided a simply gorgeous sunny day with temperatures in the mid-70s. It was a great first day for AYF Olympic sports!

I first hit the beautiful Old Orchard Country Club to watch the AYF and Alumni Golfers tee off. There were five men golfers including Mark Santerian (Philadelphia)—last year’s winner and clearly the man to beat this year. The rest of the competitors were the Providence brothers Shahan and Alexan Topalian, Joey Charchaflian of Greater Boston and Sam Manuelian of Worcester. There was a mix-up in registration for Norig Boyan (Greater Boston), so he couldn’t officially compete for a medal. But in great fraternal spirit, he was out there playing and supporting the others. Not surprisingly, Mark Santerian shot a blazing 72 and won the gold.

There were four women golfers who have played together for the past few years. Everyone was guaranteed to get a point. They included Shayna McCarthy and Theresa Jelalian from New Jersey, Ani Comela of Providence and Araxi Krafian from Boston. The results were not available at the time of this reporting, but Shayna McCarthy was looking very strong.

There was a large number of alumni golfers as usual but no women alumni this year. Mike Manoogian won the trophy which was presented at the Alumni Dance.

The next stop was the tennis courts. There were five women participating Chanetelle Nasri (Manhattan), Anahis Kechejian (Greater Boston), Olivia Barberian (North Andover) and Katia and Lina Ariyan (New Jersey).  Kenar Charchaflian (Worcester), who usually plays, was there supporting and cheering on her tennis friends but will be doing the Pentathlon this year. AYF tennis stalwarts Lina and Katia squared off in the finals with Katia besting her sister. Olivia took the bronze, and Anahis came in fourth.

There were 17 men registered to play tennis. Fourteen showed up and competed including Hagop Taraksian (Providence), a crowd favorite, who was looking to win his fifth AYF tennis title. He ended up in an exciting finals match against Shahan Derbedrosian of Glendale. The games were excellent with long rallies. In the end, Shahan bested Hagop in two sets and took the gold. Michael Armen Kadian (Detroit) took third, and Garo Tashian (Providence) took fourth. It was a great day for AYF tennis.

This year, a new sport was introduced:  three-on-three basketball. There were six teams, three of which were from California. This format of basketball is half court, fast paced and fun to watch. One point is awarded for a normal basket, and two are given for a basket from beyond the three-point line. There is no time clock and no free throws. The first team to 15 wins, and you have to win by two. I was able to catch the semi-finals and final games, and it was truly exciting. New Jersey squared off against a Los Angeles team. It was a hard-fought game with Los Angeles finally prevailing in the equivalent of three on three triple overtime. You can watch a video of the last half of that game on Facebook.

This reporter was unable to attend the swimming competition. Look for a report on the swimming in tomorrow’s article.

The Alumni Dance was next on the agenda. The tradition is to have the local community provide a lavish display of Armenian delicacies. The Chicago ladies did just that. The offerings were varied and amazing. The Hye Vibes with guest stars Ara Dinkjian and Ara Topouzian provided the music. The meal delayed the start of the dancing, but once the Khaligians from Racine got up to dance, the dance floor was full and stayed that way for the remainder of the evening. It was old school AYF Armenian music and dance and, as they say, the joint was rocking. It was estimated that 400 were in attendance, and everyone had a fabulous time.

One of the traditions is to name the Olympic Kings, Queens and the Varadian Spirit Award winners at the Alumni Dance. The choices this year were:

• Kings: Raffi Killian and Jeff Hagopian
• Queen: Karine Birazian Shnorhokian
• Varadian Spirit Award Winners: Mayreni Soulakian and Greg Bedian

Talk about rocking the joint, that is exactly what Tigran Asatryan did at the AYF Gala. The dance floor was full and appreciative of Tigran’s vocal stylings. Between the Gala and the Alumni Dance, both styles of Armenian party music were provided and enjoyed by one and all.

There was one quote during the day that sticks out. At the tennis court, Rubina Boyrazian, the athletic trainer in charge of first aid for the event, said, “There are three letters key to finding an Armenian spouse:  A-Y-F.” Well said, Rubina!

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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The post Friday at the Chicago AYF Olympics appeared first on The Armenian Weekly.

When I first started attending the AYF Olympics, Saturday was the least active day of the Olympics. Sure, there were track preliminaries and a dance, which was lightly attended, but overall, it was a free time for folks to explore the host city.

That is no longer the case. Saturday is for softball now. This year, it was also javelin day. Javelin day? More on that later. Harout Pamboukjian would also be performing. In recent years, Saturday at the AYF Olympics is a fantastic day.

Softball has transformed the AYF Olympics Saturday. Co-ed chapter teams play for two reasons: bragging rights and simply brilliant fun. The AYFers have a great time playing. All of their family and friends show up to watch and enjoy the games and cheer them on. It is simultaneously a picnic with the food we love. And sometimes, as this year, there is a band. People came and spent the whole day watching softball, eating, socializing, dancing and having an overall memorable AYF time.

The weather was again in the mid-70s. It was partly sunny and the perfect day for a softball tournament and an Armenian style picnic. The fields were a few miles from the hotel (no one has had closer venues to the hotel than this year in Chicago). During the games, the MidEast beat, another local band, provided a beautiful soundtrack of traditional Armenian music. Great weather, softball, kebab, music and dancing…what more did we need?

There were 10 chapter teams participating, one of which was a mixed team so that anyone who wanted to could participate. There were 10 total games played in this single elimination tournament. Detroit has been a powerhouse in the past several years. They were in the finals last year losing to Los Angeles. They had won the tournament the few years before that. They had a bye in the first round and played Providence in the second round. Let’s call it a rebuilding year as a good Providence team beat them 21-14. In the next round, Providence lost to New Jersey, who bested Chicago in their first game, 14-6. This got Jersey into the finals.  On the other side of the bracket, Los Angeles, the defending champions, beat Manhattan and Boston, putting up some big numbers along the way to reach the finals.

It was New Jersey versus Los Angeles. Everyone was excited for this final between two powerhouse teams. This, however, was a Los Angeles day. Their defense was very good and their batting…they put on a show. Eddie Hovannisian blasted two massive homers over the 15-foot fence in left field to lead the way. Everyone hit and played well.  They jumped out to a huge lead over Jersey. It looked like there might be an early departure due to the mercy rule in the version of softball played here. But, really, we are talking about New Jersey. They are tough and scrappy and not about to go out that way. They made a gritty run, but in the end still lost to a very good Los Angeles team.

After the game, they shook hands, hugged and took a group photo of both teams celebrating the competition and the fraternal spirit of the AYF. This is why softball has completely transformed Saturdays at the AYF Olympics into something special.

While the Softball tournament was in the semi-finals, a group of athletes left the softball to go to Notre Dame High School for the javelin competition. This field event is normally held on Sundays at the track and field competition. In Illinois, javelin is not a high school sport due to the liabilities involved in throwing, well, spears. Javelin is not allowed at the track and field venue. Governing Body member Daron Topouzian worked very hard with the Chicago committee to find a venue for this long-standing field event. They found Notre Dame High School and, as has been the norm for this Chicago Olympics, it was three miles away from the softball fields. The competition was exciting to watch with both seasoned competitors and others who were throwing the javelin for the first time ever in this competition. That mix of experience and talent is a hallmark of the AYF Olympics where participation and fraternal spirit are as important as winning. The final results were not available for this article but will be in the Armenian Weekly AYF Olympic Special Issue that will come out later in September.

Next on the agenda? Harout. He did not disappoint. He never disappoints. Harout is full of energy as is his band. That energy transfers to the crowd full of his adoring fans who filled the dance floor… all night long. Harout was all over the stage. He was on the dance floor dancing and singing amid all the attendees. Even Vahe Berberian was there enjoying the energy! Harout is now a regular at the AYF Olympics and is part of the long tradition of this 86 year-old event that is so special to us all.

It was a great Saturday at the 86^th Annual AYF Olympics. Looking forward to the track and field and the Olympic Ball on Sunday!

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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The post Saturday at the Chicago AYF Olympics appeared first on The Armenian Weekly.

It was a super Sunday at the AYF Olympics that included the march of the athletes, the opening ceremonies, the track and field events and the Olympic Ball and trophy presentations. It was an action-packed day to say the least.

The track and field events took place at Triton College. The facilities were beautiful and, as with everything at this Olympics, close to the hotel. A special thanks to Garry Abezetian the AVP of Finance at Triton for making this awesome venue possible.

We did have rain this weekend, but it was late Saturday night and end at dawn on Sunday. While the grounds at the discus and shotput were a bit soaked, none of the events were impacted. The weather was again in the mid-seventies and the skies overcast. It was perfect for the athletes and the fans. The stands were fuller longer than at most recent Olympics where the temperatures were in the 90s. They stayed so long that ALL the concessions sold out. As an added feature, the Chicago Olympic Steering Committee had the Three Armigos, David Mahdasian, Raffi Mahdasian and Armen Saryan bring their unique Racine/Milwaukee humorous banter in announcing and commenting on the events.

The March of the Athletes was as stirring as ever. There were former Kings and Queens and Varadian Spirit Award winners marching with the athletes that numbered in the hundreds. Stephanie Killian was the emcee, and there were beautiful speeches by all who spoke including Aram Kaloostian of the ARF, Kenar Charchaflian AYF Central Executive and Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian who also led us in prayer and blessed the athletes. They all spoke of the heritage of the AYF and its grand tradition of not only helping keep young people Armenian, but also being unsurpassed in developing and nurturing future community leaders. The games themselves were entertaining and competitive. Athletes, families and friends were cheering for both their own chapter, certainly, but also everyone else.

Boston came into Sunday leading in the point totals with Philadelphia within striking distance; Detroit and New Jersey were not far behind. Those results did not change. Boston was strong in the track and field with two high scorers: Anoush Krafian and Shant Maroukhian. They never relinquished their lead and won the 86^th Annual AYF Olympics. Philadelphia was second, followed by Detroit, New Jersey and Providence. There were records broken. A significant one was the women’s 50 meter dash of 6.6 seconds set by Andrea Nranian of Detroit in 1979 and tied by Melanee Melkonian of Worcester in 2015. Melanie Sarafian of Detroit broke that record running an impressive race in 6.41 seconds. The other highlight of the day was the four Krafian sisters of Greater Boston running and winning the 4×100 relay. It is the first time four sisters ran a relay in AYF history. Four Sarajian brothers ran a relay some years ago but did not win. Araxie Krafian commented that it was most special to run this race with her sisters. “Being the oldest, I am glad to be able to continue in the AYF so this could happen. Hopefully, we can do it again,” she told me.

The day was only half over. Everyone returned to the hotel, had some dinner, freshened up and then went to the Olympic Ball. Hachig Kazarian, Steve Vosbikian, Raffi Massoyan, Ara Dinkjian, Jim Kzirian, Michael Kazarian and the great Onnik Dinkjian energized the ballroom with traditional Armenian music. The dance floor was full until the award presentations, and then it was mobbed. The presentation of the awards and trophies simply took the AYFers’ energy to a new level, and that lasted the rest of the night.

Here are a few of the trophies presented:

• The Ernest Nahigian Sportsmanship Trophy went to Daron Hamparian of Greater Boston.
• The Pentathlon winners were Aram Keshgegian of Philadelphia and Lori Ganjian of Greater Boston.
• Anoush Krafian broke the women’s long jump record.
• Detroit set a new record in the co-ed swim relay.
• The complete results will be in the Armenian Weekly AYF Olympic Special Issue coming out later this month.

As the weekend has ended, it is time to thank the 86^th Annual Olympics Steering Committee for a job very well done. It is a mammoth undertaking requiring over a year of planning to make an Olympics Weekend as successful as this.  Here are the executives of the Steering Committee:

• Ari Killian, Co-Chair
• Garin Bedian, Co-Chair
• Hagop Soulakian, Athletics
• Hovig Vartanian, Treasurer/Hye Pass
• Lena Surenian, Administration
• Renee Devedjian, Ad Book
• Ardem Hardy, Marketing/Sponsorship

The Ad Book was phenomenal! The Saturday picnic was a great success! The entertainment was nonpareil! The venues were top-notch and close! The transportation was easy and reliable! The Alumni Night Food was beyond compare! The Welcoming Desk was exactly that:  welcoming! The security at the hotel was very good! The Opening Ceremonies? The PR? The website? All excellent! Congratulations to one and all for hosting a phenomenal Olympics!

See everyone next year in Worcester. Bringing it back to where it all began!

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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The post Sunday at the Chicago AYF Olympics appeared first on The Armenian Weekly.

The day after the Olympics is always a… letdown. 

I start to write this article after Tamar Kanarian has a post-Olympics blues post on social media.  It is a ritual for her. My waiting for her post before I write has become a ritual for me. She has posted.  

Home. Laryngitis. Post-Olympics depression settling in. #AYFolympics

So, I am writing…

The Olympic Weekend is an intense three to four days of living the Armenian and AYF spirit. It is an annual gathering of the clans, literally. It is a time to catch-up with each other, renew friendships, meet new friends, watch the current AYF members compete and, of course, attend the dances. The weekend comes to an abrupt halt, and the realities of the non-Armenian parts of our lives quickly resurface. We all ask ourselves some variation of “What do I have to do before we return to work (or school) on Tuesday… ugh… I am so tired… and sad.”  

The whir, hum and pace of modern living does not allow us to wallow in our post-Olympics blues for very long. Just like last Wednesday at work seems like a million years ago to me right now, the Olympics will seem like a long time ago by this Wednesday. 

But, truth be told, Tamar and I will be living and reliving the Olympics for several more days. She will be culling down, editing, cropping and enhancing the thousand or so photos she took of the athletic events over the weekend. Sona Gevorkian and I will be doing the same with the thousand or so photos we each took. Along with Harry Derderian and Bob Tutunjian, I will start writing articles for the Armenian Weekly Special AYF Olympics Issue. We are not sure if this labor of love actually dissipates or prolongs the post-Olympics blues. 

Will we do it again next year? In Worcester? Most definitely.  

Thank you Chicago indeed.

Author information

Mark Gavoor

Mark Gavoor is Associate Professor of Operations Management in the School of Business and Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago. He is an avid blogger and oud player.

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The post The Bluesday After the Chicago AYF Olympics appeared first on The Armenian Weekly.