Reflections
Grampie’s Thing
My Grampie used to do this thing. Every time we’d leave his house, he would follow us outside. He’d watch as we’d load ourselves into the car along with whatever goodies Grammie was sending home […]
Articles by Arev Dinkjian
AYF Olympics
Together
Well, that’s it, I think to myself. It’s Sunday night of Labor Day weekend, and I’m stuffed into a too crowded hotel room. Surrounding me is the rest of the New Jersey Arsen—the ones with […]
AYF Olympics
Fashion Do’s and Don’ts: A Guide for Dressing at Senior Olympics
AYF-YOARF Senior Olympics is back! After an agonizing Labor Day Weekend last year, communities are itching to get back to a good old-fashioned Providence Olympics, and they want the full experience: the crowds, the comradery, […]
Community News
AYF Camp Haiastan coloring books now for sale
Calling all Camp Haiastan lovers! There is now a coloring book inspired by the first Armenian camp in America. Self-published by composer, musician and “camp dad” Ara Dinkjian, the nostalgic offering includes over 40 camp-themed […]
Youth
Spoiled and Uncompromising
During a recent economic cooperation forum, Turkish President Erdogan referred to the Armenian attitude as “spoiled and uncompromising.” Upon hearing this, I was shocked—appalled almost. Not because what he said was hurtful or offensive, but […]
Reflections
Pomegranates
I’ve always appreciated the ancient adage that has tied Armenians so closely to pomegranates. The fruit is in our art, our clothes, our dance, our culture. More and more I consider this idea—that somehow we […]
AYF Olympics
Music
My Father’s Music Room
At just five years old and alongside his father Onnik, Ara Dinkjian’s music career began. Eventually, he attended Hartt School of Music and graduated holding the only ever college degree in the oud. He has […]
Reflections
Privilege Talking
Every year as a kid, my elementary school would host the International Dinner. Kids and their families were invited to bring a dish unique to their culture and arrive dressed in traditional garb. I’d throw […]
Reflections
Confession: I don’t speak Armenian
And for as long as I can remember, it has been my greatest insecurity. On more than one occasion, I have been told it is an “unattractive quality” of mine, and that I’m “not Armenian” […]