50th Anniversary Celebrations Sure to Make Open House at Camp Nubar Even More Memorable

Former Director & Nurse Rev. Fr. Vertanes & Yn. Anahid Kalayjian to Attend

On Sunday, July 28, 2013, AGBU Camp Nubar will hold its annual Open House, which will serve as a platform to celebrate its 50th anniversary on campgrounds. Open House has traditionally offered an opportunity for campers to showcase to their parents and friends the skills learned throughout the summer, such as horseback riding, water-skiing, performing arts, and Armenian dance and song.  Most importantly, however, it brings to the forefront the unique combination of lifetime friendships and an Armenian environment set against the breathtaking Catskill Mountains. For former campers and their children, Open House is an excuse for informal reunions among friends whose bonds were forged during Color Wars and endless summer days that are now relived through their camper children. This year, the tradition will be extended and enhanced through activities tailored to engage everyone visiting on this special occasion.

The highlight this year will be the rededication of Lake Arax in a blessing ceremony presided by His Eminence Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern), along with Rev. Fr. Vertanes and Yn. Anahid Kalayjian, who are fondly remembered by generations of campers for their active and prolonged involvement with the camp.

“We have to encourage every Armenian parent to visit with their children that wonderful place where a miracle is carried out every day, where the Armenian identity is developed amid games, activities that include ceramics and other crafts, horseback riding and water sports,” says Father Vertanes, who served as the camp’s director for many years. “Open House will be an opportunity for parents to see why they have to send their children there. I cannot think of any place in the United States with such an edifying environment as Camp Nubar.”

“Camp Nubar has left unforgettable, sweet memories in me,” says Yn. Anahid Kalayjian, beloved by many campers as their former nurse and spiritual guide every Sunday. “I’m happy I served for 25 years toward our teenagers’ physical, moral and cultural development.”

Camp Nubar creates the opportunity to educate the new generation, strengthening their young bodies, souls and minds,” continues Yn. Anahid. “There, our children get acquainted with our culture, our language, Church, songs, dances, traditions and customs. They learn what Vartavar is about, how Armenians traditionally celebrate weddings, Christmas and New Year. Every morning, we gathered around the flagpole and I would teach them a parable with a moral, so that they would reflect on it the whole day.”

This year, Open House has been structured as a family day, and will include bounce houses, face paint, games, relays, hikes, special snacks and other activities, which will be free of charge. There will be a fee for lunch.

 “We look forward to welcoming visitors to Open House each year, but on this occasion, we are even more excited to have alumni from so many generations and so far away join us,” says Camp Director Jennifer Omartian. “The campers eagerly await this important ceremony and the new achievements they will share with their parents and friends.  We hope many familiar and new faces will come see our beautiful grounds and witness the amazing bond of this community.”

Group transportation for Open House has been arranged for Sunday, July 28, departing from New York City (Midtown East Courtyard by Marriot – Third Avenue and 53rd Street) and New Jersey (Dwight-Englewood School – 315 E Palisade Avenue, Englewood, NJ). Vans will leave early in the morning and return in the evening the same day. Please visit http://campnubar.org/50 for further information on these and other activities planned for the 50th anniversary.

Festivities begin the night of Friday, July 26, 2013, with the 50th Anniversary Celebration at Guastavino’s in New York City. The evening will include gourmet fare, a premium open bar and a unique program with tribute videos, as well as a small auction and more. Guests have registered from across North America and Europe.

“Nothing matches Camp Nubar; even the roads leading to the mountains are so beautiful,” says Yn. Anahid. “Open House is a great opportunity to meet old and new campers, and enjoy the beauty.”