Philadelphia – When the Armenian Youth Federation gathers in Philadelphia over the Labor Day Weekend, September 4-6, for the 77th Olympic Games, there will be more at stake besides medals and championships.

Special tribute will be paid to those women who held fort while their male counterparts were off fighting World War 2, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.

Armenian Youth Federation baseball circa 1940s

More than a dozen individuals from that era are expected to be on hand in what is being appropriately heralded as “Women of the War.” They will gather together at the alumni social Friday night and be formally introduced during opening ceremonies Sunday when they march alongside the Kings and Queens of years past.

A video is being prepared as well as a bountiful insertion in this year’s Olympic adbook, thanks to others like Debbie (Topalian) Tashjian, Tamar Kanarian and Aram Hovagimian, who’ve been working feverishly on the project. Eight of the senior women hail from Philadelphia.

“These are individuals who kept the organization functioning and mobile during a most perilous time in world history,” said Ken Topalian, a newly-anointed member of the AYF Olympics Governing Body. “To them goes the credit they richly deserve for what took place behind the scenes. Because of their vigilance and their dedication, the AYF kept its momentum and persevered. We owe them all a debt of gratitude.”

They are unsung heroines like Rosanne Chebookjian whose story mirrors others of its kind. She belonged to the South Boston Chapter during those fertile 40s and the love of her life happened to be a guy named Shant. Together, they were pioneers in the formation of Camp Hayastan and parented a most active AYF family.

Their son Richard wound up as the second leading scorer in AYF history — a chip off his dad’s athletic block — and, more recently, is coaching the Philly Sebouhs which has harbored three championships over the past four years and their first Olympic Cup.

“It’s been over 65 years for me and my memory may have faded a bit,” said Rosanne. “It was absolutely a devastating time for a young girl like myself. I wrote to many soldiers and remember a Siamanto Ball vividly. It was always a coed affair but because of the war many singles came.”

Rosanne recalled with deep sentiment those that were missing and POWs, including Kenny Kazanjian, Mourad Piligian and Phil Aslanian.

“Tears came to our eyes as each name was read,” she remembered. “South Boston later merged with Medford and Cambridge.”

And that’s when she met Shant.

Shant Chebookjian entered the service shortly after graduating from high school. Rosanne knew his sister Anahid (a great athlete) before she met him on the softball field. Shant served with the Marines and was recruited for Officers Training School. They wed after Shant got discharged and received a degree from Dartmouth at a time when education was at a premium.

The relationship grew serious as the war ended. Rosanne bided her time as a sports correspondent for The Hairenik Weekly, served five years on Central Executive, and served as treasurer for an Olympics in New York.

“We made $3,000 that year which I held against my chest as I took the midnight train from Grand Central Station to South Boston,” she traced back. “Only a few people stayed in hotels. Most of us were housed in homes.”

During the early 1940s when a number of male Providence AYFers left to serve their country, those like Anahid (Karentz) Varadian were determined to carry on their chapter’s activities. They served the executive, performed plays for the community, wrote letters, sent packages to servicemen stationed throughout the world, and kept the Olympics perpetuating. Anahid was a gold medal high jumper in her day. The girls held up a good share of the scoring during those explosive years.

“The AYF Olympics has become the major athletic and social event of the year,” said Anahid. “Memories of the past remain vivid despite the passing years. Many of our eligible members were either drafted or volunteered to serve the military.”

The 1942 Games featured the last full complement of male athletes competing in track, baseball, tennis and golf — and it was Providence which reigned supreme during this ninth edition. In the end, 43 points remained unchallenged by the remaining teams.

The following year, it was the Providence women who carried the torch at Dean Academy in Franklin. Not only did the Varantians prevail, but forged a third consecutive victory with their cadre of women and what few male members remained.

Both 1943 and 1944 were conducted in modest fashion, if only to continue the Olympic tradition, until the cessation of the war. Sensibly enough, contention for the Olympics trophy was discontinued for the duration. The curtailment of our nation’s transportation system forced a toned-down version of the Olympics.

Even still, Anahid Karentz was not to be denied in her quest to keep Providence in “high gear.”

“With all the high tech equipment being used today in the high jump, back then it was a bamboo pole we had to clear, using a “scissor back over” jump,” Anahid recalled. “Our boys started returning, thus helping our chapter capture the title in 1945-47 to officially retire our first Cup.”

Anahid wound up marrying another Olympic pedigree named Haig who was serving in Germany when they began corresponding. They enjoyed a wonderful marriage, raising a prominent AYF family. Haig has since died and is remembered as a dynamic coach, educator and administrator who has a science wing dedicated in his behalf at East Cranston High School where he taught many years.

No female was faster in the dashes than Helen (Sanasarian) Sookikian who spurred the Watertown Gaidzags during the WW2 years. She set records in the 50 and 100 and won those two events repeatedly, eventually finishing with 49 points.

“Our chapter suffered from the absence of older male athletes to the war effort,” said Sookikian. “So one day, a couple of us girls decided to keep the momentum going. And that’s just what we did for the 11th annual games.”

Sanasarian was only 17 when she captured her first triple gold, setting three records in her 1944 debut. The following year, she repeated as high scorer with 15 more points.

“We were not only training for points but records,” she said. “Lightning was beginning to strike where it was noticed. We owed it to the men serving our country to keep the AYF going and bring respect to our chapters. ”

Sanasarian ran again in 1947, finishing second, and capped her career in 1948 just before her marriage to Vahram “Vee” Sookikian. It seemed married women didn’t run in the Olympics back then.

In 1984, Helen Sookikian received the culmination of AYF glory by being crowned an Olympic Queen — much to her surprise.

“I met my husband in 1945 when he was a New York Hyortik,” Sookikian reminisced. “He had come to Watertown to say goodbye to relatives on account of being called to active duty with the Army Air Corps. My sister Pauline worked with a cousin of Vee’s and invited him to the next day’s Gaidzag meeting where we met and corresponded until his discharge.”

The post-war era was a great time for AYF-ARF relations with the return of servicemen and the GI Bill of Rights. Many used the opportunity for advanced education and ultimately successful careers, giving the Armenian Community a much-needed dose of fortitude.

As to the AYF, 77 years of respectability speaks for itself. Had it not been for those catalysts during World War 2, the organization might have suffered from inertia and the Philly games this year would have been a foregone conclusion.

Please contact ayfwow@gmail.comif you would like to submit pictures of AYF’ers during the war years to be showcased at this year’s AYF Olympics in Philadelphia (see www.ayfolympics.org for more information).

Historic Area Walking Tour (Friday, Sept. 3 @ 12:30PM): Step out to Philadelphia’s modern day Market Street and learn how it got its name from the colonial market stalls that bustled with life in the 1700s as you stroll towards Independence National Historical Park.  Hear stories of the people, places and things that made Colonial Philadelphia the seat of government for the young nation.  We will visit neighborhoods where the Founding Fathers’ lived and see how contemporary Philadelphians have made them their own.  See the same tiny courtyards and by-ways of colonial Philadelphians – only seen while on foot!

Wear comfortable shoes and sun screen. All-weather tour.

Pricing: Adults - $20 | Children (ages 3-15) – $10 

Philadelphia Then & Now Bus Tour (Sat. Sept. 4 @ 9:30AM)): The most comprehensive full-city tour, Philadelphia Then & Now, is a fully guided tour via deluxe transportation through four centuries of art, architecture and Philadelphia’s growth to the 2nd largest city on the east coast. 

See such sites as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, First and Second Bank of the US, Betsy Ross House, Franklin’s grave, Christ Church, Elfreth’s Alley and the neighborhood of Society Hill. Embracing the modern day, we will visit neighborhoods where the Founding Fathers’ lived and see how contemporary Philadelphians have made them their own.

Going beyond the colonial period, we will visit the bustling business district, Museum Mile of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the famous Rocky steps, Philadelphia’s vibrant theater district, Antique Row, the captivating French-inspired Rittenhouse Square and much more. Two off-coach photo opportunities will occur during the tour.

Pricing: Adults - $35 | Children (ages 3-15) – $17.50 

Taste of Philadelphia Tour (Saturday, Sept. 4 @ 12 Noon)

A “Taste” of Philadelphia will enchant and delight guests as you wind your way through Philadelphia’s funky neighborhoods sampling Philadlephia foods — cheese steaks, soft pretzels, ice cream and Amish baked goods!

We’ll begin at 9^th& Passyunk streets in South Philadelphia where the age-old rivals Pat’s and Geno’s serve up steak sandwiches on opposite corners for our own taste of classic Philadelphia cheese steaks and fixins’ (included in the price of the tour). Next, see Philadelphia’s famed 9th Street Italian Market (home of Rocky Balboa), the oldest and largest working outdoor market in the United States. Still predominantly Italian, it has the best of many cultures and cuisines to offer the shoppers. 

End the tour at the Reading Terminal Market, one of America’s largest and oldest farmers’ markets for an insider’s tour and delights from an Amish bakery and America’s oldest ice cream company.

No one goes away hungry. Price includes lunch.

Pricing: Adults - $60 | Children (ages 3-15) – $30

While you’re in town for AYF Senior Olympics, experience the unique history and beauty of Philadelphia from the top of authentic London double-decker buses. The Big Bus of Philadelphia touring company is now offering guests of the AYF Senior Olympics $5.00 off tickets. To take advantage of this great offer, go to www.bigbustours.com and use promotion code AYF001. See Philadelphia at your own pace with your 24-hour ticket with unlimited hop on/off at 21 stops, or just sit back, relax and soak in the history!

• 24 Hour Ticket
• Over 20 stops
• All Major Sites Covered
• Fully Trained Guides

If you’re flying in –SEPTA’s “Airport Line” train runs every half hour to Center City Philadelphia for $7 each way (you can pay after you board).  There are signs to walk to the boarding area once you get to Baggage Claim.  After the quick 25 minute trip into the city, get off at the Market East Station (1170 Market Street) stop, which is right across the street from the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott (1201 Market Street). Trains run from 5 AM to Midnight. For train schedule information,click here: http://www.facebook.com/l/8171buBdGPZ_uSsU7fkheMI-m2A;www.septa.org/schedules/rail/index.html

If you’re driving–we’ve arranged a great price of $26.40 (including tax) per day at the “Parkway” garage, located right by the hotel at 1201 Filbert Street (12th and Filbert Street).  With unlimited in and out, the Parkway garage is a tremendous savings over the hotel’s per diem parking charge of $40.

2010 AYF-YOARF Entertainment Line-up

This year’s 2010 AYF-YOARF Senior Olympic games, being held in Philadelphia September 2nd – 6th, feature a fabulous entertainment line-up with some of the world’s most popular musicians and singers. Please visit www.ayfolympics.org for more information about the weekend, and to secure your Hye Pass, which includes all of the functions listed below for only $75.

Friday Night AYF Dance – Sako from California

An incredibly popular icon in the Armenian music industry, Sako has captivated fans all around the world with his talent and creativity. He has received numerous awards and appeared in concerts across the United States, Canada, and Europe. He blends an innovative approach to composing new Armenian music with a unique recreation of some of the most classic Armenian songs. Don’t miss Sako Friday night at the AYF dance. This year represents Sako’s first performance at an AYF Senior Olympics, and promises to be a memorable night of partying and dancing!

Friday Night Alumni Dance – John Berberian Ensemble

Friday night’s alumni affair features John Berberian, who is considered to be one of the finest oud virtuosos in the world. He has been featured in numerous concerts and dances throughout the United States, Canada, and South America. John possesses a rare versatility of talent, academic knowledge and sensitivity to both his music and his audience. His inimitable style has brought him fame and popularity and he has been most influential in perpetuating Armenian and Middle Eastern music in America. John will be accompanied by Mike Gostanian on vocals. Mike is fluent in various Armenian dialects and performs songs in various languages with striking realism and character. Mike is recognized as one of the more versatile performers of his generation. The group will be rounded out with David Hoplamazian on violin, Antranig Kzirian on guitar, Chris Marashlian on bass, and Christopher Vosbikian on dumbeg.

Saturday Night Dance – Aravod featuring Khatchig Jingirian

Aravod’s unprecedented repertoire is truly diverse. It includes songs composed, sung and performed by our ancestors of hundreds of years ago, music preserved and revered by Armenian Diaspora communities, as well as contemporary music not typically associated with traditional Armenian “Kef” ensembles. They are known to keep the crowd dancing all night long. Aravod will feature Khatchig Jingirian, a truly unique entertainer in Armenian music. Khatchig is an artist who touches the hearts and excites the souls of audiences. He’s not just a singer and musician, but a performer reaching out to each and everyone who listens to his music, sharing with them his passion and love for what he does best – sing all styles of Armenian music with a innovative and personal touch!

Sunday Night Ball – The Fabulous Vosbikian Band

The Vosbikian band is one of the most well known and respected Armenian bands of the last 70 years. How appropriate that the band makes its home in the host city’s chapter of Philadelphia. Famous for its unique brand of “Kef” style Armenian music, the Vosbikian Band’s repertoire contains selections from a broad spectrum of Armenian folk and dance music, including those written by many legendary Armenian composers. Among many unique features of the band, including family hand-made steel drums, a pulsating up-beat tempo and a variety of great vocalists, the Vosbikian Band has become most notable for its legendary “Big Band” instrumental sound of Armenian music. The Vosbikian Band is dedicated to promoting and cultivating Armenian music in the Armenian Diaspora of the United States. Now celebrating its 69th year with fourth generation members joining in, the Vosbikians promise to provide an incredibly fun night to remember.

Sunday Night Hook-Up and Thursday Night AYF Party – Artsakh Band

Sunday night’s hookup features the Artsakh Band, an up and coming local band from Philadelphia. The band’s repertoire focuses on performing traditional and contemporary songs in the modern Armenian pop context. The group performed at last year’s Friday Night AYF Dance and is excited to make an appearance both at the Sunday Night Hookup and the Thursday night event at the Field House!

If you haven’t booked a room for the 2010 AYF Senior Olympics in Philadelphia just yet, you better do so now to guarantee the special room rate of $159 per night.  Hurry up! This offer is set to expire August 15^th.

The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown will play host to this year’s event.  Surrounded by rich revolutionary history and culture, the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown commands a towering presence within the heart of America’s original capital. In addition to participating in the great events throughout the weekend, you can take in the sights of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell located within eight blocks. There is also a collection of Philadelphia’s finest restaurants and shopping located on-site or within walking distance of the hotel.

With the August 15^th deadline rapidly approaching, make sure you take advantage of this great rate of $159/night by mentioning AYF when you make your reservation!  To book a room you can either call 800.266.9432 or visit www.ayfolympics.org.

Remember, the hotel is easily reached by any mode of transportation and is just one mile from the 30th Street train Station and nine miles from Philadelphia International Airport.

If you’re flying in – hop on one of our SEPTA trains that run every half hour for $7 each way (you can pay after you board).  The 25-minute train to Center City is the “R1” line and is in walking distance from Baggage Claim.  Your stop will be the Market East Station (1170 Market Street), which is right across the street from the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott (1201 Market Street). Trains run from 5 AM to Midnight.

If you’re driving – we’ve arranged a great price of $26.40 (including tax) per day at the “Parkway” garage, located at 1201 Filbert Street (12^th and Filbert Street).  With unlimited in and out, the Parkway garage is a tremendous savings over the hotel’s per diem parking charge of $40.

1. History
2. Phillies (#1…at least in the national league…baby!)
3. Brotherly Lovin’
4. Cheesesteaks

So why wouldn’t you want to be in the know about Philadelphia’s most delectable culinary treat?  During your stay here, be sure to make a special trip to investigate one of the all-time food rivalries:  Pat’s and Geno’s.

The best way to find out if you’re a Pat’s kind-of-guy or a Geno’s kind-of-guy is to grab a cheesesteak from both restaurants, go to a neutral territory, and do a taste test.

Upon arriving at the intersection of 9th and Passyunk,  you’ll probably first notice that each of these restaurants has an incredibly long line. In fact, Geno’s line may just spill right out into the street. Then, as you get closer, you’ll realize that there is a language that has been developed for the sole purpose of ordering cheesesteaks: wit, whiz, provo, etc… Not sure what it all means? Neither did we on our first trip, but that’s what will make your first time taking the Cheesesteak Challenge all the more worth it!

• Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street Philadelphia, PA 19106. The admission for this tour is free. Betsy Ross was the creator the first American flag.

• Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site 532 N. 7th Street Philadelphia, PA 19123. Admission is free.

• Elfreth’s Alley Located off of 2nd Street, between Arch and Race streets. It is the oldest continually inhabited street in the entire United States. These houses were built before the new nation was born. The earliest dated house was built in 1702.
• Liberty Bell Market Street, between 5th and 6th Streets.Admission is free. The bell was rung for public announcements. On July 8th 1776 was the first time the Declaration of Independence was read to the public

• Congress Hall 143 South Third Street Philadelphia PA 19106. From 1790 to 1800 the President, George Washington, and Vice President would meet here with the Congress and Senate to discuss politics. It wasn’t until later that City Hall was developed.

• Independence Hall 143 South Third Street Philadelphia, PA 19106. It was the place for meetings for the first and second continental congresses. It is also famous for the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

• National Constitution Center 143 South Third Street Philadelphia, PA 19106. There are many films, paintings sculptures and interactive activities to help visitors understand the Constitution.

• United States Mint 151 North Independence Mall East Philadelphia PA 19106. The first and largest US Mint. Tourist can view how the coins and money are made on a self-guided tour. Tourists can also receive the newest coins made.

• The ‘Real World’ House - Northeast Corner of Third and Arch. The 15th season of MTV’s The Real World was filmed in Philadelphia.  Now an art gallery.

Hate Walking Around? Ride the ducks!! Experience Philadelphia sightseeing fun from a duck’s eye view on Philadelphia’s original duck tour. Click here for pricing and schedule information.

First up, accommodations. This year’s AYF Senior Olympics will be taking place in the heart of downtown Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott hotel.

The hotel is offering the following special rates for AYF Olympics attendees:
$159 Single or Double Occupancy
$179 Triple or Quad Occupancy

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown
1201 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107 USA

To make your reservation, call 800-266-9432 or click here: https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=1467531

Need to know more about this historic city? Check out the official Visitor Site for Greater Philadelphia – VisitPhilly.com.