43 Years of Fun, Friendship, and Armenian Culture Continue During Summer 2007 at AGBU Camp Nubar

September 14 2007

On August 18, 2007, AGBU Camp Nubar wrapped up its 43rd season, providing another successful six weeks of fun, friendship, action-packed activities and Armenian culture in the scenic Hudson Valley. John Ohanian, the new director who was once a camper and counselor himself, was joined by a highly qualified staff who extended the amount of camper activities but kept many old camp traditions alive for 2007.

Camp Nubar's enrollment numbers soared this year with over 330 campers from France, Armenia, Canada, and seven US states. A one-week "trial session" was put in place to give first-year campers a small taste of what Nubar had to offer; many of these campers ended up extending their stay at least another week.

But camper numbers were not the only improvements in the off-season. A plethora of new sports equipment was purchased and an updated sewage system was rooted in place. A new, larger splinter-proof deck at the waterfront added aesthetic appeal to the already beautiful Lake Arax as well.

Campers Arraive

After a week of counselor training during "pre-camp," on July 7 the staff anxiously awaited their first-session campers. The first two weeks of camp included a counselor "Saturday Night Live"-like skit, Medieval and Hollywood-themed dances, a carnival event, Deal or No Deal camp-wide competition, and a casino night.

Many campers highlighted a competition between the boys' "hill" and the girls' "valley" as their favorite event of the session. The males and females went head to head for a day in teamwork activities, including sports, water games, arts and crafts, and eating competitions.

Because the carnival first session was such a success, second session kicked off with a similar event, including shaving cream games, a pie-eating contest, the "bounce house," slip and slide, and plenty of cotton candy, popcorn, and grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.

Second-session campers also enjoyed a beach party-themed dance at the lake where they had the chance to not only dance, but also boat and canoe the night away. Later in the session they put on their cowboy hats and boots for a traditional "hoe-down" dance with Western décor, which included barrels, hay, and horse saddles.

But the activity did not stop there. Second session also included the Open House celebration midway through the summer as present and past campers, counselors, family and friends gathered for a day of socializing, Armenian food, and a show put on by current camp-goers. In addition to a show at waterfront, which showcased swimming, diving, boating, water-skiing, and tubing skills to visitors, the campers and counselors performed a medley of various Broadway productions ("Chicago," "Grease" and the "Lion King") at the Nazarian Center.

Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern Diocese), was in attendance for the Open House festivities and later conducted the Badarak service overlooking the lake. His Eminence also stayed at camp for a "Christmas in July" evening activity that welcomed Santa Claus for a special summer gift-giving stopover.

Second-session participants also took a trip to the Baseball Hall of Fame in nearby Cooperstown, New York.

Color war kicks off

Third session is known for "Color War," a three-day competitive extravaganza including sports, team spirit, cheers, chariot races, Armenian language and dance, trivia, art, and music. As soon as the session kicked off, campers and counselors eagerly awaited the surprise beginning of Color War-a closely guarded secret that lent to the excitement of the activity, which split the entire camp into two teams, blue or gold, for three days of Color War.

This year, the Blue Anubis, led by generals Sarah Badach and Clark Sarkisian and captains Christina Lalama and Alex Distasi, beat the Golden Gladiators, led by generals Amy Ishkanian and Peter Endrigian, and captains Jackie Distasi and James Balakian. As soon as the competition was over, blue and gold immediately made green peace with a shaving cream fight and splash down by the waterfront.

Campers also eagerly collected candy wrappers to bid on their counselors during a fun-filled "Counselor Auction." They also enjoyed a talent show and a brand-new photography scavenger hunt during evening activity. For example, during the hunt, campers had to pose like a US Open star and take a picture with a digital camera; they were later graded on creativity and their ability to find exactly what the judges wanted.

Third-session campers also enjoyed a new "Buddy Day" where the oldest campers paired with the youngest campers to help them clean their cabins and organize their own belongings.

Camp traditionally ends with the banquet and candlelight celebration. This year's banquet theme was "Harry Potter," quite appropriate with the new book and movie dominating the media this summer. Candlelight is always the last Friday of the summer; campers and counselors write wishes on paper plates with candles attached to them and send them across the lake. It not only creates a beautiful scene as flames reflect on the water, but also gives people the time to reflect on yet another great summer. The rumor is that if your plate makes it to the other side of the lake, your wish will come true!

Each two-week period ended with a seamless changeover of new campers, but many general activities crossed over between all three sessions. Shish kebab, lulu kebab, and chicken kebab with pilaf and other traditional Armenian dishes for dinner were something to look forward to every Sunday night. In addition, there were weekly campfires, a daily running and swimming club in the morning, a basketball and tennis tournament, sports games with another local camp, certified horseback riding and archery instruction, and Armenian cooking, history and language lessons.

Another summer ends

Novel events this summer included a professional ventriloquist during the first and second sessions, weekly religious activities, including communion making, with visiting clergy, the chance to make scrapbooks in photography class, outdoor cooking, survival courses, fishing, and shelter building.

At the end of each session, campers went home with a camp newsletter, cabin photos, and a multi-media slideshow, but more importantly, the memories and friends they made in such a short time will last forever. Most have already begun counting down the days until Summer 2008 and the next time they will drive up that dirt road.

Founded in 1963,
AGBU Camp Nubar is a first-rate modern facility that has been highly ranked by the American Camp Association, American Red Cross, and American Academy of Pediatrics.
For more information about AGBU Camp Nubar,
email campnubar@agbu.org, or call 212-319-6383.

Camp Nubar Executive Visits the Diocesan Centre

November 24, 2006

On Friday November 24, 2006 Mr. Arshag Der Artinian, Executive Director of Camp Nubar visited the Diocesan Centre and met with His Eminence Bishop Bagrat Galstanian, Primate. Mr. Der Artinian gave detailed information about the history, background and mission of Camp Nubar. Accompanying Mr. Arshag Der Artinian was Mrs. Elisabeth Der Sarkissian.
Camp Nubar is sponsored by the Armenian General Benevolent Union, which was founded by Boghos Nubar in 1906. It is a non-political philanthropic organization whose purpose is to preserve and promote the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs.

AGBU's Membership is twenty-three thousand and it serves 500,000 people through its various programs. Camp Nubar is one of the programs established in 1963 to serve not only the Armenian youth, but many others who are enriched by the Armenian culture and traditions.
Serpazan Galstanian praised the role of AGBU in the life of each and every Armenian. His Eminence encouraged Mr. Der Artinian to reach out to the Community in order to have a greater representation from the Province of Quebec at Camp Nubar 2007.

30 Nov 2006 by Press Office

Camp Nubar’s 2006 Summer Session A Huge Success

On August 14, 2006, AGBU Camp Nubar wrapped up its 42nd summer season with 235 enthusiastic campers and 75 devoted counselors and administrators. AGBU's largest camp continues to lead the way in providing high quality facilities and an extensive list of activities for youth from around the world. Ranked by the American Camp Association (ACA), the American Red Cross and the American Academy of Pediatrics as a first-rate modern facility, Camp Nubar is unique among Armenian camps . Campers participated in a vast array of activities such as horseback riding, ceramics, tennis, archery, swimming, basketball and sailing. Alumni and guest instructors were invited to teach in specialized areas of interest such as water-ski-ing, wilderness survival and Armenian language and cooking. To keep pace with the growing demand for modern and spacious accommodations, Camp Nubar has undergone drastic renovation and expansion efforts in the last several years. This year alone, construction was completed on another Girl's Camper Cabin, a new Girl's Counselor Cabin, a major expansion to the Director's Cabin/Administration Building, the renovation of a former Camper Cabin into a Counselor Lounge, and the addition of an Alumni House for visiting staff members. Some highlights of the 2006 camp sessions included an Open House for family and friends, a carnival, a banquet, and the traditional 3-day event called "Color Wars" for campers. These highlights and the rest of Camp Nubar's activities help Armenian youth create valuable and long-last-ing relationships and memories. Accredited by ACA (www.aca-ny.org), AGBU Camp Nubarwas founded in 1963 and continues to be a summer haven for Armenian youth from all around the world. For more information on Camp Nubar, please call (212) 319-6383, visit www.campnubar.org or email campnubar@campnubar.org. For more information on AGBU and its youth programs, please visit www.agbu.org. Young girls concentrate during their horse-back riding lesson. Campers get ready to raise the Armenian and American flags in front of NazarianHall. Campers show off their finished products from Armenian cooking class.

Hundreds of family members pack Nazarian Hall to see a performance by campers duringOpen House on July 23rd. Camp Nubar's annual Open House is an opportunity for parentsand relatives to spend a day in the beautiful Catskill Mountains visiting campers and counselors, tour the campgrounds, and learn what makes Camp Nubar unique. The “Yellow Tribe” struggles to beat their competitors, the “Blue Tribe”, in the Tug-of-War contest. The "Blue Tribe" cheers enthusiastically as their mascot (wearing the cowboy hat and ban-danna) ensures that their spirits stay high during the “Color Wars” competition. Three campers enjoy tubing on Lake Arax. Water skiing, canoeing,kayaking and sailing in the Camp's brand-new sailboat, are some ofthe other exciting water activities offered at Camp Nubar.

Never Too Young for Camp Nubar - Inaugural Young Professionals Retreat Opens
Cabin Doors & Hearts to AGBU

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Andes, NY - Forty Armenians from greater New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and even Monaco, joined the AGBU Young Professionals of Greater New York (YPGNY) and YP Boston in kicking off their inaugural joint retreat at AGBU Camp Nubar from August 18-20, 2006. While making friends and memories in the scenic Catskill Mountains of upstate New York, YP campers enjoyed the summer weekend getaway complete with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, such as swimming, boating, tennis, yoga, basketball and hiking.

By uniting sister YP communities on the recently renovated grounds of Camp Nubar, guests were provided the unique opportunity to connect in a tranquil setting far away from hectic city life. "The AGBU YP Retreat to Camp Nubar was a wonderful experience, and gave the northeast chapters an opportunity to meet each other and enjoy the beauty of the Catskill Mountains," said Stephan Nigohosian of Ridgewood, NJ. "It also promoted a feeling of extended family among the campers, and strengthened the Armenian bond among the up-and-coming generation."

YPGNY (ypgny@agbuyp.org) and YP Boston (ypboston@gmail.com) are committed to upholding the mission of AGBU to preserve and promote the Armenian identity and heritage through educational, cultural and humanitarian programs. For more information on AGBU Young Professionals, please visit the Programs section of www.agbu.org.

Some of the 40 young professionals enjoying the first joint retreat organized by YPGNY and YP Boston at AGBU Camp Nubar over August 18th weekend.	YPs brave the great outdoors canoeing on Lake Arax over YPGNY and YP Boston's inaugural retreat weekend at AGBU Camp Nubar in the panoramic Catskills Mountains.

AGBU Camp Nubar – The Best Is Yet to Come

Saturday, November 12, 2005

With a very successful 2005 summer season behind them, the AGBU Camp Nubar Committee is already gearing up for the summer of 2006 with capital improvements that will make your head spin. With cabins, tennis courts and outdoor basketball courts recently renovated in 2003-2004, Camp Nubar is once again raising the bar to ensure its growing number of adult staff, guest instructors and campers have a state-of-the-art facility ...

read more...
AGBU Press Office: kyacoubian@agbu.org

Primate visits Camp Nubar

Thursday, August 4, 2005

ARCHBISHIP STOPS BY AGBU CAMP

The AGBU Camp Nubar Committee, Staff and Campers welcomed His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsmian to Camp Nubar on July 23 and 24. Srpazan arrived on Saturday afternoon and immediately immersed himself in the "Camp Nubar Spirit" by going to our beautiful Lake Arax and spending one on one time with the campers and counselors

After dinner His Eminence enjoyed Camp Nubar's annual celebration of 'Christmas in July'. The Nazarian Auditorium was adorned with a 20 foot decorated tree, lights, ornaments and happy faces. As part of the celebration, counselors presented a mini version of the Traditional holiday ballet, "TheNutcracker Suite" by Tchaikovsky. Following the performance, campers and counselors exchanged gifts that were made by hand at camp. Surpazan, too, received a lovely gift from the Camp Nubar family. After the children opened their gifts, Surpazan praised the staff and campers for their lovely celebration, saying that giving gifts is a wonderful way to make someone happy and that all the children were so excited to open their personal gift, made especially for them. He then said that he too received a lovely gift and would like to present each camper with a gift form Holy Etchmiadzin. The campers were thrilled to receive a hand made wooden cross necklace that had been blessed in Holy Etchmiadzin. And what Christmas celebration would be complete without homemade anoush abour and traditional Armenian sweets. It was a wonderful and very tasty evening!

On Sunday morning Srpazan celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Campers, counselors and visitors to Camp Nubar's annual Open House gathered in the Nazarian Auditorium to participate in Badarak. The choir, comprised of campers, counselors and alumni was led by Anoush Givelekian and accompanied by Edward Daghlian. Srpazan gave an inspiring sermon about love and caring and connecting with others. Srpazan spoke warmly of the beauty and natural surroundings and of all the friendships that grow at Camp Nubar. With a reference to his own life experience Srpazan encouraged the congregation to "make connections" with those you don't know as well as those you do. And, he continued by sharing with us that the giving and receiving of gifts is less about what you receive and much more the thought and care and love that goes into the giving.

His Eminence spent the rest of the day enjoying the Annual Camp Nubar Open House with camper, counselors, families and friends. More than one camper noted that it was great to have a priest who could lead us in our church service and play a fast game of tavloo. The Camp Nubar Community was so blessed to have the Archbishop with us and looks forward to future visits form His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian.

Friday, May 27, 2005 - New York, NY

New York, NY - AGBU Camp Nubar is pleased to announce a 2005 staff of seasoned camp professionals and exceptional guest instructors who will devote their time and skills to making this summer an exciting and memorable one for more than 300 campers.

Director Maggie Derderian Casaceli, a teacher in the New York City school system, returns for her eighth summer with Camp Nubar, leading an experienced team of staff members. Sharing the role of Assistant Director is newcomer Sophie Kerbekyan, the principal of Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School, who will also oversee the Armenian program, and Nayda Voskerejian, an active volunteer in the New York Armenian community, who is entering her second year with Camp Nubar.

Veteran Edward Ajamian, who has over thirty years of Camp Nubar experience, was recruited for the position of Staff Coordinator. As former camper, counselor and Boys Head Counselor, he possesses the required credentials and positive attitude to oversee and mentor the thirty-member Counselor-In-Training Program. Ajamian will also be responsible for upholding past and current camp life traditions by promoting "Camp Nubar Spirit" amongst the staff and campers.

Diverse activities, modern facilities and an emphasis on Armenian heritage make Camp Nubar an ideal "home away from home" for Armenian children worldwide. Set on scenic Lake Arax, Camp Nubar offers a wide range of recreational, social and cultural programs. Supervised by expert guest instructors, campers are in safe hands acquiring new skills and knowledge that not only contribute to their overall camp experience but are also transferable to real-life situations, such as problem solving, team building and leadership.

During the first session, Richard Afrikian, member of the U.S. Sailing Association, will provide sailing instruction for his second year in a row using two new Sunfish sailboats, while new addition, professional basketball player Rouben "Redd" Vesmadian will conduct a basketball workshop.

Camp Nubar also enlisted Nishan Derderian to conduct an outdoor survival course for his second year and Stephen Donelian, with over 30 years of experience with Camp Nubar as a former camper, counselor, Waterfront Director, Camp Director and current Camp Committee member, will teach a water skiing workshop.

In keeping with traditional Armenian values, Camp Nubar celebrates Liturgy every Sunday at St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in the mountains or outdoors in the meadow overlooking Lake Arax. This summer, clergy from the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) will visit Camp Nubar to perform the outdoor church services and spend quality time with campers and counselors.

With recently renovated cabins, tennis courts and outdoor basketball courts, Camp Nubar is committed to ongoing improvement for its growing number of adult staff, guest instructors and campers and has upcoming plans to enlarge its Director's Cabin and build a new Adult Staff Building, Girls Staff cabin and spacious girls cabin.

Sessions are quickly filling up so please download an application or call AGBU at 212-319-6383, Ext. 134.

Accredited by the American Camping Association, AGBU Camp Nubar was founded in 1963 and continues to be a summer haven for generations of Armenian youth from around the world. For more information on AGBU and its youth programs, please visit www.agbu.org.

Camp Nubar counselors with their kids during a fun-filled outing to Zoom Flume water park.

(L. to R.) Second generation campers, siblings Sevag, Ani and Haig, make father & Camp Nubar alumnus Paul Shahinian proud.

Campers and best friends Ani Merjian (left) and Lexi Zoraian arm in arm making memories to last a lifetime.

April 7, 2005 - New York New York

AGBU Camp Nubar Springs into Summer

Date:	4/7/2005
Contact:	AGBU Press Office
Phone:	212.319.6383
Fax:	212.319.6507
Email:	agbuwb@agbu.org

New York, NY - Campers and counselors seeking an action-packed summer will be delighted with the program AGBU Camp Nubar, directed by Maggie Derderian Casaceli, has in store for them this year.

With fully renovated cabins, tennis courts, and outdoor basketball courts, Camp Nubar, set on scenic Lake Arax, offers a wide range of recreational, social, and cultural activities. This includes horseback riding, photography, archery, water sports (Richard Afrikian's sailing program returns for its second year), and much, much more. As its upcoming season approaches, Camp Nubar encourages interested campers and counselors to consider picturesque Andes, NY as their 2005 summer destination whether for a trial, two, four, or six-week session.

The end of summer doesn't mean the end of the camp experience though! During the off-season, Camp Nubar organizes reunion events to reconnect campers and staff. Last year, hundreds of Camp Nubar friends and supporters attended the 3rd Annual Picnic at St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn, NJ, and the Christmas Party at Armenian Church of the Holy Martyrs in Bayside, NY, reliving summertime camaraderie and anxiously counting down the days for the quick return of the summer.

Summer 2005 is just around the corner and registrations forms are now available on Camp Nubar's web site, so downloading is easier than ever. With last year's enrollment reaching a record high and over 300 applications already in the mail, the sessions are expected to fill up quickly.

February 21, 2004 - Paramus, New Jersey

Click HERE for Armenian Reporter Article.

January 16, 2004 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

AGBU Camp Nubar has just completed Phase 1 of a large-scale capital improvements program. Two of the oldest girls cabins were razed and replaced with a new, state-of-the-art oversized cabin with expanded capacity. Additionally, the oldest boys cabin was set on a brand new concrete foundation and completely renovated. All of the other wood clad structures in Camp Nubar also underwent complete exterior renovations, including the addition of large, covered outdoor porches. Finally, Camp Nubar's old Art Barn was doubled in size and completely renovated, and now has skylights and complete wall of windows from floor to ceiling. Phase 2 of the 2004 capital improvement program, which includes the construction of three brand-new tennis courts complete with bleachers, will be completed prior to the start of the 2004 summer season.

January 1, 2004 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

The AGBU Camp Nubar committee has increased the starting salaries for staff members for the 2004 summer season. The starting salary for Junior Counselors has been increased to $600, and the starting salary for Senior Counselors has been increased to $1,000.

November 6, 2003 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

AGBU Camp Nubar Honors Nazar and Artemis Nazarian and Celebrates 40th Anniversary at The New York Botanical Garden

Fundraising Efforts Benefiting Camp Generate Over $200,000

Over 200 guests gathered at The New York Botanical Garden on Friday, October 24, 2003, to celebrate 40 years of AGBU Camp Nubar and its enriching experiences instilled in generations of Armenians. Mr. and Mrs. Nazar Nazarian were honored for their continuous benevolence and commitment to the Camp. The event's program also paid tribute to the Camp's many achievements, and brought Camp alumni and supporters together for a festive evening of dinner and dancing that raised over $200,000 ensuring the continuing success of the Camp.

Master of Ceremonies, Mr. John Cherkezian, a Camp alumnus from its earliest years, opened the evening with welcoming remarks: "We are here to celebrate the founding and life of Camp Nubar. Everyone here can appreciate where Camp stands today and become excited about its future. More importantly, this is a chance to thank all those who have contributed their time and energies and financial gifts over the years." Mr. Cherkezian also extended a particular welcome to the evening's guests of honor: "We give particular thanks and recognition to two persons who have been extraordinarily generous in their support of the Camp, Nazar and Artemis Nazarian, who also exemplify the leadership and generosity of the Nazarian family."

Mr. & Mrs. Nazarian have been instrumental in realizing the many upgrades undertaken by the Camp's Committee over the years, which has brought the summer institution up to modern standards, and attracted more and more young campers each season. They also paired with the late Alex Manoogian in the mid-1990s as the chief donors supporting the construction of the new all-purpose facility at the Camp. Inaugurated in 1997, the building is named the Nazarian Activities Center and houses the Alex Manoogian Gym in addition to a dining hall, full kitchen, stage, deck, Armenian classroom and Computer Center. Their combined support also produced the momentum and inspiration felt by the rest of the Armenian community to renovate and replace many more of the structures on the property.

Dr. Levon Nazarian, son of the honorees, presented a light and witty tribute to his parents that highlighted their care and commitment toward Armenian youth. He emphasized his parents' belief that Camp Nubar is a place for young Armenians to celebrate their heritage and make new friends. He noted, "The Camp has been successful beyond their expectations, and I hope that for many years to come, my parents will continue to enjoy the sights and sounds of Armenian children from all over the world enjoying Camp Nubar."

The Camp Nubar Committee, represented by Co-Chairs Mr. Mardi Merjian and Mr. Jeff Zoraian, recognized the Camp's many endeavors and thanked the evening's organizing committee for their efforts in realizing the memorable anniversary event. Mr. Merjian said, "On behalf of the entire Camp Nubar Committee I'd like to thank all the past Camp Committees for their decades of time. What they have done is often a thankless job, but they did it out of their love for the Camp. We're thankful that all of our supporters recognize what an extremely important program this is for Armenian children of the Diaspora."

Mr. Merjian also conveyed the sentiments of the Camp Committee toward Mr. and Mrs. Nazarian by saying, "We want to give the Godparents of Camp Nubar the honor and tribute that they truly deserve. They are great benefactors of many Armenian causes throughout the world. For AGBU Camp Nubar to have such a special place in their hearts is not only a gift to us, but it is also a testament to the deep love they have for Armenian youth."

Mr. and Mrs. Nazarian have not only supported the Camp as benefactors, but have also encouraged attendance, as well. Most recently, their grandchildren Matthew Nazarian, and William and Nicholas Albrecht, joined the hundreds of young Armenians who enjoyed the multitude of educational, social, recreational and cultural activities available to campers during these past two summers.

AGBU President, Mr. Berge Setrakian, was also among the distinguished guests in attendance, and congratulated the institution for its achievements: "Camp Nubar is, indeed, one of the most successful programs that AGBU has in the United States. On behalf of the Central Board and the entire AGBU family, I would like to note that the Camp will continue to have our full support for the years to come." He then stated that Camp Nubar played a major role in nurturing the Armenian spirit in his daughters, who spent many summers of their youth there.

Mr. Setrakian went on to say about Mr. and Mrs. Nazarian, "I feel privileged to be part of the team honoring a family, and especially two individuals, who first of all before being generous donors and benefactors, are great human beings. Camp Nubar has not been the only beneficiary of Nazar and Artemis' generosity, which extends from Armenian to the Middle East and beyond. We are blessed at AGBU; wherever we have a Chapter and a solid Armenian community, you will see something that reminds you of Nazar and Artemis, and we thank them for that."

Touched by the evening's palpable high spirits, Mr. Nazar Nazarian rose to the podium to present some of his personal recollections about Camp Nubar. He recounted his experience in 1962 with the late Zaven Halejian, whose wife, Floraine, was present at the event, when they acquired the initial property measuring over 100 acres for AGBU in Grahamsville, New York. He also expressed the joy that he and Mrs. Nazarian feel in how far the Camp has come since its first season. In fact, some years following the Camp's increasing popularity, another larger property with close to 400 acres in Andes, New York, was purchased.

The evening drew a large range of guests that included campers and counselors from 1963 - 2003. Among those was Ms. Lori Keurian, who attended the Camp from 1970-76. Thrilled with her positive experiences during those six summers at Camp, she served on the Camp Committee from 1985-90 to help keep Camp alive for future generations. She commented, "What Camp did for me was make me feel Armenian, and that's the feeling I hope my children will have when they attend when they are older. My best friends are from Camp, and it made me feel like part of an extended family that you can't get anywhere else."

Reflecting on the upbeat mood of the evening, another alumna, Mrs. Sarah Partin Setrakian, said, "The evening reminded me of the lasting impression that Camp leaves on people. Whether you attended last year or thirty five years ago, everyone was so excited to see Camp friends and supporters." Mrs. Partin Setrakian participated in Camp from 1983-92, and presently serves on the Camp Nubar Committee. She added, "My experiences as both a camper and counselor shaped my Armenian identity more than any other organization and gave me some of the best memories and times in my life. I'm happy to give back to something that gave me so much."

In addition to honoring the Godparents of AGBU Camp Nubar, the 40th Anniversary celebration also served as a vehicle for alumni and supporters to unite and enable the worthwhile institution to accept more and more eager campers in the coming years. Plans are underway to double the size of the Arts center, add a third tennis court, build a new girls' cabin and make other renovations to accommodate the growing spatial demands, for both campers and activities. Booklet donations and fundraising generated close to $130,000 for the renovation and upgrading of facilities on the campgrounds. With the overwhelming enthusiasm and positive support for the Camp generated at this event, Mr. & Mrs. Nazarian once again extended their incredible generosity and donated $90,000 to Camp Nubar, bringing the evening's fundraising total to $220,000.

Mr. Setrakian wrapped up the evening with a final comment: "What Camp Nubar does is establish a bond among people. It is a place where we have achieved the goal of creating friendship and solidarity among generations to come, and I hope it will continue."

Since 1963, AGBU Camp Nubar (www.campnubar.org) has attracted thousands of youngsters from Austria, Belgium, Canada, England, France, Holland, Italy, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the United States and Venezuela in a culturally and socially enriching atmosphere.

AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the largest international, non-profit Armenian organization in the world, and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Armenian heritage and culture through humanitarian, educational, cultural and social programs that serve some 400,000 Armenians annually.

Armenian Reporter Article - October 24, 2003

Philanthropist Nazar Nazarian Feted Here For His Support of AGBU Camp Nubar

By Edward K. Boghosian
TAR Int'l Senior Editor

BRONX, NY - Nazar Nazarian of Englewood Cliffs, NJ comes from a family in Beirut, Lebanon known for their generosity in financially supporting Armenian schools, charities and other projects. The family, all these years, has contributed millions to such projects. While their contributions have generally received acknowledgment in the Armenian press, their generosity has seldom received proper recognition, particularly in this country, where Mr. Nazarian has lived for over fifty years.

Last Friday evening, October 24, 2003, the family received a fitting recognition of their generosity when Mr. Nazar Nazarian was feted at an elaborate affair held at the prestigious New York Botanical Gardens Reception Hall. The affair, which was thrown by the AGBU Camp Nubar Committee, brought together close to 300 friends and family member of the honoree, in addition to a large number of former campers who had benefited from their stay at the Camp and owed a debt of gratitude to Mr. Nazarian's magnanimity to the facility located in the Catskill Mountain town of Andes, NY.

Friday's gala affair netted $220,000 to the camp, which will be used exclusively to renovate the camp, making it more friendly and acceptable to the community at large. Of this sum, Mr. Nazarian contributed $100,000, with the rest raised from the general public. Plans call for the construction of new cabins for use by the campers, who attend its summer sessions from various parts of the country and from Europe.

Mr. Nazarian had earlier funded the construction of a mess hall at the camp, giving upwards of $550,000 for its construction.

Over the years, Mr. & Mrs. Nazarian's contributions to Armenian projects have amounted to many millions. Apart from Diasporan projects, the Nazarians have contributed huge sums to projects in Armenia. One of these latest projects is the Radiology Center at the State Medical University. Only recently, Mr. Nazarian pledged to pay for the complete renovation of the pontifical residence in Etchmiadzin, the estimated cost of which approaches $4 million. The other projects he has supported are too numerous to list here.

At Friday night's affair, Mr. John Cherkezian served as the Master of Ceremonies, and the program was opened with an invocation delivered by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate, who had to leave the gala early since he had to attend another event.

A fitting tribute was given to Mr. & Mrs. Nazar and Artemis Nazarian by their only son, Dr. Levon Nazarian, Professor of Radiology at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA, who literally stole the show with his witty remarks and humorous description of his mother and father.

"Although we have a celebrity-conscious culture," remarked Dr. Nazarian, "the sad truth is that many people toil in relative obscurity. Only a few chosen few achieve lasting fame and....can be recognized simply by their first name. Such is the case with Elvis, Tiger...and Nazar. On the ladies' side we have Marilyn, Madonna... and Artemis," referring to his parents.

Dr. Nazarian asserted that "his parents saw Camp Nubar not merely as a place for Armenian children but had a vision that the Camp could provide an island of pilaf in a vast sea of French fries -- a vehicle for Armenian children from all over the world to meet, celebrate their heritage, make new friends, and maybe even find a future mate."

In closing, Dr. Nazarian, speaking on behalf of all past, present and future Camp Nubar families, thanked his parents for their support of the facility, which bears the name of the principal founder of this worldwide Armenian organization, Boghos Nubar Pasha.

Also addressing the gala was Mr. Berge Setrakian, AGBU President, who is related to the Nazarians through marriage. Mr. Setrakian upheld the Nazarians' contributions to the Armenian people with major donations funneled through the AGBU. He called Nazar and Artemis "Mr. & Mrs. AGBU" themselves.

Mr. Mardi Merjian and Mr. Jeff Zoraian, in their capacity as co-chairmen of the Camp Nubar Committee, presented a painting to the honoree couple.

Dancing and merrymaking followed the brief program, with the popular Johnny Roubian providing the music and the vocals for entertainment.

Armenian Reporter Article - September 23, 2003

AGBU Camp Nubar Holds 2003 Summer Session with Record-Breaking Numbers

For the past forty summers, AGBU Camp Nubar has welcomed Armenian youth in a safe, educational and fun environment. With a record-breaking 300 campers, including a full capacity of 150 in the third session alone, the 2003 season was one of the most successful in its history. Youngsters from the United States, Canada, France, Italy and Lebanon enjoyed the crisp, clean air of the Catskills in New York State, forged new bonds with their peers, and participated in activities that infused them with the Armenian spirit.

Spanning across 400 acres of land that includes its own spring-fed lake, affectionately named Lake Arax, the campgrounds allow for a multitude of activities to take place daily. In addition to an authentic stable, tennis and basketball courts, a large activity hall, separate boys and girls cabins and a fully modern infirmary, campers aged 8 - 15 were allowed to choose from a range of enjoyable activities, such as horseback riding, basketball, archery, tennis, arts & crafts, ceramics, talent shows, performing arts, swimming, boating, water skiing and volleyball. Fun programs added to the already full roster includes a state of the art Computer Center equipped with all the latest in digital technology, photography and music classes, professional tennis lessons and sailing.

The attentive and well-trained staff of more than sixty individuals certainly contributed to every day turning into a happy and memorable one for each and every camper. In fact, this year also held a record number of campers who extended their stay after attending at least a two-week session. The Camp Office Manager, Linda Kalayjian was thrilled to be part of the Camp Nubar family: "It was so nice to have a large group of Armenians all working towards creating a fun and exciting environment for our children. Because most of us were able to share our backgrounds and experiences as Armenians, there was a feeling of closeness and family within the camp."

Enhancing the plethora of daily activities, a few annual events instill a particularly meaningful bond with the Camp. Color War remains a constant backdrop for establishing solid camaraderie among young Armenians, as they hold competitions in sports activities, Armenian songs and dances, short skits, trivia questions, basketball tournaments and participate in the deciding Apache Relay. Another particularly meaningful event is the Candlelight Ceremony, held on the last Friday of the session, which celebrates the memories and friendships created throughout the summer, and seals the bond among all campers and counselors.

Over 400 visitors attended the Camp's Annual Open House on Sunday, July 27. While giving excited parents a chance to visit their children, the event also commemorated Camp Nubar's 40th Anniversary. A full day of activities, including Divine Liturgy and a performance by the Shushi Armenian Dance Ensemble, kept the crowd on the grounds till well into the evening. To upgrade the festivities, campers had worked very hard to prepare their own talent program, which was full of songs, skits and poetry recitations.

Perhaps most significantly, Camp Nubar's fundamental core is what brings back campers: the passing on of the Armenian heritage. All campers spend much time immersed in our rich culture, whether through language classes, traditional dance classes or at Mass on Sunday mornings. And, as always, singing at campfires, swimming in Lake Arax and bunking with best friends will be cherished by the Armenian youth of today and tomorrow.

Since 1963, Camp Nubar has attracted thousands upon thousands of youngsters from Austria, Belgium, Canada, England, France, Holland, Italy, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the United States and Venezuela who have run freely on its glistening green lawns. Campers and counselors alike return year after year to partake in the "Camp Nubar Spirit," which has remained in the hearts of all who have attended. "Friends, friends, friends we will always be. Whether in fair or in dark stormy weather, Camp Nubar will keep us together." For more information on Camp Nubar, please visit: www.campnubar.org or call the AGBU Central Office: 212-319-6383, ext. 134.

Keeping the joyful memories alive well into the fall season, Camp Nubar will hold a fundraising picnic on the grounds of St. Leon Armenian Church on Sunday, September 28 with an open invitation to the public. The Camp Nubar Committee will conclude the 40th Anniversary celebrations on Friday, October 24 with an evening of dinner and dancing at the New York Botanical Gardens.

AGBU (www.agbu.org) is the largest international, non-profit Armenian organization in the world, and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Armenian heritage and culture through humanitarian, educational, cultural and social programs that serve some 400,000 Armenians annually.

March 13, 2002 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

The AGBU Camp Nubar committee announced this week the return of Maggie Derderian Casaceli as camp director.

After a three year absence, Maggie returns to once again take the reins of Camp Nubar to the delight of campers, staff and parents. Maggie previously served as director in 1996, 1997 and 1998 and as an assistant director in 1995. During her hiatus, Maggie returned to school and earned her Masters Degree in education while teaching at the Holy Martyrs Armenian Day School in Bayside, New York.

"Having Maggie back is the best thing to happen to Camp Nubar in years", announced Mardi Merjian, Co-Chairman of the Camp Committee. "The level of experience Maggie brings to the job as well as her love for the campers, staff and the program are immeasurable." Mr. Merjian adds that Maggie has been hired in a full time, year round capacity and will be working in an administrative capacity during the off-season at the AGBU's New York City office. He believes that this hiring "demonstrates the AGBU's continued commitment to what we believe is an extremely important program."

With the 2002 season approaching, staffing, recruitment and other preparations are already underway. With annual increases in enrollment over the past three years, the Camp Committee was expecting another successful summer. With Maggie's addition, the expectations for enrollment have dramatically increased. Under Maggie's guidance Camp Nubar enjoyed some of its most successful seasons including 1998 when more than 360 campers were enrolled.

Maggie is determined to maintain those high standards again by creating a safe and enjoyable environment that will help create memorable summers for all children.

Camp Nubar is still looking for candidates to fill a number of senior staff positions and is encouraging applications from people with skills in teaching everything from computers to Armenian dancing. Camp is scheduled to open on July 6, 2002 and runs until August 17, 2002. Anyone interested in attending this summer either as a camper or counselor can find information on the Camp Nubar website at www.CampNubar.org or, questions may be directed to the AGBU at 212-319-6383. Maggie can be reached at Director@CampNubar.org

March 23, 2002 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

The AGBU Camp Nubar committee announced this week the return of Andrew Merjian as Assistant Director.

Andrew returns this year after having been a camper in the late 1970's and the head cook of Camp Nubar in 1981, 1983 abd 1984.

With Andrew's return is the introduction of "Shish Kebab Sundays". Every Sunday he will prepare a traditional Armenian Kebob dinner, complete with rice pilaf, vegetables and pita bread.

Anyone interested in attending this summer either as a camper or counselor can find information on the Camp Nubar website at www.CampNubar.org or, questions may be directed to the AGBU at 212-319-6383. Maggie can be reached at Director@CampNubar.org

March 1, 2002 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK

The AGBU Camp Nubar committee has elected Mardi Merjian and Jeff Zoraian as co-chairmen of the AGBU Camp Nubar Committee.